E-Bike Overview
With an upright and relaxed seating position, gel saddle, mid-rise handlebars, and ergonomic rubber grips, the Smart Step provides an easy and comfortable ride through city streets. The large, 27.5-inch CST tires offer great traction on hard surfaces as well as easy riding on bumpy terrain thanks to the high volume of air and deep tread pattern.
The e-bike’s Tektro Aries mechanical disk brakes also provide great stopping power, while the 350-watt, rear-mounted, and geared hub motor from Bafang is exactly what you’d expect for a daily ride. It’s reliable and smooth, yet powerful enough for basic offroad use on compact ground.
SONDORS has also used a high-quality stainless steel chain which isn’t just more durable than other materials, but also rust-resistant. The e-bike’s aluminum frame allows it to maintain a lighter weight for transportation, yet its ability to carry up to 300 lbs proves just how sturdy this product is.
Reasons to Buy
At $1,199, the 2020 SONDORS Smart Step is on the lower end of the e-bike price range and offers great value for the money. Additionally, SONDORS has upgraded its once-standard 30-day warranty to a one-year comprehensive warranty, giving you peace of mind.
The model’s step-thru frame and ability to fold in half are two of its biggest selling points. The step-thru frame gives you greater accessibility, while the foldable e-bike frame allows you to easily transport it in your trunk or store it in tight spaces — like an apartment or small garage.
The LCD display is easy to use. It also maintains optimum visibility throughout your ride — even with the glare of direct sunlight.
Things to Consider
The SONDORS Smart Step is only available in one frame size, which can prove troublesome for taller riders. And for e-bike riders who love their accessories, keep in mind that none are included with this model. Therefore, you’ll need to factor in any additional accessories and their costs, such as lights, mudguards, racks, etc.
Another downside — the LCD display cannot be removed from the bike, placing it at risk of getting damaged when being stored in crowded bike racks or outdoors.
The CST tires also have some limitations, including a lack of visibility due to no reflective striping on the sidewalls. Additionally, they lack puncture protection.
