On Line E-Bike Reviews Are A Joke!
I have resisted this post for some time. I know some of these guys really do have, or had, their heart in the right place. Unfortunately they’ve allowed their platforms to be compromised. It doesn’t help that not one, that I know of, was an actual cyclist before they got in to e-bikes. Cyclists or not, they don’t know bikes!
Today I read a glowing article on a NINETY pound, dual (spring) suspension, fat bike! It has a 90’s era cadence sensor, seven speed freewheel (not cassette) and very low end deraileur for nearly $2800!
It is not that these aren’t fun or even reliable. A strong or skilled cyclist could get by. It’s just that we aren’t paying, “get by” prices. Too many find these junk bikes hard to handle. Reviewers aren’t helping matters.
Another reviewer talked up a heavy upright (delta) trike with the same sort of outdated technology that was hundreds of dollars higher than a more sophisticated competitor. Both were heavier, less powerful and more expensive than The Buzz trike. Both reviewers have seen, but didn’t reference, The Buzz. Doesn’t that sound suspicious?
I get it. How are these guys going to get bikes to review if everything isn’t the best this or the best that they have ever seen? Of course, reviewers include disclaimers. They “might” get financial consideration if you click on a link or some other sort of deal. In The 50’s, when DJ’s were getting paid to play and talk up certain artists, it was a scandal. We need to be suspicious.
I sell conversions, but I assemble and repair everything. Bikes like those referenced above are a bear to work on. It is nearly as hard to get their outrageously inflated parts. Enjoy reviews. Learn what you can, but let me know what you are considering. I’ll give you alternatives to consider. Do not count on reviews being honest when deciding what e-bike to purchase.