This happens when the permanent magnets lining the outside of the hub motor repel the electromagnet stators when the system is not operating under power (this is demonstrated in the video review above).

One downside that most gearless direct drive motors suffer from, including the Dash, is cogging. The power cable that connects the motor to the control system has its own little quick release point just below the left chain stay. One highlight here is that both the front and rear wheels feature quick release which makes changing flats and servicing rims and spokes much easier. I’m a bit torn on this because I realize regenerative braking systems add complexity and expense without much improvement in range but they do limit hand fatigue and wear on brake pads, especially when coasting down large hills. It’s powerful, fast and extremely quiet to operate but doesn’t offer regeneration modes as some other models do. The narrower tires and large 700c (~28.5″) wheels offer excellent efficiency but a bit less comfort than the IZIP Zuma Cruiser while beating it in terms of utility with its fenders and rear rack setup.ĭriving this electric bike is a powerful 500 watt gearless direct drive hub motor located in the rear wheel. This is especially true if you add panniers on the back to hide the battery. It’s an ebike that performs best on paved streets and sidewalks in city and neighborhood environments and really blends in as a traditional bicycle. Those improvements include a sturdier display panel, sleeker control pad that’s easier to reach, more comfortable handlebars that still sweep back but aren’t as wide as before and an improved extra-wide saddle.

These benefits remain true with the updated second generation version for 2015 shown in this review and it improves on the original in several key ways. It also offered a solid warranty with industry leading support from Currie Technologies that has one of the largest networks of dealers in the US. The bike was relatively comfortable and efficient to ride with fenders, cruise control and a rear carry rack that had built in bungee cords for securing cargo. The second generation E3 Path+ launched in 2014 and was well received because it offered a larger motor and improved frame design over the original 2013 version. So below are a few that I am considering (In $ ascending order).The most recent version of the IZIP E3 Path+ came out in 2016 and features a mid-drive motor from Shimano STePs instead of a gearless direct drive hub, this makes the frame more balanced front to rear and offers better efficiency and range by leveraging the cassette, the price also dropped. The rack will be mounting on the hitch of a 2015 Ford Edge Limited AWD. The Protour is about 50lbs and the girlfriends mountain bike is like 35lbs or so. In my head, they just seem to be much more sturdy? I am looking for a rack that will carry two bikes. I have been looking at racks, and I am analyzing myself in circles! I don't have a ton of money to spend for a rack that will get used rarely.įor some reason, I am leaning heavily towards a tray style rack. So I am getting ready to go down the shore for vacation and want to bring it with me. Not to mention the bike is fast!!! Even though motor cuts out at 28mph, I regularly get it over 30mph! It just feels more powerful and reminds me of driving a car with a stick. I am so happy that I went with a mid-drive over hub as well. The bike has a very substantial feel compared to some of the others that I test rode. So a couple of months ago, after a ton of research, I bought the new Izip Protour ebike and absolutely love it! I really could not be happier with this bike! I have been riding it all over town, some days exercising for 30+ miles, and others commuting to work 5 miles each way.

Izip protour