If you’re in search of a classy folding electric bike that effortlessly marries style with portability and doesn’t compromise on features, then the Blix Vika+ Flex may be the perfect fit for you. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into every aspect of the bike, from its design and components to its on-road performance, ensuring you have a thorough understanding of what this e-bike has to offer.
As we conduct a detailed walk-around, we’ll explore all the components that make up the Vika+ Flex. From the silver accents and paint-matched fenders to the rear rack and unique color offerings, every detail has been carefully considered. The review will touch upon the bike’s 500W motor, 14 amp-hour battery, and the thoughtful inclusion of features like USB support and Zoom hydraulic disc brakes.
By the end of this comprehensive review, viewers will have a well-rounded understanding of the Blix Vika+ Flex, empowering them to make an informed decision based on their specific preferences and needs in a folding electric bike.
| Frame | Aluminum Alloy, Folding |
| Motor | Rear Hub, Geared, 500W |
| Shifter | Twist shifter, 7-speed |
| Display | LCD, with USB Charge Port |
| Brakes | Mechanical Disc, 160mm Rotors |
| Saddle | Comfort Padded |
| Wheel & Tire | 20” x 2.4”, Puncture Resistant, Reflective Strip |
| Fenders | Painted Alloy |
| Battery | 614Wh (48V) |
| Charger | 2A, AC 120V - 240V |
| Sensor | 12 Magnet Cadence Sensor, BB Mount |
Packaging
Additionally, the inclusion of a derailer guard ensures the protection of the components, especially when folding and transporting the bike. The motor cable is neatly routed on the right side, contributing to the clean and organized look of the electric bike.
The bike comes with a Blix-branded 2-amp charger, underlining the company’s commitment to providing necessary accessories for the user’s convenience. The inclusion of tools, an assembly guide, and even an adapter for front access installation demonstrates Blix’s consideration for the user’s experience.
As a final touch, the package includes a stylish Blix electric bikes bag, showcasing the brand’s attention to detail and commitment to delivering a complete and satisfying electric biking experience. Overall, the Blix Vika+ Flex not only impresses with its aesthetic appeal but also with the thoughtful inclusion of accessories and features that enhance both form and function.
Design and Build Quality
The Blix Vika+ Flex is an electric folding bike that boasts a combination of sleek design, compact folding capability, and commendable build quality. In this review, we’ll delve into its key features, design elements, and the folding process.
The Blix Vika+ Flex exudes a sense of classiness, making it stand out in the crowded folding e-bike market. The steel blue color chosen adds a sharp and modern touch. The frame is well-constructed, and the attention to detail is evident, with paint-matched metal fenders, a Blix badge at the front, and silver components throughout. The overall aesthetic is enhanced by the integration of both front and rear lights.
The bike offers a comfortable riding experience for a wide range of riders, accommodating those as short as 4’10” to as tall as 6’2″. The standover height of 16.2 inches makes it easy for riders to hop on, and the adjustable handlebars provide additional customization for the rider’s comfort.
Weighing in at 55 lbs with the battery installed (or 47.5 lbs without), the Vika+ Flex is a relatively lightweight electric bike. This makes it easy to maneuver and handle, especially for riders who may need to carry or store it regularly. The build quality is apparent, with unbranded hydraulic disc brakes providing reliable stopping power. The 20-inch by 2.35-inch Kenda tires offer a hybrid tread, providing a good balance of stability and agility.
Blix has paid attention to practicality, incorporating features like cable management, a magnet to keep the bike folded, and a USB port on the display for charging devices on the go. The display itself, while basic, is large and easy to read, displaying essential information such as battery capacity, speed, and pedal assist levels.
The folding process of the Vika+ Flex is straightforward and user-friendly. Starting with folding the pedals, the handlebars can be collapsed using the lever, and the handlebars themselves can be folded down. The bike can then be easily folded, with a magnet helping to keep the wheels together. The compact dimensions, especially due to the narrower tires, make it easy to store and transport, and removing the battery can further enhance its portability.
So, the Blix Vika+ Flex impresses with its combination of elegant design, solid build quality, and convenient folding capabilities. Priced attractively, especially considering the current sale, it offers a compelling option for riders seeking a reliable and stylish folding e-bike with a US-based customer support system.
Blix Vika+ Flex: Motor and Driving Test
The attention to aesthetics on the Blix Vika+ Flex extends beyond the visual appeal of the frame to even the 500-watt motor. The fact that the motor is silver adds a touch of coherence to the overall design, showcasing the company’s commitment to a unified and stylish appearance.
The silver 500-watt motor not only contributes to the bike’s visual appeal but also packs a punch in terms of performance. I hint at the motor’s torque, suggesting that it is not just about looks but also about delivering a powerful and responsive riding experience. The silver color choice for the motor aligns seamlessly with other silver components on the bike, creating a harmonious design language.
In the upcoming first-person riding footage, I plan to demonstrate the motor’s capabilities by engaging the throttle, emphasizing the importance of torque for an electric bike. This further underscores the company’s dedication to providing not only an aesthetically pleasing product but also one that performs exceptionally well.
Moving on to the gearing system, the Vika+ Flex features an 8-speed setup with an 11-tooth to 32-tooth rear cassette and a dual-sided silver 52-tooth front chain ring. The use of silver components throughout the bike’s drivetrain reinforces the attention to detail in maintaining a consistent color theme.
The Blix Vika+ Flex is not just about looks; it also delivers an impressive performance on the road. The step-through frame design enhances accessibility, making it super easy to mount and dismount. Regardless of whether you’re in pedal assist level zero or five, full access to the throttle is available, making it a Class 2 electric bike with a top speed of 20 mph while pedaling or using the throttle.
The bike is equipped with a 500-watt motor, and I am eager to showcase its capabilities in the upcoming first-person riding footage. The silver color of the motor not only contributes to the overall aesthetics but hints at the power and torque it can deliver.
In a throttle-only test, the bike accelerates rapidly, reaching the top speed of 20 mph effortlessly. The lighter weight of the bike is also noted, making it feel nimble and responsive. I appreciate the narrower tires, providing a nimble ride and enhanced maneuverability.
The bike features an 8-speed gearing system with a dual-sided silver 52-tooth front chain ring and a 11-tooth to 32-tooth rear cassette. The Cadence Sensor, which is part of the bike’s pedal-assist system, is described as responsive, and I demonstrate the different pedal assist levels, highlighting the bike’s versatility.
During a hill climb test, the 500-watt motor performs exceptionally well, maintaining a minimum speed of 15 mph on a steep incline. The bike is described as one of the best-performing 500-watt motors, showcasing its capability to tackle challenging terrains.
It also touches upon some practical considerations, such as the potential need for adjustments to the rear kickstand to prevent contact with the rider’s heel.
Battery and range
The Blix Vika+ Flex features a conveniently located battery, positioned behind the C-tube of the frame. To access the battery, the user needs to turn the keys to the left to unlock it. I recommend using two hands to lift the battery out for a secure and controlled handling process.
This electric bike is equipped with a robust 48V 14 amp-hour battery, providing ample power for extended rides. It’s crucial to ensure that the battery’s power button is turned on before setting out on a ride. The battery also features indicators for the current capacity, allowing riders to keep track of the remaining power.
For those seeking a solution for battery storage when not in use, I suggest checking out the battery bags available at shop.ebike escape.com. This accessory can provide protection for the battery and make storage more organized and convenient.
When it’s time to put the battery back into place, the process is straightforward. Users need to align the grooves on the battery with the corresponding slots on the frame, push it into place, and then remember to lock it securely to the frame using the keys. This ensures a snug and stable fit, preventing any potential disruptions during the ride.
Blix Vika+ Flex: Conclusions
Overall, the Blix Vika+ Flex stands out in the competitive folding e-bike category, offering a unique blend of aesthetics, portability, and performance. Priced at $1599, it may not be the most affordable option, but several factors make it a compelling choice for the right buyer.
The petite and classy design of the Vika+ Flex makes it less intimidating than many other e-bikes, thanks in part to the thinner tubing around the frame. The external placement of the battery is a thoughtful design choice, contributing to the bike’s lightweight construction. With the battery attached, it weighs in at 55 lbs, dropping to a manageable 47.5 lbs without, making it a practical choice for those seeking a portable e-bike.
Compared to leading folding e-bikes in the market, the Vika+ Flex excels in weight management, especially when considering alternatives with heavy suspension forks. The use of 2.4-inch wide tires instead of bulkier 3-inch ones adds to the bike’s maneuverability while providing a unique visual appeal.
The silver accents, paint-matched fenders, and rear rack, along with the color options, showcase the extra thought put into the bike’s aesthetics. The 500W motor, though not immediately apparent from its appearance, surprises with its powerful performance, outperforming competitors on hill climbs with a minimum speed of 15 mph.
The 14 amp-hour battery is standard for its price range, and the simple yet large display provides essential information to riders. The Zoom hydraulic disc brakes offer ample stopping power, even if larger rotors would have been a welcomed addition.
The micro shift drivetrain performs well, and the twist shifter, while less common, serves as a personal preference option. The inclusion of USB support adds to the bike’s practicality.
So, the Blix Vika+ Flex is a classy folding e-bike that strikes a harmonious balance between weight and power. If you’re in the market for an aesthetically pleasing, portable electric bike with reliable performance, the Blix Vika+ Flex could be a fitting choice. I encourage potential buyers to consider supporting the channel through the provided links and express gratitude for the audience’s engagement.
