Video and Editorial: Unboxing And Assembling A Surface 604 Rook

[TheGadgetGuru]

Yes, my blog posts are typically long winded, but I'll be curious as to your thoughts on both the unboxing and assembly experience I had with the Surface 604 and my opinion on some needed improvements to the direct-to-consumer e-bike industry. While this is a link to my website, please return to this thread with your comments. https://www.gadgetguru.com/surface604-rook-assembly/

 

[Nova Haibike]

I teach people how to assemble their own bicycle at my co-op. I cover a lot more than just a basic assembly, because I find a lot of factory assembly sub-standard. For the big brands like Trek and Specialized, maybe that is because the companies are trying to keep the cost low, and rely on dealers to do a proper assembly. I don't know if direct-to-consumer companies are actually any better at providing more accurately assembled bikes out-of-the-box than traditional brands with a dealer network; I cannot say judging by your unboxing video alone.

One way to avoid self-assembly altogether is to just take your online purchase to a bike shop and have them assemble it. Perhaps some shops won't do an e-bike, but at my co-op we do full-service for those that do not care to learn, and at every shop I have ever worked at, we assembled bikes people bought elsewhere. Another option that is available in more and more locations around the country is a mobile bike repair service such as Velofix or Beeline Bikes. Some online bicycle companies even have contracts with these mobile bike shops to have their products assembled, which is smart from a warranty and liability perspective.

 

[TheGadgetGuru]

After some assembly assembly and tweaking assistance by the friendly local bike tech, I must admit, that after a few miles of seat time, I'm starting to enjoy this bike. Yes, having the throttle limited by pedal assistance mode is not my favorite feature, but the rest of the bike is providing a nice experience. Love the hydraulic brakes! Full review coming soon.

 

[TheGadgetGuru]

I'm 5' 6" tall and being able to adjust the bars towards the rider and lower the seat enough to flat foot this bike are very good things!

(I can't figure out why this second photo only appears as an attachment and not in the thread. Admin assistance welcomed!)

View attachment IMG_1904 (1).jpg

 

[Barry S]

I teach people how to assemble their own bicycle at my co-op.

What a great service!

 

[TheGadgetGuru]

Yes, it's a sexy bike.

It caught the attention of a mermaid!

 

[TheGadgetGuru]

I’m having fun putting the Rook through the paces!

 

[bob armani]

I’m having fun putting the Rook through the paces!

View attachment 22437

I see your seatpost is in the lowest position. This presents a problem with using a suspension post. I have the same issue on my E-bike. It would need to be raised an additional 3-4 inches to get a good fit. I am about your height, so my medium frame is a bit large. Nice looking bike with all of the useful accessories.

 

[DaveS]

That's a good looking bike!

 

[WalkinTarget]

This guy knows how to frame and accentuate his pics !! Gorgeous pics !! I'm not a fan of a step thru but you really made it look attractive.