Are Electric Bikes Loud? The Truth Revealed

Electric bikes are quickly becoming a top choice for commuters, leisure riders, and eco-conscious travellers across the UK. With their growing popularity, one common question we hear is: “Are electric bikes noisy?”

As one of the UK’s leading electric bike retailers - and passionate e-bike riders ourselves – we’re here to reveal the facts. In this guide, we explore how loud electric bikes really are, what causes any noise, and which models offer the quietest ride.

Are Electric Bikes Loud? Here's What to Expect

In short - no, electric bikes are not loud. But they’re not completely silent either.

Like all bicycles, e-bikes produce some noise from the chain, pedals, brakes, and tyres. This is normal, and varies depending on the model, style, and how well the bike is maintained.

The key difference? The motor. When the pedal assist engages, you will hear a hum – but thanks to modern technology, most electric bike motors are extremely quiet. In fact, many riders (and pedestrians nearby) barely notice the sound at all.

From folding electric bikes to hybrid commuters, the models in our e-bike range are built with high-quality, low-noise motors designed for smooth, near-silent performance. So while no bike is totally silent, you’ll be hard-pressed to call a well-built e-bike “loud.”

Types of Electric Bike Motors and Their Noise Levels

When it comes to electric bike motors, the two most common types are crank drive motors and hub motors - each with its own benefits and sound profile.

1. Crank Drive Motors

First introduced in the 1990s, crank drive motors - commonly referred to as mid-drive motors - are positioned at the centre of the bike, near the pedals. They deliver power through the drivetrain, providing a natural riding feel and excellent performance, especially on hills.

These motors are typically quiet and efficient, though some riders find they can become slightly louder over time due to wear. Regular maintenance helps keep noise levels down and ensures optimal performance.

Explore our full range of mid-drive e-bikes here to find models that combine power, efficiency, and smooth handling.

2. Hub Motors

Hub motors sit inside the front or rear wheel hub. This setup keeps the motor separate from the drivetrain, making it easier to remove or repair.

While hub motors may produce slightly more noise than crank drives, it's usually minimal - certainly not enough to disturb your ride. They’re still considered a low-noise electric bike motor option, especially in well-made models.

How to Quieten a Noisy Electric Bike

While e-bike motors do produce some sound, excessive or unusual noise shouldn’t be ignored. If your electric bike sounds louder than usual, it’s worth having it checked by a specialist.

That said, no bike is completely silent - moving parts like the brakes, chain, and drivetrain all contribute some level of noise. But with a little maintenance, you can often quieten things down significantly.

We’ve put together an e-bike maintenance guide, but here are a few key tips:

1. Check Your Brakes

Squeaky brakes are often caused by dirt, oil, or misalignment. Clean your rotors regularly using a disc brake cleaner, and ensure everything is properly aligned. In some cases, you may need to replace the pads.

2. Lubricate the Chain

A squeaky chain is a common culprit. Make sure it’s properly cleaned and lubricated with a quality bike-specific chain oil. Dry or dirty chains can cause constant squeaking and add to the overall noise.

3. Inspect the Motor

If the motor sounds unusually loud, it could indicate a deeper issue. While some hum is normal, grinding or whining may signal a fault – in which case, visit a bike technician for diagnosis.

Regular maintenance is key to a quieter, smoother electric bike ride. And if in doubt, your local bike shop can help with cleaning, repairs, or upgrades.

Want to Know If an Electric Bike Is Loud? Just Ask

If you're considering buying an electric bike but unsure about how loud the motor is, we’re here to help.

At Bike Yard Online, our team of electric bike specialists works closely with top manufacturers, so we can give you honest, detailed answers about motor noise, ride quality, and overall performance.

Whether you have questions about a specific model’s noise level or just want expert buying advice, get in touch via phone, email, or live chat.

Contact Us – we're always happy to help you find a quiet electric bike that suits your needs.

Explore Our Range of UK Electric Bikes

At Bike Yard Online, we're proud to offer one of the best selections of electric bikes online in the UK – from trusted, top-rated British brands known for quality and performance.

As authorised dealers, we supply only genuine models and provide full manufacturer warranties on every order, giving you complete peace of mind with your purchase.

Whether you're after a folding e-bike for commuting, an electric mountain bike for off-road adventures, or a classic step-through model, we’ve got something for every rider and every budget.

Browse our full range of electric bike, please click here.