Greetings, everyone! Micah Toll from Electrek here, and today we’ve got an exciting review for you – we’re diving into the details of the Ride1Up Prodigy V2. Considered the company’s most premium e-bike to date, this model is loaded with top-notch features that elevate your riding experience.
Just imagine: a Gates Carbon Belt Drive, a brosa mid-drive motor, quad-piston hydraulic disc brakes, and even a CVT transmission – the Prodigy V2 comes equipped with the works. Join us on this journey as we take a closer look at the intricate details that make this e-bike stand out from the crowd.
Whether you’re cruising with the Gates carbon belt drive, enjoying the power of the brosa mid-drive motor, or relishing the precision of the quad-piston hydraulic disc brakes, the Prodigy V2 promises an impressive ride. And let’s not forget the convenience and smooth shifting offered by the CVT transmission – it’s the complete package.
So, buckle up and come along with us as we explore the Ride1Up Prodigy V2, breaking down each component and feature to give you an in-depth understanding of what makes this e-bike the epitome of Ride1Up’s premium offerings. Stay tuned for Micah Toll’s insights and firsthand experience with the V2 – it’s time to uncover the secrets behind this top-tier electric bicycle.
| FRAME | Lightweight alloy frame |
| MOTOR | Brose TF Sprinter German made mid-drive motor with 90nm torque |
| SPEED | Class 3 electric bike, with 28mph pedal assist |
| DISPLAY | Brose Display Allround, 1.5" Color Display |
| BRAKES | Tektro 4 Piston HD-M745 180mm Hydraulic |
| TIRES | Maxxis Rekon Race 27.5 x 2.25" |
| CASSETTE XR/ST | Shimano Alivio 9-Speed 11-34T |
| BATTERY | 36V14ah Phylion BN21, Samsung Cells, Smart BMS |
| RANGE | 30-50 miles depending on rider weight, terrain, incline, level of assist, etc. |
Design and Build Quality
The Ride1Up Prodigy V2 boasts a design and build quality that caters to a versatile riding experience, whether on the road or off. Equipped with a fender set, LED lighting, and a rear rack, the Prodigy V2 addresses practical concerns for riders. The integration of the tail light into the rack not only enhances visibility but also minimizes the risk of entanglement at bike racks or interference with cables.
The Max’s Tires included with the Prodigy V2 may be deemed overkill for strictly street riding, but they contribute to the bike’s ability to handle off-road conditions effectively. Despite a slight increase in weight, ranging from 58 to 61 lbs depending on frame type and drivetrain, the Prodigy V2 remains manageable, with riders often not feeling the weight significantly during regular use.
This weight is within an acceptable range for many, especially considering the bike’s intended use for leisure trails and commuting rather than extreme maneuvers like big jumps.
One notable aspect that may draw some criticism is the use of thin skewer axles instead of thicker through axles. While skewers are generally functional, some riders might prefer the sturdiness associated with through axles, especially on a bike with high-quality components. However, the trade-off here is reasonable, considering the significant cost savings compared to higher-end models.
Pricing for the Prodigy V2 starts at $2395 for the 9-speed chain version, with a belt drive CVT version available for $2695. While this places the Prodigy V2 on the higher end of Ride1Up’s product range, it remains notably more affordable than comparable offerings from traditional bike shops. The competitive pricing, when compared to established brands like Tracker and Specialized, positions the V2 as an attractive option for riders looking for a balance between quality components and cost savings.
While acknowledging that the Prodigy may not be on par with the absolute top-tier bikes in terms of every component, the reviewer suggests that the trade-offs are acceptable considering the substantial savings. The V2 competes closely with higher-priced bikes, offering riders a compelling alternative with a balance of quality and affordability, even if some compromises are made along the way.
Ride1Up Prodigy V2: Motor and Driving Test
As a devoted fan of the original Ride1Up product, my anticipation for the Prodigy V2 was high, especially since I opted for the higher-end model featuring the Gates Carbon Drive and the enviolo continuously variable transmission (CVT). While the 9-speed chain drive version is undoubtedly impressive, the allure of a belt drive was too enticing to resist.
The standout feature of both models lies in the bro TF Sprinter motor, which powers the Prodigy V2. With a top speed of 28 mph, it classifies as a Class 3 e-bike, offering a thrilling and efficient riding experience. Boasting 90 Nm of torque, the brosa motor facilitates formidable climbs even without the need for a throttle, although being in the right gear certainly enhances the experience. Beyond its power, the brosa motor incorporates a torque sensor and is part of the broader brosa ecosystem, ensuring high-quality electronics throughout the bike.
The Prodigy V2’s drivetrain is a marvel, especially with the enviable combination of the enviolo CVT and the Gates Carbon Drive. The enviolo system employs a proprietary mechanism, providing stepless shifting, essentially offering an infinite number of gears within its broad ratio range.
While I tend to stick to the upper half of the range, having the flexibility to adjust for steep hills adds to the bike’s versatility. The Gates Carbon belt drive complements the CVT, offering a quiet, simple, clean, and nearly maintenance-free drivetrain. This combination is particularly appealing for a bike designed to seamlessly transition between on-road commuting and off-road trail adventures, especially with the added benefit of a 100 mm air suspension fork.
Maintenance considerations continue to make the Prodigy V2 an attractive choice. With no chain to oil and the absence of extensive brake maintenance, thanks to the quad-piston Tektro disc brakes, riders can enjoy both urban commuting and trail riding without the burden of constant upkeep. The hydraulic disc brakes, with their quad pistons, deliver a satisfyingly punchy response, allowing for easy one-finger braking – a feature that adds to the overall appeal of the bike.
Even for riders primarily sticking to the road, the Prodigy V2 presents itself as a well-rounded option with features like the air suspension fork and robust braking system, making it suitable for diverse riding styles.
The thoughtful integration of quality components and innovative design choices makes the Prodigy V2 a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and high-performance e-bike.
Battery and Range
Turning our attention to the battery aspect, the Prodigy V2 features a 504-watt-hour battery, which may be considered slightly below the current average in the market. However, it’s important to note that this e-bike operates as a pedal-assist model, and the dynamics of its power delivery contribute to a different range experience compared to throttle-based bikes.
Despite its seemingly modest size, the 504-watt-hour battery on the Prodigy V2 offers a range that can be likened to that of a larger 700 or 800-watt-hour battery on a throttle-based e-bike. The pedal-assist nature of the Prodigy V2 ensures more efficient use of the battery’s power, translating to a range of approximately 30 to 50 miles per charge. This range is contingent on various factors, including the selected power levels during riding.
Achieving the claimed 30 to 50 miles of range per charge is indeed realistic, providing riders with ample distance coverage for their daily commutes, leisure rides, or even extended trail adventures. The efficiency of the pedal-assist system contributes to a more nuanced and energy-conserving riding experience, making the Prodigy V2 an eco-friendly and practical choice for those who prioritize a balance between battery size and performance.
Ride1Up Prodigy V2: Conclusions
Overall, the Ride1Up Prodigy V2 emerges as a standout choice in the North American mid-drive e-bike market. With its commendable components, efficient drivetrain, and compelling value proposition, it positions itself as one of the best deals currently available. The integration of quality features, including the bro TF Sprinter motor, enviolo CVT, and Gates Carbon Drive, ensures a satisfying and versatile riding experience.
This e-bike not only competently performs on both urban streets and off-road trails, but it does so without breaking the bank. The Prodigy V2 strikes a balance between affordability and high-quality components, providing riders with an attractive alternative to much pricier models that share the same motor.
We appreciate your time in joining us for this review of the Ride1Up Prodigy V2. If you found the information helpful and insightful, we encourage you to give the review a thumbs up and consider subscribing for more content on electric vehicles. Stay tuned for our future videos, and we look forward to having you back here with us next time. Happy riding!
