Name: IZIP E3 Vibe+ Review
Item: IZIP E3 Vibe+
Author: Court Rye

Home
Reviews
Brands
IZIP Reviews
IZIP E3 Vibe+ Review

Izip E3 Vibe Plus 48 Volt Removable Rack Battery

Izip E3 Vibe Plus Velo Dual Density Basic Grips

Izip E3 Vibe Plus Seven Speed Shimano Altus

An approachable electric bike with deep low-step frame, adjustable stem, swept back handle bars and a large comfortable saddle
Simple linear pull brakes work well and are easy to adjust, quick release skewers on both wheels for hassle-free maintenance, removable battery pack for on or off-bike charging
Powerful mid-drive with four levels of assist and optional boost button pad (for throttle on demand operation), the lower levels of assist are smooth and quiet
No shift sensing built in to the drive unit so ease off, the motor responds mostly to cadence vs. torque so it’s easy to pedal, solid two year comprehensive warranty

Make:

IZIP

Model:

E3 Vibe+

Price:

$1,799

Body Position:

Upright

Suggested Use:

Neighborhood, Urban, Commuting

Electric Bike Class:

Pedal Assist (Class 1), Throttle on Demand (Class 2)

Learn more about Ebike classes

Warranty:

2 Year Comprehensive, Lifetime Frame

Availability:

United States

Model Year:

2016

Total Weight:

54 lbs (24.49 kg)

Battery Weight:

7.3 lbs (3.31 kg)

Motor Weight:

8.5 lbs (3.85 kg)

Frame Material:

6061 Aluminum Alloy

Frame Sizes:

13 in (33.02 cm)15 in (38.1 cm)17 in (43.18 cm)

Geometry Measurements:

16.5" Stand Over Height

Frame Types:

Step-Thru

Frame Colors:

Metallic Red with Black Accents

Frame Fork Details:

Rigid Aluminum Alloy

Attachment Points:

Rear Rack Bosses, Front Fender Bosses, Bottle Cage Bosses

Gearing Details:

7 Speed 1x7 Shimano Altus, CS-HG20-7, 22-30T

Shifter Details:

microSHIFT Triggers on Right

Cranks:

Lasco EB05 Chainring with Alloy Guide

Pedals:

Resin Platform with Non-Slip Tread

Headset:

VP Semi-Integrated Ahead, 4 Risers

Stem:

Promax Aluminum Alloy

Handlebar:

Promax 25.4 mm Diameter, Steel, 630 mm x 55 mm Rise

Brake Details:

Tektro Linear Pull with Generic Levers

Grips:

Velo Dual Density, Semi-Ergonomic Rubber

Saddle:

Velo Commuter with Integrated Handle

Seat Post:

Promax Aluminum Alloy with Quick Release Collar

Seat Post Length:

324 mm

Seat Post Diameter:

29.8 mm

Rims:

DM18 Alexrims Doublewall, Aluminum Alloy

Spokes:

Stainless Steel 13 Gauge, Black

Tire Brand:

Kenda Hybrid, 26" x 1.95"

Wheel Sizes:

26 in (66.04cm)

Tire Details:

Slime Inside (Self-Sealing Flat Tire Prevention System)

Tube Details:

Schrader Valve

Accessories:

Pre-Wired for 6 Volt LED Lights (Front and Rear), Single Side Adjustable Length Kickstand, Welded-On Battery Support Rack with Standard-Gauge Surround Bars (For Panniers or Trunk Bag), Aluminum Alloy Chain Guard

Other:

Locking Removable Battery Pack, 2 Amp 1.8 Pound Charger

Motor Brand:

Currie Electro-Drive® (TranzX), Model M16GTA

Motor Type:

Mid-Mounted Geared Motor

Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

350 watts

Motor Peak Output:

500 watts

Motor Torque:

68 Newton meters

Battery Brand:

Samsung or LG

Battery Voltage:

48 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

8.8 ah

Battery Watt Hours:

422.4 wh

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-ion

Charge Time:

5 hours

Estimated Min Range:

20 miles (32 km)

Estimated Max Range:

40 miles (64 km)

Display Type:

Fixed Monochrome Backlit LCD with Adjustable Angle

Readouts:

Speed, Odometer, Battery Capacity (5 Bars), Assist Level (0-4), Range Estimation

Display Accessories:

Independent Button Pad on Left

Drive Mode:

Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist (Optional Button Throttle)

Top Speed:

20 mph (32 kph)

Hide Advanced Search

Search Now

Make or Model

Model Year

Body Position

Suggested Use

Frame Type

Drive Mode

Availability

Price Range

$0 (0 €)$18,000 (16,920 €)

Total Weight

0 lbs (0 kg)227 lbs (103 kg)

Top Speed

0 mph (0.0 km/hr)50 mph (80.5 km/hr)

Battery Watt Hrs

0 watt3,456 watt

Frame Size

0 in (0.00 cm)432 in (1,097.28 cm)

Motor Power

0 Newton meters250 Nm

Trusted Advertisers

The original IZIP E3 Vibe has been completely remodeled for 2016 and is now called the Vibe Plus. The suspension fork is gone but the bike weighs nearly 10 pounds less and has a more streamlined battery pack. You get a more powerful and more efficient mid drive motor and a larger battery capacity but the price has risen a bit to compensate. With three frame sizes to choose from, the Vibe+ can be the most compact and easiest to mount electric bicycle in the IZIP family. For this review I was on the extra small frame… and it worked quite well once I raised the seat post a bit :)

This thing is easy to mount, relatively stable and at ~54 pounds it’s not super heavy considering the sturdy rear rack, oversized handle bars and comfort accessories. I spent a bunch of time riding in pedal assist level one because it’s the smoothest and slowest mode (topping out around 11 mph). This is an electric bike that would do well in neighborhoods or around town, perhaps running short errands and loading food or school supplies. While it only comes in one color scheme (metallic red with black accents) I noticed that the spokes, chain guard, saddle and grips all tied in. The electronic wires are also black but seamlessly pass through the downtube so you don’t notice them as much. It’s a good looking ebike but one that also feels sturdy, I love that the tire tubes come with Slime installed to help resist flats and appreciate the front and rear quick release skewers that come in handy if you do have to perform maintenance or transport the bike.

This ebike uses more basic components but not quite bottom of the line… You get Tektro linear pull brakes, a seven speed Shimano Altus derailleur, a decent kickstand and a nice chain guard to keep your pants or dress clean. The rear-mounted battery doubles as a cargo rack and fender but positions the weight of the battery high and towards the rear compromising frame stiffness and handling to a limited extent. Frankly, it works fine for basic city riding. My favorite parts about this model are the powerful motor, easy to read display panel and optional boost button (which costs $50 extra) that turns this into a Class 2 electric bike offering throttle on demand.

Once you’ve charged the battery (on or off the frame!) and mounted it, you press the power button towards the left side of the pack then press another power button near the display console to get the systems all booted up. It’s more involved than I’d like but once it’s online the button pad makes changing modes or screen readouts very easy. You can arrow up or down between four levels of assist with increasing speed and power as you get up to four (topping out at 20 mph). The motor responds mostly to pedal cadence verses torque and I prefer this for more relaxed riding because my knees get sensitive if I push too hard. There’s no shift-sensing feature on this drive system so keep that in mind but given the gentler pedaling for around-town use that shouldn’t be a huge issue here :)

Pros:

One of the smallest and easiest to mount electric bikes I’ve tested, the single-tube low-step frame offers a 16.5″ stand over height and the seat can go down to ~28″ off ground level
The rear rack is setup with a “cage” that protects the battery but can also work with a trunk bag or side mounted panniers, it uses standard gauge tubing that should be compatible with the widest range of accessories including clip-on panniers
I love that you can purchase the “boost button” and turn this into a Class 2 electric bike for $50 and that it’s pre-wired with 6 volt leads for adding lights
The rear rack functions as a fender to keep your back dry and there are mounting points on the front fork for adding a 26″ fender
The tire tubes come with Slime inside designed to plug holes and stop leaks, you could bring along a mini-pump in a bag or mount one like this to the bottle cage bosses along the downtube
Available in three frame sizes including the extra small 13″ which would be perfect for petite riders, it’s nice that it also goes large for taller people who just want to save money and prefer step-thru
The drive unit relies mostly on cadence sensing so you don’t have to push especially hard in order to make the motor go, this is good for people with sensitive knees or when riding with a heavier load but may drain the battery a bit faster than torque sensing
Extra attention to detail with the plastic sticker slap guard on the right chain stay, the aluminum chain guide to keep the chain on track and black painted spokes that match the tires and black highlights of the frame, I also like that most of the wires and cables are internally routed through the frame so it looks nicer
The electronic systems all “talk to each other” using CAN bus (Controller Area Network) which makes diagnosing issues and updating firmware much easier for shops, that’s a unique feature for a more affordable ebike like the Vibe Plus

Cons:

The battery pack has to be switched on before the display panel can be activated, it’s an extra step that takes time and can be easy to forget… also, the button pad on/off has to be held for three or four seconds and once the display begins booting up there’s an eight second countdown to wait through
There is a “zero” assist level that completely shuts off the motor but leaves the display active like a cycle computer (or to power integrated lights) but it’s kind of hidden, once the display is on and you’re in assist level 1 just hold the power button on the button pad for a couple of seconds and it will go to zero, another tip is to hold the plus button for a few seconds to activate the lights and display backlighting and to hold the box icon to switch from mph to km/h
The display backlighting only has two options (on or auto) so you can’t switch it off completely if you want to ride without light which could be annoying for some people
Because the Vibe+ uses a single-tube frame and the battery is mounted on a rear rack, there is some frame flex (especially if you stand up and pedal hard)
Without a suspension fork the bike can feel a little stiff and jarring at higher speed, the tires are medium in size which adds some bounce and comfort and the saddle is oversized but you might consider getting a suspension seat post to reduce bumps while riding (you’ll need a 27.2 mm to 29.8 mm seat post shim like this in order to make it work)

Resources:

Official Site: https://izipelectric.com/electric-bikes/leisure#desc-bottom
More Pictures: https://goo.gl/photos/3gmcrHhZrEzSszfE8

January 29, 2024 (10 months ago)

IZIP E3 Brio Review

MSRP: $1,699
MODEL YEAR: 2019

All new for 2019, the IZIP E3 Brio is an affordable and lightweight commuter with a lot of included goodies, an SR Suntour rear hub-motor, two frame styles and two color options, and an entry level price point. 7 speed Shimano derailleur, mechanical disc brakes, integrated fenders, battery integrated lights, adjustable rear rack,…...

Read Review

IZIP E3 Edge Review

MSRP: $1,999
MODEL YEAR: 2019

An affordable entry level hardtail mountain mid-drive ebike that is at home on the streets and trails, priced at $1,999 and legal for all Class 1 jurisdictions. Comes in a mid-step and high-step, two different colors (black with yellow accents or blue…...

IZIP E3 Loma Review

A new and unique frame for 2019 that is striking and comes in two frame sizes, each with a different wheel size, both really look great in the two colors and reflective accents available. Some key features like battery intergraded front and rear lights, a throttle, and a battery…...

IZIP E3 Simi Review

MSRP: $1,599
MODEL YEAR: 2019

All new for 2019, the IZIP E3 Simi is an affordable and lightweight cruiser with comfortable riding position and an SR Suntour rear hub motor, two frame styles and two color options, and an entry level price point. Mechanical disc brakes, paint matched steel frame, integrated lights, rear rack, comfortable riding geometry, swept…...

IZIP E3 TRLZ Review

A value-priced hardtail electric mountain bike with basic 100mm SR Suntour spring suspension fork and knobby Vee Rubber tires, no lockout or preload adjust, no puncture protection or tubeless setup. Available in three frame sizes and two frame styles, I like the mid-step frame because…...

IZIP E3 Vida Review

MSRP: $2,749
MODEL YEAR: 2018

A relatively lightweight, approachable, comfortable cruiser electric bike, oversized saddle and padded grips dampen vibration, available in two colorways and three frame sizes to fit style preferences and body types. 26-inch wheels lower the frame height and provide more strength than 700c, high-volume 2.4-inch Schwalbe…...

IZIP E3 Moda Review

MSRP: $2,999
MODEL YEAR: 2018

An urban oriented speed pedelec, capable of 28 mph pedal-assisted speeds, complete with wide alloy fenders, a streamlined rear rack, and integrated LED lights. Powerful hydraulic disc brakes with adjustable levers, the front rotor is larger at 180mm and…...

IZIP E3 Peak DS Review

MSRP: $3,999
MODEL YEAR: 2018

A full suspension trail style electric bike with 130 mm travel, purpose-built frame comes in two sizes with internally routed cables, custom motor integration, sturdy Boost hub spacing. Nimble 2.6" plus sized tires balance traction, stability, and comfort with precision, control, and weight…...

IZIP E3 Zuma Review

MSRP: $1,899
MODEL YEAR: 2018

A value-priced cruiser from a larger trusted company, available in a high-step and mid-step frame styles with one color pattern for each (white or metallic gray). Efficient mid-drive motor keeps weight low and center, the battery clicks in from the left…...

IZIP E3 ProTour Review

MSRP: $3,299
MODEL YEAR: 2017

An efficient, feature-complete, speed pedelec capable of ~28 mph top speed with excellent frame balance but limited suspension and comfort options. Alloy fenders and minimalist rear rack stay quiet on bumpy terrain, an alloy chain guide…...

IZIP E3 Peak+ Review

MSRP: $3,099
MODEL YEAR: 2017

A mean looking cross country style hardtail electric mountain bike, beautifully integrated battery pack and motor keep weight low and center, has rear-rack bosses!. Locking removable battery pack can be charged on or off the bike, the display is…...

IZIP E3 Dash Review

MSRP: $2,599
MODEL YEAR: 2017

A value-priced urban electric bike that includes fenders, integrated LED lights, a rear rack, and hydraulic disc brakes, it's available in three frame sizes but only high-step. This is a high-speed Class 3 ebike that can reach ~28 mph assisted and because…...

IZIP E3 Sumo Review

MSRP: $3,199
MODEL YEAR: 2017

A rigid electric fat bike with provisions for front and rear racks, available in two frame sizes for improved fit, designed with a steep top tube for comfortable stand over and steadying. Beautifully integrated Bosch Performance Line CX motor and battery pack, downtube is cut away and…...

IZIP E3 Go Review

A purpose-built electric tricycle with efficient and well-balanced middrive motor system, powerful 48 volt battery and optional second battery bay for increased range, rear wheel drive offers good traction. Comfortable swept-back handlebar with ergonomic grips, massive padded saddle with springs and hybrid tires keep…...

2017 IZIP E3 Peak DS Review

MSRP: $4,199
MODEL YEAR: 2017

A value-driven full suspension electric cross country mountain bike with higher end drive system and components from Bosch, SRAM and RockShox, it's $300 cheaper than prior year with lots of upgrades. Beautiful hydroformed frame with inset battery mount and tapered head tube, the motor hangs down…...

2016 IZIP E3 ProTour Review

MSRP: $2,999
MODEL YEAR: 2016

One of the coolest looking, most feature rich high-speed electric bicycles I've tested... the battery is beautifully integrated and the small motor stays almost completely hidden behind the chainring. Pedal assist gets you 28 mph using speed, cadence and torque sensing and you can…...

2016 IZIP E3 Sumo Review

MSRP: $3,099
MODEL YEAR: 2016

One of the lighter weight, higher powered and more affordable off-road capable fat bikes I've tested, you get 15 mm and 12 mm thru-axles with quick release and punched out rims. Sturdy Shimano M396 hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, no motor inhibitors in the levers…...

IZIP E3 Peak Review

MSRP: $2,799
MODEL YEAR: 2016

A 650B hardtail trail or mountain ebike with a powerful 73 Nm mid-drive motor, it's one of the quieter motors but less responsive (mostly cadence sensing) and no shift sensing. Nice 180 mm hydraulic disc brakes, quick release for both wheels and a 15 mm…...

2016 IZIP E3 Dash Review

MSRP: $2,599
MODEL YEAR: 2016

A feature complete speed pedelec (capable of ~28 mph top speeds) with a high torque mid-drive motor from TranzX. Quality full length plastic fenders from SKS with integrated mud flaps, mid-level suspension fork with…...

IZIP E3 Path+ Review

MSRP: $2,299
MODEL YEAR: 2016

An efficient, light weight commuter electric bike available in two frame sizes and high-step or step-thru styles, the adjustable stem and swept back bars support a surprisingly comfortable upright body position. Narrower tires, firm saddle and all-Aluminum frame and fork provide great power transfer when pedaling…...

2016 IZIP E3 Zuma Review

MSRP: $2,499
MODEL YEAR: 2016

A high powered, cruiser style electric bike with four levels of zippy pedal assist and a twist throttle drive mode. Available in two high-step sizes (18" and 20") and one step-thru (18") for easier mounting,…...

2015 IZIP E3 Sumo Review

MSRP: $3,650
MODEL YEAR: 2015

One of the only fat tire style electric bikes I've tested to date that is legally capable of 25+ mph top speeds in pedal assist mode. Good value considering the custom fat frame in two sizes, solid warranty and availability, hydraulic…...

2015 IZIP E3 Peak DS Review

MSRP: $4,500
MODEL YEAR: 2015

Full suspension electric bike with powerful mid-drive motor for effective climbing and balanced weight, higher ~28 mph top speed. Removable battery pack and quick release wheels make charging and servicing convient, reduce weight when…...

2015 IZIP E3 Peak Review

MSRP: $3,100
MODEL YEAR: 2015

Hardtail trail-ready electric bike with powerful centerdrive motor for effective climbing and balanced weight, ~28 mph top speed. Removable battery pack for convenient charging and reduced transport weight, lockout suspension fork by RockShox…...

2015 IZIP E3 Zuma Review

MSRP: $2,550
MODEL YEAR: 2015

Cruiser style electric bike with two frame styles, two frame sizes, 11 custom colors and a wonderfully balanced purpose-built frame. Removable battery can be charged on or off the bike, optional matching fenders, rear rack…...

2015 IZIP E3 Path+ Review

MSRP: $2,600
MODEL YEAR: 2015

Near-silent commuter style electric bike offering pedal assist and throttle mode, fenders and a carry rack. Comfortable ride with upright seating position, swept back handlebars and oversized Velo comfort saddle...

2015 IZIP E3 Dash Review

MSRP: $2,900
MODEL YEAR: 2015

High performance city style electric bike that offers throttle mode up to 20mph and pedal assist up to 28mph. Comfortable ride with oversized 700x45c tires, suspension fork with lockout and updated Velo Street saddle...

IZIP E3 Twn:exp Review

MSRP: $2,900
MODEL YEAR: 2014

A sturdy, highly adjustable city bike that's perfect for rentals or fleets. High torque 400 watt direct drive motor is quiet and extremely durable, encased in rear…...

2014 IZIP E3 Path+ Review

MSRP: $2,200
MODEL YEAR: 2014

An active urban-style electric bike with near-silent motor operation and clean design helping it blend in. Strong 500 watt motor paired with large 48 volt battery that's removable and uses premium…...

IZIP E3 Metro Review

MSRP: $2,800
MODEL YEAR: 2014

Sturdy, stiff and capable of hauling cargo with the reinforced front basket and welded rear rack. Oversized tires, adjustable stem and seat post suspension improved comfort when riding...

2014 IZIP E3 Zuma Review

MSRP: $2,400
MODEL YEAR: 2014

Clean design with integrated battery pack improves balance, eight frame colors to choose from. Delivers smooth pedal assist and twist throttle mode for easy start from rest...

2014 IZIP E3 Dash Review

MSRP: $2,600
MODEL YEAR: 2014

High quality features and well rounded drive system at an excellent price. Strong but quiet 500 watt gearless rear hub motor offers throttle mode and torque-sensing pedal…...

2014 IZIP E3 Peak Review

MSRP: $3,000
MODEL YEAR: 2014

Mid-level off road electric mountain bike with excellent weight distribution. Centerdrive motor offers high-torque, leverages rear cassette and makes servicing wheels and tires much easier...

2013 IZIP E3 Metro Review

MSRP: $2,699
MODEL YEAR: 2013

Strong 500 watt motor is capable of moving heavier riders and heavier loads in the integrated racks. Weight is spread out from rear and kept low to the ground with battery built…...

IZIP E3 Compact Review

MSRP: $2,150
MODEL YEAR: 2013

Built on the industry leading Dahon single speed folding bicycle frame. Offers both pedal assist and twist and go throttle mode...

IZIP E3 Path Review

MSRP: $1,699
MODEL YEAR: 2013

An affordable, classic style electric bike with balanced features. Weaker 250 watt motor offers less torque but also weighs less...

2013 IZIP E3 Zuma Review

MSRP: $2,199
MODEL YEAR: 2013

Solid frame with oversized cushy tires and seat delivers a fluid enjoyable ride. Powerful 500 watt geared rear hub motor paired with 36 volt Lithium-ion battery offers torque…...

IZIP Express Review

MSRP: $2,799
MODEL YEAR: 2012, 2013

Ultra powerful and rugged long-range electric bike, originally designed for use by the Los Angeles police force for urban patrols. Unique mid-drive belt system delivers high torque for climbing and accelerating, speed pedelec design capable…...

IZIP E3 Ultra Review

MSRP: $2,899
MODEL YEAR: 2013

Powerful 500 Watt motor paired with strong 36 Volt battery for acceleration and climbing ability. Sensitive pedal assist mode becomes jerky when climbing hills but is otherwise very responsive...

IZIP E3 Vibe Review

MSRP: $999
MODEL YEAR: 2013

Upright seating with high-rise handlebars, wide sprung saddle and seat post shock for improved comfort. 250 watt brushless rear hub motor works well with pedal assist or throttle mode for…...

IZIP Trekking Enlightened Review

MSRP: $1,999
MODEL YEAR: 2009

Discontinued in 2009, replaced with the E3 Path which is sturdier, less expensive and features twist throttle as well as pedal assist. Designed to be pedaled, the Trekking Enlightened lacks throttle mode but features 24 speed, lights,…...

IZIP Urban Cruiser Enlightened Review

MSRP: $1,899
MODEL YEAR: 2009

A relaxed, comfortable and stable cruiser style electric bike with integrated downtube-battery that keeps weight low and center. Smooth torque sensing pedal assist is responsive but requires more care when working on the…...

Jordan

8 years ago

Big fan of your videos,man! I’m in my mid 30’s and getting back into cycling after an 8 year hiatus. I live in Southern California on a hill above the ocean. I’t about a 1.5 mile commute down to the beach, of which 1/2 a mile is very steep… I would say about 30%. The downhill’s a blast (sometimes a bit scary) but it’s the uphill ride back home that send a novice to the E.R. I need power, and lot’s of it. After some research, I’ve narrowed down my search to the Vanmoof Electrified S and the Stromer ST2… mostly based on technology, aesthetics, and the larger batteries and power trains. Which one will better tackle the “hill of doom”? Any other suggestions welcome. Thanks, J

Court Rye

Hi Jordan! I’d go with any of the Stromer models (ST1 or ST2) because they ride more comfortably than the Vanmoof. It has a neat aesthetic but the large stiff aluminum tubes don’t flex and just feel really hard and stiff compared to other frame designs. I haven’t tested the Electrified S so I can’t say for sure but I currently have an ST1 Limited Edition and it’s awesome… has regen to help you brake down the hill, the motor is super powerful and quiet and it just feels good thanks to a Carbon fiber fork. Again, this is a bit of a one sided opinion but my experience with the Vanmoof frames has just been uncomfortable.

Ron

The IZIP E3 Vibe+ seems almost identical to the Raleigh Sprite iE. Does it also have 6 volt wires at the front and rear to add lights?

Also, do you have any preference between these two bikes?

Thanks

Hi Ron! You’re correct, Raleigh Electric and IZIP are owned by the same parent company called Accell North America. They put out several of the same models that are just colored and accessorized differently in order to reach different dealers. I believe that yes, they both have wires for lights. I’d go for the one you can get at a dealer so they can fit you and service the product (unless one color appeals to you more than another).