Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport Review

Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport Electric Bike Review 1
Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport
Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport 350 Watt Geared Motor
Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport Battery Pivot Point
Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport Lcd Computer Display
Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport Torque Sensor And Cassette
Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport Electric Bike Review 1
Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport
Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport 350 Watt Geared Motor
Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport Battery Pivot Point
Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport Lcd Computer Display
Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Easy Motion Neo Volt Sport Torque Sensor And Cassette

Summary

  • Purpose built frame is rigid and well balanced, the drivetrain features more gears than the standard Neo Volt but doesn't include fenders, rack or LED lights, instead it comes with larger knobby tires and disc brakes for all-terrain use
  • Uses the same powerful 350 volt geared hub motor, 36 volt 9 amp hour batter and intuitive removable LCD console as the full sized Easy Motion electric bikes
  • Unique folding design bends inward and locks in place, bicycle can be rolled when folded

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

Easy Motion

Model:

Neo Volt Sport

Price:

$2,599 USD

Body Position:

Upright

Suggested Use:

Trail, Travel, Urban

Electric Bike Class:

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

Warranty:

2 Year Comprehensive, Optional 5 Year Frame with Registration

Availability:

United States

Model Year:

20132014

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

45 lbs (20.41 kg)

Battery Weight:

5 lbs (2.26 kg)

Motor Weight:

8 lbs (3.62 kg)

Frame Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Frame Sizes:

20" in (50.8 cm)

Geometry Measurements:

(Top Tube Horizontal 675 mm, Head Tube Length 175 mm, Seat Tube Center to Top 280 mm, Chain Stay 403 mm, Wheelbase 1084 mm, Full Length 1580 mm)

Frame Types:

Step-Thru, Folding

Frame Colors:

White with Black Accents

Frame Fork Details:

Steel, Rigid

Attachment Points:

Fender Bosses, Rear Rack Bosses

Gearing Details:

8 Speed 1x8 Shimano HG51, 12-28T

Shifter Details:

MicroSHIFT Trigger Shifters on Right Bar

Cranks:

Suntour 48T

Pedals:

Plastic Folding Platform

Headset:

VP

Stem:

Folding

Handlebar:

Aluminum Alloy, Flat

Brake Details:

Tektro Auriga E-Comp Hydraulic Disc with 160 mm Rotors

Grips:

Velo Ergonomic

Saddle:

Emotion Performance

Seat Post Length:

580 mm

Seat Post Diameter:

31.6 mm

Rims:

Alloy Double Wall

Spokes:

Stainless Steel

Tire Brand:

Kenda, 20" x 1.95"

Wheel Sizes:

20 in (50.8cm)

Tire Details:

Anti-Puncture Relex

Accessories:

Aluminum Bash Guard, Custom Kickstand, Reflectors

Other:

Model EN263

Electronic Details

Motor Brand:

Dapu

Motor Type:

Rear-Mounted Geared Hub
Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

350 watts

Battery Brand:

Samsung

Battery Voltage:

36 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

8.8 ah (Optional 12 ah)

Battery Watt Hours:

316.8 wh (Optional 432)

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-ion

Charge Time:

4 hours (~80% in Two Hours)

Estimated Min Range:

20 miles (32 km)

Estimated Max Range:

50 miles (80 km)

Display Type:

Removable Backlit LCD

Readouts:

Speed, Odometer, Battery Capacity, Assist Level (Eco 1:0.7 Ratio 70% Assist, Standard 1:1.4 Ratio 140% Assist, Sport 1:2 Ratio 200% Assist, Boost 1:3 Ratio 300% Assist)

Drive Mode:

Torque Sensing Pedal Assist, Twist Throttle (Half Twist on Right Bar)

Top Speed:

25 mph (40 kph)(20 in Throttle Mode, ~25 in Pedal Assist)


Written Review

The Neo Volt series from Easy Motion delivers a unique folding frame design combined with smaller 20″ wheel size for easy storage and transport. These aren’t the lightest folding ebikes in the world, with the Sport weighing in at 45 pounds and the standard Volt weighing in at 49, but the removable battery pack can make them even lighter (it weighs ~5 pounds) and provides convenience in charging. The drive systems used here are the same as what’s included with the full sized Easy Motion Neo bikes and is very capable, especially given the smaller wheel diameter which creates mechanical advantage for the motor.

While the Neo Volt Sport does not include lights, fenders or a rear rack (though it does include braze ons for adding them yourself) it does have larger diameter 1.95″ tires that smooth out the ride. Its performance seat, lighter weight and eight speed cassette deliver high performance. Neither the Volt or Volt Sport come with suspension forks, seat post shocks or sprung saddles but they do include ergonomic grips. The compact design feels very solid compared to other folding ebikes I’ve ridden and I love how the folding feature works, pivoting up instead of sideways. When locked in this folded position the Sport can actually be wheeled around which is very convenient, it also stays put without bungees, magnets or other tie systems.

The motor propelling this bike offers 350 volts of power in a planetary geared hub design. This enables it to be light weight and thin, providing room for a rear cassette with gears. When paired with the four modes of torque sensing pedal assist this motor becomes a very capable climber and quite efficient in terms of range. It’s also relatively quiet to operate as shown in the video review. I love that the motor and battery are backed by a two year warranty and the sense of longevity that Easy Motion, which is part of the BH brand out of Spain, provides. They’ve been making regular bicycles since 1909 and the quality and attention to detail really shows here. Because the battery packs used on this and other Neo bikes are essentially the same (aside from color) finding a replacement or purchasing a second one for extended range is no problem; they cost ~$500 and are also starting to increase in capacity to 12 amp hours.

The drive system on this and other Neo bikes feels very integrated. Despite what I would call an average sized 36 volt 9 amp hour stock battery pack, the bike feels very powerful and I attribute that to fine tuning within the control system. The LCD computer console is easy to use, placed close to the left grip for convenient reach when riding and is completely removable to deter tampering when parked. It even comes with a little fabric pouch for storage. When you look at this bike and see the matching console, integrated battery pack and Easy Motion label stamped right onto the rear hub motor it becomes clear that this is a quality product. The one drawback to the design, in my opinion, is that you actually have to remove the battery pack in order to charge it. Considering how nice the battery pack looks, setting it on the floor raises the concern of scratching or dulling the clear coat. When you’ve just paid over $2.5K for an electric bike, it tends to invoke a sense of pride and protection ;)

The Neo Volt Sport is a wonderful machine capable of full sized ebike performance. It feels stiff and solid unlike some other folders and the option of both pedal assist and twist throttle are really wonderful. The torque sensing design is very responsive, amplifying the pressure you exert when pedaling. And this is probably one of the only folding electric bikes I’ve seen with hydraulic disc brakes that is capable of higher 20mph speeds. Most similar models only reach 15mph and even then, can feel wobbly and unstable. The kickstand is beautiful, following the curves of the bike when brought up, and the aluminum bash guard protects the front ring and your pants when pedaling. This would be a wonderful bike for commuting to work, transporting on a train, bus or subway, or storing in an RV, boat, small room or medium sized closet – kept out of the way. It’s capable and comfortable over long distances but may be overkill if you don’t have to go that far; the extra weight is the big trade off.

Pros:

  • Solid two year warranty on the battery pack and up to five year warranty on the bike if you register online
  • LCD computer unit is backlit, easy to reach, simple to understand, well sealed against water and dust, does not require separate batteries, is removable and includes pouch
  • Four levels of torque sensing pedal assist (Eco at 70%, Standard at 140%, Sport at 200% and Boost at 300% rider input) are responsive, smooth, efficient and great for climbing
  • Twist throttle mode makes starting from rest easy, rides like a scooter
  • Shimano RD-2300 eight speed cassette offers good range for climbing or reaching medium speeds
  • Integrated battery design looks great and keeps weight low and centered on the frame
  • Wires and cables are all integrated into the frame keeping them out of sight and out of harms way
  • Unique kickstand is bent to follow the profile of the frame when stowed
  • Two fold settings: inward folding design locks in place and allows bike to be rolled or fully folded where the wheels overlap (shown in pictures linked below under resources)
  • Aluminum bash guard built into the front chain ring to protect teeth and reduce snags and grease on pants
  • Smaller 20″ wheels improve mechanical advantage for climbing when paired with hub motor design

Cons:

  • No water bottle cage bosses or braze ons, may have to add an aftermarket solution or use a CamelBak
  • Battery must be unlocked and taken completely off the frame for charging
  • No indicator for when battery is locked or unlocked on the frame, could make it easier to forget and fall off
  • No suspension fork, seat post shock or seat springs to smooth out the ride
  • No fenders, lights or racks however there are braze ons on the fork and seat stays where you can add your own

Resources:

More Easy Motion Reviews

Easy Motion Atom Diamond Wave Pro Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A feature-complete city electric bike with approachable but sturdy step-thru frame, the all-black paint scheme hides the compact motor and cables (which are mostly internally routed), only one frame size. Comes with durable but lightweight Curana alloy+plastic fenders, a premium rear rack with standard gauge…...

Easy Motion Rebel Lynx 5.5 27.5 + PW-X Review

  • MSRP: $4,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A full suspension electric trail bike with 140mm air shocks by Fox, split pivot rear design isolates pedal and braking power from terrain response, available in two frame sizes. Beautiful aesthetic, matte black and gloss black paint throughout, blacked out anodized stanchions, internally routed…...

Easy Motion Rebel Gravel-X PW Review

  • MSRP: $3,399
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A lightweight electric gravel grinder with drop bars, aero wheelset, mechanical disc brakes (using Shimano ICE Tech rotors and heat sinks), and a 22-speed Shimano 105 drivetrain. Blacked-out aesthetic hides the battery and motor casing, internally routed cables stay out of the…...

Easy Motion Rebel Cross Lite PW Review

  • MSRP: $2,799
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

An efficient, well-balanced, very quiet electric cross bike with the Yamaha PW mid-drive motor and downtube battery, available in three sizes with angled top tube fore fit and stand-over comfort. Sporty but thoughtful color scheme, the fork and downtube are black which hide the motor…...

Easy Motion Evo Cross+ Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A well-rounded performance electric bike that blends in, offers good weight distribution, and provides pedal assist and twist-throttle drive mode operation. Upgraded hydraulic disc brakes with integrated motor inhibitors provide quick stops, dynamic TMM4 torque sensor…...

Easy Motion Evo 27.5 Pro Review

  • MSRP: $3,099
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A zippy hub motor driven, hardtail electric mountain bike with 20 gears, upgraded air fork from Fox, large 203/180 mm hydraulic disc brakes. Seamless battery integration creates a stealthy look and low-center weight distribution, high-capacity battery powers an…...

Easy Motion Evo City+ Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

An efficient commuter style e-bike with great safety features like integrated LED lights, reflective sidewall stripes on the tires, and motor-inhibiting brake levers. One of the most beautiful, normal looking, electric bikes around, Easy Motion is known for…...

Easy Motion ATOM Lynx 4.8 27.5 Pro Review

  • MSRP: $4,399
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A full suspension cross-country or all-mountain electric bike with beautifully hidden motor and battery pack, 120 mm suspension from Fox, available in two frame sizes for improved fit. High-end 180 mm Shimano SLX brakes with tool-free adjustable levers, rigid thru-axles front and rear…...

Easy Motion ATOM Diamond Wave Review

  • MSRP: $3,299
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A comfortable, easy to handle, city-style electric bike with adjustable handlebars... so you can sit upright and rest your back like a cruiser or lean forward and be active. Designed for comfort with a premium gel saddle, coil suspension fork and ergonomic grips, safety…...

Easy Motion Evo Big Bud Pro Review

  • MSRP: $3,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

An all-wheel drive electric fat bike with adjustable drive modes (rear, front or both with traction control), beautifully integrated battery and compact motors blend in making it stealth. Upgraded quick release and thru-axle design makes the rear wheel easier to remove and the…...

Easy Motion Evo Jumper Pro Review

  • MSRP: $4,399
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

A full suspension trail ready electric bike with beautifully integrated frame-matched battery pack and compact, nimble hub motor offering 500 watts of power, battery can be charged on or off the frame. High quality, light weight air suspension from RockShock with rebound adjust and remote lockout up…...

Easy Motion Nitro City Review

  • MSRP: $4,399
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

A speed pedelec capable of 28 mph top speeds in pedal assist mode, also has a twist throttle that can reach ~12 mph for moments when you need a break, extra large 504 watt hour battery pack with Samsung cells. Feature complete with plastic fenders, a chain guard, rear rack with reflectors and bungee cords…...

Easy Motion Evo City Wave Review

  • MSRP: $3,099
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

One of the most popular Emotion bikes in the line because it's easy to mount and handle at rest thanks to the step-thru frame and comfortable to ride thanks to its suspension fork, gel saddle, riser bars and ergonomic grips. Relatively affordable, only $100 more than 2015, and you get a more powerful motor and…...

Easy Motion Evo Jet Review

  • MSRP: $3,099
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

An elegant looking city style electric bike with several comfort-oriented accessories including suspension fork with lockout, ergonomic grips and larger 2" tires by Schwalbe with puncture resistant layer. Performance level Shimano Acera drivetrain offers 24 gear combinations for efficient pedaling, upgraded hydraulic disc…...

Easy Motion Evo City Review

  • MSRP: $3,099
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

A large electric bike that would work well for taller riders who feel cramped on other models, it only comes in one size but the stem is adjustable and the top tube is angled to make stand-over more comfortable. Perfect for commuting in urban and city environments, rain or shine, night or day because…...

Easy Motion Evo Snow 29″ Pro Review

  • MSRP: $3,299
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

A more powerful version of the original EVO Snow offering 48 volt battery and higher amp controller, delivers two hub motors for improved traction in snow and soft terrain (gravel, sand, mud). Clean integrated battery and wires are hidden inside the downtube, high-step frame is stiff and…...

Easy Motion EasyGo Volt Review

  • MSRP: $1,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

A light weight folding electric bike at a reasonable price from a leading company (BH and Easy Motion) with an excellent warranty and solid dealer network. Excellent backlit display panel... it's compact and blends in, can be removed for safe storage…...

Easy Motion Big Bud Pro Review

  • MSRP: $3,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

An all-wheel-drive electric fat bike with a 350 watt geared hub in the rear and a 250 watt geared hub in the front, provides excellent stability on soft terrain. Powerful 48 volt Lithium-ion battery pack built with high quality Samsung cells, it's removable for…...

Easy Motion Evo Snow 29″ Review

  • MSRP: $3,299
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

An all-wheel-drive electric hardtail trail bike with large 29" wheels for improved traction, rolling momentum and clearance. You get a 350 watt rear geared motor and a 250 watt front geared motor…...

Easy Motion EasyGo Street Review

  • MSRP: $1,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

A light weight, low-step, city style electric bike with fenders, chain guard, a rear carry rack and independent LED headlight. Short seat tube and reach distance make this a great choice for petite riders, only…...

Easy Motion EasyGo Race Review

  • MSRP: $1,299
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

A light weight, relatively affordable single speed city ebike with a modest 250 watt motor and 208 amp hour battery pack. Available in one frame size with a taller high-step-design, efficient narrow tires and deep dish…...

Easy Motion Xenion Jumper 27.5 Review

  • MSRP: $5,199
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A full suspension mid-drive powered electric bike with excellent weight distribution, premium suspension from Fox with dual lock out and a two year warranty. Quick release on both wheels, removable battery and display, 10 speed Shimano Deore XT drivetrain...

Easy Motion Xenion Cross Review

  • MSRP: $3,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

An efficient, light weight, well balanced active-commuter style electric bike with a solid two year warranty. Quick release wheels, removable battery and display panel, solid kickstand, smooth hydraulic disc brakes...

Easy Motion Evo 27.5 Jumper Review

  • MSRP: $4,299
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A full suspension electric mountain bike with beautiful battery integration, internally routed cables and nimble efficient motor. High quality Shimano XT and Deore drivetrain components with 30 speeds to choose from, solid…...

Easy Motion Evo 29 Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A 29er style electric mountain bike with beautifully integrated downtube battery and efficient, light weight internally geared rear hub motor by dapu. With 30 gears to choose from on a Shimano Deore XT drivetrain this ebike climbs…...

2015 Easy Motion Evo City Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

The largest and stiffest city style electric bike from Easy Motion in the EVO lineup, perfect for taller individuals. Excellent utility features including full length fenders, chain guard, sturdy rear rack with bungee cords…...

2015 Easy Motion Evo City Wave Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

Great "all around" city style electric bike with twist throttle and four levels of pedal-assist for extending range. Excellent accessories including suspension fork, ergonomic grips, full length fenders and a carry rack, dynamo…...

Easy Motion Evo Street Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A feature complete city style electric bike that's well balanced, beautifully designed and easy to mount and ride. Comes with dynamo powered lights, fenders, a rear carry rack, suspension fork and tool-free adjustable…...

Easy Motion Evo 27.5 Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

One of the most beautiful purpose-built electric trail bikes I've tested, integrated battery pack (charge on or off the bike), quick release wheels front and rear with quick disconnect on hub motor. 650B 27.5" wheel size is efficient and smooth but still nimble, mid-step frame design easy…...

Easy Motion Evo Race Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

The lightest weight, most efficient electric bike in the Easy Motion Evo series, designed for road cycling on smooth tarmac. Drawing on the 100+ year bicycling heritage of BH, the Race offers 30 speeds on…...

Easy Motion Bosch City Wave Review

  • MSRP: $3,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

One of the only deep step-thru electric bikes powered by Bosch that's available in the US for 2015. Near perfect selection of accessories including full length fenders, integrated LED lights, carry rack and…...

2015 Easy Motion Evo Jet Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A premium step-thru only, city style electric bike with seamless battery and motor integration that create a stunning aesthetic and near perfect balance. Locking removable battery pack can be charged on or off the bike for convenience, LCD…...

2015 Easy Motion Nitro City Review

  • MSRP: $4,399
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

An commuter oriented speed pedalec capable of 28 mph top speeds - includes fenders, a rear carry rack, LED lights and mirror. Powerful 500 watt motor is compact, light weight and blends in along with the downtube…...

Easy Motion Evo Cross Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A versatile, well balanced, beautiful electric bike with motor and battery systems that blend in perfectly. Locking removable battery pack can be charged on or off the bike, LCD display can…...

Easy Motion Nitro Cross Review

  • MSRP: $4,399
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015, 2016

An urban oriented speed pedalec capable of 28 mph top speeds, includes a twist throttle that can reach ~20 mph but cannot be used in pedal assist mode. Great safety accessories including integrated LED lights, bar-end mirror and motor inhibiting break levers...

Easy Motion Evo Eco Lite Review

  • MSRP: $2,399
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014, 2015

Polished city style electric bike with matching fenders a rack and dynamo powered LED lights. Offers twist throttle for instant go as well as four modes of pedal assist for…...

Easy Motion Neo Prox Review

  • MSRP: $1,799
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Small 20" wheels provide mechanical advantage for the motor and lower stand-over height, easy to mount. Includes matching fenders, rear carry rack and LED light that run off a front hub…...

Easy Motion Neo 29er Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Hardtail design with 30 gears, hydraulic disc brakes and suspension with rebound and lock out adjust. Offers twist throttle for power on demand and four levels of torque sensing pedal assist…...

Easy Motion Neo Jet Review

  • MSRP: $2,899
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Shorter frame is easy to mount and stand over, step-through design is perfect for petite riders. Uses the same high power 350 watt geared motor and removable 36 volt battery as…...

Easy Motion Neo 650B Jumper Review

  • MSRP: $4,299
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013, 2014

Full suspension electric mountain bike with performance 27.5" wheels for improved efficiency. Rear hub motor design increases unsprung weight (reducing traction) but is quiet and fast...

Easy Motion Neo Volt Review

  • MSRP: $2,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014, 2015

Purpose built frame is well balanced and aesthetically pleasing, includes lights, fenders and carry rack. Uses the same powerful 350 watt geared hub motor, 36 volt 9 amp hour battery…...

Easy Motion Neo City Review

  • MSRP: $2,799
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013, 2014

Upright commuter style electric bike with large 700c wheels and narrow tires for efficient coasting. Suspension fork, padded seat, ergonomic grips and adjustable stem and handlebars offer comfort...

Easy Motion Neo 650B Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013, 2014

Designed for cross country riding with 30 gears, suspension fork with lockout, and efficient 27.5" wheels. Responsive torque sensing pedal assist with four levels as well as a twist throttle for…...

Easy Motion Neo Carbon Review

  • MSRP: $4,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013, 2014

Capable road bike with 30 gear range, large 700c wheels, efficient Supersport tires and a carbon frame. Top speed of 20 mph in throttle mode and 25 mph in pedal assist mode…...

Easy Motion Neo Xtrem Review

  • MSRP: $2,799
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013, 2014

Geared for trail riding with a front shock, nimble 26" wheels, knobby tires and 24 speeds with trigger shifters. Twist throttle with a top speed of 20 mph and four levels of torque sensing…...

Easy Motion Neo Street Review

  • MSRP: $2,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013, 2014

Approachable low-step commuter style ebike with rear rack, dynamo lights, fenders and adjustable stem. Relatively light weight frame, clean design with hidden wires, lower to the ground thanks to…...

Easy Motion Neo Race Review

  • MSRP: $3,099
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013, 2014

Advanced road bike styling is light weight, stiff and fast but lacks drop bars. Integrated downtube battery keeps weight low to the ground distributed evenly across the frame for…...

Easy Motion Neo Cross Review

  • MSRP: $2,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013, 2014

Stiff, aggressive and light weight cross-style electric bike with torque sensing rear hub motor. Removable LCD computer interface is intuitive to use and doesn't get in the way when…...

Easy Motion Neo Jumper Review

  • MSRP: $4,099
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013, 2014

Well balanced full suspension frame with lock-out, smaller 26" wheels provide great manuverability. Beautifully integrated motor and battery pack, this electric bike blends in well and isn't very…...


Comments (7) YouTube Comments

D. R. Win
10 years ago

I hope you will consider the following real-world items and issues if you ever update the review. I just spent nearly $2K on this bike and I really believe that there are much cheaper bikes out there with far more functional designs. If I could get my money back and start over, I would–with something else.

I used only zero power or the power assist, not the power only setting.

The Good
– Great power; you can jet up very steep hills with very little effort.
– Very easy to change among power assist modes (more/less) while riding.
– Good battery life—during a 15-mile ride in varied terrain using medium to high assist, the battery went down only 1 bar (out of 5).
– Well built, solid, feels good to ride.
– Fairly light for what it is—the motor and battery are heavy and there’s no way around that.
– Pedals quite smoothly on level ground with the power off. Seems to coast a bit faster than a normal bike—maybe due to the extra weight?
– Good brakes.
– In general, you can go twice as fast with half the effort compared to a non-electric bike. On level ground, 25mph is very easy.

The Bad
– Erratic power at lower settings—not smooth, but on/off, very jerky. The top two power settings are very smooth and fast.
– The shifter is over-engineered, and hard to work. Two levers, one to shift up, one to shift down. You have to keep pushing multiple times. And it’s hard to know what gear you are in. A simple single lever like they had in the 50s and 60s would actually have been much better. Push one way to gear up, the other way to gear down. Why make it more complex than necessary?
– The cool-looking kickstand has a little protrusion that will hook your sandal while you’re pedaling.
– The folding mechanism is a royal pain. The push-button is hard to operate.
– When folded there is nothing holding the front wheel in place, so it flops around and turns this way and that, so you can’t wheel the bike easily.
Would have been better if it folded sideways.
– Have to remove the battery to charge it. Not at all convenient
– The seat post is pretty short; if you’re about 6ft tall or over, you’ll either need to find a longer one, or get used to riding with your knees bent.
– The front wheel has a quick-release hub, so if you park you will want to lock it to something. But there is absolutely no place near the front of the bike frame to run a chain, cable or “U” lock through. To secure both the front wheel and the rest of the bike, you must either remove the front wheel, or fold the bike, or buy a very long cable or chain—heavy and inconvenient. Dumb design. In the real world, people do steal things.
– The owner’s manual is useless (mostly multiple safety warnings, and a few very basic and general observations with zero detail or “how to”) and doesn’t even describe the bike you bought (Neo Volt Sport), but some other model. At close to $2K a pop, you’d think they could at least provide a decent manual.

Bottom line: a good ride once you get the hang of it, but too many “clever” design concepts by someone who forgot that form follows function. And you have to wonder if the designers ever actually spent time dealing with the bike. It’s telling that nowhere on the manufacturer’s site or in the “manual” is there any information on the dimensions of the bike when folded. We buy folding bikes because they fit in smaller spaces, right? So it’s utterly obvious that we would want to know how much space is required—and they have ignored this issue.

  Reply
Court Rye
10 years ago

Great insights, thanks for sharing! Here’s another ebike called the e-Joe Epik Lite that’s a bit more traditional in design (and affordable) you might be interested in someday if you sell your Volt.

  Reply
D. R. Win
10 years ago

Aloha, thanks for the response. The Neo Volt is a good ride but so frustrating in most other respects. It’s also longer (both folded and open) than many folding bikes, which reduces its usefulness in condo and apartment living, not to mention putting it in the car. And isn’t that supposed to be the point?

I did check out the e-Joe Epik SE (the Lite has only one speed which to me makes no sense at all); it’s pretty good but overall seems more like a beta version. Just somehow has an unfinished or ad hoc look and feel to it.

I have a couple of Dahon Speed 7s–at some point I may get one of them converted, although I’ve heard both good and bad of the BionX kits. To my mind the Dahon/Tern design is the best folding frame type. Mobik uses the same frame (they only admit that it is “similar”) but they don’t have a dealer network and if something goes wrong I would be out of luck for service.

In a 250W the A2B Kuo (again, Dahon-type frame) is my top contender; I’m hoping that at some point they put out a 350W model.

DR

  Reply
teri
10 years ago

I absolutely love this bike. Looked at less expensive ones, but when I took this one for a ride, I was sold! Sold construction, great sporty ride and easy to use. I do not mind taking battery off to charge. I like the look of the batter being intergrated within the frame. Killer bike and heads turn when I pass them by!

  Reply
Raju Subbanna
10 years ago

I agree with some of D. R. Win’s. I would give 9/10 may be little more then 9 for this bike. This is my best rated Electric bike (price+ performance). This is a keeper! Footnote: I have not tried out Epik. But If I have to match the spec then Epik has no advantage. Yes D. R. Win! Except Dahon I don’t see any of these manufacturers or reviewers do a good job in specing the size, especially folded size. Too bad, I had to go with a tape and measure each of them. I want it @less then 32 inchs folded, to travel by caltrain, can’t carry any bigger. (Otherwise it goes into bike trailer and gets stolen) Great bike. I use all levels of its assist. I enjoy the boost mode. Great stability and braking. Seat height is not an issue for me D. R. Win, nor is the shifting.

Wishlist: 1. Kick stand should not come in the way. 2. Proper backlite. 3. Easy and better folding. First part is ok. The second part which brings it to about 32 is unfinished. 4. Manuverability when folded. 5. Some shock absorbsion, especially at 15mph+, U start feeling it. 6.Front wheel issue that D. R. Win mentioned after folding. 7.Bottle Carry and Kit Rack. 8.Manual please!! I drive 16 miles on it, everyday for work. Charge only once during the wkday.

  Reply
Court Rye
10 years ago

Thanks for your feedback Raju! It’s always nice to hear from an ebike owner and I agree with many of the items on your “wish list” there. With the smaller wheels, it can get bumpy at higher speeds and the seat post is too long to use with a Thudbuster for most people.

  Reply
Darren
10 years ago

This bike is awesome

  Reply

Post a Comment

Your email address will not be published.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.