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In 2017, Trek introduced a Class 3 high speed (28 mph) electric bike call the Super Commuter+ 8S. It was only available in sporty gloss red but came in four frame sizes, offered top-end drivetrain components from Shimano, and premium lights from Supernova… and the price was $5k. For 2018, Trek introduced a specced down Super Commuter+ 7 which rides a bit slower, offers 10 speeds instead of 11, and only comes in satin black. This model is priced quite a bit lower at $3.6k and could be an excellent fit for value-conscious riders who appreciate the vast network of dealers that Trek offers, where you can get fitted and serviced over time. It’s designed around the same beautiful hydroformed alloy frame and still includes a carbon fiber fork with sturdy 15 mm thru-axle design. The reinforced rims and spokes match the black color theme, along with the stem, handlebar, seat post, pedal cranks, and other minor hardware elements. Other trade-offs include a slower 2 amp battery charger vs. 4 amp (despite offering the same Bosch PowerPack 500 battery), and a smaller 17-tooth chainring vs. 20 tooth (which helped to match pedal cadence for higher speeds on the 8S). Trek has been an innovator and leader in the electric bicycle space since 2011 when I reviewed FX+ and Transport+ models. Note how beautifully the PowerPack battery has been integrated into the downtube here, keeping weight low and center for improved stability and handling. The motor is tipped up, raising ground clearance and blending it into the frame. Trek has included an alloy skid plate to protect the motor as well as an alloy derailleur guard to keep the drivetrain safe at bike racks and tips. From the sturdy (and quiet) alloy fenders to the streamlined pannier hanger rear rack, almost every hardware choice feels like a win… But I’m not a big fan of the cage style pedals or the non-adjustable kickstand. I’d probably upgrade to magnesium platform pedals like these. I would also strongly consider adding a 31.6 mm suspension seat post to further reduce vibration and jar… It’s not as critical for a Class 1 20 mph electric bike like this, especially with the larger tires, but for riders who plan on longer trips or have to navigate rough conditions, the aggressive performance frame can still introduce neck, shoulder, and back fatigue.
Driving the Super Commuter Plus 7 is a Bosch Performance Line Cruise mid-motor rated from 250 to 570 watts with peak torque output of 63 Newton meters. The torque rating is important because it allows you to start quickly and climb effectively with the 10-speed cassette. The bike feels zippy and allows you to shift smoothly with motor controller shift detection, so you don’t mash gears and wear the chain down. The chainring is a 17 tooth design which spins 2.5 times for every crank arm revolution. This requires an internal gearbox, and I was told by Bosch that the smaller ring allows for excellent chain retention… trek has reduced the possibility for chain drops by including an alloy chainring guard from Miranda that doubles as a pant protector. In my own experience, the chainring starts and stops extremely quickly, making the Bosch Performance Line one of the most responsive motors on the market. I love that it can assist up to 120 RPM because I tend to enjoy spinning and revving to reach high speeds vs. shifting down and lumbering along. Frankly, you can ride however you’d like and the motor will be there to support you in a powerful but intuitive way. The motor controller measures rear wheel speed, pedal cadence, and pedal torque over 1,000 times per second and you can really tell it’s working on a bike like the Super Commuter+ 7 that costs so efficiently. The bike feels smooth and fast, the components are attached well and don’t make a lot of noise (aside from the kickstand bouncing occasionally) but the motor does produce a noticeable whine at the higher RPMs when riding in the upper levels of assist. I tried to demonstrate this in the video review by pedaling quickly in the highest level of support, called Turbo. On some ebikes, mostly mountain models, the whine is masked by knobby tires and the sounds of gravel and organic material along the trail, but you really hear it on smooth pavement and that might annoy some people. I definitely appreciate how compact the motor is, how it’s mounted up and into the frame, and that Trek designed a smooth alloy skid plate that they call “Motor Armor” to protect it from any tall curbs or other urban obstacles you might encounter out in the real world. This motor combined with the Shimano derailleur, which I would consider mid-level, produces a quick shifting experience, and you get access to an adjustable one-way clutch to tighten the chain for bumpy terrain. This feature is usually reserved for mountain bikes and made sense on the Class 3 8S Super Commuter, but it’s a welcome addition here too. Note also, the upper and lower rubber slap guards that keep the chain stay paint from getting banged up.
For both the 8S and Super Commuter+ 7, Trek opted for the high-capacity Bosch PowerPack 500 battery. It’s the highest capacity battery made by Bosch for electric bicycles at the time of this review, and yet it fits into the same compact form factor as the Bosch PowerPack 400, only weighing 0.3 lbs more. This pack is great because it uses the same charging port when mounted or being charged off the frame and has a plastic handle design at the top for safe, easy lifting. It locks to the frame securely but does require a strong push to click into place, I tried to demonstrate this in the video review because it would be a shame if the pack bounced out somehow and got damaged… note however, that this is much less likely with the Super Commuter frame design because of the cupped battery interface. You’re really getting a compromise of flexibility, lighter weight, and lower cost from the PowerPack design here compared to the new PowerTube design from Bosch. I have compared both back to back in this video. Since the frame is black, the default black battery casing matches perfectly and stays fairly hidden. The charging port on the left side of the downtube is a bit vulnerable to the left crank arm, so be careful moving the bike when charging. I often remove the battery on electric bikes before transporting or servicing them, and I also tend to charge separately because I don’t have room inside for the bike itself. By storing Lithium-ion battery packs like this in a cool, dry location, you will maximize their lifespan. And again, since the PowerPack 400 and 500 are so common, you should be able to rent or borrow batteries on location or bring a spare to extend your ride. Expect upwards of 30 miles per charge and possibly over 80 depending on your level of assist, weight, and conditions. As mentioned earlier, the Super Commuter+ 7 does not have the faster four amp Bosch charger, so expect slightly longer fill times between rides.
Powering the bike on is a very simple process once the battery is charged and mounted… You operate the bike using the compact Bosch Purion display panel, which is mounted within thumb’s reach of the left grip. First, press the power button along the top edge, then click the plus or minus keys to raise or lower assist power. It’s really that simple, and you don’t even need to look down in order to hear and feel a click and know that you’ve made a change. I do not like the Purion as much as it’s big brother, the Intuvia, because this display is not removable, does not have a Micro-USB charging port (just a diagnostics port), and doesn’t show as many menus and readouts. Frankly, the buttons don’t feel as reliable or solid either. It’s nice to have such a compact display, especially because it frees up the center of the bars for the Supernova light, but my gripes here are only in comparison to one of, if not the best, display panel/control pad systems out there. So here’s the secret, in order to navigate through menus on the Purion you just hold the minus key for a second (this shows odometer, trip meter, range, and assist level) and if you want to change from miles to kilometers you just hold the minus key and tap the power button (though it sometimes didn’t work and really confused me at first), and if you want to clear your trip meter, just hold the minus key when in the trip readout and then hold the plus button until you see RESET. It seems simple now, but when you’re out there on the path, it can become a little confusing… especially if the bike keeps shutting off with that minus and power combination. Trek has also purposefully disabled walk mode on their electric bikes, so the walk button at the base of the display just does nothing. This could disappoint some people who want the extra help pushing the bike while carrying groceries or ascending hills aside walking friends while conversing etc.
The Trek Super Commuter platform is beautiful, sturdy, and feature rich. I’ve been a longtime fan of the Bosch drive system and appreciate the sporty Performance Line Cruise motor here. If you are alright with a 20 mph Class 1 electric bicycle, you’ll save some money and get better range here than with the 8S… all without compromising too much on actual ride quality. The Schwalbe Super Moto-X tires are durable and comfortable, the 180 mm Shimano hydraulic disc brakes are easy to use and feature adjustable levers. Five frame sizes means you’ll fit the bike properly, and the Trek dealer network means that you’ll get some help in that process. I was really excited to see the new Super Commuter+ 7 and test it in the rain because the fenders are much nicer than I see on other ebikes. They are quiet, fairly wide (about 70 mm), and integrate well with the rear light and rack. Yes, I still got a little wet when turning and positioning my feet forward and down, but it was much better than having no fenders. Big thanks to Helen’s Cycles in Santa Monica California for letting me test ride one of their showroom floor models! We got the bike wet and dirty, and they volunteered to clean it up… and this is another great point, the electronic systems from Bosch are all very well sealed against water. Trek has used a sealed bearing design for their steering headset and bottom bracket spindle integration so you won’t get rust and creaking. Final thoughts: the brakes here are a step down from the 8S but still very good (Shimano M316), you only get 10 speeds vs. eleven but that’s a great fit for 20 mph (and I was able to reach 23 mph pedaling briskly on flats), and neither wheel offers quick release so you’ll need a tool for fixes on the go (a 6 mm hex for the front wheel and 5 mm hex for the rear). Big thanks to Trek for partnering with me on this post! I’ll do my best to answer questions in the comments below as well as the Trek electric bike forums.
Pros:
- One of the best looking Bosch Powerpack battery integrations I have seen, it’s sunk into the downtube but still easy to get off for charging, there’s even room for two sets of bosses for a bottle cage and folding lock on the seat tube and below the top tube!
- Beautiful wire integration and nice paint job, note how most of the hardware is black to match the frame (spokes, stem, handlebar, seat post, crank arms), I also appreciate how tucked and streamlined the motor casing is here (they angled it up to blend with the frame and raise ground clearance)
- Surprisingly comfortable considering it’s built around an all Aluminum frame with rigid fork, the carbon fiber materials of the fork dampen vibration and the larger 2.4″ wide Schwalbe Supermoto-X tires can be deflated slightly to absorb bumps and deep cracks
- The tubular fenders and rear rack are tight and sturdy, they didn’t rattle at all during my test ride and they kept me clean when riding through puddles)
- Nice alloy motor skid plate, chainring guard, and derailleur guard, they should provide more than enough protection against curbs and urban obstacles, this is almost mountain bike level armor
- Despite the stock photo only showing a top side chainstay slap guard, the demo model I tested had a lower slap guard as well, this combines with the Shadow Plus clutch on the derailleur to keep the chain tight and avoid chips along the right chain stay
- Very sturdy rims, they’re alloy, double wall, 32 hole, and have reinforcement eyelets to handle heavier loads and rough streets, I don’t know the max weight of the bike but would estimate 300+ lbs based on similar models, the rack also didn’t have a weight rating but I’d guess up to 40 lbs
- The Trek Super Commuter is available in five frame sizes, so even though they are all diamond high-step style, you should be able to dial in fit and ride comfortably, since the rear rack is so slim and doesn’t have a flat top, you should be able to swing your leg up and over comfortably
- Awesome hydraulic disc brakes from Shimano, full 180 mm rotors front and rear provide plenty of smooth stopping power, I like the adjustable reach levers for people who wear gloves or have smaller (or larger) hands
- The Shimano Deore M6000 derailleur and 10-speed cassette provide plenty of comfortable pedaling options at a wide range of speed… and you can do multi-gear shifts (three at a time) when going from high to low gears, it’s cool that the Bosch mid-motors offer shift detection so you won’t damage the chain, sprockets, and derailleur as easily
- Premium integrated lights from Supernova, the headlight produces 205 lumens and is aimable (I’d suggest mounting it below the bar vs. above so you can point it down and not blind cars and other cyclists), the lights automatically come on whenever the bike is powered up
- The ergonomic grips felt surprisingly comfortable and the narrow handlebar felt like it could squeeze between cars and other tight spaces, I would consider swapping the 31.6 mm seat post with a suspension post from Body Float with a shim, Thudbuster, or SR Suntour or possibly the new Redshift Sports Shockstop post
- Sturdy tapered head tube and a 15 mm thru-axle with Maxle style quick release provide the kind of power transfer and precision control that you want at high speed… this bike originally launched in a 28 mph speed version so I feel like it’s almost overkill for the 20 mph version here, the quick release is useful for transporting the bike, I like that the battery pack is easily removable as well, to reduce weight when servicing
- Wide-open diamond frames like this are extra stiff, offering better power transfer and lower weight to strength ratio, it’s easier to lift and hang on some bike racks
- Awesome derailleur guard (curved piece of black metal designed to protect it from side swipes or if the bike tips), I hadn’t seen this design before and it looks great
- I love that the battery pack can be charged on or off the bike and uses the same plug port design so you don’t need any extra adapters (like with the Shimano drive system and charger on some other Trek models), the plug cover on the left side of the bike is also very secure and tight to keep dust and water out while riding
- I can’t confirm this but the detailed specs said that the locking core for the battery pack is made by ABUS (though the key I had said AXA), sometimes you can get the key code for the battery and get a matched ABUS folding lock like this
- The Bosch Performance Line motors can support up to 120 RPM pedal rotation which allows for more natural riding without mandatory shifts, I have noticed some other motors drop out at lower RPM and then require you to shift to a higher gear to raise speed
- The rear rack uses standard gauge tubing that’s compatible with most clip-on panniers, it has notches to keep bags from sliding forward and back on the rails, it connects to the fender for extra strength, and there are loops at the bottom for bungee or velcro connectors at the base of some bags
- The fork uses Trek’s patented OCLV carbon fiber processing technique which is designed to be lightweight vs. aluminum alloy but just as strong and stiff, it stands for Optimum Compaction Low Void
- The PowerPack 500 battery interface is backwards compatible to work with the PowerPack 400 and that makes it easier to rent packs, borrow, or get a good deal on a second battery, it’s just easier to travel with this bike because of the universal nature of the battery from Bosch
Cons:
- Clicking the battery into place was a little finicky, I made sure to pull the key out (so that the locking core was ready to catch) and pressed down firmly to hear it click, I also cleared the wires inside the downtube area because they are pretty tight near the mounting mechanism
- Only one color choice… the satin black looks great with the black motor casing, battery pack, and wires, but it isn’t as visible from the sides as red, white, silver or some other bright color… thankfully the reflective paint accents and integrated lights help, but the tires aren’t reflective from the side
- The stock photo shows a larger adjustable-length kickstand but the shop model I tested had a non-adjustable alloy stand that let the bike tip pretty far to the left, this is a minor gripe but it wasn’t my favorite stand
- The Bosch Purion display panel is compact and provides plenty of space for the Supernova E3 headlight, but it isn’t removable, doesn’t have a 5 Volt Micro-USB charging port like the Bosch Intuvia, and doesn’t show power output or shift recommendation (some shops will let you upgrade to the larger Intuvia display panel if you pay extra for the part and labor, it may take some adjustment to fit with the headlight)
- Even though the Super Commuter+ 7 is less expensive than the 8 (which is a speed pedelec) it is still one of the more expensive electric bikes because it comes with premium hardware and a broad network of dealers to take test rides and get service, a two-year comprehensive warranty with lifetime warranty on the frame
- My feet aren’t huge but I do appreciate wider pedals and would probably swap the narrow Wellgo M-21 cages with something like these Wellgo BMX magnesium pedals with adjustable pins, you can get them in black, red, silver, or white to match or customize the bike
- The current generation of Bosch centerdrive motors use an internal gearbox that spins the chainring at 2.5x per crank arm revolution and this creates a bit of resistance (very, very little) but also some noise, even when riding without power, and when it is powered up, you get a distinct high pitch whine, especially at higher RPMs
- Compared to the Super Commuter+ 8, which has a faster 4 amp charger, the Super Commuter+ 7 has a 2 amp which will take longer but doesn’t wiegh as much or take quite as much space… considering that the batteries are both the same capacity, it’s too bad they don’t include a 4 amp here as well
- The cover for the battery charging port clicks in securely and is easier to use than a rubber grommet but the plug itself is in the motion path of the left crank arm which could result in a snag if you move the bike while charging
- I think it’s lame that the Micro-USB port on the Bosch Purion display panel is disabled for charging accessories… only used for firmware updates, and I wish that Trek wasn’t disabling walk mode on their products because this ebike weighs ~51 lbs and would be difficult to push with a flat tire, or just walking through grass at a park etc. many other companies have not disable walk mode but Trek seems to be extra careful with this, Trek also forces the lights to be on at all times as a part of their ABC (always on, biomotion, contrast) safety initiative… but sometimes I want the lights off to save power or to reduce distraction/irritation if I’m riding with a group of people
Resources:
Glenn
6 years agoHi Court, again, thank you for all the great e-bike reviews. Your reviews helped me to decide on the Trek SC +7. I picked it up last Friday at my LBS “Trek Bike Sacramento Midtown.” The staff there are awesome and provided my wife and I a great deal on both the SC +7 and a Electra Townie Commute 8i, which we should have soon. I have a 15+- mike bike commute to my office, about 12+- miles of which are along the beautiful American River Bike Trail the runs 32 miles along the American River Parkway, from downtown Sacramento to Folsom. Both the Trek SC +7 and the Electra Townie Commute 8i are Class 1 e-bike and are therefore permitted on the AR Bike Trail, Class 3 e-bikes are not, so that played a major part our decision. I am getting ready to head into my office for the second e-bike commute day. On my e-bike commute yesterday, I was able to shower at home before heading in, and arrived at the office fresh and ready for the workday. I’ll be 65 next month, and have been an insulin dependent Type-1 diabetic for about 35 years, so this will play a major role in my health management as well. The commute along the AR Bike Trail was beautiful and inspiring. I have been a cyclist all of my life, and bike commuted several years back, but the SC +7 will allow me to get back into bike commuting to work, and once my wife’s Electra Townie Commute 8i arrives, we will be able to go further and get up some of the steeper hills along the bike trail and a 12% grade leading up to our house from the AR Bike trail, with less effort. I wasn’t sure how to attach a photo of my SC +7 setup, but can do so in a future reply if you are interested. Thanks again, Glenn
Replycourt
6 years agoAwesome! I loved reading your story, Glenn. Please do share some pictures with us, you can upload to the EBR Trek Forums here or the bike garage here and I’m here to help answer any questions that come up with account creation (which takes a day because we approve them all manually to reduce spam).
ReplyGlenn
6 years agoThanks for the reply Court. My wife mentioned that I didn’t say enough about the bike. It is amazing. It is rock solid and handles very well. It is nice getting the trickle down technology from the Class 3 SC +8. I was able to make good time on the commute and at least for the first 2 days I didn’t receive any negative comments or glares from other riders on the American River Bike Trail, which I was initially concerned about, even though the Class 1 e-bike is fully legal on the AR Bike trail. Their are posted signs that read “No Motorized Vehicles”, so I could see where someone might make a challenge? I don’t think most riders really care what you are riding as long as you are doing so responsibly, and I don’t think most people even recognize what the SC +7 is. I’ve only seen a few other e-bikes on the trail, but nothing as cool as the SC +7. With the pedal assist limited to 20 mph it’s easy to slow down to 15 mph or so when passing joggers or bike riders. i actually rode a lot faster in 5+ rider pace lines when I was cycling weekly on the same trail a few years ago before that group disbursed. I think that was more intimidating to other trail users. All that to say, the Class 1 e-bike seems to be a good fit for the bike trail. One thing I have noticed is the seat isn’t very comfortable. I ride a Fizik Arione on my road bike that is much more comfortable, but the SC +7 sits you more upright than the road bike so I was wondering if you had any suggestions? I was also curious about suspension seat post, from what I’ve read the Body Float seems to be favored by most, but it’s pricey (but may be worth the $$$). Do you have any saddle or suspension seat post recommendations for the SC +7? Thanks again, Glenn
Chris
6 years agoHey Court.
I have the 2018 super commuter +8s here in the USA. I love that bike and thank you so much for your review on it, it helped me a lot in my research.
I just wanted to mention that my bike came with walk enabled and the headlight off by default. I don’t know if this is normal or not, but that’s how mine is. To turn on the headlight I have to hold down the + button, and i think I have to hold it down for longer than you did in this video. Once on it does switch between daytime lights and full headlight automatically.
As for the walk assist, I first have to press the + or – to get it it show an assist level, and before it goes away I press the walk button which enables the walk mode. Then before that goes away I have to hold down the + button to make it go.
I do believe the demo bike I tried was like the one you tired (headlight always on, walk disabled), but I had to special order a different frame size. Maybe the demo bikes are set up a particular way for added safety and bought bikes are set up for more options? Maybe it also depends on local laws?
Anyways, thanks again for all the great reviews, your reviews are so helpful when searching for an ebike and for keeping up with all the latest news about them.
Replycourt
6 years agoThis is great feedback, Chris. Thanks for chiming in… I met with Trek recently for a launch event and learned that walk mode has been enabled for 2018 electric bikes. Perhaps some of the demo bikes for 2017 were setup the old way and you got one from the latest batch? You described the function perfectly, thanks again for adding these details so that other people can test it out if walk mode is an important feature for their riding style :)
ReplyGlenn
6 years agoHi Chris and Court. I purchased my 2018 SC +7 on June 29th, the walk mode is disabled, and the lights default to the on position. I am wondering if my LBS (Trek Midtown Sacramento) can activate these features when I bring it in for a follow-up tuning? I will update once I find out.
Replycourt
6 years agoHi, Glenn! Thanks for chiming in. Perhaps this can be done by your local bike shop. I’d love to hear back, so thanks for offering to keep us updated :D
ReplyJean
6 years agoI purchased the 2018 SC +7 today (August 3, 2018), and have ridden it 10 miles and had to stop due to heavy rain and thunderstorms. My first impression is wow, what a nice bike. I do like the bike (this is my second electric bike) but I have a few comments.
First I did not receive an owners manual for the bike itself. I did receive the Bosch electric bike manual for the motor, battery and display. But I also want a manual for the bike so I know how to clean, how to change a tire, or information on the brakes, lights, etc. This is the first new bike I have ever purchased and there is no information on it and it is not a pdf on the web site. Any idea why Trek has avoided an owner’s manual for this bike?
The slow battery charge will drive me crazy and I would like to find the faster charger and buy it. Checking with the dealer who sold me the bike, but any ideas on where to find one, please let me know.
On my rides today, I went through the various modes; eco, tour, sport and turbo. I could not tell much difference between the various modes, and a couple of times when in the turbo mode, it felt like the bike suddenly decided it was time to get moving. I’ll have to play with this some. Shifting is very nice and easy. Seems to be intuitive. The ride on this bike is very comfortable. I did not feel like it was jarring even when riding over some gravel and bumps in the road. The battery charger port on the bike itself, is not secure. The ring around the hole fell out a couple of times. I think for that kind of money, Trek could improve that.
I like the step over. I had a step through (I’m an old lady) and had difficulty getting on and off the bike. The step over seems a lot easier and better for getting on and off the bike and starting and stopping, or maybe my non-electric bike years just trained me for that.
ReplyCourt
6 years agoWonderful comments there, Jean! Thanks for taking the time to share with us! I agree that a user manual would be nice to have, and wonder which charger you got… is it the smaller portable charger that puts out 2 amps? Bosch also has a 4 amp charger which would go almost twice as fast. Maybe you could order one of these online or ask your Trek shop about it :)
Replytom
6 years agoCourt,
I really appreciate the site and the work you do. Keep it up.
Any comment on the Trek SC 7 versus the iZip E3 Moda? They seem somewhat similar except for the top speed (as a road cyclist 28 mph seems too fast for me).
At the moment there is +/- $1,000 difference in favor of the Moda.
By the way, with no offense, Panner (Pan ear) is a Indian Cheese. Pannier (pan yeh) is for a rearbag on a bike.
tom
ReplyCourt
6 years agoHaha, thanks for the pronunciation help Tom ;) I do think that the IZIP E3 Moda is a decent option. Are they still using the Brose motor for 2019? That’s all I could find on the website and my last coverage was from 2018. Trek looks cooler to me and I prefer the Bosch drive system for reliability. Their battery pack tends to be tougher and I like the shift sensing feature. Is it worth $1,000? I guess it depends on your budget. I think the Trek would have higher resale value and you might be able to find it easier since they have a huge network of dealers. It’s a tough call, glad you’re enjoying the site here though :D
ReplyNathan
6 years agoThank you for the very thorough review. I work at a Trek dealer that sells these bikes. I thought people might be interested to know that we have the ability to enable walk-assist, and to enable the functionality of switching the lights on/off. Even though these features are turned off by default, it is a quick and easy change using the PC interface software that dealers are provided with.
ReplyCourt
6 years agoThat’s great feedback, Nathan! Thanks for chiming in about this. I remember asking a couple years back when I covered one of the mountain models, but Trek didn’t have this position at the time. It seems like the company and you dealers have been listening and providing great service. Trek is one of my favorite ebike brands this year :)
Reply