Retrospec Valen Rev 2 Review, 2024 | A Solid, Affordable, and Fun Moto-Style E-Bike

In most cases when performing our Range Test, we pedal every bike in its highest and lowest assist settings until the battery expires, using Strava to track our mileage and other useful data. Beginning with the Valen Rev 2 (and continuing with future moto-style e-bikes) we tested the bike using only its throttle with the assumption that most riders will choose to operate the bike this way.

With a 500 watt-hour (Wh) battery, the Rev 2 covered 23.5 miles over the course of an hour and 19 minutes using only throttle power. Our contact at Retrospec advised us that the bike’s estimated throttle-only range is 20 miles, so we were satisfied with the bike’s ability to meet and slightly exceed this figure.

Comparing these results with those of other moped-style e-bikes we have tested is difficult; with no other throttle-only test data at the time of writing, this would be an apples and oranges situation.

We can, however, consider how our maximum- and minimum-assist results usually compare with each other. On average, our PAS 5 results yield two-thirds the mileage of our PAS 1 tests, where the bike benefits from some degree of added effort (and increased efficiency) from the rider. In this test, our throttle results were roughly half of Retrospec’s advertised maximum range of up to 49 miles; this makes sense considering that the motor was doing 100% of the heavy lifting.

We consider the Rev 2’s throttle result of 23.5 miles to be practical for commuting to work or school, running errands, or meeting up with friends. For those who want more range, the Valen Rev plus has a higher capacity battery and a higher cost, but we were satisfied with the Rev 2’s results based on its specs and price.

On throttle, our test rider Justin finished the test in 1 minute and 32 seconds, and maintained an average speed of 11.8 miles per hour. His results with added pedaling in PAS 5 were 1 minute and 27 seconds at 12.5 miles per hour.

For comparison purposes, we disregarded a few of the similar bikes we have tested; a higher voltage motor and battery gave them an unfair advantage. With those bikes removed from our pool of data, the Rev 2’s throttle results matched perfectly with the category average.

The bike’s results in the pedal portion of the Hill Test were somewhat below average, but not without merit. The Valen’s 750W rear-hub motor peaks at 850 watts and produces 65 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque; this amount of output is also below average when considering that similar bikes can average over 1000W of peak power and 80 Nm of torque.

Regardless, we consider the Rev 2 successful simply due to its completion of this test; the challenge presented by Hell Hole Trail is extreme regardless of motor power. We understand that speed is highly sought after for some riders, however, so I wish to note that the higher-end Valen Rev Plus was faster in both portions of this test.

With that in mind, the Valen Rev 2 showed that it has more than enough power to provide riders with the option of throttling or pedaling when encountering hills.

This above average result is made even more impressive when considering that this bike uses a mechanical brake system; we typically expect such responsive stopping power from hydraulic disc brakes.

There are two main reasons for the Rev 2’s performance: first, with a total weight of 65 pounds, the bike is significantly lighter than a majority of the other moped-style bikes we have tested, which often weigh between 80-90 pounds or more. With such a large difference in weight, the Valen Rev 2 is much easier to bring to a stop.

Second, the bike is equipped with a high-quality Tektro Aries brake system with large 180mm rotors. While mechanical brakes are less common on e-bikes, this system has consistently performed well when we have encountered it.

In truth, I am often surprised to learn when a bike is equipped with this system as it reliably shows aggressive stopping power and quick bite. I usually associate this feel with hydraulic brakes.

Based on its feel and measured performance, we can confidently say that Retrospec chose a safe and effective brake set for the Valen Rev 2.

Many moped-style e-bikes include short saddles, but we were delighted by the Rev 2’s extended seat. The foam helped to absorb bumps and vibrations from the road, which was especially appreciated considering the absence of any sort of suspension. It also allowed for better leg extension when pedaling; those relying on the throttle might be able to accommodate a passenger when scooted forward. We also liked the BMX riser bars and the standard rubber grips; these suited the feel of the bike well.

The bike is offered in a single frame size for riders between 5’ and 6’4”. This range is reasonable with the bike’s geometry. Taller riders may feel somewhat cramped, though the long saddle should help to alleviate this.

Unusually (in a good way), the Valen is offered both in a step-thru and a step-over frame; this choice is one that is uncommon for bikes of this style. In most cases, buyers are left with only one option, so we recognize Retrospec for going the extra mile.

As mentioned previously, the Rev 2’s motor seemed relatively sluggish to engage; a few seconds passed before it activated when using the throttle, and when pedaling, engagement took roughly 3 turns of the cranks at times. We had a much different experience with more rapid engagement on the Valen Rev Plus, so we encourage Retrospec to improve the responsiveness of the Rev 2.

The Valen handled well for a bike of its style; moto-style e-bikes with dual-crown forks aren’t known for their excellent maneuverability. I would describe its handling as predictable and normal, once it is understood that bikes of this style cannot turn on a dime.

In terms of its user interface, we found the LED indicator panel to be simple and effective. The Rev 2’s setup made the bike easy to operate and included the basics, though of course this is one of the most obvious areas of difference between the Valen Rev Plus and the Rev 2.

We consider the Rev 2 to be well-specced for its price, but prospective buyers should consider the major differences between both versions of the bike; the Rev Plus includes a color LCD screen with a speedometer, fenders, a suspension fork with 100mm of travel, a larger battery, and Class 3 speeds up to 28 mph.

Overall, we appreciated the Valen Rev 2’s simplicity and comfort; these made the bike enjoyable and easy to ride for miles and miles. We also think the bike looks cool! Its frame design is relatively unusual, and most moto-style e-bikes are offered only in blacks and greys. We loved the “Matte Riptide Blue!”

Of course, a higher-end version of the bike exists for those who prefer to have their cake and eat it too, but we appreciate that Retrospec created a more affordable model that might make owning a practical, cool-looking, and quality e-bike a reality! As industry advocates, anything that encourages non-cyclists to become more active is a massive win.

The bike has a couple of minor flaws – including delayed motor engagement and a touchy throttle – that we hope to see improved in the future. But otherwise, the Valen Rev 2 demonstrated respectable – and in some cases, remarkable – performance in our series of standardized tests.

We think this bike will be a great fit for those seeking a unique-looking moto-style e-bike that won’t break the bank. It’s fun and practical whether used for commuting or leisure riding, earning two solid thumbs up from the reviewers here at Electric Bike Report!

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Retrospec Valen Rev 2 down in our comments section.