I've been following them since the start and have finally jumped in with the SONDORS XS. Looking forward to commuting with this baby once the weather starts improving. Hoping the car company finds success.
Nice review, very fair. I LOVE my Sondors Thin. I had my bike tech have a look at it and he was scratching his head when I told him the price. $700 delivered to your door. I added the LED controller to unlock pedal assist up to 5 and a back rack that I use for add on batteries. Pure fun right out of the box. I can't wait for it to cool down a little here in Phoenix so I can ride more often.
My brother has the This version. It handles far better and accelerates a bit faster than the fat tire version. I'm fully sold on the bike's practicality and believe it makes perfect sense as an urban conqueror.
Very well done video, and honest assessment. I knew at the beginning of the video when you said you had 50 years experience, that you were going to like this bike.
Yes! I was right! In the beginning of the video, I had a feeling that was Sacramento. I lived there for a few years. Great place. Oh, and great review video.
Awesome job with the video. I have two Sondors fat bikes and absolutely love them! Your review was helpful getting a better feel before purchasing. Thanks!
I disagree. As an owner of 2 Sondors ebikes, My lady and I are 56 yrs old and a little overweight, as are a great percentage of Sondors owners. We bought these bikes primarily as secondary / alternative transportation at home and as primary transportation when we are traveling on our boat. We do not use the electric power as "assistance" we use throttle only and pedaling is entirely optional depending on how we feel physically. I hardly ever pedal. I weigh approx. 270lbs, I carry a lot of gear and an extra battery. :-) My Lady pedals Most of the time and pulls our single wheel trailer when needed to carry massive amounts of groceries and ice. the trailer carries up to 100lbs and she doesn't even notice it behind her most of the time. the brakes are entirely adequate even at this weight and going down pretty steep inclines as we live in the foothills. "there is nothing that makes a fat tire more stable than a skinny tire"?? The tires are not just for spectacle, They allow us to ride on any surface confidently. Sand, Snow, dirt trails etc. (you can ride these bikes just about anywhere you can take a snowmobile or 4X4 with confidence.) there are a lot of videos showing how much more stable they are. So as you can see I (as well as a LOT of Sondors owners) disagree with a lot of your "honest" evaluation. I don't think you are lying I just think maybe a little biased or ignorant. And I mean ignorant in the respectful sense as you may not have evaluated it in the real world (us being older and overweight) and not so athletically inclined, as well as riding these in places we would never take a "skinny tire" bike. Overall I think your video is well produced and one of the best I've seen and I will share it.
Thanks for the reply and comment. Yes, you are correct, you can ride this bike purely allowing the motor to propel you without pedaling input. However, I've found that even light pedaling extends the range greatly. There's no argument that a fat tire has any more stability than a skinny tire. A fat tire does have more physical room to absorb an impact and laying down a slightly larger contact patch is its greatest advantage. But those same benefits also add rolling resistance and lower range given everything else equal. In as much as a fat tire's advantage over snow and sand, I agree it may have the ability to float better but that advantage is only slight. I'm no lightweight rider and have ridden hundreds of miles over sand and snow with conventional tires beneath me. I was fully confident on the snow covered route 1,200 feet up the cliff on Lake Tahoe's famous Flume Trail with lightly treaded, cross-country knobs on conventional rubber. Fat tired equipped bikes that buddies pedaled had no seeming advantage and they admitted the climb up to the Flume was harder because of the extra rolling weight and resistance. They also wished for their conventional tires coming down the icy technical trail on the return, again because of slow handling. I will admit that perception of performance goes a long way in judging a bike and if a particular tire seems to work, then, yes, it works. By the way, I have a buddy who weighed 300 pounds when he rode across the country some over dirt roads. His touring bike was equipped with 23mm tires. That's about a fifth the size of the Sondors rubber. Thanks again for the comments and have fun on your bike.
+Evergreen Business Association Sir, You say this, "There's no argument that a fat tire has any more stability than a skinny tire. A fat tire does have more physical room to absorb an impact and laying down a slightly larger contact patch is its greatest advantage." and then you add a "but" and begin to spew sour grapes trying to compare Mt Bike to Electric Fat bike. Your first statement was correct, However these tires when fully inflated and being folding bead (much lighter) can have LESS rolling resistance. You know a lot about Mt biking that's a fact, You're just a little challenged when it comes to physics IMO. Besides you are negating the "Electric" and assist which is the reason you now FLY past your buddy's on any hills and ANY surfaces who are still "stuck" on Mt bikes, You probably ride Sondors all the time now with a HUGE smile on your face just like the rest of us. Why not be honest and just say that? by the way Sondors owners have logged hundreds of thousands of miles and 10's of thousands of miles off road in EVERY condition now. Take a look at the Social network on Facebook: Sondors Storm Owners Group and others Thousands of like minded Storm Zombies or the Sondors Groupie Group on Facebook :-) P.S. Air your tires up to 20psi (Max) and hang on tight my silly friend
your comment is exxxxxacctlyyyyy what I was looking for. was wondering if you could use throttle only... I'm a big dude and want to go for five to ten miles rides but might want to go pedal free on the way back home lol. does it hit speeds of 20 mph with throttle only?
Totally agree. I weigh 260 and was on the Sondors Thin yesterday for about two hours in 90 degree heat (sorry East Coast) and hardly broke a sweat. I've been using the standard battery exclusively. I'm working on another battery system using 18650 batteries reclaimed from old laptop battery packs. I've been working on a way to use these batteries interchangeably (like a flashlight) and NOT soldering them into a brick. My solution doesn't need a BMS or use a balance charger. Each battery is charged stand alone and then put into a reusable pack. I should have more on my channel in a couple of weeks. NOTE, aftermarket batteries like I intend to use void any warranties from Sondors.
Cheers for the reply Dan.Might well invest in one when I can find out the current price now June 2017.The price on the video was a couple of years ago.
I disagree with the fatter wheels having no other purpose other than marketing. I can assure you the added surface area & circular rigidity of the wheel allows for much heavier people to ride the bike without much worry of snapping a spoke in ruff terrain. I've ridden mostly 26" cruiser/mountain bike hybrids like the Giant Sedona & feel that your traditional 26" bicycle wheel can't support as much weight as this could. Let me know what you think?
Unfortunately, the strength of a wheel isn't increased with a larger rim or tire. The most important factor of wheel strength is its build. A wheel built with mediocre parts by an actual wheelsmith would be far stronger and last longer than one built with premium parts but by an amateur.
David Burckhard I know it's a year ago but do you supply Sondors bikes to people. I live in U.K. but have no time for this money up front and wait till everyone else gives money as a collective.Though I understand the thesis of this type of scheme resulting in you being able to bulk buy ,making something for your trouble and passing the cheaper price to us the other buyers. Do you sell Confess bikes to sell just now .If so could you give me a price for price and shipping and also any information about the LCD so I can ovetide any speed limitations.It would be for private ground use only as I hsve a legal 250w 15mph ebike.Cheers.
I've been thinking about getting this bike, I need something for daily commute of only 5 miles one way. I also would like something I could take to the simple local bike trails, I live in Colo Springs and would actually like to take it for rides in the Garden of the Gods my favorite place to go walk. Do you think this bike would be a good fit for that? I've been a bit concerned about the hefty weight of it and off road going up and down small rocks on the paths not sure if it would impact it or not. I guess it is also worth mentioning that I haven't even had a bike since I was a kid basically but really enjoy the workout. Thanks
Hello David...Let me ask you something. Im kinda looking into buying the Sonders bike. But, since I'm 6'1" I'm concerned that the bikes height wouldn't be adequate. You and your brother to be pretty tall. Would the height be a problem for me.
15 or 50 miles combined peddling and battery assist. I cannot understand what you are saying. This would ultimately determine whether I would purchase this e bike or not
You will never get anywhere near 50 miles on this bike. If you pedal on mostly flat, paved ground with no head wind and weigh under 150lbs, you might get about 15 miles (with pedalling). Keep in mind this bike is very heavy and has a LOT of rolling resistance and is a single gear bike! It's also not REALLY $499! You have pay shipping from China AND you have to wait for them to send it, which could take months. Shipping is well over $100!
tarstarkusz this video is older and an older model. They now come with 7 gears, a 500w motor, 48 volts and 17.5 Ah lithium battery with upgrading in certain configurations. Rider weight, wind, road surface as well as terrain slope will always fluctuate your range. You can always purchase an additional battery and or bring your laptop type charger to extend your range if convenient
The utter dishonesty in the E-bike market when it comes to range is hurting the market. They might as well mark the range as unlimited because if you pedal enough, it is unlimited. There needs to be a standard so that you can at least compare between 2 different bikes. Comparing the battery size is not all that useful when comparing different drive types and even the same drive types with different motors. I seriously doubt that they all lie equally, but if they did, then you could just compare the advertised range.
tarstarkusz been looking at RadRover lately. The battery is slightly less capacity at 14Ah with a bigger 750w motor which they advertise as having a 25-45 miles range. I will call the company next week and ask them what my range will be being 200lbs on flat paved terrain without wind. I expect around 30 miles at best in motor only mode. Seems like it’s getting slightly better reviews than Sondors so far. Check out EBR electric bike review.
Very nicely done review. The Quadcopter aerial camera really gives this review a professional quality. Can you tell us where this video was shot? Looks like an incredible trail with lots of natural beauty.
So update used you still recommend the Sondors original for a grand, now thats its 2019.Im thinking of getting one.Yey or nay?Yes ive read some reviews, mixed reviews.
Hi Erica, these days, there is a lot of competition in the ebike market. Sondors is still relevant and a good value. I've read other reviews and a lot of folks compare the Sondors with ebikes costing many times more. The Sondors bikes are for the types of riding that most folks do: Less than 10 miles, slow-paced, and not demanding too much from the rider. In that way, Sondors makes sense. If you plan on anything more serious, do check out other brands. I like their Thin line of bikes, essentially this review bike but with thinner wheels and tires. I've ridden one a bunch. I would suggest you get on Sondors mailing list. They often have good clearance and other sales.
So now in 2017 how much for the storm,if that's the basic onlý 20 mph bike.I live in Scotland UK Have full motorcycle licence so no problems there.I just need an all in price including shipping. Doesn't matter if its in dollars. I will soon convert.I have a granite pro batribike just now with throttle only and peddle assist but its road use and I'm going to upgrade it.Thanks
I would say "either" depending on how much you assist (or are assisted by) the motor. I could say 15 miles of total battery dependency, hills, full throttle acceleration and you weight more than 150. Nearly 90% of all bike rides in the U.S. are less than 10 miles so you have 50% margin if you're an average rider.
The range will vary between riders, going full throttle all the time, expect between 11 and 15 miles, if you use PAS level 1 @ 10 mph on level ground you can go 50 miles. Most average riders will have a 25 mile range.
I've been to their site and all it really gives me is info on the motor and a little knowledge with the bike's speed. But any respectful cyclist/owner is going to want to know things like... Example -- Rotors: SRAM Centerline 160/160mm Cog Set: Sunrace 11 speed, 11-46 Rear Derailure: Shimano SLX RD-7000 GS 11 speed If they can't provide info/details like that, whether it be on their site AND in the owner's manual, then I feel strongly unsure about the integrity of the bike & the company.
Go to Luna Cycles, the Befang mid drive kits are much better than hub motors. Also these bikes are way under powered compared to what you can get at Luna.
Nice review. personally i think fat bikes are silly unless riding on the beach or snow. too slow. You sound like you would notice this but when you say "turns into corners " this sensation can be caused by an overly tight headset.
Twist throttles create more problems for n00bs. Moving a bike with a twist throttle is easy to accidentally twist and crash. Seen it and had dozens of customer change to thumb throttles.
Fat tires are more stable on beaches, sandy environments , and loose gravel. I have never seen an ad where hydraulic brakes are claimed to be included. Mechanical disc is plenty. This video comes off a condescending. It wont the last video along these lines. If you want to know about the Sondors ebikes. Go to a group where you will find lots of owners who already have found out the flaws and needed improvements. Facebook groups are many and always helpful. I have 1400 plus miles on mine. Many of my online friends have double and triple that, some even more.
It has 5 point power supply. You can choose a 1, where you have to do most of the work. Or you can choose a 5 where the bike does it all. You just go through the motion of peddling. The lever throttle is the best way to begin your ride. Get on and go. Once you are moving, you can select how much contribution you want to make along the way. The more you contribute, as I understand it, the farther the thing will go on a given ride. And of course, you will get more needed exercise. :)
i bought an e bike because of the hills where i live there is no way i could make it back up the hills where i stay on a normal bike ffs i have to take a breather just walking but i zipped up no probs on full assist i would tell anyone to get one who is getting on a bit better than a old person buggy
Very honest review, I've gotten used to the fat tires and really enjoy riding on the beach. Our Facebook group is nearly 3300 members strong with some of the best information on the bike. facebook.com/groups/StormOwnersGroup
dont care about the bike lol...but those super nice dedicated paved bike trails are just so onviting to ride awaybunmotorized hehe....and yet your ebike sounds good enough and fat tires do kinda make sense for that design.
This review could have been a lot better. Instead of watching you ride around in circles while talking about how to turn on the power you could have showed us where the toggle switch at the battery housing is??? Is it easily reachable when you are riding? Since you are one a bike why not pedal? Some of us have to have one that does full power rather than only rider assist either because of a disability or because we are too fat and are looking for something to pedal when we can and not when we can't. Also all that video time of you just standing their holding the bike could have been better used showing us the various features. You listed all of the things you thought were wrong with the bike without showing us any of them??? Not all of us are riders. This would be my first bike in over 20 years.
Buyer beware! When your battery fails year one they will ignore you and prove to you that the warranty is useless. Out of the three bikes I bought only one battery ended up working more than four months. So just buy three of them if you want one to work and maybe this is how you can win with Sondors
do your research these tires are great for all terrain. some bike companys get on youtube and bash the Sondors because people are buying them instead of their over priced ebikes.
I've had a better experience with MY Sonders e-bike than this guy in the video! I'm 300 lbs, and this thing CRUISES! On the down side, there aren't any real instructions that come with it...like should I open up the case to turn the battery off EVERY TIME that I put the bike away or can I just push the button on the handle bar to turn the battery off completely? AS it is, I get about TEN miles to the charge, whereas this video states THIRTY miles per charge. Over all, I'm really happy with this purchase.
Have you ridden in the Middle of the Winter? Fat Tires is the only way to go. It may not be worth for Summer but winter or Sand the size of your tire matters. BTW this bike is crap.
subzero_ vapes I'm also looking at the "X" model. Best bike and features for the price, even when fully optioned out. $1,253 to my door. If you did get this bike, let me know what you think of it.
You keep saying that fat tires are virtually useless...go ride in the snow or sand with your regular mountain bike and then try a properly calibrated fat bike. You'll QUICKLY understand why fat tire bikes are superior to regular mountain bikes in almost every way. They can do things and go places that regular mountain bikes just can't. That is a FACT.
Wait -- I'm to understand that when I "buy" one of these, it's a "contribution" toward helping them meet their goal of being able to make them? And then after I pay, they'll send me the bike the next time they feel like it? What happens if they don't meet their goal? Something's gay about this...
Crowd funding is no different than an investment. It is, in fact, an investment. Just like funding Apple Computer before it built its first computer and making a 10,000% profit you can win if you take a big risk. Or, just like funding Pet.com when it started, you can also lose. However, funding through Indiegogo and similar also makes terms clear and obligates the fundee to restrictions. Sondors offered its first batch of bikes at $499 before the first one was produced and shipped. Today, remarkably, Sondors still offers the bike and versions of it and has been shipping thousands for the same price. The risk is much lower and the price is the same. If that's gay, you might want to reconsider your orientation.
lol, why bother to get this bike then if you still have to peddle it when you apply the power. lame. Just get a china made Scooter for $600 and save more money and go faster and get 100+ miles to the gallon.
Lots of reasons! The scooter is dirty for the environment, gasoline costs keep rising, you are a fool if you don't insure the scooter for liability, your body doesn't get any exercise value out of your ride, the bike is quiet when you are riding along, etc...
I've been following them since the start and have finally jumped in with the SONDORS XS. Looking forward to commuting with this baby once the weather starts improving. Hoping the car company finds success.
Nice review, very fair.
I LOVE my Sondors Thin. I had my bike tech have a look at it and he was scratching his head when I told him the price. $700 delivered to your door. I added the LED controller to unlock pedal assist up to 5 and a back rack that I use for add on batteries.
Pure fun right out of the box. I can't wait for it to cool down a little here in Phoenix so I can ride more often.
My brother has the This version. It handles far better and accelerates a bit faster than the fat tire version. I'm fully sold on the bike's practicality and believe it makes perfect sense as an urban conqueror.
mountain bike version coming soon with 29's
Very well done video, and honest assessment. I knew at the beginning of the video when you said you had 50 years experience, that you were going to like this bike.
Yes! I was right! In the beginning of the video, I had a feeling that was Sacramento. I lived there for a few years. Great place. Oh, and great review video.
Awesome job with the video. I have two Sondors fat bikes and absolutely love them! Your review was helpful getting a better feel before purchasing. Thanks!
I disagree. As an owner of 2 Sondors ebikes, My lady and I are 56 yrs old and a little overweight, as are a great percentage of Sondors owners. We bought these bikes primarily as secondary / alternative transportation at home and as primary transportation when we are traveling on our boat. We do not use the electric power as "assistance" we use throttle only and pedaling is entirely optional depending on how we feel physically. I hardly ever pedal. I weigh approx. 270lbs, I carry a lot of gear and an extra battery. :-) My Lady pedals Most of the time and pulls our single wheel trailer when needed to carry massive amounts of groceries and ice. the trailer carries up to 100lbs and she doesn't even notice it behind her most of the time. the brakes are entirely adequate even at this weight and going down pretty steep inclines as we live in the foothills. "there is nothing that makes a fat tire more stable than a skinny tire"?? The tires are not just for spectacle, They allow us to ride on any surface confidently. Sand, Snow, dirt trails etc. (you can ride these bikes just about anywhere you can take a snowmobile or 4X4 with confidence.) there are a lot of videos showing how much more stable they are. So as you can see I (as well as a LOT of Sondors owners) disagree with a lot of your "honest" evaluation. I don't think you are lying I just think maybe a little biased or ignorant. And I mean ignorant in the respectful sense as you may not have evaluated it in the real world (us being older and overweight) and not so athletically inclined, as well as riding these in places we would never take a "skinny tire" bike. Overall I think your video is well produced and one of the best I've seen and I will share it.
Thanks for the reply and comment. Yes, you are correct, you can ride this bike purely allowing the motor to propel you without pedaling input. However, I've found that even light pedaling extends the range greatly.
There's no argument that a fat tire has any more stability than a skinny tire. A fat tire does have more physical room to absorb an impact and laying down a slightly larger contact patch is its greatest advantage. But those same benefits also add rolling resistance and lower range given everything else equal.
In as much as a fat tire's advantage over snow and sand, I agree it may have the ability to float better but that advantage is only slight. I'm no lightweight rider and have ridden hundreds of miles over sand and snow with conventional tires beneath me. I was fully confident on the snow covered route 1,200 feet up the cliff on Lake Tahoe's famous Flume Trail with lightly treaded, cross-country knobs on conventional rubber. Fat tired equipped bikes that buddies pedaled had no seeming advantage and they admitted the climb up to the Flume was harder because of the extra rolling weight and resistance. They also wished for their conventional tires coming down the icy technical trail on the return, again because of slow handling. I will admit that perception of performance goes a long way in judging a bike and if a particular tire seems to work, then, yes, it works. By the way, I have a buddy who weighed 300 pounds when he rode across the country some over dirt roads. His touring bike was equipped with 23mm tires. That's about a fifth the size of the Sondors rubber.
Thanks again for the comments and have fun on your bike.
+Evergreen Business Association
Sir, You say this, "There's no argument that a fat tire has any more stability than a skinny tire. A fat tire does have more physical room to absorb an impact and laying down a slightly larger contact patch is its greatest advantage." and then you add a "but" and begin to spew sour grapes trying to compare Mt Bike to Electric Fat bike. Your first statement was correct, However these tires when fully inflated and being folding bead (much lighter) can have LESS rolling resistance. You know a lot about Mt biking that's a fact, You're just a little challenged when it comes to physics IMO. Besides you are negating the "Electric" and assist which is the reason you now FLY past your buddy's on any hills and ANY surfaces who are still "stuck" on Mt bikes, You probably ride Sondors all the time now with a HUGE smile on your face just like the rest of us. Why not be honest and just say that? by the way Sondors owners have logged hundreds of thousands of miles and 10's of thousands of miles off road in EVERY condition now. Take a look at the Social network on Facebook: Sondors Storm Owners Group and others Thousands of like minded Storm Zombies or the Sondors Groupie Group on Facebook :-) P.S. Air your tires up to 20psi (Max) and hang on tight my silly friend
your comment is exxxxxacctlyyyyy what I was looking for. was wondering if you could use throttle only... I'm a big dude and want to go for five to ten miles rides but might want to go pedal free on the way back home lol. does it hit speeds of 20 mph with throttle only?
Totally agree. I weigh 260 and was on the Sondors Thin yesterday for about two hours in 90 degree heat (sorry East Coast) and hardly broke a sweat. I've been using the standard battery exclusively.
I'm working on another battery system using 18650 batteries reclaimed from old laptop battery packs. I've been working on a way to use these batteries interchangeably (like a flashlight) and NOT soldering them into a brick. My solution doesn't need a BMS or use a balance charger. Each battery is charged stand alone and then put into a reusable pack. I should have more on my channel in a couple of weeks.
NOTE, aftermarket batteries like I intend to use void any warranties from Sondors.
Cheers for the reply Dan.Might well invest in one when I can find out the current price now June 2017.The price on the video was a couple of years ago.
If you google search velomobile shop they also have low profile 3.5 inch tires for the sonders e bike
+The13thGuest www.velomobileshop.com. We have lots of tires options now. :)
A great video overview of the Sondors e-bike. I ended up buying the Sondors thin bike and am very happy with it.
Joe Haupt how long did it take to receive the bike. I was told 3 months?
I disagree with the fatter wheels having no other purpose other than marketing. I can assure you the added surface area & circular rigidity of the wheel allows for much heavier people to ride the bike without much worry of snapping a spoke in ruff terrain. I've ridden mostly 26" cruiser/mountain bike hybrids like the Giant Sedona & feel that your traditional 26" bicycle wheel can't support as much weight as this could. Let me know what you think?
Unfortunately, the strength of a wheel isn't increased with a larger rim or tire. The most important factor of wheel strength is its build. A wheel built with mediocre parts by an actual wheelsmith would be far stronger and last longer than one built with premium parts but by an amateur.
David Burckhard I know it's a year ago but do you supply Sondors bikes to people. I live in U.K. but have no time for this money up front and wait till everyone else gives money as a collective.Though I understand the thesis of this type of scheme resulting in you being able to bulk buy ,making something for your trouble and passing the cheaper price to us the other buyers. Do you sell Confess bikes to sell just now .If so could you give me a price for price and shipping and also any information about the LCD so I can ovetide any speed limitations.It would be for private ground use only as I hsve a legal 250w 15mph ebike.Cheers.
David Burckhard the fat tires make it easy to ride through soft ground like sand or gravel, which is obviously really hard on normal tires
The fatter tires are more for off road and unforgiving trails. They make good winter bikes if you need one too, you just glide through the snow
@@ninjaOboyExactly, for anyone who live in the country you-know-what what thenfatbrires are useful
Great looking video, and very informative. Would love a chance to ride some of those tracks if only I was in the right country.
Hello. Who is the manufacturer of this bike carrier in your video at 3:24?
Wow I live next to the trails you rode. Love lake Nimbus.
I've been thinking about getting this bike, I need something for daily commute of only 5 miles one way. I also would like something I could take to the simple local bike trails, I live in Colo Springs and would actually like to take it for rides in the Garden of the Gods my favorite place to go walk. Do you think this bike would be a good fit for that? I've been a bit concerned about the hefty weight of it and off road going up and down small rocks on the paths not sure if it would impact it or not. I guess it is also worth mentioning that I haven't even had a bike since I was a kid basically but really enjoy the workout. Thanks
Thanks for nice review! Isn't fat tires better off-road especially in the sand?
Yup
This is really a good review video. I don't understand why it doesn't have a lot more views.
Really nice drone footage, wow. What's your drone? What else do you film with it? Is this the best review of the sondors ebike on youtube? Good job.
We used a DJI. We also shot footage with a point-and-shoot. All garden variety, consumer stuff.
Try throwing some vee rubber speedster tires (26 x 3.5)on the rim. These should be good for city and small pot holes!
THANK YOU FOR THIS VIDEO, Proved real value in working out what I'm looking for. Cheers
The new mxs has all the upgrades he mentioned and more. That's the one I'm getting soon.
Hello David...Let me ask you something. Im kinda looking into buying the Sonders bike. But, since I'm 6'1" I'm concerned that the bikes height wouldn't be adequate. You and your brother to be pretty tall. Would the height be a problem for me.
Great review! Thanks!
So can you tell me what kind of a bike rack this is? My husband and I need one that goes on the back of our truck....
15 or 50 miles combined peddling and battery assist. I cannot understand what you are saying. This would ultimately determine whether I would purchase this e bike or not
You will never get anywhere near 50 miles on this bike. If you pedal on mostly flat, paved ground with no head wind and weigh under 150lbs, you might get about 15 miles (with pedalling). Keep in mind this bike is very heavy and has a LOT of rolling resistance and is a single gear bike! It's also not REALLY $499! You have pay shipping from China AND you have to wait for them to send it, which could take months. Shipping is well over $100!
tarstarkusz this video is older and an older model. They now come with 7 gears, a 500w motor, 48 volts and 17.5 Ah lithium battery with upgrading in certain configurations. Rider weight, wind, road surface as well as terrain slope will always fluctuate your range. You can always purchase an additional battery and or bring your laptop type charger to extend your range if convenient
The utter dishonesty in the E-bike market when it comes to range is hurting the market. They might as well mark the range as unlimited because if you pedal enough, it is unlimited.
There needs to be a standard so that you can at least compare between 2 different bikes. Comparing the battery size is not all that useful when comparing different drive types and even the same drive types with different motors. I seriously doubt that they all lie equally, but if they did, then you could just compare the advertised range.
tarstarkusz been looking at RadRover lately. The battery is slightly less capacity at 14Ah with a bigger 750w motor which they advertise as having a 25-45 miles range. I will call the company next week and ask them what my range will be being 200lbs on flat paved terrain without wind. I expect around 30 miles at best in motor only mode. Seems like it’s getting slightly better reviews than Sondors so far. Check out EBR electric bike review.
Very nicely done review. The Quadcopter aerial camera really gives this review a professional quality. Can you tell us where this video was shot? Looks like an incredible trail with lots of natural beauty.
Hi Brian,
Thanks for the nice comments. The coverage happened in and around Folsom, CA, and the adjacent American River Trail.
This video is now quite dated. It would be interesting to hear your comments now in 2019 of what SONDORS is offering.
Awesome review WOW, great job.
I prefer my ebike to look like normal bike. especially to to deter thieves!
So update used you still recommend the Sondors original for a grand, now thats its 2019.Im thinking of getting one.Yey or nay?Yes ive read some reviews, mixed reviews.
Hi Erica, these days, there is a lot of competition in the ebike market. Sondors is still relevant and a good value. I've read other reviews and a lot of folks compare the Sondors with ebikes costing many times more. The Sondors bikes are for the types of riding that most folks do: Less than 10 miles, slow-paced, and not demanding too much from the rider. In that way, Sondors makes sense. If you plan on anything more serious, do check out other brands. I like their Thin line of bikes, essentially this review bike but with thinner wheels and tires. I've ridden one a bunch. I would suggest you get on Sondors mailing list. They often have good clearance and other sales.
Yeah David I bought the Thin new version.Forks suspension and LCD.Should be here on the 19th of March.Pretty hyped about it.@@sweeperdave1
what is the highest speed? and how many hours does it need to charge to ( and what is its ) highest milage per charge?
What a fun bike and a very good review.
Has Cahill been to North Padre?
what size is the wheel on the fat bike need to know for rear cargo rack.
thanks for the infotmative video. are there any dealers in tty he usa? or do we have to buy directly from the manufacturer who is in china ibassume.
You have to buy it directly from the Sondors website.
Soo, How Much Does The Standered Version of This Ebike CosT ? 🙄
does the end pop out of the grip to be able to add a mirror?
This was a well done video!
Never saw the part where you adjust the governor.
Is this bike still working well?
So now in 2017 how much for the storm,if that's the basic onlý 20 mph bike.I live in Scotland UK Have full motorcycle licence so no problems there.I just need an all in price including shipping. Doesn't matter if its in dollars. I will soon convert.I have a granite pro batribike just now with throttle only and peddle assist but its road use and I'm going to upgrade it.Thanks
You don't need any licenses for an E-bike. If it has manual pedals, you don't need a license.
When you mention the range, it is unclear if you are saying "50" miles or "15" miles per charge. Please clarify.
I would say "either" depending on how much you assist (or are assisted by) the motor. I could say 15 miles of total battery dependency, hills, full throttle acceleration and you weight more than 150. Nearly 90% of all bike rides in the U.S. are less than 10 miles so you have 50% margin if you're an average rider.
The range will vary between riders, going full throttle all the time, expect between 11 and 15 miles, if you use PAS level 1 @ 10 mph on level ground you can go 50 miles. Most average riders will have a 25 mile range.
Thanks for the info, Bruce.
I've been to their site and all it really gives me is info on the motor and a little knowledge with the bike's speed. But any respectful cyclist/owner is going to want to know things like...
Example -- Rotors: SRAM Centerline 160/160mm
Cog Set: Sunrace 11 speed, 11-46
Rear Derailure: Shimano SLX RD-7000 GS 11 speed
If they can't provide info/details like that, whether it be on their site AND in the owner's manual, then I feel strongly unsure about the integrity of the bike & the company.
Nice love it affordable prices
At 6:02 hes standing peddling until 6:07 he sits back down & says The power allowed him to reach the top while remaining seated " lol
Go to Luna Cycles, the Befang mid drive kits are much better than hub motors. Also these bikes are way under powered compared to what you can get at Luna.
Nice review. personally i think fat bikes are silly unless riding on the beach or snow. too slow. You sound like you would notice this but when you say "turns into corners " this sensation can be caused by an overly tight headset.
Sondors has a thin version on 700c rims and is coming out with a few new models soon including a 29er.
Twist throttles create more problems for n00bs. Moving a bike with a twist throttle is easy to accidentally twist and crash. Seen it and had dozens of customer change to thumb throttles.
And in a wet, cool climate ??
hello I am from India so how could I get this?
Those tyres are far to thick. You will lose a lot of power with those.
Is it because the roads in the US are that bad?
Fat tires are more stable on beaches, sandy environments , and loose gravel. I have never seen an ad where hydraulic brakes are claimed to be included. Mechanical disc is plenty. This video comes off a condescending. It wont the last video along these lines. If you want to know about the Sondors ebikes. Go to a group where you will find lots of owners who already have found out the flaws and needed improvements. Facebook groups are many and always helpful. I have 1400 plus miles on mine. Many of my online friends have double and triple that, some even more.
916!!!! Valley of kings!
I saw a guy could not put his bike on a DART bus because his tires were too big. They look like Sondors size.
What is that bike rack you have there?
Hi Ted. It's a Kuat. Thule offers a similar platform rack. Both can accommodate the Sondors bike.
I'd love to buy the frame and put my own motor on it
You can buy fat tire bikes at Costco.
Does it have a mode when you don’t have to pedal
It has 5 point power supply. You can choose a 1, where you have to do most of the work. Or you can choose a 5 where the bike does it all. You just go through the motion of peddling. The lever throttle is the best way to begin your ride. Get on and go. Once you are moving, you can select how much contribution you want to make along the way. The more you contribute, as I understand it, the farther the thing will go on a given ride. And of course, you will get more needed exercise. :)
i bought an e bike because of the hills where i live there is no way i could make it back up the hills where i stay on a normal bike ffs i have to take a breather just walking but i zipped up no probs on full assist i would tell anyone to get one who is getting on a bit better than a old person buggy
Looks like the poster doesnt respond to comments
Very honest review, I've gotten used to the fat tires and really enjoy riding on the beach. Our Facebook group is nearly 3300 members strong with some of the best information on the bike. facebook.com/groups/StormOwnersGroup
i am 5 '1' will this fit me
The fat tires provide stability, that's just physics
dont care about the bike lol...but those super nice dedicated paved bike trails are just so onviting to ride awaybunmotorized hehe....and yet your ebike sounds good enough and fat tires do kinda make sense for that design.
This review could have been a lot better. Instead of watching you ride around in circles while talking about how to turn on the power you could have showed us where the toggle switch at the battery housing is??? Is it easily reachable when you are riding? Since you are one a bike why not pedal? Some of us have to have one that does full power rather than only rider assist either because of a disability or because we are too fat and are looking for something to pedal when we can and not when we can't. Also all that video time of you just standing their holding the bike could have been better used showing us the various features. You listed all of the things you thought were wrong with the bike without showing us any of them??? Not all of us are riders. This would be my first bike in over 20 years.
Anyone know what's the top speed on a 48 volt 2000 watt storm. Seen one for sale online and curious how fast it can go .
30 mph
Fat tires are for all terrain if you rode bikes for 50 years you should know that
Buyer beware! When your battery fails year one they will ignore you and prove to you that the warranty is useless. Out of the three bikes I bought only one battery ended up working more than four months. So just buy three of them if you want one to work and maybe this is how you can win with Sondors
great review
do your research these tires are great for all terrain. some bike companys get on youtube and bash the Sondors because people are buying them instead of their over priced ebikes.
Your seatpost is just a smidge too high.
I have the black and gold one
They're good stock, but even better with upgrades... :) I made a video on how to make it faster here: th-cam.com/video/T1rbYCYDzzs/w-d-xo.html&t
I think you've been very kind to what seems like a poorly made bike with poor quality components.
Does anybody know how to factory reset them
I don't know but you can contact Sondors here:
sondors.com/pages/contact
need one now
Dude you should narrate travel channel
very nice bike!
this is an awesome bike
how much???????
500
I've had a better experience with MY Sonders e-bike than this guy in the video! I'm 300 lbs, and this thing CRUISES! On the down side, there aren't any real instructions that come with it...like should I open up the case to turn the battery off EVERY TIME that I put the bike away or can I just push the button on the handle bar to turn the battery off completely? AS it is, I get about TEN miles to the charge, whereas this video states THIRTY miles per charge. Over all, I'm really happy with this purchase.
Have you ridden in the Middle of the Winter? Fat Tires is the only way to go. It may not be worth for Summer but winter or Sand the size of your tire matters.
BTW this bike is crap.
subzero_ vapes I'm also looking at the "X" model. Best bike and features for the price, even when fully optioned out. $1,253 to my door.
If you did get this bike, let me know what you think of it.
Not much for sondors I think there ok but you only get what you pay for !!!! Battery is short life if you only use the throttle
This sounds like an ad. #ad?
You keep saying that fat tires are virtually useless...go ride in the snow or sand with your regular mountain bike and then try a properly calibrated fat bike. You'll QUICKLY understand why fat tire bikes are superior to regular mountain bikes in almost every way. They can do things and go places that regular mountain bikes just can't. That is a FACT.
nice bike
Loving my Sondors X! Thanks Storm!! th-cam.com/video/Cs4QbIWcB2I/w-d-xo.html
You forgot to tell them what loasy bikes Sonders are and there crap customer service dept.
"Thanks Sondors"
Can I break a Sondors Ebike?
th-cam.com/video/IEXnvwNjqp8/w-d-xo.html
Wait -- I'm to understand that when I "buy" one of these, it's a "contribution" toward helping them meet their goal of being able to make them? And then after I pay, they'll send me the bike the next time they feel like it? What happens if they don't meet their goal? Something's gay about this...
Crowd funding is no different than an investment. It is, in fact, an investment. Just like funding Apple Computer before it built its first computer and making a 10,000% profit you can win if you take a big risk. Or, just like funding Pet.com when it started, you can also lose. However, funding through Indiegogo and similar also makes terms clear and obligates the fundee to restrictions. Sondors offered its first batch of bikes at $499 before the first one was produced and shipped. Today, remarkably, Sondors still offers the bike and versions of it and has been shipping thousands for the same price. The risk is much lower and the price is the same. If that's gay, you might want to reconsider your orientation.
Yet more videos that feel the need to add annoying background music! I managed 5 mins...
you said sit down on up grade but you started but up. i not buying this sweet talk man- rad mini rules!
WALK YA LAZY B........ HEEHEE ..
You need steroids to lift 50 pounds?
lol, why bother to get this bike then if you still have to peddle it when you apply the power. lame. Just get a china made Scooter for $600 and save more money and go faster and get 100+ miles to the gallon.
Lots of reasons! The scooter is dirty for the environment, gasoline costs keep rising, you are a fool if you don't insure the scooter for liability, your body doesn't get any exercise value out of your ride, the bike is quiet when you are riding along, etc...
It has a throttle and PAS.
price? it costs like 1000 dollars u kidding me
Does it have a mode when you don’t have to pedal