If you’re searching for an affordable, stylish, and efficient e-bike for urban commuting, the Ride1Up Roadster V2 might just be your perfect match. Reigning rom San Diego-based, Ride1Up, the V2 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. This review will delve into its features, performance, and overall value, helping you decide if this bike is the right choice for your daily needs.
Key Features of the Ride1Up Roadster V2
The first thing you’ll notice about the Roadster V2 is its sleek and modern design. Weighing in at just 33 pounds, this lightweight aluminum frame makes it easy to navigate through city traffic and carry up stairs or onto public transport. Its minimalist aesthetic ensures that it stands out without being overly flashy.
Powerful Motor and Battery
Equipped with a 350W geared hub motor, the Roadster V2 provides ample power to tackle urban hills and accelerate quickly. It can reach speeds of up to 24 mph with pedal assist, making it a great option for those who need to get to work quickly. The 36V 10Ah battery offers a range of approximately 20-40 miles, depending on your riding style and terrain.
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).
Smooth Carbon Belt Drive System
One of the standout features of the Roadster V2 is its Gates carbon belt drive system, which is not only silent but also requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional chain systems. This means you can enjoy a smooth ride without the hassle of frequent upkeep.
User-Friendly 2″ LCD
The bike includes a simple LCD on the left handlegrip that provides essential information such as speed, battery level, and pedal assist settings. With five levels of pedal assist available, you can easily adjust the support based on your riding conditions.
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.
Performance on the Road
Riding Experience
Riding the Ride1Up Roadster V2 feels almost like riding a traditional bike due to its single-speed setup. While this may limit its performance on steep hills, it’s perfectly suited for flat urban environments where speed and agility are key. The bike’s lightweight nature allows for quick acceleration, making it ideal for navigating busy streets.
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).
Braking System
The Roadster V2 is equipped with front and rear caliper brakes that provide reliable stopping power in various weather conditions. However, some riders may find that they require a bit more anticipation when braking at higher speeds.
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.
Kenda Kwest 700Cx28 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.
Who Should Buy the Ride1Up Roadster V2?
The Ride1Up Roadster V2 is perfect for urban commuters looking for an efficient and stylish e-bike without breaking the bank. It’s especially suitable for those who primarily ride on flat terrain and appreciate a low-maintenance bike that still offers a fun riding experience.
17 PROs of the Ride1Up Roadster V2
- Affordable price point, typically around ~$1,200
- Lightweight at only 32 lbs (~14 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 handlebars, 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
Conclusion: Is It Worth It?
In summary, the Ride1Up Roadster V2 stands out as an excellent choice for anyone seeking an affordable yet high-quality e-bike for city commuting. Its combination of lightweight design, powerful motor, and low maintenance requirements make it a compelling option in today’s market. If you’re ready to elevate your commuting experience with an e-bike that delivers both style and performance, consider investing in the Ride1Up Roadster V2. Click here to check out this fantastic e-bike and see how it can transform your daily rides!
Ride1Up Roadster V2 Review: The Ultimate Urban E-Bike for Commuters