7 Best Mini Electric Bikes for Adults (16" wheels & Under) (2024)

By Jordan Grimes/Last updated - November 17, 2023/EBike Class, Electric Bikes, Reviews

7 Best Mini Electric Bikes for Adults (16" wheels & Under) (1)

Electric mini bikes are great for many riders because they are generally cheaper than other e-bikes and they are more convenient to store or transport due to being smaller and lighter.

Additionally, they can do most of the things a regular e-bike can do and they are simply cool things to ride. These bikes vary greatly in price and functionality, but most are designed for shorter journeys with an upright riding position. Some models have a folding mechanism, while others have wide tires and suspensions for off-roading.

Depending on your needs as a rider, we’re sure you will find the perfect mini electric bike for adults in this review.

Why choose a mini e-bike?

Electric mini bikes are preferable for some riders because they are super convenient to use. The size of these little electric bikes allows you to easily take them on public transit or into your car, office, or home for storage.

They are perfect for regular small journeys where you need to be able to get around quickly and without expending much energy.

  • For work – Large warehouses, large construction sites, ports, etc.
  • Maximum portability – For traveling by a car & boat

Best Electric Mini Bikes to Get

1. Rad Power Bikes – RadExpand 5 (20″ wheels)
2. Buzz Centris (20″ wheels)
3. Engwe EP-2 (20″ wheels)
4. Sailnovo (14″ wheels)
5. ANCHEER – EB5 Plus (14″ wheels)
6. Gyroor C3 (14″ wheels)
7. Aventon Sinch (20″ wheels)

1. Rad Power Bikes – RadExpand 5

Best electric folding bike under $1,700

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20″ wheels | 750W motor | Range: up to 50mi | 7-speed

  • Weight: 62.5lbs
  • 1-year warranty
  • Removable battery

The Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5 is a mid-range folding e-bike sold at a very competitive price from the direct-to-consumer brand.

This versatile bike comes with a powerful 750W motor and a 7-speed drivetrain for maximizing battery life. The 672Wh battery lasts up to 50 miles and hit cruising speeds of up to 28mph.

The RadExpand has the ability to fold up rapidly for storage or transport. Finally, hydraulic disc brakes, 4″ fat tires, and a fully equipped setup round out a great set of components.

Buy on Radpowerbikes.com

2. Buzz Centris

A powerful fat tire mini e-bike

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MSRP: $1,199

500W rear hub motor | Throttle & pedal assist | 48V battery, 40-mile range | Max speed: 20 mph

  • Suspension Fork
  • 20 x 4″ tires
  • 7-speed rear derailleur
  • Mechanical disc brakes
  • Pedal-assist & throttle

The Buzz Centris is a fast mini bike for adults with a mid-range price, lots of power, and an unusual design.

The Centris is powered by a 500W rear hub motor that offers a 20 mph top speed with PAS and throttle, whereas the 48V battery returns a 40-mile maximum range. But expect the actual range to be slightly lower if you use the throttle and higher PAS levels.

The Centris electric fat tire mini bike also has powerful mechanical disc brakes, a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain, a backlit LCD display, fork suspension, and a front rack to carry additional gear.

Buy from Buzz Bikes

3. Engwe EP-2 Pro

Fat tire folding electric bike

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MSRP: $1,049

750W motor | 48V 12.8Ah (614Wh) | Charge time: 5-7h

  • 60mm suspension fork
  • Folding & lightweight design
  • 20 x 4″
  • Weight capacity: 330lbs
  • Weight: 74lbs

Engwe’s EP-2 Pro folding electric bike offers unique convenience with perfect power and range functionality for even long-distance commutes.

This bike is quite heavy for a folding e-bike weighing 74lbs. However, it has a 750W geared hub motor with a 614Wh battery to provide 50+ miles of range.

The 8-speed drivetrain on the EP-2 Pro provides plenty of gearing for varied terrain and allows you to maximize your battery charge.

Additionally, this fast folding bike comes with fat 4″ tires, shock-absorbing front fork suspension, a sturdy aluminum frame, and a huge 330lb payload capacity. Finally, a rear rack and fenders mean you can take on any commute on or off-road.

Buy from Engwe-bikes.com

4. Sailnovo

Score: 4.4/5 out of 100 ratings

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MSRP: Check on Amazon

14″ wheels | 350W motor | 36V 10.4Ah | Charge time: 5-6h

  • IP54 waterproof
  • Top speed: 18.6mph
  • Range: 18-28mi
  • Package Dimensions 46.5 x 27.5 x 8.5 inches; 55.12 Pounds
  • 3 modes of assistance

Amazon’s Sailnovo is a cheap electric mini bike designed for comfort and convenience due to the inclusion of rear suspension.

The Sailnovo small electric bike for adults comes 90% assembled and has a punchy 350W motor. The battery is 10.4Ah and is built into the frame providing up to 28 miles of range and a sleek look.

This fast mini bike also has an IP54 waterproof rating, dual disc brakes, non-slip bump handlebars, anti-shock tires, front lamp, and tail lights making it comfortable and extra safe to use. Additionally, when not in use you can fold down the handlebars and saddle to make it smaller.

Finally, the Sailnovo e-bike is also compatible with a front basket to the front or kettle holder to carry light cargo.

Buy on Amazon.com

5. ANCHEER – EB5 Plus (14″)

Best electric folding bike under $1,700

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MSRP: Check on Amazon

14″ wheels | 250W motor | Range: up to 15,5mi | 1-speed

  • Weight: 37lbs
  • Charge time: 3-4 hours
  • 1-year warranty
  • Removable battery

The Swagtron EB5 Elite Plus is a versatile folding electric bike with removable battery functionality at a very affordable price.

This sleek small e-bike comes with a powerful 350W motor and a single-speed drivetrain for assistance and full electric throttle mode. The battery can last up to 15.5 miles at cruising speeds of up to 15mph. Additionally, riders can purchase an extra battery that can be swapped out for those longer adventures.

The EB5 Pro has the ability to fold up in a few seconds so you can store it or transport it in your car or on public transit.

Finally, dual caliper brakes, small 14″ wheels, and ergonomic grips, round out a great set of components.

Buy on Amazon

6. Gyroor C3

Smallest electric mini bicycle

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15 speeds | 14″ wheels | Max speed: 18.6mph | Range: Up to 20mi

  • 3-speed
  • 450W motor
  • Chainless – internal gearing
  • Disc brakes

The Gyroor folding mini e-bike has the most unique folding mechanism we’ve seen and has lots of other useful features despite its cheap price.

This bike has a large 450W hub motor that delivers max speeds of up to 19mph. Using a 10Ah battery, the Gyroor e-bike can ride for distances of 20 miles, perfect for urban commutes.

Other notable features which make this bike great to use are the 14″ wheels with shock-absorbing tires, disc brakes, and integrated lights on the front and back. Additionally, the bike has a helpful LED display that shows battery, speed, and trip distance.

Finally, this is a non-pedal, chainless e-bike that allows it to fold up into a very small package for transport and storage and making it the smallest model we’ve reviewed.

Buy on Amazon.com

7. Aventon – Sinch

A fat tire mini folding bike

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MSRP: $1,799

Range up to 71mi | 500W hub motor | Charge time: 4-5 hours | 20×4″

  • Aluminum frame
  • 672Wh battery
  • Mechanical disc brakes
  • Weight: 68lbs
  • Maximum weight: 300 lbs

The Aventon Sinch electric mini bike is a folding model that includes huge 4″ tires, fork suspension, and powerful electronics to deliver a versatile and highly capable ride.

Aventon’s folding mechanism allows the bike to fold up in seconds and stay in a small secure package. When set up, the frame is very sturdy and robust. Unfortunately, this design significantly increases total weight.

The 500W motor pairs with a fast charging 672Wh battery to provide ranges of between 30 and 71 miles. A 7-speed Shimano Acera drivetrain helps you maximize your battery’s capacity.

Other notable features of the Aventon Sinch include mechanical disc brakes, Aventon app connectivity, and compatibility with a rear rack and fenders.

Buy on Aventon.com

A Quick Buying Guide

Belt vs Chain vs Chainless Drivetrains

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Chainless small electric bikes are excellent because they require less maintenance, no grease, and make less noise. However, they won’t have as many gears if you need to pedal on varied terrains.

Chain drives allow you to add larger gear ranges for better performance, but they require regular maintenance, tuning, and are likely to break faster.

Belt-drive bikes are a new trend, especially among bikepacking communities. Belt-drive bikes are silent, clean and maintenance-free, which gives thema long lifespan.

Electric Mini Bike Motor Wattages

On average, small e-bike motors are equipped with 350W motors, although you’ll see 250W and 750W versions available as well. Because these bikes are lightweight and designed for lighter use, they don’t need as much power.

Hub motor vs mid-drive

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When comparing mini e-bikes to folding e-bikes, a hub drive motor is the most common type of eBike motor. Read more about the Pros and Cons – Hub drive vs mid-drive.

Average speed

On average, small e-bikes are limited to a max speed of 20mph, while there are fast mini e-bikes that can go up to 28mph, which makes them Class 3 eBikes.

About the Author

7 Best Mini Electric Bikes for Adults (16" wheels & Under) (11)

Jordan Grimes

Jordan Grimes is an avid cyclist who loves to travel and has found his bike to be perfect company on road trips in the USA, through national parks, and in countries such as Canada, Ireland, and Spain.

His passion for travel and work in the tourism and hospitality sector has allowed him to live in incredible places like Ireland, Canada, the USA, and the Cayman Islands. He has since relocated to southern Spain, where he works as a freelance writer, practicing Spanish and cycling in the famous Sierra Nevada mountains.He specializes in writing cycling blog articles, health and performance-related topics, and other informative pieces. You can contact him on Linkedin.

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7 Best Mini Electric Bikes for Adults (16" wheels & Under) (2024)

FAQs

Can a 70 year old ride an electric bike? ›

Overall, electric bikes can be a fun and safe option for seniors looking to stay active and independent. That said, it's important to choose the right bike for your needs and ability level.

Are folding electric bikes any good? ›

In general, electric folding bikes are a great urban companion, particularly in flatter areas, but that doesn't mean they're not good for quick leisure rides on country lanes too.

What I wish I knew before buying an ebike? ›

There is a small rule of thumb about watt-hours and e-bike distance. The idea is you take the watt-hours and divide by 15. The number you get is roughly the mileage you can expect from your battery. Like all rules, it is meant to be broken, but it gives you a good idea of what size you can get away with buying.

What are the disadvantages of eBikes? ›

Some of the disadvantages of e-bikes include:
  • E-bikes are overall pricey;
  • E-bike batteries have a rather short lifespan;
  • Battery charge time is long;
  • The charging infrastructure is not well-developed;
  • Riding range remains low;
  • E-bikes are considerably heavier;
  • Maintenance and repairs are costly;
Jul 10, 2023

What is the average lifespan of an ebike? ›

Usually, ebikes last for roughly ten years, but the year count can be low or high depending on several factors. Often you can consider replacing gears, tires, chains, brakes, etc., and may even replace the battery or motor for extended optimal performance.

What type of bike is best for seniors? ›

For many leisurely riders (of all ages, but especially those who are older), a comfort hybrid or cruiser bike is a great choice. Comfort hybrid and cruiser bikes have relaxed, upright riding positions that are more comfortable for people with back, neck, or joint issues.

Should seniors ride e-bikes? ›

The gentle, low-impact nature of electric bike riding makes it an ideal activity for seniors who may have joint pain or arthritis. Not only does EBiking provide physical advantages, but it also promotes mental well-being.

Are small electric bikes worth it? ›

They can save you money on petrol or public transport fares and eat up the miles of the commute, all without emitting a whiff of carbon (if you use renewable energy). They are also useful for older riders or people with a disability that stops them riding a push-bike.

What are those tiny bikes called? ›

Pocket bikes, also called "mini-motorcycles" and "pocket rockets," are small gas-powered bikes that resemble miniature replicas of full-sized motorcycles.

Which ebike is easiest to pedal? ›

The NBD's ultra-low center of gravity makes it much easier to stay in control. Best of all is getting on the bike.

What are the disadvantages of folding ebikes? ›

Folding eBikes are more expensive than non-folding models with the same specifications. For the same amount of money, you'll likely get lesser brakes or suspension on a folder, compared to a non-folding model. Depending on make/model, folding can be simple or complicated.

Which folding e-bike is best? ›

Gocycle G4

Gocycle is one of the biggest names in folding e-bikes, and the G4 is its finest machine to date. The star of the show is a brand new motor that delivers smooth power assistance when you need it most, and is powered by a large capacity battery that'll keep you riding for up to 40 miles on a single charge.

What are the disadvantages of a folding bike? ›

To reduce the weight of a folding bike, they are often designed with only one gear. This means folding bikes cannot adjust according to the cycle, making it more challenging to ride. To ride a folding bike, you may have to adjust your style and work harder than when riding a regular bike.

Do you still have to pedal with an electric bike? ›

In the U.S., e-bikes are classified as follows: Class 1: The motor only works when the rider is pedaling; max speed is 20 MPH. Class 2: Featuring a throttle, the rider doesn't need to pedal for this bike to go; max speed is 20 MPH.

What are the pros and cons of Ebikes? ›

Ebikes have more pros than cons. Ebikes are eco-friendly, senior citizen friendly, lightweight, higher speed than manual powered, not very expensive and etc. Cons are that you will need a power outlet to charge everytime, even if you are out far. I am riding ebikes from a long time.

Can Ebikes be used as regular bikes? ›

Yes. You can ride most e-bikes like a normal bike, but you should keep in mind that the battery will make your e-bike a lot heavier. If you have the option, and you'd like to try riding using only the power of your legs, consider removing the battery first.

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