E-Commuter

Bianchi e-Omnia T Type

$7,250

The e-Omnia is Bianchi’s new line of electric bikes, with the T Type designed for fitness, commuting or fun rides around the neighbourhood. There are gender-specific versions of the T Type aluminum frame: the Lady and the Gent. Both models come with integrated lights, fenders and a rear rack to carry your groceries or picnic. Pedal assistance comes via Bosch’s Performance CX Gen 4 motor that’s fuelled by a 625-Wh battery. The unit can give you as much as 85 Nm of torque to help you up a steep climb. The Canadian version of the T Type comes with Shimano’s ultra-reliable 12-speed XT group. (bianchicanada.com)

Magnum Cosmopolitan

$2,200

The Magnum Cosmopolitan might be one of the best deals for an ebike these days. The motor and battery life aren’t as heavy as those on an eMtb, but Magnum says that you’ll get a respectable 55 km of distance out of the 360-Wh battery. The stepthrough aluminium frame offers a very upright position, which will be more comfortable for casual riders. A Zoom suspension fork will take the sting out of small bumps, while the sixspeed drivetrain will keep you moving along whatever level of pedal-assist you choose. The rear rack is great for grocery runs in the neighbourhood. (magnumbikes.com)

2021 BUYER’S GUIDE

GEAR

E-COMMUTER

Elby S1 $3,599

An Elby ebike has a distinct look with its step-through frame, which makes getting on the bike easy, even in formal office attire. The nine-speed S1 model offers up a solid list of features for considerably less money than most other class-comparable bikes. It boasts a range of 125 km thanks to a 500-W rear hub motor powered by a 555-Wh battery. When you’re not using pedal assist, you’ll be powering the nine-speed SrAM X5 drivetrain with your own horsepower. The Elby comes in one-size-fits-most, with saddle height adjustable from 34" to 41". (elbymobility.com)—SK