Even ones up to $1K lack enough torque for long grades or steep hills on motor only. How much should one expect to pay for a quality ebike with at least 85 newton-meters of torque?

I live in central Iowa near Des Moines. Nakto has a nice cargo bike, F4 model, for about a grand but it seems to sorely lack uphill torque. Also lacks seat height adjustment.


I am age 61, 325 pounds and have a German Shepherd dog I want to lead on leash. My ideal electric bicycle should ride well at low speeds under motor only or pedal assist. It should pull any grade in Polk County, Iowa on paved streets or bike trails. I would like at least 20 miles on a single charge on hilly terrain. I want an ebike on a frame designed originally for e-biking. Not a standard bicycle converted. I want a fat cruiser seat and taller apehangers or cruiser-style handlebars. Not a mountain bike. I want a comfortable street bike to pull those grades. I like the idea of cargo racks and baskets but I need to clamp on one of those dog rods to lead my dog. I have asthma and obesity. I need reliable motor assist until I get into better shape. I don't want to spend over $3K. Are the prices progressively coming down on better quality ebikes with gobs of hill-climbing torque? I don't need a fast bike, a slower bike will do for dog exercising but I need to make the serious grades without suffering a heart attack.

To make the long short, I want a comfortable, torky, well-built, reliable utilitarian ebike of a reputable trademark with excellent support from the manufacturer geared for heavy loads AND NOT FOR DEMONIC SPEEDS on flats. I like the name Cannondale but they don't seem to make torky and comfortable city e bikes with high newton-meter ratings.

Please make suggestions. Thanks.

Is this something I will have to custom build?