2014 Pedego Step-Thru Comfort Cruiser Review

Pedego Step Thru Comfort Cruiser Electric Bike Review 1
Pedego Step Thru Comfort Cruiser
Pedego Step Thru Comfort Cruiser Direct Drive Motor
Pedego Step Thru Comfort Cruiser Removable Battery Pack
Pedego Step Thru Comfort Cruiser Twist Throttle
Pedego Step Thru Comfort Cruiser Front Disc Brake
Pedego Step Thru Comfort Cruiser Electric Bike Review 1
Pedego Step Thru Comfort Cruiser
Pedego Step Thru Comfort Cruiser Direct Drive Motor
Pedego Step Thru Comfort Cruiser Removable Battery Pack
Pedego Step Thru Comfort Cruiser Twist Throttle
Pedego Step Thru Comfort Cruiser Front Disc Brake

Summary

  • 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 the ride
  • Powerful 500 watt direct drive motor is smooth, quiet and very durable
  • Throttle only (no pedal assist), uses simplified LED control panel versus LCD, rear heavy design

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

Pedego

Model:

Step-Thru Comfort Cruiser

Price:

$2,095 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:

2014

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

59 lbs (26.76 kg)

Battery Weight:

8 lbs (3.62 kg) (Depending on Battery Size)

Motor Weight:

8 lbs (3.62 kg)

Frame Material:

6061 Aluminum Alloy

Frame Sizes:

17 in (43.18 cm)

Geometry Measurements:

(Wheelbase 46 in)

Frame Types:

Step-Thru

Frame Colors:

Black, Coral, Light Blue, Navy Blue, Olive Green, Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, White, Yellow

Attachment Points:

Bottle Cage Bosses on Downtube, Welded Rear Rack with Spring Latch

Gearing Details:

6 Speed 1x6 Shimano

Shifter Details:

Shimano SIS Index

Pedals:

Aluminum Alloy Platform

Stem:

Fixed Promax

Handlebar:

28" Cruiser

Brake Details:

Avid BB7 Mechanical Disc Front with 160 mm Rotor, Dia-Compe Band Rear, Tektro Levers with Electronic Cutoff

Grips:

Padded

Saddle:

Comfort

Tire Brand:

Kenda K-RAD Urban, 26" x 2.3"

Wheel Sizes:

26 in (66.04cm)

Tire Details:

White Wall for Improved Visibility

Tube Details:

Pre-Slimed

Accessories:

Aluminum Alloy Chain Guard, Bell Integrated in Left Brake Lever, Rear Hub Lock, Single-Side Kickstand, Rear LED Light Built Into Battery, Optional Metal Fenders, Optional Kevlar-Lined Balloon Tires

Other:

Removable Battery Pack (Charge on or Off the Bike), Quick-Connect Modular Throttle and Motor Cables for Easy Repair or Replacement

Electronic Details

Motor Type:

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

Motor Nominal Output:

500 watts

Battery Brand:

Samsung

Battery Voltage:

48 volts (Optional 36)

Battery Amp Hours:

10 ah (Optional 15)

Battery Watt Hours:

480 wh (Optional 360 or 540)

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-ion

Charge Time:

4.5 hours

Estimated Min Range:

30 miles (48 km)

Estimated Max Range:

50 miles (80 km)

Display Type:

Three LED (Red, Yellow, Green)

Readouts:

Voltage Level (Remaining Battery Capacity)

Drive Mode:

Twist Throttle (Half Twist on Right Bar)

Top Speed:

20 mph (32 kph)


Written Review

The Comfort Cruiser is one of Pedego’s original designs, dating back to 2009, and the Step-Thru variation is meant to be easier to mount and ride for smaller individuals. The bike is simple, sturdy and powerful but less sophisticated than some of the newer designs offered by Pedego and others. That’s part of its charm and what makes it a wonderful choice for tours and rentals. It performs somewhere between a bicycle and a scooter, leveraging a twist throttle design that doesn’t require any pedaling to move. The fun colors, optional upgrades, friendly dealer network and solid warranty make this a high quality offering despite its more limited feature set.

What you aren’t getting with this design is a fancy LCD computer console showing your speed, distance or precise battery level. Instead, you get a red on/off button and three LED’s (green, yellow and red) approximating how much capacity is left. There’s not pedal assist option, no fancy suspension forks and only six gears but as mentioned before… this keeps the bike simple to operate. Six speeds is enough to climb hills or reach medium speeds but it’s not so many that the derailleurs require regular tuneups or that the chain will bounce off. It’s a happy medium.

The motor driving this electric bike delivers 500 watts of direct drive power. It’s a gearless design that is very durable, quiet and smooth and it’s built right into the 26″ rear wheel. One downside to any hub motor design is that wheel and tire maintenance gets a bit more complex with the hub motor in there. For this reason, Pedego has added quick connectors to their wires here and just after the throttle. This hub motor is a bit larger and heavier than a geared equivalent might be but there’s still room for the 6 speed cassette and a band brake. Note that on the front wheel there is a disc brake which provides more stopping power. It’s a minor trade off and works well enough.

The battery driving the Step Through Cruiser comes in three variations including two 36 volt options offering 10 or 15 amp hours of capacity (more amp hours = greater range) and one 48 volt 10 amp hour option. The chemistry of the cells in the same and consists of Lithium Iron Phosphate LiFePO4 which is known for enduring a greater number of charge cycles, offering a greater energy draw rate and superior thermal and chemical stability providing greater safety than something like Lithium Cobalt which is used in consumer electronics but weighs less. The battery pack itself is removable for easy charging inside or at the office if you use this to commute. The casing has a button to activate the rear LED light and one to display how full the battery is (similar to the LED indicator on the throttle).

In 2014 the rear rack design was updated and now fully encloses the battery pack offering improved style, stability and rack mounting options. It also has a spring arm built in so you can secure basic items like clothing or papers without the use of a bag. Overall I like the design and appreciate that it’s welded directly to the main frame (adding strength and reducing the possibility of vibration loosening over time) however, the larger tubing is not standard and may not work with all panniers. I’ve had good luck with the Basil Elements set. It’s worth calling out that this and other ebikes that position both the motor and battery at one end of the bike tend to be more difficult to lift because they tilt backwards. The removable battery makes this easier (since it weighs ~8 pounds). Keeping weight lower also improves balance and the new rack does this to an extent but is still higher than some other electric bike designs.

To sum it up, this is a fun electric bike that’s easy to operate and very durable. Not only is the design solid, the company behind it is very supportive and that extends to their network of dealers. Pedego has created a culture of fun with meetups and group rides, custom paint jobs accessories and even wood accents being produced by owners and fans. With a relaxed upright riding position and easy to use drive system this bike is very enjoyable to cruise on but not optimal if you plan to pedal along regularly due to the larger seat and body position. It’s perfect for individuals looking to relax while getting a stretch and the upgradable battery means it can be one of the most powerful ebikes around.

Pros:

  • Powerful 500 watt motor is smooth, quiet and capable for climbing moderate hills – also very durable
  • Six speed drive train is durable (requiring fewer tuneups), easy to manage and less likely to have the chain fall off
  • Twist throttle control is foolproof, the bike is very approachable and good for rentals
  • Welded rear rack design is sturdy, functional for mounting bags or panniers and protects the battery pack
  • Battery pack is removable for convenient charging and features a built in LED light and one-touch LED capacity indicator
  • Step through design is easy to mount and smaller than full sized Comfort Cruiser, great option for petite riders (consider the 24″ Cruiser for very small riders)
  • Several battery options including 36v 10ah or 15ah or 48v 10ah for increased power and range
  • Oversized handlebars, oversized tires and large seat with rubber bumpers smooth out cracks and bumps when riding
  • Pre-Slimed tubes are durable, designed to reduce punctures and slow leaks
  • Full range of colors to choose from, optional tire upgrades, optional fender upgrades

Cons:

  • Rear heavy design places the hub motor and battery pack at the back end of the bike, battery is also mounted higher up which is less stable
  • Single disc brake design (band brake in rear) provides a bit less stopping power
  • Throttle only operation is simple to use and durable but less versatile than if it also had pedal assist
  • Direct drive motor is heavier than geared equivalents and is not setup to offer regenerative braking
  • No LCD display console for precise batter level readout, speed or range – limited to two LED panels with rough battery level readouts
  • Key has to be left in the battery pack in order to operate the bike

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...

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...

2013 Pedego Classic Comfort Cruiser Review

  • MSRP: $1,995
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013

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...


Comments (4) YouTube Comments

ken
10 years ago

My 2014 step-thru comfort cruiser does not require the key in the battery pack to operate.

  Reply
Court Rye
10 years ago

Cool! Thanks for the heads up, maybe their new models are a bit different. Pedego is great at continuously improving. I’ll keep an eye out the next time I see this bike in person :)

  Reply
Mario Navarrete
9 years ago

i have 2 interceptor 48 v Is fun love it

  Reply
Court Rye
9 years ago

Thanks for sharing your experience with the Pedego Interceptor Mario! I agree, the 48 volt battery is extra strong and the bike is a blast to cruise around on :)

  Reply

Post a Comment

Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

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