I got this a few months ago and joined several group rides. It took a while for them to figure out I was on an ebike until I started dropping them on steep inclines. Otherwise, it remains on level 0 throughout the rides because I'm nice.
Would appreciate seeing a video of the tire and/or tube changing process. Looks like a hassle in the shop with no disconnect on the cable (like they have on their other bikes) and a bigger problem on the road. I live in the SW too and fixing flats is as you know a way of life. Other than that, video well done. I like that you brought in your mechanic for his opinion.
Agreed, I find levels 1-3 a re best and allow me to still get in a good workout for a bit longer than on my dedicated road bike. Great bike Kofa! -Mike
This is the best review I've come across on this bike. Well done! A month ago I was ready to purchase this bike, to replace my 2018 Giant Defy, until I found out there is no warranty for Canadian (where I live) buyers. Unfortunately, that's a deal breaker for me, which is a shame, since I really like this bike the and price is very reasonable.
If you get the chance, try and ride one, it uses the R1CBS system which measures current and cadence to deliver power in a way that feels much more like a torque sensor. Its worth a look if you get the chance! - Mike
@@Yardie_in_Tampa I’m still interested in this bike but want to ride one to see if the EBR description is accurate. Have no idea where I’ll be able to do that…
Great review I’m curious as to why the computer does not show any cadence information since this is something that any professional cyclist would want to know I wonder if this is something that can be updated via software
Its not a cycling computer. For actual cycling HR is the single most important thing, then speed, then cadence and slope. Power if you have a meter is right behind HR. No cyclists is going to use this thing for actual workout rides.
I’m going to upgrade the wheel set to some tubeless aluminum WTB’s so I can run tubeless and fatter 45mm-55mm gravel racing tires. I’ll also be swapping out for better pedals that’ll work clipless or with normal shoes for commuting. Ordered one that should be arriving soon.
That's awesome, I think you're going to love the upgrades! I just put 45c Schwalbe G-One Bites on with no fit issues. Good call on the wider WTB's as the internal width of the stock wheels is just too narrow to go wide gravel tires. I think these bikes are crazy good value, even if you upgrade a few small areas, specifically wheels/tires, its just a really solid deal. Happy gravel trials! -Mike
I want a gravel eBike to help me go on short bike packing trips, but I'm concerned that the added weight from the gear will tip me over the weight limit. Has anyone here added full panniers to the CF Racer 1?
Hey there, While I haven't packed up the extra weight to hit the 225lb max, I weigh about 180 and did a few trips with about 10-20 extra pounds. (so around 200 lbs) on the CF Racer and it performed well. I will say at full max capacity I think the bike will do fine, but, you will likely lose some range and hill climbing power, not a ton, but it will be affected. -Mike
Yo Hoss! I'd say go for the Large size, often Ride1Up frames feel a bit undersized (in my opinion) and opting for the larger one might be the best bet. Awesome bike man! You certainly dont have to, but if you feel like supporting the channel, using this link will help support the reviews. -Mike. Link 👉 ebreviewdeals.com/CF-Racer1
Good catch, so, I'm updating this comment since I spoke with our mechanic and it turns out I was incorrect, the battery can be removed by removing the underside cover plate, then removing the controller and finally the battery. So, it looks like in the event of a battery issue, you do have some options which is good to know. Cheers! - Mike
@@ElectricBikeReviewThat’s a real shame. Batteries don’t last forever, and at that point, the entire bike becomes e-waste. I’d give up some sleekness to be able to remove and replace the battery. Not being able to remove also means you need a power source where you store the bike, and it also means very non optimal storage temps for those storing in detached garages or sheds where it gets very cold or hot.
I was all about it until I seen that motor wire on the back. Not having a quick disconnect in the event of a road side repair is hell of a deal breaker.
Its a fair point that I had to deal with on a ride, not impossible but not fun. Personally, for the price, if I owned it, id go tubeless (which means new wheels). But, then life would be much easier for most flat scenarios. While your at it, go carbon wheels and shave off another 2 pounds 😎. My wallet cant keep up with my habits! -Mike
I just looked up the bike. The one complaint I have are the ridiculously narrow rims. Even the gravel version wheels have only a 17.5mm internal width. The road has a 17mm internal width. And then the road version has 40mm deep aluminum wheels. The extra depth, I guess, is just for visual. They have to weigh a ton! The wheels cannot easily be changed given the hub drive. They could have gone with better wheels for the same price.
@@NusinkisTV Try your local bike shop. You can replace your front wheel without a problem and the lbs would be able to build the wheel on the hub motor.
10:45, what are the odds a person is going to fit this exact stem length? Very low!!!!!! One piece bars and stems are only good after you determine your best stem length and angle.
If you are a serious cyclist this would be the deal of the century. For this kinda spec you are looking at over $3,000 for a non ebike from the competition and over 5k for an ebike with similar specs.
@@michaelsprinzeles4022 actually all road bikes do not have suspension at all. So even the rider's weight is unsprung. So a little motor isn't going to make a huge difference.
@@shamendra.sakthivel For the price I'd prefer a mid-drive, even if it meant a bike made of heavier material. While nice, I still don't see this bike as a "value".
@@michaelsprinzeles4022 oh please…”mid drive” is used by snobs who are insecure on “looks”. “mid drive” is garbage when it breaks completely making the bike useless, and it wears the drive train down.
I got this a few months ago and joined several group rides. It took a while for them to figure out I was on an ebike until I started dropping them on steep inclines. Otherwise, it remains on level 0 throughout the rides because I'm nice.
Would appreciate seeing a video of the tire and/or tube changing process. Looks like a hassle in the shop with no disconnect on the cable (like they have on their other bikes) and a bigger problem on the road. I live in the SW too and fixing flats is as you know a way of life. Other than that, video well done. I like that you brought in your mechanic for his opinion.
You’re right, I need to get that done, it’s definitely a key thing for folks in the southwest. -Mike
I’ve had this bike for two months and it’s been great. I go up to level 3 at the most as 4-5 are really powerful.
Agreed, I find levels 1-3 a re best and allow me to still get in a good workout for a bit longer than on my dedicated road bike. Great bike Kofa! -Mike
This is the best review I've come across on this bike. Well done!
A month ago I was ready to purchase this bike, to replace my 2018 Giant Defy, until I found out there is no warranty for Canadian (where I live) buyers.
Unfortunately, that's a deal breaker for me, which is a shame, since I really like this bike the and price is very reasonable.
That's a fair point. I'd try reaching out to them to see how you could be covered, there may be some workarounds for you we didn't know about.
@@ElectricBikeReview I emailed them and was told the warranty stops at the border.
the 225 weight limit makes me feel like its too fragile, no ul certification is a deal breaker too.
Nearly ordered one, until I saw it still has a cadence sensor.
If you get the chance, try and ride one, it uses the R1CBS system which measures current and cadence to deliver power in a way that feels much more like a torque sensor. Its worth a look if you get the chance! - Mike
@@ElectricBikeReviewthanks for that explanation. Ordinarily a cadence sensor would be a dealbreaker for me.
@dondgc2298 so what you getting instead?
@@Yardie_in_Tampa I’m still interested in this bike but want to ride one to see if the EBR description is accurate. Have no idea where I’ll be able to do that…
Got this bike and I love it so much.
Just order one on Black friday deal for $2000 cannot wait
Dude, that was a nice choice! Its one of the bikes here I plan to make my own. -Mike
Solid review.. this one seems like a great hybrid of both worlds
Totally agree
Great review I’m curious as to why the computer does not show any cadence information since this is something that any professional cyclist would want to know
I wonder if this is something that can be updated via software
Its not a cycling computer. For actual cycling HR is the single most important thing, then speed, then cadence and slope. Power if you have a meter is right behind HR. No cyclists is going to use this thing for actual workout rides.
I’m going to upgrade the wheel set to some tubeless aluminum WTB’s so I can run tubeless and fatter 45mm-55mm gravel racing tires. I’ll also be swapping out for better pedals that’ll work clipless or with normal shoes for commuting. Ordered one that should be arriving soon.
That's awesome, I think you're going to love the upgrades! I just put 45c Schwalbe G-One Bites on with no fit issues. Good call on the wider WTB's as the internal width of the stock wheels is just too narrow to go wide gravel tires. I think these bikes are crazy good value, even if you upgrade a few small areas, specifically wheels/tires, its just a really solid deal. Happy gravel trials! -Mike
Any reason you went with the gray over the gloss black?
We were sent the grey for testing, we didn't get to pick, but they both have a really nice look, I don't think you can go wrong with either.
I want a gravel eBike to help me go on short bike packing trips, but I'm concerned that the added weight from the gear will tip me over the weight limit. Has anyone here added full panniers to the CF Racer 1?
Hey there, While I haven't packed up the extra weight to hit the 225lb max, I weigh about 180 and did a few trips with about 10-20 extra pounds. (so around 200 lbs) on the CF Racer and it performed well. I will say at full max capacity I think the bike will do fine, but, you will likely lose some range and hill climbing power, not a ton, but it will be affected. -Mike
Thanks for the review it was very helpful , if I am between two sizes like I am 5.8 do I go for small or large size - Please help me select - Thanks .
Yo Hoss! I'd say go for the Large size, often Ride1Up frames feel a bit undersized (in my opinion) and opting for the larger one might be the best bet. Awesome bike man! You certainly dont have to, but if you feel like supporting the channel, using this link will help support the reviews. -Mike. Link 👉 ebreviewdeals.com/CF-Racer1
You guys never mentioned if the battery is removable or not ( I don't think it is). So it can be a deal breaker for some....
Good catch, so, I'm updating this comment since I spoke with our mechanic and it turns out I was incorrect, the battery can be removed by removing the underside cover plate, then removing the controller and finally the battery. So, it looks like in the event of a battery issue, you do have some options which is good to know. Cheers! - Mike
@@ElectricBikeReviewThat’s a real shame. Batteries don’t last forever, and at that point, the entire bike becomes e-waste. I’d give up some sleekness to be able to remove and replace the battery. Not being able to remove also means you need a power source where you store the bike, and it also means very non optimal storage temps for those storing in detached garages or sheds where it gets very cold or hot.
Darn, that’s also a dealbreaker for me.
@@readyplayer2 I think if there is a problem with the battery it is possible to change it you just have to go to a bike shop...
@@gimbeault I seriously doubt that. There would be no way to get it out without destroying the frame.
Great review, but now my bike looks like a piece of poop
I was all about it until I seen that motor wire on the back. Not having a quick disconnect in the event of a road side repair is hell of a deal breaker.
Wondering about that too.
Its a fair point that I had to deal with on a ride, not impossible but not fun. Personally, for the price, if I owned it, id go tubeless (which means new wheels). But, then life would be much easier for most flat scenarios. While your at it, go carbon wheels and shave off another 2 pounds 😎. My wallet cant keep up with my habits! -Mike
@@ElectricBikeReview I’d pay extra for that from the manufacturer for sure.
I just looked up the bike. The one complaint I have are the ridiculously narrow rims. Even the gravel version wheels have only a 17.5mm internal width. The road has a 17mm internal width. And then the road version has 40mm deep aluminum wheels. The extra depth, I guess, is just for visual. They have to weigh a ton! The wheels cannot easily be changed given the hub drive. They could have gone with better wheels for the same price.
That's a fair point, but, with a final weight of just 28 lbs on an e-bike, I'm still pretty impressed.
@@ElectricBikeReview I fully agree! The wheel width was really my only complaint.
@@DaveCM
You could rebuild the wheel on some carbon hoops. Doesn't matter if it is a hub motor or not.
@@shamendra.sakthivel who can do that ? I have a Scott Addict eride and I want to change the wheels
@@NusinkisTV
Try your local bike shop. You can replace your front wheel without a problem and the lbs would be able to build the wheel on the hub motor.
Nice ride
Thanks! I had a good time on this one. -MIke
10:45, what are the odds a person is going to fit this exact stem length? Very low!!!!!! One piece bars and stems are only good after you determine your best stem length and angle.
I weigh 235LBS, am I gonna snap this bike? Or do I need to bust some ass in the gym first haha
Haha! I'm not sure if it will snap but I definitely recommend staying within the listed payload.
Get some better mics the audio isn't grea
Thanks for the heads up!
Light and pretty but $2300 with a powerless hub motor & cadence sensing. Hardly what I'd call a "value".
If you are a serious cyclist this would be the deal of the century. For this kinda spec you are looking at over $3,000 for a non ebike from the competition and over 5k for an ebike with similar specs.
@@shamendra.sakthivel No serious cyclist would accept the unsprung weight of a hub motor!
@@michaelsprinzeles4022 actually all road bikes do not have suspension at all. So even the rider's weight is unsprung. So a little motor isn't going to make a huge difference.
@@shamendra.sakthivel For the price I'd prefer a mid-drive, even if it meant a bike made of heavier material. While nice, I still don't see this bike as a "value".
@@michaelsprinzeles4022 oh please…”mid drive” is used by snobs who are insecure on “looks”. “mid drive” is garbage when it breaks completely making the bike useless, and it wears the drive train down.
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