By Paul Norman

Published: Wednesday, 06 October 2021 at 12:00 am


Many of the first electric bikes to hit the market were hybrids. With flat handlebars and a comfortable, upright riding position they’re a good option for general recreational riding, beginners, shopping and trips around town.

Electric hybrid bikes also work well for commuters who aren’t pressed for storage space and want a little assistance when cycling to work. If space is tight, take a look at our guide to the best electric folding bikes.

Many first-generation hybrid electric bikes were fairly heavy, with hefty frames and wheels coupled to chunky motors and batteries, with limited range. That’s changing now, with brands such as Specialized slimming down their hybrid ebikes: its latest Turbo Vado SL model gives you 130km range in a 15kg package.

Stats like those make a hybrid ebike a good option for the commute or if you want to simply enjoy the benefits of an electric bike without charging up too often between trips.

For more information on what to consider when buying an electric hybrid bike, we’ve got a full buyer’s guide at the bottom of this article.

You can also read our guide to electric bike types to help you choose the right ebike for you.

The best electric hybrid bikes reviewed by BikeRadar

We’ve been testing hybrid ebikes here at BikeRadar since they first emerged on the scene, and have a full archive of our electric bike reviews.

These are our current top-rated electric hybrid bikes.

  • Specialized Turbo Vado SL: £2,600 / €2,999 / $3,500
  • Carrera Crossfuse: £1,899
  • Cannondale Quick 4 Disc with Cytronex C1 motor kit: £1,646
  • Canyon Precede:ON CF 9: £4,999 / €4,999
  • Gtech eBike Sports: £995
  • Ribble Hybrid AL E Fully Loaded: £2,099 / €2,326 / £2,270

Specialized Turbo Vado SL 4.0

4.5 out of 5 star rating
"Best
Specialized’s crimson red/black paint is a treat, while the reflective frame graphics are another nice touch.
Oli Woodman / Immediate Media
  • £2,600 / €2,999 / $3,500 as tested
  • Well-tuned power delivery
  • Low weight
  • Lights included

Weighing under 15kg and with a 130km range, the Turbo Vado SL looks to take ebike use for recreation and city riding mainstream.

Its motor weighs under 2kg and the concealed battery makes for clean looks, although the 35Nm torque output is lower than most ebike motors.

Support feels very natural, without any bursts of acceleration but still helping out well on inclines, although it feels a bit underpowered on the steepest climbs, even in its top Turbo mode.

All models come with lights, and higher specs add a rack and mudguards.