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The Best E-Bikes and Scooters to Give in 2026

If you're looking to splurge, an e-bike or scooter makes a show-stopping gift. Our CNET experts tested options for every type of rider, and these are our favorites.

Headshot of Joseph Kaminski
Headshot of Joseph Kaminski
Joseph Kaminski Senior Associate Technology Editor / Reviews
During my almost twenty years at CNET, I handled benchmark testing/methodologies for both Mac and PC systems and, sometime after, integrated testing for micro-mobility (e-bikes, electric scooters and EUCs), which is a passion of mine. Transitioning from a BMX background to this field was seamless. Despite testing numerous products, each new one brings the same excitement as my first.
Written by Joseph Kaminski
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Best e-bikes to give in 2026

If you’re looking for a classic bike feel with just a touch of assistance when needed, the $1,399 Velotric T1 ST Plus is a solid option. Weighing only 39 pounds, it gives you pedal assist up to 28 mph. You won’t find a throttle here, but you get an eight-speed derailleur that keeps it close to the feel of a regular bike, with a little extra boost when you want it. That means you’ll still be pedaling and putting in some effort. It’s equipped with a torque sensor and has a quiet motor that kicks in to smooth out hills, headwinds or longer stretches, making for a smoother and less taxing ride without compromising the traditional cycling experience.

The $1,800 Segway Xafari isn’t the lightest out there, but it makes up for the extra weight with features you don’t usually see all in one package. You’ve got Apple Find My support to help track it down if it ever goes missing, plus proximity unlock through the app, allowing you to simply walk up and ride without fumbling with keys. When it’s locked, the rear wheel stays secure, so no one’s riding off with it. On the road, you can choose between pedal assist and throttle, with a top assist speed of 28 mph, making it versatile enough for commuting or weekend rides. A clean, easy-to-read display keeps your stats front and center, and the front and rear suspension smooths rough streets. Design-wise, it boasts a unique look that turns heads while remaining practical.

Velotric’s lineup has a solid range of e-bikes, but the $1,899 Summit 1 stands out as one of my favorites. It’s built for both street riding and off-road trails, offering front suspension, hydraulic brakes and a combination of torque and cadence sensors for a smoother, more natural ride. You can reach speeds of up to 28 mph, whether you’re using the throttle or pedal assist. Like its sibling, the T1, it comes with Apple Find My, allowing you to keep track of it at all times.

When I first saw the Mod Easy, it immediately gave me a sense of nostalgia. There’s a timeless, classic style to it, especially with the option to add a sidecar. The battery is situated inside the top tube, designed to resemble an old-school gas tank, and a rear rack features a tote bag for carrying extra gear. The sidecar, fittingly called “the boat,” is a solid, molded piece with a seat cushion and seatbelt that can safely hold up to 150 pounds, making it perfect for a passenger or even a pet. The bike itself tops out at 28 mph with pedal assist, in addition to having a throttle. It ships with a Mod-branded helmet that features built-in signal lights, which you can control directly from the handlebars. Powering it is a 750-watt rear hub motor, and up front there’s a suspension fork paired with a springy seat to help smooth out the ride. There’s even a USB-A charging port on the bike for keeping your phone or other devices powered while you ride. And for anyone dealing with tight doorways or limited storage, the sidecar can be removed without any tools; it’s secured to the bike with three quick-release latches.

I wanted to confirm something, so I called customer service, and to my surprise, I actually got a real person on the phone. Everyone I spoke with was polite, patient and genuinely knowledgeable. I feel compelled to point this out because many brands today make it nearly impossible to reach a real person; you’re often left filling out online forms or waiting days for a reply to an email. The Mod Easy 3 stands out as a true head-turner -- a fun, eye-catching ride that lets you share the experience with someone you love.

If you’re the type who prefers to sit back and ride instead of pedaling, the $1,495 Emove RoadRunner V3 is worth a look. This hybrid seated scooter features dual 500-watt motors and can reach speeds of up to 34 mph. The padded seat is surprisingly comfortable, and with its low profile and folding handlebars, it’s easy to store or toss in a car for travel. It’s powered by a 48V battery that delivers 50 miles of range, and it includes rear signal lights and an integrated horn for safety. For riders in areas where local rules are a little unclear, there’s even an option to add pedals to help classify it properly. The RoadRunner rolls on 14-inch tires, equipped with both front and rear disc brakes and suspension, ensuring a smooth and stable ride. It has a straightforward display, a thumb throttle and allows you to toggle between single- and dual-motor modes. Weighing in at 55 pounds and supporting up to 330 pounds, it’s simply a fun, zippy ride.

This bike has a 1,000-watt motor and can accommodate riders weighing up to 400 pounds. I really respect products that don’t leave anyone out. With a weight limit like that, many people who’ve wanted to ride can finally give it a shot. The price is on the higher side, but you’re getting a powerful bike with full front and rear suspension. That kind of inclusivity hits home for me because, during the COVID pandemic, I gained a bit of weight, and it became clear how many electric bikes/scooters are designed for smaller riders, typically capped at 220 or 265 pounds, if you’re lucky. That’s fine if you’re not carrying extra gear or a backpack, but not realistic for everyone. The extra motor power also means you’re not coming to a crawl when tackling hills, and with its rugged design and fat tires, this bike can take on just about any terrain, dirt, pavement or even snow. It can reach speeds of up to 28 mph with pedal assist and also has a thumb throttle. It uses a mid-drive motor, which keeps the weight centered and balanced, too. Another benefit is that routine maintenance becomes easier and more affordable, as you don’t have to disconnect any motor cables when removing the wheel. With that kind of power, the bike’s on the heavier side -- just under 90 pounds -- but you’ve got to give a little to get a little.

If space is tight but your needs aren’t, the Fuell Folld 1 is worth a look. This 20-inch fat-tire folding e-bike is designed for all-terrain riding and boasts ample power. It has five levels of pedal assist, a Shimano Altus 8-speed drivetrain and a throttle for when you just want to cruise. The mag wheels mean you’ll never have to worry about truing spokes, and both front and rear suspension, along with a wide saddle, help keep the ride smooth. A rear rack makes running errands or hauling groceries a lot easier. The 48-volt battery charges to 80% in approximately four hours and fully in six hours, while the 750-watt motor delivers up to 85 Nm of torque and a range of between 30 and 70 miles, depending on your assist level.

For an e-bike you’ll be using around the city, there are a few safety “must-haves.” However, when shopping for folding bikes, some of those features often become optional -- unless you’re buying from Heybike. The Ranger S foldable bike not only has a strong headlight and a surprisingly effective built-in horn, but also includes integrated turn signals and a quick-release battery mechanism, allowing you to change the battery even when the bike is locked outside. The rear rack makes it great for hauling groceries or gear from the office, and the folding mechanism makes it easy to tuck the bike away when not in use. The Ranger S is a great bike for just about any environment, but for a city rider, it's frequently my first and last recommendation.

-- Russell Holly

Read our Heybike Ranger S review.

The M20, especially the green and brown version, looks almost exactly like a motorbike from World War II, with its two gas tanks swapped out for batteries. It's not exactly a bike for long-distance riders -- the seat isn't designed for that -- but it's a constant joy to ride on small trips as well as off-road. The suspension is good and the 750 watts can get you across just about any terrain. Plus, the double battery version easily does 75 miles on throttle alone. If the person you're giving it to loves to have fun, I'd recommend the M20.

-- James Bricknell

Read our Engwe M20 review.

Cruiser bikes are their own unique experience. You're not riding for the most intense workout or to get somewhere as fast as possible, and you're not flinging yourself down a mountain for thrills. Cruisers are for the love of roaming, and when you add an e-bike motor to an already great cruiser, you get the SixThreeZero Around the Block. A 500-watt motor with a rear-mounted 48-volt battery (an integrated battery model also exists) can reach 20 mph if you really need to go fast, but it's clear from the extra comfortable seat and large display that this is a ride for savoring the experience. And by coming it at just under $1,000, it's an experience you don't need to take out a loan to enjoy.

-- Russell Holly

Best scooters to give in 2026

The Segway Max G3 is lightweight, user-friendly and offers reliable performance. I'm a strong advocate for scooters and e-bikes that can at least keep up with the posted 25 mph city speed limit, and the G3 does that -- and then some -- with a top speed of 28 mph. There's even an option to add a second battery for more range. The scooter is lightweight, weighing 54 pounds, and has integrated signal lights in the handlebars for added safety. The companion app makes customization a breeze and Apple Find My helps protect your investment. You’ll also find a semi-circular loop on the headtub designed for locking it up.

This scooter is great for short- to mid-commutes. It comes from a reputable brand that’s been around for years and continues to grow its presence in the market.

For thrill-seekers, the Apollo Phantom 2.0 doesn’t disappoint. It comes in two flavors: a $2,199, 52-volt version that reaches 44 mph and on sale right now for $1,199, and the $3,499 (currently $2,799), 60-volt Stellar, which cranks it up to 52 mph with even quicker acceleration. Both pack front and rear signal lights, 11-inch tires and Apple Find My tracking. The ride is smooth, but lugging one upstairs at just over 100 pounds is no fun. On the upside, they’ve got solid range, support heavier riders and the lightning accents running through the stem and deck give them that premium Apollo vibe. Plus, you can pick between mechanical or hydraulic brakes depending on how you ride.

The $530 TurboAnt R9 is an all-terrain electric scooter that delivers far more than its price tag suggests. Thanks to its responsive suspension system and grippy tires, it’s built to handle a variety of environments, from uneven backroads to crowded city blocks. Acceleration feels smooth, braking is reliable and the build inspires confidence, whether riding daily or venturing off the beaten path. This rare scooter blends performance, durability and value in one package for riders looking for versatility and capability on a budget.

Read our TurboAnt R9 review

If you’ve been curious about scooters but worried your commute would be too bumpy or rough, the $3,299 AWD Bakcou Timberwolf might change your mind. Powered by dual 750-watt Bafang hub motors, it delivers serious power with the option to run the front, rear or both motors simultaneously. Its bicycle-sized front wheel and suspension will make you do a double-take -- half bike, half scooter.

While its wide handlebars ensure a steady ride, Aa 48V 21Ah lithium-ion battery provides up to 25 miles of range. This will always depend on speed, traveling terrain, along with rider weight. It has a top speed exceeding 20 mph. Weighing 90 pounds (79 pounds without the battery), it supports riders up to 320 pounds and is ready to take on city streets or rougher paths.

Other gift-worthy rideables

If you're looking for an easy-to-use and portable option, the $699 Meepo Rover Electric Skateboard is a great choice. Weighing just 26 pounds, this all-terrain longboard rides on 6.1-by-2-inch air-filled pneumatic tires and can hit speeds up to 28 mph with an estimated range of around 20 miles. The (37.6 by 9.8 inches) deck is constructed from a blend of bamboo and 10-ply maple, providing a sturdy feel that can support riders weighing up to 330 pounds. It’s powered by dual 1,800-watt motors capable of tackling 30% inclines, and it’s controlled by a handheld J6S remote with multiple ride modes. It’s easy to get the hang of -- my 11-year-old, who had never stepped on a board before, was cruising within minutes.

The $2,500 Segway Ninebot GoKart Pro 2 is the ultimate big-kid toy -- and honestly, it’s more than meets the eye. Sure, it’s a go-kart that hits just under 27 mph (which feels a lot faster when you’re sitting that low to the ground), but it’s also more versatile than you’d expect. The rear wheels detach, allowing you to convert it into a hoverboard, and it can also double as a PC controller with haptic feedback for racing games. The frame adjusts to fit taller riders or folds down for easier storage. It has a 15-mile range and supports riders up to 220 pounds -- though I’m over that and was still able to zip around just fine. The narrow backrest helps keep you securely in place while driving, and a seatbelt provides added security.

The Onewheel was my first single-wheel love -- and honestly, what’s not to like? The device is cool, the community is even cooler, and owning one just feels special. What won me over was how easy it is to learn; you can hop on and start riding pretty quickly. It offers a solid range and a good top speed, too (20 mph). The $2,000 GT requires a bit more practice than the previous model, the XR, mostly due to its more rounded tire, but that actually makes it better for riders who like to carve. It’s easy to carry, thanks to the built-in side Mag handle and deck hand slot. Weighing 35 pounds with a 275-pound weight limit, it’s perfect for quick runs or packing up for a weekend trip.

For those seeking thrills but want to lower their bills, there's the $750 Onewheel Pint

Check out my Onewheel XR video review

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