Review

Best Ebikes of 2023: Buyer’s Guide to electric bicycles in Singapore

With so many electric bicycles (e-bikes) in the Singapore market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Without proper research or scouting out for proper and reliable reviews of the e-bikes, you may find yourself regretting your purchase or worse- get one that compromises your safety on the roads.

What you need to know before getting an e-bike

All e-bikes in Singapore have to be approved by LTA to ensure the safety of riders and the public. They should also comply with European Standard EN15194 and not exceed the weight of 20kg. 

 There are also safety rules that riders and e-bike owners should abide to: 

    • E-bikes can only be used on roads and shared paths such as Park Connectors (PCN). They are not allowed on footpaths. 
    • Riders must be at least 16 years old and above. 
    • Riders must pass a mandatory online theory test before they are able to ride their e-bikes in public. More information can be found here
    • All riders are to wear protective gear when riding such as helmets.
    • E-bikes should not exceed the speed limit of 25 km/h

Failing to follow these rules may result in penalties and fines.  More information can be found on the official LTA website.

How we picked the best e-bikes in Singapore

Like any list of the best e-bikes, ours incorporates some context as to why a certain bike was chosen, from specs and value to overall ride experience. Although there are a few e-bikes here that were chosen solely on the basis of merit and reputation, we have also relied extensively on e-bikes that we have tried ourselves. 

Nonetheless, throughout each case, we have assessed the e-bikes with the following factors:

    • Value: Are you getting the best bang for your buck? Whilst some e-bikes are more expensive than others, they may offer other key features which justifies its price point and makes it a better investment over a cheaper e-bike. 
    • Safety: All the bikes listed  below are certified orange and comply with the European Standard of EN15194, so they are often very safe to use (Unless one illegally modifies it, which we strongly discourage as it can damage the battery or in the worst case scenario, explode).  However, some e-bikes may be safer to ride than others due to other factors such as frame and wheel size. 
    • Uniqueness: What unique specs does the e-bike have to offer that makes it stand out from other e-bikes? We are looking for revolutionary and groundbreaking inventions that make the e-bike more valuable.
    • Battery Capacity: Range anxiety is prominent amongst e-bike riders. Higher battery capacities gives the rider the advantage to travel greater distances over a single charge and not have to worry about being stranded. 

It is also important to note that most, if not all of these bikes stop accelerating once it reaches its maximum speed of 25 km/h. E-bikes in Singapore are manufactured this way so that the speed is maintained below the speed limit of 25 km/h as required by the LTA.

Top 8 e-bikes in Singapore

Not sure where to start? We came up with a TOP 8 list of the best e-bikes in Singapore to help you choose the best e-bikes. 

We’d recommend you to test ride the e-bikes first before purchasing instead of being heavily reliant on this list, because how you feel and how we feel about the stability and the comfort of the bike might be different! It is also important to note that other factors such as your height, weight and cycling skills and experience affects how you overall feel about the e-bike. 

We hope this list helps you in narrowing down your selection and assist you in finding an e-bike that meets your needs and is within your budget*. 

*Note that prices stated are updated as of February 2023 listings

8. Eco Drive 2.0

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First on this list is the Eco Drive 2.0, a successor of the original Eco Drive which was one of the most popular and top-selling e-bike models. The upgraded model follows the latest legislation and has a larger battery size of 48V 10.5AH and new sports tyre rims. It also features an easy step-through frame, making it ideal for food delivery riders who have to get up and down from the e-bike multiple times a day. 

This ebike uses a 48V 240W DC brushless geared motor, and adopts a detachable battery design. Therefore, you can extend the distance by having spare batteries or park the bicycle and remove the battery to charge. It is able to assist the rider for up to 55 km per full charge.

𝗕𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆: 48V 10.5AH, 504 Wh 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲: $1599
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘀: Easy Step-through frame 20” Sports Rim
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀: Not foldable, Not value for money, Limited Colours, Traditional design

Although this is a pretty good e-bike we feel that there are better options in the Singapore market, such as the next e-bike on this list

7. KOL Max+

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Image by Ekolife

At the same price as our number 8th on this list, the KOL Max + has a larger battery size at 48V 14.4Ah. It runs on a premium LG battery and lasts up to 110 km range. The design is similar to the KUDU e-bike, which has a modern vintage look. 

However, one of the issues we  experienced when riding this is that it has a relatively slower acceleration pickup as compared to other bikes. This might be an issue when riding on the roads, especially as there are buses and other vehicles likely to be waiting behind you after the red light turns green.

𝗕𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆: 48V 14.4AH, 691.2 Wh 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲: $1599
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘀: More value than Eco Drive, Detachable Battery
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀: Not foldable, Limited Colours, Slow start up

6. Mobot S3

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The Mobot S3 is one of the most unique e-bikes with its 7 Speed Shimano Tourney drivetrain and 2 battery capacities to choose from (36V 10.4Ah or 26V 11.2Ah).  Despite being only 36V, the S3 makes up for it with its rear derailleur which allows you to save battery and paddle upslope even with the bike turned off. Furthermore, this bike is foldable which allows you to bring it into public transport. 

It also has the most futuristic and coolest frame designs out there with 4 colours to choose from. The battery is even hidden in the seat compartment, giving the e-bike a cleaner and unique look. 

This makes the Mobot S3 perfect for leisure riders as well, with options to either use the pedal assist, or travel via changing the gears on the rear.

𝗕𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆: 36V 10.4/11.2Ah, 437.4/403.2Wh 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲: $1399
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘀: 7 Speed Shimano Tourney Drivetrain, Futuristic Design, Foldable, Integrated seat post battery
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀: Only 25-40km range

5. Rogi Max+

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Image by Ekolife

One of the unique features about the Rogi Max + is that the battery is placed under the rear rack. It has a relatively big battery capacity of 36V 21Ah. It also has a mudguard which helps protect your e-bike from backsplash, which is important when riding wet and muddy conditions especially in tropical weather like Singapore. 

However, for its price point, you may be able to get an e-bike with a larger battery capacity. This bike is also not fully foldable and has a relatively uncomfortable seat.

𝗕𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆: 36V 21Ah, 756Wh 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲: $1799 - $1850
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘀: Nice colours, Big battery capacity
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀: Not foldable, A bit expensive

4. Ji Move MC

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One of the most popular e-bikes in the market, the Ji Move MC was once the largest battery capacity e-bikes in Singapore during the pandemic. At that point in time, its 36V 21AH battery capacity was considered revolutionary. The relatively low price relative to the battery size also makes it accessible to most consumers and one of the most value for money e-bikes considering its battery capacity of 36V 21Ah. 

In spite of the good traits the e-bike has to offer, the small 14” tyres which makes it easy to skid as it does not have a good grip with the ground. Typically, other e-bikes have 16” to 20” tyres.  So if you are not a confident rider, this e-bike might be dangerous for you.

𝗕𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆: 36V 21Ah, 756Wh 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲: $1299
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘀: Nice colours, Big battery capacity for its price, Foldable
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀: 14” tyres (dangerous to ride)

3. Mobot Leader

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The Leader was created with food delivery rider’s needs in mind. It features 20” tri-spoke fat tyres, low mid frame and a rear rack. It runs on 48V 240W brushless motor, providing higher torque. It also has front and rear disc brakes, and has good pickup acceleration. 

One of the unique features of the Leader e-bike is that it has sleek, leather hand grips- elevating the overall look of the e-bike and providing good grip for the rider. This bike is relatively affordable and provides good value for money considering the 672WH battery capacity.  

The leader is truly the cowboy’s ebike, giving you a stylish and comfortable ride.

𝗕𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆: 48V 14Ah, 672Wh 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲: $1599
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘀: Foldable, 20” Fat Tyres, Low Mid Frame, Sports Rim, Good Value for money, Stable to ride
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀: 14” tyres (dangerous to ride)

2. Orca

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Launched in 2022, the Orca e-bike (also known as the Beast) was finally able to outrank the Ji Move MC in terms of its battery capacity. It is one of the most popular e-bikes in the market, with many appearing in the market. 

It runs on a 48V 17.5Ah Samsung battery cell and can travel up to 90 km in a single charge. It is the first LTA type approved, EN15194 : 2017 certified  16” fat tyre long distance ebike. It’s off-road fat tyres means that you can cycle through any terrain and roads with ease and comfort. 

Despite its big battery capacity, the Orca e-bike is also foldable- making it easy to bring into public transportations when needed. Unlike other e-bikes that throttle when it reaches the maximum speed of 25 km/h, this e-bike is able to maintain its speed. 

If you are looking for an e-bike with great distance, foldable and super comfortable, then the Orca is the perfect companion.

𝗕𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆: 48V 17.5Ah, 840Wh 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲: $1799
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘀: Foldable, Fat Tyres, Value for money, Sports Rim
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀: Higher price point

1. Mobot Ultra

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A gamechanger for the e-bike industry in Singapore, the Ultra e-bike defeats all other e-bikes in terms of its battery capacity at 48V 25Ah which is nearly twice the size of the Ji Move MC and Leader e-bike. This battery tops all the other ebikes in Singapore at 1200 Watt Hours! The small frame also allows you to make manoeuvres and sharp turns comfortably. It has great acceleration pickup (even better than the Orca) and features a front carrier block mount and a water bottle holder mount so you can enjoy your ride without worrying about having to carry extra baggage!

Unlike the Leader and Orca, this e-bike however is not foldable. Its small frame and the ability to half fold the handlebar allows the e-bike to be small enough to fit into car boots, but its dimensions are still too big to be brought into public transports. However, the fact that the midframe is not foldable is what makes it so stable and comfortable to ride. 

If distance and big battery capacity is your main priority, definitely go for the Ultra.

𝗕𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆: 48V 25Ah, 1200Wh 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲: $1999
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘀: Insane battery capacity, Good build quality, Easy to maneuver, Compact enough for car storage
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀: Higher price point, Only handlebar folds down

The Ultra e-bike was also tested for 24H Live food delivery challenge, and it managed to last over 12 hours of food delivery riding in a single charge.

Summary spec sheet

𝗥𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗘-𝗕𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝘁 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲?
8th Eco Drive 2.0 $1599 48V 10.5Ah 504Wh 20" Sports Rim No
7th KOL Max+ $1599 48V 14.4Ah 691.2Wh Decent battery size for price No
6th Mobot S3 $1399 36V 10.4/11.2 Ah 437.4/403.2 Wh 7 Speed Shimano Tourney Drivetrain Yes
5th Rogi Max+ $1799-$1850 36V 21Ah 756Wh Battery below rack Partially (Stem)
4th Ji Move MC $1299 36V 21Ah 756Wh Cheapest Yes
3rd Mobot Leader $1599 48V 14Ah 672Wh 20” Fat Tyres Yes
2nd Orca $1799 48V 17.5Ah 840Wh 16” fat tyre long distance Yes
1st Mobot Ultra $1999 48V 25Ah 1200Wh Battery Capacity Partially (Stem)

Instalment plans

We know that the prices of these e-bikes can be quite staggering upfront, which is why we offer various types of instalment plans if you purchase your e-bike from Mobot:

𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻 𝗧𝘆𝗽𝗲𝘀 𝗔𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱?
Latitudepay 3, 6 or 12 months instalment 0% Interest (0.6% admin fee for 6 and 12 months plan) No
Fundbox Up to 36 months instalment With interest No
Paylater by Grab 3 months, monthly 0% interest No
Credit Card (Only selected banks -OCBC, DBS & POSB) 6 or 12 months, monthly 0% interest Yes

Note: only certain models mentioned in the list above are available at Mobot. 
Remember to always stay vigilant and comply with LTA rules on the road!