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How to Choose an Electric Bike: An eBike Buying Guide

How to Choose an Electric Bike: An eBike Buying Guide

Jenny Moore |

The Flyer™ line is an extension of the Radio Flyer® brand created with the same beautiful design and quality that has inspired our work for over a century. Our selection of eBikes delivers the technology and hauling capabilities to get you, your crew, and your cargo where you need to go safely and efficiently. Our eBike line currently includes five models: the Flyer™ M880, Flyer™ L885, Flyer™ Folding Cargo, Flyer Cruiser™ and Flyer™ Cruiser Step-Thru.

Which one is right for you? Read on to learn more about our eBike models.

Flyer™ eBikes Comparison

All Flyer™ eBikes offer modern micromobility solutions for that infuse fun and function, but the models differ on a few product specs that make them unique. Key differences can be summarized below:

Model

Flyer™ Folding Cargo

Flyer™ M880

Flyer™ L885

Flyer™ Cruiser

Price

$1,699

$1,799

$1,999

$1,799

Style

Folding

Midtail Cargo

Longtail Cargo

Cruiser & Cruiser Step-Thru

Payload Capacity

300 lbs.

300 lbs.

400 lbs.

285 lbs.

Rear Rack Capacity

80 lbs.

80 lbs.

150 lbs.

80 lbs.

Bike Weight

53 lbs.

67 lbs.

73 lbs.

59 lbs.

Total Bike Length

Unfolded: 66.64"

Folded: 35.5"

73.34"

83.78"

74.8”

Step-Thru: 74.5”

Wheelbase

46.14"

44.21"

55.86"

48.7"

Step-Thru: 48.3”

Recommended Rider Height Range

4'11" - 6'4"

5’2” - 6’3”

5’1” - 6’2”

5'2" - 6'3"

Room for Additional Passengers

Up to 1 additional passenger

Up to 1 additional passenger

Up to 2 additional passengers

Up to 1 additional passenger

 

Family Cargo eBikes: Flyer™ L885 and Flyer™ M880

Both models feature our 48V Flight Speed™ Lithium-Ion battery, 500W brushless hub motor, LCD display, 5 levels of pedal-assist with cadence sensor, and a half twist throttle for on demand power. You can customize the Flyer™ M880 or the Flyer™ L885 by selecting your bike color and accessories in one simple process. There are also three frame sizes available to best fit rider heights.

 

Folding Cargo eBike: Flyer™ Folding Cargo

Enjoy an efficient ride with our Flight Speed™ 48V, 10Ah UL 2271 tested rechargeable battery pack and 350W brushless hub motor. Use the thumb throttle to travel up to 20 mph for 20-40+ miles. Plus, you can charge your iPhone on the go by plugging in your smartphone to the bike. A LCD display allows riders to track their ride by speedometer, battery charge level, pedal assist level, bluetooth connection, USB charger, and headlight indicator.

 

Classic Cruiser eBike: Flyer™ Cruiser and Flyer™ Cruiser Step-Thru

Discover the classic styling and comfortable ride with Flyer™ Cruiser electric bikes. The comfort adjustable saddle provides ample cushioning for all riders. Featuring spring suspension, the vegan leather saddle absorbs bumps for a smooth ride. Plus, a USB port charges your phone on the go, making it easy to navigate to the beach or check your grocery list on a full charge. No matter your errand, haul up to 80 pounds of cargo or one child on the integrated cargo rack. The Flyer™ Cruiser Step-Thru frame provides an easy on off option for all riders.

Still need help deciding? Here’s a few reasons why either model might be a better fit for you.

The Flyer™ Cruiser may be right for you if…

  • You are looking for an accessible ride. The Flyer™ Cruiser Step-Thru features an easy on off frame for all riders. As the name intends, riders can easy step into the bike frame to the comfort saddle, providing a smooth ride for all riders.
  • You are looking for a colorful frame. The Flyer™ Cruiser is available in black and grey, while the Flyer™ Cruiser Step-Thru is available in beach-inspired colors like red, blue, white, and mint. Build your perfect ride with colorful frames and custom Flyer™ accessories.
  • You are looking for a classic bike style. Inspired by classic cruiser bikes, the Flyer™ Cruiser add nostalgia to the thrill of an electric bike. So if you’re cruising to the beach or running weekend errands, the cruiser style electric bike will add classic styling to your modern adventures.

The Flyer™ Folding Cargo may be right for you if…

  • You need to use your electric bike to commute. The Flyer Folding Cargo is a commuter’s necessity. With a 20-40+ mile range per charge, you can travel to and from work efficiently (and skip traffic!) Plus, the Flight Speed™ 48V UL Tested battery can easily be removed after your commute to charge at your desk.
  • You have limited storage options. This is our lightest frame yet with an unfolded length of 66.64" and folded length of 35.5". Featuring an easily foldable design frame, the bike stores in garages, trunks, or in apartments neatly.
  • You are looking for an everyday micro-mobility solution. For riders who are mainly looking for an electric bike for last-mile errands or commuting, this is the electric bike for you. Featuring an 80 lbs capacity on the rear rack, custom storage and kid carrying solutions can help you design the best bike to fit your lifestyle.

The Flyer™ M880 may be right for you if…

  • You need a more compact cargo bike. The total bike length of the M880 is about 10 inches less than the L885 for tight squeezes in garages or apartments.
  • You are interested in the look of a traditional bike. While both models have a similar design & aesthetic to that of a conventional bike, the M880 more closely resembles the appearance of one since its wheels are the same size and the rear rack is relatively compact. The L885 has a smaller back wheel (specifically designed for cargo hauling) and a longer rear rack than the M880.
  • You are planning to use your eBike mainly for leisure. For all ages and experience levels, the Flyer™ M880 is the perfect everyday adult electric bike to rekindle the joy & freedom of your first set of wheels. Whether you’re racking up some miles on your favorite bike path or going for a joy ride, the Flyer™ L885 turns every outing into an adventure while still combining performance and cargo hauling capabilities. The rear rack can haul up to 80 lbs., perfect for a small bag, purse, personal items, or one of your little ones.

The Flyer™ L885 may be right for you if…

  • You need ultimate hauling capabilities. The Flyer™ L885 is the ultimate eBike for kid & cargo hauling. Featuring a payload capacity of 400 lbs., this longtail cargo eBike ensures you can haul it all. Ride with up to two additional passengers or haul up to 150 lbs. of cargo on the rear rack. The L885 is even ergonomically designed with a smaller 20” rear wheel to create a lower center of gravity for increased stability and enhanced efficiency for an altogether smoother ride with cargo in tow.
  • You are interested in maximizing your range. Both eBike models feature a Flight Speed™ Lithium Ion-Battery with a range of up to 50+ miles per charge, but unlike the Flyer™ M880, the Flyer™ L885 is designed with a port for an additional Extended Range Battery. When you add another battery, you can instantly double your range for longer trips and less time spent waiting for your electric bike to recharge.
  • You are planning to use your eBike as a minivan replacement. It’s time to trade in the car keys for a bike helmet: the Flyer™ L885 delivers a sustainable and convenient way for your family to get out and explore your world. With an optimal combination of speed, durability, and hauling capability, this eBike allows parents to get where they need to go with ease and style. You can fit up to two kids on the rear of the bike with compatible accessories like the Kid & Cargo Carrier or the Thule® Yepp Maxi Seat. Running errands, grabbing groceries, and heading to the little league game with your crew in tow has never been this easy or this much fun.

 

Which Flyer™ eBike will you be using for your adventures? If you need additional help finding the right model for you, our award-winning support team is here to help. Fast and friendly help from our representatives is available Monday-Friday from 8 am to 5 pm CST. You can also check out our 24/7 online service resources to help answer any frequently asked questions.

 

Ready to fly? Learn more about Flyer™ eBikes and order yours today.

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