An exceptionally affordable, feature rich electric bike, built around an approachable frame that's easier to mount and stand over, offers pedal assist and throttle override operation
The battery pack is protected by the top tube, positioned low and center along the frame for balance, can be charged on or off the bike, and has a USB charging port for accessories
Fairly comfortable thanks to a basic suspension fork, adjustable angle stem, and ergonomic grips, the Kenda tires are basic (no reflective paint or puncture protection) but offer a good PSI range and hybrid tread
Entry-level derailleur with a bulky shifter, basic mechanical disc brakes that require more hand strength to actuate than hydraulic, bouncy and somewhat noisy fenders, only one frame size
Kenda Small Block Eight, 26" x 2.1" (54-559) (650x52B)
Wheel Sizes:
26 in (66.04cm)
Tire Details:
30TPI Casing, Wire Bead, 30 to 80 PSI
Tube Details:
Schrader Valve
Accessories:
Plastic Fenders with Rubber Flaps, Plastic Chain Cover with Reflector, Integrated Blaze-Lite LED Headlight with Reflector, Integrated Generic LED Backlight with Reflector, Flick Bell, Adjustable Length Kickstand Rear-Mount, Free DOT Approved Helmet
Other:
Locking Removable Downtube Mounted Battery Pack with LED Charge Indicator, 5 Volt Full Sized USB Charging Port on Right Side of Battery, 1.1 lb 2 Amp Charger, KMC Rust Resistant Z Chain, Steel Derailleur Guard
Independent Button Pad (+, -, Power), Double Press Power Button for Settings Menu, Hold + for Backlight and Integrated Lights, Hold - for Walk Mode
Drive Mode:
Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist
(12 Magnet Disc)
Top Speed:
20 mph (32 kph)(Adjustable Top Speed)
Written Review
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The VoltBike Elegant was massively updated for 2017, the price rose by $200 over the original but this is still one of the most affordable, feature-rich electric bikes I have tested. And now, the rear rack is quieter, stronger and better looking. It no longer has to support the battery box, which has been integrated into the downtube for improved frame balance. The motor is twice as powerful and has been spoked into the rear wheel vs. the front which improves steering and traction. The bike still has integrated LED lights for safety but the tires are not reflective like they used to be. You can get the Elegant in two colors however, including a matte white which is more reflective. But the matte paint has a funky look to it, in my opinion, and the white could show more dirt and become an off-white or yellow with use over time. Even though this upgraded VoltBike Elegant model does not offer the super low-step wave frame design, I feel that it’s very approachable, easy to stand over and handle, and is a lot stiffer and stronger. The wheels offer 36 holes vs. 32 and use a 13 gauge spoke thickness for improved strength which could accommodate larger riders or heavy rear-rack loads. The rear rack is rated up to 55 lbs and is setup with pannier guards and a loop towards the base of the support arms for use with a bungee cord. There’s a whole lot to cover with this e-bike and I want to praise the inclusion of a derailleur guard, which also protects the motor power cable, and integrated USB charging port on the battery pack. These are little things that can sometimes get overlooked. Areas that I feel are average or below average in terms of build and performance are the square tapered spindle vs. splined which isn’t as strong, the entry-level Shimano Tourney derailleur and thumb shifter which might require more tuneups and don’t shift as quickly, the loose chain and lack of chain guide and slap guard, the limited adjust suspension fork which can dive or bob (especially for heavy riders), the plastic fenders with basic support mounts which rattle quite bit on bumpy terrain and may even rub on the tires, and the basic mechanical 160 mm disc brake hardware vs. hydraulic. That said, the brakes work well enough and the levers are comfortable and smart, with integrated motor inhibitors that cut power to the motor when pulled.
Driving this bike is a 500 watt nominally rated, Bafang hub motor. It’s a planetary geared hub motor, which is more compact and zippy feeling than competing gearless models. VoltBike may have adjusted the Amp flow in the controller however, because it accelerates smoothly and does not feel as surprising and on/off as some of the other Bafang hub motors I have tested. You can still get a strong burst of energy by using the trigger throttle to override assist, but the 12 magnet cadence sensor works very well on its own and I actually like how smooth it feels. Hub motors operate independently from the chain and cassette that you power as a rider. This means that you won’t have to worry about shifting gears to maximize power, and you won’t encounter as much mashing as you might with a mid-drive. But, the downside is that the hub motor dosn’t benefit from the shifting either, and likely will not achieve the same range or climbing strength. I only weigh ~135 lbs but was very impressed with the climbing strength that the motor did offer when testing up an incline in a grassy section of a park in downtown Vancouver Canada. The bike was able to move me from near standstill and accelerate up a small hill. I didn’t have to worry about pedaling and was instead, able to focus on balancing and steering. This is exactly the kind of setup I prefer on an ebike, full control and power at anytime. The trigger throttle does offer variable-speed activation, so if you push it just a bit, you will only get a little bit of power. It isn’t active at the zero level of assist, but 1-9 can be overridden with full power which is handy for a last minute boost when climbing or a quick zip up to catch some friends or pass another cyclist. Be careful not to bump the trigger when mounting or dismounting the bike, it’s a good idea to arrow down to level zero or simply turn it off, especially when loading the bike on a rack or putting it away in your garage. Thankfully, the trigger throttle is small and mostly out of the way. Given the very basic seven speed drivetrain on this bike (that you pedal with), I love how versatile the motor operation is. You can basically leave the bike in assist level three, the drivetrain in gear four, and just use the throttle to start and then pedal without ever changing gears or switching levels. And again, that’s nice because nine levels of assist is a bit excessive and can be tedious to click through.
Powering the Volt Bike Elegant is a very capable 48 volt 10.4 amp hour battery pack that uses Samsung cells. Weighing in at roughly seven pounds, it’s about average in terms of size and is very easy to click on or remove from the frame. This battery is the biggest upgrade and improvement over the earlier Elegant model because it positions weight where it should be, low and center on the frame. I like that it can be charged when mounted or removed, because that’s useful for commuting situations where the bike might be locked up at a rack outside. The charging port is a bit vulnerable, situated low and near the left crank arm, and the charger is a bit average, putting out 2 Amps vs. 3 or 4, but it gets the job done. I do wonder if it would have been possible to put the battery even lower on the downtube, near the bottom bracket vs. the head tube, to further maximize stability, but perhaps they had to put the controller there in the downtube where the wiring would be easier to run to the motor? In any case, many of the shifting, braking, and power cables are internally routed through the frame for an improved aesthetic and reduced snag potential. They practically disappear on the black frame, because they have black plastic covers. One final highlight about the battery is the integrated full-sized USB charging port positioned near the top of the right side. This could be useful for keeping a mobile phone charged when using GPS or playing music on the way to work. I would recommend the use of a right angle USB adapter to keep your wires from getting kicked however. And again, you don’t have to use this port for add-on lights because the battery is already powering the two included lights. They aren’t the fanciest, and in fact the headlight may bounce as you ride because it’s positioned on the moving part of the suspension fork vs. the head tube or handlebar, but they are way better than no lights.
Operating the VoltBike Elegant is straightforward, in fact, it’s using the exact same display system and button pad as before. The LCD is large, backlit (if you hold the up arrow), and adjustable angle to reduce glare. It is not removable, but there does appear to be a disconnect spot for easy replacement if you experience damage at some point down the line. All of the standard readouts about current speed, battery capacity, and assist level are shown, and if you tap the power button (the little rubber button on the remote pad) it will cycle through advanced readouts like average speed and max speed. Holding down on the button pad activates walk mode, and double tapping the power button opens a menu where you can adjust the maximum speed of the bike, though you’ll need a password from VoltBike to do so. This cold be handy for people who want to ride slower for safety reasons… but you can always just arrow down on assist for less power. The real consideration is how fast the throttle will get you going, because it’s always offering up full power when pushed all the way down. I was able to reach just over 20 miles per hour in the highest assist level during my tests. I would have been happy with a five level assist vs. nine because I don’t love clicking through so many levels when trying to focus on riding. At least the display is within reach and easy to learn (there are only three buttons). After a bit of practice, it’s easy to click up or down without even looking at the display for feedback. The one thing I have noticed about this particular button pad is that if you snag the buttons with fabric or somehow bump them when parking, the plastic cover can get bent up and become vulnerable to breaking off. I have only seen this once, but I have never seen the rubberized buttons get broken, so I consider it a point of consideration and extra care. A secondary four-LED display is built into the top of the battery box, and this allows you to get a quick idea of how full the pack is, even when it’s not mounted to the bike.
I went extra long on the video review above and have included a very detailed list of pros and cons below because I feel like this ebike would be a great fit, at the right price, for a large audience of people. It’s not perfect, but it delivers a lot of value and is more than good enough for the majority of use cases. I’d love to see a matte/gloss mix, maybe a satin paint job in the future to reduce fingerprints, and maybe some reflective tires like the original VoltBike Elegant had. You don’t get quick release here, so consider bringing along a tool and some flat-fix supplies. There’s also no bottle cage and I have listed a few bag options in the pro/con section below to help address this with a holster or a bar mount cup holder like this if you can fit it on. It’s neat to see a well thought out electric bicycle that comes with a basic warranty that is sold online. There are these extremes with kits and super cheap bikes that have zero support… and I find that they usually require extra time and effort that can cost more in the long run. I have seen some very cheap electric bikes being sold on Kickstarter and Indiegogo that only have one gear or require hundreds of dollars of shipping and make you buy an LCD display separately. The VoltBike Elegant comes with everything you need and is being sold by a company that I have been reviewing for several years now, I trust them to stick around and uphold their product more than a lot of others. Big thanks to VoltBike and the founder George for partnering with me on this post and showing me the free helmet that comes with the bike and the big box that that they use to ship it in. It’s nice to get a deeper look, even though I did not unpack the bike myself as an end-customer might. I welcome your feedback and comments as always.
Pros:
VoltBike has a shipping facility in the US and Canada, the price for shipping one of their electric bikes is only $70 USD (possibly even less in Canada ~$50) and that’s very low compared to most other manufactures that sell online
The VoltBike Elegant is one of the most affordable e-bikes I have seen, and it comes with a full set of accessories for commuting such as fenders, a chain cover, and stand-alone LED lights
I would call this a mid-step frame, it’s approachable, easy to stand-over, and the battery is well protected between the top tube and downtube, weight is also well balanced front to rear and kept fairly low
Great positioning and hardware choice on the kickstand, it supports the rear-end of the bike and stays out of the way of the left crank arm vs. a bottom-bracket mount design, if you load the cargo rack it should support the weight securely
Comfort is a bit consideration for me with electric bikes because I tend to ride further and at higher average speeds… so I really appreciate the ergonomic grips, adjustable-angle stem, and suspension fork… though the fork is very basic with only preload adjust (that has to be adjusted on each stanchion independently), lockout can be nice for solid paved surfaces to reduce bobbing and dive when stopping, it’s especially nice to have compression adjust with lockout if you’re a heavier rider
An integrated USB port on the right side of the battery pack allows you to charge phones, music players, and other portable electronic devices on the go or at home with the battery off the bike, it’s a useful feature but I’d recommend using a 90 degree adapter like this to keep the wire clean and safe from being kicked or bumped
Weighing in at about 55.6 lbs, this isn’t the heaviest nor lightest weight electric bike, but at least you can take the battery pack off for charging or transporting the bike, it locks securely with a key and slides in from the left vs. clicking down, this enables the lower top tube design
Since the derailleur and motor power cable are both positioned on the right side of the bike, near the right axle, it’s cool that VoltBike has added a derailleur guard to keep them from getting bumped in shipping and if the bike tips or is parked at a crowded rack where people might kick it accidentally
Even though the mechanical disc brakes are a little basic, the brake levers look and feel good because they are black and have a rubberized edge, they also have motor inhibitors built in to cut power to the bike when you make an emergency stop
When you purchase an electric bike from VoltBike, they throw in a DOT approved helmet for free, it’s a neat policy and the helmets come in a few different colors, as someone who cares about safety, I like this
I have a sensitive back and neck so the front suspension and possible upright bar position helps, but I might also swap the seat post with a 27.2 mm diameter suspension post like the Suntour NCX or Thudbuster ST but keep in mind, this raises the minimum saddle height by a few inches so it might not be the best plan for people who want to keep that saddle super low
I was really impressed that the LED lights are both integrated! This makes them less of a target for theft and reduces the time you have to spend when starting and stopping (turning them on and off)
Cons:
The matte black and matte white color schemes look unique and maybe trendy but they seem to show fingerprints and dirt more (especially the white), but I like that the white will be more visible at night vs. black
I like that the side of the chain cover has a section of reflective material (like a sticker) but wish that the tires also had some reflective accents, especially for the black frame, it’s a minor gripe but consider upgrading to the affordable Schwalbe Marathon GG RLX or the Schwalbe Marathon Plus which also has some puncture protection qualities
Minor consideration here, both wheels use bolts vs. a quick release system and this means that changing flats and performing maintenance requires more tools and time, consider using a small trunk bag like this for the charger and a multi-tool, and consider upgrading the tubes to pre-Slimed ones like this if you get flats frequently and bring a mini pump like this
There are no bottle cage bosses, so consider using a trunk bag with a bottle holster like this so you can stay hydrated… it’s not as easy to reach your water with a bag or pannier setup but there are drink holders like this to consider as well which might fit on the handlebar
The Elegant only comes in one frame size but I was able to raise the seat and use the adjustable stem to get full leg extension and a comfortable body position, I’m 5’9″ tall
The display panel is large and the control pad is easy to reach and use while riding but you cannot remove the display when parking so it could get scratched and faded over time, also, I have seen this specific button pad get messed up with clothing snagging the underside of the button cover and bending it up, just be delicate with it because it just doesn’t seem as tough as a fully rubberized pad or a different plastic design
Minor considerations here but worth mentioning, the Shimano Tourney drivetrain is the most basic low-end derailleur and cassette package and the shifting mechanism is pretty big and bulky on the handlebar, I also feel that the disc brakes are very basic and don’t allow for reach adjust or the same power as hydraulic brakes would, they are however, an upgrade from mechanical rim brakes and should stay cleaner, avoid touching the rotors so they don’t squeak
The plastic fenders produce a bit more noise when riding on rough terrain, the rear fender seemed a bit high above the wheel and did not connect to the rack hardware for extra support like some higher-quality solutions I have seen, some shops have told me that this type of fender can come loose or rub on the tires a bit more over time
Because of the more entry-level derailleur, the chain seemed a bit loose and bouncy, I also noticed that the chainstay did not have a plastic slap guard sticker on it and may chip (but the frame is Aluminum so it won’t rust, and it probably won’t be visible because of the chain cover)
Some of the electrical cables and wires were exposed at the bottom bracket (which isn’t uncommon, but one was a bit longer and seemed vulnerable), there’s not chain guide so the chain could still bounce off and would be tricky to re-seat because of the chain cover
Since the headlight is mounted on the sliding lowers of the suspension fork vs. the head tube or handlebar, it will bounce up and down on rough terrain which could create a bit of distraction or flashing view vs. steady and consistent, it might also bounce out of place or change the aim over time
The bike offers nine levers of assist by default… which is more than I prefer, especially with a basic urban bike like this with a 20 mph cap, the nine levels just mean you need to click more frequently which can be tedious, I love how the throttle overrides assist with full power at any level however
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I noticed this bike replaced the Crosscurrent Air in the ‘Best Affordable Electric Bikes for 2016/2017’ category. Two questions: why? And how do you think they compare with one another, given the base model Crosscurrent Air is cheaper?
For me, the lights, fenders, approachable frame, and still relatively low price point made this a standout. Also, I swap bikes in and out as the year progresses based on what’s new. As we get into 2018 I will continue to make adjustments and am always open to feedback and input! You could make your own list of standouts and post it in the forums. I feel like both companies are growing and doing a good job with customer support. Also, I had heard about some hardware issues with some Juiced Bikes this year but had not heard that about Voltbike.
So I live on a very steep hill and it is horrible trying to walk to school every day. I just get all sweaty and it just sucks. Anyway I want to get a bike but something not too pricey. It’s not too long of a walk it’s just strenouos. I’m a very fit guy and biking up steep hills isn’t really a problem but would this help me out on steep hills?
Hi Bennett! Yes, definitely… the best way to utilize a hub motor powered electric bike on hills is to gather a bit of momentum going in because the motor is most effective once it’s moving. If you have to start from standstill like halfway up the hill, make sure you’re in the lowest gear and maybe start riding at an angle to the hill so the motor can kick in and get you going. I was impressed with the power on offer for such an affordable bike and feel that VoltBike really improved upon the Elegant from a few years ago. This ebike does use some cheaper parts, but the drivetrain and frame are just fine. It’s going to make your trip home quicker and keep you cooler because air will be moving over your body. You may have to pedal for some of the steep parts but if you use a low gear, it won’t be an issue :)
Hi Court, your reviews are hands down the most informative and in-depth Ive come across the net. They’ve been instrumental in my purchase decision for the Voltbike Elegant.
I plan on riding the bike in winter conditions, and there will be days where it will need to be left outside. I will be taking the battery indoors with me, but how sensitive are the connection points of the battery bay, with the battery removed? will cold, wet conditions damage them? Ive asked my LBS and they recommend tying a plastic bag around the empty battery bay when leaving outside. Do you have any reco or input on this? Francis
Thanks Francis! It sounds like you have a great plan, I have also been advised to cover sensitive parts with plastic bags… but also heard that if you leave the bag air tight then condensation can form and get into the electronics. I’d position something to cover the sensitive bits but not fully surround or enclose them. Does this make sense? The bike should still be very water resistant on its own, just try to keep water from pouring down on/into the sensitive bits and then leave enough air space so that it can breathe :)
Putting the utilities that the Elegant comes with aside, what benefits does it have that makes it a better urban commuter bike than the Enduro? The Enduro has better wheels for rougher terrain and for snow as well as full suspension, but if the Elegant couldn’t have the fenders or the rack then would it still be a better choice for an urban bike? The Yukon 750 is not classified as an ebike in Alberta because the motor output is above 500 watts, so I am looking at the Elegant or the Enduro for urban transportation.
Sounds like those two could be a good fit for you, I was excited by the affordability of the Elegant and the completely updated frame compared to what I had seen before. Voltbike has done a great job offering a range of products, and I understand that the laws are a bit different in Canada regarding motor power.
VoltBike Elegant or RadPower RadWagon or RadPower Step Through City Bike in your opinion? They are now within a few hundred dollars of one another. Thoughts? I’m thinking for those strictly on a budget then then VoltBike and if money is not an issue than the RadPower options. Thanks! J
It’s really a close call, nice to have such similar options to compare. I was very impressed with the price and performance of the VoltBike Elegant. I like the zippy feel of the geared hub motor verses the gearless from Rad. There’s a ~7 lb weight difference between the step-thru City and the Elegant, so that might be a deciding factor for you? I like them both, for the price and would lean towards a single bike vs. the RadWagon unless you really need the extra space :)
My wife and I (two couch potatoes in their early fifties) are planning a road trip of Canada. 2,000 kms in Canada (ON to NS). Do you think the bike is a good choice for that kind of endeavor?
Hi Bernd, this is one of my favorite electric bicycles for the price… but it’s a cheaper build with value components. If you’re going to mount two of them to a car rack, I’d suggest removing the batteries to make the bikes lighter, keep an eye on the tire pressure, be careful with the lights and fenders, but otherwise they should work great in all sorts of environments. If the lower price point gives you some peace of mind about leaving them locked up in foreign places or left on your car overnight then it could be worth it. I would suggest using a couple of locks and cables to secure all of the parts. You could get some basic trunk bags like this and put a handheld pump, extra flat-resistant inner tubes, tire levers, a water bottle, and a folding lock in there and easily take the bag off to carry along with you inside the car or when you park the bikes :)
Hi Ray! The frame size is 19″ which is about Medium. The smaller 26″ wheels lower the frame a bit and make it more approachable and sturdy but slightly less comfortable and stable to ride. I am 5’9″ tall and felt very comfortable on it… you could definitely raise the handlebar position with the adjustable stem and then max out the seat post to get good leg extension (or get a longer 27.2 mm replacement post like this for ~$20). Be careful not to have the stock post raised so high that it’s beyond the minimum insertion height stamp… especially if you weight a bit more, because it could damage the seat tube. I hope this helps, the short answer is “you’re probably fine” and the long answer is that you might feel a little squished with close reach… but at least the handlebar isn’t swept way back. I’d love to hear how it actually feels if you decide to move forward. It seems like a pretty solid ebike for the price :)
Hey Thanks! It seems like a fair introduction for a first time E-bike buyer and 60+ age, 185 lb. rider. I think I might remove the fenders as I really try to avoid foul conditions. I would wait to see if they have a rattle issue. I will let you know.
PS. Volt’s price on the Elegant is now $1349 with $49 shipping. They say March orders have been very high causing delays in shipping.
shaun
7 years ago
My wife and I would like to share 1 bike. Im 5’9 and she’s 5’4. Too big for her in your opinion? Im sure adjustements to the stem and such might accomodate. Thanks
Hi Shaun! I’m 5’9″ as well and this bike felt pretty good. The photos and video here were all shot with the saddle adjusted for my height (to get full leg extension) and there appears to be a lot of space below for it to drop down. With the step-thru frame design here and the ability to also raise it, I feel that this would be approachable enough for her to deal with and also comfortable for you. There are many similar products out there and I think the VoltBike Elegant might actually be backordered. Here’s another very similar ebike with hydraulic brakes (which might be easier for her to pull), it has a slightly lower top tube and the reach is about two inches shorter.
Hi Court – your review is one of the most detailed and informative that I’ve seem! You are very good at what you do. Based on your review, I have purchased an Elegant and am very confident that I will be able to quickly ride like the wind! (So to speak). Thank you!
Wonderful! Thanks for taking a moment to share your excitement, Kathy. I hope the bike works out great, it sounds like the company has made some improvements since I last looked and I welcome further comments and feedback as you receive and begin to ride and enjoy the bike :D
Just got the “Elegant” today. It is all I expected and more. Very heavy duty and high quality. The only shortcoming was that the instruction on setting up the stem (steering) was NOT as per the instructions. Still charging my initial, but did test it out for a few minutes… WOW what a lot of power even in the 1st assist level.
Hey Larry, sound like the VoltBike Elegant is working really well for you, congrats! Do you feel like the first level of assist is too powerful or do you like the zippy feeling?
Kevin, yes Vancouver Island has hills and mountains. There are some long and challenging hills, just as you describe. But the Elegant eats them up with the 500-watt motor. I am 220 lbs and over 70… there is no hill that will stop me! I have never gone beyond the need for power assist level 3… there is 6 more in my arsenal.
Thank you so much for all the amazing information you provide! A new law just went into effect last week in Washington State that allows e-bikes to use sidewalks (unless bikes are otherwise disallowed by local municipalities), which makes the idea of me commuting to work far less scary, as about half my 6.5 miles commute would be on busy suburban streets without bike lanes. I’m torn between the RadCity and the Volt Bike Elegant at this point, but I’m leaning towards the Elegant, as I live at the top of a big hill and it sounds like a geared motor would be preferable for my price range of $1300-$1500. Coming home after work, after a nice flat 6 miles, there’s an elevation gain of approx. 350 ft. in 0.6 miles, with an average grade of probably 9-13%, starting out at a stop light at the bottom (no opportunity for gaining momentum). Do you foresee any problems with either bikes getting up the hill with a moderate amount of pedaling on my part? I’m 220 lbs and 5’10”, so a bigger boy (hopefully less big soon). I don’t mind breaking a sweat after work, but I don’t want to dread coming up the hill or only be able to climb it at 5 mph. Thanks!
Hi Kevin! I’m a bit lighter at 135 lbs but have found that most ebikes can top mid-sized hills with just a bit of pedaling. The key is to bring some speed into the hill and shift to lower gears before climbing (so you don’t mash and grind gears shifting at the last minute). The RadCity uses a gearless motor that is heavier but also very reliable and quiet. The VoltBike Elegant is lighter overall and the gearned motor is zippy, but might struggle and wear down faster if you’re really pushing it. My experience with both models is that the work great if you just pedal along and listen to the bike, just care for it :) but you could always go the route of a fancier mid-drive and get an increased mechanical advantage for the motor. You’ll be spending more, but the quality is great on something like the Trek Verve+ which comes in step-thru, has fenders, lights, rack etc. and uses the Bosch motor. If I had to choose from Rad Power Bikes vs. VoltBike, I’d go with Rad in your case because they are based in Washington. You might be able to take a road trip to Seattle to visit their shop and even test ride before buying! I hope this helps and welcome your feedback when you do choose one or the other, I’m sure it would help others as well :)
Thanks for the great info! I will indeed be visiting the Rad Power Bikes store this weekend (‘m only about 30 mins from it), and I’ve already spoken with someone there about the hill capabilities. He assures me the RadCity won’t have any problems getting up my hill. The Trek Verve+ does indeed look like a nice setup, but it’s beyond my current budget.
My #1 goal with the purchase of an e-bike is to get more exercise. I used to ride my conventional bike a lot before I lived on the hill (12 years ago), and an e-bike will finally make it possible to get back into it, since there’s no way in heck I’m going to try to tackle my hill without one (or walk a bike up it). Plus, now that I work so close to home, I can use the bike to commute, and about half the route is on a shady riverside trail that’s not terribly busy. I’m super excited about that.
I’ll provide a review/assessment on the RadCity page if/when I acquire one. If I take a test ride and don’t love it for some reason, I’ll go with the VoltBike Elegant.
Sounds great Kevin! I’m excited for you, sounds like an ebike is going to make riding fun and approachable again. Looking forward to your next update :D
So, I test rode both the RadCity and RadCity stepthrough this morning, and while I felt they were good quality bikes for an affordable price, I determined that there was no way they were going to get me up my monster hill, even with major assistance on my part. As I mentioned, we’re talking about a half mile of continuous slope, and it turns out that a portion is actually a 20% grade. When I took the RadCity up a moderately steep hill near their store, it did OK, but the motor was already at over 600+ watts, and I know you’re not supposed to exceed 550 or so continuously on a hill. Additionally, all both models are out of stock for at least 10 days.
Afterwards, on a whim, I visited the Seattle E-bike store downtown, pretty much only expecting to see bikes out of my price range. But it turns out that they just put all of their Kalkoff bikes on clearance at 40% off! They’re not carrying the brand anymore, as Kalkoff wasn’t paying the labor for their warranty work. I test rode two models, both with mid drive motors, and took them both up a long and steep hill (Yesler Way). The Connect Pro Impulse S10, which was marked down to $2300 from $4400, performed the best, and it had an amazing amount of power. I could immediately see that it was a deal I couldn’t pass up, even if it was more than I’d budgeted. After reading and watching your various reviews, I felt very educated on all aspects of e-bikery, and it was clear that the S10’s components were light years ahead of any of the entry-level bikes, let alone any others in the $2300 price range. Yes, it’s an older model (2016), but it has a massive battery (17aH) that uses the same Panasonic cells as current models. It’s also a beautiful piece of German engineering. I ended up getting a more comfortable seat, but other than that, it’s totally ready to go as my commuter bike.
Once I got the bike home, I tested it from the bottom of my hill from a full stop, and while I had to put a good amount of peddling in at lower gears, I made it all the way up without issue. And I’m in pretty poor shape right now, so that’s saying something. I’m super excited to take the bike to work on Monday. Once I make it through some city streets, I’ll have a beautiful ride along the Green River Trail, which will drop me right to my office’s front door.
Fantastic! It sounds like you found an excellent bike for your needs, Kevin. Thanks for sharing your experience with both Kalkhoff and Rad Power Bikes… this is the kind of user feedback that will really inform others and it brought me a smile :)
HI Court, I want to thank you for your reviews. They are very informative and it extremely helpful that you provide all the written information in your reviews in addition to the video.
I am looking for an e bike for under $2,000 and trying to decide between the Surface 604 Rook, Radcity step thru, and E-Joe Gadis step thru. And, after this review, the Volt Elegant.
I live in San Diego and we have some rather steep as well as long hills. What is important to me is comfort, fenders, lights, rack, ease of hill climbing, and of course, durability. Any advice you can provide to narrow my choice would be very helpful. Also, anyone else who knows any of these bikes, please chime in.
Hi Judy! The latest VoltBike Elegant is pretty awesome… for the price. You’re trading ease of service and assembly for lower cost here. I personally really like Surface 604, but their product is similar to the Elegant if you don’t need some of the higher quality component upgrades. Both are Canadian companies based in British Columbia and both are run by friendly trustworthy people, in my experience. Rad is based in Seattle and is doing a great job with their products, but the RadCity has been out of stock frequently and I think the gearless motor weighs more, it might not be as strong for climbing in some situations (starting from stop). If you’re willing to spend a bit more for improved hill-climbing performance with a mid-drive, consider the Trek Verve+ or Electra Loft Go or Townie Go.
I have had my Volt Elegant for about 4 months now and with 400 miles on it. I am quite pleased with the purchase. Delivered it differed slightly from the one reviewed. The paint has changed to glossy, grips are not ergonomic and tires were even lower grade. One tire blew out at about 50 miles. I then replaced both with a smaller 1.95 size. The smaller size helped stop the fender contact. I added a inexpensive suspension seat post and a seat better suited for me.
I guess I’m lucky to have found a quality E-bike that fit my needs without a test ride. We bought my wife’s Evo Street Pro locally after she rode several other bikes. The price of the Evo is much more, but for a first time buyer not sure of what to buy there’s no substituting taking some out for a ride. Good luck to all.
Thanks for the updates, Ray! I enjoyed hearing about the slight changes to the VoltBike Elegant and am sure that others will appreciate them as well. Hope you and your wife enjoy the rides!
Got this bike for my dad because of the step through frame and because of the good review; and it holds up to the expectations. Very sturdy and very powerful. Since then my dad has become unstoppable! It’s really well built, the only thing I would change is the power level; even on level 1, my head gets thrown backwards when I start paddling. I’ve been unable to use level 3-9 because they are powerful beyond reason. I wish there was a way to reduce the overall power so that I can have the granularity of all 9 levels. But that aside it’s a good bike, it will last a lifetime.
Thanks for the feedback Ahmad! Some companies program their motor controllers to ramp up smoothly while others go for zip and power, which feels more impressive but can also be startling and use more energy. I don’t think that’s something you can really change, but the twist throttle (or trigger throttle) is one way to ramp up power more gradually. I believe the throttle on VoltBike models does provide variable power actuation, so just easing in with the throttle could reduce the “head back” feeling you described :)
Gerard
7 years agoI noticed this bike replaced the Crosscurrent Air in the ‘Best Affordable Electric Bikes for 2016/2017’ category. Two questions: why? And how do you think they compare with one another, given the base model Crosscurrent Air is cheaper?
ReplyCourt Rye
7 years agoFor me, the lights, fenders, approachable frame, and still relatively low price point made this a standout. Also, I swap bikes in and out as the year progresses based on what’s new. As we get into 2018 I will continue to make adjustments and am always open to feedback and input! You could make your own list of standouts and post it in the forums. I feel like both companies are growing and doing a good job with customer support. Also, I had heard about some hardware issues with some Juiced Bikes this year but had not heard that about Voltbike.
ReplyBrendan
7 years agoSo is the Cross current still a good bike?
Bennett
7 years agoSo I live on a very steep hill and it is horrible trying to walk to school every day. I just get all sweaty and it just sucks. Anyway I want to get a bike but something not too pricey. It’s not too long of a walk it’s just strenouos. I’m a very fit guy and biking up steep hills isn’t really a problem but would this help me out on steep hills?
ReplyCourt Rye
7 years agoHi Bennett! Yes, definitely… the best way to utilize a hub motor powered electric bike on hills is to gather a bit of momentum going in because the motor is most effective once it’s moving. If you have to start from standstill like halfway up the hill, make sure you’re in the lowest gear and maybe start riding at an angle to the hill so the motor can kick in and get you going. I was impressed with the power on offer for such an affordable bike and feel that VoltBike really improved upon the Elegant from a few years ago. This ebike does use some cheaper parts, but the drivetrain and frame are just fine. It’s going to make your trip home quicker and keep you cooler because air will be moving over your body. You may have to pedal for some of the steep parts but if you use a low gear, it won’t be an issue :)
ReplyFrancis
7 years agoHi Court, your reviews are hands down the most informative and in-depth Ive come across the net. They’ve been instrumental in my purchase decision for the Voltbike Elegant.
I plan on riding the bike in winter conditions, and there will be days where it will need to be left outside. I will be taking the battery indoors with me, but how sensitive are the connection points of the battery bay, with the battery removed? will cold, wet conditions damage them? Ive asked my LBS and they recommend tying a plastic bag around the empty battery bay when leaving outside. Do you have any reco or input on this? Francis
ReplyCourt Rye
7 years agoThanks Francis! It sounds like you have a great plan, I have also been advised to cover sensitive parts with plastic bags… but also heard that if you leave the bag air tight then condensation can form and get into the electronics. I’d position something to cover the sensitive bits but not fully surround or enclose them. Does this make sense? The bike should still be very water resistant on its own, just try to keep water from pouring down on/into the sensitive bits and then leave enough air space so that it can breathe :)
ReplyChristopher Cramer
7 years agoPutting the utilities that the Elegant comes with aside, what benefits does it have that makes it a better urban commuter bike than the Enduro? The Enduro has better wheels for rougher terrain and for snow as well as full suspension, but if the Elegant couldn’t have the fenders or the rack then would it still be a better choice for an urban bike? The Yukon 750 is not classified as an ebike in Alberta because the motor output is above 500 watts, so I am looking at the Elegant or the Enduro for urban transportation.
ReplyCourt Rye
7 years agoSounds like those two could be a good fit for you, I was excited by the affordability of the Elegant and the completely updated frame compared to what I had seen before. Voltbike has done a great job offering a range of products, and I understand that the laws are a bit different in Canada regarding motor power.
ReplyJJ
7 years agoVoltBike Elegant or RadPower RadWagon or RadPower Step Through City Bike in your opinion? They are now within a few hundred dollars of one another. Thoughts? I’m thinking for those strictly on a budget then then VoltBike and if money is not an issue than the RadPower options. Thanks! J
ReplyCourt Rye
7 years agoIt’s really a close call, nice to have such similar options to compare. I was very impressed with the price and performance of the VoltBike Elegant. I like the zippy feel of the geared hub motor verses the gearless from Rad. There’s a ~7 lb weight difference between the step-thru City and the Elegant, so that might be a deciding factor for you? I like them both, for the price and would lean towards a single bike vs. the RadWagon unless you really need the extra space :)
ReplyBernd Kopp
7 years agoMy wife and I (two couch potatoes in their early fifties) are planning a road trip of Canada. 2,000 kms in Canada (ON to NS). Do you think the bike is a good choice for that kind of endeavor?
ReplyCourt Rye
7 years agoHi Bernd, this is one of my favorite electric bicycles for the price… but it’s a cheaper build with value components. If you’re going to mount two of them to a car rack, I’d suggest removing the batteries to make the bikes lighter, keep an eye on the tire pressure, be careful with the lights and fenders, but otherwise they should work great in all sorts of environments. If the lower price point gives you some peace of mind about leaving them locked up in foreign places or left on your car overnight then it could be worth it. I would suggest using a couple of locks and cables to secure all of the parts. You could get some basic trunk bags like this and put a handheld pump, extra flat-resistant inner tubes, tire levers, a water bottle, and a folding lock in there and easily take the bag off to carry along with you inside the car or when you park the bikes :)
ReplyBernd Kopp
7 years agoHi Court, thank you very much for your fast response. The trip would be bikes only, no car. Do you still think the bikes can bring us home?
Ray
7 years agoIs the Elegant suitable for someone that is 6 ft – 1 inch tall? Thanks.
Replycourt
7 years agoHi Ray! The frame size is 19″ which is about Medium. The smaller 26″ wheels lower the frame a bit and make it more approachable and sturdy but slightly less comfortable and stable to ride. I am 5’9″ tall and felt very comfortable on it… you could definitely raise the handlebar position with the adjustable stem and then max out the seat post to get good leg extension (or get a longer 27.2 mm replacement post like this for ~$20). Be careful not to have the stock post raised so high that it’s beyond the minimum insertion height stamp… especially if you weight a bit more, because it could damage the seat tube. I hope this helps, the short answer is “you’re probably fine” and the long answer is that you might feel a little squished with close reach… but at least the handlebar isn’t swept way back. I’d love to hear how it actually feels if you decide to move forward. It seems like a pretty solid ebike for the price :)
ReplyRay
7 years agoHey Thanks! It seems like a fair introduction for a first time E-bike buyer and 60+ age, 185 lb. rider. I think I might remove the fenders as I really try to avoid foul conditions. I would wait to see if they have a rattle issue. I will let you know.
PS. Volt’s price on the Elegant is now $1349 with $49 shipping. They say March orders have been very high causing delays in shipping.
shaun
7 years agoMy wife and I would like to share 1 bike. Im 5’9 and she’s 5’4. Too big for her in your opinion? Im sure adjustements to the stem and such might accomodate. Thanks
Replycourt
7 years agoHi Shaun! I’m 5’9″ as well and this bike felt pretty good. The photos and video here were all shot with the saddle adjusted for my height (to get full leg extension) and there appears to be a lot of space below for it to drop down. With the step-thru frame design here and the ability to also raise it, I feel that this would be approachable enough for her to deal with and also comfortable for you. There are many similar products out there and I think the VoltBike Elegant might actually be backordered. Here’s another very similar ebike with hydraulic brakes (which might be easier for her to pull), it has a slightly lower top tube and the reach is about two inches shorter.
ReplyKathy
7 years agoHi Court – your review is one of the most detailed and informative that I’ve seem! You are very good at what you do. Based on your review, I have purchased an Elegant and am very confident that I will be able to quickly ride like the wind! (So to speak). Thank you!
Replycourt
7 years agoWonderful! Thanks for taking a moment to share your excitement, Kathy. I hope the bike works out great, it sounds like the company has made some improvements since I last looked and I welcome further comments and feedback as you receive and begin to ride and enjoy the bike :D
ReplyLarry Maydonik
7 years agoJust got the “Elegant” today. It is all I expected and more. Very heavy duty and high quality. The only shortcoming was that the instruction on setting up the stem (steering) was NOT as per the instructions. Still charging my initial, but did test it out for a few minutes… WOW what a lot of power even in the 1st assist level.
Replycourt
7 years agoHey Larry, sound like the VoltBike Elegant is working really well for you, congrats! Do you feel like the first level of assist is too powerful or do you like the zippy feeling?
ReplyKevin P
7 years agoHi Larry, do you live in an area with big hills? If so, have you had a chance to test the Elegant on them? Thanks
ReplyLarry
7 years agoKevin, yes Vancouver Island has hills and mountains. There are some long and challenging hills, just as you describe. But the Elegant eats them up with the 500-watt motor. I am 220 lbs and over 70… there is no hill that will stop me! I have never gone beyond the need for power assist level 3… there is 6 more in my arsenal.
Kevin P
7 years agoThanks for the info, Larry!
ReplyKevin P
7 years agoThank you so much for all the amazing information you provide! A new law just went into effect last week in Washington State that allows e-bikes to use sidewalks (unless bikes are otherwise disallowed by local municipalities), which makes the idea of me commuting to work far less scary, as about half my 6.5 miles commute would be on busy suburban streets without bike lanes. I’m torn between the RadCity and the Volt Bike Elegant at this point, but I’m leaning towards the Elegant, as I live at the top of a big hill and it sounds like a geared motor would be preferable for my price range of $1300-$1500. Coming home after work, after a nice flat 6 miles, there’s an elevation gain of approx. 350 ft. in 0.6 miles, with an average grade of probably 9-13%, starting out at a stop light at the bottom (no opportunity for gaining momentum). Do you foresee any problems with either bikes getting up the hill with a moderate amount of pedaling on my part? I’m 220 lbs and 5’10”, so a bigger boy (hopefully less big soon). I don’t mind breaking a sweat after work, but I don’t want to dread coming up the hill or only be able to climb it at 5 mph. Thanks!
Replycourt
7 years agoHi Kevin! I’m a bit lighter at 135 lbs but have found that most ebikes can top mid-sized hills with just a bit of pedaling. The key is to bring some speed into the hill and shift to lower gears before climbing (so you don’t mash and grind gears shifting at the last minute). The RadCity uses a gearless motor that is heavier but also very reliable and quiet. The VoltBike Elegant is lighter overall and the gearned motor is zippy, but might struggle and wear down faster if you’re really pushing it. My experience with both models is that the work great if you just pedal along and listen to the bike, just care for it :) but you could always go the route of a fancier mid-drive and get an increased mechanical advantage for the motor. You’ll be spending more, but the quality is great on something like the Trek Verve+ which comes in step-thru, has fenders, lights, rack etc. and uses the Bosch motor. If I had to choose from Rad Power Bikes vs. VoltBike, I’d go with Rad in your case because they are based in Washington. You might be able to take a road trip to Seattle to visit their shop and even test ride before buying! I hope this helps and welcome your feedback when you do choose one or the other, I’m sure it would help others as well :)
ReplyKevin Poole
7 years agoHi Court,
Thanks for the great info! I will indeed be visiting the Rad Power Bikes store this weekend (‘m only about 30 mins from it), and I’ve already spoken with someone there about the hill capabilities. He assures me the RadCity won’t have any problems getting up my hill. The Trek Verve+ does indeed look like a nice setup, but it’s beyond my current budget.
My #1 goal with the purchase of an e-bike is to get more exercise. I used to ride my conventional bike a lot before I lived on the hill (12 years ago), and an e-bike will finally make it possible to get back into it, since there’s no way in heck I’m going to try to tackle my hill without one (or walk a bike up it). Plus, now that I work so close to home, I can use the bike to commute, and about half the route is on a shady riverside trail that’s not terribly busy. I’m super excited about that.
I’ll provide a review/assessment on the RadCity page if/when I acquire one. If I take a test ride and don’t love it for some reason, I’ll go with the VoltBike Elegant.
Thanks again!
Kevin
Replycourt
7 years agoSounds great Kevin! I’m excited for you, sounds like an ebike is going to make riding fun and approachable again. Looking forward to your next update :D
ReplyKevin P
7 years agoHi Court,
So, I test rode both the RadCity and RadCity stepthrough this morning, and while I felt they were good quality bikes for an affordable price, I determined that there was no way they were going to get me up my monster hill, even with major assistance on my part. As I mentioned, we’re talking about a half mile of continuous slope, and it turns out that a portion is actually a 20% grade. When I took the RadCity up a moderately steep hill near their store, it did OK, but the motor was already at over 600+ watts, and I know you’re not supposed to exceed 550 or so continuously on a hill. Additionally, all both models are out of stock for at least 10 days.
Afterwards, on a whim, I visited the Seattle E-bike store downtown, pretty much only expecting to see bikes out of my price range. But it turns out that they just put all of their Kalkoff bikes on clearance at 40% off! They’re not carrying the brand anymore, as Kalkoff wasn’t paying the labor for their warranty work. I test rode two models, both with mid drive motors, and took them both up a long and steep hill (Yesler Way). The Connect Pro Impulse S10, which was marked down to $2300 from $4400, performed the best, and it had an amazing amount of power. I could immediately see that it was a deal I couldn’t pass up, even if it was more than I’d budgeted. After reading and watching your various reviews, I felt very educated on all aspects of e-bikery, and it was clear that the S10’s components were light years ahead of any of the entry-level bikes, let alone any others in the $2300 price range. Yes, it’s an older model (2016), but it has a massive battery (17aH) that uses the same Panasonic cells as current models. It’s also a beautiful piece of German engineering. I ended up getting a more comfortable seat, but other than that, it’s totally ready to go as my commuter bike.
Once I got the bike home, I tested it from the bottom of my hill from a full stop, and while I had to put a good amount of peddling in at lower gears, I made it all the way up without issue. And I’m in pretty poor shape right now, so that’s saying something. I’m super excited to take the bike to work on Monday. Once I make it through some city streets, I’ll have a beautiful ride along the Green River Trail, which will drop me right to my office’s front door.
Thanks again!
Kevin
Replycourt
7 years agoFantastic! It sounds like you found an excellent bike for your needs, Kevin. Thanks for sharing your experience with both Kalkhoff and Rad Power Bikes… this is the kind of user feedback that will really inform others and it brought me a smile :)
ReplyJudy Elliot
6 years agoHI Court, I want to thank you for your reviews. They are very informative and it extremely helpful that you provide all the written information in your reviews in addition to the video.
I am looking for an e bike for under $2,000 and trying to decide between the Surface 604 Rook, Radcity step thru, and E-Joe Gadis step thru. And, after this review, the Volt Elegant.
I live in San Diego and we have some rather steep as well as long hills. What is important to me is comfort, fenders, lights, rack, ease of hill climbing, and of course, durability. Any advice you can provide to narrow my choice would be very helpful. Also, anyone else who knows any of these bikes, please chime in.
Replycourt
6 years agoHi Judy! The latest VoltBike Elegant is pretty awesome… for the price. You’re trading ease of service and assembly for lower cost here. I personally really like Surface 604, but their product is similar to the Elegant if you don’t need some of the higher quality component upgrades. Both are Canadian companies based in British Columbia and both are run by friendly trustworthy people, in my experience. Rad is based in Seattle and is doing a great job with their products, but the RadCity has been out of stock frequently and I think the gearless motor weighs more, it might not be as strong for climbing in some situations (starting from stop). If you’re willing to spend a bit more for improved hill-climbing performance with a mid-drive, consider the Trek Verve+ or Electra Loft Go or Townie Go.
ReplyRay
6 years agoI have had my Volt Elegant for about 4 months now and with 400 miles on it. I am quite pleased with the purchase. Delivered it differed slightly from the one reviewed. The paint has changed to glossy, grips are not ergonomic and tires were even lower grade. One tire blew out at about 50 miles. I then replaced both with a smaller 1.95 size. The smaller size helped stop the fender contact. I added a inexpensive suspension seat post and a seat better suited for me.
I guess I’m lucky to have found a quality E-bike that fit my needs without a test ride. We bought my wife’s Evo Street Pro locally after she rode several other bikes. The price of the Evo is much more, but for a first time buyer not sure of what to buy there’s no substituting taking some out for a ride. Good luck to all.
ReplyCourt
6 years agoThanks for the updates, Ray! I enjoyed hearing about the slight changes to the VoltBike Elegant and am sure that others will appreciate them as well. Hope you and your wife enjoy the rides!
ReplyAhmad
6 years agoGot this bike for my dad because of the step through frame and because of the good review; and it holds up to the expectations. Very sturdy and very powerful. Since then my dad has become unstoppable! It’s really well built, the only thing I would change is the power level; even on level 1, my head gets thrown backwards when I start paddling. I’ve been unable to use level 3-9 because they are powerful beyond reason. I wish there was a way to reduce the overall power so that I can have the granularity of all 9 levels. But that aside it’s a good bike, it will last a lifetime.
ReplyCourt
6 years agoThanks for the feedback Ahmad! Some companies program their motor controllers to ramp up smoothly while others go for zip and power, which feels more impressive but can also be startling and use more energy. I don’t think that’s something you can really change, but the twist throttle (or trigger throttle) is one way to ramp up power more gradually. I believe the throttle on VoltBike models does provide variable power actuation, so just easing in with the throttle could reduce the “head back” feeling you described :)
Reply