Pedego Interceptor or Electric Bike Company Model C?

[Molson82]

I'm looking for my first electric bike, and would appreciate some guidance.

Comparing the two, the Pedego Interceptor & Electric Bike Company Model C seem to share similar features. I appreciate the value of Pedego's local stores when issues arise, but the Electric Bike Company has linked up with Velofix for in-home service and warranty issues, and I like the plug & play setup on the EBC bikes that makes it look relatively easy to change/repair components. Both have better-than-average warranties as well.

I've noticed that neither brand has many negative posts or concerns but even more so for the EBC bikes. The only consistent knock on Pedego seems to be that they might be considered overpriced. Since the Interceptor (not the Platinum) is about $1,000 more than the Model C, I'm wondering if the added cost is worth it. I like both bikes very much but want to get the best bang for my buck. I'm hoping I can get help from the vast knowledge base here.

I'm also open to 'better' alternatives in the $2k-$3k range.

Thank in advance for the help.

 

[Lantley]

They both appear to be quality bikes.
The model C may even have better components.
However there is no substitute for a dedicated local shop with a live person if/when issues arise.
In the end it becomes a "Brick and Mortar" sale with live customer support vs. a
internet sale with some alternative to live customer support.
Internet will always be cheaper vs. Brick and Mortar.
Do you want to pay for the superior/live customer support network or do you want to take internet savings?
I consider the bikes themselves to be a wash. It's all about service after the sale

 

[Molson82]

Model C!

$1999
28mph
1250W

MODEL C - Electric Bike Company®

The Electric Bike Company™️ - Built in California Factory, Custom Design and Personalized Colors - Ships FULLY assembled

electricbikecompany.com

Thank you!

 

[Molson82]

They both appear to be quality bikes.
The model C may even have better components.
However there is no substitute for a dedicated local shop with a live person if/when issues arise.
In the end it becomes a "Brick and Mortar" sale with live customer support vs. a
internet sale with some alternative to live customer support.
Internet will always be cheaper vs. Brick and Mortar.
Do you want to pay for the superior/live customer support network or do you want to take internet savings?
I consider the bikes themselves to be a wash. It's all about service after the sale

 

[Lantley]

I really think it depends.

I've had bad experience with local bike shop, and had a good experience with online stores.

You are correct that you can have a good or bad experience with both.
Pedego has their own network of Pedego dedicated bike shops that sell only the Pedego Brand. You are simply less likely to get no response from their dedicated stores vs. online retailers.
Read these threads how often to you hear of know reply or no response from the various companies.
I know I can call , visit, or email my Pedego shop during business hours and get a prompt /immediate response.
I place more value on that fact, than I do on the bikes specifications or the bikes price.
At this point in life I simply want to ride my Ebike for fun and exercise. While I am capable of tinkering and fixing most mechanical things. I don't want to become a bike mechanic. I don't want someone to ship me parts, I don't want to personally diagnose problems. I simply want to take a leisurely ride.
The turn key experience is what differentiates Pedego from other brands, quite frankly many are not looking for the turn key experience. Many are OK with an online experience.
However Pedego has built a huge following and a venerable brand name based on providing a turn key experience.

 

[Molson82]

I understand & appreciate the value of having a local bike shop at the ready to fix whatever is broken. I guess one consideration there is just how 'local' is local?

I also believe that if you buy 'better', you'll have fewer issues to contend with. I'm 66 years old, and don't want headaches if they can be avoided. That's why I was interested in comparing the two. Putting maintenance aside for a moment, which bike actually specs out the best? As a reminder... I'm open to other options as well.

As an aside, there is a 2017 Interceptor on sale for $2,500 nearby that belongs to a Pedego store manager. It comes with a 15AmpHr battery, wood trim package, 750 miles under it's belt, and otherwise in great condition. Worth consideration??

Thanks

 

[HCooke]

I have put 1200 mile on a Platinum Interceptor since the middle of June. Great experience. Dealer is super. I can do mechanical work, but I like having the backup of the dealer. My $.02 worth.

 

[6zfshdb]

I own 3 Pedego Interceptors with a total of 4000+ miles on them over three seasons. I've had no notable issues with any. I have no experience with the EBC Model C so, like you, all I can do is compare specs.

These are the main differences I see:

The EBC has a 380# weight limit due to it's 36 - 13 gauge spoke wheel format. The Pedego uses a 34 - 12 gauge spoke wheel format with a 300# limit. That limit can be increased to 400# but it requires the $495 mag wheel option.

The Pedego is a class 2 bike with a throttle and 20 MPH top speed. I'm not sure into what class the EBC falls since it has both a throttle and a 28 MPH top speed. The top speed makes it a class 3 but the throttle makes it a class 2. You should check the laws in the areas you plan to ride to see if this is a factor.

Pedego is a bit overpriced. What you get for the extra $$ is their superior warranty and dealer network which is second to none with a nationwide footprint. As stated earlier, phone calls and emails are always answered promptly. Pedego will also deal directly with the customer for parts without having to go through a dealer. This was important to me since I don't have a dealer nearby.

The EBC offers a larger 17.4 AH battery option. The Pedego large battery option is 15 AH. This could make a difference in the bikes overall range.

The Pedego comes standard with a suspension seatpost. It is an option on the EBC. IMO, these spring suspension posts aren't very good and if you are like many here, you will eventually replace it with a quality suspension post.

A 7 speed gear train comes standard on the Pedego but is optional on the EBC.

The EBC lists a 1250 watt max output whereas the Pedego lists a 500 watt nominal output. It's difficult to compare these motors based on specs but my guess is they are quite similar.

Keep in mind that the best bike is the one you are happy with. The only way to be sure is to test ride the bike before buying.

BTW, welcome to the forum! IMO, you would be pleased with either of these bikes. The choice is yours and good luck with your ultimate decision!

 

[ALFox]

@Molson82, what did you end up getting? I am in the same predicament. I love the style of both of these bikes. A brand new Interceptor specced out how I want it comes to like $3.6k. An EBC Model C specced out how I want it comes to about $3.5k... so they are essentially the same price. The EBC is obviously faster, not sure on the range... but how do they compare when it comes to quality, comfort, ride, etc?

I live near both companies’ show rooms and plan to go visit on Friday. Just wanted to get some insight from the pros here.

Thanks!