The Organic Transit ELF (which stands for Electric, Light, Fun) is part recumbent trike, part velomobile and part cargo bike. Borne on Kickstarter in 2013, the first generation ELF reached more than double it’s funding goal and has turned heads and hearts all over the world with some owners scooting to the grocery store and others crossing continents (Montana to Argentina to be exact). In short, the ELF is a custom made aluminum frame with three 26″ wheels, a high power centrally-mounted hub motor, a Trylon composite canopy with built in solar panel and LED lights and a battery pack. It’s simple in some ways but feels durable and maneuverable because it’s relatively light at ~150lbs depending on the options you choose. Because it’s so unique, the ELF can feel a bit out of place but the attention it gets is almost universally positive. It adheres to US bike regulations by limiting the top speed to 20mph, keeping the motor under 750 watts and adding pedals with gears. You can actually enjoy this thing on human power alone but that doesn’t make locking it up at the bike rack any easier.
powering this unique electric bike is a custom build 600 watt direct drive (gearless) hub motor mounted near the middle of the chassis. Most hub motors on ebikes serve as the hub in one of the wheels but Organic Transit chose to integrate it separately in order to step up the torque while simultaneously protecting it from the elements and vibration. It’s smooth, powerful and a bit quieter than the first generation ELF which used a geared motor design. I’d like to say it’s quiet too but the plastic body amplifies the noise so this bike is louder (at least to the rider) than a traditional bike would be. When the motor spins it pulls a chain on the left side of the rear wheel and when the rider pedals it pulls a separate chain on the right side of the wheel. Both freewheel so you don’t have to worry about cogging (magnetic resistance from the direct drive motor) and the chains are kept out of the way with PVC tubing that will keep your pants clean.
The ELF leverages standard bicycle components and has solid platform pedals, heavy duty chains and traditional 26″ wheels. While many recumbent bikes use 20″ wheels the ELF benefits from improved road clearance which also makes getting in a bit easier (you don’t have to bend down so far). The wheels also feature a higher attack angle making it easier to overcome bumps and span cracks and you’ve got the option to upgrade the tires for improved cushion as well as add wheel covers that are said to strengthen the wheel but mostly just improve the look and add “visual real estate” so cars can spot you easier when riding. The coolest part of this v1.5 ELF is that it comes standard with suspension bumpers. They don’t have the travel of a suspension fork and there’s no rebound adjustment or lockout but they do improve the ride and reduce the rattling of the frame when riding on rough terrain. Another option that reduces the jitters are larger tires made available as an upgrade.
The battery pack making this thing go offers 48 volts of power, 11.4 amp hours of capacity and a Lithium Manganese Cobalt chemistry that will hold up for over 1,000 charge cycles if properly cared for. It’s small, easy to access (sitting just below the captain’s seat) and light weight. Organic Transit sells extra packs and replacements starting at $600 but you can keep yours going by storing it away from extreme temperatures, charging it after rides and topping it off every few months if you haven’t ridden. The cells inside are 18650 which is becoming the standard in electric cars so they benefit from high volume manufacturing that adds consistency. Compared with some ebikes that have metal packs or fancy integrated designs the ELF battery is pretty simple but it works well, stays out of the way and is light.
Riding in the ELF feels different than riding on a bicycle. You’re protected from headwinds, rain, and direct sunlight (when overhead) but you also feel exposed because there aren’t really doors. I’ve been told you can order doors separately but I can see why most people don’t. In the same way that a convertible or Jeep feels open and lets you hear, smell and even touch your surroundings the ELF immerses you and this makes it fun, friendly and safe in a way. The seat is adjustable, sliding forward or back to let you reach the pedals comfortably. A standard handlebar lets you steer the front wheels and there’s a thumb throttle on the right as well as a bell and grip shifter on the left as well as a horn, light and turn signal switch. They packed a lot in but it feels simple and comfortable. If you plan to use the mobile app they offer with your phone or tablet there’s a rubberized holder that mounts in the center of the bars. You can also set your device on the dash and the screen will bounce off of the windshield giving you a neat heads up display (I think this is still a work in progress and they may sell a separate mount in the future).
The ELF is a special creation, inspiring and artistic but also functional. It’s real, it works and the guys who are making it are doing a good job. The metal chassis is aluminum alloy and won’t rust, the plastic frame has UV protection to resist fading and windows and other components are modular so you can repair it over time. While the ELF isn’t for everyone it’s amazing to think just how life changing it can and will be for some. Organic Transit introduced a program in 2014 called the 100th ELF that donate’s one of their ebikes to a school, non-profit or community in need ever time 100 ELF’s are sold. This thing can carry 350 pounds ~15 miles and will charge itself in a day! Imagine if you had to walk five miles to carry a 10 pound bucket of water back to your township and now you had this? Imagine having no driver’s license and needing a way to get to work. Imagine living in a small community and wanting to save money on insurance and gas but still needing to get to the grocery store once a week. For $5,500 this thing offers a lot of versatility and the company is responsive and thorough in their support. They also practice sustainable business and have been retrofitting the workshop with LED lights, skylights for employee health and a water garden to grow their own food. Nice.
A semi-recumbent electric trike with a plastic body resembling a velomobile that has a built in solar panel. Geared hub motor mounted mid-frame provides great torque and is protected from vibration and the…...
Portercat
11 years agoWow, the range is underwhelming. Wouldn’t get me to work and back.
ReplyNorbert Moniz
11 years agoI am in So. Ca and would like to test ride the ELF.
ReplyIs there a location I could visit?
Court Rye
11 years agoI’m not sure Norbert, you might have to email them or call the shop. I’ve never seen the ELF at other shops… that’s why I drove from Colorado to visit their factory in North Carolina :)
ReplyCourt Rye
11 years agoYeah, the standard range is a bit less than traditional electric bikes with similar battery configurations but the ELF is also much heavier (150 pounds). They sell spare packs and larger battery versions you can definitely reach your destination, even if you have to carry a couple extra ;)
ReplyKelly Smith
10 years agoI’m legally blind and see this as a good solution to some of my problems with transportation. Problem is, I live in Canada. Has anyone got info on details involved with importing one to Battleford Saskatchewan? Kelly Smith
ReplyCourt Rye
10 years agoHi Kelly, I can see how an ELF would help you get around in a way that’s stable and enjoyable. Organic Transit has shipped them internationally to Europe so I’m sure they could also do Canada and it would likely be cheaper. This is a direct quote from their website frequently asked questions page: “We have shipped vehicles to Australia, UK and the EU but it’s not simple. The freight is costly and takes a while but we’re willing to work with you. Our plans are to be building ELFs in all regions where they’re being sold.” I think if you contact them directly you’ll be able to get a price quote and time estimate. Their phone number is (919) 908-1599 and they are located in Durham North Carolina.
ReplyTim Hellsten
8 years agoHey Kelly, I actually got a quote from Organic Transit and after being on the OT ELF owners facebook page and asking too many questions I got a real snippy response from the owner of OT then promptly got the boot from the FB page. I have been speaking to the owner Kevin Murray of http://www.better.bike quite the nice fellow they have a product that is much like the ELF they are in kickstarter now just like the ELF started their base price will be $5500.00 USD I am in Winnipeg Manitoba (next to you) and am as well a CNIB member :)
I prefer the Better Bike PEBL to the elf for many reasons. Is a fully enclosed pedal / electric bike (has a floor and doors standard equip), has a back seat for an adult passenger or 2 kids or a few dogs :) can take up to 4 batteries without you having to modify the unit (has no solar panel but you can get one from them) not a big deal for me has reverse so you can back up body is made of Hemp composite so is better for the environment more flexible body apparently. Anywho looks exciting, check out their kickstarter here, thanks
ReplyCourt Rye
8 years agoCool, I’ve been in touch with these guys for a while, looks like a neat concept! I hope to review it someday :)
jerry niklas
10 years agoWhere can I go to buy an Organic Transit ELF if I live in Canada?
ReplyCourt Rye
10 years agoHi Jerry, I was checking out the FAQ page on their website here and found one question about shipping internationally which was answered as “We have shipped vehicles to Australia, Germany and the Netherlands, but it’s not simple. Our plans are to build ELFs in all regions where they’re being sold.”
So my guess is that they’d also ship to Canada, it’s a lot closer than Europe. You could also probably visit the US and then buy one and drive it across the boarder (like put it in a truck or something). I wish I could help more but the best course of action to figure this out would be to contact them here or call (919) 908-1599. I’d love to hear what you find out!
ReplyMargaret smith
10 years agoCan I buy the ELF in England?
ReplyCourt Rye
10 years agoGreat question Margaret, according to their website FAQ page “We have shipped vehicles to Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, but it’s not simple. Our plans are to build ELFs in all regions where they’re being sold.” so I guess that’s a yes but maybe it costs extra? This is such a cool vehicle, hopefully they will be making them in Europe sometime soon as well as America :)
ReplyGolden Boy
10 years agoI am in Golden BC Canada and am intrigued by the ELF. I am looking for stability on icy roads, luggage, electric assist for a commute of a few km’s primarily in the winter.
ICBC /motor vehicle act in this province states in part: “…motor assisted bicycles (two or three wheels) …having electric motor of 500W or less….have working pedals…”
So the 600W ELF motor would be an issue for British Columbians and would probably push you into the “limited speed motorcycle” classification which is limited to 1.5kW but also must be registered.
ReplyCourt Rye
10 years agoGood thoughts, it’s interesting to see how the laws in different locations dictate how light electric vehicles can be used. Is it difficult or expensive to register the “limited speed motorcycles” in BC?
ReplyWilliam White
9 years agoI’ve got a 2014 Organic Transit ELF for sale in Salt Lake City, Utah. I bought it thinking I could use it as an ebike, however it exceeds the weight limit for eBikes.
ReplyCourt Rye
9 years agoInteresting, I didn’t realize there was a weight limit for eBikes? Do you mean that it’s too large to put on a bus or transport in other ways that traditional cycles are okay with? In any case, feel free to list it on the forums “For Sale” section.
ReplyLucas Earl
9 years agoHey William, I live in SLC and I’m looking at buying an elf. Are you still looking to sell? -Lucas
ReplyWilliam White
9 years agoCourt, I know of at least two states that have weight limits for ebikes, Utah and Pennsylvania. On the put it on buses or trains issue I know others who have tried-despite there obviously not being any room for them. In addition at 160 plus pounds the ELFs are not something you just pick up and move onto a bus. You’d need specialized ramps and hold downs. On the For Sale issue: Thanks but I was more or less “feeling the waters,” as it were. They don’t seem to have any great resale value and the demand for new ones has been scant: 3 years and only around 500 units. That said mine is going to get tricked out with a DaVinci twin motor, internal roll cage, sturdier side trays, cargo bins, a lower and more reclined seat and a repositioning of the front bottom bracket. Love the concept but the ELFs don’t seem to be holding up as well as the company would of liked. To their credit Organic Transit is addressing these and other issues on their new models, however in many respects the first owners, like myself, were more or less Guinea Pigs for their product development. Reading the cons again I was reminded just how high the seat is in my ELF-21 inches, whereas may recumbents are only 9 inches. They’re so high I’ve managed to tip mine a few times while “testing” them out.
ReplyCourt Rye
9 years agoThanks for the real world ride report William… and thanks for being an early adopter. There’s something special and interesting about the Organic Transit ELF and I’m glad they are refining the design. It’s not perfect for many situations but there are a few where it really dazzles… the whole solar charging thing, stability, cargo hauling. I’m glad the list of cons jogged your memories and I appreciate you speaking up with your own little list :)
Reply9 years ago
I tipped mine after I had my 150 pound son ride on the rear deck while riding too fast uphill. I just drilled a hole above the broken part of the mirror, and I’m back in business. This thing has been 100% trouble free here in Minnesota in below zero weather, even in the snow while carrying two 7 year old behind me. I’m absolutely astounded as to the toughness of it over washboard roads, through salt, over curbs, snow. Yeah, you can flip it if you try, but it has been a real grocery getting work horse, for me. I was a little snake bit after that rollover with my son, but neither of us were hurt, as it basically a large helmet with wheels. It doesn’t hurt that I save about $100 per month on car insurance, as this is now our second car. I bought it from a extremely nice guy in Minneapolis who needed the garage space for his wife’s car, for $2,500. As I really need exercise and fresh air, this was one of the best investments I have ever made. I still look forward to riding it, and so does my daughter. Whatever you do, don’t have anyone ride on the rear deck, just push the seat all the way back and put them behind you. I would also advise, if you want to go normal speed on ice, buy some studded tires.
Considering the money you can save on insurance and the health “capital” you’ll accumulate riding it, even at full retail price, this is a very practical investment. The most boring errands become fun. Yes, some complain about it’s size, but I defer to all traffic on roads and trails, as it is pretty sure footed, even in dirt, sand, and snow on the sides of roads. It’s not too wide, otherwise it would tip over. It’s not too heavy, it needs a frame, albeit, aluminum, to carry hundreds of pounds of cargo and people. It’s not too high, that’s so people can see you, and it makes access easier.
Jeremy Leveque
9 years agoJust got my ELF in Tacoma WA. It is amazing. Got to take an extensive test ride months before my purchase and was blown away. Ridden in heavy Seattle city traffic, I felt safe and very visible. Car drivers (cagers) were extremely impressed and very respectful to it still being a bicycle. Performance Bike in Seattle has two available for test rides. I talked to their main shop guy a couple of weeks ago and asked him, “after all of the shapes and sizes of people that have come in and taken your ELFs for a hundred+ test rides, have there been any stress fractures in the frame or body leading to mechanical failure?” His response was a resounding no. That they are extremely well made. Organic Transit is WAYY back ordered right now due to the popularity of the ELF. Each one is custom made to order and takes upwards of six days. This product will spawn a revolution in transportation.
ReplyCourt Rye
9 years agoAwesome! Thanks for sharing your experience (and the feedback that Performance Bikes had). I’ll try to swing through there and check out the ELF’s myself, maybe update the review :D
ReplyDanica
9 years agoHi, Jeremy, I’m looking at getting an ELF to drive around Seattle. How have you found the ELF performs on hills?
Replywc holl
8 years agoHow jerky is the ride on a poor road or street I see no springs on said vehicle It might just shake you to pieces with pot holes and railroad tracks.
Replylucyb
9 years agoHi Jeremy, I think you drove by me in your red elf today in Tacoma near 12th and Orchard. I tried to turn around to catch you, but you were gone. I’d love to take a look at your elf and hear all about it. I’m thinking of getting one as well. Are you out and about where I could see your elf sometime. Thanks
ReplyCourt Rye
9 years agoAwesome! I hope you two connect in real life! I’ve made a few friends through the website and it’s always fun to connect and go for a ride. Be safe :D
ReplyLuiz Victor Lima
9 years agoMoro no Brasil. Gostaria de saber qual o comprimento e a Largura do e Bike (I live in Brazil. I wonder what the length and width and Bike)
ReplyCourt Rye
9 years agoOi Luiz ! De acordo com a Transit orgânicos, as dimensões ELF são os seguintes: ” As dimensões exatas variam dependendo exatamente como um especial ELF é equipado , mas as dimensões são aproximadamente 9 ” ( 2.7432 metros ) de comprimento x 4’0.25 “( 1.2192 metros ) de largura x 5 ” 1″ ( 1.524 metros) de altura. O ELF pode caber confortavelmente na maioria das ciclovias . ” (Hi Luiz! According to Organic Transit, the ELF dimensions are as follows: “Exact dimensions vary depending on exactly how a particular ELF is outfitted, but the dimensions are roughly 9′ (2.7432 meters) long x 4’0.25″ (1.2192 meters) wide x 5’1″ (1.524 meters) tall. The ELF can comfortably fit in most bike lanes.”) you can learn more from the FAQ page on their website.
ReplyThane
9 years agoCourt – Would you consider doing a review of the Virtue Pedalist enclosed tricycle, and perhaps comparing its advantages / disadvantages to the Elf?
ReplyCourt Rye
9 years agoHi Thane! That bike has been stuck in my mind for over a year and I was in touch with a PR person to do a review but they went silent and I thought I heard that maybe they weren’t going to go forward with production. From what I can tell, the Organic Transit company is growing and offers better support (and more choices). I can’t say much more without actually trying the Virtue Pedalist but it does look cool :D
ReplyThane
9 years agoHi Court, FYI: Apparently, the Virtue Pedalists are being produced now on a “made-to-order” basis, and are available to test ride in San Diego.
Adam
9 years agoOk I have 2 questions for someone who owns an elf.
- on most electric bikes you can select the amount of peddel assist that you get. Can you do that with the elf as well?
- is it worth getting the cycle analyst? If you don’t is the elf set up with CD-P so that you can easily add one later? They sale their for 299 and you can buy after market for 150.
ReplyCourt Rye
9 years agoHi Adam! I haven’t test ridden the ELF for a while but I’ll try to answer some of your questions based on what I saw at their website, what they have told me and what I retain from memory. I believe the Organic Transit ELF electric bikes only offers a trigger throttle mode for power on demand so there is no cadence sensing or torque sensing pedal assist and therefore no levels to choose from. As far as adding a Cycle Analyst later I was told that you can add one later but it may take some effort (an hour and a half to install). Some things I was told that you cannot install later are floorboards, a front parcel tray dashboard or switching from a one seater to a two seater (and vice versa).
ReplyAlejandro
8 years agoHi! I’ll love to know if i can buy it in argentina. Thanks!
ReplyCourt Rye
8 years agoUnfortunately I’m not sure on that Alejandro! I’d suggest reaching out to them directly through their website. I hear they are expanding Internationally and perhaps one could be shipped?
ReplyAlejandro
8 years agoOk! I’ll do it. Thanks!! :)
leonardo gonzalez
8 years agoquisiera mas información de orgánica de transito elf y si hay alguna sucursal cerca del la ciudad de medico y el costo que aparece en la información es el real y algún numero telefónico para poder ponerme en contacto o coreo electrónico
ReplyCourt Rye
8 years agoHi Leonardo! I’m not sure on some of your questions, whether they will ship to your country or not. You can find the contact information for Organic Transit at http://organictransit.com/contact-us/ including a phone number :)
ReplyArvid Noreen
8 years agoAre there any door options? Doors would allow me to use it all year round.
ReplyCourt Rye
8 years agoHey Arvid! I believe there are but it’s something many customers pass on because it makes the ride noisier and doesn’t let you hear or see outside as well. I asked the founder about this and he said people usually wear jackets, hats and gloves and that the windshield and roof help reduce the cold and wet a lot more than people usually expect. He and I spoke about this quite a while back so I can’t be certain that they still offer the doors, would be worth reaching out to them to check and I’d love to hear what they say and whether you move forward :D
ReplyMarty Robinowich
8 years agoHalf doors are available as an option from Organic Transit, but an enterprising ELF owner in Minnesota (tonkatronix.com) devised zip up/roll up full coverage industrial-grade “Side Shields”. They keep me dry in rainy and windy conditions as well as keeping me warmer when we get occasional cold weather in Alabama. I’ve owned my ELF for over 3 years, and I ride it like a maniac nearly every day. In fact, my ELF is approaching the 40K miles mark! I sold my car and haven’t replaced it, as my ELF meets all me local transportation and toting needs.
ReplyCourt Rye
8 years agoCool! Sounds like you’re getting the full use out of it Marty :D thanks for sharing the link to Tonkatronix too, how much do they sell the zip up windows for? I visited the website but didn’t see them there. How did you buy them?
8 years ago
In warmer weather I ride an electric Yuba Spicy Curry around the country side. I am totally off grid. I carry a solar panel, snall frdig, etc. I am now thinking about the ELF having only recently learned of it. I am 80 and do enjoy some comforts while camping off grid. I believe that the ELF might be a lot more stable carrying the gerar that I do. Also more comfortable while riding 8-10 hours a day in all kinds of weather. II carry 200 Ws solar and 2 large capicitay batteries., plus camping gear, ect. I still manage to stay under the 350-400 lb weight. I want to do more rescarch on the ELF.
ReplyCourt Rye
8 years agoThat sounds awesome! What you’re doing is amazing, please share more when you get a chance, maybe post some pictures and stories in the EBR forums here. Safe travels, reach out anytime :)
ReplyMarty Robinowich
8 years agoI took delivery of my v.1.0 ELF in early February, 2014. As Organic Transit continued to refine and improve their design, I upgraded my ELF several times to take advantage of better reliability and performance these upgrades provided. They included replacing the original forward tilting seat with a track-mounted sliding seat, replacing the original aluminum non-suspended kingpins with steel kingpins fitted with an “elastomeric” suspension, replacing the original internally geared electric motor with a gearless version, replacing the original Chinese-made solar panel with a more robust Taiwanese unit, and (most importantly) replacing the original rear-hub mounted NuVinci 360 with a mid-drive NuVinci 380 and adding the rear disk brake. I ride my ELF nearly every day, and it is now approaching the 40K miles mark. I sold my car (along with all its associated expenses), and have experienced vastly improved health as a direct result of all the exercise I get running my everyday errands and tooling around the metro area. I do have some longer inter-city jaunts planned for later this year.
Because I ride my ELF so much (and very hard) in exceptionally hilly terrain, I have certainly broken and worn out several components. I found OT was very helpful in getting me back on the road again, and have also developed relationships with a few local bike shops when I require specialized parts, tools or jigs to make repairs. Additionally, many ELF owners are members of a closed Facebook group, and we share tips, information and ELF stories on a regular basis. I guess I should point out that I am a recently retired engineer who loves to tinker and get into the guts of my ELF on a regular basis. I have also made several other modifications to my ELF which seem to make it more reliable and more pleasant to ride.
ReplyCourt Rye
8 years agoI enjoyed reading your comment Marty! Thanks for outlining the upgrades you’ve made and mentioning the Facebook group. I have an open forum where you can post images and stuff, I’m sure others would love to see and hear about your upgrades. I love that Organic Transit has been there for you to make the product last. Maybe they’re even learning new ideas from your mods :D
Reply8 years ago
April 2017 up date – Base price on the ELF is now $8,495 for either the Solo or 2FR. The two tone paint option takes it up to $9,399.95
ReplyCourt Rye
8 years agoNice, thanks for the update! I’ve got to get back out and test ride more of the ELF models, such a cool concept :D
Replydale thomas
7 years agoWould like more info on where can I see one and price have an ice but getting older this may be the one.
ReplyCourt Rye
7 years agoHi Dale! You can get more info on dealers, pricing, and test rides at their official website here. My review here is a bit old but I still hope it helped you and agree that the Organic Transit ELF is unique… very stable, utilitarian, and fun! I hope you get a chance to try it and welcome further comments :)
ReplyAshvinbhai Rajabhai Patel
7 years agoi need a org transit ELF bicycle in ahmedbad dealer please send us
ReplyCourt Rye
7 years agoWhere are you based? I think the only way to get one of these or become a dealer is to connect directly with Organic Transit through their official website here. Hope this helps!
Replygovind
6 years agoI need frame construction details and specification of these vehicles.
ReplyCourt
6 years agoHi Govind! I haven’t worked with the Organic Transit folks for years but hope to review their products again sometime soon. In which case, I’ll go deeper into frame construction as you’ve requested. I believe they use a custom aluminum alloy frame with plastic walls.
ReplyElmar Bertschinger
5 years agoHi, does anyone know where can I buy it in Switzerland? Thanks
ReplyCourt
5 years agoHi Elmar! Great question, I’m not sure whether they ship internationally or have resellers in Europe, but here’s the contact information so you can ask. You could also ask in the Organic Transit ebike forums here :)
Reply