Momentum Vida E+ Review | Bold Choices Paying Off

Momentum lists an expected range of 40–55 miles from the Vida E+’s 700Wh battery. It’s a solid pairing, putting a larger capacity with a 500W motor, and our testing came in right around our expectations.

On our Class 2 bike path test, we logged 34.2 miles in Power mode, and after a recharge, 58.5 miles in Eco mode. That’s a touch under the claim on one end and a bit above on the other, but well within expectations provided by our testing database.

In terms of efficiency, the Vida E+ used 11.9 Wh per mile in Eco and 20.5 Wh per mile in Power. Those numbers are strong: the low-power figure lands right on our commuter/cruiser average, while the high-power figure is actually a little more efficient than the category average of 21.5 Wh/mi.

Overall, the battery delivers good value and plenty of mileage for the average rider. It’s removable for easier charging, paired with a 3A charger that tops it up in about 4.5–5 hours, and fully UL-certified for safety.

With a 500W hub motor and 60Nm of torque, the Vida E+ sits in the mid-power range. It’s strong enough for solid top-end speed and delivers respectable climbing performance, whether you’re pedaling or using the throttle.

On our Devil’s Backbone hill test, the bike cleared the climb in 2:17 on throttle alone (13.2 mph average) and 2:19 while pedaling (13 mph average). The pedal run was slightly slower—common with torque sensors that closely mirror rider input—but both results were just a tick behind our cruiser/commuter averages (2:11, 2:12).

A couple of observations from the test:
Noise levels were lower than most hub motors, both in volume and pitch, and even quieter during the pedal test.

The effort requirement was modest but noticeable. The torque sensor asks you to put in some work, which makes it easy to sneak in a bit of cardio (nothing too draining, though). Or, if you purchase the optional throttle, you can always lean on it for full support.

Overall, the Vida E+ climbs smoothly and predictably, without surprises from the motor. It’s capable of handling steep grades when needed while making moderate hills feel like little more than a warm-up.

Before testing, I had a strong hunch the Vida E+ would shine in braking, and it did. Momentum equips the bike with 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes and 180mm rotors, a clear upgrade over the 2-piston setups most bikes in the cruiser or commuter molds tend to employ.

The results back it up: the Vida E+ stopped in an average of 19’7”, comfortably ahead of both our all-bike average (21’11”) and the cruiser/commuter average (22’4”). Braking felt strong yet controlled, with plenty of stopping power from a light squeeze and no tire slip to worry about.

If there’s one area Momentum could improve, it’s in lighting. Adding integrated taillights or brake lights—features that are becoming increasingly common—would only enhance safety and value. But in terms of performance? No notes, it’s a great setup that riders will appreciate.

Momentum clearly put thought into rider comfort, and the Vida E+ delivers a solid overall experience, though there are a few areas that could improve.

The frame design inspires confidence at speed, with an easy step-over and a cockpit that feels natural. The reach is on the shorter side but never cramped, and the swept-back handlebars kept me upright and comfortable. At 6’1” with a 32” inseam on a size L model, I had full leg extension and a comfortable pedal position. Personally, I wouldn’t have minded a slightly higher bar or an adjustable stem, but the stock setup worked well enough for me.

Aesthetically, the frame looks clean. Our white paint job (Mountain Air color) had that premium, glossy look to it, and the other two color options look sharp as well Caramel Cinnamon and Abyss Black). Cable braiding and headset routing keep the front tidy, and I appreciated the chain guard. That said, the underside could use protection—when I paused pedaling in 7th or 8th gear, the chain can flop down and kiss the chainstays, so a slap guard would help preserve the paint from grease or dings.

The ride benefits from wide tires that add balance and grip, paired with a Suntour XCM suspension fork offering 80mm of travel. The fork felt supportive, using its full range to smooth bumps without sagging under my weight (230 lbs). Overall, the suspension struck a nice balance of plush and supportive.

I was a fan of the touch points: the saddle is supportive and includes a built-in carry handle, and the grips are wide, ergonomic, and comfortably textured at the finger tips.

The color display is compact, and I had trouble seeing it in direct sunlight without engaging the headlight, which boosts the brightness. It lets you cycle between speed, cadence, odometer, and more. When paired with Giant’s RideControl app, you can adjust speed settings, run diagnostics, or mount your phone for a larger display with GPS navigation and Strava integration. The app also features a password lock, although I’ve had some trouble with it and am working with Momentum to confirm its functionality.

The Vida E+ leans cruiser, but comes alive as a commuter with some add-ons we were sent to try. I think some features—like a throttle and integrated lights—should be standard, while fenders and mirrors are nice but optional. The MIK-compatible racks are excellent: 33 lbs up front and 55 lbs in the rear. They accept a wide range of quick-mount accessories.

I also liked Momentum’s G-2 clip pannier system. It’s secure, easy to release, and spacious with a 20L roll-top design, and water-repellent materials (which we got first-hand experience there; thank you monsoon season!) that doubles as a backpack with the included strap.

As Momentum is part of the Giant family that means Vida riders have access to one of the largest dealer networks, making service and support pretty easy.

Momentum’s Vida E+ is a hybrid that blends cruiser-style comfort and accessibility with true commuter pace and purpose. After a second stint with the SyncDrive hub motor, my first impression holds: engagement is crisp, power and speeds are solid, and the sound profile stays relatively unobtrusive.

The Vida E+ handles well, looks sharp, and its utility scales quickly with a few key add-ons. I do wish a throttle and integrated lights were standard at this price for convenience and a little more safety; where it gives up a point on value there, it earns one back with Giant’s backing; few brands match its dealer network for sales, setup, and aftercare.

By the numbers, testing was strong overall with standout braking performance; by the more subjective “vibe” metric, it passes too; the Vida E+ is comfortable enough for long rides and fun enough to make you want them. If the Vida E+ is on your list, you can check availability through local retailers via the button above.

Happy Riding! Please let us know if you have any questions or if you think we’ve left anything out in this review of the Momentum Vida E+ in our comments section.