So, you’re looking for an electric bike under £1000 but don’t want to sacrifice performance or reliability. With countless options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Not to worry—we’ve got you covered!

In this guide, we highlight the best electric bikes under £1000, focusing on affordability, battery life, ride quality, and durability.

After hours of research and testing, our Editor’s Pick, the HillMiles MileCity1, stood out for its long battery range, smooth ride, and sturdy build—making it ideal for city commutes and light trails.

If you need a powerful e-mountain bike, the DUOTTS C29 delivers impressive performance with a long-lasting battery and versatile riding modes. On a budget? The Finbike U1 is a compact, foldable option that’s easy to store and perfect for short commutes.

Not sure which one suits you best? Don’t worry—our guide includes something for everyone, whether you prioritise speed, portability, or comfort. We’ve even highlighted a model to avoid, so you can dodge a disappointing purchase.

Read on to discover the best electric bike under £1000 and find the perfect ride for your needs!

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Must-Have Features in the Best Electric Bikes Under £1000

When shopping for an electric bike under £1000, it’s important to balance affordability with performance, reliability, and long-term value. While budget-friendly models won’t have all the high-end features of premium e-bikes, there are certain expectations that should be met.

Essential Features to Expect

• Motor Power: A 250W motor is the legal limit for road use in the UK, and it should provide sufficient assistance for most commutes and light off-road use.
• Battery Life: Look for a minimum range of 40-60km per charge, with at least a 36V battery for consistent performance.
• Pedal Assist Modes: Most bikes in this range should offer at least three to five levels of pedal assist for flexibility in different terrains.
• Braking System: Disc brakes (mechanical or hydraulic) should be standard for safe and responsive stopping power.
• Frame Material: Aluminium or carbon steel for durability and lightweight handling.
• Wheel Size: 26 to 29 inches is the norm, providing good stability and ride comfort.
• Weight Limit: Expect a 120kg load capacity for adequate strength and durability.
• Display Panel: A basic LCD screen to show battery status, speed, and assist level should be included.

Design and Build Quality

A good electric bike under £1000 should not only perform well but also be built to last. Here’s what to look for in terms of design and durability:

• Frame Strength: Aluminium frames offer a good balance of strength and weight, while carbon steel provides extra durability but adds weight.
• Suspension: Front suspension forks help absorb shocks for a smoother ride, especially on uneven roads.
• Tyres: Look for puncture-resistant, all-terrain tyres to handle different surfaces without frequent flats.
• Weight: Most e-bikes in this category weigh between 20-28kg—anything heavier may feel cumbersome, while lighter models might compromise on durability.
• Water Resistance: A minimum IPX4 rating ensures protection against light rain and splashes.

Extra Features That Enhance Your Ride

Beyond the basics, some additional features can enhance your riding experience. While these may not always be standard, they’re worth considering:

• Removable Battery: Easier charging and security when parking in public areas.
• Throttle Mode: Some models include a throttle for full-electric riding without pedaling.
• Foldable Design: Compact storage for small apartments or car transport.
• Integrated Lights: Front and rear LED lights improve visibility and safety at night.
• Rear Rack or Mudguards: Useful for carrying cargo and keeping the bike clean in wet conditions.
• USB Charging Port: Allows you to charge devices on the go.

By prioritising these features, you can find the best electric bike under £1000 that meets your needs while ensuring a reliable and enjoyable riding experience.

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Editors Pick

HillMiles MileCity1 26" Electric Bike for Adults

The HillMiles MileCity1 is a well-built, budget-friendly electric bike designed for both city commuting and light off-road trails. With a powerful motor, durable frame, and essential comfort features, it offers a reliable and smooth riding experience for everyday cyclists.

Key Features

• Performance & Battery Life: A 36V 13Ah removable battery offers up to 100km per charge, with a 250W motor delivering 42Nm torque for smooth acceleration and hill climbing. Five riding modes provide flexibility.
• Comfort & Ride Quality: A front suspension fork absorbs shocks for smoother rides. 26-inch all-terrain tyres ensure stability, while an adjustable seat height suits riders between 155cm and 185cm.
• Build & Practical Features: A sturdy carbon steel frame supports 120kg. The LCD display tracks speed and battery life. A waterproof IP65 battery, rear rack, and LED headlight enhance usability.
• Assembly & Support: 85% pre-assembled for easy setup with responsive customer service.

We tested the HillMiles MileCity1, and it quickly became one of our top picks for an affordable electric bike. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 100km per charge, and the 250W motor delivers smooth power, making urban commutes and light trails effortless.

The front suspension and all-terrain tyres handled bumps well, ensuring a comfortable ride on various surfaces. While the 27kg bike weight may be slightly heavy for some riders, the sturdy carbon steel frame provides excellent stability and durability.

Assembly was straightforward (thanks to its 85% pre-assembled design), and the LCD display, rear rack, and waterproof battery add great practicality.

Overall, the MileCity1 is a fantastic value-for-money e-bike. It offers a powerful, smooth, and comfortable ride while staying within a budget-friendly price range. If you're looking for a reliable electric bike that delivers performance without breaking the bank, this is an excellent choice.

Runner Up

DUOTTS C29 Electric Bike, 29'' E-Mountain Bike with 48V

The DUOTTS C29 Electric Bike offers a premium riding experience with features designed for comfort, performance, and versatility. While it comes at a higher price, the quality justifies the cost for those looking for a reliable electric mountain bike.

Key Features

• Powerful 250W Motor: Provides a top speed of 15.5 mph, making it easy to tackle hills and uneven terrain.
• Long-Lasting Battery: A 48V 15Ah removable battery delivers up to 100 km with pedal assist or 60 km on full electric mode. Charging takes 6-8 hours.
• Smooth & Comfortable Ride: The 29” puncture-resistant tyres and all-aluminium front fork suspension absorb shocks effectively.
• Versatile 3 Riding Modes: Choose between pedal assist, full electric, or manual riding, with five levels of power assistance for better control.
• 21-Speed Transmission: Adapts easily to different riding conditions, from steep inclines to flat roads.

The DUOTTS C29 Electric Bike delivers an impressive mix of power, comfort, and premium features at a reasonable price. The 250W motor provides strong acceleration, making it easy to tackle hills and rough terrain.

We found the 48V 15Ah battery to be highly reliable, offering long-distance travel (up to 100km with pedal assist) and a detachable design for convenient charging.

Riding comfort is a highlight, thanks to the 29” puncture-resistant tyres, front fork suspension, and 21-speed transmission, ensuring smooth performance on various terrains. The LCD display is clear and easy to use, while the integrated front and rear lights add safety for night rides.

The braking system is solid, though we felt hydraulic brakes would offer even better stopping power. The paint durability could also be improved. However, for its price, the DUOTTS C29 is a fantastic e-bike with high-end features and reliable performance—a great investment for daily riders.

Budget Pick

Finbike U1 Electric Bike for Adult/Teens

The Finbike U1 is an excellent choice for those looking for a compact, affordable, and functional electric bike under £1000. With its foldable design, it fits easily into tight spaces, making it ideal for small apartments, car trunks, or office storage.

Key Features

• Compact & Portable: Foldable handlebars and pedals make it easy to carry and store.
• Up to 45KM Range: The 36V 7.8Ah battery provides decent mileage for daily commutes.
• 250W Motor with Rear Suspension: Offers smooth performance, even on inclines, with speed options of 10/15/25 km/h.
• Reliable Braking System: Dual mechanical disc brakes and an electronic brake enhance safety.
• Enhanced Visibility: A bright front light and rear flashing brake light ensure safe riding at night.

The Finbike U1 is a fantastic budget-friendly e-bike that delivers great value for money. Its compact, foldable design makes it perfect for small spaces, whether storing it at home or transporting it in a car. The ride quality is smooth, thanks to the rear suspension that absorbs road vibrations.

We found the pedal-assist mode particularly useful, providing a natural boost for urban commutes.

The battery is well-protected inside the frame (a great design choice for durability), and charging is simple. While the 45KM range is solid, performance can dip slightly on steeper hills when the battery runs low. However, for city commuting and short trips, it holds up well.

Overall, the Finbike U1 is a smart choice for anyone needing an affordable, space-saving e-bike. It’s not the most powerful option, but for convenience, comfort, and ease of use, it’s hard to beat at this price.

Most Powerful Pick

VARUN Electric Bikes for Adults, 27.5" Electric Mountain Bike with 48V

The VARUN Electric Mountain Bike is a high-performance e-bike designed for both daily commutes and off-road adventures. With a powerful motor, long battery life, and versatile riding modes, it offers a great balance of speed, comfort, and durability at an affordable price.

Key Features

• Powerful Motor & Long Range: The 250W high-speed motor delivers a top speed of 25 km/h (15.5 mph), while the 48V 13Ah removable battery provides an impressive range of up to 100 km (62.2 miles) per charge.
• Smooth Gear Shifting & Reliable Braking: A 21-speed gearbox ensures adaptability across different terrains, and front and rear disc brakes offer strong stopping power for added safety.
• Durable & Comfortable Ride: The lightweight aluminium alloy frame is strong yet easy to handle. A shock-absorbing front fork provides a smoother ride on rough terrain.
• Four Riding Modes: Choose from pedal assist, standard cycling, cruise mode, and boost mode, making it easier to ride in various conditions, including steep inclines.

The VARUN Electric Bike impressed us with its powerful motor, long-lasting battery, and smooth ride. Assembly was straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and included tools. Once on the road, the bike handled beautifully, whether on city streets or rugged trails.

The battery life exceeded expectations, holding its charge even on longer rides—perfect for commuting or weekend adventures.

The motor delivers strong performance, quickly reaching its top speed of 25 km/h (15.5 mph), though the power cut-off feels abrupt at times (a standard feature for safety). Braking is reliable, adding to the overall confidence when riding.

A couple of minor drawbacks—the seat could be more comfortable, and our unit came with an EU plug instead of a UK one (easily solved with an adapter).

Despite these small issues, the VARUN Electric Bike is one of the best choices under £1000, offering power, range, and exceptional value.

Most Robust Pick

HITWAY 26" 4.0 Fat Tire Electric Bike

The HITWAY BK9S stands out as one of the most durable electric bikes available under £1000. With its powerful 250W motor and 48V 16Ah battery, it offers a smooth and efficient ride, whether on city streets or off-road trails.

Key Features

• Long-Range Performance: The 48V 16Ah battery delivers 70-150 km per charge, making it ideal for extended rides. Charging takes just 6 hours.
• Built for Tough Terrain: The 26x4.0-inch fat tyres provide excellent grip and stability on all surfaces, from asphalt to rugged trails. They are also puncture-proof for added reliability.
• Smooth & Stable Ride: A lockable front suspension and centre shock absorber help absorb bumps, ensuring a comfortable experience, even on uneven ground.
• Versatile 7-Speed Gearing: The Shimano 7-speed gear system allows easy adjustments for inclines and different terrains.

The HITWAY BK9S is a standout choice for anyone looking for a sturdy, long-range electric bike. Its powerful 250W motor and 48V 16Ah battery offer an impressive range (70-150 km per charge), making it perfect for both commuting and off-road adventures.

The 26x4.0-inch puncture-proof tyres provide excellent grip, while the lockable front suspension and centre shock absorber ensure a smooth, stable ride.

The 7-speed Shimano gearing allows for easy terrain adjustments, and the front and rear disc brakes deliver reliable stopping power. The LCD display keeps essential stats visible in real-time.

It’s worth noting that the bike is best suited for riders 5’8” and taller, and some may find the mid-suspension a bit stiff. However, the build quality, comfort, and value for money make it one of our top picks. A rugged, reliable e-bike built to go the distance.

One To Avoid

OneSport OT16-2 Electric Bike, 20-inch Folding Bike

The OneSport OT16-2 Electric Bike promises performance, convenience, and portability, but after testing it, we found more drawbacks than advantages.

While the 250W motor provides smooth acceleration and the 20” tyres handle basic road conditions well, the overall experience is far from seamless.

One of the biggest issues is the pedal assist system, which is highly inconsistent. At times, it simply doesn’t engage properly, making the ride frustrating. The battery life, while advertised as impressive, doesn’t always meet expectations, and the long charging time makes it impractical for frequent use.

The folding design is a plus, but that doesn’t make up for the poor overall functionality. Another major drawback is the after-sales support—or rather, the lack of it. If something goes wrong (which is likely), getting help is an uphill battle.

In the end, the OneSport OT16-2 feels like a gamble rather than a reliable investment. With questionable durability, poor customer support, and unreliable performance, it’s a bike best avoided.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Electric Bikes Under £1000

Finding the best electric bike under £1000 requires more than just a quick ride around the block. We put each bike through a thorough series of tests to evaluate performance, comfort, durability, and usability. Here’s how we determined which models truly stand out.

Performance and Motor Efficiency

To assess speed and acceleration, we tested how smoothly each bike picked up speed with and without pedal assist. We also checked how well the hub motor handled hill climbs, ensuring riders could tackle inclines without excessive strain.

The responsiveness of the pedal assist system was another key factor—we looked for bikes that engaged smoothly rather than delivering jerky or delayed power.

For models with throttle functionality, we evaluated how effectively they operated in full-electric mode, checking for both consistency and power delivery.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery performance plays a huge role in determining an e-bike’s practicality. We fully charged each bike and rode across various terrains—including city streets, hills, and mixed pathways—to measure how far they could go on a single charge.

We also timed how long it took to recharge and compared it to manufacturer claims. Since battery security is essential for urban riders, we tested how easy it was to remove and reattach the battery, ensuring it was convenient yet secure against theft.

Ride Comfort and Handling

A comfortable ride makes all the difference, so we examined how well each bike absorbed shocks and handled different surfaces. We tested the suspension by riding over bumps, gravel, and uneven roads, noting how much impact reached the rider.

Seat comfort was another important factor—padding and adjustability needed to support longer rides. Handlebars and grips were evaluated for ergonomic positioning, ensuring a relaxed riding posture.

To gauge braking performance, we tested stopping distances in both dry and wet conditions, checking how confidently each bike came to a halt.

Build Quality and Durability

Durability is essential, especially at this price point. We closely inspected each bike’s frame to ensure it was strong enough to support different rider weights without flexing or feeling unstable.

Tyres were tested for grip and puncture resistance by riding on various surfaces, including pavement, gravel, and wet roads. Since electric bikes often encounter unpredictable weather, we rode in light rain and tested for water resistance, checking if electrical components and displays remained functional.

The overall construction, including welds, chains, and wiring, was also examined for any weak points.

Ease of Use and Practicality

An electric bike should be intuitive to use, so we assessed how quickly each model could be assembled straight out of the box. The clarity of the LCD display was another important factor, as riders need to easily monitor speed, battery life, and assist levels.

Weight and portability were tested by lifting and maneuvering each bike—especially important for those who need to store or transport their e-bike regularly. For foldable models, we checked how smoothly they collapsed and whether they locked securely into place.

Safety and Stability

Rider safety was a top priority, so we tested the effectiveness of built-in lights and reflectors in low-light conditions. We also evaluated the bike’s stability at higher speeds, ensuring there was no wobbling or loss of control.

Braking power was tested not just for responsiveness but also for reliability in sudden stop situations and downhill rides.

Value for Money

Finally, we compared each bike’s performance and features to its price, determining which models offered the best balance of quality and affordability. We factored in maintenance costs, battery lifespan, and the availability of replacement parts.

Customer support and warranty coverage were also considered—bikes with better after-sales service ranked higher in our evaluations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do Electric Bikes Last Long?

Electric bikes can last a long time with proper care. The lifespan of an e-bike depends on factors like battery quality, motor durability, and regular maintenance. Most batteries last between three to five years before needing replacement, while a well-maintained frame and motor can last well over a decade.

What to Avoid When Buying an Electric Bike?

When buying an electric bike, avoid models with poor battery life, weak rear hub motors, or unreliable brakes. Cheap components may lead to frequent repairs, while unclear warranty terms can cause issues later.

It's also best to avoid bikes without customer support or replacement parts, as servicing could become a challenge.

Do Ebikes Use a Lot of Electricity When Being Charged?

Electric bikes do not use a lot of electricity when being charged. On average, a full charge costs just a few pence and consumes around 0.3 to 0.5 kWh of electricity. Charging efficiency depends on battery size, but overall, e-bikes are an energy-efficient and cost-effective mode of transport.

Are Electric Bikes High Maintenance?

Electric bikes are not high maintenance but do require regular care. Routine tasks include checking tyre pressure, brake pads, and chain lubrication. Batteries should be charged properly to extend their lifespan.

While they need slightly more upkeep than traditional bikes, maintenance is manageable and ensures long-term reliability.

Do I Need a Licence for an Electric Bike?

You do not need a licence for an electric bike in the UK, as long as it meets EAPC (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles) regulations. The bike must have a motor power of no more than 250W, and pedal assist should cut out at 15.5 mph. Anything beyond this requires a license.

Are Electric Bikes Legal?

Electric bikes are legal in the UK if they meet EAPC regulations. Riders must be at least 14 years old, and the motor should only assist while pedalling, cutting out at 15.5 mph. Faster or throttle-controlled e-bikes may be classified as mopeds, requiring registration, insurance, and a license.

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Final Word

Hopefully, our best electric bikes under £1000 guide has helped you find the perfect ride. With so many great options, choosing can be tough, but we have a clear favorite.

The HillMiles MileCity1 earns our top spot for its excellent balance of performance, battery life, and comfort—ideal for city commutes and light trails.

For those needing more power, the DUOTTS C29 offers impressive range and versatility, while the Finbike U1 is a great foldable option for budget-conscious riders.

That said, we strongly recommend avoiding the OneSport OT16-2. Its inconsistent pedal assist, unreliable battery, and poor customer support make it a frustrating investment.

Are you ready to hit the road with your new e-bike, or still deciding? Let us know which model caught your eye—we’d love to hear from you!