The Ride1Up Portola is a new budget-friendly yet feature-packed option in the e-bike market. With its foldable design and performance capabilities, it targets both daily commuters and leisure riders.
Specifications
- Motor: 48V 750W Geared Hub Motor, 65nm torque
- Controller: 48V 20Amp DMHC Sine-wave
- Display: KD21C adjustable speed display
- Battery: 48V-10.4Ah or 48V-13.4Ah
- Range: 20 to 40 miles with 10.4Ah battery
- Weight: 59 lbs
- Unfolded Dimensions: 66 x 44 x 18 inches
- Folded Dimensions: 36 x 16 x 30 inches
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Maximum Seat Height: 38 inches (968 mm)
- Assist: 5 adjustable levels, cadence-sensing
- Wheels: 20 x 3 inches cross-country tires
- Brakes: Dual piston hydraulic brakes, electric cut-off sensor, 180mm rotors
- Fork: 80mm suspension travel, hydraulic lockout, 110mm dropout
- Drivetrain: Shimano Altus 8-Speed
- Derailleur: Shimano Altus RD-M310
- Lights: Automatic LED front and brake lights
Product Images
Design and Comfort
The bike’s assembly is straightforward, arriving 90% complete, which simplifies the initial setup process. Besides, its controls are intuitive and offer customization for different pedal-assist levels, although most users might find the default settings adequate.
The Portola features a folding mechanism that allows you to fold down the handlebar and fold the frame in half. It compacts to a manageable size, which is a significant advantage for those with limited storage space or who frequently transport their bike in a car trunk. This design does not compromise the bike’s aesthetic or structural integrity, as it also features a solid folding system with a click-button safety latch and a protective strap to prevent scratches when folded.
The bike rides on 3-inch wide tires coupled with a front suspension fork that strike a perfect balance between comfort and versatility, handling off-road conditions as well as city streets. The seating position is upright and comfortable, complemented by well-padded seats and an option for an upsized battery that enhances range without overly affecting the weight. When ordering the bike, you can choose between the 10.4Ah and 13.4Ah battery with a $100 price difference. The 10.4Ah battery has a range of around 25-30 miles in my test; You can remove the battery easily with the included key, then you can take the battery anywhere for recharging.
The Portola weighs in at 59 lbs, which is fairly lightweight in the world of fat-tire e-bikes. Still, it might be challenging when you need to lift it upstairs or move into a car.
The lack of handlebar and stem adjustability might be a drawback for riders who prefer a more customized setup. The bike generally fits me well but I still prefer a more spacious cockpit. Taller riders (more than 5’7″) might find the bike less comfortable, as the maximum seat height may not be enough for optimal leg extension. Adjusting the seat height is also not as easy because the tube seems to be too tight for the seatpost, even when I loosen the latch; You can see scratches all over the seatpost as I adjust it.
Ride1Up doesn’t skimp on safety and maintenance features. The inclusion of hydraulic disc brakes is a major plus, providing reliable stopping power and a lower maintenance requirement compared to mechanical brakes. However, it’s noteworthy that while the charger is UL-certified, the battery lacks this certification at launch, although the company has indicated that certification is pending.
Performance
The Portola is powered by a 750-watt motor, which delivers sufficient power to handle varied terrains and inclines comfortably. This power is particularly helpful when climbing uphills, where the motor provides a steady boost without feeling underpowered. Despite its strong motor, the bike manages to maintain the feel of a traditional bicycle with an 8-speed rear derailleur, making it approachable for all riders. It is classified as a Class 2 e-bike, with electric assist cutting out at 20 mph. The bike offers fun and nimble rides with good stability in corners and uneven terrain.
Riders will appreciate the controlled and quiet assistance the motor offers, enhancing the riding experience without overwhelming it. The throttle response complements the pedal assist system well, providing a reliable boost when needed. However, it is not perfect even though Ride1Up states that they have improved the riding quality with current-based cadence sensors. They are supposed to address jerky and unresponsive rides but they still feel unnatural in my test with sudden speed boost, therefore, the cadence sensors can’t replace torque sensors any time soon. Besides, the throttle response is somewhat binary, lacking the finesse that I expect; Therefore, it often feels awkward when I need to start the bike slowly from a full stop.
Conclusion
Pros
- Strong motor
- Comfortable ride with front suspension and fat tires
- Good battery range
Cons
- The throttle lacks finesse, can’t provide gradual control.
- Limited cockpit space and seat height
- Lack of UL Certification for the battery
Overall, the Ride1Up Portola is a good choice with a solid range of features, including a powerful motor, a durable folding design, and comfortable rides. However, the e-bike market is very competitive at this time with numerous choices for less than $1,000. We don’t recommend the Portola at its full price of $995 but if you could get a $100-$200 discount, it’s totally worth trying.
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