There's no shortage of electric bike options out there today, but that's not always a good thing. For every quality e-bike out there, there are countless models with flashy specs and questionable reviews, sold by brands you've never heard of (and might not be able to find again tomorrow). All those choices can make shopping for an e-bike exhausting, and with a purchase this big, the last thing you want is something that doesn't deliver. That's why we're proud to see the Schwinn Roanoke rise above the rest and earn a spot on Yahoo Life's list of Best Electric Bikes of 2025.
Top Pick for Electric Mountain Bikes
In a recent roundup of standout e-bikes, Yahoo Life editor April McCormick highlighted nine of the year's best, based on their independent evaluation and hands-on testing. The list featured a wide range of models and prices, from stylish cruisers to kid-hauler cargo bikes, but the Schwinn Roanoke grabbed their attention as the best electric mountain bike. It combines traditional mountain bike features with the excitement and ease of an electric motor, all from a trusted brand that basically built the entire bike industry.
Why They Loved It
Simplicity wins. Rather than tacking on accessories that just add weight and get in the way, we built the Roanoke around features that actually make the ride better. With a focus on versatility, confidence-inspiring capability, and rider comfort, Roanoke is the ideal electric mountain bike, especially for new riders looking for a boost without losing the feel of a traditional bike.
Calling it a "mountain bike" doesn't mean it's ultra-specialized, though. We designed the Roanoke for everyday adventures: whether that means riding on a paved bike path, or tearing into the dirt trails on the weekend. It’s perfect for riders looking for an approachable e-MTB with legit features, minus the intimidation factor. April's article sums it up perfectly:
"The e-bike's design focuses on what's important to a mountain biker: an SR Suntour suspension fork that absorbs rough terrain, wide mountain tires for grip and mechanical disc brakes that stop fast on wet or dry trails. My son especially enjoyed riding this bike with his friends since he could go from street to trail and back with ease."
April McCormick, Yahoo Life
As a class 2 e-bike, the Roanoke comes equipped with everything you need for a great ride, on the trail or around town:
- 500-watt hub-drive motor with both pedal assist and throttle
- Up to 35 miles of range on a single charge
- Rechargeable lithium battery, charges in just about 4 hours
- Modern mountain bike frame geometry for control and comfort
- Front suspension fork to smooth out bumps along the way
- Disc brakes for reliable stopping power
E-Bike Performance at a Down-to-Earth Price
Here’s the best part: everything we just described comes at a refreshingly affordable price. At well under the cost of most electric mountain bikes, the Roanoke proves you don’t need to overspend to get real quality, power, and comfort in one ride.
It’s built by Schwinn, so you’re not just getting a solid e-bike, you’re getting decades of trusted quality, thoughtful design, and customer support that lasts long after your first ride. Whether you’re new to electric bikes or just want a reliable upgrade that won’t drain your budget, the Roanoke delivers where it counts.