E-bikes: Seeking advice on a commuter bike that meets disability needs
I've done considerable e-bike research, and I'm still struggling with unanswered questions... I'm looking for a mid-range e-bike mainly for commuting, approximately 3 miles/5 km each way. Part of...
I've done considerable e-bike research, and I'm still struggling with unanswered questions...
I'm looking for a mid-range e-bike mainly for commuting, approximately 3 miles/5 km each way. Part of the route is on unpaved but graded park trails, otherwise paved (sometimes very bumpy) streets and sidewalks. I don't anticipate using the bike for heavy cargo, rough trails or long powered rides, but wouldn't mind working up to 30 mi/50 km trips with partial assists.
The primary goal is a safe, stable ride that gets me to work reliably without leaving me too banged up.
Requirements:
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Major assistance with steep hills. Though I've rebuilt decent endurance and muscle strength, I've got two artificial hips, and occasional inflammation in knees, ankles, and feet that makes powering up a long incline painful.
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Suspension fork and relatively upright riding position. Even with gel gloves, bumps and bangs through a rigid frame and forward leaning will wreck my wrists and hands quickly.
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Step-through frame. Thanks to hip replacements, my balance and range of motion aren't all they could be.
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Local service availability. Fortunately, I'm in a town with great (if expensive) bike shops.
Nice to have:
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60 lbs. or less. I don't expect to wrestle the bike up/down stairs or into vehicles frequently. It's more a question of being able to propel it under my own power most of the time and carry it on a standard car rack. I've looked at e-trikes for stability, but they're too heavy and cumbersome.
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Hydraulic disc brakes, belt drive and sealed motor hub (expensive but cleaner for commuting and lower maintenance), torque sensor.
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Integrated lights.
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Fenders, chain guard, rear rack, kickstand, phone holder included or available at reasonable cost.
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Visual appeal - colors, not too obvious battery, etc.
Overnight recharge is fine, the battery doesn't have to be removable.
Possibilities so far:
Priority Current (via Costco). review,
review
Cons:
- Rigid frame
- Complaints about required pedalling and power distribution on hills
Pro: - Meets most of the requirements
- Model has been out for a few years with an established track record
- Well-reviewed
RadPower Radster Road Regular review, review
Pros:
- Checks all requirements
- Safety emphasis
Cons: - Heavy (78 lbs.)
Electric Bike Company Model E or R
review, review
Pro:
- Extensive customization available
Con: - Cruiser style less likely to be comfortable for long rides
- Model R is 78 lbs.
Ride1Up 700 Series ST review, review
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Meets most requirements
Cons: - Assembly difficulties reported, no local dealer
Aventon Level.2 Step-through review, review
This is still early research... but more questions:
- What am I failing to consider?
- What's an appropriate price point to look at for my requirements (keeping in mind that I'd be paying as much as $150/mo. for transit when not using the bike)?
- Anyone else in a similar spot?