ebike got me back on the road after being off the road for 20 years due to a injury, i cant tell you how much this has improved my welbeing, ebikes have opened the door for alot of disabled people, it can only be a good thing.
Thank you for taking time out to make these short films they’re really helpful. I’d love to buy an ebike. I suffered cardiac failure last year and don’t want to repeat it.....look after your hearts everybody. Using an exercise bike has got me back to a level where I can hit the roads and trails again.
I loved the final comments here about bringing more people back to cycling. Here's a short story about me: I'm 48 now and 240 pounds, but i used to be a very keen cyclist, 20 years ago I cycled around 16 miles a day. Then I moved to Scotland, and, believe it or not, there's a lot of hills here :) I've had a bike the whole time but motivating myself to get out and even commute on it when there's a couple of hundred feet in elevation in a 3 mile commute was challenging ! So about a year ago I started to look seriously at e-bikes and found this channel. After watching dozens of reviews I settled on Felt Verza E, which I bought around 5 weeks ago. I was concerned that the 250 watt limit here wouldn't be enough (I hadn't rode the bike or any electric bike before buying it) but It is fantastic ! The Bosch centre drive is amazing, the bike itself is beautifully made and I now use it every day to commute, to explore, to shop, everything. Climbing 12% gradient hills is done without trouble thanks to the ability to leverage the gears and the 15.5 mph limit is no real limit to me because the only time I go faster than that is downhills :) I'm a total convert and can't recommend them highly enough. I'm not sure how something with a gearless hub motor would fare with a heavier rider as I haven't tried one but anything with a Bosch centre drive, it will transform your life :)
I am 55, also an ex active cyclist. I had a hip replaced this year followed by spinal fusion of L4-5. I installed a Bafang BBS02 on a mountain bike and havent had so much fun in years! The speeds I can attain, though higher than I could achieve manually are still within reason. Its here to stay, let the haters hate. I read the wheel wasnt very well received in its day either ;-) Hard to beat the stealth like silence of the Bafang unit in operation. Not even as loud as my tires. Great unit as I am sure the Specialized is. Yesterday's ride was 18.3 miles, mostly off road. Loose sand and East Texas dirt. Averaged 14mph. FUN
He is right about it bringing in new folks to riding. My husband loves to ride but I could never keep up and now I get to go with him and enjoy it as well with my new electric bike.
Thank you, Court! I've really enjoyed the several videos you've done with Erik, from Peloton Cycles. These videos tell me what qualities I'd like to see in the salesperson I do business with at a bike shop. I've always felt that before one shops for their desired product, one should shop for the store, and salesperson they wish to do business with. I really appreciate your videos and website!
Nice interview. Bought a Radrover two weeks ago. My other non electric bike has been sitting in the shed for the last few years. Wow, what a difference. I have to say that it has not been all good news. I had 2 flats during this time. A lot of star thistle around my area. I used the electric assist to get me out of the canyon when my back tire went flat. Thanks to mobile phones, my ride was waiting at the top of the hill. E Bikes are here to stay. Used the green goop to fill the leaks. Headed out to the brewery tonight. An easy 3.5 mile ride over hills and yonder. Cruised at 16 mph on the way back.
My bike came with a 46t chain ring. I replaced that with a 44t (hills). I should have taken a link out of the chain because on the small rear cogs i get some slipping. Perhaps the "b" screw could fix this. I'm learning more about bicycles because of my electric build.
I'm 56 and recently retired do to major neck and back problems. I started riding my regular mountain bike and I was so sore afterwards it took me a week to get back on it. So I bought a cheap ebike added rock shox air forks and hydraulic disc brakes and I'm in woods 3 to 4 times a week riding my ebike. I look for my work outs on the steep hills and I'm getting in great shape. So people should keep there comment to there selves because people like me are grateful for something they can do to stay in shape when they can't do anything else!
I used to mountain bike a lot years ago. Rode hard and crashed a lot. Would love to get into an Ebike. Looks like a blast! So much to learn about it. Thanks for the video, great info.
Thanks, this is very useful information. One quibble: constantly referring to biking as a "sport". Biking is biking. It means many different things to different people, transportation being just one example of a non-sport use.
Definitely agree. For me, the e-bike is for transpo, fun, and fitness (throttle to work, pedal home). Most people on bikes in my area are using them as car replacements.
Great, A wealth of knowledge here! I cannot imagine where ebikes will be in 5 years. Where do we start with automation and technology upgrades, weight classes, etc.
Ebikes are the best thing since sliced bread. I hadn't rode a bike in 20 years now I'm all into it. I also feel my muscles tightening up all over cause I like to use pedal assist and am now getting some exercise. My town looks a lot different from a bike as opposed to a car. I have a bike trail next to my apt that goes for 10's of miles in different directions. There a really long trail next to a river with a paved trail and off road trails all over the place. My ebike folds up and now I can take it camping and fishing. And best of all, I get closer to cute women walking their dogs, riding or jogging. My brand new ebike got stolen...from me not knowing how to lock it up downtown. But, I got it back by doing some leg work with my investigative skills. Battery was missing but not another scratch on it. Now I just have to find more time to ride.
Great video, very informative conservative style interview, not a one sided lecture. Great, Great videoI bought my 48 volt e mountain bike, I, am an elderly crippled 60 yr. old, 3 back surgeries, elbow, stomach , I always loved bicycling, this is the most fun you can have with your clothes on, great exercise, great outdoor fun, fresh air, trail riding, roads too, unbelievable off road fun, I bang thru the gears accelerating, which is so smooth, its unbelievable, its goes so fast, my old eye sights getting a work out too, peddle assisted system is incredible, I got to go Ride my new ebike
Very informative, and all very true - as it would be coming from someone with as much knowledge and experience as Erik. I don't have any problems trail riding on an ebike in Australia - my local Giant dealer that is hugely into mountain biking and sponsoring teams has started selling the Dirt-E+2 and the Quick-E+. In my mid sized city of Brisbane there are 2 dedicated e-bike stores, and heaps of traditional bike stores are stocking e-bikes from Specialized, Focus, Merida, Scott, Giant etc... It looks like it's starting to take off! Great work on the vid - thanks mate!
I'm also in Brisbane Rob and a good friend of mine and myself are currently looking at grabbing a Specialized Turbo Levo. From what I've read and seen they're an incredibly awesome bike, just a shame about the price! Which ebike do you own?
Hi! I commute and do long rides on road and trails. I have a Focus Aventura. Bought mainly for the extra large battery and go anywhere capabilities - not mountain biking, though I do accidentally stray onto tracks where a MTB would be better suited. Going down a few tracks around Mt. Cootha certainly showed up my limited MTB experience! Don't worry about the sticker price of e-bikes in Brisbane shops, I got $500 off the price of my bike just by asking them. Electric Bikes Centre at Teneriffe are having a big sale right now - you could certainly be able to get a sizeable discount if you walked in ready to buy! www.electricbikecentre.com.au/
Rob Pennefather Yes I think it's great to see ebikes starting to take off and become popular! Yes they aren't cheap but it opens up a huge opportunity for so many people who wouldn't normally be able to ride long distances or for long periods to actually get out there and enjoy cycling. I'm not the fittest person out there but still want to enjoy riding MTB trails just as much as the pros. I'm sure I could with an ebike like the Turbo Levo. It's basically exactly the same bike as I have now, just with a motor really.
Hey Rob! I'm in Melbourne and have been looking at ebikes. Would you happen to have any good recommendations? Don't really want it to look super ebike style so it gets stolen but wouldn't mind it having some good juice/power too. There seems to be so much disparity in the market and its hard to find and buy :(
Hi. I have eBike model MATE X-750W. Battery 48V/14 Ah fail. On the side battery voltage 42V-when turn battery key to ignition position-drop to 0V. What can i do? Chris
Sure wish the Peleton Store would have let me know Eric was employed at their shop. I went in a couple of times to find out more about their e bikes in FoCo and no one really wanted to help or do anything, really, to make a sale. Get it together Peleton, you might actually sell one of those Levos
How did you decide on the expert Model of the Turbo Levo? I am interested in buying one myself. seems like a pound or two of weight is less important on an electric bike since it's electric
Ebike Tip: If you have a crazy high powered motor, your not using even a fraction of its capabilities. Limited by both the battery and controller module. It can only pull so much amperage.
I had an older bike with disc brakes and I sometimes wonder if it was one of the first to have discs ? Considering I can't remember its name I guess I will never know but anyhow ! As easy as it is to bleed brakes why would someone pay to have them bled? Sissy men that explains it all !
4:34 I burp my brakes more often than that several times in a year, pressure changes & brake pad wear means i have to burp the brakes. but I assume he means a full bleed, but this is a common mistake to just call everything for bleed. just to make it clear you might need to burp it several times & refill fluid, but full bleed thatch's 1 time in 1, 2 or 3 or more, it depends. he mentioned many good points, with mechanical you have to use Locktite 243 to secure the piston/pad adjustment, and of course wires have to be tightened, but with hydraulic brakes you have to refill them to get get same performance with pads that are not new, I use 4 zipties to get perfect burp or bleed. but Hayes makes a tool that does the same job, I want that tool.
Been watching all of your videos and have got a lot of good info. I kind of know what I'm looking for but I wanted to ask: Should I buy a used ebike like off of craigslist or is there better places for this? Or do I even want to buy a used ebike? I'm here in the Denver area. Any advice would be appreciated.
The electric bicycle companies are going to eliminate the chain in short order! The new gear in town is ceramic and the 1st ebikes with this fantastic new gear is on the road already! To eliminate the chain is a great leap forward! Get with the program, guys!
It's an open subject that brings a means to an end people need food an they need away to go get that for me in the last three years the distance I must travel has gone from 150 yards to three miles I find my self looking at a E- Bike the same way a farmer looks at his pickup truck while for some people it's fun for others like my self it's a tool who said work can't be fun
I don't know about the 'sport', but ebikes are the only thing making me want to buy a bike, which I never have, as I've had the same hand-me-down [not-e]bike for over a decade. I don't use it much because it's less fun than the increased speed of when I rode and ebike, and it kinda kinds to hit the... sour spot for me. For efficient transportation, my car beats my bike. For recreation, I'd rather be going faster for the thrill or walking/hiking, to appreciate the sights and serenity (and it's better for conversation, when you've company). Ebikes (at least the one I rode) are more fun and more efficient and practical. So yeah, I'm confused by the stigma people leap to apply to anything new. It reminds me of the "video games can't be art" thing. And how a century prior it was, "movies can't be art". Or, more fittingly, "automobiles are a menace" or "motorcycles? More like murdercycles!" (which was an actual fearmongering term used in the press for motorcycles). People unable to see the pattern of, "New thing is scary!" that soon is revealed to be basically fine (though, granted, automobiles are a menace, but they also do more good than ill) with so much of recorded history to draw from astound me. Anyway, thanks, the video was quite informative - and has had me open up multiple new tabs as I don't know a ton about bikes. But I'm glad for the education and the prod toward more. I would say I'd appreciate some more... ignorant-slob-focused videos from you, but I'm sure I'm not the target audience, so I get it. I'll just have to read letterwords instead.
I am constructed as you are, but I have had good performance from tubeless setups-both modern tubeless-ready rim/tire combinations, as well as old school DIY combinations of not-tubeless-ready pieces. I agree that tubeless trailside repairs would be messy-maybe even ridiculous-as even getting the tire to pump up can be nuts. I carry tubes just in case, but have never had to use them. You might want to trouble-shoot your system to see where the weak points are. Tires too narrow, too little pressure (some guys really under-do it there), using old sealant, damaged rims, etc, etc. I have often seen big guys riding new XC hardtails with skinny tires down rocky downhill trails and I have wondered how long it was until they overwhelmed their tubeless set-up. Good luck.
I like how you had to stop the guy from talking about himself so much so he could get to the point at the beginning. If you hadn't he probably could've spent the length of the video telling you his life story.
The basic answer is: it depends on your preference. They each have their pros and cons. A mid-drive does tend to even out the balance, plus you get to keep your existing tires and equipment, so they're great for adding onto an existing bike, but they do push the chain itself which can cause problems of its own like the chain slipping if you change gears while it's running, breaking the chain if anything at all happens to cause the gear cassette to be misaligned or damaged, etc. The hub motors require you to replace the entire wheel with a new one that has the motor in it, you cannot just add a motor to an existing wheel because of the way wheels are designed (obviously, that only applies to a DIY bike). They take all the pressure off the chain and the bike frame itself, as the motor is self-contained (except the wires obviously) inside the wheel, so no need to worry about snapped or slipped chains, or any of the other potential problems of a mid-drive. However, it makes the wheel heavier (usually pre-made ebikes will have the battery placed so it offsets this and rebalances the bike, and sometimes the front suspension is heavier anyway), and it's more difficult to do any work at all on it, such as when you get a flat and need to remove the wheel to change the tire. It's also a much more expensive fix if you get in an accident and bend the wheel even slightly, as you have to replace the entire wheel including the motor. When it comes to riding performance itself ... it's pretty much a draw. It "feels more natural" for the push to come from the rear wheel, but that's only because most bike riders are used to when they pedal, the chain transfers the "power" to the rear wheel to push you forward.
check the site . he reviews e-bikes in all price ranges ,high to low . good way to save a ton on ebikes can be craigslist . Set up email notification when someone is getting rid of their on craigslist in your set price range in your area . Or you can look up how to just build your own . electricbikereview.com/?s=&_range_min_price=320&_range_max_price=1080&_range_min_total-weight=0&_range_max_total-weight=175&_range_min_top-speed=0&_range_max_top-speed=50&_range_min_battery-watt-hours=0&_range_max_battery-watt-hours=3000&_range_min_frame-sizes=0&_range_max_frame-sizes=22&_range_min_motor-torque=0&_range_max_motor-torque=160&_range_min_gearing-details=0&_range_max_gearing-details=30&_multi_model_year=&_multi_body_position=&_multi_suggested_use=&_multi_frame_types=&_multi_drive_mode=&_multi_availability=
Thanks, I've watched quite a few of the reviews on this channel most of those videos were the high end sporty e-bikes. It's good to know that they have done reviews of more work-a-day e-bikes for those of us, is it just me, that are interested in a good value without motorcycle performance e-bike.
I feel your pain, its hard to afford an ebike working at mickey d’s. A degree in a appropriate discipline is the answer. Just as mastering a bike discipline requires hard work, so does getting an appropriate education. Common sense.
I don't think bicycles should be limited in power output. On cars and trucks to semis, power differs according to weight and needs. The speed limit is what regulates them. Croch rockets are able to do well over 150 mph, yet are allowed to ride on the roads. Again the speed limits being enforced limits them. A cargo bike needs more power than say a kids bmx. One or two idiots can wreck it for the majority though. Punish them, not the law abiding ones
For commuting and very light trail riding, e-bikes are sure to add some people to the group. For anything beyond fire roads or smooth singletrack, it is not going to bring anyone new. The e-bike is soooooo heavy it handles like S%$#. Also, even a great system like the Bosch will require some new handling skill for anything approaching a serious trail.
Larry Burke I had similar thoughts to you, till I rode a Specialized levo, now I own one! On the most technical trails in my area this absolutely whamped my giant anthem and rocky mountain bikes, it ascends amazingly and while it’s heavier it is still incredibly nimble on the trails. Downhill with 140/130 mils of travel and plus size tires it cruises over the bumps and you can land jumps easily. it’s a very well balanced bike. Mountain ebikes have really matured in the last couple of years, the only problem now is the price!
Seems like a lot of good info but I wonder if he might not be bias being a ebike seller. I think it would be interesting to ask the same questions of a person that only sold regular bikes.
Well I dont care if this guy is certified or not . Hidro brakes are vary important on all two wheel bike and trikes . Much more than a car . I would change brake fluid every year . One thing you dont want to happen to you or your bike for the brakes front or rear to lock up on you @ 20 or even 30 MPH . That wont be good at all .
Can't justify it when a used motorcycle is less than $1000, insurance is $75 a year and they get 55-75 miles per gallon. 250s get about 75mpg and I have a 500 that gets about 55. It was less than 1000 with 1950 miles on it never been dumped.
Yeah.. they're different tools. You get what you want. Motorcycles are throttle, e-mtb's are not. You're turning cranks. If you want gas economical vehicle look at motorcycle. If you want bike that you can ride 30 miles of singletrack for fun it's e-mtb. Want to work REALLY hard for the 10 mile singletrack then that is a regular mtb.
All the snobs can shove it and there really shouldent be so many questions about these bikes. Based on how it is used you can use common sense really if you have it set up to go as fast as a motor cycle or street legal and you ride it like that places it’s just obviously dangerous to do so I mean well yeah you messed up and that’s warrant for a vehicle violation but if it’s not used in a way like going 40on bike paths and clipping people etc blowing through intersections just like any bike really. The truth is besides the cost of a bike like this but you can get regular bikes made to go 50 or so mph and it doesn’t even take a bike like that really it depends on the rider gearing all that but at that point there’s no difference having a motor or not as far as it being too fast or whatever. There are things to be careful of because you do not want to have the motor go off when you don’t want it to so be careful with moving the crank or hitting the throttle etc that’s all user responsibility not the bikes fault. Anyone walking running riding heck if you sit in a stupid place can be reckless and that’s the ticket or charge it should be for if needed not calling it a motor cycle and claiming no insurance or registration or plates ITS A MONEY SCAM they use the justice system to scam you out of time and money and to take things away even sometimes that’s the real problem.
You can get a "decent" ebike for around $1000 - $2000. You can build your own with kits that replace one of the tires on an existing bike for about half that. Neither of these options are "high end", but it's important to be aware that there's a huge price range, not just "they cost as much as a car". If all ebikes cost as much as a car, people would just buy the cars. (edit: I have found some brand new ebikes for as low as $650 on Amazon)
the only bad thing about an E bike is the weight & price. and you got a problem if the motor is dead you got to get it replaced, or send it for service.
Yeah, things have become much more reliable in recent years. I like Bosch and Yamaha for this reason, their drive systems are guaranteed for two years and they just replace the whole thing if there's an issue... My Uncle has been riding with a Bosch powered Haibike for almost four years now and it's holding up great :)
It would be better if you would let the expert do the talking and not interrupt all the time. Looked to me like he had to rush to get his thoughts out before being interrupted....just a thought for improvement.
Remember folks it's just stupid to not have a throttle available on an ebike. Ever had to stop on a steep incline? ya, pedal assit is great but it takes at least one rotation to kick in typically (sometimes more). And mountain bikers, ever had a really tricky uphill where it was really hard to keep your balance? A throttle is indispensable in these and other situations... I see a lot of really big name high end bikes being sold without a throttle to people new to ebikes and they almost always want a throttle installed later. This isn't so easy on many models, especially if you aren't good with wiring.
Paid mine $3,000.00 for Specialize ebike. Already got 40 miles/60.000 klm on it. Planning to visit my sister 20 miles from me on a nice day Saturday sometime.
The channel is pretty interesting, the reviews are very good and useful. But you should improve the sound of your videos. Sometimes one must make an effort to understand the speech.
So Court, what's your story my friend? Are you doing this because you really want to help folks who are interested in the new e-bikes or are you doing this strictly for notoriety because, I called you in November to ask you some questions on e-bikes and you told me I caught you at a bad time and you would call me back. You NEVER called back! I called you again yesterday, 2/19/2017 to ask questions again and you kept claiming I was breaking up and you hung up on me? I called you back twice, immediately went to voicemail, which I found interesting, leaving a message asking you to call me back and once again... NO CALL BACK! So, are you for real or what's your story???
I'm telling you boy if I spend thousands of dollars for a bike and it breaks on me nothing better been fall off break chip none of that in fact I better never fall off my bike because at that point I want my money back put your back together piece by piece that is the only way to win that way you don't have any compromises you get exactly what you want
I always find most of the E mountain bike reviews on Electric Bike Review to be not very informative. Sure he gives you a rundown on specs and price, but he doesn't seem to know a whole lot about how suspension works and his riding skills are at a beginner level. If he had a more skilled mountain biker review the mountain bikes, I would take his reviews more seriously. I remember him griping about not being able to lock the battery in the Turbo Levo. Why would that ever be an issue on a mountain bike I am never going to ride on the street or lock up in front of a store?
yes i do agree they are mentally ill with psychotic tendencies and enforce their beliefs and will harm you if you don't believe in them but that dose not mean or prove in any way their opinion AKA law applies to any one
marcstevens.net/podpress_trac/web/13132/0/NSP_2017-02-18.mp3 PLEASE CHECK THIS OUT AND I DO CHALLENGE THEM yes i do agree they are mentally ill with psychotic tendencies and enforce their beliefs and will harm you if you don't believe in them but that dose not mean or prove in any way their opinion AKA law applies to any one
I don't think bicycles should be limited in power output. On cars and trucks to semis, power differs according to weight and needs. The speed limit is what regulates them. Croch rockets are able to do well over 150 mph, yet are allowed to ride on the roads. Again the speed limits being enforced limits them. A cargo bike needs more power than say a kids bmx. One or two idiots can wreck it for the majority though. Punish them, not the law abiding ones
Dale Wildey if only laws can restrict car and truck speed in the factory. Now I think about it, why we have cars that can hit >100 km/h while bylaw, most only allowed 80 km/h
And if bicycles had their own carrageway your comment MIGHT make some sense. Bicycles often share space with people and animals. People (maybe like you) would end up hurting someone, THEN the laws would really start coming in, you'd need insurance, license tags etc. etc.
Wow!! This guy really speaks from his heart. Can feel his passion for bikes. Thanks for interviewing him!! His great!! 🙏🏾👍🏾😊
ebike got me back on the road after being off the road for 20 years due to a injury, i cant tell you how much this has improved my welbeing, ebikes have opened the door for alot of disabled people, it can only be a good thing.
I get out way more on my eBike than my push bike. Worth every $.
Thank you for taking time out to make these short films they’re really helpful. I’d love to buy an ebike.
I suffered cardiac failure last year and don’t want to repeat it.....look after your hearts everybody.
Using an exercise bike has got me back to a level where I can hit the roads and trails again.
I loved the final comments here about bringing more people back to cycling. Here's a short story about me: I'm 48 now and 240 pounds, but i used to be a very keen cyclist, 20 years ago I cycled around 16 miles a day. Then I moved to Scotland, and, believe it or not, there's a lot of hills here :) I've had a bike the whole time but motivating myself to get out and even commute on it when there's a couple of hundred feet in elevation in a 3 mile commute was challenging ! So about a year ago I started to look seriously at e-bikes and found this channel. After watching dozens of reviews I settled on Felt Verza E, which I bought around 5 weeks ago. I was concerned that the 250 watt limit here wouldn't be enough (I hadn't rode the bike or any electric bike before buying it) but It is fantastic ! The Bosch centre drive is amazing, the bike itself is beautifully made and I now use it every day to commute, to explore, to shop, everything. Climbing 12% gradient hills is done without trouble thanks to the ability to leverage the gears and the 15.5 mph limit is no real limit to me because the only time I go faster than that is downhills :) I'm a total convert and can't recommend them highly enough. I'm not sure how something with a gearless hub motor would fare with a heavier rider as I haven't tried one but anything with a Bosch centre drive, it will transform your life :)
I am 55, also an ex active cyclist. I had a hip replaced this year followed by spinal fusion of L4-5.
I installed a Bafang BBS02 on a mountain bike and havent had so much fun in years! The speeds I can attain, though higher than I could achieve manually are still within reason. Its here to stay, let the haters hate. I read the wheel wasnt very well received in its day either ;-)
Hard to beat the stealth like silence of the Bafang unit in operation. Not even as loud as my tires. Great unit as I am sure the Specialized is.
Yesterday's ride was 18.3 miles, mostly off road. Loose sand and East Texas dirt. Averaged 14mph. FUN
Hey there, if you get this, let me know, I have a few questions for you. Similar situation here but am in japan and no one I know has one.
Live across the water in N. Ireland in the Antrim hills. Totally agree and love my mountain
He is right about it bringing in new folks to riding. My husband loves to ride but I could never keep up and now I get to go with him and enjoy it as well with my new electric bike.
Thank you, Court! I've really enjoyed the several videos you've done with Erik, from Peloton Cycles. These videos tell me what qualities I'd like to see in the salesperson I do business with at a bike shop. I've always felt that before one shops for their desired product, one should shop for the store, and salesperson they wish to do business with. I really appreciate your videos and website!
Nice interview. Bought a Radrover two weeks ago. My other non electric bike has been sitting in the shed for the last few years. Wow, what a difference. I have to say that it has not been all good news. I had 2 flats during this time. A lot of star thistle around my area. I used the electric assist to get me out of the canyon when my back tire went flat. Thanks to mobile phones, my ride was waiting at the top of the hill. E Bikes are here to stay. Used the green goop to fill the leaks. Headed out to the brewery tonight. An easy 3.5 mile ride over hills and yonder. Cruised at 16 mph on the way back.
My bike came with a 46t chain ring. I replaced that with a 44t (hills). I should have taken a link out of the chain because on the small rear cogs i get some slipping. Perhaps the "b" screw could fix this. I'm learning more about bicycles because of my electric build.
I'm 56 and recently retired do to major neck and back problems. I started riding my regular mountain bike and I was so sore afterwards it took me a week to get back on it. So I bought a cheap ebike added rock shox air forks and hydraulic disc brakes and I'm in woods 3 to 4 times a week riding my ebike. I look for my work outs on the steep hills and I'm getting in great shape. So people should keep there comment to there selves because people like me are grateful for something they can do to stay in shape when they can't do anything else!
I used to mountain bike a lot years ago. Rode hard and crashed a lot. Would love to get into an Ebike. Looks like a blast! So much to learn about it. Thanks for the video, great info.
Thanks, this is very useful information. One quibble: constantly referring to biking as a "sport". Biking is biking. It means many different things to different people, transportation being just one example of a non-sport use.
Definitely agree. For me, the e-bike is for transpo, fun, and fitness (throttle to work, pedal home). Most people on bikes in my area are using them as car replacements.
Great, A wealth of knowledge here! I cannot imagine where ebikes will be in 5 years. Where do we start with automation and technology upgrades, weight classes, etc.
Well done interview - - 'Knows his business - - 'NO BS' - - Wonder if there is someone this 'Knowledgable in my neighborhood!!
Ebikes are the best thing since sliced bread. I hadn't rode a bike in 20 years now I'm all into it. I also feel my muscles tightening up all over cause I like to use pedal assist and am now getting some exercise. My town looks a lot different from a bike as opposed to a car. I have a bike trail next to my apt that goes for 10's of miles in different directions. There a really long trail next to a river with a paved trail and off road trails all over the place. My ebike folds up and now I can take it camping and fishing. And best of all, I get closer to cute women walking their dogs, riding or jogging. My brand new ebike got stolen...from me not knowing how to lock it up downtown. But, I got it back by doing some leg work with my investigative skills. Battery was missing but not another scratch on it. Now I just have to find more time to ride.
Great video, very informative conservative style interview, not a one sided lecture. Great, Great videoI bought my 48 volt e mountain bike, I, am an elderly crippled 60 yr. old, 3 back surgeries, elbow, stomach , I always loved bicycling, this is the most fun you can have with your clothes on, great exercise, great outdoor fun, fresh air, trail riding, roads too, unbelievable off road fun, I bang thru the gears accelerating, which is so smooth, its unbelievable, its goes so fast, my old eye sights getting a work out too, peddle assisted system is incredible, I got to go Ride my new ebike
Informative and thought provoking. Thanks and thank you Erik. Peleton can be proud of him. A great ambassador for our hobby
Very informative, and all very true - as it would be coming from someone with as much knowledge and experience as Erik.
I don't have any problems trail riding on an ebike in Australia - my local Giant dealer that is hugely into mountain biking and sponsoring teams has started selling the Dirt-E+2 and the Quick-E+. In my mid sized city of Brisbane there are 2 dedicated e-bike stores, and heaps of traditional bike stores are stocking e-bikes from Specialized, Focus, Merida, Scott, Giant etc... It looks like it's starting to take off!
Great work on the vid - thanks mate!
I'm also in Brisbane Rob and a good friend of mine and myself are currently looking at grabbing a Specialized Turbo Levo. From what I've read and seen they're an incredibly awesome bike, just a shame about the price! Which ebike do you own?
Hi! I commute and do long rides on road and trails. I have a Focus Aventura. Bought mainly for the extra large battery and go anywhere capabilities - not mountain biking, though I do accidentally stray onto tracks where a MTB would be better suited.
Going down a few tracks around Mt. Cootha certainly showed up my limited MTB experience!
Don't worry about the sticker price of e-bikes in Brisbane shops, I got $500 off the price of my bike just by asking them. Electric Bikes Centre at Teneriffe are having a big sale right now - you could certainly be able to get a sizeable discount if you walked in ready to buy! www.electricbikecentre.com.au/
Rob Pennefather Yes I think it's great to see ebikes starting to take off and become popular! Yes they aren't cheap but it opens up a huge opportunity for so many people who wouldn't normally be able to ride long distances or for long periods to actually get out there and enjoy cycling. I'm not the fittest person out there but still want to enjoy riding MTB trails just as much as the pros. I'm sure I could with an ebike like the Turbo Levo. It's basically exactly the same bike as I have now, just with a motor really.
Hey Rob! I'm in Melbourne and have been looking at ebikes. Would you happen to have any good recommendations? Don't really want it to look super ebike style so it gets stolen but wouldn't mind it having some good juice/power too. There seems to be so much disparity in the market and its hard to find and buy :(
Brilliant! Very knowledgeable and thoughtful guy.
Hi.
I have eBike model MATE X-750W.
Battery 48V/14 Ah fail.
On the side battery voltage 42V-when turn battery key to ignition position-drop to 0V.
What can i do?
Chris
ebike help me with my knee injury. now I'm able to ride my mtb and roadbike bike.
Sure wish the Peleton Store would have let me know Eric was employed at their shop. I went in a couple of times to find out more about their e bikes in FoCo and no one really wanted to help or do anything, really, to make a sale. Get it together Peleton, you might actually sell one of those Levos
great info - thanks for the positive take on these bikes!
How did you decide on the expert Model of the Turbo Levo? I am interested in buying one myself. seems like a pound or two of weight is less important on an electric bike since it's electric
That bike is a thing of beauty.
Ebike Tip: If you have a crazy high powered motor, your not using even a fraction of its capabilities. Limited by both the battery and controller module. It can only pull so much amperage.
I had an older bike with disc brakes and I sometimes wonder if it was one of the first to have discs ? Considering I can't remember its name I guess I will never know but anyhow ! As easy as it is to bleed brakes why would someone pay to have them bled? Sissy men that explains it all !
E-bikes are sick to cruise around on.
HI-5 🤚Court! THE cycling community loves you.🚴♀️♥️
Really informative video and that mountain bike is gorgeous ;-)
4:34 I burp my brakes more often than that several times in a year, pressure changes & brake pad wear means i have to burp the brakes. but I assume he means a full bleed, but this is a common mistake to just call everything for bleed. just to make it clear you might need to burp it several times & refill fluid, but full bleed thatch's 1 time in 1, 2 or 3 or more, it depends.
he mentioned many good points, with mechanical you have to use Locktite 243 to secure the piston/pad adjustment, and of course wires have to be tightened, but with hydraulic brakes you have to refill them to get get same performance with pads that are not new, I use 4 zipties to get perfect burp or bleed. but Hayes makes a tool that does the same job, I want that tool.
Hello if you want speed what you have to do to LCD to change it
Wow! much good info. Be a good ambassador folks! It benefits all.
Would this e bike be good for on road as well?
Been watching all of your videos and have got a lot of good info. I kind of know what I'm looking for but I wanted to ask: Should I buy a used ebike like off of craigslist or is there better places for this? Or do I even want to buy a used ebike? I'm here in the Denver area. Any advice would be appreciated.
Very good discussion. I enjoyed this video.
That Turbo Levo is fire!!
Great information. Glad I listened.
The electric bicycle companies are going to eliminate the chain in short order! The new gear in town is ceramic and the 1st ebikes with this fantastic new gear is on the road already! To eliminate the chain is a great leap forward! Get with the program, guys!
i destroyed my ebyke with it falling over, good advice... wish there were more heavy duty bike stands. Thinking of using a trailgator as a bike stand
How can I buy a decent mtb e-bike when I don’t have £6000 ? What can I buy for £3000?
what about gear change how fast can you do it on bikes.
Great review--thanks
Great stuffs! Love this video!
I'm only 5 feet tall and living in the UK has anyone any info on what fat wheel bike would suit
Many 24" wheeled bikes, google it.
Shmoogle it hahahaha 🍄
It's an open subject that brings a means to an end people need food an they need away to go get that for me in the last three years the distance I must travel has gone from 150 yards to three miles I find my self looking at a E- Bike the same way a farmer looks at his pickup truck while for some people it's fun for others like my self it's a tool who said work can't be fun
I don't know about the 'sport', but ebikes are the only thing making me want to buy a bike, which I never have, as I've had the same hand-me-down [not-e]bike for over a decade. I don't use it much because it's less fun than the increased speed of when I rode and ebike, and it kinda kinds to hit the... sour spot for me. For efficient transportation, my car beats my bike. For recreation, I'd rather be going faster for the thrill or walking/hiking, to appreciate the sights and serenity (and it's better for conversation, when you've company). Ebikes (at least the one I rode) are more fun and more efficient and practical.
So yeah, I'm confused by the stigma people leap to apply to anything new. It reminds me of the "video games can't be art" thing. And how a century prior it was, "movies can't be art". Or, more fittingly, "automobiles are a menace" or "motorcycles? More like murdercycles!" (which was an actual fearmongering term used in the press for motorcycles). People unable to see the pattern of, "New thing is scary!" that soon is revealed to be basically fine (though, granted, automobiles are a menace, but they also do more good than ill) with so much of recorded history to draw from astound me.
Anyway, thanks, the video was quite informative - and has had me open up multiple new tabs as I don't know a ton about bikes. But I'm glad for the education and the prod toward more. I would say I'd appreciate some more... ignorant-slob-focused videos from you, but I'm sure I'm not the target audience, so I get it. I'll just have to read letterwords instead.
Nice informative interview.
Being a Clydesdale, I disagree in regards to tubeless. They suck. Trailside repairs arent as easy either.
I am constructed as you are, but I have had good performance from tubeless setups-both modern tubeless-ready rim/tire combinations, as well as old school DIY combinations of not-tubeless-ready pieces.
I agree that tubeless trailside repairs would be messy-maybe even ridiculous-as even getting the tire to pump up can be nuts. I carry tubes just in case, but have never had to use them.
You might want to trouble-shoot your system to see where the weak points are. Tires too narrow, too little pressure (some guys really under-do it there), using old sealant, damaged rims, etc, etc. I have often seen big guys riding new XC hardtails with skinny tires down rocky downhill trails and I have wondered how long it was until they overwhelmed their tubeless set-up. Good luck.
I like how you had to stop the guy from talking about himself so much so he could get to the point at the beginning. If you hadn't he probably could've spent the length of the video telling you his life story.
Are mid-drive gears ⚙️ better than a hub drive motor ?? 😨
The basic answer is: it depends on your preference. They each have their pros and cons. A mid-drive does tend to even out the balance, plus you get to keep your existing tires and equipment, so they're great for adding onto an existing bike, but they do push the chain itself which can cause problems of its own like the chain slipping if you change gears while it's running, breaking the chain if anything at all happens to cause the gear cassette to be misaligned or damaged, etc. The hub motors require you to replace the entire wheel with a new one that has the motor in it, you cannot just add a motor to an existing wheel because of the way wheels are designed (obviously, that only applies to a DIY bike). They take all the pressure off the chain and the bike frame itself, as the motor is self-contained (except the wires obviously) inside the wheel, so no need to worry about snapped or slipped chains, or any of the other potential problems of a mid-drive. However, it makes the wheel heavier (usually pre-made ebikes will have the battery placed so it offsets this and rebalances the bike, and sometimes the front suspension is heavier anyway), and it's more difficult to do any work at all on it, such as when you get a flat and need to remove the wheel to change the tire. It's also a much more expensive fix if you get in an accident and bend the wheel even slightly, as you have to replace the entire wheel including the motor. When it comes to riding performance itself ... it's pretty much a draw. It "feels more natural" for the push to come from the rear wheel, but that's only because most bike riders are used to when they pedal, the chain transfers the "power" to the rear wheel to push you forward.
kudos to erik...
Electric Bike Review where are the bikes that non $1000s people can see reviews? Is this TH-cam channel only interested in High end e-bikes?
check the site . he reviews e-bikes in all price ranges ,high to low . good way to save a ton on ebikes can be craigslist . Set up email notification when someone is getting rid of their on craigslist in your set price range in your area . Or you can look up how to just build your own .
electricbikereview.com/?s=&_range_min_price=320&_range_max_price=1080&_range_min_total-weight=0&_range_max_total-weight=175&_range_min_top-speed=0&_range_max_top-speed=50&_range_min_battery-watt-hours=0&_range_max_battery-watt-hours=3000&_range_min_frame-sizes=0&_range_max_frame-sizes=22&_range_min_motor-torque=0&_range_max_motor-torque=160&_range_min_gearing-details=0&_range_max_gearing-details=30&_multi_model_year=&_multi_body_position=&_multi_suggested_use=&_multi_frame_types=&_multi_drive_mode=&_multi_availability=
Thanks, I've watched quite a few of the reviews on this channel most of those videos were the high end sporty e-bikes. It's good to know that they have done reviews of more work-a-day e-bikes for those of us, is it just me, that are interested in a good value without motorcycle performance e-bike.
Build your own for $500
I feel your pain, its hard to afford an ebike working at mickey d’s. A degree in a appropriate discipline is the answer. Just as mastering a bike discipline requires hard work, so does getting an appropriate education. Common sense.
I don't think bicycles should be limited in power output. On cars and trucks to semis, power differs according to weight and needs. The speed limit is what regulates them. Croch rockets are able to do well over 150 mph, yet are allowed to ride on the roads. Again the speed limits being enforced limits them. A cargo bike needs more power than say a kids bmx. One or two idiots can wreck it for the majority though. Punish them, not the law abiding ones
Holy shit. I was prepared to watch this video and laugh at the tips & myths. Then I found myself actually learning some stuff.
👍🏽
great info...
For commuting and very light trail riding, e-bikes are sure to add some people to the group.
For anything beyond fire roads or smooth singletrack, it is not going to bring anyone new. The e-bike is soooooo heavy it handles like S%$#. Also, even a great system like the Bosch will require some new handling skill for anything approaching a serious trail.
Larry Burke I had similar thoughts to you, till I rode a Specialized levo, now I own one! On the most technical trails in my area this absolutely whamped my giant anthem and rocky mountain bikes, it ascends amazingly and while it’s heavier it is still incredibly nimble on the trails. Downhill with 140/130 mils of travel and plus size tires it cruises over the bumps and you can land jumps easily. it’s a very well balanced bike. Mountain ebikes have really matured in the last couple of years, the only problem now is the price!
how much for this bike $$$ ????
Electric bikes have been around for 120 years so acceptance of and backwards "laws" about them better catch up.
thank for this
Correct.......correct.........correct....and counting
Seems like a lot of good info but I wonder if he might not be bias being a ebike seller. I think it would be interesting to ask the same questions of a person that only sold regular bikes.
Correct.
Well I dont care if this guy is certified or not . Hidro brakes are vary important on all two wheel bike and trikes . Much more than a car . I would change brake fluid every year . One thing you dont want to happen to you or your bike for the brakes front or rear to lock up on you @ 20 or even 30 MPH . That wont be good at all .
Fix the audio by turning off the fan in the back, and giving him a mic. Great videos, though!
You shouldn’t interrupt the mechanic while he is speaking.
I sure wish Americans would stop begging for more laws. Be a grown up and manage your life situations.
He is often hard to hear. You really ought to mic up the interviewee.
Pretty sure the internet existed 20 years ago
D B I know. Green guy thinks he’s an OG. I had internet in 1994.
Can't justify it when a used motorcycle is less than $1000, insurance is $75 a year and they get 55-75 miles per gallon. 250s get about 75mpg and I have a 500 that gets about 55. It was less than 1000 with 1950 miles on it never been dumped.
Yeah.. they're different tools. You get what you want. Motorcycles are throttle, e-mtb's are not. You're turning cranks. If you want gas economical vehicle look at motorcycle. If you want bike that you can ride 30 miles of singletrack for fun it's e-mtb. Want to work REALLY hard for the 10 mile singletrack then that is a regular mtb.
Unfortunately, where I live does not allow bikes like that. Could have ridden a Grom to visit my sis 20 miles away.
15:05 No. 1
All the snobs can shove it and there really shouldent be so many questions about these bikes. Based on how it is used you can use common sense really if you have it set up to go as fast as a motor cycle or street legal and you ride it like that places it’s just obviously dangerous to do so I mean well yeah you messed up and that’s warrant for a vehicle violation but if it’s not used in a way like going 40on bike paths and clipping people etc blowing through intersections just like any bike really. The truth is besides the cost of a bike like this but you can get regular bikes made to go 50 or so mph and it doesn’t even take a bike like that really it depends on the rider gearing all that but at that point there’s no difference having a motor or not as far as it being too fast or whatever. There are things to be careful of because you do not want to have the motor go off when you don’t want it to so be careful with moving the crank or hitting the throttle etc that’s all user responsibility not the bikes fault. Anyone walking running riding heck if you sit in a stupid place can be reckless and that’s the ticket or charge it should be for if needed not calling it a motor cycle and claiming no insurance or registration or plates ITS A MONEY SCAM they use the justice system to scam you out of time and money and to take things away even sometimes that’s the real problem.
Please, activate CC (subtitles)
Agustin Mario Ascanio They still have not activated yet.
how much cost.
B ANSARI high end around 10 g
You can get a "decent" ebike for around $1000 - $2000. You can build your own with kits that replace one of the tires on an existing bike for about half that. Neither of these options are "high end", but it's important to be aware that there's a huge price range, not just "they cost as much as a car". If all ebikes cost as much as a car, people would just buy the cars. (edit: I have found some brand new ebikes for as low as $650 on Amazon)
Wait…… there was internet in 1998. At least I thought there was.
the only bad thing about an E bike is the weight & price. and you got a problem if the motor is dead you got to get it replaced, or send it for service.
Yeah, things have become much more reliable in recent years. I like Bosch and Yamaha for this reason, their drive systems are guaranteed for two years and they just replace the whole thing if there's an issue... My Uncle has been riding with a Bosch powered Haibike for almost four years now and it's holding up great :)
I’ve had eight heart attacks and I could not ride anymore with an E bike I can ride again without killing myself
It would be better if you would let the expert do the talking and not interrupt all the time. Looked to me like he had to rush to get his thoughts out before being interrupted....just a thought for improvement.
no internet 20 years ago??? was i alone with internet?
Remember folks it's just stupid to not have a throttle available on an ebike. Ever had to stop on a steep incline? ya, pedal assit is great but it takes at least one rotation to kick in typically (sometimes more). And mountain bikers, ever had a really tricky uphill where it was really hard to keep your balance?
A throttle is indispensable in these and other situations...
I see a lot of really big name high end bikes being sold without a throttle to people new to ebikes and they almost always want a throttle installed later. This isn't so easy on many models, especially if you aren't good with wiring.
They forgot to mention that that bike is effing expensive!
which model is it? i am not able to figure out from the video ?
Paid mine $3,000.00 for Specialize ebike. Already got 40 miles/60.000 klm on it. Planning to visit my sister 20 miles from me on a nice day Saturday sometime.
The channel is pretty interesting, the reviews are very good and useful. But you should improve the sound of your videos. Sometimes one must make an effort to understand the speech.
The worst cyclists are going to ruin it for the rest of us!!! I wish everyone had to read that sentence on a card to turn on their bike!!!
Can't hear it over the howling fan. Ridiculous.
So Court, what's your story my friend? Are you doing this because you really want to help folks who are interested in the new e-bikes or are you doing this strictly for notoriety because, I called you in November to ask you some questions on e-bikes and you told me I caught you at a bad time and you would call me back. You NEVER called back!
I called you again yesterday, 2/19/2017 to ask questions again and you kept claiming I was breaking up and you hung up on me? I called you back twice, immediately went to voicemail, which I found interesting, leaving a message asking you to call me back and once again... NO CALL BACK! So, are you for real or what's your story???
He needs to get his fucking eyes aligned !
Fellatio Belsen How?
Another rip shop and bike ! BS ! certified!
I'm telling you boy if I spend thousands of dollars for a bike and it breaks on me nothing better been fall off break chip none of that in fact I better never fall off my bike because at that point I want my money back put your back together piece by piece that is the only way to win that way you don't have any compromises you get exactly what you want
eBikes are way too expensive go figure 1st gen always cost a fortune
I always find most of the E mountain bike reviews on Electric Bike Review to be not very informative. Sure he gives you a rundown on specs and price, but he doesn't seem to know a whole lot about how suspension works and his riding skills are at a beginner level. If he had a more skilled mountain biker review the mountain bikes, I would take his reviews more seriously.
I remember him griping about not being able to lock the battery in the Turbo Levo. Why would that ever be an issue on a mountain bike I am never going to ride on the street or lock up in front of a store?
LAWS ARE JUST OPINION AND FACTUALLY DO NOT APPLY TO NO ONE QUIT ASKING FOR PERMISSION YOU ALREADY HAVE A RIGHT TO DO
Donnie M. Tell that to a judge. "Your laws are just opinions!" Bang goes the gavel, "guilty!"
marcstevens.net/podpress_trac/web/13132/0/NSP_2017-02-18.mp3 PLEASE CHECK THIS OUT AND I DO CHALLENGE THEM
yes i do agree they are mentally ill with psychotic tendencies and enforce their beliefs and will harm you if you don't believe in them but that dose not mean or prove in any way their opinion AKA law applies to any one
marcstevens.net/podpress_trac/web/13132/0/NSP_2017-02-18.mp3 PLEASE CHECK THIS OUT AND I DO CHALLENGE THEM yes i do agree they are mentally ill with psychotic tendencies and
enforce their beliefs and will harm you if you don't believe in them
but that dose not mean or prove in any way their opinion AKA law
applies to any one
How horrible does your upbringing have to be to be twisted and entitled enough to confidently say "the law doesn't apply to me"?
doesn't talk about e bikes at all
To busy for a bike.
Gay!
I don't think bicycles should be limited in power output. On cars and trucks to semis, power differs according to weight and needs. The speed limit is what regulates them. Croch rockets are able to do well over 150 mph, yet are allowed to ride on the roads. Again the speed limits being enforced limits them. A cargo bike needs more power than say a kids bmx. One or two idiots can wreck it for the majority though. Punish them, not the law abiding ones
Dale Wildey if only laws can restrict car and truck speed in the factory. Now I think about it, why we have cars that can hit >100 km/h while bylaw, most only allowed 80 km/h
And if bicycles had their own carrageway your comment MIGHT make some sense. Bicycles often share space with people and animals. People (maybe like you) would end up hurting someone, THEN the laws would really start coming in, you'd need insurance, license tags etc. etc.
If your a democrat YOU are the problem. The government is not your friend!