The Roadster V2 from San Diego-based, Ride1Up, is a Class 3, lightweight electric bike with a carbon belt drive and 700C-sized tires. Its sleek design, impressive performance, and unbeatable value have made it a standout choice in the crowded e-bike market.
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Design and Aesthetics
One of the most striking features of the Roadster V2 is its minimalist and urban-inspired design. The aluminum alloy frame is a lot skinnier than most electric bike frames, giving it a sleek and streamlined appearance that resembles a traditional road bike. E-bikes tend to be significantly thicker than standard road bikes, so the Roadster V2’s slim profile is a refreshing departure from the norm.
The integrated battery is seamlessly incorporated into the frame, further enhancing the bike’s clean and uncluttered look. This design choice not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also provides an extra layer of security, as the battery cannot be easily removed or stolen when the bike is parked.
Performance and Ride Quality
Despite its lightweight and minimalist design, the Roadster V2 packs a powerful punch. Equipped with a 350W nominal (500W peak) Shengyi geared hub motor and a 36V 7.0Ah Samsung battery, this e-bike delivers a relaxing, yet capable, riding experience.
The Roadster V2 shines when it comes to tackling small-to-moderate hills, and even moved me up a 20-degree incline at a steady 8mph top speed (in PAS 5, of course).
One notable feature is the cadence sensor in the bottom bracket, which requires the cranks to be turning before activating the motor. This can make starting from a standstill on a hill a bit challenging (a minor trade-off for the overall performance and efficiency of the system).
How big are the tires?
The Ride1Up Roadster V2 comes standard with 700x28c Kenda Kwick Roller Sport tires, which are decent road tires but not ideal for gravel or off-road use. I found them to be okay for minor trail use and great for concrete, asphalt, and even grass and packed dirt.
Braking (rim brakes?)
The Ride1Up Roadster V2 comes with Tektro dual-pivot rim brakes, which provide great stopping power. Even when I had this bike up to 30+ mph (on a local steep downhill, of course), I felt confident in the braking ability.
The rim brakes were likely chosen for their clean aesthetic and cost savings over disc brakes. However, I’ve heard other reviewers opting for the Gravel Edition, which comes with Tektro mechanical disc brakes for improved braking performance, especially in wet conditions.
Slim, Easy-to-Read LCD
The Ride1Up Roadster V2 comes equipped with a basic LCD. This display provides essential information such as battery level, pedal assist level (1-5), and basic trip data like odometer, trip distance, and trip time.
The display may be hard to read in direct sunlight, or when wearing polarized sunglasses, but I did find it easy to read in the shade (see image) and in all other instances. Overall, the stock LCD on the Roadster V2 gets the job done but may leave more tech-savvy riders wanting more features and better visibility.
Value
Sometimes priced as low as $895, the Ride1Up Roadster V2 offers exceptional value for its features and performance.
Design and Build Quality
Frame material and design
The Ride1Up Roadster V2 features a 6061 aluminum frame, which is known for its durability and lightweight properties. This material choice ensures that the bike remains robust while keeping the overall weight down. The frame design is sleek and minimalist, aligning with the bike’s single-speed, city-friendly ethos. The 1-⅛ aluminum fork complements the frame, providing a sturdy yet responsive front end.
Weight and dimensions
The Ride1Up Roadster V2 is notably lightweight for an electric bike, tipping the scales at just 33 pounds! This makes it easier to handle, carry, and maneuver than many other e-bikes, which often weigh considerably more. The frame’s dimensions are designed to be compact yet comfortable, with a sturdy yet responsive ride.
Color options
The bike comes in three colors: Matte Black, Silver, and Gravel Gray. Each color option enhances the sleek and minimalist design of the Roadster V2, allowing riders to choose a style that best suits their taste. The Matte Black offers a classic and stealthy look, while the Silver provides a more polished and modern appearance. The Gravel Gray strikes a balance between subtlety and sophistication, making it a versatile choice for urban commuters.
17 PROs of the Ride1Up Roadster V2
- Affordable price point, typically around $1,000
- Lightweight at only 32 lbs (14.5 kg)
- Stealthy and stylish design that doesn’t look like a typical e-bike
- Integrated battery and electronics for a clean look
- Low-maintenance Gates Carbon belt drive instead of a chain
- Capable of reaching speeds up to 24 mph (38 km/h)
- Decent range of 20-35 miles (32-56 km) on a single charge
- Available in multiple frame sizes and color options
- Easy to ride and operate with a single-speed drivetrain
- Comfortable saddle and ergonomic touch points
- Minimalist LCD display with useful information
- Powerful 500W peak (350W continuous) rear hub motor
- Responsive pedal assist system
- Holds battery charge well
- Suitable for urban commuting and flat/rolling terrain
- Quiet operation due to the belt drive and integrated components
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver in city traffic
7 CONS of the Ride1Up Roadster V2
- Non-removable battery, which can be inconvenient for charging and storage
- Rim brakes instead of disc brakes, which may not perform as well in wet conditions
- Limited range compared to some other e-bikes
- Narrow handlebar, which some riders may find less stable
- Single-speed drivetrain may struggle on steep hills
- LCD display can be difficult to read in direct sunlight
- No throttle option, only pedal assist
Ride1Up Roadster V2: An Urban E-Bike Delight