I've had my ride1up 500 for 5 months now. I would purchase it again in a heartbeat. I have 600 miles on it and my only maintenance has been to oil the chain once. I'm 6'1" and 195 lbs and the bike's performance in hilly Prescott is excellent. Handling is very good as is ride quality. I did add a Suntour suspension seat post which I recommend for heavier riders. The bike is tight and solid. I did change the PAS levels from 9 to 5 and appreciate all the adjustability that the 500 display/controller provides. I love the looks of the bike ... the color, lines and semi-integrated battery, make it look like something from the future to me. I typically get 35 to 45 miles on a charge. Prior to my purchase I had ridden the Rad City, Rover, Mini, Espin Sport and Flow, Aventon 350 and 500 and a Specialized mid drive MTB. Of all these, my No. 1 is the Ride1up, with the Espin a close second.
I also purchased an Espin Flow (the Ride1up 500 step thru was not available at that time) for my wife. At a similar price point, both of these bikes are exceptional values. I do like the hydraulic brakes on her Espin, much less hand force required and very powerful. But I can stop both bikes equally well, just need more pressure on the non-hydraulic brakes. If you are on the fence, I can highly recommend the Espin bikes or the Ride1up 500.