Help selecting an Ebike for commuting

[Jestyr]

Im looking into purchasing a new ebike for commuting, and Id like some advice or recommendations. Im kind of a newbie to buying nicer bicycles, and the shops in my area dont carry much in the way of ebikes for me to look at - they can order and adjust, but not many options locally for a test ride.

Im 6'1" tall, so the smaller framed bikes tend to feel small for me, even when seat and handlebars are adjusted. I suppose I like slightly larger frames - my 19inch regular bike is a bit small for me, but manageable.

Regarding class of bike, ideally it would have both throttle and pedal assist. Top speed isnt super important to me, so class 1 is about the same as class 3 for me, but I do want it to be both throttle or boost capable as well as pedal assist capable.

My budget is generous, but not infinite, so anything under about $4500 is doable although Id be happy to save money if a lower price model meets my needs.

Id love one with fenders and a rack for panniers, riding upright isnt necessary, my current bike is more aggressive in posture.


I like the Bulls EvoE-8, but it doesnt come with a throttle mode, so Im ruling it out. The Izip Protour looks good as well (the review on this site says it can have a throttle, but I am having trouble confirming via the izip website - can anyone confirm?), but the izip has a 19 inch frame size. Any thoughts on if that would be OK for me? Also, the rack on the izip looks small - will it hold panniers well? Any recommendations or advice? Im open to looking at any bike you recommend.

Thanks,

John

 

[Ravi Kempaiah]

(the review on this site says it can have a throttle, but I am having trouble confirming via the izip website - can anyone confirm?)

Yes, the previous Izip models had an option add "Boost" button pad and it's their way of making throttle for those who prefer.
Take a look at this pic:



I suggest test riding some models before getting one. Your nearest Trek, Giant or Specialized dealer might be able to order some for you. Depending on where you live, you could also attend some ebike expo.
For what you're looking (PAS + throttle), Easy Motion EVO City (Large) would fit very well. Juiced Cross Current in XL frame would be another choice.

You could activate throttle on some of the Stromers as well (ST1 series)

 

[Dewey]

For what you're looking (PAS + throttle), Easy Motion EVO City (Large) would fit very well. Juiced Cross Current in XL frame would be another choice.

According to Court's review the Easy Motion Evo City throttle works only in pedal assist level zero so you would need to use the thumb pad to turn down the PAS before you could use the throttle. I don't think that's true for other ebikes using the Dapu hub motor like the Pedego City Commuter as Court's review mentioned he could twist the throttle to over-ride the PAS. The Izip/Raleigh boost button looks like a simple on/off switch so it doesn't look like you can hold the speed as with a twist or thumb throttle. I think all the current ebikes from Trek, Specialized or Giant are pedal assist with no throttle.

I would avoid the upcoming Juiced Cross Current S until the speed limit issue is resolved. The spec sheet for the new batch Cross Current S model lists an "off road mode" unlimited motor setting and "user configurable" speed settings in the LCD display. A (Link Removed - No Longer Exists) shot in China demonstrates >30mph performance, which falls outside both the federal CPSC and California 3-class e-bike definition, and is a motorcycle. Unless there is a VIN # an e-bike cannot be registered or insured as a motorcycle. Juiced should not attempt to sell these as an e-bike as currently specced.

 

[Ken S]

I would recommend the Ohm Xu700.

I've been commuting on Ohm's XU700 for more than two and a half years now with almost 36,000 kms on 2 bikes. Why 2 bikes, -I recently upgraded to the latest 2017 model after 32,500 kms on the 2014 model. I

'm 6' 4" and my Ohm with a 22.5 " frame and the Bionx D500 is the perfect commuter bike in all weather other than icy/snow covered roads. Low wear and maintenance compared to the mid drive systems for sure, torque sense assist (makes you feel like you're an Olympic athlete, throttle for up hill starts and when you forget to gear down at a light, and regen which makes for a great engine brake down steep hills, or if the wind is on your back extending travel distance, -if over 100 km at an average of 25 km/hour is not enough. The new remote and display on the D500 are fantastic but even if you can get an older one the performance is the same.