E-Bike Overview
With its powerful 70Nm, 250-watt mid-drive motor, the Giant Explore E+ is a great machine for touring, commuting, and utility runs with a little light off-roading thrown in. The electric bike comes with German Government-approved front and rear lights, making it rideable day and night through the year.
This machine’s control system is a breeze to operate. The EVO RideControl is intuitive to use, and alongside a smartphone, can help you navigate using GPS.
There are two models available: the high crossbar E+ 2 GTS and the women’s low crossbar E+ 2 STA. Of these, we prefer the Explore E+ 2 GTS thanks to the option for a 250Wh range extender that plugs into the top of the battery — because of the geometry of the frame, this isn’t available on the 2 STA model.
Reasons to Buy
If you want an electric bike to replace your car, the Giant Explore E+ is going to do the job very well. Fun and comfortable to ride, you’ll find every excuse you can to use it and leave your car at home!
The pannier racks will take a good weight, whether you’re bringing your laptop and paperwork for work, shopping, or the gear you need for a night or two’s touring. And with the EnergyPak Plus range extender battery, a 111-mile run could be possible in ideal conditions — more than enough for a day’s touring!
The RideControl system has connectivity to your smartphone, and with this, you can find your way to new places, whether a client’s business on a commute or a high mountain pass to enjoy the views! You’ll be able to get a clear view of all your bike’s stats thanks to the RideDash EVO display.
We love the simplicity of the control system. In Auto Mode, it allows you to ride this just like an analog bike, without worrying about clicking the power mode on different inclines and descents.
Things to Consider
Of the two models we looked at, we found the Explore E+ 2 GTS model better because you can add a range extender to it. Since the women’s version, the 2 STA, doesn’t offer this, it means ladies have to sacrifice comfort by switching to the 2 GTS or range by sticking with the 2 STA.
Another issue is the Auto Mode on the ride control system can be power-hungry, and this will impact range. To get the most miles on a single charge, switch over to Manual mode. This lets you put more energy in with your legs, reducing the power load on the motor.
