Quality electric fat tire bikes can handle rugged terrain, snow, beach and mountain trails. With a fat tire e bike, you can go more places, in any kind of weather.
Not only did we review some of the best affordable options (and provide information about where to get high performance electric mountain and city bikes), but we also put together a useful guide to help you choose the one that’s just right for your needs!
“May your trails be crooked, winding, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view. May your mountains rise into and above the clouds.”
- Edward Abbey, American Author & Environmentalist -
Be it for cardio, mountain climbing or simply commuting to and from work, bicycles are perhaps the most convenient means for short distance travels.
But let’s be honest: save for the more adventurous, self-hating biker, pedaling tends to get quite exhausting. Often, you’d find yourself worn out during that over-ambitious ride, thinking about the life choices that led you there, and you’d contemplate on the most effortless ways you can end your misery.
We’ve all been there, and it sucks, but you’d be happy to know that there’s a better alternative that allows you to ride effortlessly, anywhere. Some of the best Fat tire electric bikes are gaining momentum and are becoming one of the best most desired styles of fat tire ebike available on the market today, and for good reason
We are talking about an Electric Fat Tire Bike!
These fat tire electric bikes have revolutionized the whole biking experience, making it easier and relatively more fun to go out cruising. A fat tire electric bike has the benefit of including a 4-inch-wide fat tires, which provide more surface contact with the ground, providing improved stability and traction.
You can access various terrains using the best fat tire electric bike including, unpaved rail trails, sandy beaches, snowy suburbs, rocky roads, and also urban jungles. The possibilities are endless.
When choosing an electric fat tire bike, it’s especially important to consider features such as the battery life, comfort, full suspension, as well as their reliability and ease of use.
This might come as a challenge to you if you’re a newbie.
With your interests at heart, we have done our research and reviewed among the dozens in the market, ultimately compiling ten of the best electric fat-tire bikes out there.
We reviewed electric fat tire and mountain bikes in the range from about $600 to a little over $3000.
Quick Links - Fat Tire E-Bike FAQS
In this article we hope to answer the most frequently asked questions about choosing the right electric fat bike for your needs. Want to go directly to a question? Click the link.
You may also like our review of the best skateboards for beginners & pros
Top Electric Fat Bikes 2021 — Our Picks
Before we get to our reviews, which include links to retailers who carry the products, here's a quick preview of which ones we chose based on quality, overall customer satisfaction and value for the money, along with the our rating.
Best Fat Tire E-Bikes — Current Amazon Prices
Table shows products in order from high to low at the time of our research. Since prices frequently change, the order may not be exact when you view it.
Please Note: Links in this chart go to Amazon. To see our reviews, continue reading.
COVID-19 Update
Unfortunately many of the items we have reviewed are currently unavailable for shipping (we have temporarily removed reviews for brands that are completely sold out of all ebikes on Amazon). In order to assist your shopping, we did some research and found products that are similar to the ones we reviewed if those are out of stock.
Let's get to those reviews, so you can find out which of these fantastic fat tire ebikes is right for you!
Best Fat Tire Electric Bikes of 2021 Reviews
We understand that not everyone will be hitting the mountain trails super hard with their e bike. In order to provide "something for everyone" we reviewed a mixture of city, trail, beach and mountain ebikes in different price ranges.
Update:
After we posted this review, we discovered that Ancheer recently updated it's 2018 model Electric Mountain Bike. It's a budget-friendly ebike, for under $800.
You can check it out on Amazon. Or you can view it on the Ancheer website.
Ecotric Fat Tire Electric Bike - Beach & Snow Bicycle Review
Manufacturer's Specifications
Tire Size: 26’’ X 4.0’’
Top Speed: 20 MPH
Battery Capacity: 36volt 12ah
Gears: Shimano Acera 7 Gear
Motor: 500 W
Load Capacity: 260 lbs.
With a design that is literally made to be ergonomically ideal, our number one product from Ecotric will be delivered to your doorstep, 90% assembled. The rest, you get the privilege of building yourself using the set of tools also included in the package.
The unit boasts of a sturdy frame, built using a strong aluminum alloy which makes it not only tough, but also incredibly lightweight. Its seats are easily adjustable, with an ergonomic hand bar and tires that are both anti-slip and wear-resistant.
The rest, you get the privilege of building yourself using the set of tools also included in the package.
The unit boasts of a sturdy frame, built using a strong aluminum alloy which makes it not only tough, but also incredibly lightweight. Its seats are easily adjustable, with an ergonomic hand bar and tires that are both anti-slip and wear-resistant.
To further enhance your cycling experience, the Ecotric has a Shimano 7 gear shifting system which is purely exclusive to fat tire Ebikes — meaning you can easily adjust to the gear that suits your mood and the topography of the land.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Ecotric 26" 36V 500W Fat Tire Electric Bicycle
If you order directly from Ecotric, there is a 30-day at home trial and first time buyers get $50 off. PLUS they are currently running a Spring sale. You may also be eligible for financing with no interest if paid off in 6 months, restrictions apply.
Nakto Electric Bike Fat Tire Mountain Ebike Review
Manufacturer's Specifications
Tire Size: 20’’ X 4.0’’(26" also available)
Top Speed: 20 MPH
Battery Capacity: 48volt 12ah
Gears: Shimano 6-speed
Motor: 300 W
Load Capacity: 360 lbs.
At first glance, it becomes instantly clear how the Nakto Electric Mountain bike differs from your average E-bike. Its tough carbon steel frame made together with an aluminum allow hub makes this machine extremely tough and solid enough to handle even the roughest off-road or mountain terrain.
Due to its hardcore frame, the fat tire e bike can easily carry the heaviest of riders, supporting weights of up to 220 pounds.
The bike’s front suspension forks also boast of their superior quality.
They have thick shock absorbers and damper cylinders with a 9cm buffer. This, together with the 20 by 4 inch fat tires, gives your bike enhanced high performance and gripping abilities that will allow it to climb that mountainside like a ninja.
The 20" model comes in your choice of white or black. There are also 26" models, including a cruiser style electric bike.
The Nakto best fat tire electric bike features a 300w brushless motor which is powered by a rechargeable 36v 10AH lithium-Iodine battery. This gives power to the bike, allowing it to reach high speed of up to 30mph. The battery is also removable and fully waterproof which means it can survive through all weathers.
For extra safety while riding at night, the fat tire e bike also features a led 30 degree headlight, a horn and a bulletproof braking system that has dual disk brakes which gives it a comfortable, ultra-efficient stoppage, and high performance.
With the Nakto ebike, you get the option of 3 modes:
- you can either use it as a pedal-assisted bike,
- use its twist throttle mode,
- or you can switch to the e-bike mode.
By so doing, you can sit back and relax on that lazy day. The bike’s variable speed throttle will take over and go for up to 25 miles on a full charge without need for cycling.
The Nakto is built to guarantee rider endurance, comfort and reliability — it undisputedly achieves this, while still looking stylish.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Nakto Fat Tire Electric Mountain Ebike Review
Addmotor HITHOT Dual Suspension Mountain Electric Bike H5 E-Bike Review
Manufacturer's Specifications
Tire Size: 26'' X 2.5'' Mountain Tire
Top Speed: 25 MPH
Battery Capacity: 48volt 11.6ah
Gears: Shimano 7 Speeds TX55 Gears
Motor: 500 W
Load Capacity: 300 lbs.
You’d be blind if The HITHOT Electric Bicycle does not catch your immediate attention on sight. Featuring its aggressive design, combined with popping colors and detail, the bike is simply a beautiful work of experienced craftsmanship.
The HITHOT will not only grace you with a good-looking piece but, you also get to enjoy all the benefits you’d get from those high-quality full suspension bikes on the market.
This means that the bike can handle the most advanced trails, irrespective of its electrical additions.
The bike features a 48V 500W motor on its rear which allows it to reach speeds of up to 25 mph. It’s powered by lithium 48V by 10.4AH battery pack which lets you switch between pedal-assisted mode, or you can let the bike handle all the work for you using its full-throttle mode. This can all be controlled with a twist-n-go system, which gives you six settings you can choose from.
Also notable is just how intuitively the battery on the bike is set. The battery blends so well with the appearance of the bike; it goes almost unnoticeable.
Its handlebar is also ultra-modern, with a 5-inch LCD display that updates you on all the necessary information you require as you ride. This includes the battery power and speed.
With Addmotor HITHOT, you will be able to easily cycle through tough single tracks or moderate downhill paths like you would using other high-level mountain bikes.
Our Rating: 5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Addmotor HITHOT Electric Bicycle 500W 48V Dual Suspension Mountain Electric Bike H5 E-Bike
When we last checked, the HitHot ebike was out of stock, but Addmotor's Motan Electric Fat Tire Mountain bikes were available.
vtuvia Folding Electric Bike Fat Tire - City & Mountain E-Bike Review
Manufacturer's Specifications
Tire Size: Kenda 20'' X 4.0'' 60 TPI fat tires
Top Speed: 28 MPH
Battery Capacity: 48volt 12 ah
Gears: Shimano 7-speed
Motor: 500 W
Load Capacity: 350 lbs.
There are a lot of outstanding properties that make a fat tire bike stand out from its group of peers, but nothing quite combines design and functionality than the Vtuvia folding Electric bike.
From its highly raised handle to the low laying seat, the Vtuvia kind of looks like one of those chopper custom motorcycles you see all the cool people riding in the movies. No wonder it is a favorite among the masses.
Besides its superior stylish design, the Vtuvia has higher specs than you’d find on an ordinary E-bike (within its price range).
This includes its 500W high-speed brushless motor, its 28 MPH top speed and 55 miles maximum distance, and the fact that it packs 48V 12Ah long-lasting Li-ion removable battery.
And that’s not all; the bike is made from high-quality aluminum alloy frame, with a hydraulic suspension front fork, and not to leave out its wear-resistant, shock-absorbing fat tires.
When it comes to its riding modes, the bike has 3:
- booster riding, which adds that extra thrust to your pedaling motions,
- pure electric riding, whereby you can lay back and let your bike do all the riding,
- or you can choose to go manual mode and do it yourself.
With its premium gear shift system, you can enjoy a selection of up to 7 speeds, as is suitable for your journey. It comes 85% assembled and comes with all instructions necessary (including video) to get you started.
To top it off, you can get this bike in your choice of black, white or red! And if you purchase from Amazon, you can even choose to get the bike delivered fully assembled right to your doorstop (for a small fee).
The only downside perhaps is that this baby is simply too cool for school.
Vtuvia also offers non-folding electric bikes, including and electric mountain bike with a camo design.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
vtuvia Folding Electric Bike 20 Inch Fat Tire City Mountain E-Bike 500W Motor 48V 12AH
If this one is out of stock, you may also like the non-folding vtuvia 26" 750W ebike.
Vilano Neutron Electric Folding Fat Bike Review
Manufacturer's Specifications
Tire Size: CST 20" x 4"
Top Speed: 20 MPH
Battery Capacity: 36volt 8.8 ah
Gears: Shimano 7 Speed Drive Train
Motor: 250 W Brushless Hub DC motor
Load Capacity: 300 lbs.
The people at Vilano have done it again, bringing you this two-wheeled thing of beauty. To start off, the Vilano Neutron features this too-cool-for-school design, with the raised seat and handlebars.
Its fat tires offer the freedom to zoom in between landscapes or your terrain of choice. Be it the cycling-lane asphalt or the upcountry road dirt.
The Pedal Assist System runs with a 250 W Brushless Hub Direct Rear Drive DC Motor that is powered by a 36 Volt Samsung Lithium-Ion battery.
This means that on a full charge it can give up to 30 miles (48 kilometers) of ground cover. However, you would not even notice any of this on first sight. This is because the battery is housed internally, so you can zip past your friends up the hill and watch the surprises on their faces as you impress with the Vilano Neutron.
With its 7 speed pedal assist control modes, you can get precisely the amount of exercise you want. Go for a lazy cycle around the neighborhood or shift it for speed as you blur on a clear bike lane. With a pedal assist you can also go for long distances.
Turning the motor off on the Neutron electric bike reverts it into a traditional bicycle for maximum exercise!
Our Rating: 4 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Vilano Neutron Electric Folding Fat Bike with 20" Wheels
Aceshin Folding Electric Bike 7 Speed E-Bike Review
Manufacturer's Specifications
Tire Size: 20"
Top Speed: 15 MPH
Battery Capacity: 36volt 8 ah
Gears: Shimano 7 speed
Motor: 250 W
Load Capacity: 330 lbs.
Lastly, comes Aceshin’s folding electric bicycle, the Shimano 7 speed E-Bike. As you might have deduced from the name, ladies and gentlemen, this bicycle actually folds in half. This means you can go with your bike anywhere, anytime.
The compact folded design is also nice for storage if you don't have a lot of space. It can fit snugly in the trunk of most cars car. Or for you commuters, it will tuck away nicely in the corner of your office until it's time to head home.
The Aceshin is made of a lightweight aluminum alloy so it is easy to move around and is perfect for some light lunch-hour cycling around the office block to keep the blood pumping.
It comes with 3 working modes — fully electric, assisted and normal bike.
The LED 3-speed smart meter button helps with the switching showing you precisely what mode you’re on with the throttle there for mode changing. Get that extra nudge when going up a hill or to get a move-on as the traffic light turns green.
The normal mode comes with a 7-speed gear shift for that traditional mountain bike feel.
In addition to the battery being virtually unnoticeable, it is also removable. This makes for convenient charging and with its accompanying free fast charger, you can be up and running in 4 to 6 hours. This Lithium-Ion 36 Volt 8Ah battery provides for speeds of up to 35 kilometers per hour.
By the way, Aceshin also has an affordable 26" electric mountain bike that boasts 21 speeds.
Going for groceries, going to the bank or just visiting a friend has never been faster, healthier and better for the environment. Embrace freedom, join the movement.
If you are looking for a budget friendly electric bike, this one from Aceshin is a good option.
Our Rating: 4 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Aceshin 20" Folding Electric Bike 7 Speed E-Bike, 36V Lithium Battery 250W Motor Electric Bicycle
Choosing the Best Electric Fat Tire Bikes – 2021 Ultimate Buying Guide
You may wonder, is there a point in buying a significantly more expensive electric fat tire bike when you can just settle with a normal mountain bike and save the extra 1000 bucks or so?
To answer your question sufficiently, let’s first take a look at what a fat tire bike is, and what gives it an extra advantage over regular bikes.
What is a Fat Tire Electric Bike?
A fat tire electric bike is basically a combination of your ordinary fat tire bike, or mountain bike, and an electric motor. The motor gives it all the additional benefits you’d expect from an electric bike together with the extra support of a fat tire.
Now, it’s important to note that being electric doesn’t make the bicycle a scooter or motorcycle, it merely adds power and momentum to the cycling, meaning the rider wouldn’t have to use as much energy to power through.
Yes, it can run on its own for some distance without pedaling, but it won’t be as fast or powerful as your average scooter.
What Makes a Fat Tire Electric Bike Different from a Traditional Mountain Bike?
Just as the name suggests, some of the best fat tire electric bike comes with extra-large tires, which give it an added advantage by allowing an extra surface area that keeps the bike from sinking fast on soft ground. They also give you an overall better grip on the loose surfaces, creating the feeling that you are gliding over the sand, or snow, or basically any other loose surface without sinking.
Therefore, if you like tackling hills and rough roads, or you are a competitive biker and enjoy training in the winter or on the beach, then a fat tire bike will be perfect for you.
What to Look for in a Fat Tire E-bike
Ecotric Electric Bikes come with 30 day trial, free shipping and 18 months warranty.
Now that you have an idea of what the best fat tire electric bikes are and have seen some of the best fat tire ebikes on the market, let’s take a deeper look at what exactly you should consider when looking for one of the best e tire that fits you.
◉ The Bike's Electrical Power: Is More Always Better?
When it comes to electric fat-tire bikes and power, finding the right one depends mostly on your weight and style of riding.
For instance, if you are heavier and enjoy riding in the hills regularly, you will be best suited to a bike with more wattage. Anything between 750 to 1000 watts and above would do. More watts translate to more power; therefore, it will handle you better.
If you fall under the Lighter side, and you enjoy rides with lower demands, like strolling through the park or going to work, you can do well with a less powerful bike. One with around 250 watts will be just fine, although, of course, you can increase it if you need more power if need be.
◉ The Tire Size: Bigger, is Definitely Better!
The size of the tire is another factor you have to consider.
Besides looking more superior and beastly, a fatter will give you more traction and extra stability. The good thing about fat tires is that you even have the option of adjusting the inflation in the tire with regards to the surface you are cycling on, and they will comfortably take you through.
Therefore, if you like cycling in the rougher terrain, or a region with snow and more sand, any tire that is larger than 29 inches and 4.8 to 5 inches wide, would serve you well.
You should also know that, because of their tire size, the bikes tend to be heavier than an ordinary bike. Therefore, you can adjust the tire size by considering the amount of weight you can handle.
The wheel dropout spacing should be looked into as well, any tires that exceed 4 inches in width should have 190-197 mm of spacing in rear dropouts with 150 mm in the front dropouts. The dropout spacing gives better coverage that a wider fat tire needs.
◉ Range of Gears: How Many Do You Need?
The number of gears options has a huge impact on the quality of your bike. Many of the best fat tire electric bikes will offer you a selection of speeds. If you are the more adventurous off-road biker, you will definitely need a broader range of gears. Most fat tire bikers come with three modes: manual mode, pedal-assist mode, and full-electric mode.
Manual mode will simulate any other bike, whereby you pedal without any extra power, pedal-assist is where the bike uses its electrical power to boost your momentum. Therefore, you’ll need less effort to achieve the same results. Now full-electric mode is where the bike comes to life and does everything for you. In this mode, you won’t need to break a sweat. Simply sit back, relax and let the bike take you home.
You should be especially keen when looking at gears because, if your bike lacks a manual mode, for example, you stand the risk of running out of power mid-way, and it will be excessively difficult getting home. On the other hand, with a manual mode in place, you’d simply cycle as normal if the battery ran out.
How To: Choose a Hybrid Bike | Courtesy of Trek Bicycles
◉ Maximum MPH: Do You Have a Need for Speed?
Like most motor vehicles out there, different electric bikes feature a different range of speeds. You should, therefore, select one with the speed that will best serve your needs.
Some of the top speeders go as fast as 25mph, with others even hitting 30 MPH. Although these are relatively more expensive, they will serve you well in those long distances of heavy cycling. The bikes also feature specially designed braking systems that will allow you to stop abruptly if need be.
If you are one who prefers taking it easy, you can opt for bikes in the lower end of the speed scale, featuring speeds of 10 to 15 mph, these bikes will come in handy in mountain terrains where speed is not required or if you’re cycling zone is subject to traffic.
◉ Is the Display Modern and Technologically Advanced: This Comes as an Extra!
Most electric bikes come with a digital display, which can be quite handy.
The most basic of them all will inform you about your battery level and the speed you are going on. However, the more advanced displays will go as far as telling you the distance you have covered and the amount of time you have left till you run out.
If you think these small extra features are important to you, then you should get one with such a digital display. Otherwise, you can still do without them, that is if you are good at banking on your intuition.
◉ Quality of Headlights: Important for Nighttime Riding
A headlight is another fundamental feature that practically any bike should have.
The best electric fat-tire bikes will feature more advanced, brighter headlights that recharge as you cycle. This typically implies that the lights will never go of.
If you find yourself occasionally riding during the night time or early morning hours, your bike should have higher quality headlights. Some of these bikes also come with additional reflectors so people can see you can ride comfortably without worrying if other drivers will see you.
Electric Fat Tire Electric Bikes FAQ’s
As a potential owner of one of the best fat tire electric bike, there are some questions you are probably asking yourself before you make that ultimate investment, as have many before you.
We will, therefore, look at some of these frequently searched questions on the best fat tire electric bikes to help you make a better judgment.
The History of Mountain Bike Wheel Size | Courtesy of Trek Bikes
How Do You Set Up an Electric Fat Tire Bike?
Once you receive your fat tire electric bike at your doorstep, your first instinct will probably be ripping open the box and taking it for a spin down the neighborhood. However, there are steps that you need to follow for a smoother first hand experience with these fat tire electric bikes.
Disclaimer: Much as we have given you a general set up procedure, your fat tire electric bike may come with its own different set of instructions. That said, you should always refer to your manual and follow it to the later for best results.
Video: How To: Care for Your E-Bike
Yup, another video from Trek! Don't worry, we'll review higher end fat tire ebikes in the future!
How Much Does a Typical Electric Fat Tire Bike Cost?
Typically, the cost of a fat tire electric bike will have a price range from $1000 to $3000. Safe to say, the higher the price, the more features you get. There are also higher end electric mountain bikes designed for riding hard that start at around $4000 and can go over ten grand. Needless to say, this is more than most people need on a electric mountain bike.
With lower-priced bikes, going for slightly below to slightly over 1000$, you will get the most basic features like an electric motor and a basic selection of gears including your typical manual mode and maybe, a pedal-assist mode. However, if you are willing and able to spare the extra grand or two, you will surely get your money’s worth.
Higher-end bikes feature significantly better quality and sturdier material, which makes them more durable in the long run — especially if ride your bike hard! You will get top speeds and the full range of gears, including a full-electric mode, whereby you won’t need to cycle at all. You will also get a full digital display with extra functionality. Like knowing how much power you have left or how much distance you’ve covered.
So, if you are wondering whether spending more will give you more, the answer is yes.
What is the Best Fat Bike Frame for Your Body Size?
Since you’ll probably use your fat tire bike to ride in more challenging paths, it is extremely important to choose a bike that suits your height.
A well-suited frame will give you a nice reach for your arms and legs. Therefore, you will be able to maintain your agility and balance on the course of your journey.
Typically, if you fall between 4 feet 10 inches to 5 feet 5 inches, you will do well with a 14 inch (XS) or a 15 inch (S). If you are over 6 feet, you can try your luck with 18 inch (XL) or a 19 inch (XXL). If you fall in between, then you can use a 16 inch (M) or 17 inch (L).
This is all variable, of course, depending on the length of your leg inseam. Most manufacturers will offer you a sizing chart, or provide sizes like L, M, and S to make your selection easier, however, if you fall between sizes, the rule of thumb will be to lean onto the smaller size.
Wheel size is also another factor that you can tune with regards to your preference and body size — the standard wheel sizes for most bikes are 26 inches.
However, nowadays, you can get 27.5 or 29-inch wheels on your fat bike. The larger the wheel, the easier it is to counter obstacle because of a lower attack angle. But with smaller wheels, you will find it easier to maneuver.
If you like riding the rougher stone-filled trails, larger wheels would be good for it; however, if you are into more twisted trails with tricky turns, a smaller sized wheel would be handier.
For ultimate comfort, you can also adjust the wheel size with your height. Basically, if you are 6 feet tall and over, you’ll be better suited with a 29’’ wheel.
A Few Final Words...
Fat tire ebikes allow for riding on roads, beaches and trails. You can choose to pedal, or use the motor!
“Ride as much or as little or as long or as short as you feel, but ride!”
- Eddy Merckx, Pro Cyclist -
Electric fat tire bikes are growing to be more popular with time.
And they are growing more and more in the market, which eventually means a tougher selection to choose from. What all these fat tire e bikes have in common is their high price value.
Due to this, it is crucial that you choose one that is most satisfactory to your personal needs. You can decide this by calculating the distance you usually cover, the terrains you want to tread through, or the speed you want it to have.
You should also consider your particular body size and choose one that has a correspondingly suitable frame and tire size. Some even feature a built-in USB charging port; therefore, if your mobile device needs a constant charge while you are on the road, you should consider one of those.
Electric fat tire bikes will greatly improve your cycling experience. They feel more powerful than your regular mountain bike and are generally more fun to ride.
We hope our top picks will guide you in your selection and ultimately bring joy to your off-road cycling adventures!