Gotrax Shift S1 - one speed, not a good thing

[woodruff13]

Bought the Shift S1, some good video reviews. I'm really disappointed.

It has only one speed, i.e., fixed ratio from crank to wheel. So too hard to peddle going up a hill, flat or downhill, the crank spins too fast.

I like the weight, some compromises are OK for price, but the lack of any change in the gearing makes this bike useless.

 

[woodruff13]

And.. the front hub motor really dicey. I found myself spinning the front wheel when getting going, the weight was mostly on the back (of course). So, two design issues I see w/ this (and any similiar ebike).

1. fixed gearing really limits application.
2. Front hub motors are not stable when starting out.

I've got a Blix from 3 years ago, was looking for something more portable. I'm still looking.

 

[indianajo]

And.. the front hub motor really dicey. I found myself spinning the front wheel when getting going, the weight was mostly on the back (of course). So, two design issues I see w/ this (and any similiar ebike).
2. Front hub motors are not stable when starting out.

Mount a basket on the handlebar & keep your water tire tools and security chain in there. I have my battery mounted up front & I don't have any trouble with the front hub motor slipping.
Once warrenty is over, you could buy a 7 speed kids bike at the charity resale shop or flea market & upgrade this bike. No sense throwing a new frame away. Throw away an old one. I bought a used bike for $7 one time for the seat. SA puts things on half price if they are over a month old.