Each speed increase between PAS levels was at least 3.5 mph (from PAS 1 to PAS 2), and not more than 3.9 mph (from Eco mode to PAS 1). If you’ve seen a lot of e-bikes like us, then you might be scratching your head when looking at this bike’s PAS set up, going from Eco to PAS 1, 2, and 3, and then topping off at “S mode” (with “S” standing for “Sport”). Perhaps this is meant to remind us how different this bike is.
The 52-volt system and 1000-watt motor play a big role in the PAS power output that helped this 80 lbs fat tire bike accelerate so quickly, especially when compared to the 48V, 750W motors we so often see. We like seeing this kind of consistency because it shows a careful and measured motor tuning. We also like its predictability because you always want to know what kind of power you’re going to get – it makes for a better ride and it’s safer for you and everyone else you’re riding around.
Having nine gears to choose from also helps the bike produce consistent top speeds in each PAS level. As far as 9-speeds are concerned, the range from the 11T top gear cog to the 34T bottom gear isn’t that broad (I’m used to seeing more than 40T on the bottom two gears on a 9-speed cassette), but their closeness makes shifting easier because the chain faces less resistance when changing gears.
In our second Speed Test, the Throttle Speed Test, we clock how long it takes to go from 0 mph to 20 mph, using the throttle and no pedaling. This tells us what kind of raw power the motor alone produces. The RipCurrent S went from zero to 20 mph in 11.6 seconds, which was okay. What impressed us more is this bike reached 15 mph in only 6.35 seconds. Since this is a new test here at the EBR, we don’t have a lot of results to compare to, but I know from experience that traveling from 0 mph to 15 mph in under 7 seconds is quite quick.
The L-TWOO gearing set up, including its shifter and derailleur, are among the parts we don’t see as often, but the performance proved to be decent. Their A5 9-speed derailleur and trigger shifter delivered really crisp, clean shifts to each gear – something I wish I could say about the other 9-speeds I’ve tested on other bikes in this price point. Over time, we will see how well this product holds up with regular riding wear and tear – but so far so good in our experience.
