Closing in on a choice

[Ofarrell]

After much research and review reading and watching Ive abandoned the idea that I need a throttle and have been really leaning towards mid drives. So, my budget is 3500 Canadian (about 2700 U.S.). Ive looked at all the big brands and found so many great bikes. Bulls had one with IGH that I loved but didnt love the price. Trek seems a bit under powered for what you pay compared to other brands like Giant. Ill be honest, loved the Super Commuter 7 but it seems you can get more for what you pay. And it may seem like a small point but I really dont like that rack. Anyway, I think Ive come down to two choices. Id like to here some input. I know they have different motors and the various parts like breaks and such are different of course. Its down to the Giant Explore E 2+GTS and Momentum (Giant) Transcend E+. Ill put links below but I think the real question here is the IGH on the Momentum is likely bringing in the price up. I do like the idea of an IGH but for a the couple hundred more $$$ on the Expolore E 2.... It has me questioning if the IGH is worth it. I know Id have to add my own lights, rack and fenders to the Momentum and Im fine with that... am I just hung up on the IGH?

Explore E+ 2 GTS (2020) | Trekking bike | Giant Bicycles Canada

The new Explore E+ is engineered to help you make the most of every journey. The ALUXX aluminum frame features a step-through design, making it easier to mount and dismount while carrying bags or panniers. Its powerful ...

www.giant-bicycles.com

Transend E+ 2022 | Sleek and Powerful Electric Commuter Bike | Momentum Canada

Discover the 2022 Transend E+ by Momentum, a stylish electric commuter bike designed for city rides and daily commutes. With its SyncDrive motor and modern desi...

www.momentum-biking.com

 

[J.R.]

After much research and review reading and watching Ive abandoned the idea that I need a throttle and have been really leaning towards mid drives. So, my budget is 3500 Canadian (about 2700 U.S.). Ive looked at all the big brands and found so many great bikes. Bulls had one with IGH that I loved but didnt love the price. Trek seems a bit under powered for what you pay compared to other brands like Giant. Ill be honest, loved the Super Commuter 7 but it seems you can get more for what you pay. And it may seem like a small point but I really dont like that rack. Anyway, I think Ive come down to two choices. Id like to here some input. I know they have different motors and the various parts like breaks and such are different of course. Its down to the Giant Explore E 2+GTS and Momentum (Giant) Transcend E+. Ill put links below but I think the real question here is the IGH on the Momentum is likely bringing in the price up. I do like the idea of an IGH but for a the couple hundred more $$$ on the Expolore E 2.... It has me questioning if the IGH is worth it. I know Id have to add my own lights, rack and fenders to the Momentum and Im fine with that... am I just hung up on the IGH?

Explore E+ 2 GTS (2020) | Trekking bike | Giant Bicycles Canada

The new Explore E+ is engineered to help you make the most of every journey. The ALUXX aluminum frame features a step-through design, making it easier to mount and dismount while carrying bags or panniers. Its powerful ...

www.giant-bicycles.com

Transend E+ 2022 | Sleek and Powerful Electric Commuter Bike | Momentum Canada

Discover the 2022 Transend E+ by Momentum, a stylish electric commuter bike designed for city rides and daily commutes. With its SyncDrive motor and modern desi...

www.momentum-biking.com

Both look like good bikes. As for getting an IGH, if you are planning on riding in Ontario winters with snow and slush get the IGH. I've ridden in Pennsylvania snowy winters with studded tires, I've had standard derailleurs and they clog up quick with slush and snow. Add below freezing temps and they can turn to a block of ice. Makes it difficult to shift gears. Other than that I don't have issues with standard derailleurs.

 

[Dewey]

I like the IGH on my commuter because I can change gear when stopped at a light. But the more powerful motor, larger battery, suspension fork, better display, quick release wheels, rack, fenders and lights, on the Explore E+2 would appeal more. Can you test ride both?

 

[Ofarrell]

@J.R. I dont really plan on riding much after the snow begins. The cold and the arthritis affects my hands quite a lot. Right now our roads are so covered in salt, brine and muck I wouldnt want to clean anything after a ride in that. I like the idea of an IGH but given the price of the two bikes I think the Giant holds more value.

@Dewey sadly no. The momentum has to be ordered in. The Giant I can. My local shop is a Giant dealer so I hope to go down next week... weather permuting. We just got hit with a lot of snow.

 

[Dewey]

@DeweyMy local shop is a Giant dealer so I hope to go down next week... weather permuting. We just got hit with a lot of snow.

Sorry, hope you can get help digging out. Post here your thoughts after your test ride. My favorite local bike shop also is a Giant dealer but here in the US we don't get the Explore E+2 GTS only the E+4 model which has been downgraded with the smaller EnergyPak 400 battery, basic RideControlOne display, and doesn't have all the useful commuting accessories, it uses the same motor so if you want to watch a video the Giant Explore E+4 was reviewed on this site last fall. A close competitor with the Explore model is the Yamaha Power Assist bicycles YPJ-TC sold in the US as the Cross Connect, while the Explore has wider tires and a wider range cassette the Yamaha has a transferrable warranty, you can see a comparison here https://electricbikereview.com/compare/items/134554,143431.

 

[AlanDB]

I love the IGH (Shimano Nexus 8) on my Gazelle Arroyo. Take a look at the Gazelle offerings. They are somewhat above your price point, but you may be able to find a discounted 2019 or even 2018 model.

 

[Ofarrell]

@AlanDB Thanks for the recommendation. It seems tho that Gazelle isnt that common in Canada.... at least not to see in person. But that being said they only have one high step model which more like a cruiser. The mid steps looked okay but no IGH on those. Interesting company and products tho. I like that they throw a cafe lock on there