ESTARLI E20.8 PLAY

This competitively priced ebike has plenty to offer

- David Motton

Electric bikes are handy on tour. Whether it’s nipping to the village shop or cycling to the beach, an ebike is a convenient way to get around. A good ebike isn’t cheap, though. A new Brompton folder will set you back at least £2995, while the GoCycle range starts from £3399. There are much cheaper options, but quality can be questionable.

British brand estarli splits the difference between high-end ebikes and the cheap, sometimes cheerless end of the market. The firm promises quality machines at relatively affordable prices, with a range of folding and non-folding ebikes starting from the £1095 mark.

That buys you the e16, with 16-inch wheels and a single gear. We’ve been riding the £1850 e20.8 Play, which comes with 20-inch wheels and eight gears.