Ride1Up 500 Series Review

Ride1up 500 Series Electric Bike Review
Ride1up 500 Series
Ride1up 500 Series Bafang H630 Planetary Geared Ebike Motor
Ride1up 500 Series Reention Dorado Ebike Battery Pack 500wh
Ride1up 500 Series Stitched Ergo Grips Trigger Throttle
Ride1up 500 Series Key Disp Kd21c Lcd
Ride1up 500 Series Sr Suntour Xct Spring Suspension Fork
Ride1up 500 Series 160mm Tektro Aries Disc Brakes
Ride1up 500 Series Front Blaze Lite Headlight
Ride1up 500 Series 48 Tooth Steel Chainring With Alloy Guard
Ride1up 500 Series Sealed 12 Magnet Cadence Sensor
Ride1up 500 Series Selle Royal Freeway Plush Comfort Saddle
Ride1up 500 Series Shimano Acera Derailleur 14 28 Freewheel
Ride1up 500 Series 2 Amp Sans Ebike Charger
Ride1up 500 Series Optional Gub Handlebar Phone Mount
Ride1up 500 Series Optional Pannier Bags
Ride1up 500 Series Optional Insulated Pannier Bags
Ride1up 500 Series Stock High Step Gray
Ride1up 500 Series Electric Bike Review
Ride1up 500 Series
Ride1up 500 Series Bafang H630 Planetary Geared Ebike Motor
Ride1up 500 Series Reention Dorado Ebike Battery Pack 500wh
Ride1up 500 Series Stitched Ergo Grips Trigger Throttle
Ride1up 500 Series Key Disp Kd21c Lcd
Ride1up 500 Series Sr Suntour Xct Spring Suspension Fork
Ride1up 500 Series 160mm Tektro Aries Disc Brakes
Ride1up 500 Series Front Blaze Lite Headlight
Ride1up 500 Series 48 Tooth Steel Chainring With Alloy Guard
Ride1up 500 Series Sealed 12 Magnet Cadence Sensor
Ride1up 500 Series Selle Royal Freeway Plush Comfort Saddle
Ride1up 500 Series Shimano Acera Derailleur 14 28 Freewheel
Ride1up 500 Series 2 Amp Sans Ebike Charger
Ride1up 500 Series Optional Gub Handlebar Phone Mount
Ride1up 500 Series Optional Pannier Bags
Ride1up 500 Series Optional Insulated Pannier Bags
Ride1up 500 Series Stock High Step Gray

Summary

  • An affordable urban electric bike with slightly higher top speed of 25mph, trigger throttle operates from zero and overrides all nine levels of assist for maximum control, zippy 500 watt Bafang hub motor, basic 160mm mechanical disc brakes
  • Upgraded Shimano Acera derailleur with basic 7-speed 14-28 tooth freewheel, upgraded rims with matching black spokes, thicker spokes in the rear for strength, unlabeled SR Suntour suspension fork with preload adjust adds comfort when paired with the gel saddle and stitched ergonomic grips
  • Sloping top tube makes the bike approachable with a lower standover height, value brake levers have rubberized edge for comfort and motor inhibitors for safety, integrated headlight keeps you visible, compact display is easy to use and offers some settings adjustments
  • Great kickstand placement, excellent sealed 12-magnet cadence sensor, two color options and even a swept-back handlebar option make this bike unique, ships to US, Canada, and Mexico for not much extra, more steps to assemble because the fork and stem are not attached, no bottle cage bosses, no slap guard

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

Ride1Up

Model:

500 Series

Price:

$1,099 (Free Shipping in the Contiguous US, $150 Outlying, $25 to Canada)

Body Position:

Forward, Upright

Suggested Use:

Urban

Electric Bike Class:

Throttle on Demand (Class 2), Speed Pedelec (Class 3)
Learn more about Ebike classes

Warranty:

1 Year Comprehensive

Availability:

United States, Canada, Mexico

Model Year:

20192020

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

55.7 lbs (25.26 kg)

Battery Weight:

7.3 lbs (3.31 kg)

Motor Weight:

9 lbs (4.08 kg)

Frame Material:

6061 Aluminum Alloy

Frame Sizes:

19 in (48.26 cm)

Geometry Measurements:

19" Seat Tube, 22.75" Reach, 28.25" Stand Over Height, 33.75" Minimum Saddle Height, 26.5" Width, 71" Length

Frame Types:

High-Step

Frame Colors:

Matte Gunmetal Gray with Black Accessories, Matte Taupe Grey with Brown Accessories

Frame Fork Details:

SR Suntour XCT Spring Suspension, 100mm Travel, Preload Adjust, 100mm Hub Spacing, 9mm Axle with Quick Release Skewer

Frame Rear Details:

135mm Hub Spacing, 12mm Threaded Slotted Axle with 19mm Nuts

Attachment Points:

Rear Rack Bosses, Fender Bosses

Gearing Details:

7 Speed 1x7 Shimano Acera Derailleur, Shimano MF-TZ500-7 Freewheel 14-28 Tooth

Shifter Details:

Shimano Acera Rapid-Fire Triggers on Right (One-Way High Lever, Three-Shift Low Lever)

Cranks:

Forged Alloy Arms, 170mm Length, Square Taper Bottom Bracket, 48 Tooth Steel Chainring with Alloy Guard

Pedals:

Wellgo M248DJ Platform, Cage Style

Headset:

Neco, Threadless, Sealed Cartridge, Straight 1-1/8"

Stem:

Promax MA-45, Aluminum Alloy, 90mm Length, 10-Degree Rise, 25.4mm Clamp Diameter, 20mm Cone Spacer, Two 10mm Spacers

Handlebar:

Aluminum Alloy, Mid-Rise, 45mm Rise, 660mm Length, (Optional Dutch Cafe-Style Swept-Back Handlebar)

Brake Details:

Tektro Aries Mechanical Disc with 160mm Rotors, Four-Finger Levers with Rubberized Edge and Motor Inhibitors

Grips:

Padded, Stitched, Faux Leather, Non-Locking

Saddle:

Selle Royal Freeway Plush Comfort

Seat Post:

Promax, Aluminum Alloy, Forged Head Single Bolt

Seat Post Length:

300 mm

Seat Post Diameter:

27.2 mm

Rims:

Aluminum Alloy, Double Walled, 25mm Outer Width, 36 Hole, Black

Spokes:

Stainless Steel, 14 Gauge Front 12 Gauge Rear, Black with Nipples

Tire Brand:

Kenda Kwick Seven-5, 27.5" x 2.2" (60-100-23)

Wheel Sizes:

27.5 in (69.85cm)

Tire Details:

30 to 50 PSI, 2.0 to 3.5 BAR, K-Shield Puncture Protection

Tube Details:

Schrader Valve

Accessories:

Integrated Blaze-Lite Headlight (Single LED, 300 Lumens), Steel Derailleur Guard, Rear-Mount Adjustable Kickstand, Optional Custom Rear Rack and Fenders ($100), Optional Insulated Water Resistant Reflective Panniers ($65)

Other:

Locking Removable Semi-Integrated Downtube Battery Pack (Reention Cylinder and Key), 9 Mosfet 18 Amp Current Controller, Sans 1.5 lb 2 Amp Charger, Basic Assembly Toolkit, Max Weight 275lbs

Electronic Details

Motor Brand:

Bafang H630

Motor Type:

Rear-Mounted Geared Hub
Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

500 watts

Motor Peak Output:

750 watts

Motor Torque:

50 Newton meters

Battery Brand:

(Reention Dorado) LG, 52 4P13S 18650 Cells 2600 mAh

Battery Voltage:

48 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

10.4 ah

Battery Watt Hours:

499.2 wh

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-ion

Charge Time:

4.5 hours

Estimated Min Range:

25 miles (40 km)

Estimated Max Range:

50 miles (80 km)

Display Type:

Key-Disp KD21C, Fixed, Backlit, 2.25" Monochrome LCD, Buttons: +, Power, -, Lights: Hold +, Walk Mode: Hold -, Settings: Hold + and -, Default Settings: Hold + and Power

Readouts:

Battery Charge Level (5 Bars), Odometer, Trip Meter, Timer, Power (Watts), Assist Level (0-9), Max Speed, Avg Speed

Display Accessories:

Full Size USB Type A Port on Right Side of Battery (5 Volt, 500 mA)

Drive Mode:

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

Top Speed:

25 mph (40 kph)(20 MPH Throttle, Adjustable)


Written Review

To run the forums, host the website, and travel, I charge a universal service fee for my reviews. This in-depth review was sponsored by Ride1Up electric bikes. My goal is to be transparent and unbiased with you, this video and writeup are not meant to be an endorsement of Ride1Up products. I welcome your corrections, additions, and feedback in the comments below and the Ride1Up electric bike forums.

Observations:

  • This is the first product that Ride1Up launched when they opened in September 2018, it’s their most popular model because it offers good quality at a relatively low price
  • The 500 Series comes in two frame colors with matching accents (either brown or black saddle and grips), you can choose a mid-rise handlebar or swept-back Dutch style handlebar which is unique for an affordable product
  • Ride1Up is based in San Diego, California but has a warehouse in Sparks, Nevada where products are shipped from. The bikes fit into a smaller box and require more assembly than a lot of the other models I’ve tested… you need to put the fork onto the frame, assemble the headset and mount the stem, mount the front wheel, and add the seat post and saddle. It would help to have a bike stand, but they do include a basic toolkit and have good tutorial videos here (under the instructional guides tab)

Pros:

  • Lots of great accessories at impressively low prices, the fenders and rack for just $100 is amazing! I liked the double-pannier accessory with reflective fabric and insulation is great, the phone mount is fairly high quality
  • Low price is one of the big draws for Ride1Up and I feel that their $1,099 price point is a great value considering the two color options, matching accessories, and handlebar choices… they even offer a $40-off coupon for people who pledge to reduce their drive commute by two trips per month, how cool is that?!
  • Good choice on the cadence sensor here, the sealed 12-magnet design is responsive and durable, it performed well with the 9-settings of pedal assist… the lower levels didn’t feel too abrupt or overpowering
  • I appreciate that they mounted the kickstand at the rear of the frame so it won’t cause pedal lock, it didn’t collide with the disc brake rotor and didn’t cause heal-strike when I was riding, good job!
  • Proven Reention battery pack design with quality LG cells, trusted Bafang hub motor should last and perform well (though it does produce more zip sound than some competing models), solid one year warranty with good customer support
  • Suspension fork reduces wrist, arm, and shoulder fatigue when paired with the comfort saddle, grips, and slightly larger tires here… I was told that the Kenda tires have a puncture protection layer to reduce flats
  • Rust resistant chain and sturdy alloy chainring guard should hold up well over time and in varied conditions, I’d love to see a full chainring guide, but didn’t have issues dropping the chain during my test rides
  • Black spokes look great, notice the thicker 12 gauge rear spokes to support the motor and added weight of the optional rack, I like that the suspension fork is just matte black with no logos… the bike looks great for not costing a lot… good cable wrapping and internal routing
  • Both brake levers have motor inhibitor cutoff switches for safety and I like the rubberized edge, even though they are a very affordable “Wuxing 5 Star” make/model, I also like the compact display because it provides plenty of readouts and lets you adjust settings
  • It’s nice that the battery pack is removable and has a USB port built into the side so you can use it for backup power, it would also be nice to have a USB port up on the display so you could use it more easily while riding
  • I was amazed that they offer free shipping in the contiguous USA and only charge $25 for Canada. They also shop to Hawaii and Alaska for just $125 extra and even Mexico… that’s kind of rare for electric bike companies because it requires more effort
  • The throttle works at full power (up to 20mph / 32km/h) in assist level zero as well as all nine of the pedal assist modes… this is great for people who want help starting off and zipping up to speed regardless of their assist setting, it requires fewer button presses and feels empowering to me, it’s my favorite setup!
  • One the one hand, having nine levels of assist requires extra button presses… but I like that the lower levels of assist feel more gentle and natural, and I think you can update the number of assist levels in the settings men, so you an take it to just 3 or 5 if you prefer that

Cons:

  • As with many direct-online electric bikes, there is some assembly required here… you’ll need to mount the fork, add the spacers and stem, get the handlebar setup and then mount the front wheel, finishing with the seat post, saddle, and pedals… it would help to have a bike stand, some chain lubricant, some poly grease, and I’d expect it to take from one to three hours depending on your physical flexibility, strength, tools, and the setting. What you save on money here, you may spend in time and effort compared to some ready-to-ride models or shop ebikes
  • Very basic freeewheel here with limited 14 to 28 tooth sprocket range, this limits your pedal cadence options and requires more effort to start in the lowest gear and faster pedaling to keep up in the highest (considering this is a speed pedelec). I was told that they are considering an 11-30 tooth cassette in the future
  • While the bike is classified as “Class 3” speed pedelec, my experience was that it really topped out closer to 25mph unless you really pedal hard. That’s just fine for me, but don’t expect 28mph here or you’ll be disappointed
  • One of the trade-offs with this, and many affordable ebikes, is the mechanical disc brakes with smaller 160mm rotors. They require more hand effort (especially the rear brake), and the cables can stretch and get gunked up over time compared to hydraulic disc brakes
  • It’s hard to complain too much about this, but there isn’t a rear light… only a headlight. I love that the headlight is wired-in to run off of the main battery pack, it’s more of a “be seen” light, but isn’t all that bad
  • My experience removing and then re-installing the battery pack was that I had to use the key to open the lock mechanism vs. just clicking it back in key-free… this required a bit more hand dexterity and coordination
  • The right chainstay didn’t have a slap guard, so I noticed some nicks in the paint from the chain bouncing up and down while riding on bumpy sections at higher speeds (usually when the chain is on the smallest sprocket, closest to the chainstay)
  • No bottle cage bosses on this frame, some competing bikes with similar frames have added them on top of the top tube but that can look a bit cluttered and if you actually use those bosses, the folding lock, bottle cage, or other accessory is in a vulnerable spot, raising the standover height and potentially racking you if you have to hop forward and off unexpectedly

Useful Resources:

More Ride1Up Reviews

Ride1Up 700 Series Review

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A commute-ready ebike with sturdy aluminum alloy fenders and versatile rear rack with triple bungee and pannier hangers, available in two frame styles (high-step and step-thru), two color choices, and ships to US, Canada, and Mexico. Great value given the name-brand components: 160mm Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, Selle Royal comfort saddle,…...

Ride1Up Prodigy XR Review

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  • MODEL YEAR: 2022

A feature complete commuter-ready speed pedelec that can hit 28mph 45 km/h. It uses a premium mid-drive motor from Brose, and reliable Samsung battery cells. Relatively low price point for proven name-brand components including the 9-speed Shimano Alivio drivetrain.. A physical shift sensor cuts power anytime you change gears, significantly reducing chain and sprocket…...

Comments (34) YouTube Comments

Nat
4 years ago

Hi! I absolutely love this website and all of your reviews. I’m a big fan. You do my favorite e-bike reviews, period. That being said, do you guys have any plans to review the Trek Verve+ 2? I am planning to purchase one next month, but haven’t really found any video reviews (or even any in-depth written ones). Would love to hear/read your take on it, especially since I haven’t been able to get my hands on one of these bikes locally. I am a little anxious to order one “sight unseen”. Anyway, thanks! Keep up the good work and happy holidays! :)

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Hi Nat! We did film that bike and are working on processing it, hope to have the review up soon! The original Verve+ was great, and I think it sold out. Keep an eye out and hopefully we will get it up in the coming days or week. Thanks again!

  Reply
Nat
4 years ago

Hey Court! That is awesome! You have just made my day. Looking forward to it! I love Trek bikes, and have both an FX hybrid and an X-Caliber 8 mountain bike. As a very tall woman, their bikes seem to just “work” for me. Their men’s bikes seem to fit me perfectly. I have asthma that can get a little scary sometimes, so I’d rather have the option of pedal assist I ride any distances longer than 4-5 miles or so. I checked out your review for the first generation Verve+ a while back. That was a big part of what sold me on it. It just seems like there have been enough small changes/upgrades made with the latest one to make me a little nervous/curious about it. Glad to hear that you think so highly of it! Your opinion means a lot. I also had no idea that they sold out of the original one. Wow. Anyway, thanks again for your reply!

Arjan
4 years ago

Hi Court, is the Ride 1 up 500 better than the Lectric XP or the 700, as a daily commute in your opinion? Thanks and I’m a big fun of what you guys do.

Arjan

Michael Beltzer
4 years ago

I’ve had this bike since June 2019 in NYC and I LOVE IT! I have put over 2000 hard miles on this bike and it has been super reliable and just damn fun and quick. I have replaced almost all my transit trips with it and I rarely feel any fatigue even on 1hr + trips.

I do weigh 190 pounds and ride hard, so my range is at or below the lower range (15-20miles) The battery cuts off almost exactly at the same range regardless of hills and even some wind so it’s been easy to plan my trips (I did buy a second battery, the new extended is my current one, the range on it is a little less than the bump up in ah over the included)

If you ride hard in urban area, expect to replace pads more often. I also have a companion bike seat that I ride my daughter and even my GF on! This bike performs like a champ even on hills with weight!

I would definitely recommend this bike, keep the tire pressure up and be amazed all the places you’ll go. I’ve had this bike since June in NYC.

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Hi Michael, great testimonia! Thanks for sharing your personal stats about weight and range, very helpful. So glad the Ride1Up 500 has been working great for you. Hope it continues to perform well, feel free to share updates anytime :D

  Reply
Doug
4 years ago

One of your best reviews ever, Court. Packed with facts, concise, included feedback with manufacturer, varied performance on ride. Really felt I got to know the bike. Good job! Doug

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

You made my day, Doug! Thank you… I’m doing my best and am back in the travel/review seat after some major programming projects this year that sort of took me off task. I did my best to get review help, but felt that we were a bit inconsistent and the quality was a bit lower. I’m excited for 2020 and am happy that this review in particular, resonated with you ;)

  Reply
Howard
4 years ago

If you could only choose one, which would you choose among the RideUp1 500 Series, the rad bikes, or the lectric xp? Thanks.

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Hmm, great question Howard. If budget was the focus, I’d probably get the Ride1Up 500 Series because I appreciate the lighter weight and more efficient tires compared to Lectric XP. Folding fat just isn’t necessary for my usage… but if you want more off-road in soft terrain and like the style and compact design of a folding fat, then Lectric XP might win. For the money, I think that Rad has some of the best products. I really like their new step-thru fat bike and the step-thru RadMini if you’re into fat tires. Their lights are great, the accessories are awesome, and I like how they look. The city bikes are decent, and have regenerative braking, but weigh a bit more because of the gearless motor. I think it’s close between the Ride1Up 500 and RadCity models, depending on your needs. For affordability, the RadRunner is awesome because it has medium sized 3.3″ tires, an adjustable saddle height for comfortable pedaling, and some very cool accessories, including a passenger seat option. There are so many directions that this conversation could go, it really depends on your needs. I hope this helps :)

  Reply
Suzanne
4 years ago

Hey! Love the information you have given on your site. I’m looking for ebike that will I use mostly on roads, pedaling about 20-25 miles, on country roads. I’d like a bike that I can easily charge the battery if need be, but also pedal if the battery dies out. I’d be comfortable pedaling with no battery assistance. And yes, budget is also an issue. I don’t have a big budget for one – Thought I’d get your opinion. Thx, Suzanne

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Hi Suzanne, the Ride1Up 500 Series was great for the money. It uses proven, reliable parts, and has a fairly approachable frame (angled top tube). The people I met (including the founder) were very helpful and proactive. Yes, they are a smallish company, but they do a good job and really care. The biggest challenge may be getting one that can arrive quickly because I’ve heard that inventory is low due to so many people wanting to get out and bike! There are many similar products from Magnum, e-Joe, and Amego worth exploring too (Amigo has some cool paint colors worth checking out). So, I hope this helps you!

  Reply
Maureen
4 years ago

Hi Court, I really like your reviews! I am planning on buying a low cost step-thru bike and am wondering if you plan to review the new Ride1Up 500 series Step Thru? Thanks!

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Hi Maureen! Good choice, Ride1Up has been producing fun and very affordable products. I’d love to cover their new 500 Series Step-Thru, but travel has been limited lately, so I’m not sure when it will happen. I hope this and other reviews can help you to assess the bike just based on what they share on their website now. Good luck and definitely come back and comment if you get and ride yours before I get to test one out. I have a forum section for Ride1Up where you can post and even add pictures and stuff, if you feel like it :D

  Reply
John Cerra
4 years ago

Court, You really know your stuff when it comes to these bikes. I have been an avid cyclist for years and as I age I just want to have fun and not worry about my avg speed or the pack. In fact, I want an e-bike now to use for some small commutes and on occasion mess w/ my more serious friend and motor pace them! LOL. I really like what you have to say about Ride1Up and Aventon. I am comparing the Core 5, the LTD, 700 series w/ the Level. I want the torque and power for the hills. This is my first e-bike so I do want some real biking experience, but also the power. I think that I will be more satisfied w/ the Ride1 Up LTD due to the torque sensor and extra battery. Are there any other brands out there at this price point that will fit the bill? Also, some of the threads indicate that Ride1Up may release an 800 in the fall. Local shop told me that there is a convention in Oct and a lot of manufacturers release new tech then. I am not in a hurry. Is this true? Again, thank you for your awesome reviews. It is nice to see someone so knowledgeable and passionate about biking! I am sure you have helped a lot of folks! Take care.

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Hi John! yeah, Ride1Up has created some awesome products and really kept the price down. I do think there are ebike events scheduled, but it’s difficult to say with the COVID situation. I haven’t been invited to any since I’m locked up in Canada right now!! Ebikes are a lot like computers, in that the technology is rapidly improving. It’s very possible that an 800 could release, but if you miss the riding of the Summer/Fall, it might not be worth waiting for. Another consideration is availability, do they have stock of the LTD right now? I’d check in because many brands are sold out or backordered. Frankly, I feel like any of the bikes I covered would be worth owning, and enjoyable. The others look very good too, and I suspect I’d trust them even without seeing the next review. I like the founder, he’s a hard worker. There are other companies and bikes, like Aventon, Surface 604, Rad Power Bikes etc. but Ride1Up holds their own. I hope this helps, I realize it’s somewhat general feedback since I haven’t tried the new ones and am not fully up to speed with their inventory and launch schedule :)

  Reply
Don Andrues
4 years ago

Hi Court, Your reviews are top of the line! Thank you! I’m considering the Ride1Up 500 or the Aventon Pace 500. I would be riding mostly on paved roads with some light to moderate unpaved service road use. Do you prefer one over the other? Thanks so much for your response. And again, what a great service you’re providing!

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Hey, thanks Don! I really enjoyed meeting the founder of Ride1Up and feel that his products offer great value. I believe that Aventon is a larger company and sells through more shops. If you’re comfortable dealing on your own a bit and like what Ride1Up is offering with their 500 Series, I’d say go with it. I haven’t ordered either, so I’m not sure about unpacking and assembly, but some shops have said that Aventon requires more effort to unpack and assemble. Perhaps that could be a tie breaker for you? Whatever you choose, I’d love to hear how it goes!!

  Reply
Don
4 years ago

Hi Court, What a nice guy you are to reply to my comment. I ordered a Ride1Up 500 the other day. I’ll post a comment on it once I try it out. I live near the Rose Bowl in Pasadena and plan to ride around it and on the unpaved service roads that spring off. Your videos are great. You’re doing a great service for folks. Thanks again.

Tom
3 years ago

Hi Court, thanks for the review. I really like the look of this bike. In addition to biking around town I was considering using this bike on off-road single-track trails; I know there are other bikes better suited for it, but I need an upright position and a relatively light bike. Do you think this bike could work in that situation? My thought was to swap out the tires for better off road grip. I am new to e-bikes and have just started shopping so if I’m missing something or there is a better option let me know. Also, the price definitely doesn’t hurt in my consideration.

  Reply
Court
3 years ago

Hi Tom! If you’re mostly going off-road, perhaps something like the Magnum Peak or Surface 604 Shred (which can accept a rack) will suit your needs? When you said that price doesn’t hurt your consideration, did that mean you are willing to spend more?

  Reply
Katherine
3 years ago

Hi! I just wanted to share my experience with Ride1up because I did a lot of research through EBR to pick the right bike for my first ebike purchase and it has been a disaster. I will never buy from Ride1up again.

The 500 Series is a good bike for sure, but after the second day riding it my motor began to make a horrible grinding noise when using the throttle. I reached out to Ride1up immediately asking about it and what could be done. After a month of back and forth, answering unnecessary questions that seemed to imply I must have done something wrong within the first days of having it, they finally said they would take care of it by sending a new motor. However, putting a new motor in was exceedingly hard. They did send some tools to help with it which was appreciated but while replacing it we found that one of the screw holes for the motor was damaged so we couldn’t get the motor on properly. Now I can’t used the bike at all without fear of damaging the new motor. Again, this all came up after two days of owning the bike. If this was any of other company they would have sent a new wheel or a new bike. They offered me to send it back since it was in the return window but I would have to pay for shipping (close to $200 dollars) and any costs for repairing it to look new. Having ridden it for a few weeks while going back and forth on this issue, that would have been a cost I shouldn’t have to have spend after already spending $1,300 on this bike. Now it seems all that money was wasted. I would not recommend this company.

  Reply
Court
3 years ago

Oh man, that’s such a bummer Katherine! Thanks for sharing your experience in a constructive way. It seems like you’re being pretty level-headed about things and acknowledging the trade-off between lower price paid and lower support/service. I’m sorry that you had to be one of the unlucky ones. I’d be happy to send you $200 of my own money if you decide to send the bike back, to help pay for shipping. This way, you could start again with a different bike and actually enjoy it. I keep some marketing money aside to help people from time to time and it’s not a huge deal for me. I don’t know your situation, but given the global challenges right now, it’s one way I can spread some cheer. Just email me at electricbikereview at gmail and remind me of who you are, I’d have to use PayPal but am willing to help if you’re up for it.

  Reply
Katherine
3 years ago

Wow. Court I am so blown away by your generosity and kindness! I would love to take you up on that but my return window closed this past week :(. I just got the new motor then too so I was hoping that would finally be the fix but then it turned out not to work. But it’s okay, I am glad others have had such a good experience with them prior, just wanted to make others aware of mine in case it happens again. I also really appreciate your site! All the information and reviews were very helpful to me, just happened to be one of the unlucky ones for sure. Thank you again for your kind offer! Just makes me happy to know people like you exist :).

Katherine
3 years ago

You are so kind Court, thank you! The new motor does work (I think), I actually have not been able to try it out because when we (my boyfriend and I) were replacing it we realized that one of the sockets for the motor is stripped so we could not get the new motor flush with the bike wheel. Therefore, I am concerned that water or other elements could get in (since there is a crack) and damage the new motor. We emailed and called Ride1up again asking for a whole new wheel, but that was not an option before and we have not heard back from them yet so it may just be a heavy bike. I could still try using it, but I don’t want to risk the motor getting ruined. Might try and sell it to a used bike shop to get some money for it and then get a different bike (if they don’t send a new wheel). I am not sure there is anything you can do to help, but I so appreciate you offering! I can also keep you updated on what happens.

  Reply
Court
3 years ago

Sounds good Katherine, I hope things work out. It sounds like you’ve got a couple of good options and are making progress. Good luck and I definitely welcome feedback… but only if you want to, no need to add work to your situation that is already a bit difficult ;)

  Reply
willow dowling
3 years ago

Hi, I would like to know which bike, the 500 or the core 5 would be better for a 5’2” woman. I plan on getting the step through in either model. I’m leaning towards the 500 but I’m worried it’ll be too big and heavy.

Thanks,
Willow

  Reply
Court
3 years ago

Hi Willow! That’s an interesting question. My guess would be that the Core-5 has a heavier frame in order to support the internally mounted battery. That said, the 500 Series adds weight with fenders and the rear rack. Now, you could remove those accessories and the bike would probably be lighter than the Core-5. It’s cool that they offer both models in step-thru :)

  Reply
Andy
3 years ago

I bought one of these in the beginning (Oct 2017). I was able to test ride one in Davis, CA at Kevin’s mother’s house. I really liked it and ordered one.
The bike did have its issues.

  1. The freewheel needed to be upgraded to one with an 11t high gear (Epoch on amazon) Not a big deal.
  2. The charger failed, and Kevin promptly shipped me a new one.
  3. I had an accident because the brakes did not stop well. The stopping distance is unacceptable. Again, upgrading brakes is not that big a deal, but these are worthless, especially at 25MPH!!
  4. This was the final straw… The rear wheel spokes were not cut properly on one side. The nipples were tightened all the way to the end of the threads of the spokes. Spokes kept breaking. They were not tensioned properly. The only option Kevin offered was to continue sending me replacement spokes as they continued to fail.

Needless to say, I sold the bike at a loss as a re-lacing of spokes at my expense was not what I wanted in a brand new bike.

  Reply
Court
3 years ago

Hi Andy, thanks for the detailed feedback. It sounds like you’re fairly good with bicycles and were willing to take a few steps to make the Ride1Up 500 work. I’ve taken a loss on stuff like this before, sometimes it’s the best answer. I hope your next bike works out better for you.

  Reply

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