HOVSCO HovAlpha

What the HOVSCO HovAlpha is built for

The HOVSCO HovAlpha is a commuter e-bike, built for daily rides to work, errands and city streets.

It has a 1,300 W (1,300 W peak) hub motor, 90 Nm of torque and a top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h).

It carries a 960 Wh battery and a stated range of up to 80 miles (129 km) on a charge. Real-world range is usually lower than the rated figure: it falls with throttle use, hills, cold weather, rider weight and higher assist levels.

The HOVSCO HovAlpha weighs 73 lb (33 kg), carries up to 450 lb (204 kg) including the rider, has front suspension and uses a torque sensor, so the motor responds to how hard you pedal.

In the United States the HOVSCO HovAlpha sells for $1,499, close to the median of $1,499 across 230 commuter e-bikes with a US price. That is $2 per watt-hour of battery.

Where the HOVSCO HovAlpha may be ridden

In the European Union and the United Kingdom an e-bike counts as a bicycle only within the pedelec limits; as specified, its 1,300 W motor is above the 250 W limit, its 28 mph (45 km/h) top speed is above the 25 km/h at which assistance must stop and its throttle moves it without pedalling, which the pedelec rules allow only as start-up help at walking pace. A model above those limits is treated as a moped there, with type approval, registration and insurance, unless the brand sells a version set to the European limits.

HOVSCO HovAlpha safety certification

The brand's listing for the HOVSCO HovAlpha does not state a UL 2849 or EN 15194 certification. New York City allows only e-bikes certified to UL 2849 to be sold or rented there, and California requires certified batteries from 2026; ask the seller for the certificate before buying.