This is a quick review of the Diamondback Overdrive EXC electric bike from a newb’s perspective. I’m new to ebikes and have only had a limited time test-riding various mid-drive bikes currently available, so you may take that into consideration. I’ve test-ridden the Raleigh Misceo iE, the 2014 iZip Peak, and Haibike Xduro RX 29er and the Haibike Xduro Treckking RX and these are the bikes that I would use as a reference.
Right off the bat, the Diamondback feels a lot like the iZip Peak. In fact, as far as the e-power components go, I’m guessing the two bikes are identical as some of you have mentioned. They appear to have the same controls and display. The Diamondback Overdrive EXC is based on the Diamondback Overdrive line of mountain bikes, which seems to be a popular, well regarded “value” line. Without power assist, the Overdrive handles well and feels like a good balance between maneuverability and straight line stability. I like the hydraulic brakes. Shifting between gears is fine – on par with other bicycles in the $500 price range.
With the assist turned on, it takes about a second for the power to kick in when you start to pedal, but when it does come on, especially in the highest assist mode, you really feel it. Compared to the Haibikes and the Raleigh, it feels more powerful, though it may just be that the TranzX system doesn’t modulate the power as well. On the other hand, the Haibikes and Raleigh are much quicker to respond to pedal input. I could see how the delay could be seen as either bothersome or as a kind of feature. You won’t dart off from the unexpected rush of power, but if you need the power “right now” you may feel let down a bit.
I’ve read how shifting on the TranzX powered bikes can cause gear mashing, but I found that if I just stopped pedaling for a moment, shifting was as smooth as a non-motorized bike. But the Raleigh and the Haibikes definitely have the edge here since you don’t have to really think about how you shift. You just do it. This is especially true of the Raleigh which has an electronic shift system that is butter smooth. To shift the Raleigh, you press a button on the right side of the handlebar. It also shifts to a lower gear automatically when you come to a stop. That’s convenient!
Despite the rough edges, I like the Overdrive EXC especially considering that you can find it at a discount from Performance Bicycles and REI. It is one of the least expensive mid-drive bikes available when purchased from these sources. In addition, this bike will provide power assist up to 28 mph. It isn’t as smooth as the Haibikes and the Raleigh, nor does it have some of the nicer features like the removable display on the Haibike or the slick shifting of the Raleigh, but the price difference may make it worthwhile trade-off. Plus, the Overdrive EXC includes a throttle which will get you moving up to 6 mph without pedaling. The Throttle can also provide extra power while pedaling with assist for speeds up to 20 mph.
The other thing to consider is that the Haibikes and the Raleigh I tested only assist up to 20 mph. I understand that you can pedal without assist beyond the 20 mph limit but I found that the loss of power assist at 20 mph was annoying. Just when things are getting interesting, the assist disappears. I may not ride at speeds above 20 mph all that often, but I’d like to have that capability when I need it.
