by Mark Smiley
Priority e-Classic Plus: It’s lightweight and is designed for what most people like to ride bikes for in Denver.
In past editions of this publication, we have reviewed electric bikes manufactured and sold by Hey Bike. Those bikes have a lot to offer and are still a viable option if you are in the market. However, not everyone needs what they feature which is a full throttle system and fat tires. If you are in the market for a more lightweight, sleek, and less powerful electric bike, consider the Priority e-Classic Plus, an electric bike first designed 10 years ago.
The Priority e-Classic Plus’s top speed is lower since it offers three gears of pedal assist. The top speed is 20 mph which we found to be ample. It takes a bit to get to that speed but it technically can achieve it.
The e-Classic Plus is also lightweight and it’s designed for what most people like to ride bikes for in Denver. It’s a nice bike to ride with family, head to the grocery store or work, or just take a cruise around the neighborhood. It provides a subtle energy boost without the maintenance and heft of other e-bikes. It weighs in at a total of 49 pounds which is at least 20 pounds lighter than some competitors. Plus, the aluminum frame is strong and rust resistant.
Maintenance Free: The signature feature of all Priority models is the rust/grease-free Gates Carbon Drive belt.
The signature feature of all Priority models is the rust/grease-free Gates Carbon Drive belt. Utilizing technology derived from motorsports, the carbon fiber tensile cords that reinforce the belt help it last two to three times longer than a standard chain, and the bike-specific tooth profile of the belt and sprockets help it feel smooth in all riding conditions. While a chain requires frequent lubrication and maintenance, the belt stays clean and efficient.
The e-Classic Plus features a 250W motor with a removable 374Wh battery integrated into the donwntube. The integrated battery and front hub motor gives the bike a balanced weight distribution, so it’s easy to ride on-power or off-power with virtually no drag. The battery is removable with a key and will charge both in and out of the frame.
The hydraulic disc brakes are also reliable and require little maintenance. They come with a 180mm front rotor and 160mm rear. They performed well in our tests in different riding conditions. It always felt like a smooth and controlled stop. This is an electric bike you can feel comfortable having your kids ride. Another reason to feel comfortable letting any member of the family ride are the safety features. The built-in lights feature a brake sensing function and the hydraulic disc brakes feature a motor cut-off function. So, when you grab the brakes, it signals the motor to shut off and the rear light gets brighter like it does on a car when you hit the brakes.
The e-Classic Plus resembles a regular bicycle more than any other we have reviewed. The e-Classic Plus features an upright frame geometry with a padded seat, 38mm wide tires, composite fenders, built-in front and rear lights, mounts for accessories like a rack-mounted child seat, and backswept handlebars that are fully adjustable so you can dial in personalized comfort. It is available in step-over (diamond) frame and a climb step-through frame.
Overall, if you are in the market for an electric bike that is lightweight and safe and you don’t need to travel at speeds exceeding 28 mph through town, consider the Priority e-Classic Plus. The maintenance free features and little extra boost while riding will be more than adequate for most riders.
The Priority e-Classic Plus retails at $1,699. To learn more about this bike, visit www.prioritybicycles.com/products/eclassicplus.