Jetson Bolt Pro Review

2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Electric Bike Review
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 350 Watt Planetary Geared Hub Motor
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 36 Volt 6 Amp Hour 216 Watt Hour Battery
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Flat Handlebar Grips Button Pads
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Integrated Led Headlight
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 37 Tooth Chainring Chain Cover Bottom Bracket
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 140mm Steel Crank Arms Plastic Pedals
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 160mm Mechanical Disc Brakes
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Left Side
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Comfort Sprung Saddle Kickstand
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 12 Tooth Rear Sprocket Single Speed
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Sealed Cadence Sensor
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Ebike
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Compact Folding Electric Bike
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Box
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Unboxing
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 1 5 Amp Compact Charger Led Rear Light
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Rear Fender Saddle Pedals Manuals
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Folding Mid Step Black
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Electric Bike Review
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 350 Watt Planetary Geared Hub Motor
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 36 Volt 6 Amp Hour 216 Watt Hour Battery
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Flat Handlebar Grips Button Pads
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Integrated Led Headlight
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 37 Tooth Chainring Chain Cover Bottom Bracket
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 140mm Steel Crank Arms Plastic Pedals
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 160mm Mechanical Disc Brakes
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Left Side
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Comfort Sprung Saddle Kickstand
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 12 Tooth Rear Sprocket Single Speed
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Sealed Cadence Sensor
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Ebike
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Compact Folding Electric Bike
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Box
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Unboxing
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro 1 5 Amp Compact Charger Led Rear Light
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Rear Fender Saddle Pedals Manuals
2022 Jetson Bolt Pro Folding Mid Step Black

Summary

  • An extremely affordable compact electric bike sold online and through big box retailers such as Costco. Available in one frame size and one color: satin black with gloss black accents. Optional front and rear baskets sold separately. 265lb max weight capacity.
  • The 350 watt hub motor gets a mechanical advantage from the smaller 14" wheel size, and operates without making too much noise. The single speed drivetrain is quiet and simple, the chain is unlikely to fall off. Included mudguards and chain cover help keep you clean.
  • Battery weight is kept low and center on the frame. A handle slot allows for easier lifting of the bike, and the steer post folds to make it more compact. Integrated headlight and included clasp-on rear light improve safety. Mechanical disc brakes have motor inhibitor switches.
  • Most metal parts including frame, fork, seat post, steering post, handlebar, and crank arms are steel which increase weight and potential for rust. The bike weighs 43.2lbs and the battery is not removable. Battery charge port is in the path of the left crank arm. Very limited display readouts, only one level of pedal assist, I had reliability issues with motor power and pedal assist.

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

Jetson

Model:

Bolt Pro

Price:

$599

Body Position:

Upright, Upright Relaxed

Suggested Use:

Neighborhood, Urban

Electric Bike Class:

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

Warranty:

1 Year Limited

Availability:

United States, Canada, Spain, United Kingdom

Model Year:

2022

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

43.2 lbs (19.59 kg)

Frame Material:

Steel

Frame Sizes:

13.5 in (34.29 cm)

Geometry Measurements:

Folded Dimensions (LWH): 46.5" x 19.3" x 23" Unfolded Dimensions (LWH): 46.5" x 19.3" x 38.6" Measurements: 13.5" Simulated Seat Tube, 20.5" Top Tube, 11.5" Reach, 22" Stand Over Height, 25" Minimum Saddle Height, 33" Maximum Saddle Height, 19.5" Width, 32" Wheelbase, 46.5" Length

Frame Types:

Folding, Mid-Step

Frame Colors:

Satin Black

Frame Fork Details:

Rigid Steel, 100mm Hub Spacing, 10mm Threaded Axle with Nuts

Frame Rear Details:

135mm Hub Spacing, 12mm Threaded Axle with Nuts

Attachment Points:

Fender Bosses

Gearing Details:

1 Single Speed, 12 Tooth Rear Cog

Cranks:

Steel, 140mm Length, 37 Tooth Steel Chainring with Plastic Guard

Pedals:

FP-810 Plastic Platform with Reflectors

Headset:

Integrated, Straight 1-1/8"

Stem:

Steel, 470mm Length, Folding Base, Curved Top with Quick Release Clamp, 24.5mm Clamp Diameter

Handlebar:

Steel, Flat, 470mm Length

Brake Details:

Mechanical Disc with 160mm Rotors, Four-Finger Levers with Motor Inhibitors

Grips:

Rubber, Flat

Saddle:

Comfort Design with Integrated Springs, Polyurethane Foam Inner

Seat Post:

Rigid Steel with Tapered Top, Basic Saddle Clamp with Two Nuts

Seat Post Length:

300 mm

Seat Post Diameter:

28.6 mm

Rims:

Cast Magnesium Alloy, 7 Arms

Tire Brand:

CST Cheng Shin Tire, 14" x 2.125" (57-254)

Wheel Sizes:

14 in (35.56cm)

Tire Details:

35 to 45 PSI, 2.4 to 3.1 BAR

Tube Details:

Schrader Valve

Accessories:

Rear-Mount Kickstand, Short Plastic Fenders Mudguards, Integrated LED Headlight, Removable Independent Rear Light (2 Red LEDs, 3 Modes: Solid, Fast Blinking, Slow Blinking, One CR2032 Coin Battery)

Other:

Integrated Non-Removable Battery Pack, Jetson Branded 0.6lb 42 Volt 1.5 Amp Charger, Folding Handlebar with Quick Release Clamp, Internal Cable Routing, 265lb (120kg) Max Weight Rating, Water Resistant

Electronic Details

Motor Brand:

Unknown

Motor Type:

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

Motor Nominal Output:

350 watts

Motor Torque:

80 Newton meters

Battery Brand:

Samsung 21700 Cells

Battery Voltage:

36 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

6 ah

Battery Watt Hours:

216 wh

Battery Chemistry:

lithium-ion

Charge Time:

4 hours

Estimated Min Range:

5 miles (8 km)

Estimated Max Range:

20 miles (32 km)

Display Type:

Fixed LED Console on Right

Readouts:

Charge Level (4 Green LEDs)

Display Accessories:

Power Button on Left, Cruise Control Headlight Button on Right (Press to Activate Cruise Control While Riding, Hold to Activate or De-Activate Headlight)

Drive Mode:

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

Top Speed:

15.5 mph (25 kph)


Written Review

This review was provided for free. My goal is to be transparent and unbiased with you, this video and writeup are not meant to be an endorsement of Jetson products. I welcome your corrections, additions, and feedback in the comments below, and the Jetson electric bike forums.

Observations:

  • The Bolt Pro is a very affordable compact electric bike that is sold in many countries including Canada, the United States, Spain, and the United Kingdom. I have seen it online at Amazon and in person at Costco stores.
  • The only portion of the bike that folds is the handlebar post. In order to make this ebike as compact as possible for storage or transport, you could also remove the saddle and seat post, and consider removing the pedals (which do not fold).

Pros:

  • Purpose-built frame is well balanced front to back, and the wires and cables are all internally routed through the frame. It looks pretty good in my opinion.
  • Fairly easy to unbox and assemble! All I had to do was attach the seat post, pedals, and rear fender, then swivel the handlebar so the brake levers were easier to reach.
  • One of the biggest pros is how affordable this electric bicycle is, at roughly $600 USD it could be a good option for a student, city commuter, or child who has a limited budget.
  • I like that it offers pedal assist and twist throttle, although I was unable to test pedal assist because it was not working on my demo bike. The twist throttle is very smooth and offers variable speed output so you can go slow if you wish.
  • Integrated headlight blinks to help keep you safe and visible to other cyclists and automobiles. The blinking might also reduce how much energy it uses vs. a steady beam.
  • Although it’s basic, the rear 2-LED light offers three modes! It can go solid, fast blink, or slow blink. It uses a disposable coin battery.
  • I was impressed by how quiet the bike is, the fenders didn’t rattle and the motor felt very smooth and quiet even when I was operating at full power! The website and manual say it can ascend inclines up to 15-degrees.
  • The extra thick foam saddle has springs built into the bottom, so it really improves ride comfort. This is great, considering the smaller wheel and tire size, and lack of suspension.
  • Jetson added a plastic chainring guard and chain cover to help keep your pants or dress from touching and snagging on the chain! The single-speed chain is unlikely to fall off and operated smoothly for me.
  • Cast magnesium-alloy rims tend to be sturdier than spokes and require less maintenance. They usually aren’t as forgiving in terms of flex. I appreciate the large white reflectors that are attached to both wheels on both sides.
  • While the bike doesn’t fold in half, the handlebar does fold down to the side and the saddle and seat post can be removed to make it very compact. You could even unscrew the pedals or replace them with folding pedals like these.
  • I appreciate that they routed the motor power cable between the frame and rear disc brake rotor vs. inserting on the right side through the axle. It seems well protected and should be more durable here.
  • The mechanical disc brakes worked well, and both brake levers have motor inhibitors for added safety! Mechanical brakes tend to be easier to adjust, and I appreciate the way that the housing for the wires both pointed down so water and dust wouldn’t enter as easily.
  • They included a flick bell to help you signal in a fun way while riding. I also appreciate the lights, fenders, and chain cover mentioned earlier. The battery charger is small and light enough to carry along to help extend range if your trip is long or takes an unexpected detour.
  • Jetson seems like a company that cares with online customer support, a phone number, and tags in the box that direct you to help if your bike has issues.
  • I like how the frame was designed with an opening at the center to serve as a lifting handle. I used it frequently this way and appreciate how balanced it was to lift. It also fit into the back seat of my Toyota Corolla during transport!
  • The bike is fun to ride and was able to power through grass and up a small hill (when I had momentum). I could see how it would be useful for a commute to school or the office, and I met a child who owned one and loved riding it around the block.
  • Even though it’s a folding design, the bike felt solid. Since the steer post doesn’t telescope and the frame itself doesn’t fold, the bike is sturdy enough to support riders up to 265lbs (120kg).
  • The website says they have a money-back period and a one year limited warranty, which gives me a bit of peace of mind that you could return the bike if it had an issue like mine… but I didn’t enjoy lugging the large box around and dread the shipping and waiting associated with that kind of situation.

Cons:

  • The bike is much heavier than I expected given the small overall size. I weighed it at 43.2lbs, which is very close to the official weight in the user manual. I think it has to do with the many steel parts including frame, fork, seat post, steer post, handlebar, and crank arms.
  • Steel is sturdy and can offer vibration dampening qualities, but it can also rust if the paint gets scratched. Consider using car paint or fingernail polish to touch things up if you are concerned about rust.
  • Since the battery is not removable, the bike needs to be parked near a charging outlet vs. left outside. This could be difficult if you’re commuting to school or work and want to extend range.
  • The charging port for the battery is located near the bottom of the pack on the left side of the frame, directly in the path of the left crank arm. I found it difficult to reach and felt it was vulnerable to getting snagged if the cranks turn while plugged in.
  • I’m not sure how battery replacement or repair works, but the manual says not to open the case. In some ways, this feels like a disposable product vs. one that could last and be repaired by a shop.
  • The bike is a single speed, and it felt comfortable to pedal… but you don’t get as many options for starting and climbing efficiently or maintaining a faster speed comfortably without spinning the cranks at a higher pace. The crank arms are also shorter than average at 140mm long vs. 170mm long.
  • The top speed is 25km/h which equates to 15.5mph, and that’s the top legal limit in much of Europe but not North America. Some might feel that it is slow, but this lower speed helps to extend range and could make it safer for children and young adults who are riding for fun and have less experience.
  • The first bike I tried was supposedly brand new, but the motor did not activate. I could see the LED lights on the display, the headlight worked, but the motor would only slightly turn for a second and then quit. Perhaps the wires got bent or stretched, maybe there was a controller issue? The second bike I tried did not have working pedal assist and was just 2-3 weeks old.
  • The bike only comes in one frame size, which is fairly small. I felt decently comfortable as a 5’9″ tall person with 30.5″ inseam, but I had the seat raised all the way and did not get full leg extension. Also, it might not fit on some car racks due to the shorter wheelbase and smaller wheels. It would be cool if they designed a rubber band or clasp to keep it folded and not rattling around… but I’m not sure I actually would fold it a lot due to concern about bending the wires repeatedly and causing an issue with pedal assist or the motor, as I experienced on the demo bikes.
  • The unique 14″ wheel size isn’t as common as 26″ or 28″ which could make finding replacement inner tubes more difficult. I saw them for sale on Amazon. The tires do not have puncture protection, so avoid stickers.
  • The bike sits low to the ground, so you might not be as visible when commuting. I appreciate the lights, but would love to see side cutouts on the headlight so it can be more visible, and possibly some reflective stickers on the sides or on the tires.
  • The battery capacity is less than half of what I would consider “average” for this generation of electric bikes. It offers 36 volts and 6 amp hours for a total of 216 watt hours, and their range estimate is in the 5-10 miles in the manual but up to 30 on the website. It depends on the rider weight and how the throttle or assist are used… but there is only one level of pedal assist from what I could tell and the battery charge level is difficult to estimate precisely with a 4-LED readout meant to communicate 25% increments.
  • This is a minor complaint, but the saddle clamp is difficult to adjust because it uses two nuts (so you might need two tools) and it can spin easier than a forged clamp that is built into the seat post. This is cheap old-school hardware that I remember from my very basic bikes as a kid.
  • The smaller wheel size decreases ride comfort, due to the higher attack angle and lower air volume. There’s no suspension fork, but the sprung saddle felt decent, and the lower top speed improves comfort a bit.
  • The battery charger is very small and light at 0.6lbs but also slower than average at 1.5 amps. The pedals are cheap and basic, but actually better than I expected! They worked fine. There’s no bottle cage mount, but it does appear that you could try to mount a rear rack or buy the basket accessories that Jetson offers.
  • The biggest con for me is a lack of dealers and question about quality and longevity of the product. My first ebike was a disappointment because I rode it a lot and wished I had spent more for something long-lasting.

Resources:

More Jetson Reviews

Jetson Electric Mountain Bike Review

  • MSRP: $1,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014, 2015

Powerful motor combined with a large battery pack for distance and climbing, frame flexes under weight and pressure. Lower end components (suspension and drivetrain) with a basic pedal assist sensor that isn't as…...

Comments (21) YouTube Comments

Opimax
2 years ago

I purchased one and rode it twice, granddaughter (who it really is for) rode it once as I have had it only a week. I thought for the Costco price of $339 or so it was a good deal, knowing it is pretty disposal ahead of time. I have seen a few on my local trail. Yesterday I saw a couple each on 1 with 1 small child each on their lap or something similar. Although, I wouldn’t think it safe it shows they are more use “guts” to them then many people would think.

  Reply
Court
2 years ago

Cool! That was a nice gift for your granddaughter. I hope she enjoys it like the kids I met during my video review. Overall, the bike is very affordable and can be a lot of fun. Thanks for sharing your experience with it so far :)

  Reply
Hal
2 years ago

I’ve had my Jetson Bolt Pro about a year. Bought it at Costco for $299. I weigh 235 lbs and am 6′ tall. Yes, I look unusual on this little bike. But it works. I fold the handlebars down, take the seat off, and simply put it in the trunk of my car.

I have modified the bike somewhat. Replaced the chainring with a 62T. Also added a 15AH battery on the rack. Had to do a little rewiring so I can connect either one when I put the seat with rack back on. This setup lets me pedal at the same rate as a normal bike and gets a range of a little over 50 miles.

On bike rides with friends, they are always surprised that I can get up hills faster than most regular and electrics. That 350W on the little wheel really works. Ok. It’s little. A conversation starter.

Very durable. Full throttle and letting the bike do all the work on many rides doesn’t seem to hurt it at all.

  Reply
Court
2 years ago

That’s fantastic Hal! Thanks for sharing your testimonial along with your height and weight so others can compare. I’m glad it’s working out well for you!

  Reply
Robert
1 year ago

I like your comment. How did you hook up a larger battery to increase the range? I am thinking of getting a Jetson E bike, It’s small light and easy to store. Would be perfect on the sailboat.

  Reply
N.S.
2 years ago

I hated this bike, the one I got had only 3 miles of range and it seems that these can’t even handle water!!! This bike sucks!!!

  Reply
Court
2 years ago

Thanks for sharing your perspective on the bike N.S. I got a lot of flack from people who thought I was too hard on it. I tried to explain exactly what my experience was and be thorough. There are usually some trade-offs with a super low price product like the Jetson Bolt Pro. They might not always come up, but there are times where the less expensive parts just don’t last or could have issues easier. I’m sorry to hear that yours had limited range and didn’t perform in wet environments… especially considering that it shops with fenders.

  Reply
G C
2 years ago

My son has a Segway electric scooter. He put about 1,000 miles on it. I’d recommend an electric scooter for kids. I would also say that electric scooters outnumber anything else electric by about 100:1 at the University of California campus nearby, as of 2022.

  Reply
Court
2 years ago

Cool! That’s a good tip G C. I’ve seen a lot of young people on scooters as well. As an adult, I find the bicycles to be more comfortable. They larger tires absorb vibration, and I’m able to use a bike rack to haul stuff vs. a backpack. As a younger person, I enjoyed skateboarding, but now I don’t want to risk a fall and the hard wheels are just too much for my knees.

  Reply
Jarrod
2 years ago

I bought my Jetson about a month ago and I love it, and my roommate is now getting one and I got mine at Costco for 339.00 which was great that I didn’t have to wait for it to be delivered. In my opinion it’s one of the best purchases I’ve made in a long time now as I said it’s early and only time will tell but at this moment in time I love it like I said. I’m 220 and it takes me where I need to go, no it’s not fast but it gets me there and back which is what is made to do so don’t take just my word for it get one and try it out for yourself you won’t be disappointed.

  Reply
Court
2 years ago

Hi Jarrod! I’m glad to hear that the bike is working for you and your roommate. Sounds like you got a good deal at Costco, and I’m glad it is capable of everything you wanted :D thanks again for sharing your review with us.

  Reply
Sue MacDonald
1 year ago

I have had two Jetson Bolts (not the pro version). The first one died after less than a year (about 100 charge cycles) Very disappointing). I thought I might have gotten a lemon, as I liked everything else I bought another one-same thing. I am waiting for a battery to be delivered-not from Jetson. Hopefully I will be back on the road again soon.

  Reply
Court
1 year ago

I hope the second one is more reliable for you, Sue! Thanks for the update, feel free to post again after some time so we can hear how it’s going :D

  Reply
Nicholas A. James
1 year ago

Hello, I am considering purchasing the Jetson Pro Bolt. My questions are, I notice that there is a 12″ and 14″ version. What are these sizes referring to? Is there a huge difference between the two? Is this something important enough that it should be instrumental in which one I purchase? If this helps, I am 5’10″and approx. 180 pounds.

  Reply
Court
1 year ago

Hi Nicholas! It might be referring to the wheel size. The one that I covered in this review had 14″ wheels, and I’m 5’9″ so pretty similar to you in height. I would go for this one, because the 12″ is likely lower and smaller. Hope this helps :)

  Reply
lucy
1 year ago

Hi! I want to buy this but I have a couple of questions.
(1) Let’s say the battery goes out while on the road or dies completely, can you use this bike and just pedal it like a normal bike?
(2) How long does it take to charge the battery?
(3) If you use the ‘electric’ part of the bike, do you need to pedal?
Thanks for answering my questions

  Reply
Court
1 year ago

Hi Lucy! I’ll try to answer these questions for you. Yes, you can pedal like a normal bicycle if the battery is run dry… but it’s a single speed, so pedaling isn’t very efficient. I believe the battery can charge completely in three to four hours, but will fill to half in just an hour or so. the remainder takes longer because the cells have to balance. Yes, you can operate this ebike with throttle only and not have to pedal. In that way, it can be used as a little scooter!

  Reply
Eric
1 year ago

I am in Canada. I bought a Jetson Bolt pro last year and I love it. Well, I did till I found out you can’t buy brake parts for it in Canada. Jetson has the worst customer service ever and they won’t ship parts outside of the USA. Their email support doesn’t work and they sent me to websites to buy parts but aren’t their dealers. Will never buy again.

  Reply
Court
1 year ago

Hi Eric, thanks for the feedback. It’s frustrating when parts aren’t available. Jetson is definitely striving to keep the initial price low, but it can result in waste sometimes. Sorry man.

  Reply
Abbas
10 months ago

I bought a Jetson Bolt pro last year and I love it.

  Reply
Court
10 months ago

Nice! I’ve seen a bunch of them around, and it appears there is a newer version at Sam’s Club in the United States :)

  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.