Vado 3.0 or Verve+

[Rhodyrider]

Hi, new member, Burt. Time to move from my specialized robauix to an ebike. Considering Specialized Vado 3.0 & Trek Verve +. Most rides are approximately 30 miles. Sometimes more and some around 15-20 miles at speed of 12-15 mph.
Mostly always flat but often with wind. Why only 12-15 mph? Because at 86 with heart surgery last yr and knee replacement this year, that’s about all this tire old body can take.
So, Vado or Verve?
Thanks

 

[Marci jo]

Good for you to keep on cycling!

After reading your situation my gut feeling is that you are going to surprise yourself. It’s possible that the new ebike will make you want to ride more miles than you thought, they are that much fun.

Have you ridden either of these bikes? Comfort is key. Get the one that feels the best.

I’m partial to Specialized because I have the Vado 6.0. The Brose motor that Specialize uses is incredibly quiet, smooth and powerful.

Haven’t tried the Verve. Although my local bike shop is pricing their 2018 models at a substantial reduction. Maybe there’s a deal for you.

Another thought: Trek just remodeled their Dual Sport Plus line and went with a battery enclosed in the down tube instead of an added on brick-like attachment. My feeling is they may do the same with their Verve Plus line. When that would be, who knows?!

Be sure to post a photo of your new wheels!

 

[e-boy]

Trek Verve + $2400
Specialized Vado 3.0 $3450

Vado is the higher spec'd bike , but the Verve+ is capable of doing your ride .
For me , Verve+ has a more comfortable upright riding position .
The only negatives for the Verve + are no suspension fork , ride can be a bit stiff , and the mudguards rattle .

Get the one that feels best to you .
It's also important to take the particular dealer/shop you buy from into consideration .

Since you mentioned knee replacement , maybe consider a step-through .
Also , how tall are you ; maybe a 26" or 27.5 wheel may be more appropriate .

 

[Rhodyrider]

Trek Verve + $2400
Specialized Vado 3.0 $3450

Vado is the higher spec'd bike , but the Verve+ is capable of doing your ride .
For me , Verve+ has a more comfortable upright riding position .
The only negatives for the Verve + are no suspension fork , ride can be a bit stiff , and the mudguards rattle .

Get the one that feels best to you .
It's also important to take the particular dealer/shop you buy from into consideration .

Since you mentioned knee replacement , maybe consider a step-through .
Also , how tall are you ; maybe a 26" or 27.5 wheel may be more appropriate .

Trek Verve + $2400
Specialized Vado 3.0 $3450

Vado is the higher spec'd bike , but the Verve+ is capable of doing your ride .
For me , Verve+ has a more comfortable upright riding position .
The only negatives for the Verve + are no suspension fork , ride can be a bit stiff , and the mudguards rattle .

Get the one that feels best to you .
It's also important to take the particular dealer/shop you buy from into consideration .

Since you mentioned knee replacement , maybe consider a step-through .
Also , how tall are you ; maybe a 26" or 27.5 wheel may be more appropriate .

Thanks for the reply. The 2020 specialized is now selling for 2,700. Not a sale, just a big reduction for this year. I have ridden both bikes on short around the block test rides. Right now I’m learning towards specialized, but plan to take both on longer rides soon. I’m 5’4, 200 pounds (working on reducing that number) so right on the cusp between small and medium. My current road bike with flat handlebars is a 54 medium and works fine for me. But it doesn’t weigh 53 pounds. Will let you know what I decide. At my age I don’t have a lot of time to waste ?

 

[DouglasB]

I think I would be looking at some step throughs. They aren't just for girl's any more. Think of them as scooters. Easy to ride.

 

[Rumik]

I bought a Trek Verve+ step-thru' version as I'm not the most agile of people and I'm very happy with it. Weighwise it is relatively light for an e-bike (about 45 lbs). I've found it quite adequate for steep hills but I'm quite a lightweight rider.

 

[Rhodyrider]

Thanks for the responses. I pulled the trigger last week and bought the 2020 specialized vado 3.0. Loving it. About 80 miles riding and so far it's everything I hoped it would be.