Best value electric bikes

Top pick: Aipas M2 Max — full suspension, hydraulic brakes and an aluminum frame at a price that undercuts most full-suspension rivals, with a strong owner rating behind it. It's the best all-round value if you want comfort on rough pavement and light trails.

Who the others suit:

• Velotric T1 ST Plus — light, simple urban commuter; no suspension, so best on smooth streets.
• Aventon Aventure 3 — the one to trust for daily commuting and long rides, with a big service network and proven reliability.
• Aipas F3 Max Adventurer — fat tires and long range for mixed surfaces and heavier riders.
• Kingbull Ranger — torquey off-road cruiser for hills and dirt.
• Engwe L20 2.0 — the budget entry point for short errands and flat-town riding.
• Velotric Summit 1 / Himiway Cobra Pro — step up only if trail riding is the main job.