This article has been moved to my new website: eBikesGo.com
I have been fascinated by the idea of electric bikes for a while now and decided to dive in and get one. I purchased an Ecotric off of Amazon for $625. I bought it Monday morning, it was delivered to a local bike shop on Thursday morning, the assembled it yesterday and I picked it up this morning.
My initial impressions after my 4.6 mile ride home:
It’s pretty cool. Actually nicer than I was expecting for their cheapest model. Pedal assist is helpful for getting going and the throttle is great for quickly getting thru intersections, away from cars and up inclines.
It’s fastest speed is only a little faster than my fastest consistent pace. Seems perfect. Exactly what I was looking for. Now we just see how reliable and durable it is.
The pedal assist has three modes. Low helps you get to 40% of max speed, medium 75% and high 100%. It’s really clever. Low is good if you are starting from a dead stop. The others are god to help you when cruising.
Very happy with the free installation Amazon arranged. They helped me adjust the bike to my size and showed me the controls. Plus it was quick (and free!)
Some bike accessories I have purchased:
Has U Lock and Shackle for securing front tire and/or helmet etc.
Bike is pretty rigid and riding city streets can be pretty rough so gelled gloves are a wise purchase.
Baleaf Men’s 3D Padded Bike Bicycle MTB Cycling Underwear Shorts
Same reason as above just lower region.
Trying to carry two. This one is rechargeable, other has batteries.
BV Bicycle Light Set Super Bright 5 LED Headlight, 3 LED Taillight, Quick-Release
Trying to carry two. This one is has batteries, other is rechargeable.
Bike Phone Mount for any Smart Phone
For directions and recording routes.
Need music, right?
Mubasel Gear Backpack – Packable Lightweight Backpacks
I wanted something light, bright and with room for my Microsoft Surface
Need bungee cords to take bike on the Metra in Chicago – see regulations here: Bikes on Metra
Self Pro Mens Headbands – Sweatband & Sports Headband – Performance Stretch & Moisture Wicking
Because, ya know, sweat.
I have nothing negative to say about the items above so far. I’ll review further when I get more rides in.
Frequently Asked Questions (by Dustin)
How much does it weigh?
Not sure but I would guess around 50 lbs. I’ll update after I carry it up the stairs.
Why did you buy the white one when there was a black one?
Because dirt and blood don’t show up as well on black.
What is the top speed?
Amazon page says 21mph but my cyclemeter app says I got it up close to 30 but that was probably sprint pedaling.
Something, something average speed?
My Cyclemeter had my average speed on a 15 mile ride through the city at 15mph. As you may have guessed that trip took an hour.
How do you get the battery off?
Very easy. Unlock it with provided key then slide it off. You can recharge off the bike which is convenient.
How long does it take to charge?
Manual says 4-6 hours.
Will it go on a standard car mount or the mount on the city bus?
I have not tried yet but both seem likely especially since the battery comes off.
How does it ride after a wipeout?
Unfortunately, I do know the answer to this one. I wiped pretty good and no signs of damage other than to the paint and busted fender. Rode it 1.5 miles home after the fact.
Biking around Chicago Ideas
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