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Ride1UP Prodigy Review, 2024 | XC Variant with an Appetite for Dirt Roads

Style, Looks, and Quality for Riding in the City and Off-road

In this review for the Ride 1Up Prodigy e-bike, we cover all the important parts that make this a great lightweight, long range, quality built, all-terrain e-bike, at an affordable price. The highlight features of our XC variant include an energy efficient motor that delivers the right power when you need it, good off-road tires, front fork suspension, and an overall design that will appeal to a large number of riders. Combined with its sturdy build, practical design and rider-friendly components, the Prodigy also looks sharply stylish wherever you ride to.

As you go through this Ride1UP Prodigy review it’s worth pointing out that our XC model comes standard with a few different specs than what you’d find on the XR or ST models, and this one will largely be better suited for lighter dirt trail riding where the others are more paved path-friendly. At any rate, keep reading and find out how this e-bike delivers on many fronts.

*Looking for the latest on the Prodigy? Check out the Ride1UP Prodigy V2 LX review.

E-Bike News: Denago eMTBs, Norco Go Bosch SX & More!

This week’s news has a great batch of new e-bike announcements, clearly demonstrating various current trends in the e-bike world. Denago was founded in 2022 by a group of e-bike industry veterans. The brand places a major focus on providing quality products at an affordable price point, backed up by excellent customer service – and they are looking to further that mission with the launch of a couple of hardtail e-mtbs that use Bafang mid-drives, adding to their range of established keenly-priced and well-specced hub motor models.

Norco and Santa Cruz are well known for making premium e-bikes and have both moved into the lightweight space by taking advantage of a new breed of lightweight mid-drive motor. Premium bike company Specialized have made a further move into the e-cargo bike market with a long tail model to go with their previously announced shortail Globe Haul model. And if e-cargo models appeal but are just too expensive for you then Wombi is bringing the chance to subscribe to Tern e-bikes to the US.

In this week’s e-bike news:

Denago’s eXC mid-drive e-mtbs now in stock
Norco spec Bosch’s Performance Line SX mid-drive on new lightweight full-sus e-mtbs
More detail of Specialized’s Globe Haul LT revealed
Santa Cruz Skitch uses Fazua Ride 60 mid-drive for lightweight gravel / commuter style e-bike
Wombi offering Tern e-bike subscription in LA

Should E-bikes Have UL-Certified Batteries?

If this seems a strange question to ask, you’re not alone. Most of the electrical products in our homes benefit from UL—that is, Underwriters Laboratories—certification. What you might not be aware of is that with some products UL certification is not mandatory; it’s optional. In our increasingly unregulated world, many companies see voluntary certification systems as an expense that costs money and slows down the path to introducing a new product to the market, not to mention stifling innovation (or so the argument goes).

What UL certification does is verify that a product meets a standard set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The CPSC issues rules regarding everything from TVs to children’s clothing, not to mention bike helmets. And as we mentioned in our opening, certification is not mandatory. Companies may choose to ignore CPSC rules.

UL certification can’t promise that a product won’t ever fail, but what it does promise is that the manufacturer has met the standards set by the CPSC. Seeing the UL certification logo on a product is an ideal way to reassure consumers that the product in question meets an agreed-upon threshold of safety.

The Cost of E-Bike Battery UL Certification

For a company in a rush to bring an e-bike battery to market (see our guide to e-bike batteries for more information), UL certification represents a not insignificant cost. The laboratory that performs the tests required will charge somewhere between $15,000 and $20,000 and will need to be supplied with 52 battery packs – a substantial expense in its own right.

In addition to the financial cost associated with e-bike UL certification, the lab performing the tests will need 10-12 weeks to conduct the tests and issue a report on their results. A three-month lead time can mean missing the window necessary for delivering batteries to a manufacturer in time for that year’s selling season.

It’s easy to see how a company focused on the bottom line of sales may see the expense of both time and money as more than they are willing to bear.

Mokwheel Basalt ST Review

Built To Roam Most Places and Power Almost Anything Electric Thanks To Unique Accessories

How do you make a fat tire e-bike standout in a pretty crowded market? A bright splash of color helps, make it fast as a bullet and you’ll be sure to get noticed too, and round it off with the promise of accessories that enable you to use the sun to power the bike, or have the bike power up most of your electronics too. Yup, that’ll help it standout! In our review of Mokwheel’s newest iteration of its fat tire Basalt Step Through (ST), we cover this e-bike’s performance and cover all its best features.

The Basalt ST has all the hallmark traits of the Basalt high step model we reviewed, with the added bonus of being easier to get on ride without a top-tube. Shorter riders, or folks who don’t love swinging a leg over a bike in general will appreciate the ST frame here.

Mokwheel’s Basalt line is known for the massive batteries that lend many miles to a speedy motor. This bike has a torque sensor for splitting the work difference better with the rider, but it’s still the type of bike that’ll happily do all the work for you if that’s your preference.

Thanks to the large 26″ X 4″ fat tires, and just enough comfort features and adaptability for different riders, the Basalt ST can dominate the roads or the dusty trails alike. But if you spring for the optional power inverter and solar panels, it can become you’re roving power plant that charges all manner of electronics via that big ball of burning gas in the sky. It becomes enticing and easy to imagine some camping trips with, doesn’t it?

Overall the bike is a solid value and left us with a lasting impression. It isn’t without a couple of drawbacks, but the Basalt ST overall is a bike worth a further look into if you’re on the hunt for something that’s burlier and ready to go fast. For all the details, continue on in our Mokwheel Basalt Step-Through review.

Torque Sensors vs. Cadence Sensors on Electric Bikes

In order for an e-bike motor to know when to turn on or off, it must receive a signal from the controller, and in order for the controller to know when to turn the motor on or off, it needs to know when the rider is pedaling. To do that, all e-bikes are equipped with one of two kinds of sensors, either a cadence sensor or a torque sensor.

Until fairly recently, there wasn’t much need to discuss how the two types of sensors might influence a buyer’s choice. That’s because cadence sensors were found almost exclusively on e-bikes at the more affordable end of the market and torque sensors were only found on higher-end e-bikes. That’s no longer the case; thanks to a drop in the cost of torque sensors, we now see them on some e-bikes that cost less than $2000, which makes the spec of sensor another factor to consider when choosing an e-bike.

Cadence sensors and torque sensors work in very different ways and their presence on an e-bike will determine just how the motor delivers power. That gives an e-bike one of two different personalities, which the writers at Electric Bike Report will explain in this article.

One type of sensor is not inherently better than another; they are simply different. That said, most riders find that they develop a preference for one type of sensor over the other.

Torque vs. cadence: What’s the difference?

So let’s take a look at how the two different sensors work. Both sensors work by detecting pedal movement, or more accurately, motion at the crankset, but they do so in two different ways. We’ll start with cadence sensors, as they are simpler and easier to understand.

A cadence sensor mounts a ring of sensors (usually 12) at the part of the frame called the bottom bracket. This refers to the set of bearings that thread into the frame. A magnet is mounted to one of the crank arms and as it turns that magnet passes a sensor. Each time this happens a signal is sent to the controller to activate or sustain the motor.

A cadence sensor works on a binary principle: Are the pedals turning, or not? They have to move at a consistent speed to keep the motor activated, but above that, it doesn’t matter how fast they turn. Also, all cadence sensors are different, but most require at least a quarter-turn of the cranks to engage the motor. For as long as the cadence sensor detects pedal movement, it will continue to send a signal to the controller, telling the motor to do its thing.

A torque sensor is quite a different beast. With a torque sensor, strain gauges measure how hard the rider is pedaling. These strain gauges may be mounted in the bottom bracket or they may be mounted on the frame where the rear wheel bolts into place.

When the torque sensor receives a signal, it measures how big the effort is and then sends that message to the controller. The controller then tells the motor how hard to work in proportion to the PAS level the rider has selected.

Because the two sensors deliver different signals to the controller, the controller has to work on a different principle based on the kind of signal it receives. With a cadence sensor, each PAS level is set to a fixed amount of output. PAS 1 might be 20 percent of total nominal power, while PAS 5 might be 100 percent of total nominal power.

With a torque sensor the controller works by an inverse principle. Upon receiving a signal from the torque sensor, the controller measures how big that signal is and then multiplies it by the amount determined by the PAS level the rider has selected. With a torque sensor, PAS 1 might deliver power at a 1:1 ratio; PAS 2 might be a 1:2 ratio (the motor delivering double the power the rider is producing) and PAS 4 (often called “Turbo” on many e-bikes with torque sensors) might deliver power at a 1:4 ratio. This is why the motor’s output is constantly adjusting in response to the rider’s effort.

Santa Cruz Skitch First Look

Santa Cruz, California-based Santa Cruz Bicycles introduced their first e-bike models, the Heckler and the Bullit in 2020, just as the pandemic turned the e-bike industry upside down. They’ve now added another e-bike to their lineup, the Skitch, which straddles two worlds.

The Skitch is pitched as an e-bike that can be set up as either a gravel e-bike or a commuter. In truth, it’s more versatile than that, but marketing an e-bike as either appropriate to paved roads or dirt roads is a good way to say it’s made for all roads, and that’s where the genius of this e-bike blossoms.

What sets the Skitch apart from the Heckler and the Bullit goes to the heart of this e-bike’s identity. It’s made for 700C wheels, features no suspension—front or rear—and can be set up with either a flat bar or a drop bar.

Overview

Santa Cruz suggests in their marketing materials an either/or identity for the Santa Cruz Skitch. Is it a gravel e-bike or is it a commuter e-bike? It’s both! It’s neither!

The backbone, literally and figuratively, for the Skitch is the Fazua Ride60 system that integrates both the motor and the battery in the frame’s down tube. This is a 250W mid-drive motor that is easily missed due to its size.

The Ride60 motor is powered by a 430Wh battery which is estimated to give riders 60 mi. or more of range per charge.

Most high-end e-bikes are eMTBs, which are produced as Class 1 machines with a maximum speed of 20 mph and do not include a throttle. This is because not all trail systems allow e-bikes and the ones that do almost always specific only Class 1 e-bikes with a maximum speed or 20 mph. The legacy bike brands, knowing that many trail systems don’t permit e-bikes yet, choose not to poke the bear with an e-bike that breaks all the local trail rules, not just some of them.

The Skitch, because it isn’t an eMTB, takes a different approach. Because it’s aimed at roads, they’ve made this a Class 3 e-bike with a maximum pedal-assist speed of 28 mph. It does not include a throttle.

Murf Higgs Step-Thru Review, 2024

What you’ll find in this Murf Higgs Step-thru review is a bike that is angling to be the utility e-bike shorter riders have been waiting for. If you want an uncomplicated ride with enough performance to help you get out and enjoy fresh air more, the Higgs Step-thru aims to please.

A 15.5” stand over height on burly 20″ X 4″ tires make this easy ride for shorter riders, but it scales up decently for taller riders who want a more compact bike to hit the throttle on.

The Higgs ST is one of the newer members of the Murf e-bike family, but don’t let it’s smaller size fool you. It delivers quick acceleration, better-than-expected range and it’s easy to maneuver, confirming it’s no spruced up kids’ bike with its adult-sized power.

Cranking out impressive speed and acceleration, the 500-watt motor runs on a 52-volt system that makes for a fun ride while producing good efficiency in the range department.

It sports a utilitarian role as it’s designed with carrying plenty of gear in mind. It has a hauling capacity of 100 lbs on its rear rack – nearly two times greater than the average we find on most e-bikes, thanks to its frame-welded rear rack. So not only does this bike give you fun, it also gives you a break from having to use a car for shopping and running errands, or for loading up for a day at the beach.

This Murf Higgs Step-through felt like a a good overall emblem for what Murf describes as its roots as a company; It’s a chill ride meant to make going about your daily activities easier and more enjoyable. It isn’t overly sophisticated, but it’s flexible enough for your needs and easy to operate so you can enjoy just hopping on, hitting the throttle and going. Simplification can come with some drawbacks, and the Murf Higgs Step-thru has one or two of those, but those will lie in the eye of the beholder and how they want to ride it.

For all our thoughts and performance results read through the rest of our Murf Higgs Step-thru review.

E-Bike News: QuietKat Lynx, 26.5lb 3T Ultra Boost & Lots More!

If it were still needed, this week’s news shows proof of the huge difference in approach to e-bike design by many manufacturers in the US and European markets. The QuietKat Lynx (from a Colorado-based company) looks ultra powerful and ultra capable, with its huge 2 speed hub motor and software switching to allow it to be used in different conditions where different legal rules as to power and speed may apply. Weight considerations are clearly secondary to all this as this definitely won’t be a light e-bike.

By contrast, Italian company 3T has a lightweight racing bike background, so it’s no surprise they have come up with a 26.5lb electric gravel bike. Assist is limited to the max Euro-allowance of 15.5mph and there is no throttle and no means of varying the top speed for different legal regimes. It’s clearly aimed at those with at least some inclination towards sporty bike riding – very possibly ‘converts’ from the world of non-assisted cycling. The bikes are about as far apart as assisted two wheelers can get and offer vastly different pros and cons, but both call themselves e-bikes; that breadth of design is one of the beauties of the e-bike world.

In this week’s e-bike news:

QuietKat Lynx – a super capable full-sus e-bike with dual speed motor
Propella’s latest lightweight w/ torque sensor
3T’s new e-gravel bike weighs 26.5lbs
E-quad delivery vehicles to be legalised in NYC bike lanes
Driven’s Clever Orbit Drive Seeks Equity Crowdfunding
Yet more on the Van Moof bankruptcy saga

Ride1UP 700 Series ST Review | Commfortable Commutes

Keep up with friends or with traffic on this affordable commuter.

Of the many pieces of advice consumers regularly hear, “You get what you pay for,” is common enough to be a cliche. The thing is, it’s not always true, which is why shopping for any major purchase can become a hobby. Ride1UP’s e-bikes have served as consistent examples of e-bikes that deliver more per dollar than most. When we look at e-bikes that are comparable to Ride1UP’s models in terms of spec and features, what we generally find is that the Ride1UP model saves buyers $100-$200. In our Ride1UP 700 ST review we will showcase what makes this e-bike such a terrific value.

Riders looking for a commuter that can keep up with the flow of traffic will find the Ride1UP 700 ST to be a satisfying experience; it didn’t have any trouble reaching a cruising speed that would allow a rider to keep up with the flow of traffic from light to light. This step thru variant makes popping forward at stops all the easier too.

A 750W brushless, geared Bafang hub motor provides the muscle necessary to reach 28 mph on pedal assist, which is no small feat (and uncommon for me, speaking as a 230 lbs rider). Powering it is a 720Wh battery that provides plenty of range but is also light enough that this e-bike weighs less than 70 lbs.

The Ride1UP 700 ST is a ready-to-go commuter, coming equipped with front and rear lights, alloy fenders and a rear rack. Just add saddle bag.

Hitting value-oriented price points usually comes with a trade or two. It may come in the form of getting a more powerful motor but not receiving a rack or fenders. With Ride1UP, we can usually determine where they made their trades to hit the price point, but the sacrifices tend to be minor and feel like no real loss. The 700 ST only really lacks sizing options, and the assembly isn’t harder than most, but includes a few more steps than the average.

The overall spec on the Ride1UP 700 ST delivers a reliable ride again and again thanks to features like an 8-speed Shimano Acera drivetrain and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. We also like that Ride1UP chose 27.5-in. wheels which roll faster and handle better at speed than smaller wheels.

It’s a great ride on it’s own, but feels better when considering its price tag. For all the Ride1UP 700 ST has going for it, read the full review below.

Troxus Trax 30/750 Review

Versatile Commuter Ebike, With Lots of Customization Options to Fit Almost Any Rider, Whether it’s for Short Commutes or Long Range Adventures

In the following review of the Troxus Trax, you will discover how this versatile Dutch-style commuter e-bike can help you branch out, adding greater variety to your rides while also taking you further than you thought possible. This bike is intended for urban exploring, all it needs is a rider with a taste for adventure and a willingness to ride.

The specific model we were sent for review is the Troxus Trax 750/30. What makes the Trax unique is how it’s one of the few DTC e-bikes that let’s you pick your setup in a variety of way. The base model is a fully rigid 500W motor with a 15Ah battery. You can climb up in terms of motor power, battery size and extra comfort to our test bike’s level with its 750W motor, 30Ah battery and front suspension fork and suspension seat post. All these choices span the three different frame sizes and three color options as well. Essentially you can pick based on needs and budget, which isn’t something you find a lot of, but is a nice way to stand out in the greater e-bike market.

The Trax is fitted with nice components from well-known brand names, the Trax is meant to hold its own, wherever you take it, and power you along with reliable performance.

After riding it for over 150 miles, and testing its performance in a myriad of ways, we discovered pretty quickly what this e-bike is all about. Keep reading, and you will, too.

Ride1UP Prodigy Review, 2024 | XC Variant with an Appetite for Dirt Roads

Style, Looks, and Quality for Riding in the City and Off-road

E-Bike News: Denago eMTBs, Norco Go Bosch SX & More!

Should E-bikes Have UL-Certified Batteries?

The Cost of E-Bike Battery UL Certification

Mokwheel Basalt ST Review

Built To Roam Most Places and Power Almost Anything Electric Thanks To Unique Accessories

Torque Sensors vs. Cadence Sensors on Electric Bikes

Torque vs. cadence: What’s the difference?

Santa Cruz Skitch First Look

Overview

Murf Higgs Step-Thru Review, 2024

E-Bike News: QuietKat Lynx, 26.5lb 3T Ultra Boost & Lots More!

Ride1UP 700 Series ST Review | Commfortable Commutes

Keep up with friends or with traffic on this affordable commuter.

Troxus Trax 30/750 Review

Versatile Commuter Ebike, With Lots of Customization Options to Fit Almost Any Rider, Whether it’s for Short Commutes or Long Range Adventures

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Blog

Style, Looks, and Quality for Riding in the City and Off-road

The Cost of E-Bike Battery UL Certification

Built To Roam Most Places and Power Almost Anything Electric Thanks To Unique Accessories

Torque vs. cadence: What’s the difference?

Overview

Keep up with friends or with traffic on this affordable commuter.

Versatile Commuter Ebike, With Lots of Customization Options to Fit Almost Any Rider, Whether it’s for Short Commutes or Long Range Adventures

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