Some people prefer starting with details and specs, but I can’t help but mention how cool the updated E-Lux Sierra Sport looks. The first time I set eyes on this fat-tire, electric, folding e-bike, I knew it was going to be a lot of fun! It’s almost identical to the previous E-Lux Sierra, but there are a few key new features. The updated Bafang 20″ mag wheels, give the Sport model a cool, edgy look. They’re painted matte black with exposed aluminum accents that accentuate the spokes.
The other main difference between the E-Lux siblings is the front Monzo suspension fork! Just when you thought 20″ x 4″ fat-tires were comfortable enough, E-Lux went and added even more compliance to the front-end of the bike. Way to make a smooth ride feel even better! And lastly, an integrated rear light that’s powered by the main battery. Could they have added a front light too? Sure. But that leaves room for you to choose other options.
But is the E-Lux Sierra a portable e-bike?
The Sierra Sport folds in seconds, fits in the back of most cars, on a train, an elevator, or even an office. It’s only 40″ long, 24″ wide, and 29″ high when folded. Its total weight is about 65 pounds (a little less on the Sierra) but can carry over 300 pounds in total weight, including the rider. A rear rack comes standard on both Sierra models which adds to its portable nature. The rack is rated for 55 pounds max, so you may not want to have someone sitting back there.
The perfect fat-tire bike for sand (and commuting)
Since the E-Lux Sierra and Sierra Sport both come with big 4″ tires, you can run them efficiently at varying PSI’s from 5PSI – 30PSI. On my commute from Venice to Culver City, putting 30PSI in the Kenda Crusade Sport tires felt smooth with very surprisingly little rolling resistance. The suspension absorbed most of the road chatter and any rocks I accidentally rode over. After heading back down to the beach, I dropped the PSI down between 5 and 10, so I could take it across the sand and enjoy an afternoon on the beach. With the optional front rack, it’s the perfect bike for a beach picnic.
500W electric speed boost
Powering this folding e-bike is a 48V 11ah battery strapped onto a 500W Bafang Brushless Geared Hub motor. 80Nm of torque will help you up any inclines you should find, like the California Incline in Santa Monica. Plus, from a dead stop, that powerful motor is what will get you up to speed quickly. There are five levels of pedal assist and three power modes. Full, normal, and eco. As far as the top speed, I never saw it go over 22mph with the throttle, but a little extra push on the pedals that drive the seven-speed Shimano cassette, and you can give yourself a slight speed boost. Fortunately, 180mm disc brake rotors will bring you to a stop very quickly! Both levers have motor cut off switches, which brings added safety to braking. When a manufacturer only puts one cut off on an electric bike, you risk not being able to disengage the motor if your hand is on the opposite lever while you’re braking.
Rugged build for a rugged e-bike
Initially, I was a bit worried about the durability of the folding joint, but even that feels sturdy. It’s reassuring considering that’s the last thing that you would want to fail while you’re out riding. Speaking of the folding joint, when you open the latch, you’ll find the battery hidden inside of the front portion of the bike. It has a quoted 25+ miles of range, and when that’s out, a 5-6 hour charge time. I found the screen to be in a good position on the left side of the handlebars. It has all the main features like speed, battery life, assist level, etc. The main thing to take note of though is the odometer. It’s the best way to see how many miles you’ve gone and ultimately, how many of those miles you didn’t spend sitting in a car! It’s healthy and protects your wallet!
Which bike is for me?
When it’s time to bring the RV out, or maybe head for a weekend vacation up to Big Bear, the E-Lux Sierra Sport is the perfect bike for the varying terrain. It’ll eat up any kind of gravel you throw at it and hang with the other bikes on paved cycle lanes. When the sun is out, and the sandy beach is calling, you know where you’ll find me now! It truly is a do-it-all, go-anywhere kind of bike. E-Lux has built a fun, robust, and highly capable folding e-bike. With six different colors to choose from, I’m sure you’ll find the one that suits you best. At the time of writing this, the E-Lux Sierra’s price is $1725, and the Sierra Sport is $1999. Not bad for such versatile and rugged electric bikes.
Pros
- It’s an enjoyable ride whether you’re on dirt or pavement
- The ability to remove the battery makes transport much easier
- The front suspension on the Sport model is well worth the upgrade
- Color-matched fenders are quite pleasing to look at
- USB charger right underneath the display panel is convenient if you have a phone or other device mounted on the handlebars
Cons
- It’s a little heavy for a folding bike, but the features make up for it
- An integrated front light would be an excellent addition, but it doesn’t come standard
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For more information and detailed specs on the E-Lux Sierra and Sierra Sport or their other range of e-bikes, you can head over to the links below:
https://bikeshopcalifornia.com/product/e-lux-sierra-sport-electric-folding-e-bike/
https://bikeshopcalifornia.com/product/e-lux-sierra-electric-folding-e-bike/
Give us a call at (310) 838-9644 or come on by the shop to set up a test ride.
If you’re looking for an electric bike shop online, then head to our webshop here Bike Shop California https://bikeshopcalifornia.com/shop/
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Author: Mitchell Dick, LiveTravelCycle.com
