2013 Pedego Classic Comfort Cruiser Review

Pedego Classic Cruiser Electric Bike Review 1
Built In Rack Pedego Ebike
Pedego Electric Bike Hub Lock
Classic Comfort Cruiser Battery Key
Classic Cruiser Electric Throttle Shifter
Classic Cruiser Electric Bike
Classic Cruiser Front Disc Brake
Pedego Classic Cruiser Kickstand
High Step Classic Cruiser Pedego
Pedego Classic Cruiser Electric Bike Review 1
Built In Rack Pedego Ebike
Pedego Electric Bike Hub Lock
Classic Comfort Cruiser Battery Key
Classic Cruiser Electric Throttle Shifter
Classic Cruiser Electric Bike
Classic Cruiser Front Disc Brake
Pedego Classic Cruiser Kickstand
High Step Classic Cruiser Pedego

Summary

  • Solid, durable and extremely quiet to ride due to gearless rear hub motor
  • Casual design looks like a laid back cruiser and comes in many fun color choices
  • No pedal assist but the throttle works well and keeps this bike simple to operate
  • High end Lithium-ion battery is light weight and designed to go far, well protected in an aluminum case

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

Pedego

Model:

Classic Comfort Cruiser

Price:

$1,995 USD

Body Position:

Upright Relaxed

Suggested Use:

Neighborhood, Urban

Electric Bike Class:

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

Warranty:

1 Year Components, 3 Year Battery

Availability:

United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Europe

Model Year:

2013

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

59 lbs (26.76 kg)

Frame Types:

High-Step, Step-Thru

Gearing Details:

6 Speed 1x6 Shimano

Shifter Details:

Shimano Thumb Shifter

Pedals:

Aluminum Alloy Platform

Handlebar:

Cruiser

Grips:

Padded Comfort

Saddle:

Comfort

Tire Brand:

Schwalbe Balloon, 26"

Wheel Sizes:

26 in (66.04cm)

Accessories:

Bell, Chain guard

Electronic Details

Motor Type:

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

Motor Nominal Output:

500 watts

Battery Voltage:

36 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

10 ah (Optional 15 ah for $295)

Battery Watt Hours:

360 wh

Charge Time:

4 hours

Estimated Min Range:

15 miles (24 km)

Estimated Max Range:

30 miles (48 km)

Display Type:

Backlit LCD

Drive Mode:

Twist Throttle

Top Speed:

20 mph (32 kph)


Written Review

This review is for the older Classic Comfort Cruiser from Pedego. In 2014 a new model was released with improved rear rack design and battery pack. The older model may still be available for a discount at some retailers or as a used bike and this review may help you decide whether to go for it or consider the updates.

The Pedego Classic and Step-through Cruisers are loads of fun. Plain and simple. This bike was designed from the ground up to be strong, quiet and durable. It defines simplicity and quality by integrating wires, battery mount and motor in a way that reduces the chance of parts getting broken or stolen. This makes it convenient to ride and park just about anywhere. It’s one of the first bikes Pedego built when they launched in 2009 and has been refined over the years, becoming a leader in the space.

The 500 watt hub motor driving this bike is brushless and gearless making it super smooth and quiet. It provides good power for hills and heavier loads, but not quite as much as if it were geared. Gearless motors produce less friction when coasting and have fewer parts to wear out over time. Right next to the motor is a drum brake (the front of the bike has a disc brake) and a hub lock where you can use a key to immobilize the bike, just remember to unlock it before you try to ride away or it could damage the hub!

One thing this bike does not offer is pedal assist meaning you will constantly have to twist the throttle to get power. While this may seem like a negative when compared with other electric bikes that have both such as the Pedego City Commuter, it actually makes the system a lot simpler to ride and less prone to damage and failure.

Riding is almost thoughtless, as soon as you twist the throttle it goes. That’s it. It’s a great design for bike rental companies or less tech savvy users who just want to have fun because there’s less to get in the way. I really love the twist throttle design because it feels more like a scooter and makes riding a lot less complicated in stop and go situations.

In terms of battery power, this bike relies on a 36 volt, 10 amp hour Lithium-ion pack secured inside a locking aluminum cube. In laymans terms that equates to good power, good range and durable! If you’re a larger rider or just looking for something with more power you can upgrade to the Interceptor model and get a 48 volt battery pack on basically the same frame. I recommend this option for riders who weigh in excess of 180 pounds.

By positioning both the motor and battery pack towards the rear end of the bike, Pedego has made it easy to steer but a bit more hazardous when turning. The front wheel of this bike is more prone to sliding out because less weight is pushing down on it. This is especially true on wet surfaces so be careful! Also, carrying the bike up stairs and lifting it to get through narrow passage ways can be tough because the rear is so heavy. It can be a pain to deal with at times but the battery pack is removable and that helps a lot.

One of my favorite parts about this bike design is the design itself. Not because I’m a huge fan of the beach cruiser look… in fact I am not! I prefer the thin fast lines of a road bike but one thing you miss with that style is an upright ergonomic position. The bottom bracket (where the pedals go through the frame) on the Cruiser is actually positioned further forward which puts your feet more forward than down. This makes the bike feel more natural, like sitting in a chair or riding on a motorcycle, and keeps the rider lower to the ground. The handlebars compliment this position by being very long and swept back. This design combination provides some shock absorption when going over bumps, reducing neck and back strain because you don’t have to bend over to steer or support your weight with your forearms and wrists. This is especially good when you’re riding with a backpack.

Rider positioning is really a huge point here, while other bikes integrate front shocks to smooth out the ride, the handlebars and larger tires of the Pedego Cruiser bikes accomplish almost the same thing. The tires themselves are made by Schwalbe, come kevlar lined and are pre-Slimed helping them to endure many miles while avoiding flats. For even more comfortable rides you can upgrade the tires to even larger “balloon” edition. The seat ties all of this together by offering a large soft surface that is sprung with rubber bumpers. All in all, this is one of the most comfortable bikes out there, as long as you’re riding it and not trying to carry it up stairs ;)

The first time I saw the Pedego Comfort Cruiser I was thinking, wow, that’s pretty expensive and it looks so heavy! But then I rode it around for an entire afternoon, all over the city on bike paths and city streets, sidewalks and through grass. It even fell over once when I was taking pictures but nothing got messed up! It really won me over with ride quality and and I learned to appreciate the way everything was welded together because it didn’t make a lot of noise going over bumps. I also didn’t look goofy or different riding it as I sort of thought I might at first. In fact, if you add a set of pannier bags on the back it almost looks like a regular bike! Even the seat and handlebars, that at first put me off, turned out to be hugely satisfying and comfortable over the long distances.

After a full afternoon of cruising around town with this bike I still had more than half of my battery left. I also felt very refreshed and not sore or stiff. Keep in mind, this is a heavily used rental bike we’re talking about and it still performed very well. The wide handlebars and weight make it tricky to move but in terms of ride quality and durability this bike is a clear winner. The Pedego Comfort cruiser just feels good and that takes the focus from riding and puts it onto enjoying the ride.

Pros:

  • Solid, integrated design is tough and smooth
  • High end Avid disc brake on the front wheel provides good stopping power when combined with the rear drum brake
  • Lithium ion battery is light, provides great range and lasts years before degrading, ~1,500+ charge cycles
  • Ultra tough Schwalbe tires are kevlar-lined and pre-slimed to avoid flats but also absorb bumps well
  • Integrated chain cover protects pants but can get bent easily if stepped on
  • Wonderful selection of colors to personalize bike
  • Powerful 500w motor easily climbs hills and provides good torque, also provides great range
  • Brushless motor lasts longer, quieter when coasting
  • 36 bolt battery offers great power and distance, upgrade to the Pedego Interceptor for more power with a 48v pack
  • Smooth ride provided through a combination of larger tires, soft sprung seat and large handlebars
  • Front wires are well organized, protected, and integrated into the bicycle frame to stay out of the way
  • Battery locks to bike for security, won’t start without key
  • Built in hub-lock secures rear wheel and motor, just remember to unlock before riding away as it can damage the bike

Cons:

  • no integrated lights or computer
  • No pedal assist mode on this bike, throttle only
  • Looks like a cruiser bike, may not appeal to road bike enthusiasts
  • Wide and tall handlebars can catch on doors or gates, also harder to store and transport
  • Chain protector gets bent easily if stepped on
  • Sturdy double sided kickstand holds bike but can be a bit wobbly, adjustable length on one side
  • On bigger bumps the kickstand can bounce down a bit since it is so large
  • Rear brake is a drum brake that doesn’t offer quite as much stopping power as the front disc brake
  • Rear rack mostly taken up by battery, larger tubing makes panniers harder to attach, also no side guard for rear wheel when using panniers
  • Key has to be kept in when riding the bike, easier to forget or damage
  • No water bottle mount, have to use a velcro add-on or bar adapter
  • Doesn’t include fenders but you can add them for $50 in matching color, generally speaking the rear rack keeps your back dry even without fenders

Resources:

More Pedego Reviews

Pedego Element Review

  • MSRP: $1,495
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020, 2021

A compact fat tire electric bike designed around a sturdy but approachable mid-step frame. With its low stand-over height and potential for low minimum saddle height, this is one of the few ebikes that works well for petite riders and even kids! The highly adjustable top-speed settings for pedal assist and throttle add safety or extend range by reducing power consumption. Optional aluminum alloy fenders, rear rack, headlight, and bags add utility.. Six beautiful colors allow for personalization if friends, partners, or family members each buy an…...

Pedego Avenue Review

  • MSRP: $1,995
  • MODEL YEAR: 2022

An efficient city style electric bike available in 17" step-thru and 19" high-step frames. Pedego is known for their fun styles, and the Avenue is available in six premium colors with frame, fork, and rims matching! Intuitive display panel with USB charging port built in.. The removable downtube-integrated battery is nearly hidden, and and can be charged on or off…...

Pedego Boomerang Review

  • MSRP: $2,995
  • MODEL YEAR: 2021

Possibly the lowest low-step mass market electric bicycle ever created! The standover height is just 8" (20.3cm) off the ground, making it extremely easy to mount and stabilize. Available in two frame sizes with 24" or 26" wheels respectively, five beautiful colors that span the fork, rear rack, and chain cover, and two battery pack sizes (480wh or 720wh).. Premium Schwalbe puncture resistant balloon tires with reflective sidewall stripes pair nicely with the Satori…...

Pedego Comfort Cruiser Review

  • MSRP: $1,995
  • MODEL YEAR: 2021

One of the original, most proven, cruiser style electric bikes. With a lower price point, larger dealer network, and the addition of pedal assist in recent years... this ebike stands out from the crowd. Available in two frame styles (step-thru and high-step) two wheel sizes (24" and 26") and three colors (Coral, Blue, or Red).. Beautiful aesthetic with premium paint on the frame, fork, chain cover, and even the rims!…...

Pedego Conveyor Review

  • MSRP: $4,995
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

The Conveyor takes smoothness to another level by using a Brose S mid-drive motor with internal Gates Carbon belts driving it, and external mechanical belt drivetrain, and a Shimano internally geared shifting hub, really this is top-shelf if you are looking for the most smooth bike out there. Features 2.4” wide high volume efficient tires, fenders with mud-flaps, comfortable pedals with grip tape,…...

Pedego City Commuter Mid Drive Review

  • MSRP: $2,995
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A powerful mid-drive powered city style electric bike with cruiser styling, the stem offers adjustable height and angle for different body positions and Pedego sells three frame sizes. The smallest frame size offers 26-inch wheels vs. 28" which brings it closer to the…...

Pedego Elevate Review

  • MSRP: $5,495
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A powerful, well-balanced, trail or all-mountain style electric bike with 140 mm dual air suspension, available from one of the largest ebike dealer networks in the world with a great warranty and two sizes. This is the first Class 1 pedal assist only electric bike from Pedego, the Shimano…...

Pedego City Commuter Black Edition Review

  • MSRP: $3,795
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A tricked-out city bike with some cruiser styling and lots of comfort features, adjustable air suspension fork, adjustable seat post shock, adjustable stem, and swept-back handlebar. Everything is black on this ebike, even the suspension stanchions! this helps the motor, battery,…...

Pedego 24″ Trail Tracker Review

  • MSRP: $2,895
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

One of the only 24" sized fat e-bikes I have ever seen, it's easier to approach, stand over, and handle for short to mid-sized riders, Pedego also offers a 20" fat model for kids. Large comfortable tires that work well on sand or snow when deflated to 5-8 PSI,…...

Pedego Platinum Interceptor Review

  • MSRP: $3,795
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A premium cruiser style electric bike with upgraded suspension fork, suspension seat post, integrated LED lights, a sturdy rack and hydraulic disc brakes. Powerful 500 to 1,000+ watt hub motor from Dapu with high-torque rating and durable protected…...

Pedego Trike Review

  • MSRP: $2,995
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A custom designed electric trike with large plastic cargo bin at the back, three-speed internally geared hub can be shifted at standstill and is more durable than a traditional derailleur. Two mechanical disc brakes provide good stopping power, max speed limited to 7 mph in…...

Pedego 20″ Trail Tracker Review

  • MSRP: $2,495
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A sturdily built, lower speed electric bike with seven gears and throttle-only operation designed primarily for kids and youth but also a good fit for short riders. Max weight of 350 lbs, bosses in the rear for adding a rack and hauling…...

Pedego Latch Review

  • MSRP: $2,595
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

A sturdy folding electric bike with a full-sized feel, the extra long seat post and telescoping stem fit a wider range of body types than most folders I've tested. Premium drivetrain features and accessories including a Gates belt drive, Shimano Nexus internally geared hub,…...

Pedego Trail Tracker Review

  • MSRP: $3,295
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

Fined fat tire electricbike with balanced down tube battery and purpose-built "extrawide" hub motor for improved drive train operation and torque. Nice LCD display panel with integrated buttons and swivel, includes a USB port for charging…...

Pedego Ridge Rider Review

  • MSRP: $3,395
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

A delightfully capable and refined 27.5" hardtail electric mountain bike with powerful 500 watt motor and 48 volt battery pack. Nice upgrades on the adjustable air fork with lockout, 15 mm thru-axle, locking grips, hydraulic…...

Pedego 24″ Step-Thru Interceptor Review

  • MSRP: $2,995
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A smaller version of the Interceptor that's easier to mount, it offers great power thanks to its smaller wheels paired with a 500 watt geared hub motor and 48 volt battery. Offers twist throttle and five levels of assist for increased range, throttle override puts you…...

Pedego Step-Thru Comfort Cruiser Review

  • MSRP: $2,295
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A stripped down comfort cruiser with easy-mount step-thru frame, throttle on demand only, optional fenders, multiple color choices and multiple battery size options from 36v 10ah up to 48v 15ah. Locking removable battery pack is protected in the color-matched rear rack, mechanical disc brakes are…...

Pedego Classic Interceptor Review

  • MSRP: $2,995
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A sturdy, powerful cruiser style electric bike with large 500 watt geared motor and 48 volt Lithium-ion battery. Balloon tires, comfort saddle, suspension seat post and oversized handlebars create a relaxed upright ride...

2015 Pedego Trail Tracker Review

  • MSRP: $2,995
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A fat style ebike with zippy 500 watt geared motor and powerful 48 battery (available in 10ah or 15ah for extended range). Four fun color options, integrated headlight, pedal assist and throttle mode, quality mechanical disc brakes...

Pedego City Commuter Review

  • MSRP: $2,595
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A sturdy and powerful electric bike that's a bit more active than the cruisers (more forward body position, narrower handlebars) and is available in several frame sizes for improved fit. Lots of great extras including full length aluminum fenders, chain guard, puncture resistant tires with…...

Pedego Stretch Review

  • MSRP: $3,495
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A stylish and comfortable cruiser style electric cargo bike with removable tubing supports that extend the carrying platform or double as a back rest and running boards to accommodate a second rider. Offers two battery options for extended range and two drive modes including pedal assist (1-5)…...

2015 Pedego Boomerang Review

  • MSRP: $2,495
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

One of the easiest electric bikes to mount with extra low step-thru design, frame stiffness reduced as a result. Powerful 500 watt geared motor is quiet to operate and blends in well with cassette…...

Pedego Classic Comfort Cruiser Review

  • MSRP: $2,095
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Iconic cruiser style frame is sturdy, provides a relaxed seating position and comes in multiple colors. Powerful 500 watt direct drive (gearless) rear hub motor is durable, fast and relatively quiet...

Pedego 24″ Step-Thru Comfort Cruiser Review

  • MSRP: $2,095
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

A smaller step-through electric bike with 24" wheels for riders who are petite. Very powerful for its size, uses a 500 watt direct drive hub motor with three…...

Pedego Tandem Cruiser Review

  • MSRP: $2,795
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

One of the only purpose-built electric bikes that is setup to be a tandem for two adult riders. Sturdy frame, fun classic design, reliable drive system with six speeds, great support and warranty...

2014 Pedego Step-Thru Comfort Cruiser Review

  • MSRP: $2,095
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Sturdy cruiser style electric bike with simple twist throttle operation and upgradable battery pack. Large tires, swept back handlebars, plush seat and padded grips dampen vibration to smooth out…...

Pedego Interceptor Review

  • MSRP: $2,895
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Great power for acceleration, climbing or moving heavier riders with a 500 watt geared rear hub motor and 48 volt Lithium-ion battery combination. Offers twist throttle and five levels of pedal assist for increased range, removable battery for…...

2013 Pedego Trail Tracker Review

  • MSRP: $2,975
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013, 2014

Off-road design with 4" wide tires, increased contact patch enables the bike to ride on sand, snow and other rugged terrain, larger tires also provide cushion for improved riding comfort. Ultra powerful 600 watt geared motor and 48 volt battery pack for improved torque and…...

2014 Pedego Trike Review

  • MSRP: $2,895
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013, 2014

Stable three wheel design with battery, motor and controller mounted low under the cargo bin. No pedal assist option with this bike but the twist throttle is intuitive to use…...

2013 Pedego Interceptor Review

  • MSRP: $2,495
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013

Powerful combination of 500w motor and 48v Lithium battery. Durable and proven frame is borrowed from the Pedego Comfort Cruiser...

2013 Pedego Tandem Cruiser Review

  • MSRP: $2,675
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013

One of the only tandem style electric bikes available anywhere, large 500 watt motor offers good power. Built on the time tested, super simple, Pedego Cruiser cantilever style aluminum alloy frame...

2013 Pedego City Commuter Review

  • MSRP: $2,495
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014, 2015

Classic upright commuter frame is quiet, sturdy and functional with welded rear rack. Integrated seat post shock, lights, bell, and computer with clean wire management...


Comments (2) YouTube Comments

Arturo aguilar
1 year ago

I bought this bike about 4 years ago I love everything about. Recently the battery started to spark a lot when unplugging and plugging it in. It’s the silver metal case one. Any recommendations on what to do thank you.

  Reply
Court
12 months ago

Hi Arturo! I am not an expert on this… but it sounds like the electricity is arcing. I did some quick research and there may be a product you can use to resolve this and keep the electrical contacts from getting rusty or dirty. This is what I found from a Google search: NO-OX-ID “A-SPECIAL Electrical Grade” is the electrical contact grease of choice for new electrical installations and maintenance. NO-OX-ID electrical contact lubricant (electrical contact grease) is an electrically conductive grease that keeps metals free from rust and corrosion.

  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.