Hot take: your $800 Amazon e-bike isn’t a good recommendation
Posted by Inevitable_darkelf@reddit | ebikes | View on Reddit | 142 comments
The confidence level of advice on r/ebikes is impressive considering how many people here bought their first bike last year.
Hub motors on suspension forks, random Amazon kits, sealant fixes for everything…
Then mechanics get called “gatekeepers” for explaining basic physics.
irony_delerium@reddit
I mean, I've been riding bicycles since I was 8 - 36 years, now.
Used a few bikes with hub motors (here in Portland, the city-wide bike sharing program has them - kinda heavy, but workable; not overly high power).
The one I installed a conversion kit on worked better, I think - partially because the motor had higher output, partially because I was able to take advantage of the built-in gearing and such since I went with a mid-drive motor, not a hub motor.
I did spend a bit of time researching it - could probably have gone with a TSDZ8 instead of a TSDZ2B for the motor, but otherwise, it was fine. Now if only people weren't jackasses - someone stole it a month or so ago, and so I've been getting another put together using a tricycle, since we had it around.
JBKBCBAB@reddit
I have one of those bikes, because I couldn’t justify spending 2k+ without knowing how much I would really like it/use it.
Well I love it, so now I’m trying the learn as much as I can.
For a newb like me, what should I focus on learning first? What to avoid when looking at e-bikes? What are the crucial specs to look for? And what are some red flags to watch for?
Scavenge101@reddit
It's one of those things where ANY mechanical or electrical application experience you have will be hugely beneficial. The genre is changing so rapidly the only reason I don't immediately call anyone recommending $2k+ bikes to beginners paid shills is because those tend to be the only constant products that you can verify the build quality on. And even then...
What to look for? If the bike goes faster than 18mph it needs a dedicated braking system. The battery needs to have a regulations-based certification. Frame should also be an aluminum alloy or at least chrome steel. And yeah these aspects usually mean you won't be getting anything below $600. And then you should look for local regulations, if a cop catches you going more than 28mph you could catch a fine. My areas regulations are 750w and/or 28mph top speed. More than that and it needs to be registered as a moped (which is only like 15 bucks but still).
If you're getting anything below $1k try to make it something that has verifiable reviews, and not just amazon reviews. It's great if you can find some reddit threads and facebook conversations about it. Otherwise you're not NECESSARILY gonna get a shit product online, because Chinese bikes are constantly shifting and some are good/some are bad, but the risk rises dramatically.
DonnPT@reddit
"Dedicated brake system"?
What would a buyer be looking for here, beyond just "OK, has brakes"?
I hope you are not going say "must be hydraulically operated".
Scavenge101@reddit
Well hydraulics would be optimal but it should at least not be a fuckin' rubber stopper on the wheel frame like regular ass bikes. You can do mechanical disc brakes and not hydraulic but if you're going above 25, it's gonna be a pretty long stop. Nothing wrong with that but you NEED to ride safely.
There was that recent video with the kid riding on the sidewalk going WAY too fast, and a truck pulls in and the kid rams into it sidelong. Guarantee you that kid had mechanical brakes, you can see him slow down hard but not stop.
frogs_fear_me@reddit
Nah man. People used rim brakes or mechanical discs for decades, stopping on mountainsides. The issue is just quality of components and keeping them maintained. Gonna be the same for hydro.
Scavenge101@reddit
Well sure but we're not talking regular bicycles, we're talking ebikes that may be going 20 mph. Your brakes need to have give to them, they can't lock the wheel up or shits gonna break at a really inopportune moment. If we're talking a 15mph city bike, probably not an issue. But since we're talking amazon transit bikes, I don't think they'd be suitable.
But maybe I'm wrong, I can't say i've exhaustively tested analogue brake systems in all capacities.
frogs_fear_me@reddit
People riding mountain bikes have been stopping at crazy speeds for decades. It worries me that people might mistake having hydraulic brakes for reliability- they’re subject to contamination of pads and rotors, pads need to be checked and swapped, bedded when changed, and bled at appropriate intervals. None of this seems likely for an AliEx ebike buyer.
Scavenge101@reddit
Yeah and they're usually using disc brakes when they do it because V calipers lose effectiveness when they get dirty or wet. Yes a caliper brake can be effective but at certain speeds it either needs to be a specific 4-piston caliper that you aren't finding on Amazon, or discs. Literal professionals recommend them.
frogs_fear_me@reddit
What is a piston caliper brake?
It’s ok man, I love disc brakes in certain circumstances. I just don’t want naive buyers taking advice on Reddit that hydro brakes are universally good. They’re subject to the same issues as many other brake designs, and they’re not maintenance free.
AdBoring4472@reddit
Good hydro disc brakes have a lot less maintenance than any other type of brake, period. Every other brake system, save back pedal hub brakes, have cables. Cables stretch much quicker than hydro brakes need bleeding. All require pad replacement. V-brakes are good, but all rim brakes eventually wear the rim out and that needs to be replaced, which is far more challenging and expensive than changing a rotor.
Ebike weight 3x more than traditional bikes, go much faster on average, and are more often ridden by inexperienced riders. Hydro disc brakes should be mandatory for ebikes.
frogs_fear_me@reddit
Cable stretch = a turn on a barrel adjuster. I can do every action required for maintenance on a rim brake or cable disc with a small wrench and a set of hex keys.
What’s required for hydro discs?
Rim brakes and cable discs are not the most current tech but they work and are understandable by a large majority of the population.
I’m not denying that disc brakes make sense for heavy e-bikes. But acting like maintenance isn’t required for hydro brakes is how we will end up with tons of dangerous unmaintained junk bikes hurtling down bike paths. People should understand the fundamentals of bike maintenance OR be willing to spend what a shop charges before buying an ebike. Just like a car.
Advocate what people can maintain at a safe level, that’s it. Period.
Scavenge101@reddit
It's a V caliper with 4 points of contact
Well that was one of the things I was saying before, if you buy those kinda bikes (i.e. potentially dangerous road vehicles), they need consistent maintenance.
frogs_fear_me@reddit
I think you’re getting confused on terminology. A V brake is just a cantilever with the arms pointing straight up. No pistons. There were for a very short time hydraulic rim brakes, but these never caught on.
I would recommend you wrench on a few more bicycles before giving Reddit advice. E-bikes are cool. I have one. But they’re essentially a machine that has existed for a very long time, with a motor stuck on. All the same principles apply.
Scavenge101@reddit
I might be, it's a lot to keep track of when you work on bikes, cars/trucks, and boats all at once. Try not to do the backhanded insult shit, though. The subreddit already gets a really bad reputation on elitism, don't help it.
Either way, I'm really not gonna sit here and recommend otherwise. I've spent the last like 45 minutes trying to find a single source that recommends using a caliper brake on mountain bikes, only that inexpensive mountain bikes HAVE caliper brakes. Disc brakes are best for high speed/high torque setups.
lee1026@reddit
The Tour de France have downhill speeds of about 50 mph and up, and those guys stopped just fine with rims, with the last teams staying on rim brakes until 2024.
A lot of the issues with rim brakes is that carbon wheels don’t work well with them, but that’s not a serious concern on budget bikes.
Scavenge101@reddit
Generally they're using high quality calipers for the express purpose of changing a tire quickly and efficiently, not because they're the better brake system. And I guarantee you those calipers are brand new through every single race.
lee1026@reddit
There is definitely a massive maintenance advantage for discs, especially for those of us who rack up a lot of miles.
The biggest advantage is probably that I am on my third rotor, and I would be on my third rim if I were on a rim, and replacing the rim is pretty painful compared to replacing the rotor.
lee1026@reddit
A properly tuned rim brake with good pads will easily generate enough force to lock up a wheel.
Of course, tuning it is the hard part.
guisar@reddit
It was a moronic take altogether. Just some idiot spotting off mansplaining.
FigNinja@reddit
I don't necessarily trust reddit reviews, either. Companies shill on here, too. I approach them with skepticism, check out the poster's history, and ignore anything where they haven't had it long, or don't give realistic detail.
mycatisabrat@reddit
After a year and a half on my first bike, brakes and suspension are my main concerns. The bumpy rides over "repaired" potholes along the curbs can be a butt ache.
lee1026@reddit
What are your goals? Do you want a machine that is pleasant to pedal and happen to have a motor, or do you want a machine to move you around with a minimum of fuss?
If you want a machine for transportation, you will end up with this post is decrying. Look at the delivery riders, who have more miles than anyone else, and they ride… huh motors, suspension forks, sealant and throttles.
It won’t be fun to ride, but that won’t be everyone’s goals.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
A lightweight bike with a hub motor and a precise torque sensor can be fun to ride. Too many dismiss hub drives out of hand as if they all still use cadence sensors.
lee1026@reddit
The twin goals of torque and speed means that a hub motor will likely pay a weight penalty compared to a mid drive.
On the other hand, you get maintenance benefits on the hub motor because you (effectively) don’t have a chain to maintain.
The treks of the world aim for low weight, the delivery drivers of the world use hub motors. Two different goals, different bikes result.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
The delivery drivers of the world use 750W, 1000W, and 2000W hub drives.
A 350W hub drive is reasonably small and lightweight.
lee1026@reddit
Yeah, but a 350 watt hub drive going up a hill will be unpleasant.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
The subject wasn't hill climbing prowess.
The subject was can a hub drive be fun to ride.
lee1026@reddit
You are not wrong, but the reason why people want that motor is often the hills.
Mrmagoo1077@reddit
Depends on geography. City i used to live in there were hills everywhere.
DonnPT@reddit
OP: "hub motors on suspension forks."
If you have a hub motor on the rear wheel, suspension is good. The issue here (if I got it right) is just that heavy torque applied to telescoping fork tubes is asking for problems.
Hub motors are simple and economical. On the rear wheel.
Purrchil@reddit
This sub is strange for Europeans. You almost never see a common model here, when compared to Europe. Only cheap motorcycle/ moped styled brandless bikes.
BassesNBikes@reddit
For two generations now Americans have considered bicycles to be children's toys rather than a valid means of transportation, so we're well behind the curve.
qwertyqwerty4567@reddit
A lot of the people here, especially americans, dont actually want a bicycle. They want an unlicensed motorcycle they can throttle around.
BassesNBikes@reddit
The Sovereign Citizens of the bicycle world.
inline-online@reddit
yup, those people hate regular cyclists also
Cranks_No_Start@reddit
To me that’s all well and fine. It I know what it costs to build a decent bicycle that I would trust adding a motor to and the people are buying complete bikes for less than the Morton and battery.
That’s right up there with a $100 Chromebook. Junk in 6 months.
DonnPT@reddit
OK, I'll bite. American here, with a 2HP direct drive hub motor and a throttle, no PAS.
What's more, I got rid of my motorcycle about the same time. The two have some things in common. Want to hit the Asian food market several miles up the arterial, and get back in time to make dinner? Want to get around without undergoing an ordeal on some of the hills? When you're out on your "pedelec" pushing 20mph, you pedal, right? Sure you do. I do too. That means for ordinary people, ca. 100W, 200W if you're really into it. 20mph up hill takes a lot more than 200W. We're throttling around on an unlicensed motorcycle. It's OK. I still ride ordinary bicycle at times, if the route is free of really grueling hills, and more importantly, it isn't a narrow arterial with hills. I think you're probably right, that a lot of people come here with relatively bone headed ideas about what they're going to use an e-bike for, but there's a lot of overlap with ordinary practical transportation.
I've never tried to get along with a 250W motor. I have hunch that at least some setups sold as legal under that regime, actually have 20A controllers and can get you up a hill just fine, while sporting a motor that's "rated" at 250W. But while I'm now in Europe, I haven't yet needed to shop bicycles.
lee1026@reddit
EU/Japan/China have the 250 watt cap. US law allows for 750 watts, which is very different. Still not great for 20 mph hill climbs, but much closer.
Ironically, if you want a bike that take advantage of that extra headroom, you are probably not getting that from a LBS.
Purrchil@reddit
I think that in Europa peak power is already allowed higher than 250 watt.
lee1026@reddit
Peak power is allowed to be a lot more than 750 too; it isn’t uncommon to see 2 to 3kw peak power on US spec bikes.
Astr0Scot@reddit
Yup
I have an ebike with a 250w continuous motor what will provide higher peak power for hill climbing etc. It's basically nothing to use it on the steepest local hills which are quite a challenge on my road bike.
Purrchil@reddit
I’m awaiting a bike with a Performance Line Cx, also 750 watt peak power.
jedadkins@reddit
Most Americans can't totally replace thier car with an ebike so its harder to justify tge expensive bikes
umhlanga@reddit
My 2c, I got an e-bike on Black Friday, $650, got my kid. Movcan. You are basically buying a battery and a hub motor and a controller ... with some crappy components bolted on. Tires are shite and don't last long we got 200 miles so far but will have to replace with brand names for $150 eventually, front disc is already warped and my kid is not vertically challenged and the other components are pretty low end. I guess it's fine for the price, IT WAS BLOODY $650 and the shills or folks who ring the praises of Movcan on YouTube and the others, who knows, perhaps they have not ridden it much. Just know what you are buying, guess for the price and shitty components I am relatively happy. IT WAS $650 and my did didn't want to get a used super 72 for $1300. It's fun and also with an adult and kid on it can barely make it up a steep hill but that's ok.
Proxy345@reddit
If you're not doordashing everyday then a $800 Amazon ebike will definitely last long.
lastblackman@reddit
Note: This is my opinion as an American on here.
This my be an unpopular opinion, but I think the problem is most newbies aren't looking for an e "bicycle", they're looking for an e "moped/motorcycle" they don't have to get a license for.
You dont see many people asking about some box store level mountain bike with a battery slapped on it, its usually that same moped style with tiny pedals you wouldn't notice without looking hard.
Dick_Nation@reddit
I can see both sides of it. People are just trying to find a good deal, because shit's hard out there, but then they have to accept that a certain level of risk or liability is going to be involved as they go for something faster and/or heavier.
Now for something I imagine isn't going to be popular if I point it out: The real problem is that we live in a world where that liability cost is factored into insurance, because if someone gets seriously injured, those medical costs are coming out of their insurance plan. If we didn't expect private insurance to pay medical bills and had a single payer system in the US like they do in the rest of the civilized world, the burden wouldn't be on individual users and they'd try to skirt regulations less (and yes, this also does apply to car insurance).
BassesNBikes@reddit
Toy motorcycles. Yeah.
Dude_9@reddit
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lee1026@reddit
It’s the correct view. A lot of people just want cheap transportation, and they don’t care if the bike is a good “bicycle”, if it moves them around. They will just throttle around and don’t need shinamo groupsets and stuff.
And the cheap ebikes are designed to cater to them.
BassesNBikes@reddit
To rob. To rob them.
OhLoongJonson@reddit
My conversion kit had a hub that was broken from the very beginning. Thought the rim wasnt true, only to find it wasnt even attached to itself.
Instead of welding it together, they just put rivets in and called it a day.
Soltea@reddit
Yep anyone new here asking advice are advised into into buying illegal ebikes by other users constantly. I saw a post recently where the user asking for advise had to repeatly state that he actually wanted a legal ebike.
trevaftw@reddit
Considering that's how the sub advertises itself (IF iT hAs TwO WHEElS aND ElECTriC IT'S an eBiKe 🤪 ), it's not surprising.
rollin_a_j@reddit
I specifically looked for one that resembled an actual bicycle myself, my route to work doesn't have bike lanes so I ride on the (mostly, I've seen 3 people in 8 months) empty sidewalks.
Mobile_Ad8543@reddit
If someone is new to cycling, isn't familiar with the terminology, & needs/wants a starter/cheap ebike, AND such questions are common, is there a pinned post with good ebike choices for various conditions, topography, weight, power, cost points?
There are many ebike choices out there, so as an expert you can likely understand a new rider being overwhelmed & not being able to see through online reviews & influencer hype.
I'd advise against part terminology that would go over a typical new rider's head, unless a description is also given.
yeffyonson@reddit
Before the tariffs you used to be able to get a really good ebike for $800-1000. That's how much a lot of Lectrics, Aventons etc cost especially during sales.
My $900 Amazon special Philodo H8 bought in 22 is on it's 2nd owner with no issues outside of flat tires which isn't the bikes fault.
scifigirl1979@reddit
I have a 650 eskute v100, it’s sold as a kids bike (I’m 5’ tall). I have said multiple times that I would not recommend these types of bikes for a first time bike owners. Yes they’re easy to ride. They’re simple but the maintenance on them can be a lot. This is my third bike. I’ve been writing for six years. My first bike I put over 7000 miles on and I’ve done all my own maintenance on all of my bikes if you’re not mechanically inclined E bikes are gonna be a bit much
glo363@reddit
When a Giant, Specialized, or Stromer etc., with less than 10 miles on it is available on Upway for just over $1000 because it sat at a dealer until it was "old", there's no longer a reason to buy that $800 fire hazard on Amazon.
kinga_forrester@reddit
Don’t buy Stromers in North America.
Sincerely, former Stromer dealer.
Rhombinator@reddit
Dumb question, why not? It's been a while since I shopped for ebikes but years ago they were marketing themselves as the greatest car replacement ever (though the price always bewildered me). Or is it just the price is still absurd and there are great alternatives now?
guisar@reddit
they went bust- no parts or support available.
kinga_forrester@reddit
If anything goes wrong with the “””advanced””” electronics it’s a brick, because dealer and parts support is nonexistent. And they will go wrong, the electronic components are built stupidly fragile for some reason. (I think in pursuit of weight saving?) Also, the Omni system is a joke, it had advanced features by 2021 standards but it’s so laggy and clunky, and other bikes caught up on features.
Ok-Many4195@reddit
Locked in battery/electronics seems so stupid to me. When you consider the timeframe any good bicycle should last for at minimum (10 years). And the available components which are all lightweight and can attach to a regular frame. A motor kit makes so much sense
Rhombinator@reddit
Thanks for the catch up on ebikes! I've been lucky with my current bike but it's been almost 8 years now and the manufacturer has since gone under, so it's nice to get a pulse on where ebikes are these days and where the brands I remember went.
glo363@reddit
I had an ST2 for about a year before I got my Giant. I didn't have any issues with it myself, but if course that wasn't a lot of time to own it and I am a "analog" bike mechanic so basic issues are no big deal for me.
hysys_whisperer@reddit
Dude, show me where I can find a $1,000 with tax and fees included specialized and I'll buy it right now.
glo363@reddit
Well show me a million dollars on the ground and I'll pick it up too. But that's not what you said is it? Nor did I say what you are asking for.
There are name brand ebikes on Upway for just over $1000 like I said. I did not say that includes tax, delivery and any other fees, now did I?
It's also up to you to look and keep looking for those deals. They do in fact show up pretty often on Upway, but they also sell fast so you need to be looking and ready.
I bought my Giant Roam+ for $1100 on Upway, delivery included during a sale. It had 3 miles on it. These deals do exist, but it's not up to me to hold your hand and take you too them too.
hysys_whisperer@reddit
So you DO see my point. I can go pick up a heybike that will work for several thousand miles and won't cost more than a grand all in, and does use standard batteries which perform as advertised and don't catch fire. Is it nice? No, my huffy when i wad 10 was a nicer ride. Is it reliable? Yes.
MonzellRS@reddit
Battery is a reason
FigNinja@reddit
Yes. I think a lot of folks are ok with most of the tradeoffs with a cheap bike. The parts will wear out faster, so you'll be swapping them out over time. The thing I wish people were more aware of is the danger of shoddy batteries.
glo363@reddit
Possibly on some. I've had excellent luck with my Giant Roam+ I got on there for $1100. Been riding it for 2 years now and still haven't noticed much decline in the range.
lastblackman@reddit
It doesn't even have to be a legacy brand. Used Aventons, Lectrics, Velotrics, Ride1up Gotrax, etc can go for $1000 or lower if you're lucky. And you get something that has shop support and won't catch fire on you.
JSSOnTheRun@reddit
To be honest, there ARE good (and plenty of bad) e-bikes sold on Amazon. Don’t be deterred from buying one BUT… do your homework, read reviews, look at posts from existing users, do your homework. Important Key… make sure whatever bike you buy has a good battery! I don’t mean one that fully charges but one that’s top quality and safe. Don’t be deterred by the “imported (mostly Chinese made) bikes are garbage” crap. Most of those “American made QUALITY bikes” use parts made in China and are only assembled the States. If you do your homework, you can find a quality bike at a decent price.
thaginganinja@reddit
I get so much heat in here for recommending just going to an lbs to test ebikes. I've only been a bike mechanic for a decade, what do I know lmao.
DasGoat@reddit
The problem with recommending to go to a shop is they are trying to sell you something and don't have your best interest in mind. Or in my case there are very few bike shops around me and they only have commuter style ebikes, which is useless when your looking for a fat tire offroader. My cousin and his wife decided a couple months ago to buy ebikes and went to a shop without doing any research ahead of time. They went to a shop and left with 2 less than great bikes especially hers that she now refuses to ride.
I-Like-MTB@reddit
I have never joined this sub, however it’s recommended to me a lot (see username).
This should be a subreddit to do with nice, high quality electronically assisted bikes.
Instead it’s “WHERE THROTTLE BIKE CHEAP <£10”
Like dude, these bikes are completely fucking stuff up. In New Jersey I believe, they are making it so you need a number plate and insurance. Like wtf, a dad taking his kids to the shop on his S-works Levo is NOT the same as 13 yr old sammy on a shitty Surron without any gear.
thaginganinja@reddit
15mph speed limits and different rules in every state are coming BECAUSE OF THE EMOTOS PROMOTED HEAVILY ON THIS SUB. I'm so tired of it. Nyc, new jersey, and soon California all have adopted stricter ebike rules that affect normal users in an attempt to ban the exact devices people in here recommend heavily.
lee1026@reddit
It’s two different goals. Building a cheap, strong frame from steel is not expensive or hard. It will just be heavy. To make up for that, you throw in a powerful motor, and even 750 watt motors are cheap enough. You pay another price in weight, but 750 watts is a lot of watts.
You then throw some wheels with a lot of spokes on it, add some chains and pedals, and you have a bike for not a lot of money that will move people around.
It will be incredibly heavy, but if you are just riding around town, it’s not obvious why you care.
Look at the delivery riders: those guys have more miles than anyone else, and they need their bikes to work more than anyone else, and they are hardly riding around on treks.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
The comments I've seen aren't necessarily opposed to going to a LBS but assuming a LBS will have your best interests in mind.
BassesNBikes@reddit
In fairness, though, most people asking for buying advice here have little idea what their best interests are w/r/t buying, owning, and operating an e-bike.
anhphamfmr@reddit
what's wrong with rear hub motor on a suspension fork?
BassesNBikes@reddit
You can get away with a small, light one, but unsprung weight is not desirable and neither is applying forces to an inexpensive suspension fork that it was not designed for.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
I interpreted his statement as just poorly written to mean a rear hub with front suspension. Suggesting that a front suspension is only for offroad and a hub does poorly offroad.
I'm not aware of any sizeable brands throwing a hub motor on the front wheel. Aside from dual motors, that would be asinine.
BassesNBikes@reddit
Yeah. It's a DIY thing mostly.
lastblackman@reddit
For Americans, if you really only have $800 dollars to spend on an ebike you need RIGHT now, maybe take a visit to your local Walmart and check out what they have.
You can actually get a handle on how they feel, and you'll probably have an easier time with repairs or warranties than whatever random name generated Amazon moped you're eyeing right now.
hysys_whisperer@reddit
Unless they ask for a recommendation under $1,000. In which case it might or might not be a good recommendation.
hysys_whisperer@reddit
Maintaining a bike can be done by most 12 year olds, and if you make it more complicated than that, you're doing it unnecessarily.
Unnecessarily complicated isn't a bad thing persay, but it is by definition unnecessary.
DarkVoid42@reddit
explain how a 12yr old bleeds hydraulic brakes.
ProExpert1S500@reddit
Google?
Youtube?
Someone else who knows how to?
hysys_whisperer@reddit
With instructions the first 2 times and supervision the next 2.
Reelair@reddit
Same way a 22 year old would? I took my dad's lawnmower apart way younger than 12.
I-Like-MTB@reddit
Quite easily - definitely not pro 13 yr olds getting a shitty illegal surron, but bikes are fairly easy to wrench
Pheonyxxx696@reddit
I mean, I was 13 when I started to learn how to fix hydraulics on a front end loader. But that’s not something every teenager gets the chance to do
robotzor@reddit
Very carefully
Krostovitch@reddit
What nonsense... I've seen what grown adults do while trying to "maintain" their bikes. Machines need to be maintained in accordance with standards and procedures. Turns out humans don't come pre-programmed with the knowledge of those standards and procedures.
Further, an Amazon bike isn't made to be maintained. Best mechanic in the world wouldn't be able to actually make one of those death traps actually reliably work.
Add the inherent dangers of e bikes...
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
Almost anything can be done with access to YouTube videos and a desire to learn.
BassesNBikes@reddit
It's that last bit, though.
Recent_Requirement88@reddit
I'm a huge fan of Velotric ebikes, they're well made and designed for a lot of trouble-free enjoyment. If you're looking for a lightweight ebike that feels like a regular bike but offers that extra 'oomph' when you're climbing a hill and has a ton of features, the new Velotric Tempo is pretty amazing. I test rode one yesterday at a local bike shop and was extremely impressed!
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
There's nothing inherently wrong about "hub motors on suspension forks". And your take on FlatOut is incredibly naive. Far better to wipe down the inside of a tire once every three years than to go through a dozen or two tubes from thorn punctures. I don't know where you live, but it's obvious you don't deals with goat heads or you wouldn't be this anti-sealant.
Ok-Type-8917@reddit
I just went to air up my old Trek mountain bike that I made into my neighborhood cruiser, it's has FlatOut. I couldn't get air in which I've run into once before on a different bike. After sitting for the winter the valve stem was blocked. I pulled it out and about a third of a drywall screw shot out. The tire held air fine, I couldn't see the puncture in the tube and no mess in the tire. I have FlatOut in there ebikes, a scooter and the old Trek.
Inevitable_darkelf@reddit (OP)
💯
Spiritual_Builder240@reddit
I just popped both tires on a ride because goatheads.
I bought tubes with sealant and tire liner but the tire liner came way later and I started using the sealant tubes the moment I got them the same day.
When I got the liners and went to install them I realized I hit a couple new big ass goatheads but the sealant did its job so well I didnt even realize.
That sealant is a life saver fr.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
Yep, sealant is a no brainer in places infested with thorns where you can get back to back punctures.
Fit_Papaya_8911@reddit
So Einstein? How do you fix a puncture?
Why not have a puncture at all with a bit of sealant?
kinga_forrester@reddit
Unless you’re running tubeless slime just makes a mess.
theuberdan@reddit
I've had slime in my daily's tubes for about 4 years now and on at least 2 occasions (and probably a few more that I never even noticed) it's saved me from having to walk home or patch a tube at night in a poorly lit area. Now I make sure all our bikes run some kind of sealant
willydynamite1@reddit
I made it 5k miles without a flat just using FlatOut. Sometimes I'd stop after riding on a trail and I'd see it bubbling out of holes. It's well worth the increase in weight for most people.
hysys_whisperer@reddit
I run flat out, and while it makes a small mess, it gets me several miles to work or home without having g to change a tube on the side of the road.
Spiritual_Builder240@reddit
That stuff doesn’t even really make that big of a mess if you’re careful
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
FlatOut will outlast a tire in many cases. Any "mess" is far easier to deal with than changing multiple flats. Using a tube makes the mess smaller.
I-Like-MTB@reddit
Lots of people seem to love the tubes filled with slime, where as actual tubeless is the best
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
Tubeless isn't really best outside of mountain biking. The main benefit is running lower pressure without pinch flats. Most people have no need to run 15 psi. And are unlikely to get pinch flats riding on pavement and tame trails. Tubes filled with Slime (or FlatOut) makes perfect sense for most riders. Given your handle, I wonder if you assume everyone mountain bikes.
Fit_Papaya_8911@reddit
Lots of people don't have the money to throw away perfect tires and wheels and buy new gear just to go tubeless.
I-Like-MTB@reddit
Rim tape is dead cheap - valves is really the only thing (£20?)
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
I think he must ride on an indoor track with no thorns. His anti-sealant stance leading to weekly tube changes to avoid a "sticky mess" once every several years that can be wiped up in two minutes is bizarre.
TurboBunny116@reddit
Not a “hot take” - it’s just a product of people who put 5 minutes into “researching e-bikes” only to find that the going rate for a decent, low cost, reliable e-bike starts around $2k… which is more than they thought they would have to spend. So they go to Reddit and ask things like “is this good enough?” Or “is KSBDIEIRY a good brand?” because they need something to convince themselves that the cheaper $500-800 ebike will be just as good.
porkerparadise99@reddit
Probably not but I need something fast and to get me 10 mins down the road without needing a license Also live in American suburbia hell so getting anywhere is terrible I'd rather die on my e bike than end up as roadkill walking 🤣 I seen way more high quality bikes but unfortunately outta my price range ATM so I look at these $700-800 Amazon ones as a quick "beater"
o_Divine_o@reddit
Hub motors are trash, nit having full suspension is for morons that can't differentiate between needing full leg power and not requiring it.
If you're not going to have full suspension on an ebike, you're a fool.
Hub motors are also foolish. They're trash when compared to the mid drive.
Your response is gate keeping. Unless you are suggesting you'll float the bill beyond 800. Unless that's what you're saying, definitely shut up.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
Think you needed a sarcasm tag. There are some who say this with sincerity.
o_Divine_o@reddit
I do prefer absurdity in comments.
I am however against hub drive, having experience with both. Mostly because im in the appalachian mountains. fuck sake my hub 48v 20a controller with 30ah battery couldn't make it up half the roads around here without serious muscle power. Mid drive feels so nimble and can get up our steep inclines with far less battery drain and leg power.
These days I just go about on a 72v eride pro. Have a pedal kit but it doesn't work. I do enough manual labor daily just building things, riding is now just me relaxing.
anhphamfmr@reddit
you sounds like a dude that spent $8000 on his top spec'ed bike and gets angry when seeing people happy on their $500 bike
o_Divine_o@reddit
Nope 2k for my first ebike, sold for 700 after a few thousand miles. Now have a 4k eride pro s 2025.
I literally just replied to a ebike post of an elitist being a dick to people that buy $800 bikes on Amazon.
nathacof@reddit
Let me teach you about popular opinion....
atlasraven@reddit
Hah that would be an upgrade. My $450 ebay ebike works perfectly well. Do I recommend it? No but it fits my needs - light commuting and trails.
QuesoHusker@reddit
The Globe line from specialized is legal, well built, and reasonably priced.
MonzellRS@reddit
I’d love to buy an expensive ebike, I’d rather not worry about it getting stolen. If my current ebike Lectric Xpeak was stolen it would suck, but I’d easily buy another.
Ok-Ganache1023@reddit
After some research and test rides i raided my emergency fund for $5000 to buy a new old stock Riese & Muller. Yolo
BassesNBikes@reddit
There's been a concerted effort in my country over the last decade or so to glorify consulting one's bones, gut, or, at best, amygdala over taking advice from people with real expertise. So 1500W is 'better' than 250W, 4" tires are 2x as good as 2" tires, and a bike with 1500W, 4" tires, full "suspension" and a suspension seat post is the best.
lee1026@reddit
And they are not wrong. A 250w e-bike built around a fully rigid frame will be a very limited machine, no matter what brand is on it.
Physics is physics. If you want to achieve class 3 speeds, you need motor power, and suspensions, even a bad one, are better than not having one in terms of keeping your wheel on the ground and providing control. You pay a price in energy efficiency, but you can make up for that with motor power.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
No, some suspensions are worse than not having one at all. The Amazon specials that treat suspension as a checklist item add weight and in some cases compromise control at the same time. In addition to adding a point of failure and extra maintenance.
BassesNBikes@reddit
QED
Voxicles@reddit
An $800 Amazon e-bike is what got me into this hobby. I didn’t put thousands of miles on it, but it got me through a summer with minimal issues behind fixing flats. Now my uber brother is enjoying it years later while I’ve moved onto more “proper” e-bikes. I’m an old(er) man, I didn’t want to drop $4500 out the gate and end up not enjoying it (ADHD is a bitch).
There’s nothing really wrong with cheap bikes as long as you have a little common sense. I knew my Amazon bike wasn’t going to be great, and it exceeded my expectations.
sluggo4511@reddit
As an e-bike since 2019, I’d tell people just starting to consider a used bike from an established maker over a similarly priced Amazon find. In my market you can buy a 2019-2020 RAD City commuter with a deceit battery for about $550,
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
I hope you aren't telling friends or colleagues to buy a Rad.
arkw@reddit
Like many things in life, you get what you pay for. There are always exceptions but one person's experience does not validate or invalidate another's experience which is The worst part.
I bought a cheap ebike because I wanted to work on it. And I have a regular carbon gravel bike I can use.
If an ebike is the main transportation, critical to life, then it needs to be an investment and not a toy.
ziphyr_@reddit
It’s because everyone thinks they’re an electrician or mechanic until something actually breaks and they can’t find the support they need to fix it.
that’s one of the reasons why they’re cheap: lack of support.
Hungry_Freaks_Daddy@reddit
Me reading this after buying a two pack of e-bikes on Amazon for $1150
BassesNBikes@reddit
"for Adults!"
Repulsive_Aside_4122@reddit
Convert my own and build to order.
Ohm_Slaw_@reddit
It's a rough crowd. Reminds me a Jimmy Carr show sometimes.