The gym and lack of going.

[kevinmccune]

So I discovered that a gym membership isn't working for me. I just can't get motivated for it. So I've decided to resume commuting to work again on a ebike. As some know my commute is 14 miles each way and crosses 3 war zone intersections. My commute is not speed restricted (not that I'd buy a ONYX or a Surron and ride it as a ebike) so 28mph is a option. No hills either. I have totally secure parking at work so theft isn't a concern. So this is my dilemma:

Do I really need 28mph top end? I was totally happy on my single speed RadRunner when doing this commute.

I still don't care for torque sensors. That being said I've never rode a powerful quality one that hit its top end easily (Looking at you slow Shimano Steps.).

Throttle, or the "T" word, is required.

I don't care for phone integration. I like simple and don't care to track my metrics or participate in distance logs.

Of ALL the ebikes I've owned the only one I regret selling is the RadRunner single speed. Cheap, cheerful and bulletproof once you put better tires on it.

I wish I had a reliable Specialized dealership in my area. The only one even remotely close are snobby roadies. Do have a good Trek dealer down the road but I know nothing about their ebike models.

I'm happy with 20" but do agree that 26" or taller are just better for commuting.

Finally, step-thru only. I recently replaced my low step Genuine Buddy scooter for a mid-step Honda PCX. Not willing to do this with a ebike.

Toss any ideas or options at me. I'm trying to keep this under $3000. I still dream about how a Globe Haul LT could be my one and only forever ebike but them I have to deal with the snob shop. Ugh, decisions......

get a "Jamis" and add a QiRoll.

 

[DDBB]

Having ridden both, I'd always pick the mid drive but that's just me.

 

[PedalUma]

We just purchased an Aventon Level 3 for DW, it is a torque sensor, but other than that seems to hit most of your desires. We got to do test rides, and we're impressed.

I just started reading this thread. The Aventon Level 3 has a torque sensor that can be turned OFF. It is easy through the display. And you can make it class 1, class 2, or class 3. Way out west in California throttle bikes are limited to 20mph. You will feel better, more endorphins with better exercise riding it class 3.

Edit: If you worry about breaking a chain, then carry a quick link. With a legal motor it's just not an issue. Many years ago I lost a quick link at an intersection with an HD Bafang, but even then I had reused the quick link four times and gunned the 1,000 watt nominal monster at the green light. Now I like subtle torque sensor motors with feel. This is a recent build. The starter bike was a $100 R-18 disc.