Velotric Discover 1 Review

Reviewed by Eddy Trier

velotric discover 1 review

Overview

Max Speed

25mph

Max Range

65 Miles

Motor Power

500W

Engine Type

Geared Hub Motor

Charge Time

5-6 Hours

Weight

65 lbs / 29.4 Kgs

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Reasons to buy

I highly recommend considering the Velotric Discover 1 if you’re in the market for an e-bike. Firstly, the bike’s speed capabilities are impressive. While the acceleration rate may be slower compared to similar Class 2 electric bikes, the Discover 1 makes up for it with its excellent torque production of around 65Nm. This feature allows you to take on challenging climbs with ease. Moreover, the bike’s 500W hub motor and fast tires enable you to achieve and maintain high speeds. With pedal assist levels 2 and 3, you can hit the 20mph mark, providing a thrilling riding experience.

Another reason to consider the Discover 1 is its overall design and build quality. The frame, made from a durable 6061-aluminum alloy, feels sturdy and reliable. Despite being a low-step bike, it doesn’t compromise on support or structural integrity. Additionally, the internally integrated 48v battery contributes to the bike’s sleek appearance. It provides a decent range of around 30 miles on a single charge, which is perfect for most commuting needs. Overall, the Velotric Discover 1 offers a great combination of performance, style, and durability at an affordable price point.

Reasons to Avoid

While the Velotric Discover 1 has many positive aspects, there are a few factors to consider before making a purchase. One drawback is the bike’s slower braking system. The unbranded mechanical disc brakes, although paired with 180mm rotors, are not as responsive as some other systems on the market. This can lead to a slightly longer stopping distance, which may be a concern, especially in busy traffic or at junctions. It’s important to be aware of this limitation and adjust your riding style accordingly.

Another aspect to consider is the bike’s pedal assist levels. While some riders may appreciate simplicity, others might find the three available levels limiting. With a Class 2 e-bike like the Discover 1, the top speed is capped at 20mph, but the first level of pedal assist might not be sufficient to reach that speed. However, levels 2 and 3 offer a satisfactory boost. Depending on your personal preferences and riding needs, it’s worth considering if these limited options align with your expectations. Overall, while the Discover 1 has a lot to offer, it’s important to be aware of these minor drawbacks before making a decision.

Velotric Discover 1 Review

There is no better time than the present to make the switch to an e-bike. Whether you are replacing your existing pedal bike or are looking to reduce or completely eliminate the use of your car, then there are a lot of great options out there for you. Some would say there’s possibly too many options. However, I like the fact that there is a great deal of variety, as I means you can often find the best e-bike for your budget that meets all your needs.

How do you do that? Well, one of the ways is by researching and thinking about what you want from an e-bike. You can also take a look at reviews like this one. Rather than just talk about the positives, throughout this review, I will discuss some of the aspects of this e-bike that I was not so keen on in addition to all the stuff I loved. That gives you a more balanced take on what it might be like to own and use this bike.

The Speed

Before I delve further into what this bike has to offer, I wanted to start by discussing the important subject of speed. One thing I noticed is that the acceleration rate is much slower compared to similar Class 2 electric bikes. That is not necessarily a bad thing though. When the pedal assist is engaged, the throttle helps to accelerate the bike a little faster. However, one of the major positives about this bike is that it produces around 65Nm of torque, making it excellent for taking on challenging and steep climbs.

Thanks to the 500W hub motor and the fast tires, this bike can achieve and maintain just about any speed. When using pedal assist levels 2 and 3, you will be able to hit the 20mph mark.

Velotric Discover 1 Overview

The Velotric Discover 1 is a class-2 electric bike that walks the line between being a big city commuter bike and a more casual cruiser. Made from a 6061-aluminum alloy, its frame is very slick, streamlined and doesn’t look too bad ether. It also has a very sturdy and durable feel, which is great and not something you always see on low-step bikes, as there is no top tube to provide extra support.

The Battery, The Motor, and the Pedal Assist

Now that I have established some of the basics, I am going to delve into the more interesting aspects of this bike. For one thing, it has an internally integrated and juicy 48v battery. The fact that it is hidden away helps to give the bike its clean and slick look and feel. If you didn’t tell anyone this was an e-bike and didn’t engage in the motor around them, they could be forgiven for thinking that it was a traditional pedal-only bike.

I was happy enough with the battery and its performance. One thing I would point out though is that Velotric have claimed it provides a range of 80 miles. That was not my experience at all. There have always been issues within the industry with how range is measured and often companies will provide better range guarantees than is truthful.

II found it to be easy to get 30 miles out of a charge. Which is great, because when you put that together with safe riding speed. Just don’t let the company’s words fool you.

Along with the 8v battery, there is the 500W, 48v rear-hub motor that helps to produce the aforementioned 65Nm of torque.

It didn’t feel quite that powerful when I was riding it but was quiet and kicked in quickly. When compared to other Class 2 electric bikes, it felt a little underwhelming.

I know I might be a lone wolf in thinking this, but in many of the e-bikes I’ve ridden, there has been too many pedal assist levels to choose from. I was delighted to see that the Discover 1 was only manufactured with three. This made things simple and straightforward when it came to controlling the bike. As it is a Class-2 bike, you will never get it higher than 20mph. While the first level is unlikely to get you to top speed, levels 2 and 3 will.

The Brakes

Following the battery, motor, and pedal assist, I felt it was a good idea to discuss the brakes. Unlike many of the bikes featured on this site that rely on named brands like Tektro for their bikes, the Discover 1 utilizes unbranded mechanical disc brakes. The positive is, although there is no real tested quality to the brakes themselves, they are paired with both rear and front 180mm rotors. This provides the necessary stopping power.

In my testing of the brakes, I found that they were slower than many of the other systems I have tested in the past. However, I still think they are strong enough to be classed as safe – I just would prefer that they were a bit quicker at slowing me down. Especially on busy roads and junctions.

The Gears

Whereas the Discover 1 relies on unbranded brakes, it’s a relief to see that it is a 7-speed Shimano Tourney drivetrain that it has been fitted with for gear-changing.  Shimano is one of those names that is synonymous with the cycling industry and has a reputation for making some of the best systems on the planet. As they are so common, it also means when you need repairs or replacements, it’s not hard to find them.

Comfort of Ride

Another vital aspect of Discover 1 that I am sure you want me to discuss is how comfortable it is. With handlebars that have been designed to offer an ergonomic and comfort-focused shape with rubber grips that make it easy to hold onto them for short commutes and longer journeys. The saddle has been designed with comfort firmly in mind also. While still being sporty and wide for better pedal action, it is hard to complain about the level of plushness it offers underneath you.

The pedals are plastic, but this is standard with most e-bikes, but thanks to the pedaling position you have greater comfort.

The Handling

One key feature of any great bike is its high-quality handling. If you are looking for a bike that you will feel safe on the road with, you need to consider the handling different options offered. The Discover 1 handles it in a way that suggests it wants the rider to enjoy the ride. I appreciated the upright geometry that kept me looking ahead to take in the view and the combination saddle, and grips make it great over longer periods. The suspension fork and fast-rolling tires give it a sense of numbness that is hard not to smile at. Overall, it is a fun bike to ride.

The Display

There is nothing much to say about the LCD display, but I am guessing that this won’t really be a dealbreaker, especially if you are just looking for a vehicle to get from a to b, while doing your bit for the planet.

It includes everything you will want to see when you are on a trip, such as battery life, pedal assist level you are set to, milage, and speed. The placement and 3.5-inch size make it much easier to have quick glances while you travel. You will also find it bright enough, even on bright and sunny days that tend to cause a lot of glaring on these displays. If that wasn’t enough, it also includes a night mode there is further illumination that is great for nighttime rides and low light level conditions.

Additional Features and Accessories

In terms of accessories and extra features, the Discover 1 provides value for money. It has rear and front fenders, a rear rank that has a maximum capacity of 55lbs. Although these are only three extras, they are great extras to have on a bike like this because it increases its practical value.

Summary – Does Velotric Discover 1 Meet the Cut?

There you have it; all you really need to know in addition to what the manufacturer provides about the Discover 1 electric bike. If you are interested in a bike that is not too powerful, but will help you conquer hills, while offering a comfortable and enjoyable ride, then it may be right for you. I found Discover 1 to be full of surprises. It could have been faster, could have had tighter and stronger brakes, but these are just small things. I never once felt unsafe when I was on it and taking corners was an absolute dream. The rack at the back and added fenders at both the rear and front, were welcome additions and it doesn’t hurt that it looks exceptionally cool, too.

For the price, there is not a lot to argue with this 7-speed electric road bike. You will find the commute to and from work to be a dream just as much as you will on the weekends and days off.

Specifications

velotric discover 1 review
  • Motor: 48V, 500W, max torque 65Nm
  • Battery: 48V, 691Wh, UL 2271 Recognized
  • Charge time: 5-6 hours
  • Maximum Speed: 25 mph
  • Range: up to 65 miles on a single charge
  • Frame: Aluminum alloy, fully integrated & lockable down tube battery, internal cable routing, front and rear fenders
  • Suspension: Hydraulic suspension with 80mm travel, with Lock-out
  • Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes 180mm front and rear
  • Transmission: Shimano SL-TZ50, 7-speed, thumb shifter
  • Tires: 26 x 2.5’’, puncture-resistant liner
  • Display: 3.5’’ Backlit LCD display with speed, trip, battery, assist Level and more
  • Lights: High output integrated LED, adjustable angle at front, Integrated with rear fender at rear
  • Weight: 65 lbs / 29.4 Kgs
  • Weight Capacity: 440 lbs / 200 Kgs

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