Trek Verve+ 2 Specifications:
- Motor: Bosch Active Line 250W mid-drive
- Battery: Integrated 400Wh downtube battery
- Max Speed: Class 1 (20 mph)
- Range: Up to 37 miles per charge
- Frame: Alpha Gold aluminum
- Fork: Verve steel
- Wheels: 700c double-wall alloy, 700x45c tires
- Drivetrain: Shimano Alivio 9-speed
- Brakes: Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc
- Weight: 51.5 lbs
- Rider Limit: 300 lbs
Review and Testing of Trek Verve+ 2:
Trek has built a solid reputation for crafting reliable electric bicycles at reasonable prices. The Verve+ 2 upholds this legacy with a design geared toward urban commuting. Its Alpha Gold aluminum frame ensures durability for daily use while accommodating various cargo-carrying needs with its mounting points.
Equipped with Bosch’s refined mid-drive system, the Verve+ 2 provides natural pedal assistance, reducing rider fatigue during commutes. Weighing just over 50 pounds, it strikes a balance between maneuverability and sturdiness, capable of enduring city riding conditions for extended periods with minimal stress. The step-through frame design adds to its accessibility for riders of different heights and ages.
Motor Performance:
The Bosch Active Line mid-drive motor powers the Verve+ 2 reliably, delivering 250W continuously and peaking at 340W. Offering substantial pedal assistance with 40 Nm torque, it swiftly engages near the bottom bracket, facilitating easy takeoffs and climbs with minimal exertion.
This motor’s sophisticated sensor accurately monitors cadence, adjusting assistance levels according to the rider’s pedal effort. With an IP54 weather resistance rating, it maintains peak performance despite exposure to rain, snow, salt, and debris, ensuring year-round reliability.
Battery
Utilizing advanced cell management, the integrated 400Wh lithium-ion battery boasts an extended lifespan, surpassing 500 charge cycles. Safely housed beneath the downtube and securely locked in place, it swiftly recharges to its full capacity within 5 hours using the compact 2A charger on board.
This formidable battery capacity enables an average riding range of over 37 miles, facilitating hassle-free multi-day commutes on a single charge. The digital display features a practical fuel gauge, offering a convenient overview of the remaining charge levels, aiding in planning refueling stops.
Designed for seamless integration, the battery maintains a discreet profile, preserving the bike’s aesthetics while ensuring a consistent and predictable energy supply throughout the ride.
Frame
Crafted from the resilient 6061-T6 aluminum alloy, the Trek Verve+ 2’s frame strikes a balance between lightweight design and exceptional durability. Its horizontal top tube configuration and low standover height ensure comfortable mounting and dismounting. The integrated Bosch internal cable routing not only streamlines the aesthetics but also shields components reliably. Multiple mounting points for racks and accessories allow for personalized customization to accommodate diverse cargo requirements, from groceries to larger loads. The bike’s geometry, featuring a longer wheelbase and short chainstays, blends agility with stability, offering confidence-inspiring control at various speeds.
Power
Trek pairs the 250W Bosch motor with a seamless 9-speed Shimano Alivio drivetrain, precisely adjusting power output in response to riders’ input. Offering five levels of assistance, ranging from gentle startup momentum to a robust 250W boost, the bike effortlessly handles steep inclines with 40 Nm of torque. The cadence sensor detects pedal vigor, optimizing the synergy between rider and machine. Even challenging terrains become effortless, allowing riders to embrace a natural cycling experience on flats and downhill stretches.
Range
With Trek’s conservative estimations projecting an average range of 37+ miles from the 400Wh battery, optimal conditions may extend this range further. While individual results vary due to numerous influencing factors, most riders can expect comfortable 2-3 day commutes between charges. The intuitive digital display monitor assists in managing energy consumption, ensuring adequate reserves for typical commutes even with high assist levels or loaded touring. Fast recharging capability minimizes downtime, maximizing mileage between plug-ins.
Handling
The Trek Verve+ 2’s aluminum frame and component selection ensure predictable and confident handling. Its slightly shorter wheelbase and chainstays, coupled with the inherent stiffness of the Alpha Gold frame, translate rider inputs promptly without feeling overly responsive. The steel fork upfront enhances compliance over uneven surfaces while maintaining precise control. Equipped with wider 700c wheels and 45mm tires, the bike offers stable traction, particularly on wet or uneven roads. The upright riding posture instills confidence, whether navigating through traffic or maneuvering on winding paths. Overall, the bike’s responsive yet grounded handling inspires confidence in urban environments or leisurely rides.
Brakes
Reliability in braking performance is paramount, and the Verve+ 2 delivers with Shimano’s hydraulic disc brakes. The single-piston front and rear calipers offer smooth modulation, ensuring immediate and consistent stopping power, even under heavy loads or high speeds. Utilizing 160mm rotors at the front and rear, these brakes effectively dissipate speed, maintaining control even in adverse weather conditions.
The linear and progressive braking feel instills confidence, supported by simple maintenance needs such as easily replaceable brake pads and a sealed system safeguarding against dirt and grime intrusion.
Controls
The Verve+ 2 places a premium on user-friendly controls, ensuring a straightforward operation of the electric bike.
LCD Display
Featuring a backlit LCD screen, the display presents all essential ride data in a clear and visually intuitive manner. Positioned centrally on the handlebars, its large digits offer easy readability, adjusting automatically for brightness to accommodate varying light conditions, whether under direct sunlight or in low-light environments. Alongside the selection of the current pedal assist level ranging from 1 to 5, the display exhibits real-time speed in either miles or kilometers per hour, total trip distance, a digital clock, and a battery level indicator gauge. Live updates of the remaining charge percentage are represented by five bars, providing a simple and effective delivery of crucial information that enhances the overall riding experience.
Controls
Designed for seamless and distraction-free operation during rides, the Verve+ 2 integrates four tactile hardware buttons to manage essential functions effortlessly. Positioned ergonomically below the LCD in a centralized horizontal alignment, these buttons offer a shape and spring-loaded tactility that enables easy pressing and tactile feedback without requiring visual attention. The upward and downward arrows smoothly navigate through the five levels of Bosch pedal assistance, allowing riders to select their preferred level for various terrains or riding paces. A dedicated power button facilitates the system’s on/off function, while a menu button grants access to fundamental bike settings, ensuring convenient adjustment without complications.
Pedal Assist
The bike ensures riders maintain control of their electric experience solely through natural pedaling input, guaranteeing exercise without the use of a throttle. The assistance sensor, located on the bottom bracket, instantaneously measures the force of each pedal stroke, seamlessly engaging the Bosch mid-drive motor in direct correlation. The amount of assistance scales from basic momentum support to a robust 250 watts of rotational force assistance, adjusting as the exertion increases. This intuitive system allows for nuanced adjustments to cadence or pedal effort, enhancing performance on rolling hills, quick acceleration from stops, or maintaining consistent cruising speeds effortlessly.
Drivetrain
Employing a 9-speed Shimano Alivio drivetrain, the Verve+ 2 offers a wide array of gearing ratios that complement the powered pedaling experience. The rear derailleur and twist shifters ensure intuitive and precise shifting, allowing riders to fine-tune the balance between pedaling effort and vehicle speed according to terrain grade or load. This multiple-gear setup enhances versatility, enabling easier ascent on steep inclines in lower gears and achieving higher speeds on flats or gentle descents in higher ranges.
Assembly Process
Assembling the Verve+ 2 is straightforward for individuals with moderate mechanical experience. The provided manual offers clear diagrams and instructions for guidance. Essential components such as the drivetrain, brakes, and electrical parts arrive partially assembled for straightforward installation. Mounting the compact rear rack takes just a few minutes, while installing the pedals requires a standard wrench. Inflating tires to the recommended psi is a quick task, and assembling the handlebar/stem unit is a simple click-and-lock process. The assembly primarily involves securing major components like the battery, motor, and wheels. Using basic tools, anyone can complete the assembly within an afternoon. This process familiarizes new owners with the e-bike’s fundamental components before their inaugural ride.
Accessories
The Verve+ 2 boasts versatile mounting points, allowing riders to tailor cargo and safety accessories to suit any commute or journey.
Lights
Featuring bright front and rear USB-charged lights from reputable brands like Spanninga, ensuring visibility day or night. These integrated mounts secure the lights without compromising other bike components. Equipped with LED bulbs, these lights offer extended use from a single charge, enhancing safety and visibility during evening rides without draining the battery.
Fenders
Full-coverage plastic fenders provide defense against road spray and mud from the rear wheel. Conveniently attached with clips under the chainstays at the back and around the fork legs upfront, optional flick/mud-flap extensions shield the rider and components from debris. These fenders guarantee riding comfort in various weather conditions.
Racks & Mounts
The Verve+ 2 offers additional mounts, allowing customization to accommodate diverse needs. Side racks from Topeak provide stable platforms for panniers or trailer attachments, while water bottle mounts ensure easy access to hydration. An available rear rack further extends the bike’s cargo capacity.
Kickstand
An integrated center-mount steel kickstand offers secure parking without the risk of tipping over. It supports the bike’s weight and additional cargo on both level and angled surfaces during stops.
Reflectors
Integrated wheel and leg/pedal reflective stickers enhance visibility to car headlights and streetlights within a 250-foot range after dark, adhering to safety laws and reducing the risk of being overlooked during night rides.
Sizing
Trek offers the Verve+ 2 in three frame sizes, catering to riders from 5’5″ to 6’6″. Each size corresponds to recommended heights and inseam lengths for a proper fit, ensuring control and comfort whether riding for errands or exercise.
Value
Priced at $2,849.99, the Verve+ 2 provides exceptional value for an electric bike with a proven Bosch drive system. Comparable e-bikes with similar features and quality components typically retail for over $3,000. Commuters can swiftly recoup their investment in just over a year through fuel savings and reduced maintenance costs compared to driving. With a battery designed for longevity and a durable motor, the bike offers years of reliable transportation. Additional savings arise from its use as a fitness device, potentially replacing gym memberships. Considering its utility, savings, and enjoyment, the upfront expense balances out over the bike’s lifespan.
Verdict
Ideal for commuters seeking a powerful and user-friendly electric bike, the Trek Verve+ 2 delivers an exceptional package. Its dependable Bosch motor coupled with a long-range battery ensures effortless emissions-free commuting. The bike features well-designed controls and an intuitive interface, requiring minimal learning. Its robust frame and components promise reliability for daily use.
Moreover, its accessory mounts enable versatile configurations, making it a standout in performance, compatibility, and value within the premium e-bike market. The Verve+ 2 comes highly recommended for those striving for enhanced commuting efficiency.
Areas of Improvement for the Trek Verve+:
- The steel fork, while effectively dampening vibrations, lacks suspension, which could enhance comfort.
- The Alivio drivetrain, though functional, may not match the durability of higher-end components.
- The restricted top speed of 20 mph might limit riding on busy roads.
Additionally, the narrower 35mm tire width might offer less traction compared to wider tires.
Trek Verve E-bike Series
The Trek Verve series consists of two models, the Verve 2 and Verve 3, which comes with a couple of differences. For instance, the Verve 3 features a Removable Integrated Battery with 500Wh, 50Nm motor torque, and runs on 700 by 50c Bontrager E6 tires. On the other hand, the Verve 2 uses an exposed 400Wh battery, 40Nm torque, and runs on 700 by 45c Bontrager H5 tires.
The Verve 3
Our Rating – 82/100
Trek Verve+ 2
The Trek Verve+ 2 is a hybrid electric bike that will boost your need for outdoor adventures! It is designed for commuting comfort, recreational cruises, and daily outings. It furthermore offers a slew of rider-friendly features. The best part of it all is that it is a very competitively priced electric bike!
