In the past, electric bicycles were a big purchase, with prices for new bikes on par with used cars. But San Diego-based Ride1UP has changed that with a series of electric bicycles ranging from $1,095 to $2,295.

This is due in part to the increasing global demand for e-bikes, which has made electric bike motors and batteries available at more realistic prices, and in part to Ride1UP's lean production and delivery model.

Take Ride1UP's top-spec $2,295 Prodigy electric mountain/city bike for example, scheduled for release in 2022 and available for pre-order this summer. It uses a motor and battery system from leading German brand Brose, which also produces e-bike kits for major brands costing thousands of dollars or more.

Ride1UP also produces electric bikes for those who want to go further than just in the city. Most models are available with step-through frames for easy mounting and dismounting, or with crossbars.

Robust frames and high-quality components make them affordable e-bikes built to last

Most Ride1UP bikes feature a battery built into the frame. This keeps the lines clean and prevents dirt from accumulating. All-weather rideability is enhanced by fenders and lights, and many of the e-bikes in this series have a convenient rack on the back for carrying luggage.

Lower-priced e-bikes from other brands often have shorter ranges and limited assistance. Frames can also be unstable, with an uncomfortable ride and low rigidity.

Ride1UP wanted to change this situation and design a series of e-bikes with durability and performance that would make people want to keep using them. This includes high-quality alloy frames and, in many models, suspension forks. There are also components from well-known brands like Shimano and Tektro, high-quality tires, and disc brakes.

All models have powerful motors, with 750-watt 48-volt hub motors on most models; battery options rated as high as 17.5 Ah provide ample range and 35 to 70 miles between charges; and the Ride1UP e-bikes have sophisticated control software, often in color, and bar-mounted displays that allow the rider to select assist levels and view available charge and range.

Ride1UP e-bikes have the performance to be a viable alternative to cars for commuting and getting around town, and Ride1UP's goal is to encourage riders to switch to electric bikes for many of their trips, saving money, helping to reduce emissions, improving the communities and, in many cases, speed up door-to-door travel.

The Roadster V2 offers street style with a secret assist

The Ride1UP has a cool design like the Roadster V2, a single speed urban fixie style with belt drive. The Roadster V2 is surprisingly light at 33 pounds, so it can easily be carried up stairs or inside buildings.

With the Ride1UP Roadster V2 available for only $1,095 and a myriad of eye- and wallet-friendly options, it's no wonder the Ride1UP has caught our attention. Another popular model, the Core-5, is priced at $1195.

The new Prodigy, on the other hand, has a Brose motor that rivals the performance of major brand MTBs, and its 90Nm of torque is the most powerful for climbing and riding over serious climbs.

Ride1UP has also cut costs from its sales model: instead of selling through bike stores, which add considerably to the list price of an e-bike, it sells directly through its website.

Ride1UP pays attention to detail, designing its packaging to slip through shipping companies' oversize luggage restrictions. Therefore, Ride1UP offers free shipping within the 48 contiguous states from its Nevada warehouse. Shipping to Alaska and Hawaii will be $190, and to Canada and Mexico for $100.

Ride1UP offers a 30-day free trial period and a one-year warranty to make it easier to see and buy bikes in person. The company offers comprehensive U.S.-based customer support via phone, web chat, and email, and an online knowledge base where you can find answers to common questions.0% financing is also available.