Blix Packa Review

Blix Packa Electric Bike Review
Blix Packa
Blix Packa Shengyi Gearless Hub Motor 500 750 To Watt
Blix Packa Standard Downtube Battery Pack 48v 10 5 Ah
Blix Packa King Meter Large Lcd Display Trigger Throttle
Blix Packa Velo Stitched Ergonomic Grips Faux Leather
Blix Packa Badge And Front Rack Basket Mount 24 Tires
Blix Packa Integrated Spanninga Headlight Custom Wide Fenders
Blix Packa Heavy Duty Double Leg Kickstand
Blix Packa Heavy Duty Rear Rack With Two Child Seat Windows
Blix Packa Rear Rack With Spanninga Brake Light
Blix Packa Running Boards Bamboo Decks 7 Speed Shimano Acera
Blix Packa Optional Secondary Battery Pack 48v 14ah
Blix Packa 3 Amp Ebike Charger With Toolkit And Bag
Blix Packa Optional Rack And Basket Accessories
Blix Packa Front Basket With Drink Holder
Blix Packa Optional Bag And Pannier Accessories
Blix Packa Midtail Mid Step Electric Blue
Blix Packa Electric Bike Review
Blix Packa
Blix Packa Shengyi Gearless Hub Motor 500 750 To Watt
Blix Packa Standard Downtube Battery Pack 48v 10 5 Ah
Blix Packa King Meter Large Lcd Display Trigger Throttle
Blix Packa Velo Stitched Ergonomic Grips Faux Leather
Blix Packa Badge And Front Rack Basket Mount 24 Tires
Blix Packa Integrated Spanninga Headlight Custom Wide Fenders
Blix Packa Heavy Duty Double Leg Kickstand
Blix Packa Heavy Duty Rear Rack With Two Child Seat Windows
Blix Packa Rear Rack With Spanninga Brake Light
Blix Packa Running Boards Bamboo Decks 7 Speed Shimano Acera
Blix Packa Optional Secondary Battery Pack 48v 14ah
Blix Packa 3 Amp Ebike Charger With Toolkit And Bag
Blix Packa Optional Rack And Basket Accessories
Blix Packa Front Basket With Drink Holder
Blix Packa Optional Bag And Pannier Accessories
Blix Packa Midtail Mid Step Electric Blue

Summary

  • A family-friendly midtail electric cargo bike with a broad range of custom rack and bag accessories to handle work gear, additional passengers (infants, toddlers, or even adults), 400lb maximum weight capacity
  • Available in two beautiful colors, glossy blue or white, premium integrated lights with multi-LED brake-activated rear light, large stable tires with reflective sidewalls and puncture protection
  • Unique 24-inch wheel size lowers frame height and makes the bike easier to approach, load, and stand over, mid-step frame is approachable but not as stiff as a diamond so there is some frame flex and possibility of speed wobble
  • Optional second battery pack extends range, pedal assist with throttle mode gives you multiple ways to ride and help getting started from standstill, adjustable angle stem, steel fork, swept back handlebar, and padded saddle all add comfort, Mechanical disc brakes may require more hand strength but help to keep the price lower and may be easier to adjust, integrated USB charging port on display for accessories

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

Blix

Model:

Packa

Price:

$1,599 ($1,899 for Dual Battery)

Body Position:

Upright

Suggested Use:

Neighborhood, Urban, Cruising, Commuting, Cargo

Electric Bike Class:

Throttle on Demand (Class 2)
Learn more about Ebike classes

Warranty:

2 Year Comprehensive, 3 Year Frame

Availability:

United States, Canada

Model Year:

2019

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

72 lbs (32.65 kg)

Battery Weight:

6 lbs (2.72 kg) (7lb Optional Second Battery Pack)

Motor Weight:

10 lbs (4.53 kg)

Frame Material:

6061 Aluminum Alloy

Frame Sizes:

16.5 in (41.91 cm)

Geometry Measurements:

16.5" Seat Tube Length, 22.5" Reach, 19.25" Stand Over Height, 31.25" Minimum Saddle Height, 26.5" Width, 81" Length

Frame Types:

Mid-Step

Frame Colors:

Glossy Electric Blue, Glossy Clean White

Frame Fork Details:

Rigid Steel, 100mm Hub Spacing, 9mm Axle with Quick Release Skewer

Frame Rear Details:

135mm Hub Spacing, 12mm Threaded Keyed Axle with 9mm Flats with 15mm Nuts

Attachment Points:

Fender Bosses, Front Rack Bosses, Rear Rack Bosses, Bottle Cage Bosses

Gearing Details:

7 Speed 1x7 Shimano Acera Derailleur, Shimano CS-HG200-7 Cassette 11-32 Tooth

Shifter Details:

Shimano RevoShift Grip Half-Grip Shifter on Right

Cranks:

Prowheel Forge Alloy, 170mm Length, Square Tapered Axle, 48 Tooth Chainring with Alloy Guide

Pedals:

Wellgo C316DU Plastic Platform with Rubber Tread

Headset:

NECO, Threadless, Internal Cups, Straight 1-1/8"

Stem:

Promax, Aluminum Alloy, Tool-Free Adjustable Angle, 100mm Length, 70mm Base Height, Four 10mm Spacers, 25.4mm Clamp Diameter Diameter

Handlebar:

Promax, Aluminum Alloy, Cruiser Mid-Rise, Swept-Back, 10mm Rise, 640mm Length

Brake Details:

Tektro MD-M300 Mechanical Disc with 180mm Rotors, Four-Finger Tektro Levers with Rubberized Edges and Integrated Bell on Left and Motor Inhibitor Switches with Rear Light Activation

Grips:

Velo, Faux Leather, Stitched, Ergonomic

Saddle:

Velo Comfort Padded with Elastomer Bumpers

Seat Post:

Aluminum Alloy, Single Bolt Seat Clamp

Seat Post Length:

350 mm

Seat Post Diameter:

31.6 mm

Rims:

Star Circle, Aluminum Alloy, Double Wall, 36 Hole, 32mm Outer Width

Spokes:

Stainless Steel, 12 Gauge, Black with Nipples

Tire Brand:

CST C1809, 24" x 2.4" (61-507)

Wheel Sizes:

27.5 in (69.85cm)

Tire Details:

35 to 65 PSI, 2.5 to 4.5 BAR, Reflective Sidewall Stripes, Puncture Protection

Tube Details:

Schrader Valve

Accessories:

Deflopilator Stabilizing Spring, Bamboo Running Boards, Plastic Fenders with Mud Flaps (74mm Width), Extra-Strong Double Leg Kickstand, Spanninga Axendo Integrated Headlight (40 Lux), Spanninga Flexio Integrated Rear Light (27 Small LED, 2 Bright LED for Braking), Optional Additional Charger $89, Optional Second Battery Pack 48v 14ah, Optional Alloy Front Rack, Optional Alloy Small Basket with Integrated Cup Holder, Optional Alloy Large Basket with Bamboo Deck, Optional Alloy Platform, Optional Thule Yepp! Maxi EasyFit Child Seats, Optional Alloy Child Rack, Optional Seat Pads, Optional Bamboo Rear Deck, Optional Custom Designed Bags (Rack Compatible), Optional ABUS Front Wheel Frame Lock

Other:

Locking Removable Semi-Integrated Color-Matched Downtube Mounted Battery Pack, Optional Second Battery Pack Mounted Behind Seat Tube, 1.3lb 3 Amp Charger, 400lb Total Max Weight, 270lb Max Rider Weight, 150lb Rear Rack Max Weight, 50lb Front Rack Max Weight

Electronic Details

Motor Brand:

Shengyi

Motor Type:

Rear-Mounted Gearless Direct Drive Hub
Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

500 watts

Motor Peak Output:

750 watts

Motor Torque:

40 Newton meters

Battery Brand:

Samsung

Battery Voltage:

48 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

10.5 ah (Optional Second 14ah Pack)

Battery Watt Hours:

504 wh (Optional 1176wh Total with Second Pack)

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-ion

Charge Time:

4.5 hours

Estimated Min Range:

25 miles (40 km)

Estimated Max Range:

75 miles (121 km)

Display Type:

King-Meter, Fixed, Adjustable Angle, Backlit, 3.75" Monochrome LCD

Readouts:

Charge Level (5 Bars, Battery b1, Battery b2), Current Speed, Avg Speed, Max Speed, Assist Level (0-5), Light Icon, Odometer, Trip A, Trip B

Display Accessories:

Independent Control Pad on Left, Buttons: Up, Down, M, (Hold Up for Lights, Hold Down for Walk Mode, Hold Up and Down for Settings)

Drive Mode:

Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist, Trigger Throttle (Sealed 12 Magnet Sensor)

Top Speed:

20 mph (32 kph)


Written Review

To run the forums, host the website, and travel, I charge a universal service fee for my reviews. This review was sponsored by Blix Bikes. My goal is to be transparent and unbiased, this video and written review are not meant to be an endorsement of Blix products.

[NOTICE: The Blix Packa is scheduled to launch on Indiegogo on March 26th, they requested that I publish this review early and have posted more information on their official website in the meantime.] The Packa is a mid-tail cargo electric bike offering lots of utility, value, and good looks. It’s unique in many ways, but fits in line with a growing number of approachable cargo models that allow you to move more stuff or even transport a child or friend. The Packa has an extended rear rack that is reinforced with beautifully positioned Aluminum alloy bars to handle up to 150lbs. There are two Yepp! windows on top of the rear rack, so you can fit the Maxi Easyfit (as shown in the video). The company also sells seat pads for adult passengers or a surround-bar for kids. An optional front rack or basket can handle 50lbs more, and the total load capacity for the bike is 400lbs. Included in the $1,599 base price are alloy running boards that could act as foot platforms or bag supports, and they incorporate beautiful bamboo deck vs. being empty and open. For just a bit more at $1,899, you get the second battery upgrade for extended range. I love that the rear rack has standard gauge pannier hangers, so you could recycle existing industry-standard gear, and was very impressed with the 27-LED tail light that goes bright whenever the brakes are pulled! Yes, the bike includes integrated lights, extra wide fenders, and even reflective tires with puncture protection built in. If you want to match the bamboo runnign boards, Blix sells matching deck accessory for the top of the rack as well.

The video review for this product is pretty long and thorough because the founder, Pontus Malmberg, met me with a van full of accessories to explain and demo. One thing that was not shown is the wooden deck mentioned just above. Anyway, I’ve listed most of them in the details section above but was not given pricing information because the bike is going to be crowd funded on Indiegogo in March, 2019 and there could be adjustments. Normally, I avoid crowd funded products because they are subject to change. In this case, I decided to go ahead because Blix has been in business since 2014 and sells through a growing network of shops in North America. I was told that they will be shipping the Packa direct as well as providing it to shops, and interest from shops has been high so far. Personally, I prefer the assembly help and ongoing support of shops when it’s available, so I like the dual-channel distribution model here. Blix offers a one year comprehensive warranty and is positioned as a stylish mid-level brand in my mind; striving for reasonable prices while using higher-end parts. The compromises that I feel were made on the Packa to hit the lower price with this bike are the use of a gearless hub motor vs. a more efficient mid-drive (though this allows for throttle operation, which is great if you’ve got a heavily loaded bike), and mechanical disc brakes vs. hydraulic. Many people rationalize mechanical brakes because they’re easy to service and might not require the help of a shop. The downside, however, is increased hand effort and imbalance between front brake and rear brake because of the cable length. All things considered, the bike is special because it’s so custom and well thought out. Notice the color-matching on the mid-frame battery pack, the option of purchasing a secondary battery for longer rides (almost unheard of with a value-priced ebike), Blix included a deflopilator front wheel stabilizing device, upgraded reflective tires with puncture protection, and they’re offering two color choices! The kickstand is sturdy and reliable, they custom-made the frame and kickstand mounting point so it wouldn’t block the crank arms when pedaling backwards, servicing the drivetrain when the bike is parked. While the chain-line is long and sometimes noisy (on rough terrain as it bounces into the chain stay), Blix did include an alloy guide to keep the chain from dropping off the chainring, and they upgraded the cadence sensor to a higher resolution 12-magnet sealed sensor for increased reliability. The derailleur is an entry/mid-level part, and good enough for this price range… I’m glad they went with a larger 11 to 32 tooth cassette vs. 14 to 28 tooth on many others I’ve seen. I’m going to dig in to the motor, battery, and display unit below, before wrapping things up and sharing some pros/cons at the very end :)

Driving this ebike is a a Shengyi gearless hub motor that weighs about 10lbs and is spoked into a sturdy 24-inch double-wall rim with extra-thick 12 gauge spokes. I’ve seen this motor brand before, on competing products from Rad Power Bikes, and heard that it’s very reliable from customers who have purchased and used it regularly for multiple years ongoing. Gearless motors need to be larger, and are usually heavier than geared, because they produce power through electromagnetic staters and rare earth magnets pushing against each other. This, compared with a planetary geared motor that uses a faster-spinning motor that is geared down for torque. With a gearless motor, the further out those magnets are from the center, the more torque power is generated. The advantage to this type of motor is that you don’t have plastic gears rubbing against each other to produce power, making it quiet and more durable over the long run. The magnets and staters don’t actually touch, so propulsion is smooth and quiet. However, when the motor is finished pushing, it also drags a bit because there is no freewheel mechanism. Some ebike companies that use gearless direct drive motors has designed their controller systems to recapture some of this magnetic drag as electricity for regeneration. That is not the case with Blix, and I don’t see this as a major drawback because it simplifies the controller and keeps it cooler. My understanding is that the electricity recaptured through regen on ebikes is only a small percentage, and the optional second battery option with the Packa is going to be much, much, more effective for extending range. Offering between 500 and 750 watts of power output and up to 40 newton meters of torque, the motor is powerful and effective in most situations. One challenging scenario however, is starting from standstill while climbing. Gearless motors just don’t generate as much torque at standstill… so try to get some momentum going in, if you can. In short, this motor is quiet, tough, and very capable of transporting heavy loads, especially with the 11 to 32 tooth cassette. You might have to pedal along when ascending steep hills, but it should do fine on small and medium hills without too much input, as long as you’ve got a little momentum going in.

Powering the bike, it’s backlit LCD display, and two integrated LED Lights is a 48 volt 10.5 amp hour Lithium-ion battery pack. The case is a fairly standard design that I’ve seen on other ebikes, but never color-matched like this. It seats in from the left side of the frame and comes in at an angle. This allowed Blix to lower the top tube, providing a lower stand-over height and easier mounting/stabilizing of the bike. The capacity of this pack is pretty standard at roughly 500 watt hours, and should be enough for 20+ mile rides, even if you’re relying heavily on the throttle or using a higher level of assist. For those who want to go further, or plan on carrying lots of cargo over varied terrain, Blix offers a secondary pack rated at 48 volt 14 amp hours! When combined, this ebike has over 1 kilowatt-hour of juice, to offer. Only the default downtube battery has a built-in USB charging port, but they both use the same three amp charger. One of the compromises the company made to lower the cost of this second battery and the controller that draws from both, is that each pack must be physically plugged in separately. Some of the really fancy new systems from Bosch and Shimano are able to charge two packs at once, requiring less attention and handling by the rider. Also, both packs on the Blix Packa must be unlocked separately, using unique keys. If you opt for their optional front wheel frame lock, there will be a third key in use… So, there’s extra time and clutter with the Packa, but at $1,599, it’s priced at half of most other high-end multi-battery products on the market right now. One very cool feature about the dual-battery setup is that the packs drain fairly evenly when riding. The onboard control system is smart enough to switch back and fort when the difference is greater than 5%. This reduces the cycle count of any given pack and reduces the chance that you’ll hit zero (which can strain the cells). To extend the usable life of most Lithium-ion batteries, it’s best to store them in a cool, dry location. Extreme heat can damage them, and cold will limit their range. I’ve also heard that if you know you won’t be riding with a pack for a month or more, it’s great to keep it about half full or full but avoid letting it drain down all the way. All things considered, I feel that the positioning of both batteries is fairly good, low and center on the bike, protected by the frame tubing from scratches and bumps at racks or tips.

Operating the Packa is fairly straightforward, but there are a couple of hidden features built into the LCD computer display that I’d like to share with you. First of all, the LCD screen is fairly large and can be swiveled to adjust for glare, but it’s not removable. This means that it could take some weather wear and scratches over time and bike racks. It’s very thin, large enough to read easily from a distance, and incorporates a second USB charging port (in addition to the one on the battery pack) which could maintain a smartphone or other portable electronic device. That is, unless your device requires at least an amp of power (as many iOS devices do). I believe that both USB ports on this bike deliver 5 volts 500 milliamps. To activate the display, just press and hold the M button on the base of the control ring which is mounted near the left grip. The LCD blinks to life quickly and shows several industry-standard readouts. I was a little disappointed to discover that the battery capacity meter (which shows 10 bars) is really only a five bar meter. That’s pretty standard for cheaper displays, with each bar representing a 20% drop. Since there’s no battery percentage readout or range estimator built in, you won’t get as much precise feedback about charging. It might not be a big issue if you’ve opted for the second pack, but this ebike is definitely heavier than average at 72+lbs and could be a struggle to ride home with a heavy load, unpowered. For this reason, I’d recommend bringing the charger as a backup when going for longer rides. It would fit easily into one of the optional pannier bags that Blix sells. So, the display boots up into assist level one, and the throttle is active at this level. It’s not going to deliver as much power as levels 2-5, which was disappointing to me. The trigger throttle offers variable power output as you press further, and yet, it’s capped by the level of assist in use. This means that you cannot use the trigger throttle to briefly add power for climbing or catching up with a friend. Instead, you’ll have to click the up arrow a couple of times and then use the throttle, then click back down to a lower level of assist to match your original setting. Some riders might prefer to always ride with assist level 5, but then the battery will run down faster and the starts aren’t as smooth… it’s more zippy in this mode. Finally, the lowest level of assist is zero, which basically supplies no power in assist or throttle mode. Zero level allows you to read the display for feedback about your speed, battery level, and other trip stats (as with the other levels of assist) while running the lights. It’s a good option if you are running low on battery but still want to remain visible while pedaling manually. In order to activate the bikes integrated lights, hold up on the button pad for a few seconds. Walk mode can be activated by holding down ongoing, and you can get into the settings menu to change units (mph to km/h) or lower the top speed by holding the up and down arrows simultaneously.

I was surprised and delighted to hear about and then experience the new Blix Packa electric bicycle. It’s a beautiful mid-tail cargo electric bike with an approachable frame. While the mid-step design does flex a bit, increasingly as the rear rack is loaded, it feels very comfortable and steady to mount. Blix opted for fairly high-volume 24″ tires that worked well when I took the bike off-road for a stretch during the video review ride test. Even without a suspension fork or suspension seat post, the bike felt comfortable because of the steel fork, taller adjustable stem, swept-back handlebar, and the padded Velo saddle. You could swap the rigid seat post out for an affordable 31.6mm suspension seat post and reduce back, neck, and arm fatigue, but it’s probably not necessary if you’re on smooth neighborhood streets. I’m hoping that Blix introduces a sticker slap guard with their final build, since the longer chain can bounce around to create noise and even chip the paint over time. I was told that the front fender will have a metal reinforcement support to reduce light vibration and fender noise. I want to call out and compliment the alloy chainring guide, that will protect your pants/dress ends and reduce chain drops. As always, I welcome your comments below, especially as the bike evolves with the crowdfunding campaign and eventual delivery. I’ve covered several other Blix models here and have created a special section in the EBR forums for Blix, where you can connect with other owners to share pictures and direct feedback :)

Pros:

  • Excellent value here, this mid-tail cargo platform comes with extra wide fenders, integrated lights, dealer distribution (so you don’t have to assemble it yourself if you can find a local dealer), and the option of expanding the battery for long-range use for under $2k which is very impressive to me
  • Beautiful custom frame design, the tubing matches and lines up perfectly, I love that it’s available in two frame colors and the cover of the main battery is paint-matched!
  • The prototype shown in the pictures and video did not have bottle cage bosses, but I’m told that the final build will have them on the top tube
  • Lots of great accessories for hauling cargo or additional passengers (infants, kids, and adults), Blix designed many of the bags to work in conjunction with the bolt-on cargo racks so you can maximize utility
  • With two 24″ wheels, tubes, and tires on the Packa, you don’t need as many different sized replacement parts, Blix chose this size because it keeps the frame low, is sturdier than 26″ or 28″ (especially with the 12 gauge extra-thick spokes), but is more comfortable and stable than super small 20″
  • Mounting and loading the bike is very easy thanks to the giant double-leg kickstand and stabilizing “deflopilator” spring at the front fork
  • The drivetrain good for around town riding with a wider 11 to 32 tooth cassette (vs. 12-28) and an alloy chainring guide (to reduce chain drops), the chain is also rust-resistant
  • Safety is important, especially if you’ve got passengers along for the ride! so I really appreciate the reflective tires, integrated lights, extra-bright 27-LED rear light with brake bright activation, and the white frame option (which will stand out more in low lighting situations)
  • It’s neat that Blix includes running board with bamboo decks, these offer support for pannier bags or a place for a passenger to put their feet… some companies charge extra for this feature or don’t include a wood insert
  • I love that the rear rack includes a standard gauge tube for clipping-on aftermarket pannier bags, Blix has a great range of bag options that are guaranteed to work and look pretty good, but the industry standard tubing is a nice “open source” touch that adds utility and value if you already own gear
  • The bike felt very comfortable to me, even without suspension, because of the higher volume 2.4″ tires, upright stem, swept back handlebar, and steel fork (which dampens vibration)
  • Lots of little details are dialed in with this frame including internally routed cables, threaded water-sealed electrical cabling, sturdy 31.6mm seat post diameter, front wheel frame lock mounting option, and fender-mounted headlight… I was told that the final design will have a metal insert to increase fender strength and reduce headlight bounce
  • The LCD display panel is fairly large, I appreciate the half-grip twist shifter because it’s intuitive to use (it has a little clear window showing the chosen gear), the stem can be adjusted without tools so it’s easy to switch riders, and Blix opted for a high power 48 volt electrical system vs. 36 volt and has a powerful external 22 amp motor controller that reduces the cost of replacement batteries and also reduces battery/controller heat
  • It’s neat that the LCD display and battery pack have 5 volt 500mA USB charging ports built-in, this could be useful for charging portable electronics, additional lights, or even for picnic situations where you remove the main battery and bring it with you.
  • Blix opted for a slightly faster 3 amp battery charger vs. 2 amp with many competing products, this is great for such a high capacity two-battery setup… but you will have to plug the charger in separately to each pack vs. a really fancy simultaneously-charging setup I’ve seen on some Bosch and Shimano drive systems
  • Both brake levers have motor inhibitors built in, so they instantly cut power to the drive system whenever you need to stop, it’s especially important with a cadence sensing ebike vs. torque sensing, and the sensor also activates the tail light so you’ll be more visible when slowing down
  • I like how the tail light has angled sides so you’ll stand out from more directions, the headlight does not have this… it just shines out the front, but it does point where you steer and won’t be blocked by the optional front rack or basket accessories
  • Gearless hub motors are known for being super reliable and quiet, I didn’t really hear it much during the ride test and have actually experienced the Shengyi motor on competing products from Rad Power Bikes with good success over year of use
  • The 12-magnet cadence sensor is a bit more responsive than the 5, 6, and 8-magnet sensors I see on some other ebikes, I like how it’s sealed in plastic to keep water and dust out
  • By choosing a trigger throttle vs. a twist throttle, Blix made the bike less prone to accidental activation, it’s still a good idea to turn it off before mounting and dismounting since it’s automatically active in assist level 1 (which is the default powerup mode)
  • It’s nice to have a trigger throttle to help getting started from stop signs, especially with a cadence sensor vs. multi-sensor or torque sensor… I’m saying this as someone with sensitive knees, once you get the bike started, all you have to do is move the cranks for pedal assist to kick in, you don’t have to pedal hard since it only senses motion
  • Blix has been in business since 2014, I’ve reviewed a bunch of their products and met the founder, they seem to offer great customer support and really focus on building good relationships with local dealers who can assemble properly support the product with its two year warranty, I trust this product more than other crowd-funding stuff because of the longstanding Blix reputation and dealer network

Cons:

  • Most electric cargo bikes weigh more because the frames require additional material for strength, the Blix Packa uses a heavier Gearless hub motor and with the optional second battery pack it does start to weigh a lot, I did experience some frame flex and speed wobble when the rear rack had bags and a child seat added (as is the case with most mid-step cargo ebikes)
  • The trigger throttle does not work in pedal assist level zero and is actually power-limited based on the assist level chosen, I prefer to have the throttle offering full power at all levels of assist because it helps during brief climbs or catching up to a friend, requiring less button presses to raise power
  • Large 180mm disc brakes provide good cooling benefits and a mechanical advantage over the 24″ wheels, but mechanical requires more hand effort and adjustment over time compared with hydraulic… which would have raised the bike price
  • Since this ebike is launching on crowd funding platform Indiegogo in mid March, 2019, some things may change with the final product and you’ll probably have to wait to receive it, which could cut into the Spring and Summer months for riding
  • It’s really neat to have an secondary battery option and front wheel frame lock option but each unit will utilize a different key, which means lots of clutter in your pocket or purse and more time spent trying to figure out which key goes to which lock
  • The long chain and mid-level derailleur results in some bounces around, producing some noise and possibly marring the frame, consider using some box tape to protect the right chain stay, I’d love it if Blix included a slap guard with their final product but am not sure if that will be the case
  • Gearless direct drive hub motors tend to weigh more, produce less torque from standstill, and cause some magnetic drag when coasting, Blix is not recapturing energy with any sort of regenerative braking on this setup
  • Minor complaint, the frame only comes in one size… but the mid-step design is fairly easy to approach and the adjustable angle stem, swept back handlebar, and adjustable seat offer a wide range of fit options
  • If you opt for the secondary battery pack and have your seat positioned low, you might need to raise or even remove it each time you wish to remove the battery pack because of where it’s mounted
  • The charging port for the main battery is directly in the path of the left crank arm, so be careful not to bump the pedals while it’s plugged in or the plug and socket could get damaged
  • The display 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
  • Sometimes, adjustable angle stems can start to wiggle loose and then strip, I’ve experienced this with some cheaper stems and would just keep an eye out this part and keep the bolt tight to avoid issues (the bolt is located under the folding handle on the top portion of the stem)

Resources:

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Blix Aveny Review

  • MSRP: $1,599
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019, 2020

An elegant electric bike with tons of new accessories, upgraded 500 watt motor, powerful and long lasting 48v 14ah battery, disc brakes, thicker tires, can fit a Yepp child seat, and feature complete with lights, rack, fenders, and more. 2” wide tires with reflective sidewalls for increased safety and stability, battery integrated headlight mounted…...

Blix Vika+ Review

  • MSRP: $1,599
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019, 2020

An elegant folding electric bike with tons of new accessories, upgraded 500 watt motor, powerful and long lasting 48v 14ah battery, disc brakes, thicker tires, can fit a Yepp child seat, and new aluminum paint matched fenders. 2” wide tires with reflective sidewalls for increased safety and stability, battery integrated headlight and…...

2018 Blix Sol Review

  • MSRP: $1,599
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A lightweight cruiser with relaxed upright geometry, long sweeping handlebars that dampen vibration, unique 27.5" wheels that lower the attack angle for clearing cracks and absorbing bumps. Matching faux leather saddle, ergonomic grips, and custom Kenda tires, two color options with classy…...

2018 Blix Vika+ Review

  • MSRP: $1,649
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

An elegant folding electric bike available in three classic colors (green, black, cream) with matching silver accents all across the frame including the stem, handlebar, chainring, rear rack, seat post, and sturdy alloy pedals. Safe and durable with plastic fenders from SKS that have flexible mud-flap ends, puncture resistant…...

Blix Vika Travel Review

  • MSRP: $1,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

One of the most compact folding electric bikes around, only weighs ~40 lbs, uses smaller 16-inch tires and shorter 140 mm crank arms, long seat post and telescoping stem conform to a wide range of riders. Efficient 250 watt planetary geared hub motor gets a mechanical advantage from the smaller wheel…...

2018 Blix Aveny Review

  • MSRP: $1,899
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A classically styled city bike available in smaller step-thru with 26" wheels and larger high-step with 28" wheels, both include beautiful paint-matched plastic fenders and alloy racks. The faux leather saddle and grips match custom Kenda tires and fit seamlessly with four…...

Blix Stockholm Review

  • MSRP: $2,390
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

An efficient, city style commuter bike with tight fenders, a solid rack and premium LED lights from Spanninga that run off the main battery pack, has hydraulic disc brakes and offers throttle and pedal assist modes. Name brand motor from 8Fun with a larger than average battery capacity for increased range,…...

Blix Komfort+ Review

  • MSRP: $1,990
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

A classy step-thru city bike with ergonomic grips, swept back handlebar and sprung saddle for improved comfort, available in two frame sizes for improved fit. Beautiful faux leather touch points, bright silver accents on the rack, pedals and brake levers,…...

2016 Blix Vika+ Review

  • MSRP: $1,650
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

Feature complete folding electric bike (full length fenders, integrated LED lights) with a larger than average battery and two upgrade options for even long range rides. Available in three classy colors (Green, Black and Cream) with beautiful fake leather touch points…...

2015 Blix Vika+ Review

  • MSRP: $1,590
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A folding electric bike with classy accents including matching saddle and stitched ergonomic grips. Upgraded brake levers with comfort edge, easy-mount step-thru frame, locking removable battery pack...

2015 Blix Komfort+ Review

  • MSRP: $1,990
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A beautiful city cruiser available in three colors with easy to mount step-thru frame, comfortable ergonomic grips and matching sprung saddle. Removable battery pack with flip-up saddle for convenient access, integrated LED headlight...


Comments (17) YouTube Comments

Mike
5 years ago

Nice review, and very nice cargo ebike. With so many ebikes being priced in the stratosphere, especially cargo ebikes, its refreshing to see firms like Blix, continue to provide high quality, VERY reliable ebikes at prices the masses (us 99 % ers) can actually justify and afford. Seems like many ebike OEM’s keep forgetting that these are still just ‘bikes’, raising their prices or introducing new models at ever higher prices. It’s just 2 wheels. Get it?

Btw, the two battery packs are incredible. And, functioning brake lights! (wow, never thought I’d see that on a sub $2,000 ebike – should be standard on ALL ebikes)

P.S. you had a slip of the keyboard at one point in your review, and called the Packa a “Vika”. (oops.)

  Reply
Court
5 years ago

Thanks for the typo tip! I’ll fix that ;) yeah, this product is exciting for many reasons. I like the design, lights, and the dual battery setup. It wasn’t something I knew about until Pontus called me and asked about doing a review. When I saw it, I was floored. Very cool and well thought out product here!

  Reply
Alan
5 years ago

Do you think this could be stored on a vertical bike rack? or would that be impractical? Also do you recommend the 2nd battery pack for SF hills? or do you think the standard pack would be enough for a 12 mile round trip commute in SF? Thanks for the review!

  Reply
Shawn Fitzgibbons
4 years ago

Thank you for replying. Yes, your customer support was always very responsive and polite. However, the information they provided was usually incorrect. “The part will be arriving any day in our warehouse!” Two weeks later, “we expect to ship soon!”. Two weeks later: “Our warehouse changed and we expect to ship soon!”. That type of thing.

And yes, replacement parts were shipped to an incorrect address. I noticed shipping error immediately upon receiving the confirmation, and let your staff know. They did not correct the problem, causing me to have to drive way out of my way to pick up the part at the FedEx center. And then it turned out to be the wrong part.

I didn’t contact your company about the battery issue because I got sick of dealing with your company and it wasn’t worth the hassle.

Also, right now, my Packa is back in the bike shop with two broken spokes on the rear wheel, after maybe 50 miles of use on smooth, paved roads. Your staff said, “that’s normal wear and tear.” I commute 400 miles a month on my bike (not the Packa) and have had two broken spokes in about five years of use.

I understood the risks of buying a pre-production bike, and still was fairly shocked at the errors and repeated misstatements about shipping times. I do not recommend people buy via mail order from your company.

  Reply
Jacob Ziemba
4 years ago

Terrible customer service. They fail to deliver on all of their promises and will ship late with long wait times. I firmly recommend staying away from these guys.

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Aww man! That sucks, I’m so sorry to hear that you had a bad experience with Blix. I hope things smooth out and you can enjoy riding :/

  Reply
Pontus
4 years ago

I’m very sorry to hear that you’re not happy with the wait! I just checked our system and your order had a June shipping widow when you placed the order and it did ship out on July 1st, so seems like it was one day late in shipping.

Please reach out directly to our team though if there’s anything we can assist with as of now, very important for me and us that you have a good experience!

Pontus from Blix

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

You’re awesome Pontus, thanks for chiming in to help people :)

Molly Fetters
4 years ago

I bought a Blix Packa in June, it didn’t arrive until September. I understand that many bikes are slow to ship due to Covid, however I still have not received the rear rack cushion… Installation was fairly easy, the front tire however was not easy to install and the hand brakes have continued to be something I have to adjust. Once set up, I wanted the front large basket and rack which I ordered, it came without hardware. They still have not sent my hardware to install the rack, its been 9 days. I also requested information on how to install axel mount hitch for our chariot, which the website says “kid railers featuring an axle-mounted hitch will work” but I have not been provided any information on that and its been a week.

I just mention those items for full disclosure. I do really enjoy riding the bike with my kids, I have a 2 year old and 4 year old. The Thule Nexxt seat was really easy to install so my 2yo sits in there and my 4yo behind me. Its pretty cold where I live so I am hoping to attach the chariot so I can pull them on days when it’s really cold or raining. As for battery life, I have had only one problem where the battery gave out on me. I think I had two bars and went biking with the girls. Sadly, it died when I was going up hill! So now I make sure to charge it when I get down to two or three bars. Hopefully I can get the issues resolved that are more accessory items, except the brakes work but am constantly working to resolve.

This is my first ebike so I don’t have anything to compare to but I liked the price point and hopefully if I can get the chariot to attach it will do what the website claims it can.

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Thanks for the testimonial, Molly! It sounds like you’re bing very patient, I wish things were easier… My guess is that because the Packa is a newer model for Blix and the industry has been going nuts this summer (high order volume due in part to COVID) they are scrambling to keep up. Some companies let go of staff going in to the pandemic and are shorthanded right when they need help the most! Anyway, it sounds like you’re keeping a good attitude, but you deserve better and I hope Blix comes through for you and things smooth out. Brakes are usually pretty standard across ebikes and regular bikes, so maybe a local shop could perform a $100 tune tup on your bike and get some of the kinks worked out. I actually just dropped my bike at the dealer for a full inspection the other day too, because they have special tools and are usually more familiar with hardware than I am, even as a pretty dedicated bicycle enthusiast myself :D

  Reply
Michael Richardson
4 years ago

Was long at stepthrough EB’s, but going in I was concerned about the strength, and floppies of them. I’ve seen your reviews of Blix and Rad and like what you have to say, and started long at the RadWagon 4, and the Blix Paka. I like how the RadW4 tires can be deflated some to help with a little offloading. After watching and reading more stuff, I wonder if there is a reasonable priced bike that has a lower stepthrough, that also comes with torque sensors, and hydraulic brakes. Probably not, but thought I’d ask. Coming down to Packa v. RW4. Anybody else compare these head to head?

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Hi Michael! The only other affordable ebikes with torque sensors (that I’ve covered and know of) are from Surface 604, and they don’t have a cargo model. Between the RW4 and Packa, I’d probably go with Rad because I like the design and my Dad has a RadRover, so I could borrow his battery pack for longer rides. Blix is awesome, I love that they have dealers, and their optional dual battery setup is very cool… so either way I think you’ll enjoy. I feel that both bikes are fairly approachable without getting too much frame flex flop feeling. I think Rad is a bit better on this front… but it’s also heavier at 76+ lbs vs. 72lbs for the Packa ;)

  Reply
Michael Richardson
3 years ago

Court, Thank you for the reply. I looked at the Packa already too, and came to the same conclusion as you did, that the RW4 would be better, so it’s kinda coming down to that or the Radcity 3 stepthrough. Actually, I was thinking of contacting RAD to see if they would offer any kind of discount if I got 2 bikes, like Blix offers. It’s only $200 off if you get 2, but that’s something.

There is a bike out there that has all the goodies on it, but it’s outside your, and my definition of affordable priced. It’s $5K, I think it’s called the Avant +7 8S. I saw a video on it, but it may have been done by company. There is a bike rental shop in Stillwater, MN (not too far from me), but they don’t have any RW4’s, just the Rad step through. I’m probably not going to find a place that has a RW4 to test out in the twin cities MN, am I? Pretty sure that’s the one I want to get. Maybe the five thousand dollars bike next time. But I might want a mountain bike next.

Dee
3 years ago

I had the exact same dilemma. I was considering both the Rad Wagon and the Blix Packa as a commuter replacement for my beater car. I initially went with the Rad Wagon due to a longer market presence, but I cancelled my Rad Wagon 4 order and bought the Blix. Just got the shipping notice email today, it’s arriving next Tuesday! So stoked. They promised a ship date at the end of September, looks like that was a reliable lead time.

It’s a tough call, a Rad with running boards came out to be the same price as a Blix, give or take a few tacos. I’ve ridden Rad Rovers and the Rad Mini before buying and was very happy with Rad’s setup. What made me opt for the Blix instead was:

  • 50lbs higher cargo volume
  • Considerably greater range with dual batteries
  • 24″ tires! I spent some time looking around for replacement tires and Rad’s 22″ tires are pretty hard to find, while 24″ tires are plentiful in a variety of treads

I’ve had great customer service experiences with both companies, at least in the research/ordering process.

  Reply
Brock
3 years ago

Any updates from those who purchased the Blix? Torn between the Rad and the Blix but the pricing on the Blix just keeps getting better so leaning in that direction considering they’re both pretty comparable.

Dave Hopkins
2 years ago

Have not gotten my Packa top start at all. It is dead in the water- i am looking forward to goi8ng up to the Packa manufacturing location and have it fixed. I would love to be riding the bike instead of trying to figure out what’s up

  Reply
Court
2 years ago

Hi Dave, that sounds frustrating… I hope they are able to help you quickly so you can enjoy the bike, and it’s not too much of a hassle to get to their location. I genuinely feel that the company cares, and that they have quality products, I hope it proves to be true for you.

  Reply

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