VeloMini 3 Speed Review

Velomini 3 Speed Electric Bike Review 1
Velomini Review
Front Wheel Brake Motor
Rear Fender And Light Velomini
Twist And Go Velomini Throttle
180 Watt Hub Motor Velomini
Velomini Folded
Velomini Folded Flat
Velomini 3 Speed Electric Bike Review 1
Velomini Review
Front Wheel Brake Motor
Rear Fender And Light Velomini
Twist And Go Velomini Throttle
180 Watt Hub Motor Velomini
Velomini Folded
Velomini Folded Flat

Summary

  • Light weight, stable and strong sliding-triangle folding frame design
  • Offers three internal gears for pedaling at various speeds along with pedal assist and twist throttle electric modes
  • Capable of supporting up to 230 pounds, upgraded 9 amp hour battery, solid one year warranty

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

VeloMini

Model:

3 Speed

Price:

$1,295 USD

Body Position:

Upright

Suggested Use:

Urban, Commuting

Electric Bike Class:

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

Warranty:

1 Year Comprehensive

Availability:

United States, Canada

Model Year:

20132014

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

33 lbs (14.96 kg)

Frame Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Geometry Measurements:

18" High When Folded

Frame Types:

Folding

Frame Colors:

Cool Silver, Midnight Black, Intense Red, Deep Blue

Attachment Points:

Fender Bosses

Gearing Details:

3 Speed 1x3 Shimano Internally Geared Hub

Pedals:

Folding Plastic Platform

Brake Details:

Front V-Brake, Rear Band Brake

Wheel Sizes:

12 in (30.48cm)

Accessories:

Kickstand, Front and Rear Fenders, Rear LED Light, Protective Case, Carry Strap, Tool Kit

Other:

Maximum Weight 230 lbs

Electronic Details

Motor Type:

Front-Mounted Geared Hub
Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

180 watts

Battery Voltage:

24 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

9 ah

Battery Watt Hours:

216 wh

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-ion

Charge Time:

3 hours

Estimated Min Range:

9 miles (14 km)

Estimated Max Range:

12 miles (19 km)

Drive Mode:

Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist, Twist Throttle

Top Speed:

12 mph (19 kph)


Written Review

When comparing the VeloMini 3 Speed to it’s less expensive little brother, the 1 Speed, what do you really get? Well, for an extra $250 you get to choose from three additional colors: black, blue and red. You get three more amp hours (50% more) in the battery pack (this lets you go further), six months of additional warranty time on the battery pack and of course you get two extra gears! The only downside, besides the price, is that this bike is two pounds heavier.

Depending on your financial situation this bike can be a wonderful little upgrade from the 1 Speed and offers all of the same benefits that VeloMini is known for. The frame is designed to create space between the seat and handlebars, positioning the rider for more stability, comfort and easier pedaling. The triangle design of the seatpost is super strong and overall this bike just feels solid, especially for something so small and foldable.

As far as motor specs go, this bike is on the weaker side. It offers a geared 180 watt front hub motor and the battery pack provides 240 volts of power. By comparison, the strongest full sized ebikes like Pedego’s Interceptor offer up to 500 watt motors with 48 volts of power. Keep in mind however, that the Pedego weighs 60 pounds! The VeloMini really is built half for riding and half for storing and carrying.

The 3 Speed has its pedaling gears built right into the rear hub which means it doesn’t require a derailleur. This allows the chain to remain tight and straight and requires less maintenance ant tuning. The fact that this ebike offer three speeds, whereas most ultra-compact ebikes only offer one, means you can climb hills easier and go faster when pedaling. The motor is the same as the 1 Speed VeloMini however and it works well enough in both pedal assist and twist and go mode but don’t expect to win any races with this bike. It’s a lot faster than walking but truthfully, given the small form factor, higher speeds can start to feel unstable.

The Lithium-ion battery pack is tucked inside the square aluminum downtube and isn’t easily removable. You really have to plug the entire bike in which might make it less convenient as a work transporter if your employer won’t let you bring your bike inside. The handlebars and pedals fold down and the bike itself gets very compact at just 18″ tall when complete. The folding design is long and skinny so it’s perfect for storing upright on one end and leaning against a wall.

All VeloMini bikes include a nice bag, carry strap and charger so you’ve basically got everything needed from the get go. In addition to these basic accessories there are actually a lot of really cool extras available through their website. There are baskets for the front, rear racks for the seatpost, lights that shine down under the bike like a street racer (you can match the color of your frame) and even a trailer for pulling cargo! These upgrades amaze me because the bike is so compact and niche, it’s hard to imagine pulling a trailer, but that’s part of the fun this brand offers.

The VeloMini culture is easy to admire and their warranty and user friendly website instills a lot of trust in the brand. I love that the bike comes stock with fenders and a little rear brake light. I really don’t have many complaints about the bike, it works well for what it’s intended. To me it’s worth upgrading for the extra range and warranty here, even with the 2lb weight increase.

Pros:

  • Folds flat and long, takes up very little space when stored one one end
  • Lots of fun accessories including seat racks, baskets, lights, a trailer and carry bags
  • Strong folding-triangle design used to support seatpost
  • Offers both pedal assist and twist and go mode
  • Simple, intuitive controls are durable
  • V-brakes on the front, band style hub brake on the rear
  • Wider seat to handlebar span is more comfortable than other compact folding ebikes
  • Great 1 year warranty for the frame and battery pack
  • Includes a case a carry strap for easier transport

Cons:

  • Weaker 180 watt hub motor paired with 24 volt battery pack
  • Battery is built into the frame so you have to plug the whole bike in vs. detaching a battery alone
  • Small 12″ wheels don’t offer as much shock absorption or traverse gaps and potholes like a larger wheel would
  • No front headlight, just a rear brake light
  • No LCD or fancy computer display for distance, speed etc.
  • Top throttle speed 12 miles per hour
  • No chain cover, though there is a plastic bash guard

Resources:

More VeloMini Reviews

VeloMini Plus Review

  • MSRP: $1,295
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016, 2017

One of the lightest, most compact, folding electric bikes I have tested, it folds down quickly and doesn't rattle around or come undone very easily because the seat post secures it. An integrated headlight, independent rear light, and bright glossy white frame help you to see…...

VeloMini 1 Speed Review

  • MSRP: $1,095
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013, 2014

One of the lightest weight folding electric bikes available anywhere. Only offers one gear, small 180 watt motor and a maximum throttle speed of 12mph...

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