Thoughts on new E-Bike for 5 mile hilly commute

[davess444]

Hi All,

I am in the market for a new E-Bike for my commute to work. I have a roughly 5 mile moderately hilly commute. I'm 6' and 170 lbs. I was looking for something less than $3,000. I have tested a Raleigh redux ie and the Giant Quick E as well as a low-end Trek commuter. I liked both the Redux and Quick-E, although I'm not 100% sure whether I need a class 3 bike. Both bikes are now a little more than I was hoping to spend. I've also thought about the Izip Moda E3, although I can't seem to find one in large. Based on other posts here it also seems like the Juiced CCX is a reasonable option.

I was also wondering folks thoughts on buying online vs. in a store? It seems like there are advantages to buying a new bike from a reputable store so that you can get things repaired more reasonably. I do most of my own repairs on my road and mountain bike, but have never serviced an E-Bike.

Any thoughts would be much appreciated!

Dave

 

[6zfshdb]

Although I can't comment directly on the above bikes, I can offer some general advice.

Unless the hills you refer to are long and more than a 14% grade, any of the bikes you mention should serve you well. Some bikes are better than others when it comes to steep hill climbs. If you ride mostly on roads, a class 3 bike might be a good choice to help maintain speed while in traffic.

While dealing with a local LBS is always good practice, If you're comfortable doing your own bike work, buying online is certainly an option. If you do, first check with the bike manufacturer. Some are willing to send warranty repair parts directly to you based on your description of the problem along with instructions on how to install them. Others want you to go through a dealer or LBS.

 

[linklemming]

Hi All,

I am in the market for a new E-Bike for my commute to work. I have a roughly 5 mile moderately hilly commute. I'm 6' and 170 lbs. I was looking for something less than $3,000. I have tested a Raleigh redux ie and the Giant Quick E as well as a low-end Trek commuter. I liked both the Redux and Quick-E, although I'm not 100% sure whether I need a class 3 bike. Both bikes are now a little more than I was hoping to spend. I've also thought about the Izip Moda E3, although I can't seem to find one in large. Based on other posts here it also seems like the Juiced CCX is a reasonable option.

I was also wondering folks thoughts on buying online vs. in a store? It seems like there are advantages to buying a new bike from a reputable store so that you can get things repaired more reasonably. I do most of my own repairs on my road and mountain bike, but have never serviced an E-Bike.

Any thoughts would be much appreciated!

Dave

I own an M Moda E3 and it fits me perfectly at 6ft 32 inch inseam

I also own a L CCX.

Both are great bikes. The Moda is more of a well refined 'cyclists bike'. The CCX is more rough around the edges but considerably faster.

 

[davess444]

I own an M Moda E3 and it fits me perfectly at 6ft 32 inch inseam

I also own a L CCX.

Both are great bikes. The Moda is more of a well refined 'cyclists bike'. The CCX is more rough around the edges but considerably faster.

Thanks so much for the thoughts. Seems like the Moda in a medium might be a good option. I'm surprised the CCX is so much faster. Do you prefer one over the other in areas where you have a lot of stop and go?

 

[linklemming]

Thanks so much for the thoughts. Seems like the Moda in a medium might be a good option. I'm surprised the CCX is so much faster. Do you prefer one over the other in areas where you have a lot of stop and go?

To be clear, speed wise they(Moda and CCX) both top out at 28mph. I have my CCX speed limited to 28mph and have put a 42t front chainring on both so I really cant go any faster anyways. The CCX just requires less effort (especially about 23mph or so)

If stop-and-go is in traffic with cars, you will definately like the CCX more.

For everything except raw power and range, I like riding the Moda way more.

 

[davess444]

Thanks so much for the thoughts. I think the Moda is likely a better option for me based on that and the other reviews I've read online. I have a little stop and go, but not a ton. Mostly cruising along moderately hilly bike paths. Much appreciated!

 

[TrevorB]

Servicing is no different from normal bike. There is nothing on electrical side that needs servicing, especially with Brose motor.

You will find ebike is harder on brakes and drivetrain, especially in hilly areas, so expect to change brake pads and chains more often. Easy job for average home bike mechanic.