New Commuter needs help

[Southpaw]

Hey guys,

I'm new to bike riding and am looking to convert full time to bike commuting. My normal trek to work is only around 8 miles one way with very flat terrain(only one incline to climb) I'm a big guy 6 ft 220 , and it doesn't seem as if most of these frames would fit very well.

Are there any bikes with the sporty frames that I could fit? My budget is a ~3000 though would pay a bit more for the right one.


Thanks,

 

[Brambor]

get the stromer st1

 

[lilrich1959]

Specs and research aside the best way to find the "right" bike is to try them out. You did not mention what area of the country you are in but the number of dealers is growing daily. For larger riders the Stromer is certainly a good choice, but Easy Motion and Currie (IZIP and Haibike) also offer quality bikes that will do well for regular commuting.

Nothing can beat first hand experience for finding the bike that is just right. Most makes offer different size frames for most models if your local dealer has a limited selection of models or sizes feel free to ask if they can order in what you need. As many of the members here can attest ebikes are much more than a machine and become like a member of the family, except you can choose them like a close friend. Choose well and your friend will serve you well providing not only dependable transportation but delivering a sense of freedom and enjoyment that you may have not experienced since childhood. Good luck in your search and welcome to the forum. Peace

 

[Tom]

Hey guys,

I'm new to bike riding and am looking to convert full time to bike commuting. My normal trek to work is only around 8 miles one way with very flat terrain(only one incline to climb) I'm a big guy 6 ft 220 , and it doesn't seem as if most of these frames would fit very well.

Are there any bikes with the sporty frames that I could fit? My budget is a ~3000 though would pay a bit more for the right one.


Thanks,

Southpaw,

I'm looking for my first ebike as well. After reading this forum for awhile I have learned very much concerning electric bikes. Thanks to everyone who is on here. As you can see the information can be overwhelming. My first suggestion is to read as much as you can and ask lots of questions if needed. I agree that you must try as many ebikes as you can. You will know when you find the right one. By no means am I a bike expert so I'm looking for dependability and reliability.

The first bike I really enjoyed was the Izip Dash. It was a blast to ride. In the price range I wanted as well. Then I rode the Felt sporte and for $1400 to $1500 more you can tell the difference. For me, it was awesome. I have gone back and forth on Easy Motion bikes. What appeals to me the most is they have an outstanding warranty. Five years on the bike and two on the battery. The great warranty helps me justify the cost of the bike. I don't want the ebike to become a money pit. Gives a person the peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. In any case, once you find your bike ask if you can rent it and ride it in your area for a day or more. See if it really fits your needs. Hope this helps and good luck in finding your bike. Tom

 

[Paul E.]

To me it seems like "nice" ebikes now start at $3000. My requirements happen to be pretty close to yours (except a little more incline, 10 miles one way, 200 lb) and I ordered a 2015 iZip Dash based on specs and reviews. You're lucky if you get to test ride first. I'll hopefully see in about a week how it works out

 

[Admin]

Hi @Southpaw! I agree with @Brambor that the Stromer electric bikes can work very well for larger people and have that sporty aesthetic you might be aiming for. The IZIP Dash also comes in a larger frame and I've had good luck with Pedego Interceptors being large and powerful (though less sporty and less well balanced). For an additional ~$700 you could upgrade to a Bosch mid-drive system and get the Grace MX II Trail (they also have an Urban but it costs a bit more). This drive system is very responsive, durable and capable in terms of power and efficiency. You can easily get 40+ miles out of one pack (I've gotten closer to 60 myself but I weigh 130lbs).

Feel free to chime in with any more questions about bikes you see on the site and add more detail about your needs etc. Whatever you end up with I hope it works well and would love to hear about your experiences with it!

 

[Brambor]

The Stromer ST1 that won the bike of the year at interbike, that normally sells for 4000 is now available for 2300 plus extra accessories (as posted on this site). What in this price range and quality could really compete?

 

[JoePah]

Stromer is a great choice but it is very heavy by today standards, at 62 lbs.. If you're a larger rider this might not be an issue.

If I were shopping today (just boought a Stromer in January), I'd look for something closer to 45 lbs.

 

[Brambor]

sure I understand. I have to lift wife's Stromer onto the roof but would you accept lesser bike for the money only because it was lighter? ...cause I don't see another deal out there right now that equals that.

 

[Southpaw]

Thanks a lot for the responses guys, but I live in Memphis and there isn't an authorized dealer here. Is it available to order online?

 

[Southpaw]

Also, what do you guys think of the Motiv Shadow and Evelo Aries? Both look fantastic and the Shadow is fast. The Stromer has impeccable reviews, so if the price is right and I can actually buy it, i'll go with that.

 

[JoePah]

I'm pretty much a broken record so feel free to ignore me!

Within a reasonable driving distance, what ebike retailers are near you? What do they sell?

I've owned two e bikes and one was a constant guest at ebike retailers, and the other, the stromer just needed one visit... Nothing like having your warranty work done by the guy who sold it to you.

I would hit up your local retailers and get the best bike you can afford.

 

[Brambor]

I like the Motiv shadow. On paper its does not stack up to the stromer but if it feels right to you testing and the price is right then it is good to have LBS near you when things go wrong. And they will with just about any ebike if you use it a lot.

 

[Tom]

Also, what do you guys think of the Motiv Shadow and Evelo Aries? Both look fantastic and the Shadow is fast. The Stromer has impeccable reviews, so if the price is right and I can actually buy it, i'll go with that.

Southpaw,
Still think it would be great if you can try the bike out first. I personally couldn't buy anything without trying it. Do you have any vacations coming up? Could you travel to a city cheaply, (Bolt bus, Train, Southwest Air, hitch a ride through craigslist). Please be patient, this is a big purchase, see what your return policy is, and ease of repair service. Maybe contact the bike company that you are interested in and see if anyone is planning opening an outlet near you. I would hate to see you get stuck with an ebike that you don't enjoy riding. I have tried many and they all ride different. I'm 5' 8" and tried the Stromer, felt heavy to me but liked the ride. My two favorites have been the Felt Sporte, and the Haibike Trekking. Still waiting to try some of the new 2015 Easy Motion bikes and see what their reviews are. Good Luck!

 

[lilrich1959]

Southpaw if you want to PM (private message) me I can give you contact info and we can talk specifics if you are decided on a Stromer

 

[Pace]

My two favorites have been the Felt Sporte, and the Haibike Trekking.

Haibikes were the only Bosch bikes I was able to try when I was looking, but they were sweet. Did you think there were any significant differences in Felt's interpretation? I'm a fan of their road bikes so I figure they'd be pretty good.

 

[Tom]

The Haibike felt bulkier and heavier to me. The feel of the Felt just was more natural. I wouldn't dismiss either bike. It might just come down to aesthetics of the bike. For me if I was to by a Bosch, I would choose the Felt. I was able to try both on the same day which was nice. Right now I'm waiting to try the 2015 Nitro City, and Cross. I'm drawn to the warranty more than the looks of these bikes. Plus, I think I'm going to need the throttle option. Haven't ruled out the 2015 Dash, those should be in stores shortly.

 

[Shea N Encinitas]

Haven't ruled out the 2015 Dash, those should be in stores shortly.

The only advantage to the 2015 Dash is a plus - minus PAS control pad. Looks like I will pickup a 2nd 2014 with 100 miles for $1,600. That is over $1,500 less (W tax) if you want to come get it. Or it will be my buddy bike, 3rd battery & 2nd charger. -S

 

[Tom]

The only advantage to the 2015 Dash is a plus - minus PAS control pad. Looks like I will pickup a 2nd 2014 with 100 miles for $1,600. That is over $1,500 less (W tax) if you want to come get it. Or it will be my buddy bike, 3rd battery & 2nd charger. -S

I've seen a few 2014 Dash's for sale in my area for about the same price. It seems a few dealers are unloading 2014 models.

 

[Shea N Encinitas]

Hay, my name is Rich, I just joined the forum today. I live in Temple, TX. I am 45yrs old. weigh @ 240. My commute will be 8 miles both ways with some moderate grades.

Hi Rich and welcome to the forum! You may want to copy this over to the Pedego section. Not sure I would commute on 26 x 2.35" tires, but 16 miles is not that far and comfort is king. I'll just share with you that seatpost suspension really improved my ride and a BodyFloat or Thudbuster would make the Commuter quite a bit softer. Good luck with your panniers, I have a similar open rack style on my Dash and ended up with a Novara Gotham trunk bag with fold out panniers, I like the versatility of that bag but it may be small for some requirements. -S