I especially like the addition of a shock, even if it is lower end and does not include a lock-out. It’s also backed by one of the largest ebike manufacturers around so parts and service are easier to come by. It’s inexpensive, relatively solid and offers several upgrades and replacements. There’s a reason this bike has been around so long and why so many used models are available and still running. Over time, this bike will become more rattly sounding than some other ebikes because the rear rack is bolt-on verses welded. The battery locks directly to the frame which is great for security. You can also switch which side of the bike the battery is on and balance your ride out! The pannier style side mount also let’s you balance out your own cargo with groceries on one side and the battery on the other. You’ll still have to buy that second battery, and most people don’t need that extra distance, but it’s a nice built in feature. The eZip Trailz is one of the few bikes out there designed to accommodate two batteries right from the get-go. The downside to v-brakes is riding in wetter conditions because if your rim gets wet it will create a bit more slip in the system and can also scratch the rims if you’ve gone through mud. They perform well and stop the bike very effectively, sometimes faster than disc brakes because they are mounted on the rim instead of the hub which provides more mechanical leverage. They won’t last as long as disc brakes before you have to get new pads but that’s super cheap (less than $10) and easy enough for nearly anyone to install with just a screwdriver and wrench. The brakes on the Currie eZip Trailz bikes are old style v-brakes that also serve to cut power to the motor when squeezed. Bikes with front drive systems require heavy duty forks and the shocks are less fluid. Also, since all of the drive energy is going into the rear wheel the front of the bike is easier to handle light for popping up curbs and making quick turns. This is a huge benefit over some fixed mid-drive systems that require you to work with the motor at set gear ratios. Sometimes when I ride cheaper bikes in this “low end” category I feel myself wondering if simply riding a lighter, faster bike would be as efficient and fast as going electric… but then I find myself passing road cyclists going up hills and I remember just how much work the motor is actually doing for me! This motor and drive system, as with most ebikes, is electronically limited at 20mph.īecause the motor is connected to the rear wheel and drives independently from rider pedaling action, you can pedal at any speed you want, fast or slow, and pick gears that fit your desired level of effort and speed. The motor provides a decent amount of torque and works well in PAS (pedal assist mode) and TAG (twist and go mode). The eZip Trails features a 450 Watt motor which is pretty powerful for an entry level bike (most are just 250 or 300) but it’s necessary for the heavier Lead acid battery and steel frame, especially if you add a second Lead Acid battery. It does mean there are more chains to deal with though, more rust, more noise and friction, and it also makes changing a flat harder. This sort of balances out the bike and allows the rider to stop pedaling without disrupting the motor which turns its very own chain. Picture this, on the left side of the rear wheel is the motor which is attached via chain and on the right side of the wheel are the normal chainrings attached to the pedal and cranks system. The external side-mounted motor performs great and isn’t that loud but will still be heard over something like a hub motor or mid-drive system. I found myself riding it more often and feeling less protective due to the low price and basic non-glamorous feature set. Sure, it’s sold at Walmart and seems so much more basic than other bikes but that’s actually one of its strengths. I’ve ridden all of the major brands out there and tried varying levels of ebikes but the Trailz is one of the most common and enduring models I’ve come across. The Currie eZip Trailz is one of the most affordable entry level ebikes around.
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