E-bikes have no doubt carved out a spot in the hunting industry. They are quieter and more affordable than something like an SxS or ATV. And let’s not forget that e-bikes use zero fuel.
Whether it’s shortening travel time to a glassing spot or aiding with hauling meat out of the backcountry the crew here at GearJunkie knows the makings of what goes into solid hunting transportation. A good e-bike needs to be reliable, rugged, and practical.
If you still want to learn more about picking the right e-bike for your hunting adventures, along with some hot tips on using e-bikes in the field, be sure to check out our Buyer’s Guide, FAQ, and Comparison Chart. Otherwise, scroll through to see our recommendations, or feel free to jump to whatever category fits you best.
The Best E-Bikes for Hunting in 2023
Best Budget
-
Weight
73.4 lbs. -
Motor
750W brushless geared hub motor -
Distance
45+ mi. on full charge (subject to change depending on settings) -
Gearing
5:1 planetary gear reduction -
Load capacity
275 lbs.
-
Affordable -
Front suspension -
Semi-integrated battery
-
Heavy -
Max distance on the battery isn’t the best
Most Lightweight
-
Weight
49 lbs. -
Motor
Bafang M600, 500W -
Distance
Up to 60 mi. -
Gearing
SRAM SX derailleur 12sp, 50 tooth -
Load capacity
Not specified
-
Lightweight -
Variety of frame sizes -
RockShox full suspension
-
Pricey -
27.5 x 2.8″ tires might not be as adaptable to rough terrain as traditional fat tires
Best of the Rest
-
Weight
67 lbs. (without battery) -
Motor
Bafang M620 Ultra (1,000W) -
Distance
Not specified -
Gearing
Shimano Alivio Hill-Climbing 9 speed, 40t front 11x36t cassette -
Load capacity
300 lbs.
-
Toggle between 750W, 1,000W, and max 1,500W -
Hauls weight nicely -
Very popular, so lots of reviews out there
-
Heavy -
Only one frame size
E-Bikes for Hunting Comparison Chart
| E-Bike | Price | Weight | Motor | Distance | Gearing | Load Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bakcou Storm | $6,199 | 70 lbs. | Bafang’s ULTRA mid-drive motor | 60+ mi. on full charge
(subject to change depending on settings) |
SRAM 9sp, 4 0t front & SRAM 11-34t rear cassette |
300 lbs. |
| Rad Power Bikes Rad Rover 6 Plus | $1,399 | 73.4 lbs. | 750W brushless geared hub motor | 45+ mi. on full charge (subject to change depending on settings) | 5:1 planetary gear reduction | 275 lbs. |
| Bakcou Carbon Alpha | $7,999 | 49 lbs. | Bafang M600, 500W | Up to 60 mi. | SRAM SX derailleur 12sp, 50 tooth | Not specified |
| Rambo Megatron | $6,300 | 77 lbs. | Dual Bafang 1,000W Hub | Up to 80 mi. on full charge | Single speed | 300 lbs. |
| QuietKat Apex Pro | $5,499-5,599 | 70 lbs. | 1,000W (Mid-Drive) | 24-48 mi. | SRAM 9-speed | 325 lbs. |
| Bakcou Mule | $5,499 | 67 lbs. (without battery) | Bafang M620 Ultra (1000W) | Not specified | Shimano Alivio hill-climbing 9 speed, f0t Front 11x36t cassette | 300 lbs. |
| Rambo Venom 1000 | $8,300 | 71 lbs. | Bafang 1,000W Ultra Drive | Up to 40 mi. | Rohloff 14 gears | 300 lbs. |
| QuietKat Ranger | $3,499-3,599 | 65 lbs. | 750W | 1,000W (Hub-Drive) | 19-38 mi. | SRAM 7-speed | 325 lbs. |
Why You Should Trust Us
We’re not going to lie. Here at GearJunkie, we’re spoiled and get to spend a crazy amount of time in the field testing gear. Be it hiking deep into the backcountry or hauling out big game, we’ve got no shortage of miles beneath us. This translates into an intimate view of what capabilities/features an e-bike needs to have for hunters, which are you and us.
When choosing the best e-bikes for hunting, along with our own research and experience, we also took into account the experience of seasoned hunters around us. That, paired with market demand, helped paint a clear picture of our top picks that are sure to please.
The bottom line is that transportation in the field is no joke to us. It needs to be reliable and functional for the hunter. We believe our e-bike list hits that on all fronts.
Things to Consider When Choosing an E-Bike for Hunting
E-bikes are fantastic tools for hunting, but there are a few things to consider before investing in an e-bike for your hunting adventures.
Budget
So, obviously, the first thing we need to look at is the budget, as everyone has one. As you can see, you can buy an e-bike for under $2,000, clear on up to approaching $10,000. Aside from what you can afford, of course, how do you decide what’s worth it?
I think the best way to go about deciding how much to allot for an e-bike is to ask yourself the question, “How much am I actually going to use this?” If you’re planning on only using a bike once a year for a hunt, then a more affordable option makes sense.
However, if this is going to be your go-to option of transportation in the field, I think it’s wise to save up a little more money to get a higher-end option. This is just like any other piece of gear. You get what you pay for.
Regulations
Believe it or not, there are actually regulations on e-bikes. And more particularly, the wattage and speed of the e-bike. Some states consider e-bikes simply bikes, and they fall into the category of regular bicycles. Others don’t allow e-bikes to exceed 750W and 20 mph. And the majority seem to use the three-tiered classification of e-bikes. So, before spending your hard-earned dollars on an e-bike, look into the three classifications of e-bikes and what states allow what.
Load Capacity
Another thing to consider here is load capacity. We are all different sizes. Some of us are hunting elk, and some of us are hunting whitetails. Because of this, you need to have a realistic vision of what amount of weight you need an e-bike to carry. Take the load capacity of the e-bike and subtract your weight. That’s how much weight you’ll be able to haul with the e-bike itself.
Adding a trailer, though, will increase that. Say the trailer has a load capacity of 100 pounds. That’s 100 pounds in addition to the load capacity of your e-bike. So, for a bike with a 325-pound load capacity, you could essentially be sitting at 425 pounds total if the e-bike accepts a trailer, of course.
Range/Battery Life
Range in relation to battery life is a big factor here as well. These bikes have different ranges associated with them, and it absolutely needs to be considered. You don’t want to get caught with a dead battery far off the beaten path.
Basically, the longer the battery life, the more miles you’re gonna go. That battery life is affected by how you use the bike, though. How much assistance do you require of it? What’s the terrain like that you’ll be riding through? The more assistance, the more battery life will be drained. So, don’t take the listed range number as concrete. There are variables at play.
Some companies offer extra batteries as well as solar charging capabilities, too. A very practical feature that could come in handy. Let the battery charge while you hunt all day, and no worries.
Mid-Drive vs. Hub Drive
There are two different options when it comes to motors on e-bikes. They are hub-drive and mid-drive. Hub-drive motors are located at the back wheel of the e-bike and basically have one speed and no gear changing that happens. Mid-drive is located at the peddles and has the ability to shift gears.
For those on flat ground wanting a simple option, hub drives will be a great option. It’s a press-the-throttle-and-go situation. These will suffer a bit on steep inclines and have a limited speed, which is where mid-drives take the wheel.
Mid-drives are going to be king when it comes to steep terrain because of their ability to switch gears. They can also go much faster than hub drives. With that being said, there is more of a learning curve for them. It’s like comparing a stick shift to an automatic that only has one gear.
FAQ
The best e-bike for hunting is the one that lines up the best with your personal needs and wants. For us, though, we stand by our choice of the Bakcou Storm as our best overall pick.
From where we’re standing, they are absolutely worth it for hunting, and are great tools for the field. As long as you make sure to follow local rules and regulations, they can be a serious asset.
Yes, 100%. Folks even haul elk quarters out of the field with e-bikes.
Because some e-bikes can reach some pretty dangerous speeds, they can cause serious injury on the trail, not only to riders but also to bystanders. There are also some concerns about negative wildlife and habitat impacts. Just be sure to check your local regulations and follow them.
Class 1: When it has a top speed of 20 mph and an electric motor that works only with pedaling (pedal assist).
Class 2: If equipped with a throttle-actuated motor. That motor must cease to assist when the e-bike reaches 20 mph.
Class 3: A bicycle with a motor that provides assistance only if the rider is pedaling and should cease to assist when the e-bike reaches 28 mph. Class 3 e-bikes are also known as pedelec bikes. Class 3 is the most restricted classification, and some states impose additional safety restrictions for riders on Class 3 cycles.
