The best e-bikes of 2019 were not one-size-fits-all commuters: the year’s notable models ranged from practical urban bikes to folding designs, premium machines and high-output off-roaders. For everyday commuting, the RadRunner, Luna Fixed, iMiro Sivrac, Juiced CrossCurrent S2 and Specialized Turbo Vado 2.0 are more relevant starting points than concept vehicles or extreme-power models. Their prices and specifications below are historical, not current shopping guidance.
What the 2019 roundup covered
New Atlas published “Commuting 2.0: The best ebikes of 2019” on December 9, 2019. It was a broad survey of bikes and concepts that impressed the publication that year, not a controlled test with a single ranked winner. Its selections span different budgets, power levels and uses, so the most useful comparison is by fit for a commute—not by treating every entry as a direct rival.
Some models in the roundup were intended for off-road use or unusually high output. The Škoda Klement, for example, was a concept without pedals, rather than an ordinary pedal-assist bicycle. Whether a particular machine qualifies as a road-legal e-bike depends on its specifications and the rules where it is ridden; high-output examples especially warrant a local classification check.
Which 2019 models make the most sense for commuting?
| Model | Commuting fit | 2019 price reported | Reported specifications or features |
|---|---|---|---|
| RadRunner | Utility-focused urban riding | $1,299 (New Atlas, 2019) | 750-W hub motor, 672-Wh battery, rear rack and modular add-ons (New Atlas, 2019) |
| Luna Fixed | Simple, single-speed commuting | $1,750 launch price (New Atlas, 2019) | 400-W mid-drive and carbon belt drive (New Atlas, 2019) |
| iMiro Sivrac | Folding and last-mile use | Starting at $1,299 (New Atlas, 2019) | Folding format, integrated lights, removable battery and a claimed rapid-folding mechanism (New Atlas, 2019) |
| Juiced CrossCurrent S2 | Commuting where claimed range and utility are priorities | $1,799 (New Atlas, 2019) | 52-V, 676-Wh battery; New Atlas reported a claimed 50–100-mile pedal-assist range, with a lower figure for throttle-heavy riding (New Atlas, 2019) |
| Specialized Turbo Vado 2.0 | Commuter-specific equipment and conventional pedal assistance | $2,850 (Specialized’s 2019 product page) | 460-Wh removable battery, 250-W nominal motor, hydraulic disc brakes, and fender and rack mounts (Specialized, 2019) |
These prices and specifications are period-specific. They do not establish current availability, resale value, remaining battery health, warranty coverage or the cost of replacement parts. The figures also come from different sources: the first four entries are New Atlas’s 2019 reporting, while the Vado specifications and historical price are listed on Specialized’s 2019 Turbo Vado 2.0 page.
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#1 Best Overall
- 1000 W Motor & Upgraded Display: The EB5 electric bike equipped with a 1000 W peak motor, boosted a top speed of 20 MPH. The display panel has adjustable backlight brightness from 1-5 levels. In addition, the upgraded LCD Display provides riding data support, such as ODO/MAX/AVG SPEED, PAS mode can be customized up to 3 modes
- Removable Large Battery: The EB5 e-bike is equipped with a 360Wh battery, which covers a range of up to 25-40 miles per charge for 5-6 hours so that it can meet travel or daily commute needs. Removable battery makes charging more convenient whether you are at home or in the office
- 4 Working Modes: PAS mode will assist you with a moderate amount of power as you pedal the bike, kick in 1-3 levels of pedal assist to suit your needs. In pure electric mode, you can twist the throttle in any increments of power you desire. Pedal mode allows the rider to pedal as an ordinary bike. Booster mode will help you push your EB5 at 4.5-7.5 km/h when uphill, which will save you a lot of efforts
- Riding Comfortably and Handily: The 26" puncture resistant tires are for greater durability. A high-strength front fork suspension, 7-speed gears, dual lights, LCD display, front and rear mechanical disc brakes can bring your riding more comforts, make your e-bike adapted to complex terrains and keep you safe
- Minimalist Appearance & Lightweight Frame: A highly efficient, city style affordable electric bicycle offering minimalist and sleek appearance and only weighs 49.6 lbs. The triangular high-carbon steel frame provides more stability
RadRunner: modular urban utility
New Atlas presented the RadRunner as a solid urban bike with a rear rack and optional modular add-ons. That combination points toward errands and carrying everyday items, not just a light, fast ride. Its reported 750-W hub motor and 672-Wh battery are 2019 figures; motor output alone does not determine whether a bike is legal for public-road use in a given jurisdiction.
Luna Fixed: belt drive and a single gear
The Luna Fixed paired a single-speed setup and carbon belt drive with a reported 400-W mid-drive. Its appeal is a relatively simple commuter arrangement, but the source does not establish details such as service-network coverage, replacement-part availability or a comparable weight. The reported $1,750 was its launch price in 2019.
Rank #2
- 1000W Motor & Upgraded Display: The EB5 electric bike equipped with a 1000 W peak motor, boosted a top speed of 20 MPH. The display panel has adjustable backlight brightness from 1-5 levels. In addition, the upgraded LCD Display provides riding data support, such as ODO/MAX/AVG SPEED, PAS mode can be customized up to 3 modes
- Removable Large Battery: The EB5 e-bike is equipped with a 360 Wh battery, which covers a range of up to 25-40 miles per charge for 5-6 hours so that it can meet travel or daily commute needs. Removable battery makes charging more convenient whether you are at home or in the office
- 4 Working Modes: PAS mode will assist you with a moderate amount of power as you pedal the bike, kick in 1-3 levels of pedal assist to suit your needs. In pure electric mode, you can twist the throttle in any increments of power you desire. Pedal mode allows the rider to pedal as an ordinary bike. Booster mode will help you push your EB5 at 4.5-7.5 km/h when uphill, which will save you a lot of efforts
- Riding Comfortably and Handily: The 26" puncture resistant tires are for greater durability. A high-strength front fork suspension, 7-speed gears, dual lights, LCD display, front and rear mechanical disc brakes can bring your riding more comforts, make your e-bike adapted to complex terrains and keep you safe
- Minimalist Appearance & Lightweight Frame: A highly efficient, city style affordable electric bicycle offering minimalist and sleek appearance and only weighs 49.6 lbs. The triangular high-carbon steel frame provides more stability
iMiro Sivrac: portability as the selling point
The Sivrac’s folding design, integrated lights and removable battery make it the roundup’s clearest fit for riders who need to store a bike in a small space or combine cycling with another leg of a journey. New Atlas reported a $1,299 starting price and described its folding mechanism as rapid; that is not a standardized folding-time measurement.
Juiced CrossCurrent S2: a range claim, not a guarantee
New Atlas reported a 52-V, 676-Wh battery and a claimed 50–100 miles of pedal-assist range, as well as a lower range figure for throttle-heavy riding. Treat that span as a reported claim, not an independently verified result or a promise for every trip. Range changes with rider and cargo weight, terrain, speed, assist setting and weather.
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- 【Excellent Motor Performance】This electric bike is equipped with a high-performance 749W motor(2000W peak) with 2 to 3 speed settings, capable of meeting your daily commuting and off-road riding needs—so you never have to worry about speed
- 【Upgraded Removable Battery】 Powered by a 48V 15Ah removable battery, the ebike can be fully charged in just 6-7 hours and can ride up to 60 miles on a full charge (PAS mode). Depending on weight, the electric dirt bike can ride up to 40 miles in throttle mode and 50-60 miles in PAS mode, making long rides less of a challenge with its impressive range. The removable battery is safe and anti-theft, so you can charge it at home or outdoors without worry
- 【Comfortable Riding Experience】 This fat tire electric bike is equipped with front and rear suspension system, which absorbs most of the bumps and vibrations during riding, providing a more comfortable riding experience and reducing body fatigue.20"x 4" puncture-proof snow tires for electric motorcycle provide a stronger grip, ensuring the vehicle's stability and easily handle any adventure
- 【Safety First】 The electric bike for adults high-brightness front light greatly improves driving visibility, allowing you to see the road clearly even at night. The front and rear mechanical disc brakes are designed to provide controlled braking under normal operating conditions. Riders must inspect and adjust the brakes before the first ride and before each subsequent ride
- 【Personalized Riding】 This ebikes for adults is equipped with professional 7-speed gears and 3 working modes, which can be changed according to different terrains, and can easily pass through city streets, rugged mountains and beaches. The LCD display allows you to easily keep track of your ride data, such as current speed, distance and battery level, so you can customize a ride based on this information
Specialized Turbo Vado 2.0: equipment for daily riding
Specialized’s archived page lists a removable 460-Wh battery, 250-W nominal motor, hydraulic disc brakes, and commuter-related equipment including fender and rack mounts. The manufacturer describes assistance this way: “The more power you put out, the more power the motor puts out.” That is a description of the assistance behavior, not an independent performance test. Its listed $2,850 price is historical.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to compare a 2019 commuter e-bike
Start with the trip and the bike’s legal category
Decide whether the route calls for an ordinary commuter, a cargo-capable urban bike, a folder for storage and transit connections, or a machine designed for off-road riding. Then check the exact model’s motor output, speed assistance and controls against local e-bike rules. A label such as “electric bike” in a 2019 roundup is not enough to establish road eligibility everywhere.
Rank #4
- 1000W PEAK BRUSHLESS MOTOR: Funhang electric bike is powered by a robust 500W (1000W peak) high-speed brushless motor. Its impressive power and performance allow you to conquer steep inclines and long-distance adventures with ease. Whether you're commuting to work, enjoying a workout or exploring new routes, this electric bike for adults offers you a smooth and enjoyable experience.
- 48V BUILT-IN REMOVABLE BATTERY: Funhang commuter electric bicycle adopts a 48V 374.4WH IPX5 waterproof lithium-ion battery, this allows you to confidently travel 40-50miles in PSA mode and 20-30 miles in throttle mode on a single charge, without worrying about running out of power. Riding range varies depending on the battery, riding style, rider weight and road conditions. The integrated removable battery with BMS system ensures safe and easy charging at home or in the office.
- UNMATCHED COMFORT & CONVENIENCE: Funhang city cruiser ebikes' step-thru frame designed for comfort, allow riders to easily get on and off the e bike. The adjustable handlebar stem and seat can be tailored to ideal position, ensuring a relaxing and ergonomic ride for riders of different heights. Full-coverage fenders protect you from mud and water. Solid rear rack adds versatility to carry groceries or other essentials, making it perfect for everyday commutes, grocery runs and leisurely rides.
- SAFE EBIKE CONFIGURATION: 26 inch adult electric bicycle utilizes 7-speed system, promising you precise gear shifting for a smooth and efficient ride. The front suspension fork helps smooth out the bumps on rough surfaces, while the dual disc brakes deliver reliable stopping power. The LCD screen keeps you updated on battery life, speed, distance, PAS level and more. Thoughtful e bike accessories like headlight, electric horn and reflectors make you safe and secure during nighttime rides.
- 5 VERSATILE WORKING MODES: Funhang ebikes for adults feature 5 working modes and 5 pedal assist levels to suit all your cycling needs. Pure Electric Mode, Assisted Bicycle Mode, Normal Bike Mode, Cruise Mode and Booster Mode. Kicking in 1-5 PAS levels or twisting the throttle will make your ride a breeze. Booster Mode helps you push your e-bike effortlessly. Combining 5 riding modes, it is fun to zip around neighborhoods, parks, towns, campuses and beaches.
Compare motor and battery details without overreading them
A hub motor and a mid-drive are different configurations, and a stated wattage may not map directly to a local legal category or to real-world speed. Battery capacity in watt-hours is useful for comparing stored energy, but it does not by itself predict the distance a rider will travel. Removable batteries, such as the ones specified for the Sivrac and Vado, can matter when charging access is limited; confirm the particular battery and charger are present and functional when assessing an older bike.
Look for the commuting equipment you actually need
A rack, lights, fenders and practical cargo options can save upgrades, but the roundup does not establish a consistent equipment list for every model. The RadRunner’s reported rear rack and modular accessories serve a different need from the Sivrac’s folding design. The Vado’s manufacturer page specifies rack and fender mounts, which are not the same as confirming that every desired accessory is included.
Best Value
- 500W High Torque Motor-Equipped with a 500W brushless motor (peak 1200W), Heybike Cityscape 2.0 boasts such powerful power that riders can effortlessly maneuver through traffic and tackle steep hills or challenging terrains.
- Unmatched Lasting Power-The UL-certified 468WH IPX6 waterproof lithium-ion battery not only possesses outstanding waterproof performance but is also exceptionally safe and reliable. With a single charge, it achieves a range of up to 50 miles, and the removable battery design ensures convenient charging whether you are at home or in the office.
- 3 WORKING MODES - Effortlessly switch between throttle and pedal assistance to match your diverse riding moods. In throttle mode, the range can reach 30-35 miles, while in assisted mode, it extends to 35-50 miles. Moreover, in pedal-assist mode, it cleverly strengthens the muscles around the knees, ultimately contributing to maintaining your physical health
- Premium Features-Cityscape 2.0, with its state-of-the-art 7-speed and effective suspension, elevates your riding comfort to new heights, providing unprecedented control over your electric bike. The outstanding dual-disc brakes and lighting system comprehensively safeguard your safety.
- 26" x 1.95“ puncture-resistant tire achieves a clever balance between performance and versatility. It not only effectively reduces the risk of being punctured by sharp objects but also enhances the friction between the tire and the ground through its raised tread design, promptly coming into play during braking.
Account for ownership and serviceability
These sources do not provide comparable weights, service networks or replacement-part availability for all the bikes. For a used 2019 model, inspect battery condition, charger, brakes, tires, drivetrain and any included accessories, and verify that compatible replacement parts and local service are available before buying. A historical sticker price cannot tell you the condition or value of a specific used bike.
How today’s context differs from 2019
Trek’s current Allant+ overview describes the Gen 1 as offering assistance up to 28 mph, batteries up to 625 Wh, and equipment including a rack, fenders and lights. That is current manufacturer context for a more fully equipped commuter-bike comparison; it is not evidence that the Allant+ appeared in New Atlas’s 2019 roundup. It also does not establish that any 2019 model is currently available or comparable in price.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
