REI is one of the standout brands when it comes to outdoor sports and gear, often getting lots of commendation for its aesthetic designs and user-centered approach to products. The company has built a solid reputation for selling quality gear and backing it with reliable service.
But how does that translate to electric bikes? With varying opinions from loyal fans as well as newcomers via online forums on whether REI ebikes are really worth the price, this REI ebike review seeks to cut through the fluff, break down what REI offers and the value you will be getting for your money. We will also be discussing which alternatives might suit you better.
What Type of Ebike Models Does REI Sell?
REI is very deliberate about the selection of ebikes it offers. Whether you are purchasing online or from physical stores, you will immediately see a curated lineup of brands that have a solid reputation of being reliable, versatile and able to deliver on commuting, gravel rides, and mountain biking. Let’s dive straight in to see some of the models in the REI electric bike catalogue.
Brand/Model | Price (USD) | Key Features |
Cannondale Adventure Neo Allroad EQ |
| |
Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2 |
| |
Salsa Notch 160 CUES 10 Electric Mountain Bike |
| |
Electra Townie Go! 7D EQ Step-Thru |
| |
Tern Quick Haul P9 |
| |
Benno 46er 10D EVO1 |
|
Pros of Buying Your Ebike from REI
Free Professional Assembly and Expert Support
The biggest advantage that our REI ebike review must first mention is the access to expert support and the overall efficient ecosystem you will have access to after you swipe your card.
REI electric bikes are expertly assembled by professionally trained technicians at no extra cost once you purchase them. These technicians often have vast years of experience, and the wealth of knowledge they possess helps leave little margin for error, which is crucial, especially with ebikes, where the setup can be complicated by motors, batteries, and sensors.
Another huge benefit you will be getting is a full year of free adjustments and free flat tire repairs for Co-op members. The REI bike maintenance covers things like brake tuning, shifting tweaks, wheel truing and 20% off shop services. This can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars for riders if done elsewhere, which is why this is such a huge plus.
The value is extended by the fact that you can easily find REI bike shops across the country. This helps you move or travel as much as you like with the assurance that you will find support whenever you need it — only a few brands can offer that kind of safety net.
Strong Return Policy and Peace of Mind
REI is famous for its satisfaction guarantee, and ebikes fall under that umbrella. You have up to one year to return a bike if it doesn’t work for you, as long as you bring it back to a store with proof of purchase. That’s far more generous than most retailers.
There’s one catch: you can’t ship a return. Bikes have to be brought back in person, which makes sense given their size and value. But still, it’s hard to beat the peace of mind of a full-year test ride.
REI Ebike Pricing and Member Perks
This is where opinions split. REI doesn’t price-match, and its ebikes can cost a bit more than similar models from direct-to-consumer brands. But the difference isn’t wasted money. You’re paying for verified assembly, quality control, ongoing adjustments, and the option to walk into a store if anything goes wrong.
The brand also runs periodic REI ebike sales and clearance events, which can knock a few hundred dollars off higher-end models if you catch the timing right. And if you’re a member, the deal gets sweeter; you earn about 10% back in annual dividends on eligible purchases. That alone can make a $2,500 bike feel closer to $2,250 when the dividend hits your account.
In short, REI’s biggest strengths aren’t flashy discounts; they’re reliability and support. From free assembly to extended warranties and nationwide service, you get a buying experience designed for peace of mind, not buyer’s remorse.
Cons of Buying Your Ebike from REI
Higher Prices Than Online or Direct-to-Consumer Brands
Although there are lots of advantages you stand to gain when you purchase REI ebikes, one of the major drawbacks is the price tag. You’ll often pay a few hundred dollars more compared to brands like Rad Power, Aventon, or Lectric. The difference is as a result of the fact that REI runs physical stores, offers in-person service and handles returns locally.
For some buyers, that added cost feels justified. For others, especially those comfortable doing their own assembly or repairs, it’s money better saved. If price is your top priority, direct-to-consumer brands will likely beat REI’s electric bike pricing.
Limited Model Selection
REI has only a carefully curated list of ebikes within its catalog. If you are looking for popular direct-to-consumer models from brands like Rad Power or Aventon, you won’t find them within the REI ebike selection.
A small range that includes reliable names like Cannondale, Co-op Cycles, and Electra is what you will find within REI’s curated selection of electric bikes. This helps with maintaining an efficient ecosystem that ensures it is able to uphold warranty claims and provide quality repair or replacement for the products within its selection.
However, the small range limits buyers in terms of those looking for ebikes that cater to specific needs. For example, those with needs for fat-tire adventure bikes or budget commuters will be at a disadvantage with REI’s ebike selection.
REI’s outlook on the electric bike market is “quality over quantity”. While this works for many shoppers, those looking for variety or niche performance will experience a setback.
Returns Must Be Made In Person
Although REI has a generous return policy that extends over a period of 12 months, it comes with a catch, which is that you can’t mail a bike back. Returns have to be made in person by taking it to a REI store.
If you live near an REI, this shouldn’t be a problem, but if you are purchasing online or living out of state, you might experience difficulties with the logistics of having to take it to an REI yourself.
This is a crucial factor to keep in mind before ordering.
Limited Diagnostic Capabilities
REI’s mechanics are well-experienced and capable of handling minimal to moderate repairs efficiently, but critical cases that require advanced ebike diagnostics might not get the required solution at every REI store. Some models with proprietary motors or software may need factory-level servicing.
In such cases, REI’s solution will be to refer you to the manufacturer or one of the authorized shops they have partnered with.
While this is worth knowing before you buy, it is important to note that this is not an issue that is only peculiar to REI, but pervades across the ebike industry.
Top Alternatives to REI Ebikes
Rad Power Bikes — Direct Value and Variety
Rad Power Bikes presents you with a much wider variety of ebikes at cheaper prices. The brand is able to offer more affordable deals by cutting out retailer costs, which means you get to save more. You will find good deals for models like RadCity 5 Plus and RadRunner 3 Plus at prices below hundreds of dollars, which is cheaper than the options provided by REI.
The downside is that you will have to assemble it yourself and depend on Rad’s local partners or mobile repair vans in select cities for maintenance or repair. Still, Rad Power’s reputation for accessible pricing and dependable motors makes it a strong REI alternative.
Aventon — Stylish and Solid Mid-Range Options
Aventon balances price, performance, and polish. Its Level.3 and Pace 500.3 models feature clean designs, integrated lights, and smooth torque sensors, which are features you’ll find on REI’s higher-end bikes for less money.
Aventon ebikes can be easily purchased from local dealers in many cities. This helps you in case you want to test ride bikes or receive servicing. Whether you are looking for a refined commuter or leisure bike without wanting to pay REI prices, Aventon ebikes are hard to ignore.
Lectric — Budget Performance for Everyday Riders
If affordability matters most, Lectric is tough to beat. Its XP 3.0 folding model costs well under $1,500 but still includes a 500W motor, fat tires, and a throttle for quick acceleration.
You won’t get REI’s in-person service or return policy, but Lectric’s customer support is solid and shipping is free in the U.S. For first-time ebike buyers testing the waters, Lectric delivers more performance per dollar than almost anyone else.
Local Bike Shops — Hands-On Support and Custom Fit
Don’t overlook local ebike shops. From brands like Specialized to Giant and Trek, you’ll get to see a wide variety of ebikes with models that come with great features. An added advantage is that you get to build relationships with mechanics who know your bike.
Prices might not be so different from REI’s offerings when you consider that you also get benefits like assembly, in-house maintenance, servicing and opportunities for test rides.
For riders who value trust and local expertise, a hometown shop can match REI’s service edge while offering more specialized gear.
Are REI Electric Bikes Worth It?
If you’re asking whether REI is the right place to buy your ebike, the answer to that question will depend on what matters most to you.
If what you value the most is a brand that gives you maximum support backed by a solid warranty, REI edges on this front. You get access to free assembly, free adjustments for a year, member perks and mechanics that you can actually talk to. For many riders, especially new ebike buyers looking for guidance, that kind of safety net is priceless.
If you prioritise variety and cheaper options, you are more likely to get better deals from direct-to-consumer brands like Rad Power, Aventon or Lectric. Although this would mean you are trading a much more supportive electric bike ecosystem for savings.
For most riders, especially first-time buyers, REI hits the middle ground; not the cheapest, but easily one of the most dependable ways to get started with an electric bike.