Unless you happen to be one of the fortunate few who work from home, you’re most likely feeling the crunch of rising gas prices. Even those who do work from home must make the occasional road trip, which can cost a vital organ or two. Thankfully, the electric bicycle represents an economical alternative to force-feeding dollars into a hungry car, and, though e-bikes can often cost big-bucks, here’s a roundup of 5 great bikes that won’t break the bank.

Mountain Trailz Electric Bicycle, Model# EZ-MT8-BL by E-Zip (pictured above)
•    Motor: 450-watt, DC brushed Earth magnet motor
•    Battery: 24-volt, 10Ah, EV-rated, SLA-type, rear rack-mounted
•    Drive: Currie Electro-Drive System, Shimano rear derailleur, SRAM grip shift
•    Speed: Up to 15 miles per hour (240 lb. maximum)
•    Range: Up to 20 miles, depending on rider weight and terrain
•    Price: On-line prices vary between $300 and $650

Izip Via Lento Mens Electric Bicycle by Currie Technologies (above)
•    Speed: 15 mph
•    Range: 15-20 miles
•    Battery: SLA Battery pack, easily removable
•    Drive: Currie Electro-drive system
•    Price: $899 (manufacturer), $699.99 (Amazon)

The Rebel Electric Bike by Switch (above)
•    Battery: 36V-10Ah Lithium-ion rechargeable battery
•    Speed: up to 15 mph, 230 lb. weight limit, 7-speed
•    Range: up to 22 miles
•    Weight: 61.6 lbs.
•    Price: $885.85 (Amazon)

Eneloop Electric Bicycle Bike CY-SPA600NA by Sanyo (above)
•    Drive: 250 Watt Motor
•    Battery: 25.2 volt, 5.7 Ah lithium-ion rechargeable
•    Speed: 6.2-15 mph
•    Brake Charge system: Battery will recharge when rear brake is applied
•    Auto Mode: Bike automatically adjusts power to environmental terrain
•    Power Mode: Give greater assistance for inclines
•    Price: $1,198 (Amazon)

Kyoto Electric Bicycle by EG bike (above)
• Drive: 24 Volt, 200 Watt electric motor
• Battery: removable 24 volt, 10AH Lithium-ion
• Speed: 20 mph using motor unassisted
• Range: 40 miles per charge
• Price: $999 (Amazon)