The Motiv Spark is a classic cruiser style electric bike designed for relaxed, comfortable rides. I’ve always appreciated the more upright position this style of bike offers but pedaling isn’t always a joy. They tend to be heavier and lack gear range for climbing but the Spark only shines in these areas. It’s relatively light (for an ebike), includes six speeds for pedaling and includes a powerful 500 watt geared motor and centrally mounted Lithium-ion battery pack that offer solid torque and speed. With three battery options to choose from, a myriad of color schemes and standard features like front and rear disc brakes and pre-Slimed tires, this bike’s easy to enjoy.
Motiv actually offers two Cruiser models and this is the larger high-step version. If you prefer low step or are a petite rider then check out the Sleek. Both bikes leverage the same 500 watt geared rear hub motor that works well but doesn’t weigh a whole lot or make much noise. Geared motors have more moving parts and may wear out faster but this one felt great and Motiv has a solid warranty with good quick support. Keep in mind, if you’re a heavier rider and forcing the bike up a steep hill, the motor has an automatic overheat shutoff. If this ever happens to you on any electric bike just wait a bit and then the motor should return to normal. Also, consider walking it up…
If you are in need of extra power the Motiv Spark has got you covered. The highest end battery pack offers 48 volts of power which is at the high end for ebikes. All battery packs are designed to fit just behind the seat post tube and that keeps the weight low and centered on the bike. You can buy an extra pack for increased range but this bike should get 25+ miles and while it doesn’t offer pedal assist (which would increase the range) there are six speeds to pedal with and the bike rides very comfortably. I love that you can charge the pack on or off the bike (perfect for commuting) but not a huge fan of the way the key is integrated, you have to leave it in the battery to make the bike go. It’s good for security but not fun if your key is dangling the whole way to work.
This bike only offers twist throttle mode and that’s sort of a pro and a con. It keeps the bike simpler, more durable and probably helps with the great pricepoint. The throttle is modular and can be replaced but doesn’t offer much in the way if feedback about the battery capacity, rider speed or distance. It’s a simple setup but one that’s worked well on cruiser style ebikes since the beginning. I would have loved to see integrated lights because I’m not a fan of having to change batteries and remove lights at every stop (to keep them safe). Fenders are also a nice-to-have but at least the Spark has mounting points to make adding racks and fenders very easy.
No electric bike is perfect, each one is designed to carry out a specific task well (or it gets diluted with features and becomes overpriced). I’ve become a big fan of Motiv electric bikes because they deliver high quality features in areas I think are important while keeping the price low. The motor, battery, battery position, dual disc brakes and great pedals are winning picks. The extra little bell on the brake lever, chain protector, upgradable tires and customizable color options are just icing on the cake. This would be a great choice for anyone who likes cruiser style bikes and is definitely a step up from “entry level” even though it’s priced well enough to make it a solid contender as a first e-bike.
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Jerry Sammons
9 years agoLooking at the Motiv Spark 48v. 59 year old, 200# man. Ride around the neighbor hood, maybe carry 6 pack to neighbors house. Total round trip, with small hills, 3 miles, maybe 3 times a week. Your thoughts.
ReplyCourt Rye
9 years agoHey Jerry, that sounds perfect for your needs… especially for the price. Motiv is a smaller company with good support, the team is friendly and if you live in SoCal you can actually meetup with them or even rent one of their bikes at some of the shops in Irvine (near Huntington Beach or South at Newport). I went on a ride with the two founders (we all took cruisers) and they are heavier than me, likely in the ~200 lb range, and nobody fell behind or had issues. We climbed a couple of fairly large hills and with a bit of pedaling and some speed going in the bikes made it just fine :)
ReplyMax C.
9 years agoThanks for the review! This site has been super helpful to me. I was just wondering if you knew the motor/battery brand? is it high quality like Samsung batteries?
ReplyThe Motiv Team
9 years agoHey Max,
Fill free to give us a call 800-679-3673
Thanks,
Reply//The Motiv Team\
Jim Pluimer
4 years agoI purchased a Motiv Spark in 2015, and I absolutely love it. After six years I’m still riding it. The only thing I had to do (besides airing the tires in the spring) was to replace the rear tire. (Four thousand miles of riding will do that.) The seat is extremely comfortable. I love that the Spark lacks pedal assist. Nothing complicated, just twist the throttle and go; no matter which gear you are in. I am surprised that the battery still has plenty of pep. I am 6′ 2″, 175 pounds, and 72 years old., I feel like a 12 year old when I am riding the Motiv Spark. Whether I’m riding the streets, or riding the trails, it’s one sweet ride! The Motiv Spark is built to last.
ReplyCourt
4 years agoThanks for the great testimonial here, Jim! Sounds like the bike is performing well and you’re really enjoying it. That’s awesome!
Reply