Blix Dubbel Review

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Blix Dubbel Review

A feature-complete utility electric bike with extra large off-road tires! It comes with a sturdy rear rack that can be used for a passenger if you get the pad and pegs, two integrated lights, and steel fenders. Excellent bags, baskets, and child seat options too.
Deep step-thru frame is easy to mount and stand over. Adjustable handlebar and seat post offer good fit, but the bike only comes in one size. There are three nice color options, the 8-speed drivetrain is above average, and the hydraulic disc brakes have motor inhibitors.
Streamlined smartphone app allows for trip planning with GPS, locking the bike, and adjusting from Class 2 to Class 3 high speed performance. Very powerful hub motor, high resolution pedal assist, trigger throttle on the left, sturdy Wellgo pedals, and two bottle mount locations.
The 3.3" extra-wide tires provide stability, float, and traction. The fork and fenders are steel, so they may rust if scratched. The bike is fairly heavy, and the kickstand hangs down low. Separate keys for the dual battery option, charger is light and compact but kind of slow, bike is very heavy.

Make:

Blix

Model:

Dubbel

Price:

$1999

Body Position:

Upright

Suggested Use:

Neighborhood

Electric Bike Class:

Throttle on Demand (Class 2), Speed Pedelec (Class 3)

Learn more about Ebike classes

Warranty:

1 Year Comprehensive, Extended Warranty Options (2 Years $160, 3 Years $220)

Availability:

United States

Model Year:

2023

Motor Brand:

Shengyi

Motor Type:

Rear-Mounted Geared Hub

Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

750 watts

Motor Peak Output:

950 watts

Motor Torque:

90 Newton meters

Battery Brand:

Samsung 18650 3,500 mAh 35E

Battery Voltage:

48 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

14 ah

Battery Watt Hours:

672 wh

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-ion

Charge Time:

6 hours

Estimated Min Range:

25 miles (40 km)

Estimated Max Range:

80 miles (129 km)

Display Type:

Circular Grayscale Backlit Display, Readout, Buttons: Up, Down, Power, Lights: Hold Up, Walk Mode: Hold Down, Settings: Hold O, Bluetooth Enabled, 600 Hours of Riding Memory Data Storage, 6-Month Coin Battery Up-Time in Sleep Mode, Connects to Blix App: Toggle Between eBike Class 2 and 3, Track Battery Health, Social Connection, Navigate Routes, Software Updates, Quick Access to Support

Readouts:

Current Speed, Assist Level (1-5), Trip Distance, Odometer, Battery Charge Level

Drive Mode:

Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist, Trigger Throttle

Top Speed:

28 mph (45 kph)

Total Weight:

70 lbs (31.75 kg)

Battery Weight:

7.6 lbs (3.45 kg)

Motor Weight:

9 lbs (4.08 kg)

Frame Material:

6061 Aluminum Alloy

Frame Sizes:

18 in (45.72 cm)

Geometry Measurements:

18.25" Seat Tube, 23.25" Top Tube, 15" Reach, 16.5" Stand Over Height, 33" Minimum Saddle Height, 26.5" Width, 44.5" Wheelbase, 68" Length

Frame Types:

Step-Thru

Frame Colors:

Bright White, Slate Grey, Matte Nu Cream

Frame Fork Details:

Custom Rigid Steel with Mounting Points on Fork Arms, 135mm Hub Spacing, 9mm Axle with Quick Release Skewer

Frame Rear Details:

190mm Hub Spacing, 10mm Slotted Threaded Axle with Nuts

Attachment Points:

Fender Mounts, Front Rack Mounts, Rear Rack Mounts, 2 Bottle Cage Mounts, Fork Arm Mounts

Gearing Details:

8Speed 1x11 Shimano RD-RX817 GRX Di2 Derailleur, Shimano CS-M8000 11-42 Tooth Cassette

Shifter Details:

Microshift TS38-8R 8 Speed, Thumb Tap Trigger Shifter on Right with Optical Gear Window (Single Shift High Lever, Triple Shift Low Lever)

Cranks:

Prowheel RPF-FD20SGG, Forged Aluminum Alloy Arms, 170mm Length, Square Taper Bottom Bracket Spindle, 48 Tooth Steel Chainring with Aluminum Alloy Guide

Pedals:

Wellgo B249DU, Aluminum Alloy Platform, Black

Headset:

Feimin FP-H863, Threadless, Steel Steerer, Straight 1-1/8"

Stem:

HL MX-628-8 BMX Style, 6061 Aluminum Alloy, 50mm Length, 22.2mm Clamp Diameter, One 15mm Tapered Base Spacer

Handlebar:

RUIAN BMX Style, 6061 Aluminum Alloy, 149mm 5.8" Rise, 660mm Width, 22.2mm Bore

Brake Details:

ZOOM HB-875-E Hydraulic Disc with 180mm Rotors, Two-Finger Levers with Adjustable Reach and Motor Inhibitors

Grips:

Velo MTB, 120mm, AT-Rubber Gel, Double Density, Closed End, 22mm Cap Diameter, Non-Locking

Saddle:

Velo VL-6418, Comfort Series, 268x202mm, Steel Rails

Seat Post:

Aluminum Alloy, 25mm Setback, Quick Release Collar

Seat Post Length:

350 mm

Seat Post Diameter:

27.2 mm

Rims:

Aluminum Alloy, Double Walled, KT Front Hub

Spokes:

Stainless Steel, 13 Gauge Front 12 Gauge Rear, Black

Tire Brand:

Kenda K905, 20" x 3.3" (84-406)

Wheel Sizes:

20 in (50.8cm)

Tire Details:

30 PSI Max, 30 TPI, K-Shield Puncture Protection

Tube Details:

Schrader Valve

Accessories:

SATE-LITE C7 Plus Integrated Headlight (80 LUX), Flick Bell on Right, Double Leg Kickstand, Steel Fenders, Integrated Rear Rack Aluminum Alloy Tubing (200lbs Max Load, Single LED Light), Rubberized Mesh Skirt Guard on Rear Rack, Optional Front Rack (50lbs Max Load), Optional Front Basket, Optional Ultra Wheel Guards, Optional Rear Rack Cushion, Optional Passenger Foot Pegs, Optional Mini VIP Section, Optional Frame Bag

Other:

Locking Removable Downtube and Seat Tube Mounted Batteries, ST 48 Volt 1.2lb 2 Amp Charger, Basic Assembly Toolkit, IP65 Rated Electronics, Max Weight Rider 270 lbs, Rear Rack 150 lbs, Front Rack 50 lbs

This review was provided for free, but Blix shipped and assembled the bike through Fit n Fun Ebikes to make it easier for me. My goal is to be transparent and unbiased with you, this video and writeup are not meant to be an endorsement of Blix products. I welcome your corrections, additions, and feedback in the comments below, and the Blix electric bike forums.

Observations:

This is a utility bike with almost fat sized tires. They’re 3.3″ wide, and fat starts at 4.0″ wide. You get a lot of the same benefits including stability, lower attack angle, comfort, and improved traction for off-road use. Given that there is no suspension fork here, the tires add a lot of comfort, and you could always add a suspension seat post as well.
Blix is based in Santa Cruz, California and has been operating since 2006. I feel that they offer some of the best value in the industry, keeping prices low but using high quality parts. They offer free shipping in the lower 48 US States, and also sell through dealers. I was really impressed with the price of the Ultra, especially considering that it’s dual-battery capable and has such a custom frame.

Pros:

This electric bike is very capable, and I love how many mounting points it has! You can use the seat tube and downtube bosses for bottles, folding locks, mini pumps, or their frame bag! There are four threaded eyelets on both sections of the frame vs. just two. And, there are even two threaded eyelets on both of the fork arms.
Blix created a custom purpose built frame for the Dubbel, and there’s lots of attention to detail with the internally routed cables, dual battery integration (both kept low and center), the multiple bottle cage mounting points on the downtube and seat tube, and the heavy duty rear rack with 200lb load limit. Another easy to miss improved design is how they routed the motor power cable on the left side of the frame, where it’s more protected from feet if a passenger is stepping onto the bike and resting their feet on the pegs. Note the two positions for mounting the pegs so it fits small and large passengers comfortably.
The carrying capacity is very impressive. It offers up to 270lbs for the captain, up to 200lbs for the rear rack, and up to 50lbs for the optional front tray and basket. That’s way above average, especially for a step-thru frame, and the smaller diameter wheels make it very easy to approach and load with gear, smaller wheels tend to be sturdier as well.
The front rack option is done perfectly, it mounts to the steer tube of the frame instead of the fork or handlebar. This means it will not turn as you steer the bike, it won’t influence steering or dump to the side when you park. It can handle up to 50 lbs of cargo. I also noticed that the handlebar is not too wide, which makes the bike easier to walk through doors and ride through traffic.
I really appreciate how the seat can be raised and lowered, because that supports full leg extension and comfortable pedaling. Some minibikes have a single long saddle that looks cool, but aren’t as comfortable or adjustable to fit different sized riders. Between the long 350mm seat post and sliding saddle rail position and the high-rise handlebar that can be swiveled, you can dial in fit pretty well.
The three color choices look great, and the two lighter ones will be more visible when riding in low light conditions. I love that it comes with a front and rear light that both run off of the rechargeable battery packs! The headlight points where you steer, and has little light tubes on the sides to increase your visual footprint.
With smaller wheels, the hub motor and disc brakes get a mechanical advantage, which makes them more powerful. Blix chose the rim size and tire size perfectly, because the wheels aren’t so small that you end up with a rough feeling (due to high attack angle). They’re pretty comfortable and also off-road capable with the checkerboard pattern.
The smaller wheel size and step-thru frame makes this electric bike very easy to mount and stand over. It’s also lower to the ground in general, which makes the racks easy to load! Note that the bike does have a walk mode (just hold the down arrow) or you can use the trigger throttle to help you push the bike if it’s heavy and loaded up, or if the trail is too steep and unstable.
It’s rare to get a smartphone app with a more affordable electric bike like this, and I was impressed by the features it offers! You can toggle between Class 1 (20mph top speed) and Class 3 (28mph top speed), track battery health, navigate routes with GPS map, get software updates, connect with Strava and other social, and get access to support. You need to create an account, the app connects with Bluetooth.
One of the big features that differentiates the Blix Dubbel from other utility electric bikes is the dual battery option. This allows it to operate at higher levels for longer, or just go farther. I would prefer if the batteries matched exactly and were interchangeable, but as it stands, they are both made by Reention and are partially compatible with other Blix ebikes (the smaller plastic pack behind the seat tube). Both have power buttons to put them into deep sleep storage mode.
I was really impressed by the relatively low price of this product, starting at $2k for the single battery model, or $2.5k for the dual battery option. It comes stock with the steel fenders, rear rack, and integrated lights, but you’ll have to pay more for the front rack, foot pegs, passenger pad, frame bag, and other accessories.
The 8-speed drivetrain is pretty decent. It appears that the sprockets are nickel coated for durability, and the trigger shifters both use your thumb and are easy to reach. The shifter also has an optical gear window readout for quick feedback. While the range is pretty basic at 11-32 tooth, at least it’s not 14-28 tooth like some entry level products.
The hydraulic disc brakes are awesome. You get large 180mm rotors for improved cooling and mechanical advantage over the large heavy wheels and tires. Both brake levers offer adjustable reach, so they can fit small or large hands comfortably, and both levers also have motor inhibitors to safely cut power instantly when you stop.
To activate the lights, hold up on the button pad. To activate walk mode, hold down on the button pad. You can also access the settings menu by holding the power button on the display (the O icon) for a few seconds… but not too long, or the bike will shut off.
Geared hub motors are known for being compact, lightweight, and efficient. I’m familiar with the Shengyi brand used here. This bike felt very satisfying, and I was able to test it out by climbing some of the neighborhood hills and rocky areas, using throttle only (no pedaling). It seems like a solid choice, based on what I’ve observed from competing hub motor powered ebikes.
This ebike really is off-road capable, and the higher volume 3.3″ tires absorb vibration and minimize impact. You can lower the tire pressure down from the recommended 30 PSI to improve float in soft terrain like dry sand, snow, and loam. Consider adding a 27.2mm seat post suspension to further improve comfort, but note that it will raise minimum saddle height by a few inches.
Although it hangs down pretty low, the large double leg kickstand is very sturdy. It makes loading the bike feel safe and steady. This could be a game changer for people who are transporting kids or passengers, but it does require some effort to push the bike forward and off the stand, and then stow it while stabilizing the bike for riding.
I love that Blix has setup their throttle behavior to allow for full power output at any level of assist, even zero! This is handy for getting started from stop signs or traffic signals, catching up with friends, or focusing on balance vs. pedaling when transporting kids and other cargo. The trigger throttle offers variable power output, so you can be gentle by only pressing part way for a smooth start. When using the throttle from standstill, be careful not to run over your own feet or get toes caught under the kickstand that hangs down.
Updated battery pack design! Blix is using very high quality Panasonic cells and spacing them apart in the casing for improved air flow and durability. The 48 volt system provides efficiency and also increases the potential power output. This combines with the high power 750 watt hub motor can produce up to 90 newton meters of torque, and the hub motor gets a mechanical advantage since it’s spoked into a smaller diameter wheel.
Note the color matched IP66 rated Julet Mini cables that send electrical signals from the display, button pad, and throttle to the battery, controller, and motor. These are water resistant and easy to reach and connect if something comes unplugged or needs replacement. Same setup for the lights. Good external cable routing and plastic wrap protection as well as internal routing once they enter the frame.
Blix is using a high resolution cadence sensor with 12 magnets, so pedal assist feels very responsive and natural. The sensor is compact and appears to be well sealed against water and dust.
A sturdy aluminum alloy guide on the chainring helps keep the chain from falling off track, whether you’re riding on rough terrain, transporting, or servicing the bike. It also acts as a short chain cover to keep pants and dress ends from getting dirty and snagged. It’s especially relevant on a off-road capable model like the Ultra, because it protects the chainring teeth and the controllers, which are mounted at the bottom bracket.
I love that both battery packs have their ports relatively high up, and on the right side of the frame. They are easy to reach, and well protected in these positions (not low where dust and water could get to them).
Blix has been in business since 2014, I’ve reviewed a bunch of their products and met the founder on many occasions. They seem to offer great customer support, especially for the low price point.
I appreciate the one year comprehensive warranty that Blix offers, along with their optional $160 one-year extension so you can basically have a two year warranty that covers all sorts of things. That’s good peace of mind when you’re buying direct vs. in a local shop.

Cons:

There’s no suspension, but I think it was a decent decision. The wider tires offer some comfort, and you can lower the pressure a bit for even more. Consider swapping the rigid seat post for a suspension seatpost to smooth out the ride, but note that it will raise the minimum saddle height by a few inches.
The bike is pretty heavy at 70 lbs, and it gets even heavier with racks, bags, and the optional second battery pack. You could easily top 80 lbs and get over 90 lbs with accessories. Consider taking the batteries off when lifting and transporting the bike. Also, store them in a cool dry location and maintain 50%+ when not using for extended periods to maximize their lifespan.
The fork and fenders are both steel, which adds some weight but tends to be very sturdy. Another trade-off here is that steel will rust if the paint is scratched over time. Consider using touch up paint, or car paints if scratched.
Since the tire size is kind of unique, 20″ x 3.3″ they may require longer wait times to replace. You might also need special inner tubes, and that could add some cost and hassle over time. I’ve seen some other ebikes with similar tires, including the Rad Power Bikes RadRunner.
The frame only comes in one size, which I would consider medium. The geometry is fairly upright, the stem is very short, and you can rotate the handlebar forward or back and slide the saddle forward and back to change reach. I like that it has a high rise BMX handlebar!
I love the integrated headlight with little side light bars (even though it can be covered by the optional front rack), and appreciate the optional rear light (even though it just has one LED and can be blocked by the rack tubing a bit from the top and sides), but I do wish that there was a USB port somewhere near the display for charging your phone on the go. This would be handy for using the optional smartphone app for GPS, especially since the optional dual bike batteries offer so much juice!
The battery charger is pretty basic, offering 2 amp output. This means it won’t charge as quickly as a 3 or 4 amp but is also smaller and lighter. I believe that you have to charge each battery independently vs. both at once using a single port on the bike… So it takes longer and requires a step half way to keep the charge going. At least you can take both packs off to store in a cool, dry location, and charge off the bike too without need for any dongles or other adapters. They both use the same charger.
Each battery connects to the frame and then locks using a unique key. This means that you’ll need both keys in order to take both packs off. I love it when the keys match, so you won’t have to carry as much and clutter up your keychain, but that’s more expensive. As it stands, the two keys for the Blix Ultra are very different from each other with the downtube lock key being larger and inset vs. the seat tube battery key being smaller, lighter, and more normal looking.
I believe that the controller systems are mounted externally at the bottom bracket, with their wires a bit exposed. This may subject them to water, mud, and dust vs. being internally mounted… but they are also easier to access and replace in this position. The large 48 tooth chainring with alloy guide helps to protect the area from rock and log strikes on the trail.
The double-leg kickstand is very heavy, but requires some effort to deploy and stow… it also hangs down pretty far, past the chainring. I noticed it would drag a bit when going up curbs, and even turning sharp.
I noticed some frame flex when riding, due to the heavier rims and large tires. I test rode the bike with the optional rear rack pad and front platform with rack… so it probably won’t flex as much without those accessories. Notice the gusset where the top tube meets the seat tube, and how they added a flat plate for mounting the seat tube battery. Even the boxier downtube increases frame stiffness.
It can be a little tricky to remove the seat tube battery pack because it’s surrounded by a section of frame tubing. This is especially true if the seat is positioned low, you may even need to raise the seat post or take it off completely for easier access. I had success by unlocking the battery, sliding up part way, then tipping it at an angle to come out from the lower portion vs. all the way up through the seat stays.
If you don’t have a dealer nearby and have to receive and unbox the Blix Dubbel yourself, there’s some work and materials to deal with. There aren’t too many steps (attach the pedals and front wheel and straighten the stem), but there’s definitely some extra time required, and packaging to be disposed of or recycled. I was told that they work with some shops to showroom their bikes.
The display panel isn’t removable for protection at public bike racks or from inclement weather, but at least it can be angled to reduce glare while riding. I appreciate the battery charge percentage readout, but the display itself is a bit small and only shows one readout at a time vs. multi view like many larger displays.
Considering how powerful the hub motor is, it would be nice to see a torque arm connected to the rear axle. The frame appears to have a threaded eyelet above the dropout for this purpose, so perhaps you could add one yourself.

Useful Resources:

Observations:

This is a utility bike with almost fat sized tires. They’re 3.3″ wide, and fat starts at 4.0″ wide. You get a lot of the same benefits including stability, lower attack angle, comfort, and improved traction for off-road use. Given that there is no suspension fork here, the tires add a lot of comfort, and you could always add a suspension seat post as well.
Blix is based in Santa Cruz, California and has been operating since 2006. I feel that they offer some of the best value in the industry, keeping prices low but using high quality parts. They offer free shipping in the lower 48 US States, and also sell through dealers. I was really impressed with the price of the Ultra, especially considering that it’s dual-battery capable and has such a custom frame.

Pros:

This electric bike is very capable, and I love how many mounting points it has! You can use the seat tube and downtube bosses for bottles, folding locks, mini pumps, or their frame bag! There are four threaded eyelets on both sections of the frame vs. just two. And, there are even two threaded eyelets on both of the fork arms.
Blix created a custom purpose built frame for the Dubbel, and there’s lots of attention to detail with the internally routed cables, dual battery integration (both kept low and center), the multiple bottle cage mounting points on the downtube and seat tube, and the heavy duty rear rack with 200lb load limit. Another easy to miss improved design is how they routed the motor power cable on the left side of the frame, where it’s more protected from feet if a passenger is stepping onto the bike and resting their feet on the pegs. Note the two positions for mounting the pegs so it fits small and large passengers comfortably.
The carrying capacity is very impressive. It offers up to 270lbs for the captain, up to 200lbs for the rear rack, and up to 50lbs for the optional front tray and basket. That’s way above average, especially for a step-thru frame, and the smaller diameter wheels make it very easy to approach and load with gear, smaller wheels tend to be sturdier as well.
The front rack option is done perfectly, it mounts to the steer tube of the frame instead of the fork or handlebar. This means it will not turn as you steer the bike, it won’t influence steering or dump to the side when you park. It can handle up to 50 lbs of cargo. I also noticed that the handlebar is not too wide, which makes the bike easier to walk through doors and ride through traffic.
I really appreciate how the seat can be raised and lowered, because that supports full leg extension and comfortable pedaling. Some minibikes have a single long saddle that looks cool, but aren’t as comfortable or adjustable to fit different sized riders. Between the long 350mm seat post and sliding saddle rail position and the high-rise handlebar that can be swiveled, you can dial in fit pretty well.
The three color choices look great, and the two lighter ones will be more visible when riding in low light conditions. I love that it comes with a front and rear light that both run off of the rechargeable battery packs! The headlight points where you steer, and has little light tubes on the sides to increase your visual footprint.
With smaller wheels, the hub motor and disc brakes get a mechanical advantage, which makes them more powerful. Blix chose the rim size and tire size perfectly, because the wheels aren’t so small that you end up with a rough feeling (due to high attack angle). They’re pretty comfortable and also off-road capable with the checkerboard pattern.
The smaller wheel size and step-thru frame makes this electric bike very easy to mount and stand over. It’s also lower to the ground in general, which makes the racks easy to load! Note that the bike does have a walk mode (just hold the down arrow) or you can use the trigger throttle to help you push the bike if it’s heavy and loaded up, or if the trail is too steep and unstable.
It’s rare to get a smartphone app with a more affordable electric bike like this, and I was impressed by the features it offers! You can toggle between Class 1 (20mph top speed) and Class 3 (28mph top speed), track battery health, navigate routes with GPS map, get software updates, connect with Strava and other social, and get access to support. You need to create an account, the app connects with Bluetooth.
One of the big features that differentiates the Blix Dubbel from other utility electric bikes is the dual battery option. This allows it to operate at higher levels for longer, or just go farther. I would prefer if the batteries matched exactly and were interchangeable, but as it stands, they are both made by Reention and are partially compatible with other Blix ebikes (the smaller plastic pack behind the seat tube). Both have power buttons to put them into deep sleep storage mode.
I was really impressed by the relatively low price of this product, starting at $2k for the single battery model, or $2.5k for the dual battery option. It comes stock with the steel fenders, rear rack, and integrated lights, but you’ll have to pay more for the front rack, foot pegs, passenger pad, frame bag, and other accessories.
The 8-speed drivetrain is pretty decent. It appears that the sprockets are nickel coated for durability, and the trigger shifters both use your thumb and are easy to reach. The shifter also has an optical gear window readout for quick feedback. While the range is pretty basic at 11-32 tooth, at least it’s not 14-28 tooth like some entry level products.
The hydraulic disc brakes are awesome. You get large 180mm rotors for improved cooling and mechanical advantage over the large heavy wheels and tires. Both brake levers offer adjustable reach, so they can fit small or large hands comfortably, and both levers also have motor inhibitors to safely cut power instantly when you stop.
To activate the lights, hold up on the button pad. To activate walk mode, hold down on the button pad. You can also access the settings menu by holding the power button on the display (the O icon) for a few seconds… but not too long, or the bike will shut off.
Geared hub motors are known for being compact, lightweight, and efficient. I’m familiar with the Shengyi brand used here. This bike felt very satisfying, and I was able to test it out by climbing some of the neighborhood hills and rocky areas, using throttle only (no pedaling). It seems like a solid choice, based on what I’ve observed from competing hub motor powered ebikes.
This ebike really is off-road capable, and the higher volume 3.3″ tires absorb vibration and minimize impact. You can lower the tire pressure down from the recommended 30 PSI to improve float in soft terrain like dry sand, snow, and loam. Consider adding a 27.2mm seat post suspension to further improve comfort, but note that it will raise minimum saddle height by a few inches.
Although it hangs down pretty low, the large double leg kickstand is very sturdy. It makes loading the bike feel safe and steady. This could be a game changer for people who are transporting kids or passengers, but it does require some effort to push the bike forward and off the stand, and then stow it while stabilizing the bike for riding.
I love that Blix has setup their throttle behavior to allow for full power output at any level of assist, even zero! This is handy for getting started from stop signs or traffic signals, catching up with friends, or focusing on balance vs. pedaling when transporting kids and other cargo. The trigger throttle offers variable power output, so you can be gentle by only pressing part way for a smooth start. When using the throttle from standstill, be careful not to run over your own feet or get toes caught under the kickstand that hangs down.
Updated battery pack design! Blix is using very high quality Panasonic cells and spacing them apart in the casing for improved air flow and durability. The 48 volt system provides efficiency and also increases the potential power output. This combines with the high power 750 watt hub motor can produce up to 90 newton meters of torque, and the hub motor gets a mechanical advantage since it’s spoked into a smaller diameter wheel.
Note the color matched IP66 rated Julet Mini cables that send electrical signals from the display, button pad, and throttle to the battery, controller, and motor. These are water resistant and easy to reach and connect if something comes unplugged or needs replacement. Same setup for the lights. Good external cable routing and plastic wrap protection as well as internal routing once they enter the frame.
Blix is using a high resolution cadence sensor with 12 magnets, so pedal assist feels very responsive and natural. The sensor is compact and appears to be well sealed against water and dust.
A sturdy aluminum alloy guide on the chainring helps keep the chain from falling off track, whether you’re riding on rough terrain, transporting, or servicing the bike. It also acts as a short chain cover to keep pants and dress ends from getting dirty and snagged. It’s especially relevant on a off-road capable model like the Ultra, because it protects the chainring teeth and the controllers, which are mounted at the bottom bracket.
I love that both battery packs have their ports relatively high up, and on the right side of the frame. They are easy to reach, and well protected in these positions (not low where dust and water could get to them).
Blix has been in business since 2014, I’ve reviewed a bunch of their products and met the founder on many occasions. They seem to offer great customer support, especially for the low price point.
I appreciate the one year comprehensive warranty that Blix offers, along with their optional $160 one-year extension so you can basically have a two year warranty that covers all sorts of things. That’s good peace of mind when you’re buying direct vs. in a local shop.

Cons:

There’s no suspension, but I think it was a decent decision. The wider tires offer some comfort, and you can lower the pressure a bit for even more. Consider swapping the rigid seat post for a suspension seatpost to smooth out the ride, but note that it will raise the minimum saddle height by a few inches.
The bike is pretty heavy at 70 lbs, and it gets even heavier with racks, bags, and the optional second battery pack. You could easily top 80 lbs and get over 90 lbs with accessories. Consider taking the batteries off when lifting and transporting the bike. Also, store them in a cool dry location and maintain 50%+ when not using for extended periods to maximize their lifespan.
The fork and fenders are both steel, which adds some weight but tends to be very sturdy. Another trade-off here is that steel will rust if the paint is scratched over time. Consider using touch up paint, or car paints if scratched.
Since the tire size is kind of unique, 20″ x 3.3″ they may require longer wait times to replace. You might also need special inner tubes, and that could add some cost and hassle over time. I’ve seen some other ebikes with similar tires, including the Rad Power Bikes RadRunner.
The frame only comes in one size, which I would consider medium. The geometry is fairly upright, the stem is very short, and you can rotate the handlebar forward or back and slide the saddle forward and back to change reach. I like that it has a high rise BMX handlebar!
I love the integrated headlight with little side light bars (even though it can be covered by the optional front rack), and appreciate the optional rear light (even though it just has one LED and can be blocked by the rack tubing a bit from the top and sides), but I do wish that there was a USB port somewhere near the display for charging your phone on the go. This would be handy for using the optional smartphone app for GPS, especially since the optional dual bike batteries offer so much juice!
The battery charger is pretty basic, offering 2 amp output. This means it won’t charge as quickly as a 3 or 4 amp but is also smaller and lighter. I believe that you have to charge each battery independently vs. both at once using a single port on the bike… So it takes longer and requires a step half way to keep the charge going. At least you can take both packs off to store in a cool, dry location, and charge off the bike too without need for any dongles or other adapters. They both use the same charger.
Each battery connects to the frame and then locks using a unique key. This means that you’ll need both keys in order to take both packs off. I love it when the keys match, so you won’t have to carry as much and clutter up your keychain, but that’s more expensive. As it stands, the two keys for the Blix Ultra are very different from each other with the downtube lock key being larger and inset vs. the seat tube battery key being smaller, lighter, and more normal looking.
I believe that the controller systems are mounted externally at the bottom bracket, with their wires a bit exposed. This may subject them to water, mud, and dust vs. being internally mounted… but they are also easier to access and replace in this position. The large 48 tooth chainring with alloy guide helps to protect the area from rock and log strikes on the trail.
The double-leg kickstand is very heavy, but requires some effort to deploy and stow… it also hangs down pretty far, past the chainring. I noticed it would drag a bit when going up curbs, and even turning sharp.
I noticed some frame flex when riding, due to the heavier rims and large tires. I test rode the bike with the optional rear rack pad and front platform with rack… so it probably won’t flex as much without those accessories. Notice the gusset where the top tube meets the seat tube, and how they added a flat plate for mounting the seat tube battery. Even the boxier downtube increases frame stiffness.
It can be a little tricky to remove the seat tube battery pack because it’s surrounded by a section of frame tubing. This is especially true if the seat is positioned low, you may even need to raise the seat post or take it off completely for easier access. I had success by unlocking the battery, sliding up part way, then tipping it at an angle to come out from the lower portion vs. all the way up through the seat stays.
If you don’t have a dealer nearby and have to receive and unbox the Blix Dubbel yourself, there’s some work and materials to deal with. There aren’t too many steps (attach the pedals and front wheel and straighten the stem), but there’s definitely some extra time required, and packaging to be disposed of or recycled. I was told that they work with some shops to showroom their bikes.
The display panel isn’t removable for protection at public bike racks or from inclement weather, but at least it can be angled to reduce glare while riding. I appreciate the battery charge percentage readout, but the display itself is a bit small and only shows one readout at a time vs. multi view like many larger displays.
Considering how powerful the hub motor is, it would be nice to see a torque arm connected to the rear axle. The frame appears to have a threaded eyelet above the dropout for this purpose, so perhaps you could add one yourself.