New M-class owner with a problem

[Djpdx]

Hello, I just received two Ariel M class bikes for me and my spouse. New to ebikes, I did research, read quite a lot of reviews and eventually settled on these bikes due to good reviews, small size, and bang for the buck. Our bikes are the 2020 version with the new suspension fork, and now without the Dapu motor, but rather a new unidentified “in-house” motor that some on here have identified as a TS motor.

My problem is that both of these bikes will not go up hills unless I ride at them peddling furiously and at maximum assist. On most roads the bikes do fine including the gradual hilly portions but my 110 foot 10% grade driveway (see attached photo) is a hill that neither bike can handle. I weigh 225 and tried all seven gears but usually gears 1-2 and max assist, the bike comes to a stop within 10-15 feet. Once stopped (or rather stalled) if I change to zero assist and use the throttle it does nothing—not even a hum— unless I get off of the bike and then I can walk it up with throttle assist. I have had the same problem with a 75’ paved park trail that rises to the street. I am forced to get off and walk the bike up. This equally affects both of our bikes which are identical.

Are these new TS motors not good or am I just not doing something right? It is very frustrating.

 

[lewishill]

TS motors are much better than Dapu motors. Can I ask few question to you. What is the speed limit on your e-bike. Because I can handle much steeper hills with my M-Class without any issue.

 

[Djpdx]

Speed is set at 20mph/32kph

 

[Djpdx]

I have decided to sell the M Class bikes as they do not adequately perform on hilly roads. If you’re interested in buying a blue bike with 4 miles, please contact me.

 

[Black47]

Sorry about your problems, I was thinking about getting an M-class, but decided against since I could not try it out. You might want to check out Cynergy in Portland at 3838 SE Powell as they have a variety of ebikes. I ended up getting my ebike there, a Giant LaFree E+2. They have rentals that you can try out for a longer test on your local hills, plus there are some hills to try out ebikes near the shop. They are very helpful and provide good service. BTW, I have very bad knees which I have been told need replacing, but at my age I don't like the prospect of being laid up for any amount of time. Good luck.

 

[Black47]

Have you sold them yet?

Still on Craigslist PDX

 

[Djpdx]

Sold both for what I paid after $100 multi bike discount and Ariel credit for sending the wrong color. I bought a Riese and Muller used bike for a steal and am very happy. By the way, I discovered that the M Class 2020 edition has throttle all of the time, not just on level 0.

 

[Black47]

Glad you got a bike you liked and got your money for the M Classes. I've hardly driven my car since I got my ebike, and my wife thinks I'm getting too
skinny.

 

[xerxez]

Well, this makes me nervous. My bike comes in a week. I hope it works out better than yours!

UPDATE: No longer nervous. The bike I bought has been good.

 

[Retired RV]

Hello, I just received two Ariel M class bikes for me and my spouse. New to ebikes, I did research, read quite a lot of reviews and eventually settled on these bikes due to good reviews, small size, and bang for the buck. Our bikes are the 2020 version with the new suspension fork, and now without the Dapu motor, but rather a new unidentified “in-house” motor that some on here have identified as a TS motor.

My problem is that both of these bikes will not go up hills unless I ride at them peddling furiously and at maximum assist. On most roads the bikes do fine including the gradual hilly portions but my 110 foot 10% grade driveway (see attached photo) is a hill that neither bike can handle. I weigh 225 and tried all seven gears but usually gears 1-2 and max assist, the bike comes to a stop within 10-15 feet. Once stopped (or rather stalled) if I change to zero assist and use the throttle it does nothing—not even a hum— unless I get off of the bike and then I can walk it up with throttle assist. I have had the same problem with a 75’ paved park trail that rises to the street. I am forced to get off and walk the bike up. This equally affects both of our bikes which are identical.

Are these new TS motors not good or am I just not doing something right? It is very frustrating.

When climbing a 7% hill, it seems strong, but eventually the motor will cycle on and off.