6 Best 500-Watt Electric Bikes for Adults in 2024
June 6, 2024
Electric bicycles (ebikes) come in all shapes and sizes. Each one is powered by a motor—typically between 250-750 watts—that lets you ride faster and with less effort compared to a traditional pedal bike. Right in the middle of this range, you’ll find ebikes with 500-watt motors that are ideal for the average rider and offer a perfect blend of power while maintaining a lightweight build.
This sweet spot gives you enough power to charge up steep hills without feeling like you have too much juice. Plus, smaller motors typically weigh less, which means you get a lighter ebike overall. Compared to an ebike with a smaller 250-watt or 350-watt motor, an ebike with 500-watts of power will typically be able to go faster and offer more torque.
Keep in mind that terrain and rider weight can impact speed. Most riders will discover 500-watt electric bikes are designed for the average person who’s looking to get around on an ebike—whether the goal is to commute or cruise around the neighborhood. Since they’re ideal for most people, 500-watt ebikes are among the most popular options for people that search for the best electric bikes on the market.
In this post, we’ll highlight our top picks for the best 500-watt electric bikes including:
- 1. Best 500-Watt Electric Bike & Best 500-Watt Commuter Electric Bike
- 2. Best 500-Watt Folding Electric Bike
- 3. Best 500-Watt Cruiser Electric Bike
- 4. Best 500-Watt Mid-Drive Ebike & Best 500-Watt Cargo Electric Bike
- 5. Best 500-Watt Lightweight Electric Bike
- 6. Best 500-Watt Electric Mountain Bike
- 7. Best 500-Watt Electric Bike Accessories
1. Best 500-Watt Electric Bike & Best 500-Watt Commuter Electric Bike: Level
Highlighted Specs:
- ✓ Max speed: 20 mph
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 60 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 300 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: Throttle on demand
The Aventon Level is our choice for the best 500-watt electric bike overall and the best 500-watt commuter electric bike. Available in two frame styles, choose the step-thru design if you want a bike that’s easy to get on and off, or opt for the step-over model if you like having a top bar to store gear on your daily commute. With a sustained output of 500-watts and a peak of 750-watts, the powerful motor gets you where you want to go easier and faster than before.
The Level is a class 2 ebike with the potential of becoming a class 3 ebike through the Aventon app. The drivetrain includes an 8-speed Shimano derailleur so you can control speed as you ride up inclines. Hydraulic disc brakes improve stopping power and a front suspension fork with 65mm of travel helps absorb bumps in the road, whether you’re meeting up with friends or visiting a grandkid across town.
This bike is also packed with comfort and safety features that commuter cyclists will love. It features built-in fenders that keep you dry as you ride along. Integrated front and rear lights improve visibility and let you extend your riding hours, even when it gets dark. Use the included rear rack to strap on gear like a backpack, office bag, or crate to haul groceries.
At a price of $1,899 MSRP, the Aventon Level offers plenty of range, speed, and comfort for all your commuting needs.
If a commuter bike style is what you’re after, explore these other commuter ebike options.
2. Best 500-Watt Folding Electric Bike: Sinch
Highlighted Specs:
- ✓ Max speed: 20 mph
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 55 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 300 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: Throttle on demand
The Aventon Sinch is our top 500-watt pick for the best folding electric bike. It has a sustained output of 500-watts of motor power and a peak output of 750-watts. This class 2 ebike comes with a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour and an on-demand throttle.
Thanks to its 4-inch wide fat tires, the Sinch is designed for all types of terrain so you can go on off-road adventures or find comfort on rough roads. It features a step-through frame, making it easy to get on and off the bike without having to lift your leg. The high carrying capacity means you can use it as a cargo bike to haul groceries or gear to your next adventure.
This folding fat-tire electric bike 500-watt model is designed to be fun and portable. The foldable design makes it easy to tuck away in your home or office when you’re not using it. Plus, it’s easy to fit into your car or load on the bus to take your adventures even further.
With four levels of pedal assist, hill climbing is easier than ever and you can choose just how much power assistance you want. A built-in torque sensor automatically senses how much pressure you apply when pedaling and adjusts the power output for an intuitive riding experience.
Also one of the most affordable 500-watt ebikes on this list, the Sinch costs just $1,699 MSRP. At that price point, it’s a great deal for anyone looking for a 500-watt ebike.
3. Best 500-Watt Cruiser Electric Bike: Pace
Highlighted Specs:
- ✓ Max speed: 20 mph
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 60 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 300 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: Throttle on demand
The Aventon Pace is our pick for the best 500-watt cruiser electric bike. The bike features a sustained rear hub motor size of 500-watts, with the ability to go up to 750-watts of peak power. The bike battery offers 614-watt-hours of power for a long range of up to 60 miles. Reaching high speeds of up to 20 miles per hour, you can use it to cruise through traffic or sail down paved paths in the park.
Designed for comfortable cruising, this ebike features ergonomic grips, swept-back handlebars, and a cushioned seat. With an upright riding style, it provides a comfortable position for cyclists of all ages. A backlit LCD display improves functionality, letting you easily check battery life, speed, and other ride stats at a glance.
At $1,799 MSRP, the Aventon Pace lands in the middle of the other Aventon models on this list in terms of pricing. It offers four levels of pedal assist and comes only in a step-through frame style. As with all Aventon bike purchases, you get access to 1,800+ bike shops where you can find new gear and get repairs, without having to travel too far off your cruising path.
Want some other cruising options? Take a look at the best electric cruiser bikes available.
4. Best 500-Watt Mid-Drive Ebike & Best 500-Watt Cargo Electric Bike: Yuba Spicy Curry
Highlighted Specs:
- ✓ Max Speed: 20 mph
- ✓ Battery range: 15-70 miles (max range only with dual battery pack)
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 440 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: No
The Yuba Spicy Curry is a top choice for the best 500-watt mid-drive ebike. Featuring a longtail design, it’s also our pick for the best 500-watt cargo electric bike. It boasts a Bosch Cargo Line mid-drive motor that provides 500-watts of power. The bike itself is capable of carrying up to 440 pounds, meaning you can use it to haul everything from surfboards to live plants and multiple kids.
Hydraulic disc brakes and a 10-speed derailleur give you control even when you’re carrying a full load. The rear rack is large enough to carry up to three passengers so you can share the fun with the whole family.
With a price point between $4,999.99 and $5,599.99 MSRP, this bike costs two to three times as much as the most expensive Aventon model on this list. While it has a higher payload capacity, it offers the same bike motor size and less range unless you splurge even more and get a dual battery pack.
Interested in other options with mid-drive motors? Check out these available mid-drive ebikes.
5. Best 500-Watt Lightweight Electric Bike: GoCycle G4i
Highlighted Specs:
- ✓ Max Speed: 20 mph
- ✓ Battery range: 50 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 220 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two- to three-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: No
Our selection for the best 500-watt lightweight electric bike is the GoCycle G4i. Weighing just 37.7 pounds, it’s easy to carry up flights of stairs and takes little effort to load on a bike rack. It boasts a proprietary 500-watt motor and 36-volt battery with around 375-watt-hours of power. The charger refuels your battery power in just 3.5 hours so you can get back on the road.
Four pedal assist modes let you choose how much help you want while riding around town. A torque sensor adjusts power output based on how hard you press down on the pedals. It features auto-inspired daytime running lights that are always on to keep you visible in all lighting conditions. Mudguards come standard so you can comfortably ride and stay dry, even if the streets are wet.
With an eye-watering price tag of $4,999 MSRP, you could buy two or three Aventon ebikes for the same price. Plus this bike has a shorter range and can't carry as much weight as the Aventon models.
6. Best 500-Watt Electric Mountain Bike (eMTB): Shengmilo M90
Highlighted Specs:
- ✓ Max Speed: 40 km (25 mph)
- ✓ Battery range: 40-60 km (25-37 miles)
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 150 kg (330 lbs)
- ✓ Warranty: One-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: Yes
The Shengmilo 90 is the best 500-watt electric mountain bike on this list. It features a brushless Bafang motor and a 48-volt battery. The 29-inch mountain bike tires easily roll over classic obstacles like tree roots and rocks.
A 7-speed Shimano transmission gives you control over speed and gearing when you’re tackling steep inclines or maneuvering down single tracks. With a waterproof LCD display, you can see stats like battery life and speed. This hardtail offers a front suspension system to filter out vibrations and absorb impacts.
At $1,599 MSRP, this 500-watt ebike is more affordable than some competitors on this list and similar in price to Aventon models. However, it offers a shorter range, and you won’t get as good of a warranty.
Best 500-Watt Electric Bike Accessories
Once you’ve chosen a 500-watt electric bike, it’s time to gear it up with accessories that make riding more fun and versatile. From locks that keep your bike safe when you aren’t riding it to tools and hitches that take your adventures further, there are tons of options to choose from. Here are a few of our favorite accessories to pair with your 500-watt ebike.
Aventon Chain Lock
The Aventon Chain Lock keeps your 500-watt electric bike safe when you stop to take a lunch break or leave it outside your home. It features 8.3mm thick, four-side chain locks and hardened steel. Plus, a nylon sleeve protects your bike from scratches, and the two-key lock is easy to unlock and lock so you can carry on with your day.
Aventon Single Child Trailer
With your 500-watt electric bike, you have the power you need to bring the kiddos along for the adventure. Use the Aventon Single Child Trailer to keep your kid safe and comfortable as you ride to the park or head across town for a playdate. The chest strap seat belt keeps them safely secured while the cushioned seat improves comfort. Tinted windows let them enjoy the sights along the way, and a rear storage area has plenty of space for extras like toys and backpacks.
Aventon Multi Tool
The Aventon Multi Tool is a great item to have on hand. Featuring several different attachments, including screwdrivers and Allen wrenches, it’s a nice tool to adjust seatposts, handlebars, and other bike parts while you’re on the go.
Aventon Hitch Rack
The Aventon Hitch Rack is the perfect way to transport your new 500-watt electric bike. It fits up to two bikes weighing 155 pounds total (77 pounds each). Able to fit bikes with tires up to five inches wide, it’s great for carrying 500-watt ebikes that are cruisers, fat-tire bikes, or cargo bikes.
