SONDORS MXS Review

Sondors Mxs Electric Bike Review
Sondors Mxs
Sondors Mxs 750w Bafang Rear Hub Motor
Sondors Mxs 48v 17.5ah Removable Battery
Sondors Mxs Cockpit View Slight Swept Back Handlebars Ergonomic Rubber Grips
Sondors Mxs Color Lcd Display Usb Charging Port
Sondors Mxs Thumb Throttle Shimano Revoshift Twist Shifter
Sondors Mxs Tektro Auriga E Sub Hydraulic Brakes Four Finger Levers
Sondors Mxs Mozo Air Suspension Fork 130mm Travel
Sondors Mxs Maxxis High Roller Ii Front Tire
Sondors Mxs 180mm Front Brake Rotor Tektro Dual Piston Caliper
Sondors Mxs Selle Royale Gel Saddle Top View
Sondors Mxs Selle Royale Gel Saddle
Sondors Mxs 48t Chainring With Alloy Guide Stainless Steel Chain
Sondors Mxs Fabric Slap Guard Steel Derailleur Guard
Sondors Mxs Rear Mounted Adjustable Wide Base Kickstand
Sondors Mxs Battery Switch Cover
Sondors Mxs Stock High Step Torch
Sondors Mxs Stock High Step Ghost Torch
Sondors Mxs Electric Bike Review
Sondors Mxs
Sondors Mxs 750w Bafang Rear Hub Motor
Sondors Mxs 48v 17.5ah Removable Battery
Sondors Mxs Cockpit View Slight Swept Back Handlebars Ergonomic Rubber Grips
Sondors Mxs Color Lcd Display Usb Charging Port
Sondors Mxs Thumb Throttle Shimano Revoshift Twist Shifter
Sondors Mxs Tektro Auriga E Sub Hydraulic Brakes Four Finger Levers
Sondors Mxs Mozo Air Suspension Fork 130mm Travel
Sondors Mxs Maxxis High Roller Ii Front Tire
Sondors Mxs 180mm Front Brake Rotor Tektro Dual Piston Caliper
Sondors Mxs Selle Royale Gel Saddle Top View
Sondors Mxs Selle Royale Gel Saddle
Sondors Mxs 48t Chainring With Alloy Guide Stainless Steel Chain
Sondors Mxs Fabric Slap Guard Steel Derailleur Guard
Sondors Mxs Rear Mounted Adjustable Wide Base Kickstand
Sondors Mxs Battery Switch Cover
Sondors Mxs Stock High Step Torch
Sondors Mxs Stock High Step Ghost Torch

Summary

  • The MXS is a bold and powerful mountain bike spin on the classic SONDORS design, standing out from the crowd with bright colors and the iconic triangle battery compartment, available online-only in North America and covered by a one-year comprehensive warranty
  • A Mozo air suspension fork provides a solid 130mm of travel up front, the suspension seatpost adds some comfort to the hardtail design, Maxxis plus-sized tires with boost hub spacing provide strength and stability
  • Smooth and intuitive shifting across 7 speeds from the Shimano Altus derailleur combined with a RevoShift half-grip shifter, cassette gear range is low for an eMTB and may struggle with steep inclines, stellar stopping power from Tektro hydraulic disc brakes
  • A massive 840wh battery paired with the 750-watt Bafang rear hub motor provides plenty of power for steep inclines and high speeds, but that power and the presence of a throttle will limit trail access, only available in one size so it may not fit some riders well

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

SONDORS

Model:

MXS

Price:

$1,699 Minimum $97 for Shipping (Location Dependent)

Body Position:

Forward

Suggested Use:

Downhill, Mountain, Trail

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

Model Year:

2020

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

65.7 lbs (29.8 kg)

Battery Weight:

9.4 lbs (4.26 kg)

Motor Weight:

10.1 lbs (4.58 kg)

Frame Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Frame Sizes:

19 in (48.26 cm)

Geometry Measurements:

19" Seat Tube, 22" Reach, 30" Standover Height, 35.5" Minimum Saddle Height, 25.25" Width, 75" Length

Frame Types:

High-Step

Frame Colors:

Torch, Ghost Torch

Frame Fork Details:

MOZO Air Suspension Fork, 34mm Annodized Aluminum Stanchions, 130mm Travel, 110mm Boost Hub Spacing, Rebound Adjustment Clicker, Manual Air Pressure Adjustment Valve, Removable Air Cartridge, 12mm Threaded Through Axle with 20mm Nuts

Frame Rear Details:

170mm Hub Spacing, 12mm Threaded Through Axle with 20mm Nuts

Attachment Points:

Rear Rack Bosses, Rear Fender Bosses

Gearing Details:

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

Shifter Details:

Shimano RevoShift Half-Grip Twist on Right

Cranks:

Lasco, Forged Aluminum Alloy, 170 mm Length, 48 Tooth Steel Chainring with Alloy Guide

Pedals:

Wellgo, Aluminum Alloy Platform with Pins

Headset:

Integrated, Sealed Cartridge Bearings, 1-1/8" Straight

Stem:

Aluminum Alloy, Threadless, 7 Degree Rise, Five 5mm Spacers, Two 3mm Spacers, 90mm Length, 31.8mm Clamp Diameter

Handlebar:

Aluminum Alloy, 7 Degree Back Sweep, 31.8mm Bore

Brake Details:

Tektro Auriga E-SUB Hydraulic Disc with 180 mm Rotors, Four-Finger Levers with Motor Inhibitors

Grips:

Ergonomic Rubber, Locking, Black

Saddle:

Selle Royale Gel

Seat Post:

Exoform 625 Suspension (30mm Travel, Preload Adjustment Bolt in Base), Aluminum Alloy, Quick-Release Skewer

Seat Post Length:

270 mm

Seat Post Diameter:

30.4 mm

Rims:

Aluminum Alloy, 50mm Outer Width, Double Wall 36 Hole, Black

Spokes:

Stainless Steel, 12 Gauge Front, 11 Gauge Rear, Black with Silver Nipples

Tire Brand:

Maxxis High Roller II, 27.5" x 3.0" (58-584)

Wheel Sizes:

27.5 in (69.85cm)

Tire Details:

EXO Puncture Protection, Tubeless Ready, 60 TPI, 12 to 40 PSI (0.8 to 2.1 BAR

Tube Details:

Schrader Valve

Accessories:

Rear-Mount Adjustable Kickstand, Steel Derailleur Guard, SONDORS Fabric Slap Guard

Other:

Locking Removable Frame Compartment Integrated Battery Pack, 1.4 lb 3 amp Charger, Internal Cable Routing, 48 Volt 25 Amp Controller, Rust Resistant Steel Chain

Electronic Details

Motor Brand:

Bafang

Motor Type:

Rear-Mounted Geared Hub
Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

750 watts

Motor Peak Output:

1000 watts

Motor Torque:

80 Newton meters

Battery Brand:

LG 3500

Battery Voltage:

48 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

17.5 ah

Battery Watt Hours:

870 wh

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-Ion

Charge Time:

8 hours

Estimated Min Range:

30 miles (48 km)

Estimated Max Range:

65 miles (105 km)

Display Type:

SONDORS Branded Bafang DCP-18, Fixed, Backlit, 3.25" Color LCD, USB Type A Charging Port on Right Side (5V 1A)

Readouts:

Battery Percentage, Current Speed (With Infographic), Power Meter, Trip Distance, Odometer, Max Speed, Avg Speed, Trip Time, Assist Level (0-5)

Display Accessories:

Independent Button Pad on Left, Buttons: +, i, -, Walk, Settings: Hold + and -, Deep Settings: Hold i and -

Drive Mode:

Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist, Trigger Throttle

Top Speed:

20 mph (32 kph)28 mph (45 kph)


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

Observations:

  • The MXS is the first electric mountain bike made by SONDORS, a model that has been highly requested for some time now, so it’s cool to see it become a reality!
  • While technically qualifying as a hardtail eMTB, the MXS doesn’t really fit nicely into any category box. Sure, it has MTB Maxxis tires with boost hub spacing, a great suspension fork, and powerful hydraulic brakes… but other features aren’t typically found on eMTBs, such as the kickstand and large display which can get easily damaged while mountain biking. There’s also no dropper seatpost, the gear range is limited, and the presence of the throttle (not to mention the massive motor) will limit what MTB trails you can legally ride on. To me, the MXS seems designed for SONDORS enthusiasts who want to tackle trails and rough terrain and have more agility than the typical fat-tire SONDORS Ebikes, while also performing well for city riding and cruising
  • The MXS ships as a Class 2 electric bike which means throttle or pedal-assist up to 20mph. You can easily configure it as a Class 3 to reach 28mph speeds, in which case you need to disconnect the throttle to still ride legally in most places. Fortunately, SONDORS includes some easy connectors inside the frame for disabling the throttle, and ships the MXS with both Class 2 and Class 3 stickers so you can apply the right one.
  • If you own a SONDORS it is easy to connect with the large and active community of other owners on Facebook and various forums around the web – including right here on EBR! SONDORS bikes are regarded as being highly customizable, both with official accessories and DIY modifications.

Pros:

  • Available online across North America and covered by a new-and-improved one-year comprehensive warranty, SONDORS has also increased the size of their support team to help serve their growing community of riders
  • Bright, eye-catching colors of Torch and Ghost Torch (white) and the iconic SONDORS battery compartment make the MXS stand out in a big way, well managed and internally routed cabling keeps it looking sleek as well
  • The Maxxis tires are excellent all-purpose mountain bike tires with EXO puncture protection, they are tubeless-ready and plus-sized at 27.5×3.0 which increases comfort and stability
  • Stronger-than-average spokes with 12 gauge up front and 11 gauge in the rear, the MXS also has boost hub spacing which further increases strength and durability
  • Fairly comfortable for a hardtail thanks to the addition of a suspension seatpost with 30mm of travel, which isn’t a lot but every little bit helps! Up front is the MOZO air suspension fork with 130mm of travel, large 34mm stanchions, as well as a manual air adjustment valve a clicker for rebound adjustments
  • Excellent stopping power from the Ebike-specific Tektro Auriga E-Sub brakes, these are hydraulic disc brakes with large four-finger levers which makes them incredibly easy to actuate even if you have low grip strength, for contrast most mountain bikes have two-finger levers (designed so that you can operate the brakes with two fingers while keeping most of your hand on the grip for stability). Large 180mm rotors in the front and rear provide good dissipation and these brakes have no problem stopping the hefty weight of the MXS
  • The display features an appealing 3.5″ color LCD with numerous readouts, as well as a USB-A charging port on the right side that pushes a full amp of power, which means you can charge any smartphone with it (iPhones require a full amp vs. the 0.5 amps required by Android devices)
  • The control system is incredibly configurable! You can adjust the number of pedal-assist levels as low as 1-3 or as high as 1-9, you can customize what percentage of motor assist you get for each of those levels, and you can even tweak the sensitivity for the battery capacity readout. Of course, you also have access to the more standard options (such as wheel size and backlighting levels)
  • The battery is constructed of high-quality LG 3500 cells and has a massive capacity of 840 watt-hours, and should provide plenty of range even when using high levels of electric assist. Its triangle shape fits snugly into the iconic SONDORS frame compartment, and when removed from the bike you can use the carrying handle for easy transport
  • The Bafang rear hub motor is satisfyingly powerful with 750 watts nominal and about 1000 watts peak, hub motors aren’t often seen on mountain bikes as they can sometimes struggle on grades at lower speeds, but this motor had no problem with some steep inclines as well as riding on sand (check out the video review to see it in action)
  • The drivetrain features a Shimano Altus derailleur and a RevoShift half-grip shifter, and while it isn’t top-of-the-line I really appreciate it for its simplicity and ease of use, grip shifters make it easy to quickly shift up and down the entire 7-speed cassette, and the Altus derailleur is a step up from the entry-level Tourney. I also appreciate that a steel derailleur guard is included, extra important here as it also protects the motor connection point
  • The chain is stainless steel which is more durable and rust-resistant, and the MXS also has a double-sided bash guard that serves to protect the chainring as well as keeping the chain securely in place
  • Truly impressive tuning of the cadence pedal sensor means that the motor responds almost instantly when you start pedaling, to the point that it almost feels like a torque sensor! Typical cadence sensors have a delay of 1-2 revolutions on the crank arms before they kick in, so I appreciate that SONDORS has really dialed this in
  • The adjustable-length kickstand has a wide base and did well even parking in the sand, and it is rear-mounted which means it won’t lock up the cranks when moving the bike backward while the kickstand is down
  • The standard charger is 3 amp which is higher than the average 2 amp charger of most electric bikes, this means a faster charging time – definitely appreciated for such a high-capacity battery!

Cons:

  • The battery can be removed from the frame compartment but it is a multi-step process that feels time-consuming compared to most Ebikes. You have to unscrew the compartment, unlock the battery, lift it part-way out while being careful not to stretch and damage cables, and then unscrew the controller connector. These are simple steps but it does mean extra time and effort if you want to regularly remove the battery and store it inside while not riding, which is something I recommend to prolong battery life. Lithium-ion batteries will last longer if you protect them from extreme temperatures, as well as keeping them about 50% full when storing for longer periods of time
  • Only one frame size so riders at the ends of the size spectrum may not fit on the MXS, at 6ft 3in I found the MXS fairly comfortable but couldn’t quite get full leg extensions. This is one of the trade-offs when purchasing from a direct-to-consumer company like SONDORS; You save a lot in terms of cost and availability, but you don’t get the test ride option and dialed-in fit that is possible with dealer-distributed bikes
  • Any warranty claims or repairs through SONDORS will involve shipping your MXS back to SONDORS… so I recommend hanging on to that shipping box, at least for your warranty period! Fortunately, SONDORS has expanded their warranty and support team to make that process more smooth, and SONDORS Ebikes use industry-standard components so that you can maintain them yourself, or have them serviced at your local bike shop
  • The display is adjustable for angle for reducing glare, but it is not removable, which means it is vulnerable from damage to weather or getting dinged at the bike rack. More so here it is at risk to damage while mountain biking, this is why most eMTBs have displays that are either removable or small and out of the way
  • The rear cassette has seven speeds but a range of only 14 to 28 teeth, this is a basic range and smaller than I would like to see on a mountain bike, the first gear being only 28 teeth means that you won’t be able to tackle steep inclines without serious help from the motor. Fortunately, the motor is more than up to the task, having no problem with a sustained steep incline during my ride test
  • As mentioned in the last point that powerful motor and throttle are great for speeding up hills, but they come at a price. Many mountain bike trails limit the wattage of the motor, sometimes as low as 250 watts, and many trails also do not allow throttle-equipped electric bikes at all. This means that even though the MXS is an eMTB, there will be a lot of traditional MTB tracks where you aren’t allowed to ride, so make sure you check the regulations for your favorite riding spots if being able to ride there is an important factor for you
  • The cadence sensor is not sealed which means it is vulnerable to damage and losing magnets, keep in mind that this is a fairly rare occurrence… although possibly more likely if mountain biking on rough terrain! While SONDORS has done a fantastic job of tuning this cadence sensor, it still won’t be able to compete with a torque-sensing mid-drive setup when it comes to riding on highly varied terrain
  • There are a few other departures from standard mountain biking load-outs here: kickstands usually aren’t included because they add weight are easily damaged on trails, the saddle is a bit wide and could cause some chafing on longer rides, the large four-finger brake levers don’t feel as secure when operating with two fingers (keeping hands firmly on the grips), and there is no dropper seatpost for quick adjustments while riding. I would say that these things are minor and influenced by rider preference, but all-together they mean that the MXS may not be a great fit for a hardcore MTB enthusiast

Useful Resources:

More SONDORS Reviews

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Comments (39) YouTube Comments

Robert p herbert
5 years ago

after 1700 miles- im very very happy! The review is exact! the only thing I would change is the gearing- totally satisfactory except for super steep inclines- then you wish it had a larger rear cog-

  Reply
Tyson Roehrkasse
5 years ago

Wow, that’s a lot of miles! Thanks for your comment, great to hear :)

  Reply
Phylip Montgomery
3 years ago

Where can I buy the McD for 1700 Sondors site says it’s 2300????

Vic Puentes
3 years ago

You guys do a tremendous job with reviews!! I bought my Sondors MXS because of your review. I love my MXS and it has serviced me extremely well. I have had mine for over a year with absolutely no issues. I ride on pavement, dirt trails, fire trails, small roots and rocks. The e-bike is a goat on trails. I don’t use my e-bike for doing any jumping off anything over a few feet.

Now I need to find a way to service the Mozo front fork with a rebuild kit. I haven’t found anything on Mozo forks to get what I need. Anyone help me here???? Semper Fi Vic

5 years ago

For this price should be 10 gear cassette not a cheap old tech 7 Speed 1×7 Shimano Altus, MF-TZ500-7 14-28 Tooth Freewheel

  Reply
Tyson Roehrkasse
5 years ago

I hear you, I would definitely like to see a cassette with more range on it as well! That would raise the cost though, and the motor does help to balance it out pretty well.

  Reply
Anthony Howard
5 years ago

How do i custom tune my new MXS???

  Reply
Tyson Roehrkasse
5 years ago

Hey Anthony, if you check out the video review I included a section on tuning the advanced settings for the MXS. That covers everything I know about it; I would recommend asking on the SONDORS Forum here or one of their other groups for more detailed help :)

  Reply
Anthony Howard
5 years ago

Thanks so much, though I have to wait until the end of July to receive my MXS, I have already ordered the fender and rack kit as well. Should be delivered sometime today. Though I have never been on or used an EBIKE I like what I saw with the MXS, it looks like a LETS GO RIGHT NOW kind of bike. I can’t wait. Want to put her on some hiking trails up to Mt. Wilson north of Pasadena.

VicPuentes
5 years ago

My reason for the comment here is just trying to get as much info and learn about the Sondors MXS from people who own one. Please, any info you can pass long about your experience with the MXS would be great…

One minute I want to order the XS, and then the next the MXS. I am so trying to understand the comfort of both bikes, since the seats are the same. My plans are to ride mostly on pavement, commute, (75%) and some dirt trail riding the othr (25%). I will not be riding mountain bike paths or use for extreme downhills. To me the MXS just looks nicer without the real big tires??? To me its just so hard to order either one of these bikes without riding either one.

  Reply
Court
5 years ago

I feel ya, it can be difficult without trying in person. I haven’t reviewed either of the SONDORS (that was Tyson) but I do have experience riding city vs. fat tire ebikes, so I could chat with you for a bit if you want to text. Send your name and remind me of the two bikes so I can call you back, my number is 650.930.0342

Mark B
5 years ago

Tyson, great and thorough review, as always, and what a huge step up for Sondors. There’s one thing, though, that I don’t exactly disagree with, but I want to post a counterpoint to.

I took a nice hardtail mountain bike and converted it to a mid drive ebike, and at one point I added a dropper. It was great to be able to adjust my seat position on the fly, but there is absolutely no forgiveness on a hardtail ebike without a suspension seatpost. My lower back and rear end were getting brutalized. Sadly, I ultimately had to go with a suspension seatpost, and my dropper sits in my garage. After this experience I don’t fault Sondors for not adding a dropper.

  Reply
Tyson Roehrkasse
5 years ago

That is a great point Mark, thanks for sharing your perspective on that :)

  Reply
Jerry
5 years ago

water bottle cage mounts???
why would anyone make a bike these days without a way to have water??

  Reply
Will
5 years ago

I am considering updating my five year old IZIP E3 Dash that I have 4,000 miles on with the MXS. The MXS has many of the features I am looking for including a throttle and at a price that is reasonable.

I have two concerns that I would greatly appreciate feedback on.

I have read mixed reviews of the Bafang 750 watt motor including that it is unreliable and does not actually put out the amount of power it claims. On the other hand, it seems to be ubiquitous in the industry and is fairly inexpensive to repair or replace. Is this motor a deal breaker as some have claimed.

Lastly, I have significant hills near my home which is the reason I got involved with ebikes in the first place. Are there any impediments (other than cost) to replacing the standard cassette with a 10 or 11 speed?

Thank you for your help.

  Reply
Tyson Roehrkasse
5 years ago

Hey Will, thanks for the comment! I think Bafang makes good motors, they have had some bad models as every company does, but overall they tend to be reliable. I have heard of some ebike companies lying about the wattage of their Bafang-sourced motors (basically, being dishonest about which motor is inside the hub casing), but I’ve never seen any proof of those claims. There’s a lot of other variables such as the battery and the controller, the configuration, wheel diameter, and more factors that will affect how powerful the motor “feels”. For the MXS it definitely feels like it’s putting out full power!

There shouldn’t be any issues upgrading the cassette, my recommendation for upgrading the gearing would be a wider range cassette, you could still stick with 7 speeds and bump to maybe an 11-36 tooth or so.

  Reply
Layne
5 years ago

We own 4 Sondor’s bikes: 2 Sondors originals, a Sondors X, and an MXS. We are very pleased with the Sondor’s bikes. They’ve generally stood behind their bikes and have been responsive.

For my weight and height (6-0, 195) the MXS is a far superior configuration for all around daily riding and use. It just feels lighter and handles tighter, has much better acceleration and superior stopping power. The frame’s integration of rectangular tubing on the rear is a beautiful visual upgrade (they put in once the bike went into production.) Finally, the flame paint job is stunning. It is not a bright red like it appears to be on the website. It is a beautiful gloss metal-flake, more burnt orange than red in real life.

The MXS is a perfect balance of priorities. The only time it’s not my go to ride is if we’re going on bar/beach strand run, where the cushy floating ride of the 5-inch tires and the fat boy seats are more appealing.

  Reply
Court
5 years ago

Awesome! Thanks for sharing your stats and great experience with these bikes, Layne! Sounds like you’re really enjoying them :D

  Reply
Glenn
5 years ago

I’m trying to decide between this and the Voltbike Yukon 700. Would love to hear your opinion on which way to go.

  Reply
Court
5 years ago

Hmm, my first thought is that the style and color could be a big factor. Does one brand stand out to you more? I think the bikes are going to offer a similar experience… SONDORS is based in the US while Voltbike is Canadian. Both companies have been around for several years now, and I’ve met the founder of both. These are value/affordable ebikes, so they sacrifice on components here and there, but overall, they are still great products. I like the air fork and suspension seatpost on the MXS. How do you feel about the big plastic battery box?

  Reply
Glenn
5 years ago

Thanks for the reply Court. I actually don’t mind the plastic battery box. This would be my first E-bike so I was thinking a more value ebike would be the way to go at least for my first time out. Don’t get me wrong $1700 is still a good chunk of change so I really want to get the most bang for my buck I can get. Either way I really appreciate all you do with the reviews and the site. It has been a godsend and a huge help for me trying to figure out which way to go.

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Wonderful, I’m glad the site has been a good resource for you and hope you enjoy whichever bike you get. Sondors does seem to be doing a great job, and I kind of like their proprietary plastic battery/controller box too :)

  Reply
Anthony Howard
5 years ago

For me, I did a lot of research on Ebikes, sizes, power, quality, price range and so forth. Then I saw the MXS, and it called to me. LOL I watched reviews on it over and over again and began to to get a gut feeling and TRUST, it was and is the one for me without ever having ridden one.

I have a Helion Comp GT, medium sized, it’s nice, but I wanted something that goes beyond my limits by helping me reach then as well. That trailhead you find, and you have to ride it, see where it goes, how far, how high, or that bike path, going all out, all the way. The fresh air, Beautiful views, go further, go faster, go SONDORS!!!

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Hi Anthony, sounds like you’re ready to get one! I hope it works great for you and I appreciate your enthusiasm. SONDORS has done a great job sticking around, keeping prices low, and innovating their frame designs. I think they look cool and offer a good experience. Go SONDORS ;)

  Reply
Michel Jin
4 years ago

I am considering this or the Voltbike Outback. Same price… Sonndors is not full suspension but seems to offer more powerful motor and bigger battery. Which one is the most bang for your buck? This will be my first ebike purchase and I am excited. Thanks EBR for all your work. I can’s top watching all your videos.

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Hi Michel! That’s a great question… These models each offer something special, and I can totally see why you’d want full suspension. I like VoltBike a lot and enjoyed covering their products. The customer service seems good, though they are based on Canada vs. California USA for SONDORS. Depending on your size, weight, and climbing needs, the VoltBike Outback could be powerful enough. Without knowing more, it’s difficult to say. As someone with neck and back issues, I’d probably lean more towards suspension, but I’m only 135lbs and 5’9″ so for me, that bike is powerful enough and range isn’t an issue because I don’t enjoy riding too far :)

  Reply
James Muro
4 years ago

Hey Guys,

First, I have become addicted to this website. Such great information. I feel like an over-matched student listening to a wise professor.

I just bought my wife the Sondors Smart Step and still waiting for delivery. Meanwhile, with bad knees I too, need an ebike for the mountains of Vermont. Light single track riding, no jumps or anything crazy but some steep hills and some rocky terrain in parts. Wondering your thoughts on the MXS versus the NCM Moscow Plus? I like both bikes, like that NCM can get me the bike soon, but wondering if I get a better ride on bumpy terrain with the MXS. I welcome ANY insights from the experts!

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Court
4 years ago

Hmm, that’s a great question, James! With so many brands being sold out or having delays right now, I do think the NCM Moscow Plus could be worth it if you want to enjoy the good weather with your wife right away! SONDORS does make great products too, and it sounds like your wife and you could have matching bikes… I wonder how much longer until hers arrives? Maybe you could contact SONDORS and try to time them both to arrive at the same time? Would she mind if your NCM arrived earlier?

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Dave Taube
4 years ago

I got an MXS at the end of 2019, but didn’t ride it because 1) weather; 2) I was a little unsure what was involved with riding an electric bike. As soon as the weather got nice in the Spring, I hopped on my bike and I’ve been LOVING it ever since. I ride almost exclusively on pavement but I’ve taken it out on some easy gravel trails. I love the performance of the MSX. I live at the top of a very steep mile long hill and my main concern was the ability of the bike to make it to the top of the hill. While I can easily ride up the hill, most of the top at the maximum 5 electric boost, other far more serious riders (you know, the kind who wear Spandex and jerseys that advertise all sorts of companies) have to zigzag back and forth in order to make it to the top of the hill. I’m 5’10” and the bike fits me perfectly. Not sure if it’s too small for someone much taller than me. Highly recommended. I didn’t want to wait for the rear bag/fender kit that you can get from Sondors, so I bought an Ibera rack and bag on Amazon. You have to get a rack that mounts onto the seat post since the bike is unique and you won’t find a rack that has arms that fit the frame. Other than that, everything is great!

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Sweet! I enjoyed reading your comment, Dave. Sounds like you’re really enjoying the bike and I’m glad you figured out a good rack solution. Thanks for passing along this info and sharing how well the SONDORS MXS has performed. Ride safe!

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Roy
4 years ago

I waited over 2 months for my MXS and after 1 week and 100 miles, it was well worth the wait. The EBR review was spot-on in all aspects. This bike is so much fun to ride. Having 2 road bikes and 2 mountain bikes, I was intrigued with the possibility of going 28 MPH with little effort. Hitting the ripe old age of 60, my 60-70 mile, 20 MPH avg. speed rides are a thing of the past. I find the pedal assist is perfect in getting me up some significant inclines and allows me to extend my rides. I did let the battery drain down to zero about 5 miles away from my home. This is a big, heavy bike and it is no fun on pedal power alone. Components and build Quality are very good. It really is a screaming value. During a ride today, I was stopped 3 times asking “what kind of bike is that”. Time will tell with the durability of the battery and motor. However, all in all, I could not be any more pleased with my purchase. Go Sondors!

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Tyson Roehrkasse
4 years ago

Hey Roy, thanks for the detailed comment! I’m glad to hear that you’re enjoying the MXS so far. I had a lot of fun reviewing it and just wished I could have ridden it for longer!

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Roy
4 years ago

Just to let everyone know, they have changed the display design. More edge to edge visibility, smaller, super bright. Only 5 settings for pedal assist which I find is OK.
The only thing is the the USB port is not on the side anymore. There is a cable with a connector that comes from the back of the unit and has a separate USB mount for the handle bars. It’s OK, just takes up real estate on the handle bars.

Brian
4 years ago

Hey Tyson, great review. I got a lot of insight about the MSX.

I am 6’4″ and 220 lbs. Do you think MSX is too small for me? How did it feel when you rode it at 6’3?

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Court
4 years ago

Hi Brian, it should work alright. They designed the product to be approachable by a wide range of riders, and you are definitely on the taller end of the spectrum. It’s pretty affordable to get a different (longer) stem and seat post if necessary. You could optimize fit by purchasing a Trek, Giant, Specialized or other product that comes in five sizes, but that will cost a lot extra. If you like the SONDORS, my guess is that it will be workable and you’ll just be more upright and potentially have your knees closer to the handlebar without modification. Most of the other comparably priced ebikes will only come in one size that is very similar, so it’s really about price and knowledge that a standard 31.8mm stem and longer seat post and sliding the saddle back can improve your fit. There are also stem elongater products for taller people that I’ve seen but not tested :)

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Bill Collins
4 years ago

Really have enjoyed your reviews. They helped me decide what to buy. I also have a Trek Verve 2 which got me started in the Electric direction. As I am older (69) biking has helped me lose 25 lbs but I wanted that throttle to help the ride. I ride with my daughter and my new Sondors MXS is better than I expected. Delivery delays were a nightmare and bike took a month longer than promised.

Power, comfort, and handling are fantastic. Truly a great urban bike. Wheels are so light and the pedal assist is stupid fast and effortless. Display is great compared to Trek.

Things I would have Sondors change are to have setup for bottle holder, instructions (videos) need to reflect changes they have made in assembly, throttle needs to be a little better at modulation, and accessories need to be available when bikes are shipped, waiting two months for rack/fenders is not smart. Last but not least is NOT send me emails saying bike has shipped when it did not.

Electric bikes are going to continue growing and manufacturers need to get better at all aspects of sales/service/assembly for a high priced product. (IMO)

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Hi Bill! Sorry to hear that it took longer than expected fro your MXS to arrive AND that they sent an update that was incorrect… that must have been very frustrating. You’ve got a good attitude, and I think you’re correct about the industry expanding! Some companies are doing an excellent job with customer support, but that can add to the cost of the bike. I agree that having a throttle is nice. Enjoy the ride, and thanks for the comment :)

  Reply

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