The new Blix Vika X folding e-bike is the latest release from the Santa Cruz-based company, known for making practical, no-nonsense e-bikes that focus on performance and everyday practicality. The Vika X stays true to that, but with some modern upgrades, like a 500W motor and a hybrid electronic shifting system with auto-shifting capabilities—features you don’t see often on folding e-bikes.
With the ability to switch between Class 2 and 3 for speeds up to 28 mph and a range of up to 70 miles, the Vika X packs a lot of juice into a slim package. Add in app connectivity and OTA updates, and you’ve got a bike that brings some tech-forward thinking without straying from Blix’s reliable, user-friendly lineup of existing e-bikes. So, lets see if the Vika X sets itself apart or blends into the growing sea of folding e-bikes.
My Experience Riding The Velotric Discover 1 Plus E-Bike
The Blix Vika X brings a lot to the table with its compact design and thoughtful features. Its 20” wheels and slim folding frame make it easy to maneuver, store, or toss into the back of your car for a trip. The Slate Grey color I tested is subtle yet sleek, offering that classic Brompton vibe without the high price tag—sitting at just $1,699.
The low 16-inch step-over height makes getting on and off nice and easy, especially paired with those 20” tires that let you put a foot down easily whenever needed. It’s a confidence boost for newer riders and anyone looking for a stable, relaxed ride.
With an upright, comfortable riding position, the Vika X feels like sitting at a dinner table with your hands naturally out in front—except this is a lot more comfy than grandma’s old wooden chair. Basically, I found it comfortable enough for longer rides, with a saddle and geometry that didn’t leave me sore.
The bike can switch between Class 2 and 3, hitting speeds up to 28 mph. While the 8-speed drivetrain starts ghost pedaling around 18 mph, the throttle will take you the rest of the way to 28 mph without a hitch. It’s a solid setup, though you’ll be relying on the throttle for higher speeds.
There are four assist modes: Eco, Tour, Turbo, and Auto. Eco prioritizes range, Tour strikes a balance, Turbo offers maximum assist for speed, and Auto adjusts the motor’s output based on your effort and terrain. The Auto-Shift feature even manages gear changes for you, though it’s still a bit of a work in progress. Shifts could be smoother, especially on steep climbs, but Blix is working to refine this with future updates.
One of my favorite features is the folding design. Blix added strong, frame-integrated magnets to keep the bike folded securely—no need to worry about it swinging open unexpectedly. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference, especially compared to other folding e-bikes that often require extra straps. The folded size is right around the advertised 36x21x28.5 inches, making it easy to stow away or carry. Overall, it’s one of the better-executed folding designs I’ve seen, and I think it raises the bar for other folders in the market to catch up to.
Range
Estimated Range (from Blix):
Real World Range Test Results:
- PAS Eco: 64 miles
- PAS Turbo: 39 miles
Blix claims the Vika X can hit up to 70 miles on a single charge, which is pretty standard for a folding e-bike in this class. In my real-world range tests, the results were solid, though not quite hitting that top-end estimate. On PAS Eco, I managed to squeeze out 64 miles, which is impressive given the bike’s 500W motor and folding design. That’s more than enough range for most daily commutes, and if you’re taking it easy on flat terrain, you could easily go a few days without needing to recharge.
On the other end of the spectrum, PAS Turbo gave me 39 miles, which is still respectable for the kind of power the motor delivers. This was at an average pace of about 16 MPH with some decent hill climbing and plenty of stop-and-go city riding thrown in. For context, Turbo mode cranks the motor to full power, so it’s no surprise the battery drains faster, but it’s nice to have when you want that extra boost without worrying too much about range.
If you’re someone who mostly sticks to city streets or paved paths, PAS Eco will get you through long days of riding without having to keep an eye on your battery. On the flip side, if you’re in a hurry or need that top-end speed on a hilly commute, you’ve still got nearly 40 miles of range to work with. Overall, the bike’s 614Wh battery holds up well, offering a good balance of range and power across different riding modes.
Power (Motor & Battery)
The Blix Vika X brings a solid power setup to the table for a folding e-bike. Powered by a 500W rear hub motor with 55Nm of torque, it’s definitely not lacking in punch. For a bike of this size and category, that motor provides plenty of zip for getting around town or tackling moderate hills, especially when you’re cruising in Class 3 mode with speeds up to 28 mph. It’s also configurable to Class 2 if you prefer a throttle-assisted ride with a top speed of 20 mph, so you’ve got options depending on your riding style or local regulations.
The battery is a 614.4Wh, 48V system with 12.8 amp-hours, which is a good match for the motor’s output. While it’s not the largest battery out there, it strikes a good balance for a folding bike. The combination gives you enough range and power to get through longer commutes or some weekend exploring without worrying about constantly finding a charger. It’s also integrated neatly into the frame but still removable, which makes it convenient for charging indoors or swapping out if needed.
For the type of bike it is—a folding, urban commuter—the power system feels well-suited. You’re not getting a mid-drive or super high torque here, but that’s not really what this bike is about. The 500W motor delivers smooth acceleration, and the 55Nm of torque is enough to keep things interesting when you need to climb hills or get up to speed quickly at stoplights. Overall, the Vika X’s motor and battery provide the right kind of power for everyday commuting or weekend rides, while keeping the bike compact and manageable.
Components
The Blix Vika X has a component setup that seems to be focused on commuting and practical everyday use. Starting with the basics, it’s a fully rigid bike with no suspension, which is typical for this category. The steel rigid fork is durable and pairs well with the 20” wheels, which keep the bike nimble and easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The 20×2.4” tires are puncture-resistant and have a reflective strip, adding some extra safety for low-light riding. You won’t be taking this bike off-road, but for city streets and paved paths, the setup works well, especially with the added peace of mind from the puncture protection.
The telescoping stem adds some flexibility for adjusting your handlebar height, though it doesn’t offer angle adjustment. The handlebars themselves are 640mm wide, giving you decent control, especially for a folding bike, where narrower bars are often the norm. The ergonomic rubber grips add a nice touch of comfort, and the 400mm alloy seatpost, with its 27.2mm diameter, offers a solid balance of durability and comfort. The comfort-padded saddle is simple but effective for commuting and short rides, though it may not be the most plush seat for longer journeys.
When it comes to stopping power, the Vika X is outfitted with Vika’s own branded hydraulic disc brakes that have 2-piston calipers and 180mm rotors with 2.3mm thickness. This brake setup delivers solid stopping power, which is essential on a folding bike that still has some decent weight and can reach speeds of 28 mph. Overall, the components on the Blix Vika X feel well-suited for its purpose as a folding commuter e-bike. You’re not getting high-end performance parts, but what’s here is practical, reliable, and gets the job done efficiently.
Auto Shifting Feature
The drivetrain on the Blix Vika X is an innovative hybrid electric system that’s unlike most I’ve come across. Instead of a traditional mechanical cable, the control pad sends an electronic signal to a control box near the bottom bracket, which then uses a sealed mechanical lever to pull the actual shift cable connected to the Microshift 26 rear derailleur. It’s a unique piece of tech—cool in concept and generally well-executed. However, with such a niche system, there’s always the question of how easy it will be to service or repair down the line, given its specialized nature.
When it comes to auto-shifting or e-shifting, the bike really shines in theory but still has some room for improvement. The system allows you to use the app to set a specific cadence and power wattage range, which, along with terrain sensor data, dictates when the bike shifts automatically. It’s a very cool idea that just needs a bit more fine-tuning. Right now, the feature is listed as “Beta” in the app, and it performs accordingly. Sometimes, the bike shifts awkwardly at odd moments, while other times, it feels spot-on. The good news? OTA updates should iron out these kinks as Blix gets more feedback from riders, so I’m optimistic that it’ll improve without needing a trip to the shop.
In manual mode, the Microshift 8-speed system, paired with a 46T chainring and 13-32T cassette, works smoothly and efficiently. It gives you a decent range for city riding, moderate hills, and the ability to pick up speed on flat terrain. Overall, the drivetrain is a solid mix of innovative tech with room to grow, and the more traditional manual shifting holds up well in the meantime.
Screen / User Interface / App
The Blix Vika X comes equipped with a clean, easy-to-read display that gives you all the key info you need during your ride. It shows your assist mode, speed, range, trip meter, gear mode, odometer, and even calorie consumption, which is a nice extra touch for those tracking their fitness. The display is intuitive and doesn’t feel cluttered, so whether you’re cruising around town or pushing the bike harder on longer commutes, all the important details are right there at a glance.
As for the app, Blix has partnered with the Ebike Connect app, which is available on both iOS and Android. This app adds a layer of convenience by allowing you to adjust settings, like the bike’s top speed, and fine-tune the auto-shifting feature by tweaking the cadence and wattage settings to fit your personal riding style. Also, and the app supports over-the-air updates, which is great for keeping your bike’s tech current without needing to visit a shop. The app itself has a smooth, user-friendly interface that integrates well with the Vika X, making it easy to manage your ride and settings on the go.
Overall, the combination of the display and app works well for a commuter-focused folding e-bike. It keeps things simple but also offers enough customization options for riders who want to dial in their experience, especially with the auto-shifting feature.
Blix Vika X Model Options
The Blix Vika X comes in a single frame size that’s designed to fit riders from 4’10” to 6’2”, offering a pretty versatile fit range for a folding e-bike. The step-over height is a low 16.6 inches, which makes it super easy to get on and off, especially in stop-and-go traffic or busy urban settings. Its upright geometry keeps you comfortable, with a reach of 16.2 inches, and adjustable handlebar height ranging from 41.7 to 47.6 inches. This adjustability makes it suitable for a wide range of rider heights, which is a big plus if multiple people in the household plan to use the bike.
In terms of style, Blix offers the Vika X in four color options: Racing Green, Slate Grey, Burgundy, and Steel Blue. I tested the Slate Grey model, and it’s a sleek, understated color that doesn’t scream for attention but still looks modern and well-designed.
As for accessories, Blix includes a free Vika Carrying Bag, which is a handy bonus for anyone planning to fold and transport the bike often. Beyond that, Blix offers a solid lineup of optional accessories to suit your needs. For extra comfort, you can opt for a Thudbuster LT G4 seatpost to absorb more bumps during your ride. If you’re using the bike for commuting or errands, you’ve got a variety of bags and racks to choose from, including the Top Rack Bag, Everyday Bag, and Front or Large Basket X. These attachment points give you a lot of flexibility for carrying cargo, groceries, or work gear, making the Vika X a practical choice for urban riders.
All in all, the Vika X is built with versatility in mind, making it a great option for commuters or anyone looking for a folding e-bike that can handle a wide range of rider heights and tasks. Whether you’re riding across town or packing it up for a road trip, the bike’s accessories and adjustable fit make it adaptable to most everyday needs.
Is The Blix Vika X Worth Buying?
After spending some quality time with the Blix Vika X, it’s clear that this bike is more than just a folding e-bike—it’s a versatile, practical choice for urban commuters and riders with limited storage space. The compact 20” wheels and folding design make it easy to transport or tuck away when not in use, but don’t let its small footprint fool you. With its 500W motor, up to 70 miles of range, and some smart tech features like Auto-Shift, the Vika X delivers a surprisingly smooth and capable ride.
There are a few areas that could be improved, like the Auto-Shift feature, which feels a bit rough around the edges and can struggle on steeper climbs. However, it’s still in beta, so I’m hopeful that future updates will smooth things out. The 8-speed drivetrain is solid but does start to ghost pedal at higher speeds, meaning you’ll rely more on throttle than pedaling when trying to max out the bike’s potential.
So, who is this bike for? The Blix Vika X is ideal for city commuters, casual riders, or anyone who needs a folding e-bike that doesn’t sacrifice power or range for convenience. It’s also a great option for those who like a bit of modern tech in their ride—between the app connectivity, automatic shifting, and customizable ride modes, there’s plenty to tweak and personalize to your liking.
In short, the Vika X is a strong contender in the folding e-bike market. It offers a lot of practicality without overcomplicating things, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants a reliable, feature-packed ride. While it’s not perfect, it gets a lot right, and at $1,699, it’s hard to argue with the value.
Pros
- The Auto PAS mode makes cruising effortless, automatically adjusting power and pedal assist levels based on your effort, so you don’t have to think about switching modes as you go.
- Frame-integrated magnets keep the bike securely folded, a feature that’s essential for folding e-bikes. It eliminates the need for extra straps and prevents the frame from swinging open unexpectedly while moving it.
- With speeds up to 28 mph and commuter-friendly features like headlights, tail lights, fenders, racks, an electric horn, and turn signals, the Vika X is well-equipped for everyday commuting.
- The app connectivity offers useful features like motor and shift tuning and bike diagnostics give the Vika X a modern tech edge.
- The classic, clean color options and black trim give the bike a sharp look, with four colors to choose from.
- Nearly 70 miles of range from a compact folding e-bike is impressive, making it a reliable choice for longer rides.
Cons
- Auto Shift is a promising feature, but it still needs some fine-tuning through an OTA update. In its current state, it’s not quite as practical as it could be, especially on steep hills.
- The gear range feels limited, with ghost pedaling starting around 18 mph. To reach speeds above 20 mph and up to the top speed of 28 mph, you’ll need to rely more on the throttle.
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