Great review. I’ve had this bike for 3 months and put 1,300 miles on it so far. Your take is correct, it is a really good bike overall that could use small changes. I’ve only had minor issues with the brakes and the chain started slipping fairly quickly…overall I love it
The hill I climb is 3.4 miles long and rises 1000’ in elevation. I’m 6’2” 280 lbs. I wish I could find an e-bike that is comfortable and can make this kind of climb without pedal assist. Just had knee surgery!
I’m 6-5 shopping for an e-bike and this has been one of the only bikes that fit me great and was a joy to ride. My only complaint is that the gears don’t support the higher sub 28mph speeds without peddling like crazy. No integrated back light at this price point is also a huge disappointment. I think the next generation will probably address these shortcomings. I’ve also rented a townie 5i mid drive and it had the most comfortable and natural feeling ride with minimal motor noise. I felt like Superman riding that bike! $$$$ I think I’ll be waiting until the spring to see what brand improvements there are. Nothing is more revealing than actually riding any bike to see if it fits you.
Another great review. At first thought it might be another option for my #1 choice being the Ride1up LMT'D. I do like placement of headlight and display. LMT'D display is very customizable, not sure about Denago. Other things I liked about Denago are the tires and frame size options. You could add fenders and back rack to the Ride1up LMT'D and get a more powerful motor, lighter bike, throttle from stop, torque sensor, and options to add bottle cage and front rack for similar price. I'm still looking at options, but tge LMT'D checks al tge boxes for me
Why would you say the PAS speed profile seems quite different between the City Model 1 and the Commute Model 1 ? Also do you notice any significant resistance to pedaling with no PAS ? Thanks!