Switching to the Allant + 7S

[TrailSeeker]

Hi Everyone!

Just joined EBR but have been browsing the site for awhile now. A special thanks to everyone for the good advice and discussions.

So, just a little bit of background - I have been using the Trek Verve+ 2 for about a month and really loving it! I mostly use it on trails, as I find the nature to be peaceful and it's really great exercise for me. The only issue happened last time I was out... I had gone a bit too far down the trail and almost ran out of battery to get back (some of the hills I can't do manually, still trying to get into shape lol). Thankfully, I made it back okay, but I've been so sore for the last 5 days that I decided to trade in my verve for something with a front suspension fork. I called my LBS and they thankfully had an Allant + 7s in stock - in my size and frame style (so excited they had one, and shocked that bikes are selling out so fast right now).

So, I will be making the switch to the Allant +7s but needed some advice. I really want to hear what modifications people are doing (I've read through the forums and have found some), especially with a suspension seat post. I'm a bit on the shorter end at 5' 2, and I probably will have the seat post near the bottom which is why I'm asking. It seems a lot of these require 4" or more of room to work, according to some of their amazon descriptions. Is this true? Can anyone help me pick out a good seatpost that Trek would have in stock (I would have to have them do it for me - I'm a bike noob ). I composed a list of things I'm looking to upgrade and wanted to see if anyone had recommendations. I really value everyone's opinion on here - you guys know your stuff!

1. A suspension seat post available through trek that I could have them install when I pickup my new bike.
2. A nice and comfortable saddle that I can also have them install for me, at the shop. ( I was looking at the gel Commuter one - had anyone ever tried it?)
3. Nicer pedals to use while on the trails. I don't have any tools besides my emergency multi-tool, so I might have to have them put them on for me as well.
4. Range boost: Do any of you guys use this for the Allant+ 7s? The performance motor might not get the mileage of the active line I'm told. I can't decide if i should carry an extra 500 wh battery with me or get the range boost - any thoughts?
5. A front light that blinks and I can put on my bike to help stay visible for joggers and pedestrians on the trails.
6. Fender upgrades: I wanted to put on higher end fenders since the ones on my verve rattle around a lot. Also they are prone to moving. Any thoughts?
7. Derailleur: Is this something that will help performance any? I heard some of the higher end bikes will use better derailleurs but I don't know if it's really needed for someone at my skill level.

EDIT: I'm sorry for all the questions. I can separate this post into multiple ones if needed. Please let me know. Thank you guys

As a side note, I was curious if anyone has heard the difference in motor performance/sound between the Verve and Allant? I know the Allant might be a little louder, but I'm hoping it wont bother others on the trail. I've also heard the performance Speed motor gets slightly less range than the active series. I was wondering if I could make it with less assist though - any thoughts?

Thanks everyone for your help!

PS I can search the forums for this, but is there anything I have to do to the suspension fork before riding? Do they need to be tuned? Sorry for all the questions - I just got into biking a month or so ago. It's so much fun

 

[Dallant]

Hi Everyone!

Just joined EBR but have been browsing the site for awhile now. A special thanks to everyone for the good advice and discussions.

So, just a little bit of background - I have been using the Trek Verve+ 2 for about a month and really loving it! I mostly use it on trails, as I find the nature to be peaceful and it's really great exercise for me. The only issue happened last time I was out... I had gone a bit too far down the trail and almost ran out of battery to get back (some of the hills I can't do manually, still trying to get into shape lol). Thankfully, I made it back okay, but I've been so sore for the last 5 days that I decided to trade in my verve for something with a front suspension fork. I called my LBS and they thankfully had an Allant + 7s in stock - in my size and frame style (so excited they had one, and shocked that bikes are selling out so fast right now).

So, I will be making the switch to the Allant +7s but needed some advice. I really want to hear what modifications people are doing (I've read through the forums and have found some), especially with a suspension seat post. I'm a bit on the shorter end at 5' 2, and I probably will have the seat post near the bottom which is why I'm asking. It seems a lot of these require 4" or more of room to work, according to some of their amazon descriptions. Is this true? Can anyone help me pick out a good seatpost that Trek would have in stock (I would have to have them do it for me - I'm a bike noob ). I composed a list of things I'm looking to upgrade and wanted to see if anyone had recommendations. I really value everyone's opinion on here - you guys know your stuff!

1. A suspension seat post available through trek that I could have them install when I pickup my new bike.
2. A nice and comfortable saddle that I can also have them install for me, at the shop. ( I was looking at the gel Commuter one - had anyone ever tried it?)
3. Nicer pedals to use while on the trails. I don't have any tools besides my emergency multi-tool, so I might have to have them put them on for me as well.
4. Range boost: Do any of you guys use this for the Allant+ 7s? The performance motor might not get the mileage of the active line I'm told. I can't decide if i should carry an extra 500 wh battery with me or get the range boost - any thoughts?
5. A front light that blinks and I can put on my bike to help stay visible for joggers and pedestrians on the trails.
6. Fender upgrades: I wanted to put on higher end fenders since the ones on my verve rattle around a lot. Also they are prone to moving. Any thoughts?
7. Derailleur: Is this something that will help performance any? I heard some of the higher end bikes will use better derailleurs but I don't know if it's really needed for someone at my skill level.

EDIT: I'm sorry for all the questions. I can separate this post into multiple ones if needed. Please let me know. Thank you guys

As a side note, I was curious if anyone has heard the difference in motor performance/sound between the Verve and Allant? I know the Allant might be a little louder, but I'm hoping it wont bother others on the trail. I've also heard the performance Speed motor gets slightly less range than the active series. I was wondering if I could make it with less assist though - any thoughts?

Thanks everyone for your help!

PS I can search the forums for this, but is there anything I have to do to the suspension fork before riding? Do they need to be tuned? Sorry for all the questions - I just got into biking a month or so ago. It's so much fun

Congrats on getting into ebiking! We have two Allant+7, a high step and a Lowstep. We love ‘em. I have the Trek Bontrager base suspension seat post and a Serfas E-Gel seat. This combo works great for me but I’d wait till you get it adjusted for you and ride it a bit to see if you really need a new post or seat. The Bontrager seat post sits pretty low compared to the much higher priced kind.
I’d ride it a while before messing with changes until you see how it all goes. The base pedals that come on the Allant have been recalled so I’d make sure they’ve given you the Trek credit and have properly changed/installed those out for the new ones when you pick it up. I’d ride it a while to see how you like those pedals. Same with Range Boost (kinda ugly IMO) or spare battery issue, though I ended up buying a spare. As far as fenders and derailleur, I really like mine. Finally, all three of my Treks (I also have a Rail 5) have the CX motor and are certainly louder than the Active Line but provide a ton more power. I certainly wouldn’t worry about others on the trail!
One other thing you might want eventually is an adjustable handlebar stem to have a more upright sitting position. Bontrager also makes one your dealer can change out for you if you find you need it. That said, I installed bar ends to give me two different seating positions. Best of luck!

 

[Old Fart At Play]

I'd second Dallant - don't worry over much about changes you might make until you've ridden the bike for a while. You'll see lots of people have made lots of changes, but they aren't necessarily changes that will be right for you. I think it is best to see changes as part of the fun, as you learn what you like and what you don't, change things around and see. It isn't about getting things perfect straight away, it is about gradually adapting what you start with to suit you better. Like they say, it is the journey that is important, not the destinantion! Welcome to the brilliant world of cycling, I hope you have a lot of fun. There is no freedom like being on a bike.

 

[TrailSeeker]

That's a really nice Bike Dallant! Thank you for sharing all those details. I didn't realize the pedals were recalled. I'm almost dying of anticipation now to try out this new bike - I can't even imagine the power upgrade

Also thanks old Fart at Play for reiterating Dallants point on waiting and trying things out first. I got so caught up in the upgrades, I forgot that this will be brand new and I'll have no idea yet what I like or don't like.

Someday, the goal is to be able and do every repair, maintenance, and modification on my own. That being said - I'm a good 10 years away from that LOL. I'm lucky I know how to pump air in a tire, because that's the only thing on my resume right now

 

[Dallant]

That's a really nice Bike Dallant! Thank you for sharing all those details. I didn't realize the pedals were recalled. I'm almost dying of anticipation now to try out this new bike - I can't even imagine the power upgrade

Also thanks old Fart at Play for reiterating Dallants point on waiting and trying things out first. I got so caught up in the upgrades, I forgot that this will be brand new and I'll have no idea yet what I like or don't like.

Someday, the goal is to be able and do every repair, maintenance, and modification on my own. That being said - I'm a good 10 years away from that LOL. I'm lucky I know how to pump air in a tire, because that's the only thing on my resume right now

You’re welcome. Your +7s should be much quicker and a better climber than the Verve was. Not sure how much more battery longevity you’ll have. Make sure your LBS updates your new bikes system before you take it. I’d suggest selecting the option of On-Off Lights, so you can turn your lights on and off.
I’d keep it in Eco or Touring mode most of the time unless you really need more power, at least until you get a sense for how far your battery can take you. I’d also keep to paved trails till you’ve gotten some miles on the bike.

 

[TrailSeeker]

Make sure your LBS updates your new bikes system before you take i

This is for the software right? I actually asked them about putting in a Kiox. I have this app on my phone called cyclometer and i really like it. The problem is it needs information from the motor on my true stats. Im hoping it will work with the Kiox put in. I tried the SPH but it was too fancy for me. I like things simple and basic. Actually the purion grew on me, but it didn't have bluetooth which was the only issue.

 

[gringo]

Do you regularly ride over 20mph on your current bike? Or do you have the desire to? If not you might consider the Allant+7 (powered support cuts out at 20mph w/Bosch performance line CX motor) rather than the Allant+7s (powered support cuts out at 28 mph w/Bosch performance line speed motor).

I have the 7s, but I use it for commuting on asphalt where I often cruise at about 22mph and occasionally like to have access to the additional speed if/when I need it. But if I were only riding on unpaved trails I would probably opt for the Allant +7 (CX) version. Uphill they will perform similarly (you generally don't go 20mph uphill). Downhill they will perform the same (you can go as fast as you want or are comfortable with downhill on both bikes). And I don't see much need to go over 20mph on the flats on unpaved surfaces. Anyway, just a thought to consider.

I agree with others that you should ride any new bike for a while stock before upgrading anything. Then only upgrade components out of need or prolonged discomfort.

Enjoy the new bike!

 

[Dallant]

This is for the software right? I actually asked them about putting in a Kiox. I have this app on my phone called cyclometer and i really like it. The problem is it needs information from the motor on my true stats. Im hoping it will work with the Kiox put in. I tried the SPH but it was too fancy for me. I like things simple and basic. Actually the purion grew on me, but it didn't have bluetooth which was the only issue.

This is for the bike’s Bosch battery/motor system control, not the Purion, Kiox, or Nyon displays.

 

[Dallant]

Do you regularly ride over 20mph on your current bike? Or do you have the desire to? If not you might consider the Allant+7 (powered support cuts out at 20mph w/Bosch performance line CX motor) rather than the Allant+7s (powered support cuts out at 28 mph w/Bosch performance line speed motor).

I have the 7s, but I use it for commuting on asphalt where I often cruise at about 22mph and occasionally like to have access to the additional speed if/when I need it. But if I were only riding on unpaved trails I would probably opt for the Allant +7 (CX) version. Uphill they will perform similarly (you generally don't go 20mph uphill). Downhill they will perform the same (you can go as fast as you want or are comfortable with downhill on both bikes). And I don't see much need to go over 20mph on the flats on unpaved surfaces. Anyway, just a thought to consider.

I agree with others that you should ride any new bike for a while stock before upgrading anything. Then only upgrade components out of need or prolonged discomfort.

Enjoy the new bike!

I think @TrailSeeker already made the trade for the +7s.

 

[gringo]

I think @TrailSeeker already made the trade for the +7s.

Ah...got it. Thanks!

Nothing wrong with the +7s! I have the 7s and love it!

 

[TrailSeeker]

@gringo I got super lucky and they had only 1 left in stock that would fit me. I've heard really good things about the Allant + 7S and I can't wait until it's ready - waiting is the hardest part lol.

I usually don't go over 20, but it's hard to find small sizes that will fit me. One thing I did think about though is the whole class 1 vs class 3 restrictions issue. For now my state (illinois) allows class 3, but there's always a possibility they put restrictions on it, at some point.

Also with the sound, if it's too laud I couldn't use it for the whole trail, since technically they say no motor vehicles. I never had a problem with the verve though, and when they say motor vehicles I feel they are talking about mopeds, motorcycles, and maybe even class 2 bikes. To me the verve was so quiet - it was just like a normal bike. And being pedal assisted, makes it different enough from other motor vehicles- at least to me. The signs are pretty old and they probably didn't have ebikes back then ( I hope I'm not out of line on this). I would hate to get banned from all the trails here.

@Dallant thank you for the information on the motor and battery updates. I would never have thought to ask about that.

 

[Dallant]

@gringo I got super lucky and they had only 1 left in stock that would fit me. I've heard really good things about the Allant + 7S and I can't wait until it's ready - waiting is the hardest part lol.

I usually don't go over 20, but it's hard to find small sizes that will fit me. One thing I did think about though is the whole class 1 vs class 3 restrictions issue. For now my state (illinois) allows class 3, but there's always a possibility they put restrictions on it, at some point.

Also with the sound, if it's too laud I couldn't use it for the whole trail, since technically they say no motor vehicles. I never had a problem with the verve though, and when they say motor vehicles I feel they are talking about mopeds, motorcycles, and maybe even class 2 bikes. To me the verve was so quiet - it was just like a normal bike. And being pedal assisted, makes it different enough from other motor vehicles- at least to me. The signs are pretty old and they probably didn't have ebikes back then ( I hope I'm not out of line on this). I would hate to get banned from all the trails here.

@Dallant thank you for the information on the motor and battery updates. I would never have thought to ask about that.

in addition to the “Light switching function” option (“Bike light can be switched on/off”), make sure your LBS enables WalkAssist, which allows the Allant to power the bike at up to 3 mph while you walk alongside the bike. This can be useful in a variety of situations, like getting up stairs/really steep areas you don’t want to ride.

 

[TrailSeeker]

This can be useful in a variety of situations, like getting up stairs/really steep areas you don’t want to ride.

Thanks for the reminder. I had tried this once on the verve and it helped a lot since the bike is so heavy. I never thought of using this to get up stairs though! Whoever thought of that is a genius... I kind of want to try it, just to see it in action

 

[Dallant]

Thanks for the reminder. I had tried this once on the verve and it helped a lot since the bike is so heavy. I never thought of using this to get up stairs though! Whoever thought of that is a genius... I kind of want to try it, just to see it in action

EMTB use is even more interesting. I used the rear tire method to go up some narrow outdoor steps once.

 

[Sparky731]

The 7s is a good choice, from my perspective as an owner.
I chose the 7s over the 8s primarily for the front shock and the rear carrier -- like you, I find the road bumps are tiresome.
A couple of "upgrade" thoughts: Seatpost: Get the same Comfort Suspension post as on the Verve. Saddle: I really like the Bontrager Fluid Saddle -- either Commuter or Boulevard per size choice. Stem: Trek advised the Delta Stem Riser as their "most added" accessory to the 7s -- just enough added height. I also changed to mountain bike pedals with the little nubbies given my shoes were slipping off the pedals.
I added the Range Boost because I like to ride in the mid 20s mph with Sport & Turbo and can burn through electrons fast -- the boost basically doubles my mileage. However, if you primarily ride in the mid teens mph, you will find the Speed motor to have greater efficiency and more miles per electron than the Verve's Action motor.
And yes, the Speed motor is slightly more noisy than the Action motor -- sounds like an EV racer!
I have also upgraded the derailleur to the Shimano Deore MTB derailleur.
Have fun on your new bike!! You made a good choice with the Allant.

 

[TrailSeeker]

have also upgraded the derailleur to the Shimano Deore MTB derailleur

Thanks for that... I've been thinking about the handlebar raiser depending on how it feels when I start riding a bit.

I was going to ask you, what is the benefit of a higher end derailleur? Does it let you shift faster and help the chain from falling off? How hard is it to upgrade and how do you know if it's compatible with the allant drivetrain? (I just started reading about this stuff last night )

 

[Sparky731]

Truth be told, the original derailleur was not quite up to its task. Likewise, the original chain Trek puts on their ebikes is not their “ebike chain.” So, when the original wears out — mine did at ~1,200 miles — I had Trek replace the chain, the cassette and the derailleur. All upgrades from original.
FYI, the increased torque from the speed motor makes “quiet” shifting more challenging, hence the earlier drive train wear. I also had bent the derailleur.
Had we analyzed the situation fully, I would have upgraded to the 8s 10 speed components including the clutch derailleur. Will do that next time.

 

[TrailSeeker]

Likewise, the original chain Trek puts on their ebikes is not their “ebike chain

I had noticed this last night when trying to buy an extra chain. It should be the kmc turbo series for ebikes, according to their website.

e9 Turbo EPT- KMC

www.kmcchain.com

 

[Dallant]

Truth be told, the original derailleur was not quite up to its task. Likewise, the original chain Trek puts on their ebikes is not their “ebike chain.” So, when the original wears out — mine did at ~1,200 miles — I had Trek replace the chain, the cassette and the derailleur. All upgrades from original.
FYI, the increased torque from the speed motor makes “quiet” shifting more challenging, hence the earlier drive train wear. I also had bent the derailleur.
Had we analyzed the situation fully, I would have upgraded to the 8s 10 speed components including the clutch derailleur. Will do that next time.

So what does “not quite up to its task” mean?

 

[Sparky731]

I thought the original derailleur was minimally matched to the rigors required. Understandably, manufacturers try to maintain a price and profit point for their products. In doing so, there is a risk that components may wear out earlier than should be expected. The original chain is one more example.