Momentum Transend E+ Review (2022)

The Momentum Transend E+ is a class 1 commuter electric bike. Launched in 2021 as part of the Giant family, the company created this model to offer its urban line. The version I’m reviewing today is the 2022 one.

Transend E+ Specs Summary

My Momentum Transend E+ Experience

Things I liked

– I believe it has been built with a minimalist approach, with just the minimum required elements to commute in an urban setting.
– Regarding the motor, it gave me enough power to take off from zero to the maximum speed (25 km/h) in less than five seconds (if using the highest assist level).
– I think the motor is more powerful than needed. I felt it reached maximum speed quickly, even when riding uphill.
– Around comfort, despite no front suspension, the thick tyres (27.5” x 2.35”) offered me enough shock absorption for bumps to feel relatively smooth.
– On the battery side, I think it offers more than an average commuter rider might need (the brand claims around 170 km in ideal conditions – flat terrain, not much headwind). I believe it is between 120 and 130 km.
– In terms of design, it was not the most attractive one to me because of its bulky appearance, yet I liked that the cabling installation was thoughtful, running inside the frame structure.

The opportunities

– Even though this model is intended for commuting purposes, it would be awesome if it was equipped with at least a set of lights.
– I also noticed the motor engagement was delayed every time I shifted the gears. This was not ideal when I was riding uphill, as I needed to stop pedalling for a second so the motor could connect again.
– I am not a big fan of gear systems where I need to twist my wrist. Aside from that, even though the Nexus 7 was designed using a grip shifter, some gears were a bit clunky when selecting the higher gears.
– For commuter purposes, it lands on the heavy side of this scale at 24 kg. What could it be when you add extra accessories?

This is something to consider for people who may want to load it up in an RV or bike rack.

– I found the Giant Ride Control One very hard to read on a bright day. I had to look at the controller for longer to determine my battery level and the assistance selected. I know a display can be added to this model, so maybe that could be a better option.

Other aspects to know

– The motor cuts out at 25 km/h. For the Australian e-bike regulations, the Transend E+ does well.

Enrich your knowledge: Electric Bike Laws – Know Them Before Riding.

– The rear hub gear system can become out of adjustment. To fix it, you have to put it in fourth gear and then look through the little window, as shown in the photo.

The two yellow lines should match; if not, you can adjust the barrel at the shifter point until the yellow lines match.

What Changed From The 2021 Version?

Not drastic changes were carried out in the 2022 version of the Transend E+; however, there are two (2) noticeable ones:

– Bottle cages are now available in the frame (lower tube).
– The stem is longer, which provides a more straight and relaxed body position while riding.

The Momentum Transend E+ Verdict

This commuter e-bike can offer value for money to anyone looking for a bike that can be reliable when riding uphill, with high battery capacity and some comfort.

If I were looking for a bike only for commuting purposes, the Momentum Transend E+ could be a good option. However, if you want more versatility riding in different terrains, it would be worth paying a little extra money to get a more equipped e-bike for other types of adventures.