What is the most reliable, cost effective, electric bike on the market today?

I really like the Schwinn electric bikes (Continental etc), but I was wondering if someone knew of a cheaper alternative. I don't think I want the SLA battery packs. I would like a smaller and lighter alternative and have a decent range (20 miles or more). I would even consider doing a bike conversion if I could have newer lighter equipment

Try just a regular bike. Electric bikes are harder to transport, maintain, and still cost money to operate. If you get into shape they aren't much faster than a regular bicycle.

Probably a Vespa.

Have you seen the izip bikes? http://www.izipusa.com
Ed Begley, Jr has one. There are a lot of different styles to choose from. I like the ones that have the motor and batteries hidden in the frame, so they look more like a regular bicycle. I enjoy regular bikes, but I think I could ride longer distances or have higher average speeds if I had a little help on the hills. On the other hand, I don't want to have to pedal 30 miles home on a bike that weighs 80lbs and has dead batteries. I wish they made a bike that weighed less and/or could recharge itself when the motor is not in use, such as descending a hill.

If you're looking for a cheaper electric bike, you're probably going to have to go with an SLA battery. Not too long ago I bought an E-Zip Mountain Traliz electric bike, which goes up to 18 mph and realistically 13 miles per charge for just $350.

Currie Technologies makes the E-Zip and iZip lines of electric bikes. The E-Zip are the cheapest you can find, and iZip are a bit higher quality and a bit pricier. Check them out here:

http://www.currietech.com/html/schwinnCa...