Nice review, as always. So refreshing to see a well-priced mid drive ebike. I own a mid drive and a rear hub and enjoy them both though they are very different. The mid drive bikes are so natural feeling and efficient. There is no comparison to the range available with my mid drive vs the rear hub. My mid drive is only 418wh vs 672 for the hub but I routinely go 70 miles on the mid drive before needing a recharge usually at 10-20% left. It just seems like it is time for a quality mid drive that is not 3-4k +. And I appreciate your increased productivity in posting these comprehensive reviews.
This company seems to have a knack for delivering good styling and good components for a competitive price. This model is no exception. Thanks as always for a great review!
We have been reviewing the Core5 and we have to do the same thing to mount the battery. I think the battery just fits so tight and flush that it requires that little extra oomph🙂. We got ours in Blue and it's stunning. Nice review man!👍You are definitely the gold standard of ebike reviews.
Cool, thanks for the confirmation about battery fit! I appreciate the feedback, and your compliment. I do my best, and appreciate all of the other great videos out there too. I'll keep an eye out for yours :D
Can you pop it back in easier if the key is removed or is there something stopping it? I thought it might be like some of the cheap number padlocks on the market that don't close when the combination is lined up, but honestly have no idea.
Thanks for posting a review of this bike! I’ve been curious about this set of mid-drive ebikes from Ride1up since they announced them. Your thorough and honest reviews are very helpful!
I’ve been waiting for a review like this for a while, you are the first. I’ve had the MTB version on order for a couple of months now and they just notified me they were processing the order for shipment. Great job as always. Glad to hear you like it, I was a little concerned ordering without seeing any review content out there. Thank you!
Good timing! I think you’ll enjoy the Prodigy XC. It’s the one I would choose for myself. Hope it holds up well for you, and please chime in with anything you learn once you’ve bad some time with the bike!!
Thanks for the review! Can't wait to ride this ebike. Ride1up has made a name for themselves in offering a ton of value w their ebikes and this is no exception! Also it's great to have a mid drive option around $2k!
Just received my Prodigy last weekend (looks just like the bike reviewed) and really looking forward to lots of fun rides! Beautiful, well appointed bike!
Unboxed it last weekend and it came damaged; I am taking it to a local shop tomorrow (Saturday)- per instruction by Ride1up, for a repair appraisal and they are already in contact with Ride1up. Hopefully it can be repaired or if not, be replaced in a timely manner. The fork tube is bent and the battery release is broke (shipped with battery installed on bike and it came loose, chipped the paint in a couple spots... 😞), & the pedal crank was also damaged in shipping... I am still hopeful for a quick and happy resolution.
@@miragea Found a fatal flaw in the bike, and after over a month, am still waiting for my refund. Sad but true. Upon assembly we found the front fork down tube was bent and there was other damage to the bike. The company offered to send parts, the sent the wrong color. I opted then to just return it. It has been 3 weeks weeks since they received the bike back, and yesterday I received an email that the return was finally processing, this, after repeated calls and emails to get updates.
I really want this bike. I have a LMT’d that took a while to get going right, but it’s outstanding. I think I’m going to buy the prodigy next year as I’m hoping to have a garage by then. Edit: Im dumb and didn’t watch long enough before commenting. I’d still rather have the XR equipment, but with the XC suspension Really wish this had an adjustable air fork tho :/
I agree the bike looks a bit uncomfortable... Seat, small frame for us big guys, handle bar grips are yuck. Also agree screen is way too small. No throttle is last shovel full imo Excellent review as always...
This bike by Ride 1Up, has to be one of the best values for those looking for mid-drive motor, class 3 urban bike. I wish that they offered this bike with a front shock.
@@dustinstout1798 To my best knowledge, just about everywhere in the US, Class 3 bikes are not allowed on off road public trails. I'm sure Ride 1Up understands that. For that reason, it would make sense to sell a Class 1 off road bike that does not violate off road public laws.
@@ilovephotography1254 It's still a class 3 bike by definition. But yes, it is prohibited from Class I multi-use bike paths unless specifically authorized by a local ordinance.
Excellent review, thank you, but you did not test its abilities, such as going up hills, attaining and maintaining the 28 mph top speed. I'd love to know.
It requires some effort, but I was able to hit 28mph solidly when riding in the highest level of assist. Also, I think the percentage output of Boost could be raised from 88% to 100% and that could make it even easier!
Very easy if you have your PAS 5 percentage set high enough. I was hitting 28 with some hard pedaling when I first got my Core 5. This was before I checked the PAS settings on the computer display. I discovered the PAS 5 was set at 70%. I changed it to 99%. The bike flies now. I can hit 28 with minimal effort.
Thanks for another great review! Did you happen to test the range on this bike? I’d love to know how far I could get on my hilly rides. And how would you say this bike compares to the Priority Current?
Hmm, tough decision there Paul. I think both are great bikes for the money. The Level has been around longer, so maybe it's more proven in that sense... but the Brose drive system is really good, I didn't see any major flaws in the Prodigy. Since I haven't seen the latest Level, perhaps I'm not comparing apples to apples... If it were me and there was an Aventon dealer who could build and service the bike, that would be a nice benefit and I'd probably visit and try it before making the decision.
I liked the Aventon Level too and Aventon bikes are sold in bike shops around metro areas so you can buy them and have services done somewhat locally, ect., but in the end I decided the Ride1up Prodigy was a better bike.
Thanks for the request! I actually requested to review that one last year, I like the light ebikes, but it sounds like they had limited inventory and weren't certain on the future of the design. I'll keep asking ;)
Hi! There are many to choose from. I hate to say this... but it "depends" on what type of bike you want, how much you want to save, and lots of other factors. I think Ride1Up has some of the best bikes for low pricing. That said, there's a bit more assembly for their other models. I like VoltBike, Rize, Aventon, Magnum (pricier but have shops to visit), and Rad is a clear leader but tend to cost a touch more because of their brand and delivery services etc.
Hi Don! Thanks for the request, I had been using captions for a while last year but the process is very time consuming and expensive. Yours is the first comment that I've seen requesting them. Can you please share a bit more information on why you find them valuable? I will consider adding them to this specific video if it's one you're particularly interested in and struggling with.
I like your vids but please don't refer to the regular vs the step through as this "his and her models." Many people look at them that way or often think that because they don't know. I've had people ask me why I have a girls bike. It's a shame the stigma even exists in the first place. The amount of people who don't get a bike or just choose the normal size frame and suffer. It's not about his or hers, it's about accessibility and ease of use.
I respectfully disagree. When transporting on my bike rack I would do so with the battery removed and wouldn't want a chance of moisture collecting in the bike battery mount.
No throttle..No thanks....Would be hard to beat with the Bafang mid drive 1000 watt with throttle...It's a nice bike, but could easily be better, why no throttle is beyond me, don't understand that at all, someone buying an expensive electric bike, doesn't always want to peddle, isn't that the best thing about ebikes, usually...
For some people, a throttle is the best thing. I didn't want a throttle because I want to get the exercise from pedaling. If I am tired, I just go for a higher assist level. If I had a throttle, I would use it more than I would like to get the exercise.
The biggest argument against throttles is that they blur the line on classes. A Class 3 ebike with a throttle might not technically be legal in some areas. A 20mph ebike with a throttle becomes Class 2 and might not be allowable on all trails (which is why most European companies do not have them and seem to lobby for the Class system which seems to invalidate throttles altogether). I often feel like "why not have a throttle, I can always choose to not use it" but it does add some electronic complexity, handlebar clutter, and introduce motor and drivetrain challenges around torque. It's a nuanced topic and I'm not sure there is on "right" way, so I'm grateful to have many different bikes being built out there... some with Bafang illegally powerful motors WITH throttles... and some that follow the Class system and reduce rider liability potential or enhance the exercise factor by completely removing the throttle option :P
I actually took the throttle of my ebike. Its just not necessary and I never used it. Ride 1 Up give you a ton of bike for the money. The only bike that comes close is Aventon. They also pack their bike with quality parts and keep they bikes under 2K
I don"t think you can get a Brose mid drive with a throttle. Furthermore, that is the whole point of these bikes. They are very intuitive, the torque sensor acts faster than the cadence and you will start as fast with this system as a bike with a throttle and cadence system.
NOT for me. I appreciate and love the features and components on my New awesome EVELO DELTA X. Throttle, LARGER Centerd display, CVT, Suspension, charging and charger and oh so much more.
Yeah, I really like that model... I'm sure it has only gotten better since I covered it several years ago. They basically maxed out everything except full suspension and it was a blast electricbikereview.com/evelo/delta-x/
@@blasstd327 I'm very impressed with EVELO. They have the E-Bike industry BEST Warranty, F4ur Years, 20,000 Miles p,us an Awesome Customer Service. Super quick 48 Hour Real response conversing with Real people.
Nice review, as always. So refreshing to see a well-priced mid drive ebike. I own a mid drive and a rear hub and enjoy them both though they are very different. The mid drive bikes are so natural feeling and efficient. There is no comparison to the range available with my mid drive vs the rear hub. My mid drive is only 418wh vs 672 for the hub but I routinely go 70 miles on the mid drive before needing a recharge usually at 10-20% left. It just seems like it is time for a quality mid drive that is not 3-4k +. And I appreciate your increased productivity in posting these comprehensive reviews.
Thanks! I'm doing my best. I like what you wrote and agree that mid-drives can feel so natural and be more efficient for better range :)
This bike seems like an awesome value. Honestly, the weight isn’t bad at all.
This company seems to have a knack for delivering good styling and good components for a competitive price. This model is no exception. Thanks as always for a great review!
But they also have a tendency to only make products for riders 5’6 and above which cuts off a lot of shorter riders
We have been reviewing the Core5 and we have to do the same thing to mount the battery. I think the battery just fits so tight and flush that it requires that little extra oomph🙂. We got ours in Blue and it's stunning.
Nice review man!👍You are definitely the gold standard of ebike reviews.
Cool, thanks for the confirmation about battery fit! I appreciate the feedback, and your compliment. I do my best, and appreciate all of the other great videos out there too. I'll keep an eye out for yours :D
Can you pop it back in easier if the key is removed or is there something stopping it? I thought it might be like some of the cheap number padlocks on the market that don't close when the combination is lined up, but honestly have no idea.
Thanks for posting a review of this bike! I’ve been curious about this set of mid-drive ebikes from Ride1up since they announced them. Your thorough and honest reviews are very helpful!
You're welcome! Glad to hear that you enjoyed it :D
I’ve been waiting for a review like this for a while, you are the first. I’ve had the MTB version on order for a couple of months now and they just notified me they were processing the order for shipment.
Great job as always. Glad to hear you like it, I was a little concerned ordering without seeing any review content out there.
Thank you!
Good timing! I think you’ll enjoy the Prodigy XC. It’s the one I would choose for myself. Hope it holds up well for you, and please chime in with anything you learn once you’ve bad some time with the bike!!
How has the prodigy XC been for you so far? It’s so hard to find reviews for how that bike does as an all rounder. I’m really interested.
Thanks for the review! Can't wait to ride this ebike. Ride1up has made a name for themselves in offering a ton of value w their ebikes and this is no exception! Also it's great to have a mid drive option around $2k!
Another wonderful review from my most favorite ebike reviewer. I appreciate all that you do Court. It does not go un-noticed. Have a great day.
You made my day with that comment, thanks so much for the encouragement. Hope you have an awesome weekend!!
Just received my Prodigy last weekend (looks just like the bike reviewed) and really looking forward to lots of fun rides! Beautiful, well appointed bike!
Unboxed it last weekend and it came damaged; I am taking it to a local shop tomorrow (Saturday)- per instruction by Ride1up, for a repair appraisal and they are already in contact with Ride1up. Hopefully it can be repaired or if not, be replaced in a timely manner. The fork tube is bent and the battery release is broke (shipped with battery installed on bike and it came loose, chipped the paint in a couple spots... 😞), & the pedal crank was also damaged in shipping... I am still hopeful for a quick and happy resolution.
@@shelisasimmonds817 how did it go?
@@miragea Found a fatal flaw in the bike, and after over a month, am still waiting for my refund. Sad but true. Upon assembly we found the front fork down tube was bent and there was other damage to the bike. The company offered to send parts, the sent the wrong color. I opted then to just return it. It has been 3 weeks weeks since they received the bike back, and yesterday I received an email that the return was finally processing, this, after repeated calls and emails to get updates.
I like this company. I purchased a Core 5 model . Good quality and unbeatable price.
Nice! Thanks for the testimonial David. I hope it continues to work well for you :D
Thanks for a great review. My Prodigy XC should arrive next week!
Good choice, that’s the one I’d probably go for too. Pretty neat to see a cross country model with such a high end mid drive that is also a Class 3 :D
I have the roadster v2 and it has been absolutely fantastic, their products just seem to make sense
One of the best bike review I have seen on RUclips. Extremely useful, thank you.
I really want this bike. I have a LMT’d that took a while to get going right, but it’s outstanding.
I think I’m going to buy the prodigy next year as I’m hoping to have a garage by then.
Edit: Im dumb and didn’t watch long enough before commenting. I’d still rather have the XR equipment, but with the XC suspension
Really wish this had an adjustable air fork tho :/
excellent review, as always. Please, review the XC as well as it is very different.
Cort - phenomenal detailed review as usual! I really like this one.
BY FAR THE BEST E BIKE REVIEWER! THE REAL OG! WE LOVE YOU BACK!
I agree the bike looks a bit uncomfortable... Seat, small frame for us big guys, handle bar grips are yuck. Also agree screen is way too small. No throttle is last shovel full imo
Excellent review as always...
I truly enjoyed this review. Personally, I think I would pay $150-200 more for a bit more battery capacity.
This bike by Ride 1Up, has to be one of the best values for those looking for mid-drive motor, class 3 urban bike. I wish that they offered this bike with a front shock.
I think they do, the Prodigy XC version has suspension.
@@ElysianFields108 From what I understand, that would be a offload bike, therefore most likely a class 1.
@@ilovephotography1254 i don't think that has anything to do with the classification. pedal assist only with a max speed of 28 mph is class 3.
@@dustinstout1798 To my best knowledge, just about everywhere in the US, Class 3 bikes are not allowed on off road public trails. I'm sure Ride 1Up understands that. For that reason, it would make sense to sell a Class 1 off road bike that does not violate off road public laws.
@@ilovephotography1254 It's still a class 3 bike by definition. But yes, it is prohibited from Class I multi-use bike paths unless specifically authorized by a local ordinance.
Excellent review, thank you, but you did not test its abilities, such as going up hills, attaining and maintaining the 28 mph top speed. I'd love to know.
Awesome review! NIce bike! Thanks for sharing! Have a great day!
Can you remove the rear rack without removing the splash guards?? As cool as the rear rack is I think it’ll look better without it
Why can they try to install throttle in a med motor. Thanks.
Thank you for the battery info. I have the same issue with inserting the battery back in. Seems crazy to have to almost slam it..
Nice job as always Court. Can you get to 28mph easy, or do you really have to push hard to hit that speed like the Ride1Up 700?
It requires some effort, but I was able to hit 28mph solidly when riding in the highest level of assist. Also, I think the percentage output of Boost could be raised from 88% to 100% and that could make it even easier!
Very easy if you have your PAS 5 percentage set high enough. I was hitting 28 with some hard pedaling when I first got my Core 5. This was before I checked the PAS settings on the computer display. I discovered the PAS 5 was set at 70%. I changed it to 99%. The bike flies now. I can hit 28 with minimal effort.
@@bridawg24 its not easy as the first generation of 700's cannot set the PAS
Do you think the fact that it’s 36 V versus 48 V matters?
Thanks for another great review! Did you happen to test the range on this bike? I’d love to know how far I could get on my hilly rides. And how would you say this bike compares to the Priority Current?
Love your videos! I'm thinking of purchasing the Ride1up Cafe Cruiser. It would be great to hear your thoughts.
I like this bike. But what about the cantilever approach the the rear rack. Isn't that likely to eventually break under heavy use?
Trying to decide between this bike and Aventons Level. forma 2nd ebike that is a class 3. Tough decesion Court, tips welcome
Hmm, tough decision there Paul. I think both are great bikes for the money. The Level has been around longer, so maybe it's more proven in that sense... but the Brose drive system is really good, I didn't see any major flaws in the Prodigy. Since I haven't seen the latest Level, perhaps I'm not comparing apples to apples... If it were me and there was an Aventon dealer who could build and service the bike, that would be a nice benefit and I'd probably visit and try it before making the decision.
I liked the Aventon Level too and Aventon bikes are sold in bike shops around metro areas so you can buy them and have services done somewhat locally, ect., but in the end I decided the Ride1up Prodigy was a better bike.
When will you do a good review on the Ride1Up Prodigy V2 ?
I live in the UK and this company don’t ship to Europe. Also, Please review the Bird range of bikes.
How tall are you? Trying to gauge the stand over height for someone with a 30" inseam
Hi Kilkees, I'm 5'9" and weigh about 135lbs. Hope that helps! I have roughly 30.5" inseam ;)
How do those slicks hold up in the rain and, can you pull a trailer with it?
if you just turn the pedals with no torque....will the motor work to propel you?
Can I upgrade to front suspension or is the option is not available? Also, will the suspension on the XC work on the XR?
There's no place for the bottom hook on the rack for panniers. smh on that one.
How does this compare to cowboy 4? Aside from the price and gears?
how tall is the fella reviewing this bike? im 6'1" with a 33" inseam.... considering this model but i'm unsure if ill fit or not.
I'm unsure if this is a fair analogy but I can get a 168cc scooter for $2.1k after shipping and handling
Do you plan on reviewing the xc?
what kind of range do you get with this bike?
It's a shame they don't deliver to Europe. Is there an European equivalent to this high spec but affordable mid-drive bike ?
Review the Roadsters please.
Thanks for the request! I actually requested to review that one last year, I like the light ebikes, but it sounds like they had limited inventory and weren't certain on the future of the design. I'll keep asking ;)
6 miles range on the boost setting!?? 😢
whats the best e bike for 2k or less?
Hi! There are many to choose from. I hate to say this... but it "depends" on what type of bike you want, how much you want to save, and lots of other factors. I think Ride1Up has some of the best bikes for low pricing. That said, there's a bit more assembly for their other models. I like VoltBike, Rize, Aventon, Magnum (pricier but have shops to visit), and Rad is a clear leader but tend to cost a touch more because of their brand and delivery services etc.
Does this have a cadence sensor or a torque sensor ?
Torque
Just noticed the XC has front suspension fork.
Niceee
Nice bike but over my budget
Pun intended... heh heh heh noice.
Please add captions EBR
Hi Don! Thanks for the request, I had been using captions for a while last year but the process is very time consuming and expensive. Yours is the first comment that I've seen requesting them. Can you please share a bit more information on why you find them valuable? I will consider adding them to this specific video if it's one you're particularly interested in and struggling with.
I like your vids but please don't refer to the regular vs the step through as this "his and her models." Many people look at them that way or often think that because they don't know. I've had people ask me why I have a girls bike. It's a shame the stigma even exists in the first place. The amount of people who don't get a bike or just choose the normal size frame and suffer. It's not about his or hers, it's about accessibility and ease of use.
thats a really nice looking bike with all decent components..my gripe though..the brand name logo looks..*barf*
Lol, I was so impressed that it is actual metal vs. plastic XD
would you prefer
"babymaker" on your bike?
I like the branding. It's small and unnoticeable. Unlike that weird looking Lectric XP with the big bold lettering.
poo c magnet
Ride1up should have put that battery at the top of the frame instead of underneath.
I respectfully disagree. When transporting on my bike rack I would do so with the battery removed and wouldn't want a chance of moisture collecting in the bike battery mount.
that would be ugly!
No throttle..No thanks....Would be hard to beat with the Bafang mid drive 1000 watt with throttle...It's a nice bike, but could easily be better, why no throttle is beyond me, don't understand that at all, someone buying an expensive electric bike, doesn't always want to peddle, isn't that the best thing about ebikes, usually...
For some people, a throttle is the best thing. I didn't want a throttle because I want to get the exercise from pedaling.
If I am tired, I just go for a higher assist level. If I had a throttle, I would use it more than I would like to get the exercise.
The biggest argument against throttles is that they blur the line on classes. A Class 3 ebike with a throttle might not technically be legal in some areas. A 20mph ebike with a throttle becomes Class 2 and might not be allowable on all trails (which is why most European companies do not have them and seem to lobby for the Class system which seems to invalidate throttles altogether). I often feel like "why not have a throttle, I can always choose to not use it" but it does add some electronic complexity, handlebar clutter, and introduce motor and drivetrain challenges around torque. It's a nuanced topic and I'm not sure there is on "right" way, so I'm grateful to have many different bikes being built out there... some with Bafang illegally powerful motors WITH throttles... and some that follow the Class system and reduce rider liability potential or enhance the exercise factor by completely removing the throttle option :P
I actually took the throttle of my ebike. Its just not necessary and I never used it. Ride 1 Up give you a ton of bike for the money. The only bike that comes close is Aventon. They also pack their bike with quality parts and keep they bikes under 2K
@@martinschwartz7342 you can easily remove the throttle.
I don"t think you can get a Brose mid drive with a throttle. Furthermore, that is the whole point of these bikes. They are very intuitive, the torque sensor acts faster than the cadence and you will start as fast with this system as a bike with a throttle and cadence system.
NOT for me. I appreciate and love the features and components on my New awesome EVELO DELTA X. Throttle, LARGER Centerd display, CVT, Suspension, charging and charger and oh so much more.
Yeah, I really like that model... I'm sure it has only gotten better since I covered it several years ago. They basically maxed out everything except full suspension and it was a blast electricbikereview.com/evelo/delta-x/
and a whole lot more on the $$. Nice bike however.
@@blasstd327 I'm very impressed with EVELO. They have the E-Bike industry BEST Warranty, F4ur Years, 20,000 Miles p,us an Awesome Customer Service. Super quick 48 Hour Real response conversing with Real people.
@@f1rstclass366 Ride1up also has real people, live support, as fast if not faster response.
wait, a $2k bike and no throttle? hard pass
I think that’s generally the trade off with mid drive (with a few exceptions)