Bulls Cross Lite, Cube Access or...?

[bikesforbacks]

I'm making the switch to an ebike after an MS flareup means I can't get up hills well anymore; I live in Seattle, so that doesn't exactly work for me! I've noticed that bikes with more forward positions (drop bars and even flats that are the same level as the seat) really aggravate a tight QL muscle in my lower back to the point where I can't keep riding. So priorities for me: hill-climbing, back-friendly, and good battery life.

I've been test riding at a few places and so far, the two models I like most are the Bulls Cross Lite E and the Cube Access Pro. I never thought I'd consider a hardtail bike since most of my rides are commutes and long road rides, but it's dang comfortable. Anyone out there have either of these bikes? I'd love your feedback if so — or if there's another bike I should consider, I'm all ears! TIA

 

[Bruce Arnold]

The Pedego City Commuter has an upright position and an adjustable headset. Pricey. Great customer service. Fairly good torque for those hills.

 

[Trail Cruiser]

Most of the ebikes I bought were forward riding position (long handlebar reach and aggressive stance) except for one that has the adjustable stem but still not comfortable enough for me. So on all of therm, I replaced the handlebar with the relaxed position

and also changed the stem to an extra short stem.

and added a stem riser.

 

[bikesforbacks]

Thanks!

 

[Trail Cruiser]

It doesn't matter what ebike you choose as long as you can set it in a way the you are comfortably upright and have some form of seat suspension plus comfortable seat.

I used body float but it's a little pricey at $250.

but you can also use the more affordable telescoping seat post as long as it is paired to a

spring saddle.

Other people are happy with the mid level suspension post like the thud buster or the NCX.

 

[TrevorB]

For more up right ride try the step through city bikes. They are design for comfort first performance second, motor overcomes performance issues.
In most cases you would want to upgrade suspension seatpost, see above posts.

 

[JLK]

I'm making the switch to an ebike after an MS flareup means I can't get up hills well anymore; I live in Seattle, so that doesn't exactly work for me! I've noticed that bikes with more forward positions (drop bars and even flats that are the same level as the seat) really aggravate a tight QL muscle in my lower back to the point where I can't keep riding. So priorities for me: hill-climbing, back-friendly, and good battery life.

I've been test riding at a few places and so far, the two models I like most are the Bulls Cross Lite E and the Cube Access Pro. I never thought I'd consider a hardtail bike since most of my rides are commutes and long road rides, but it's dang comfortable. Anyone out there have either of these bikes? I'd love your feedback if so — or if there's another bike I should consider, I'm all ears! TIA

What did you end up getting? I'm looking at the Cube Access Pro as a first ebike for some of the same reasons (PNW hills, back issues) curious if that's what you ended up buying. Also, thank you Trail Cruiser for the info on comfort accessories.

 

[Toomanycats]

I have back problems and Propel bike shop set up my Raleigh Lore for me like this: Higher stem, swept back handlebars, and Terry Women’s touring saddle (designed for more upright ride). I’m very happy with it. The Lore has gone up $500 in price recently, but is still a great deal.