Best Electric Bike for Short Riders – Turn Your Height To Your Advantage

When you’re a shorter rider than average, it can be a challenge to find an electric bike suiting your height. If anything, the average rider height is 5’8″ (173 cm) and most electric bikes are designed for these people.

However, it’s still possible to find a few amazing electric bikes for short riders, specifically designed to meet the needs of the riders with below the average height. So, how unique are these electric bikes, and what do they have that the conventional e-bikes lack? 

Let us break it down for you….

Best Electric Bikes For Short Riders of 5’8″ (173 cm) height or Below:

Editor’s 1st Choice

Electric Bikes for Short Riders: RadMini Step-Thru 2

RadMini Step-Thru 2

Overall Rating:

  • Riders Weight Limit275 lbs (125 kg)
  • Motor | 750W Geared Hub Motor
  • Range | Up to 45+ miles
  • Battery | 48V, 14 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery
  • Speed | 20 mph

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Editor’s 2nd Choice

Radrunner Plus

RadRunner Plus

Overall Rating:

  • Riders Weight Limit300 lbs (137 kg)
  • Motor | 750W Geared Hub Motor
  • Range | Up to 45+ miles
  • Battery | 48V, 14 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery
  • Speed | 28 mph

Learn More!

Read Review

Editor’s 3rd Choice

Radrunner 1

RadRunner 1

Overall Rating:

  • Riders Weight Limit | 300 lbs (137 kg)
  • Motor | 750W Geared Hub Motor
  • Range | Up to 45+ miles
  • Battery | 48V, 14 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery
  • Speed | 20 mph

Learn More!

Read Review

Best Electric Bike for Short Riders – Turn Your Height To Your Advantage 1

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Electric Bikes for Short Riders

Getting the right electric bike for short riders can be very tricky. Not only do you have to make sure it has all the right features but you also have to ensure it being the right size.

After all, you wouldn’t want to spend your hard earned money on an electric bike that ends up too big or too small.

To make things easy, we’ve gone through heaps of products, user reviews, and the finest of details to compile a list of the best electric bikes for short riders. we’ve also answered some of the commonly asked questions to help you make an informed decision.

How to Find The Right Electric Bikes for Short Riders

How to Find The Right e-Bike for Short People

Photo credited by radpowerbikes

Below we have listed some important factors that must be considered when buying an electric bike for short riders.

Wheel Size

If you get an electric bike with wheels that are too big, you might have trouble handling your e-bike. This can be extremely dangerous as you’d be at a higher risk of falling and injuring yourself.

If you’re around 5 feet and 5 or 6 inches tall, an e-bike with 20 inch diameter tires might be a great fit for you. Whereas electric bikes with 14 and 16 inch diameter tires is a better option for riders that are relatively short around the 5 foot mark height.

Any electric bike that comes with tires bigger than 20 inches — especially 26 inch diameter tires which are very common in adult e-bikes — should be avoided as they might be bigger electric bikes for short riders to handle.

Also Related:

Best Electric Bikes for Tall People – Tall Riders Top Choices

Small Frame Electric Bikes

Just like wheel size, getting an electric bike with the right size frame is essential for a comfortable and a safe ride.

Although every person is different, you might have different requirements than someone else but generally speaking, for riders between 4ft 10in to 5ft 2in, an electric bike with a 13 to 14 inch frame would be a good fit.

Whereas a 15 to 16 inch small frame electric bike will be a better fit for you if you’re 5 foot 2 inches to 5 foot 6 inches.

Adjustable Seats

If you’re a short person, you have to make sure you buy an ebike that comes with an adjustable seat.

This is important as it allows you to easily set the seat height according to your liking. This way, you’ll not only be able to have a more comfortable riding experience but also a pleasant one.

Also Related:

Best E-Bike For Short Females – Petite Riders Top Choices

Which is the Best Electric Bike for Short Riders?

#1. Radmini Step-Thru 2

Radmini Step-Thru 2

The RadMini Step-Thru 2 is a surprisingly low bike that allows riders to easily hop on and off with ease. It is easily one among the top electric bikes for short riders in 2024. Thanks to its low step frame boasting a minimal 16” height, it’s simply easier for people with fun sizes ranging from 4’1 to 5’6 to mount and unmount. 

Of course, there’s the fun advantage of having a portable foldable bike, especially when you’re trying to save space. That’s why it’s needless to say that the design was well thought through. 

The bike may look simplistic, still, it seems like the main purpose was achieved- convenience, easy accessibility, and optimal performance.

How is this possible, you ask? The deep step-through design allows a flawless mount every time this bike is picked up. Then when you’re tired of pulling the extra weight around, simply stand down, put the kickstand to use, and conveniently relax. 

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Even more, its leveled and low height advantage doesn’t take anything away from its all-around performance. There’s the 750 Watts on-demand power to consider, that high-level torque makes sure you can conveniently go uphill or ride on unconventional roads without stress. 

With a simple twist of the ergonomic throttle, this electric bike seamlessly achieves thrilling and exciting levels of speed. We have the brushless motor to thank for this, the power capacity impressively produces 80 NM of torque with support from the reliable 48V lithium battery. 

What’s even better are the water-resistant connectors and wiring harnesses that make riding in the rain or in puddles concern-free. There’s nothing better than riding with just one or two thoughts in mind; fun and effortless functionality. 

Extra perks like puncture-resistant tires, accessible USB ports, and backlit displays make arguments against this electric bike practically baseless. But even though you just want a simple bike for easy commuting, having a cute little RadMini would still be a huge advantage.

RadMini Step-Thru 2

Main Features:

  • Riders Weight Limit | 275 lbs (125 kg)
  • Motor | 750W Geared Hub Motor
  • Range | Up to 45+ miles
  • Battery | 48V, 14 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery
  • Speed | 20 mph

#2. RadRunner Plus Electric Bike

Radrunner Plus

If you love long commutes and fun adventures on and off-road, then the RadRunner would be a smart, affordable, functional, and ergonomic choice. It’s one of those bicycles that takes comfort into consideration above all things. 

The extra-padded seats make that very clear. Plus it comes with an extended passenger seat that’s equally padded for a partner, friend, or family member. Just like most of the Rad bikes, the design is quite simple. 

The design is not over the top or something to really show off about. Still, if you love retro styles and functional frames, then the RadRunner satisfies both essentials. 

To further explain its distinguishable functionality, this electric bike comes with a 7-speed drivetrain that makes outdoor exploring fun and versatile. Riders can choose to take things slow and steady while commuting to and from work or running errands. 

However, rockier roads, hills, sandy terrains, and off-road tracks, in general, may require more torque and power capacity. 

Thankfully, the well-thought-out design on the RadRunner allows you and an extra friend to choose between a good range of speed options without compromising on fun, safety, or comfort. Plus, the integrated head and tail lights ensure all paths stay lit regardless of the time of the day. 

But most importantly, the RadRunner is yet another low-framed electric bikes for short riders. It can be quite annoying trying to overreach on a regular bike built for people with a height ranges from 5”6 to 6”6. 

The RadRunner, by popular opinion, is one electric bicycle that has successfully combined retro aesthetics and modern functionality with a guaranteed convenient riding experience for fun-sized riders.

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Radrunner Plus

Main Features:

  • Riders Weight Limit | 300 lbs (137 kg)
  • Motor | 750W Geared Hub Motor
  • Range | Up to 45+ miles
  • Battery | 48V, 14 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery
  • Speed | 28 mph

Also Related:

Best All Terrain Electric Bikes: Everywhere Ebikes for Every Rider

#3. RadRunner 2 Electric Utility Bike

Radrunner 1

Any electric bicycle that fails to deliver comfort, convenience, optimal speed, and versatile functionality may not be the best pick for a true cycling enthusiast. However, as a short rider, what should really be essential are lower frames and a convenient riding experience.

But that’s the only low thing about this electric bike. The RadRunner two probably wowed users because of the phenomenal twist they provide during the ordering process. The Rad Power Bikes website gives 330 additional accessories to help customize the design. 

This means every customer will have the choice to personalize their RadRunners with various racks and platforms to explore. It’s unarguably one of the best benefits of getting this electric bicycle. 

That’s because the initial design is quite bare and basic. Of course, people who love minimalistic designs won’t mind this. Still, beyond the simple design, the RadRunner 2 delivers on performance, speed, optimal battery levels, and functionality. 

Apart from the somewhat v-shaped step-thru frame, there’s an upgraded saddle that makes this electric bike a better pick than its predecessor. The seat has extra padding to improve comfort and an ergonomic angle that improves the overall riding experience. 

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Many potential buyers aren’t convinced with a few simple quirks and an extra-padded seat. This is understandable, riders want to know how durable, functional, and stable their electric bikes will be. 

That’s why it was important to consider the electric bikes’ stability, power, and battery life amongst other things. It was nice to know that the RadRunner 2 rocks a laid-back head tube angle that helps to improve stability. 

That works hand in hand with the sturdy front fork which gives riders optimal control while they ride around town. It is important to note that, with just a single-speed drivetrain, this electric bike is probably more suited to city-round commutes or casual riding. 

It may not be best to think about adventurous speeds with this utility E-bike. Still, the LED control panel, integrated rear rack, and 750W power are certainly consolation. The LED panel displays everything from the battery level, power buttons, pedal assistance, and lights. 

While the rear rack can shoulder baskets, panniers, or even hold an extra seat. Last but not least, thanks to the powerful geared hub motor, this E-bike can power through steep hills, rocky roads, and sandy terrains. 

Radrunner 1

Main Features:

  • Riders Weight Limit | 300 lbs (137 kg)
  • Motor | 750W Geared Hub Motor
  • Range | Up to 45+ miles
  • Battery | 48V, 14 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery
  • Speed | 20 mph

Also Related:

Best Electric Bikes for Teens: Give Them Something Unique

Yovital 20 Inch Fat Tire Electric Bike (Cheaper Options)

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If you’re searching for the best electric bikes for short riders but also want something fast, versatile, and with a long range, then you might find this e-bike by Yovital interesting.

Featuring 20 inch diameter tires, this is a perfect electric bike for short riders — unlike most adult e-bikes that come with 26 inch diameter tires. In addition to it being a great electric bike for short riders, the tires are also 4 inch wide which makes this e-bike capable of handling all sorts of terrain: sand, snow, mud, and paved paths.

Furthermore, it comes with a 500W brushless gear motor which equips this e-bike with a top speed of 20 miles per hour. Apart from speed, the 500W motor also allows you to easily get over steep slopes with minimum pedaling.

Supporting the powerful motor is an equally powerful 48V 14Ah battery. This lithium-ion Samsung battery allows you to cover a distance of 30 miles (48 km) in throttle mode, and up to 50 miles (80 km) in pedal-assist mode.

However, if you’ll be hauling your electric bike around, then this e-bike might not be for you. Tipping the scale at 64 pounds (29 kg), carrying this e-bike is a workout in itself. This will especially be a problem for you if you live in an apartment or don’t have a garage to store your e-bike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Bike Has the Lowest Seat Height?

The Swagtron EB-6 Bandit electric bike has the lowest seat height out of all the e-bikes in my list above.

The seat is adjustable and can be lowered down to about 32 inches off the ground. Therefore, even if you’re around 5 feet, you’d have no trouble getting on and off your e-bike or struggle with your feet not touching the ground.

Does Bike Size Really Matter?

Yes! Getting the right size electric bike for short riders is crucial for several reasons: comfort, a better riding experience, and to avoid all sorts of short and long term injuries.

If you get an electric bike that is too big for you, you’d find yourself leaning forward more just to reach the handlebar. This will put a lot of strain on your lower back and can eventually result in lower back pain. Secondly, this bad positioning will also put a lot of pressure on your wrists and can cause wrist pain. 

Apart from the discomfort caused by the bad posture, you’ll also be putting yourself at a higher risk of crashing and injuring yourself.

Handling an electric bike that is too big for you is difficult and you’ll have much less control while riding. That coupled with the boost you get from the electric motor can result in you crashing and hurting yourself. Therefore, due to these reasons, buying the right size electric bikes for short riders is of paramount importance.

Shorter Frame?

You need to choose an electric bike with a smaller frame. It should be less than that of the average electrical bike, and when in use, it should give you proper control of the bike.

Handlebars

The handlebars for electric bikes for short riders should similarly be shorter, and they shouldn’t be angled. Preferably, they should be straight with no inclination or sloping to allow for an easy reach and fit. This is especially important for electric bike for women.

Wheels

Two of the common sizes for electric bikes are the 700c and 650c Now, if you were to choose between the two, we would advise that you pick the 650c tires.

This is because, unlike the 700c tire, 650C tires:

  • Won’t result to toe strikes
  • Will promote greater handling characteristics.
  • Won’t push you too far forward
  • Will give you ease of reach to the handlebars.

While the 650c tires aren’t easily available, they’re worth the hassle since they’re comfortable and suited for the small electric bikes for short riders.

Frame Types

There are three main frame types electric bike manufacturers stick to in terms of design. However, the different types could majorly determine how convenient or functional the bike will be for different people. 

So, before you wave this off, take a minute or two to get familiar with the various frames that may end up being the determining factor when picking out a suitable E-bike. 

Low Step Frame

Practically anyone can benefit from a low step frame simply because of the easy entry. There’s no lateral bar that blocks the entry and exit which makes it one of the convenient electric bikes for short riders, or those with knee/leg problems.

Diamond Frame

Electric bicycles with a diamond frame have not just one triangle design, but two. On the mainframe, there’s a triangular connection from the top to the base. The same thing is repeated on the rare angle connected to the back tire. 

This back-to-back triangle pattern inspired the name, Diamond frame. It’s also considered to be one of the strongest frame designs for bicycles.  

Step-thru Frame

Most step-thru frames combine the diamond frame and low-step design to reap the benefits of the two electric bikes for short riders. A strong frame plus an easy entry/exit is what most step-thru frames seek to achieve.

There’s usually no crossbar at the entry point to ensure riders can swing their legs through easily without stress.

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