Blix Unveils Vika X With All-New Features
Blix introduces a new version of their popular folding e-bike that includes a torque sensor, an estimated range of up to 60 mi., hydraulic disc brakes and automatic shifting and PAS level selection.
Blix has announced a new version of their popular folding e-bike, the Vika. This new model, the Vika X will enjoy some upgrades and features that we haven’t seen on the Vika.
In their announcement, Blix said that the Vika X will give riders, “a significant leap forward in both technology, safety and ease of riding,” according to Blix founder and CEO Pontus Malmberg.
New features include the addition of a torque sensor and auto-shifting for both the drivetrain and the pedal-assist level. One of the PAS modes is labeled “AUTO” and it will cycle through the different assistance levels (ECO, TOUR and TURBO) depending on the rider’s level of effort. The electronics are now certified to UL 2849. The Vika X can also be unlocked for Class 3 riding for people looking for a folder than can make short work of their commute.
The auto-shifting system is one we haven’t encountered before. Electronics activate a motor that pulls the cable, changing gears based on the rider’s speed.
The brakes have been upgraded to hydraulic discs. Rider visibility has been enhanced thanks to the addition of brake lights, turn indicators and automatic sensors that turn the lights on and off. There’s even an electronic horn to alert pedestrians and drivers to your presence.
The new color display features auto-adjusting brightness and connects to the Blix app on your smartphone via Bluetooth. The display shows a variety of ride info including assist mode, current speed, range, trip distance, gear mode, odometer and calories burned. The app tracks additional data and enables users to change some settings.
Like its predecessor, the Vika+ Flex, the Blix Vika X is a folding e-bike. Blix says that the Vika X should offer riders up to 70 mi. per charge.
This compact folding e-bike is still a capable errand-runner. It can carry up to 87 lbs. in addition to the rider—up to 55 lbs. on the rear rack and an additional 32 lbs. on the front.
As of press time, Blix Bikes is taking preorders on the Vika X. It will come in four colors: racing green, burgundy, nu cream and slate gray.
Electric Bike Report’s take
The Blix Vika X is a notable step forward in rider experience thanks to the addition of a torque sensor and the auto shifting functions. Thanks, in part, due to the torque sensor, the Vika X will enjoy a big jump in potential range, from 45 mi. per charge to an estimated 70 mi.
Like the Vika, the Vika X will fold into a very compact package in just seconds.
Many similar folding e-bikes emphasize fat tires and a suspension fork to yield a comfortable ride, what they don’t mention is that those big tires and that suspension fork add pounds and pounds to an e-bike. The current Vika weighs only 55 lbs. and the Vika X is likely to weigh in the same neighborhood because, like the Vika, it features a steel fork and the tires appear to be the same or similar 20 x 2.4-in. size. Less weight means it will not only be easier to pick up, it will also offer a somewhat livelier ride than heavier models.
Our test model for the Vika X just arrived, so we’ll have a full review in shortly to answer all the questions about it!
Rebecca says
I really want to see a full video on this bike! I have not seen any one review it yet on youtube and I have so many questions! I was thinking about getting the Vika+ Flex, but when I saw this on their website I thought I should hold back to see if this one is better.
John S. Bozick says
We’re in the middle of testing it now, so stay tuned for the full review in the near future.