King County’s 2023-24 budget included a provision proposing an electric bike rebate program. If all goes right — including funding, staffing, and approval — the program would serve to entice commuters into two-wheeled, battery-powered transportation over single-occupant motor vehicles. Though the first e-bike debuted in the 1890s, the technology didn’t begin gaining traction until the 1990s. But it wasn’t until recently that these bicycles became part of mainstream life. This popularity and the proposed rebate program got us wondering about the latest in e-bike technology. Here are some notable products leading the way.
Packster 70
Surely there canʼt be an e-bike accommodating of commuters with kids and groceries in tow, right? Believe it or not, the Packster 70 by Riese & Muller has an extended frame to account for a massive cargo area. It can be equipped with add-ons in myriad child seat configurations with five-point harnesses for up to three kids. Starting at $9,279
RipCurrent S Step-Through
This bike by Juiced might look like it belongs on a Southern California boardwalk, but this all-terrain, fat-tire ride tops out at 28 mph and has a range of more than 70 miles. This great commute workhorse also has several cargo configurations, convenient when youʼre transporting anything from beach towels to work documents. $2,499
HovBeta 20-Inch Foldable Fat Tire
If space and portability are issues, consider a folding bike such as the HovBeta from Hovsco. This ride combines new Samsung/LG battery technology with a 5000mAh single-cell capacity in a smaller footprint. It has a full LED light strip on one side for nighttime riding and comes in dark purple or red. $1,949
Bullit CC X01 AXS RSV MX
Fans of rocky Pacific Northwest trails might consider this mountain bike by Santa Cruz. Built with climbing traction and handling front of mind, this bike is perfect for the toughest climbs and the most challenging descents. Bonus: It can be purchased locally at Kirkland Bicycle. $14,249
Avenue Electric Bike
Pedego Electric Bikes of Redmond exemplifies the convenience of a local dealer and service center — especially when you have its five-year warranty plan. One of the bikes available there, the Avenue Electric Bike, is highly customizable, with options for traditional or step-through frames, spoked or mag wheels, and color options ranging from subdued to vibrant. Starting at $1,995
The ElectraPly
Cyclists who thought bikes couldnʼt get any more environmentally friendly might be surprised to learn about this ride made from sustainable poplar plywood. Designed to be lightweight, cost effective, and strong, this bike by United Kingdom model builder and woodworker Evie Bee is fashioned after an old school Yamaha dirt bike. While it isnʼt yet available for sale, contributors to Beeʼs Kickstarter campaign can stake a claim in the artistʼs first run. TBD
