Consider the friend-hauling aspect of it too, IMO. Depending on how limiting you want to be, you can remove them having to make that choice by choosing a bike with no rear rack or at least a removable rear rack.
16mph is completely fine as a max-assisted speed.
If you go rear-hub motor, it’s worth searching out a model that still has a torque-sensing BB. The ride is better, and I’d argue they are also meaningfully safer.
ATMO rear-hub motor doesn’t deserve the stigma, especially on entry-level stuff. They are fine.
I have one of those half bong jawns from their clearance sale last fall and it’s…OK. it’s very heavy and has a long wheelbase, which takes for some adjustments in handling when compared to analog bikes. Step-thru is also nice-to-have for a heavier bike since it makes it easier to balance when getting on it, but I have the regular TT version.
Another problem I have with it is that I feel beat up after riding it over the shitty bumpy roads in the boston area. I have a TranzX antishock stem but might switch to a redshift or cane creek with actual travel…I’m guessing the aluminum frame/fork is way stiff to accommodate the battery and weight range of riders.
Agreed, and if the teens around here are any indication it will essentially be an e-moped, with the pedals used infrequently to actually propel the bike.
I might have personal hang-ups with that, but if that works with what @Dickason_Daniel 's intended use there’s nothing wrong with it. Better than the noise/maintenance/smell of a gas scooter.
This is not my intention. I’ve only ever ridden the Specialized one and a Haibike with Bosch. Both had torque sensing. That seems like the proper way for it to work. I don’t really trust the 14yo with an emoped.
how do you feel about charge? i could probably get you nice price as they are shuttering the brand but i think. they would still bolt strong on warranty
FWIW the throttle is an optional accessory. I have ridden it and think it’s pretty sweet, very powerful. I would not let my kid ride it with the throttle installed because it is totally an e-moped at that point. I’ll probably snag a long tail when they are available.
Pretty much the same thing with a longer butt. The weight capacity will be the same (419#) but should be better for bulkier cargo or multiple kiddo’s and whatnot. Don’t have an ETA on it yet unfortunately.
Both are really good. Shimano EP8 (and EP6) feel less powerful overall, but the power curves are smoother. I haven’t messed with Bosch’s new app but the Shimano E-tube app was pretty nice for adjusting assist levels and the like. Bosch tends to give you the power a bit more quickly. Some might call it ‘punchier;’ I call it ‘jerkier.’
Early EP8 motors developed a rattle that Shimano said wasn’t a big deal. I am unsure if that is fixed but It gives me pause to put my money into one.
