eBikes Spring 2026

eBike Tests

  • Test Report: Brompton’s C-Line e-Motiq is a Versatile Folding eBike for a Wide Range of Riders

  • Test Report: Tern’s New GSD S10 Gen 3 Sets a Benchmark for eCargo Bike Innovation and Fun

  • Test Report: Orbea’s New Carpe 10 Urban eBike Delivers Performance, Lightweight & Comfort

  • Test Report: AIMA’s New Key West Delivers Power and Good Value in a Stylish Urban eBike

eBikes 2026

  • Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo 4 LTD

  • Devinci E-Spartan Lite GX AXS 12s

  • Trek Checkpoint+ SL 7 AXS

eAdventures

Test Report: Pedego’s New NextGen Element 2 Delivers on Urban and Off-Road Adventures

by Robin Richardson

October 8, 2026 - I couldn’t help but grin as I zoomed up the hill towards the lookout point, easily reaching the top without breaking a sweat. Riding the 2027 Pedego Element 2 feels like having a permanent tailwind, even uphill.

Pedego’s NextGen Element 2 brings significant improvements and is an all-rounder for cyclists who like a little of everything. ©

The Element 2 features thoughtful design choices that make this all-rounder a strong contender for cyclists who like a little of everything.

Founded in California in 2008, Pedego has built an empire of locally owned sales and service shops across North America. Backed by a five-year, 5,000-mile warranty (whichever comes first), Pedego e-bikes come in a wide range of styles, from folding bikes and cargo long tails to sleek commuters and rugged off-roaders. A recent merger with the innovative company Urtopia adds a range of technical knowhow and lightweight carbon-fibre designs to the lineup.

Pedego is currently upgrading its ecosystem to 2.0, and we had the opportunity to test ride an advance demo model of the Element 2.

A go-anywhere, do-anything e-bike that’s a lot of fun to ride. ©

The Element 2 brings significant improvements to the performance and design of the original Element Core and Pro models while maintaining their manoeuvrable size and fun-loving spirit.

Featuring internally routed cables and a sleek design, with a compact, upright frame paired with front suspension and fat tires, the Element 2 is a go-anywhere, do-anything e-bike that’s a lot of fun to ride.

The low-step frame makes it easy to mount and dismount and is comfortable for most riders from 4’11” to 6’1”. Its sturdy aluminum construction supports up to 440 pounds (200 kilograms) of rider and cargo combined, and the Shimano Acera/Altus 8-speed drivetrain offers a wide range of gearing for cruising and climbing, plus intuitive push-pull shifting.

A powerful 500W rear hub motor with 90Nm of torque. ©

A powerful 500W rear hub motor with 90Nm of torque is paired with a lockable, removable 835Wh battery integrated into the downtube. This setup works well with the step-through frame design, lowering the bike’s centre of gravity for improved balance and stability. The battery offers up to 81 miles of range and can be fully recharged in 6.5 hours.

Pedego’s new proprietary PedalSense system offers cruise and torque modes, each with three pedal-assist levels, and pairs with an integrated torque-and-cadence sensor for optimal performance.

Cruise assist provides smooth, consistent support when pedalling on a more relaxed ride, while torque assist responds directly to your effort – pedal harder and the system delivers more support. A dynamic twist throttle is also available for power on demand.

A 3.5-inch colour display and Pedego’s new proprietary PedalSense system that offers cruise and torque modes. ©

The motor is very responsive to both pedal input and the throttle, and like any new system, it takes a bit of time to get used to.

A 3.5-inch colour display is centre-mounted for ease of use and shows ride data, battery life, speed, assist mode, and more. An integrated USB-C port lets you charge a phone or camera on the go.

Pedego e-bikes use safe, reliable battery packs certified to UL 2271, and the complete system meets UL 2849, the gold standard for electrical and fire safety.

The Element 2 stops as quickly as it starts, thanks to Tektro front and rear hydraulic disc brakes. A 203mm front rotor delivers more stopping power and dissipates heat faster, while the 180mm rear rotor provides control and stability.

Front suspension fork with 75mm of travel along with knobby 4-inch fat tires that grip the road or trail. ©

The Kenda 20-inch wheels translate your effort into more RPMs for quick starts and stability; knobby 4-inch fat tires grip the road or trail, providing confidence in all conditions while cushioning you from uneven surfaces.

A front suspension fork with 75mm of travel and a padded leather comfort saddle help absorb larger bumps, while the wide, flat handlebars with vibration-dampening rubber grips provide good control on virtually any terrain.

Additional safety features include a 100 Lux handlebar-mounted headlight, a frame-mounted rear active brake light and running light, and turn signals activated by arrow buttons on the left handlebar. Pedego also includes an audio indicator because the turn signals remain on until you press the button again.

The Element 2 comes with a sturdy MIK rear rack that can carry up to 100 pounds of cargo. ©

The Element 2 comes with a sturdy MIK rear rack, securely mounted to the frame, that can carry up to 100 pounds of cargo with standard or MIK-adaptable accessories.

The bike also includes useful extras, such as a sturdy kickstand, a quick-release seat post, and ample attachment points for water bottle cages and other accessories.

Packed with features, the Element 2 is a great choice for cyclists who enjoy both urban and trail riding. Adaptable to a range of riders and uses, it’s a comfortable, capable e-bike that’s a lot of fun to ride.

The Element 2 is currently available in the United States and will arrive in Canada in Spring 2027. The MSRP is $3,295.

For more information, please visit here.

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