Efficiency-wise, there’s no pedal-assist or throttle lag, as I’ve skilled on some cheaper ebikes. I believed this is able to really feel unnervingly quick, however the sturdy body and extensive tires are extremely steady. I felt completely snug going quick (for an ebike). I prevented taking corners and tight turns at full velocity as a result of the bike is so heavy, however in any other case, I felt confident throughout testing.
With a 505-pound on-bike weight restrict, the Nomad 2 has the next load capability than different ebikes I’ve examined, notably folding fashions. Velotric additionally advertises a 1,000-pound towing capability. That quantity registers impressively excessive to me, however I have never examined the declare. Even so, I’m skeptical of how lengthy the battery would final whereas towing 1,000 kilos of cargo.
The battery vary is fairly customary for a full-size ebike, although spectacular for a mannequin of this heft. Velotric advertises a 65-mile vary for pedal-assist and 45 miles for throttle, and I respect that each ranges are listed. That stated, I’ve maxed out at round 37 miles on the throttle and at round 47 miles with pedal help. To be honest, I’m typically driving on hills and bumpy surfaces, which additionally drains the battery quicker. I additionally benefit from the IPX7 waterproof battery housing, as I’m liable to get caught out within the rain through the shoulder seasons of southwest Montana, the place I stay. My Rad Powerbike can’t deal with rain with its partially enclosed battery, so I’m extra prone to take the Velotric out if the climate is iffy.
An Off-Street Delight
{Photograph}: Maggie Slepian
I examined this bike for commuting functions on the paved roads of my very suburban city. I additionally used it off-road on bike paths, gravel, rutted dust, and in open fields. It labored nicely in all situations. The large 4-inch Kenda tires, which got here completely inflated, do a beautiful job absorbing influence whereas rolling simply over obstacles. I encountered some ruts and ridges that I believed would yield a painful thud, however the bike dealt with them easily.
