Price: Starts at $2395
Ride1Up is one of my favorite electric bike makers, making affordable and high-quality bikes that utilize innovative technology to make their bikes even more user-friendly and comfortable. The Prodigy V2 is one of their offerings with an option for Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT), which is a variation of an Internal Gear Hub (IGH).
CVT is a relatively new technology that essentially offers infinite gear ratios instead of the limited transmissions that most bikes have. Enviolo supplies the CVT for the Prodigy V2 and uses a series of rotating ball bearings, called planets, instead of gears. Depending on the tilt of the balls, a nearly infinite “gear ratio” is possible. What is even more impressive is that unlike with standard gear-based systems, shifting can occur while idle, which allows gear choice even from a standstill. This is not possible with geared systems, which risk misaligning the derailleur. A special oil makes shifting even easier.
CVTs offer several advantages including seamless shifting, easier shifting under load, the ability to choose the best gear ratio precisely on the fly, no jumps when shifting, and silent shifting, since there are no gear changes. There are a few disadvantages to IGHs including increased weight and price. Also, for athletes in training, specific gear ratios might be preferred, which are only possible on typical derailleurs. The Prodigy V2 also comes in a version with a traditional 9-speed derailleur instead of CVT.
Ride1Up pairs the Enviolo Trekking CVT hub with a powerful Brose mid-drive motor, producing 90Nm torque. Mid-drive motors are mounted in the center of the frame providing power to the crank. This center position allows for better motor performance and better stability and balance. This motor is paired with a 504Wh battery, giving a stated range of 30-50 miles, depending on the usual factors. Like other Ride1Up electric bikes, the Prodigy V2 is considered a class 3 bike with a maximum 28mph pedal assist mode with an integrated torque sensor. Torque sensors are purported to provide a feel more consistent with a traditional bike since the amount of assist depends on the amount of torque input by the rider. There is no throttle mode.
The bike weighs in at 58-61 lbs depending on configuration. Weight capacity is a typical 300 lbs. The frame comes in both step-over and step-through versions. The air suspension fork has 100mm travel Color choices include Sea Fog (gray), Onyx Black, and Faded Bronze. The bikes includes both front and rear lights as well as a rear rack. As with many high-quality bikes, the brakes are hydraulic, giving more control over braking.
Pros
- Included front and rear lights
- Included rear rack
- Step-through and step-over frames available
- CVT or traditional derailleur
- Mid-drive motor maximizes efficiency and balance
Cons
- If you are looking for a passive riding option, there is no throttle mode
Verdict 5/5 Stars
If you like having the latest and greatest technology with a performance bike that is both versatile and mimics the natural feel of a traditional bike, the Prodigy V2 just might be for you. If you prefer the precise control of gearing, it comes in a version with a derailleur and gears. You get a lot of great technology for a moderate price.
Prodigy V2 Key Stats
| Motor | MId-Mount Brose TF Sprinter 90nm torque |
| Battery | 504 Wh |
| Range | 30-50 miles |
| Weight | 58-61 lbs |
| Capacity | 300 lbs |
| Cassette | Enviolo Trekking CVT or Shimano Alivio 9-Speed 11-34T |
| Front and Rear LIghts | Included |
| Rear Rack | Custom 40lbs Cargo Rack |
| Tires | Maxxis Rekon Race 27.5 x 2.25" |