Last Updated on October 29, 2023 by Igor Karni
A subsidiary of Trek, one of the largest and most recognized e-bike brands in the US, Electra was founded in Vista, California, in 1993 by Jeano Erforth and Benni Baenziger.
The company maintains a focus on bicycle innovation, which was one of the main reasons for its founding. This readily shows in the kinds of e-bikes that established their reputation over the years.
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Unlike most of the companies that Trek essentially put under its wing and whose operations it moved to Wisconsin, Electra continues to operate in California to this day. A good reason for this stems from the company’s deep connection to the state. In fact, most of their models’ designs are heavily influenced by the “sun and surf” culture of The Golden State.
For that, you can expect most Electra e-bike models to have a laid-back, carefree style about them. As a whole, comfortable and smooth cruising pretty much readily characterizes the brand. However, this does not necessarily mean that it’s no less serious when designing its e-bike lines.
Electra e-Bikes Review: Model Lines
| E-Bike Line | Type |
| Townie Path Go! | Cruiser |
| Townie Go! | Cruiser, Commuter |
| Vale Go! | Cruiser, Hybrid |
| Cafe Moto Go! | Cruiser |
| Ghostrider Go! | City, Cruiser |
| Ace of Spades Go! | City, Cruiser |
| Navigator Go! | Road, Cruiser |
Electra E-Bikes Highlights
Electra models such as the Townie attained the reputation of being a consummate California beach cruiser. And that in itself should give you a good inkling about the powerful ties of the brand to the state and where most of its clout lies (at least for the types of riders that it appeals to).
Expect most of their models to prioritize overall riding comfort, specifically exhibited by how they’re designed and the materials they use on components that influence it. The most common and brand-defining is undoubtedly Electra models’ Flat-Foot geometry, which allows riders to adjust the position of their saddles for infinitely better comfort while mounting and riding. It’s no accident that most of its models have this feature.
Naturally, Electra’s catalog abounds in cruiser e-bikes with designs that have been praised for encouraging riding positions that actively improve comfort and make them very beginner-friendly. Most can reach their top speeds of 20mph fairly quickly thanks to premium motors.
Besides that, we shall also be highlighting a few other notable features in our exposition and review of each primary e-bike line in the catalog as follows. On the whole, Electra prefers to tag all its models as Go! e-bikes, unified by their dedication to comfort. Incidentally, the brand, true to its name, continues to release unisex models, for which they appeal a lot to female riders.
Electra Townie Go! Model Line
If you’re not already aware of it, the Townie was essentially what catapulted the Electra brand to fame. Indeed, if we’re going to consider the line that serves as the brand representative, then you don’t need to look further than the cruisers make up this group. At present, there are three distinct subcategories in the Townie Go! line: the 5i, 8D EQ, and 7D. All three have step-over and step-thru versions to suit most riders’ preferences.
Both the 5i and 8D EQ variations incorporate a mid-frame 250W Bosch Active Plus System motor, which readily explains the more expensive prices. They tend to save power, after all and are generally ideal for offroading. Overall, the two are made different by the fact that the former focuses on riding range while the latter showcases a bit more oomph in its power.
The 5i is the only one that has puncture-resistant tires, though, but is a few pounds heavier than the 8D EQ. They also differ a bit in the accessories they include, with the 5i having an ABUS frame lock, while it doesn’t have the 8D EQ’s ring lock mounts.
The most glaring differences, though, are that the 5i actually charges faster than it, thanks to its 4 AMP charger, which uses hydraulic brakes, and the fact that you can add a rear basket to the 5i anytime. Those are well worth the extra $300 you shell out for it. Range-wise, both are tied at an impressive total of 70 miles (110 km), and Bosch mid-motors are pretty much a gold standard of performance in e-bike circles.
Read also: How to select the best city e-bike (with examples)? – also in this article, and this article. And, How much does a good city e-bike cost?
The 7D is the only one that integrates Shimano rear hub motors, which aren’t exactly out of place in a made-for-comfort model. It’s markedly cheaper because of this, which is a pro in itself. After all, while the other two can already assure comfort, the 7D basically has the Electra seal as well in this regard. Also, it doubles as a cargo e-bike and looks more like a conventional bike than its counterparts.
Take a closer look at the Electra Townie Go! e-bike model line.
The Electra Townie Path Go! Model Line
The Townie Path Go!, with its current 2021 incarnation being the 10D EQ, could very well be considered as a more premium version of the Townie Go! models. Premium in the sense that it integrates techier features commands a higher maximum range that reaches up to 90 miles (145 km) and provides seamless assist and battery-saving thanks to the Bosch Performance Line 250W mid-motors.
The upright geometry Electra bikes are known for is punctuated by the stylish, modern look of the entire model. We also like the relatively noise-free motor used by this model, which was quite a surprise considering its power. You also get to enjoy a rear rack and Bosch’s own smartphone hub display panel, which displays range estimate, assist level, speed, and battery levels. Ultimately, it’s the fact that you can charge your smartphone with it that makes it stand out.
The Schwalbe tires really lend themselves the general comfort when riding this elegant creation and do great to maintain rider comfort even in long distances. The top-notch hydraulic brakes leave nothing left to be desired for their palpable stopping power.
Read also: How to select the best cruiser e-bike? And, How much does a good cruiser e-bike cost?
It’s a very versatile cruiser, in short. For these reasons, we’re more than willing to label this line as the best that Electra has to offer, by virtue of its already established reputation as a maker of premier cruisers.
Take a closer look at the Electra Townie Path Go! e-bike model line.
Electra Vale Go! Model Line
The Vale Go! 9D EQ S doesn’t really depart much from what the Townie Path 10D EQ has to offer. But, in general, the Vale line opts to go for a hybrid approach, to the point that it’s not entirely illogical to consider it as a hybrid, techy and sporty e-bike, while still slightly leaning toward the cruiser category.
You can still enjoy the trademark Electra comfort from it, but it’s more concerned with being suitable for most kinds of terrains as is fitting for a hybrid. Plenty of its specs mirror that of the Townie Path Go! Line, especially the battery, motor, hydraulic brakes, and Schwalbe puncture-resistant tires. It’s just as quiet, too.
Read also: Best city e-bikes for women, reviewed and compared. And, Best folding e-bikes for women, reviewed and compared.
It sacrifices the rear rack by making it simpler. However, it does include more techy features like, for example, the heart rate monitor that can be viewed on the Bosch Kiox display. The same display is actually removable and supports Bluetooth integration. And it’s a bit cheaper.
On the whole, the fact that it manages 105 miles (170 km) of range makes it the best Electra e-bike as far as that fundamental factor goes.
Take a closer look at the Electra Vale Go! e-bike model line.
Electra Cafe Moto Go Model Line!
The Cafe Moto Go! is a male-centric cruiser that has an overall retro, cafe racer style which belies the tech and power that it incorporates. We like the fact that this model practically guarantees the riding comfort you can expect from Electra, despite being made with speed in mind.
What readily proves this is the 28mph top speed it has, which immediately stands out from other models. Like the rest of the models that we’ve featured below, the Cafe Moto Go! opts for a distinct arching, thick frame as well as vintage headlights. It has a fast-charging battery as well with a slightly lower range of 50 miles (80 km). The bitter Hayes Prime Sport hydraulic brakes definitely suit the Bosch motor and the high-speed limit of this model.
Read also: How to select the best commuter e-bike (with examples)? – also in this article. And, how much does a commuter e-bike cost?
The Bosch Purion display is minimalistic, but at best, it sports the standard Electra comfort thanks to its upright handlebars. It’s a cruiser that does justice to the classic vehicle it pays homage to as evidenced by its faster speed, with nifty bonuses like a kickstand and painted fenders. For these alone, it’s the best option for anyone who wants a faster Electra model while being guaranteed the stellar comfort associated with the brand.
Take a closer look at the Electra Cafe Moto Go! e-bike model line.
Electra’s Artist Series
These are the three latest models that fall under Electra’s Artist Series, which have as much focus on aesthetics as speed and power. It won’t be a surprise if these thicker models with their eye-catching designs make you stand out before long.
Electra Ghostrider Go! Model Line
The Ghostrider shares some of the specs of the Cafe Moto, but it’s obviously less dynamic as its battery is slightly less powerful, and the fact that it uses the average Tektro hydraulic brakes found in most Electra models. Not that that’s a downside, of course.
The Ghostrider’s frames are also notably thicker overall and the fenders are longer for added protection. It uses the same Speedster tires as the Ghostrider and has just about the same maximum range of 50 miles (80 km). Taken as a whole, we consider it as a slightly lower-end variation of the Cafe Moto, and the fact that it’s inspired by the same motorcycle design only reinforces this.
Take a closer look at the Electra Ghostrider Go! e-bike model line.
Electra Ace of Spades Go! Model Line
Most of the bikes in the Artist Series can fit right in the hybrid because the Ace of Spades can obviously handle most kinds of dirt trails as well as the Navigator. It has the same specs as it and the Ghostrider, with only a slight difference in style.
The riding range total is at least 20 miles (32 km), but other riders have reported getting up to 100 miles (160 km) out of it. Not surprising since it uses a Bosch PowerTube 500 and the fact that range still highly depends on the terrain and modes you frequently use.
Take a closer look at the Electra Ace of Spades Go! e-bike model line.
Electra Navigator Go! Model Line
Off-trail riding takes center stage with the Navigator. Almost ironically, it still sports the same upright handlebars that its counterparts have. Still, it assures just about the same riding range, comfort, and assistance as the other models in this series. The only glaring difference is that it uses a Bosch PowerPack 400, which only means you get less range from it.
Considering that it has the same weight, price, and other specs as the Ace of Spades, this is a significant factor unless you only choose to favor the Navigator for its style.
Take a closer look at the Electra Navigator Go! e-bike model line.
What Riders Love About Electra
The brand easily attracts most riders who prioritize a more relaxed ride over competition or dynamic performance. Electra didn’t have to rely too much on techy features to attract the majority of its audience, too.
As said above, the brand will always be synonymous with comfortable cruisers thanks to its patent design. The term “comfortable cruisers” may seem redundant given that that type of e-bike readily connotes riding convenience. However, it just had to be emphasized since that’s Electra’s main strength and selling point. It’s almost always the first thing that riders notice the moment they start riding most of its models.
What Countries Does Electra Ship To?
As of this writing, Electra only ships to all the states in the USA, Hawaii, and Alaska included.
Read also: Check out the most popular e-bike brands.
Take a look at this quick video review of Electra Vale Go electric bike:
Igor is a sustainable mobility and green energy advocate. His mission for Easy E-biking is to help make electric cycling simple, practical, and fun. Follow him on Facebook and LinkedIn.
