Can You Get a Decent E-Bike for Under £500? We Tested These Models

Finding a reliable e-bike without breaking the bank might sound like wishful thinking, especially with so many high-end models costing well over £1,000. But if you’re just getting started or need a practical solution for short daily trips, you might be surprised by what’s available for less than £500.

I set out to answer this simple question: Can you really get a decent e-bike under £500? To find out, I tested a handful of budget-friendly electric bikes and compared them across the things that matter most — comfort, build quality, battery life, and ease of use.

Whether you’re a student, commuter, or casual rider, this guide will help you decide if a sub-£500 e-bike is worth your time — and money.

What to Expect from a Budget E-Bike

Before jumping into specific models, let’s talk about what these affordable bikes typically offer — and what they don’t.

What you’ll usually get:

• A 250W motor (the legal limit for most regions)
• Top speeds around 25 km/h
• Battery range of 30–40 km
• Compact or folding frames
• Basic displays and control systems

What you likely won’t get:

• Long-range batteries (unless you ride very efficiently)
• Hydraulic brakes or advanced gearing
• Full app integration or smart features
• High-end suspension systems

But that doesn’t mean they’re not useful. These bikes can be ideal for city rides, errands, or quick commutes, especially if you’re short on space or on a tight budget.

My Testing Setup

To keep things fair and practical, I tested each e-bike on real roads and in common scenarios — short commutes, uphill rides, grocery runs, and storage in tight flats. My focus was on:

• Portability
• Comfort over short to mid distances
• Battery range in normal use (not lab conditions)
• How easy they are to charge, carry, and maintain

1. DYU D3F 14″ Mini Folding E-Bike

💷 Price: £349

If you’re looking for the most compact and affordable electric ride, the DYU D3F is a strong contender. It’s the smallest and lightest e-bike I tested, with a clean, simple design that folds partially for easier storage.

👍 What I liked:

• Lightweight and compact — perfect for small homes or train commutes
• Simple to operate, with a one-button control and pedal assist
• Surprisingly smooth for short trips

👎 What to consider:

• No suspension — you’ll feel every pothole
• Not ideal for long rides or hilly terrain

Best for: Students, urban commuters, or anyone needing a minimalist folding e-bike under £500

2. Windgoo B20 Folding E-Bike

💷 Price: £399

This model caught my eye for its futuristic design. The Windgoo B20 is sleek, light, and designed for easy storage. It lacks pedals on some versions (check before buying), making it more of an e-scooter than a traditional bike.

👍 What I liked:

• Super compact and very easy to carry
• Sleek, enclosed frame looks great
• Charges quickly

👎 What to consider:

• Low range and no pedals on some versions
• Not the best for uneven roads

Best for: Flat-city riders and short commutes with limited storage

3. DYU C3 14″ Folding E-Bike

💷 Price: £419

The DYU C3 is a slight step up from the D3F, offering rear suspension for a comfier ride. The frame is also step-through, which makes it easier to mount and dismount — especially useful if you’re wearing a backpack or shopping bags.

👍 What I liked:

• Rear shock really helps with small bumps
• Upright seating feels natural and relaxed
• Good value for the comfort features included

👎 What to consider:

• A bit heavier than D3F
• Still basic in terms of display and controls

Best for: Riders who want a smoother city ride without spending much more

4. Eleglide M1 (When on Sale)

💷 Price: £499

This one isn’t always under £500, but it sometimes drops into the budget range during seasonal discounts. It’s a full-sized mountain-style e-bike with bigger wheels and more power than typical folding models.

👍 What I liked:

• Comfortable and capable of longer rides
• Great for mixed surfaces and small hills
• Pedals feel more natural than small wheel e-bikes

👎 What to consider:

• Not foldable — needs proper bike storage
• Check for sales, as regular price is higher

Best for: Taller riders or those needing a full-sized feel at a bargain price

5. DYU A5 14″ Full Folding E-Bike

💷 Price: £499

This is the most advanced option of the DYU group. The A5 comes with both front and rear suspension, a full-fold frame, and a more adjustable design — ideal for longer rides or heavier use.

👍 What I liked:

• Best ride comfort in this price range
• Fully adjustable seat and handlebar
• Solid build that feels above its price

👎 What to consider:

• Heaviest of the three DYU models
• Near the top of the £500 budget line

Best for: Riders who want comfort, flexibility, and plan to ride more often

Final Thoughts: Is a Sub-£500 E-Bike Worth It?

If you keep your expectations realistic, the answer is yes. While you won’t get the longest range or premium parts, you can absolutely find a reliable e-bike that gets you where you need to go — especially for city commutes, short errands, or getting around a campus.

Each of the bikes above has its own sweet spot:

• DYU D3F is ultra-compact and ideal for very short rides
• DYU C3 balances comfort and price well
• DYU A5 offers full features without a premium price
• Windgoo B20 works well if storage is your biggest concern
• Eleglide M1 is worth watching if you want more power and range

Ready to Try One?

If you’re thinking about taking the leap, start by defining your top priorities — portability, comfort, or distance. Then check current pricing and delivery options, and be sure to read real user reviews before clicking buy.

👉 Want to keep researching? Check out this helpful E-Bike Buying Guide to learn more about laws, battery care, and how to ride safely.

Still not sure which one to pick? Drop me a comment or message — happy to help you narrow it down.

Ride safe, stay curious, and enjoy the electric freedom.

FAQ

1. Can I really get a decent e-bike for under £500?

Yes — if you’re realistic about features. You’ll get basic range, a 250W motor, and simple design, which is great for city rides and short commutes.

2. Which e-bike is best for very limited storage space?

The DYU D3F is the most compact and lightweight, perfect for small flats or train travel.

3. What’s the difference between the DYU D3F, C3, and A5 models?

• D3F: Basic, ultra-light
• C3: Adds rear suspension for comfort
• A5: Full suspension, larger frame, more comfortable for longer rides

4. How far can these budget e-bikes go on one charge?

Most offer a real-world range of 30–40 km, depending on rider weight, terrain, and assist level.

5. Are sub-£500 e-bikes suitable for hilly areas?

Not ideal — they can manage mild slopes, but lack the torque and gearing needed for steep hills. They’re best on flat city roads.