Based on what I have found, the Pendleton Somerby electric bike was one of the “best” selling commuter women’s e-bikes thus far in the UK. I guess the tipping point was its price, and it looks like a normal bike since it has the common aesthetics.
I think what makes it interesting is the slick style, clean colours, and the possibility of adding a front basket to carry the groceries.
Table of Contents
Some of Its Technicalities
– As I mentioned, it looks similar to a standard bike. Not many brands have been able to achieve this concept, but a few have, such as Orbea with the Vibe H30. However, the difference is clear when a battery pack is placed in the rear rack.
– From my test ride, I found the battery had a range capacity of up to 50 miles (80 km), which is perfect for cycling to work.
– Regarding the frame size, I found the brand offered a 16-inch or 19-inch size to suit most people between 140 and 185 cm.
– On the pedal assist level (PAS) side, this model offered me three (3) PAS levels, which is not the common standard of five PAS. However, I don’t think much more was needed as it was not built for speed.
– I think the motor (a 250-watt rear hub Bafang motor that can reach 15.5mph (24km/h) is a bit small for such a heavy bike. Even though this is the case, I was impressed that the torque (50Nm) was good enough to provide power for my pedalling.
– I was not expecting more than a speed sensor for a model that lands on the budget side. It was actually very content about how responsive the sensor was.
– Another attractive part was the mudguards that were included. They were sturdy and looked of good quality, providing a retro style.
– I liked the added comfort of the spring saddle. I’m sure the lack of front suspension won’t be much of an issue, regardless of its purpose of being for urban rides only (no off-road).
The Standout Features
– The Pendleton Somerby overall weight is around 48 pounds (21 kg), which I think is on the high end. I expected something around 17 kg, but I know the battery contributes largely to it.
– The saddle offered me a comfortable body position for upright riding, and the colour has a modern twist with brown faux leather handlebars.
– I was not so impressed with the Li-Ion Phylion battery (317Wh/8.8Ah capacity) location beneath the rear storage rack. The issue with this is that the tyres are too slim, so a speed bump and extra rear weight could cause the bike to rattle.
– In addition to the battery, it is water-resistant, which means it could get affected by water if exposed to excessive rain.
– The controller was also very simple, however intuitive to operate. Compared to other commuter electric bikes like the XDS e-Spresso S2, it is not the most sophisticated one.
– Another simple configuration was the braking system, with the use of Tektro V-Brakes. I honestly was hoping to see mechanical disc brakes, at least, as they are more efficient than the old-school braking systems.
I believe the brand wanted to keep the design of this model in a retro style.
– I believe the maximum recommended rider weight is around 264 pounds (119 kg), which is acceptable for many cyclists.
Other things I liked
– It has a two-year (2) electrical and one-year (1) component warranty.
– The frame and crank arm are made of aluminium alloy, which is durable and will last a long time.
– The low-step design made getting on and off the bike easy. Even the frame comes with a two-year (2) warranty.
– I had a comfortable ride with the ergonomic grips and flat-type handlebar in an upright position. This, in addition to a padded saddle, which could improve long rides.
– Although I think the tyres are too thin, they have low friction and a puncture-resistant rating (TPI of 30).
– The gears offered me a responsive and smooth ride.
Reasons not to Buy
– It is a bit long and bulky, making it less agile when weaving through traffic.
– The tyres are too narrow and can get jammed between road cracks if not careful. Furthermore, considering the added weight of the battery, there is a high risk of the rear tyre being damaged.
– Front or rear lights not included. Something very important nowadays for commuting.
– The battery may not be the best on the market. Many current users have complained about charging problems and responsiveness. Also, it is water resistant, so there is a high chance of damage if exposed to a lot of rain.
– From what I have seen, customer service is not the best. This is a very important factor every bike rider should have.
Remember, this budget electric bike will offer the minimum requirements for daily commuting. This means some of its parts could be of low quality and require replacement sooner than expected.
Is the Pendleton Somerby the Best Electric Bike for Women?
Just because you can pedal it as a standard bike or use pedal-assist makes it an acceptable commuter model.
Its features and design are positive, but after further information regarding the poor quality of its main components (e.g., battery), this is a big deal breaker for me.
If the design is what catches your attention, check the Faraday Cortland Review. However, if you want a more solid buy, read the Pegasus Premio Evo 10 e Bike Review.
Overall, I think the Pendleton Somerby Electric Bike has potential, but I would be steering away from it until all the basic elements are improved.
Images courtesy of Halfords
These are some additional items you can include for this e-bike
47 Comments
I have have my Pendleton since January and I love (loved) it.
It has been back to Halfords 3 times now as the bottom bracket keeps needing to be replaced. Halfords replace it then we have to take it back (25 mile round trip) For them to check.
Have just had a new bottom bracket fitted and will be taking it back for a check in December.
I think 4 trips to Halfords is more than enough.
Hi Guys,
I bought a Pendleton Sommerby e bike with shimano derailleur – its fabulous, Im having a ball, however the chain has got loose it keeps coming off. I had a look and it says just turn the derailleur screw clockwise to tighten the chain,. Everywhere I’ve looked says the derailleir screw is easy to see there’s a B beside it. Well, not on this bike ! In the name of god, can someone tell me which screw to tighten??
Ta
Isobel
Hi there. I got this bike the other day and I’m very happy with it so far but when I was charging the battery the instructions said “do not get wet”. This astounded me as it’s a bike and I live in Ireland where it rains regularly enough. I figured that maybe I just have to take the battery out and bring it with me. That I can manage. But when I enquired as to whether I can leave the bike outside in the rain, tied to a bike rack, I was told no, the bike cannot be left in the rain. Am I nuts for thinking that rain wouldn’t effect it? I don’t know of any sheltered bike racks in my entire area, or the wider Dublin area. Can someone help me? I’m not sure the Halfords staff are fully aware of the limitations of this bike Regarding weather. I’m not talking about sorting it outside overnight, I have a shed. But I would have expected to be able to park it out in the rain when I’m out and about on the bike. I’m very confused
Hi Louise,
I would be expecting that every element on an ebike is ok with a bit of rain (unless is DIY). I know there is a lot of complaints regarding the battery quality.
The Pendleton Somerby is budget electric bike so it may be the case their components could get easily affected too.
Hopefully other users can advise more.
Regards,
Matt.
Hi, I have just purchased a Pendleton electric bike and the battery is not charging properly, despite it being on overnight. The messenger bag that is the same brand is poorly made, and has such cheap clips that it has scratched the paintwork on the pannier rack. The bike and accessories cost over £1000, so I am hugely disappointed. Will be returning to the store for a refund today. Less than 24 hours and problems is a red flag.
Hi Allie,
thanks for sharing your experience. We have come across that many users reporting the poor quality of the Pendleton Somerby ebike parts.
We will be updating this review but what is more valuable here is what the users also mention.
Cheer.
Paul.
Hi Paul,
One of The technician got back to me and said the bike is ready for me, he said another technician went out on my bike for half an hour using all the mode settings and found nothing wrong with the bike. I told him I’m not happy because the battery drains too quickly it’s meant to go 40, 50 miles journey and after 2hours or 3 the red LED mode buttons on handlebar are on low setting so I have to hurry home just in case the battery dies. I also said I hardly use the assist mode button I only switch it on a hilly road then I switch off the on off button to save power, I hardly used the number 3 setting only to check if it works I also enquired about the LED battery indicator why aren’t they lighting up in sequence as stated in book. He said the book is generic. He said I had two options. I can take back the bike or get a refund. I’d like to go and rescue it but Sadly I have to go for the refund. It’s like he was talking about a different bike.
Any way, thanks for all your advice.
Irena
Hi please could you help me for some free advice?
I bought a Pendleton Somerby e bike a week ago. My question is the battery LED lights do not light up in sequence when I charge the battery it remains lit only on one 20% light throughout charging time. But in the manual it states LED lights light in sequence when charging. I told them that at Halfords and they said it doesn’t always apply to the bike. So if that’s the case why is it in the manual, puzzled. ? Also my bike battery is draining too quickly.
I rode out for two hours fully charged, used the 1st mode up some average hilly road and maybe mode 2 and soon as it assisted me I switch it off to save on battery. I thought these bikes can range from 40 to 50 miles in journey. i paid a lot of money for this bike. I have been in Halfords twice now complaining about the battery. The first time was less than 24 hours. After I got it.The bike is back in Halfords now they are charging the battery at this moment. They said they will take the bike for a test run. I don’t like the idea of that. ( but I was too stupid to say that at the time) The roads are not smooth as they used to be. The bike might get damaged, more problems might occur and I will be complaining again for something else going wrong, it’s not like test driving a car, bikes are more delicate. My husband says I’m being unreasonable. I Think I asked Halfords for a new battery, new bike or refund but I got distracted by assistance questions. Yes the bike is lovely and I felt so proud when I first rode it, I was smiling all the way home. Why does the bike need to be fixed when it was faulty in the first place am I not untitled to a new battery or bike or a refund? I hate causing a fuss ,it’s not in my nature but I feel I’m being fogged off. I would be very grateful for some helpful advice as Soon as possible.I have to go back to Halfords again tomorrow, dreading it. Thank you. Irena
Hi Irena, sorry to hear the bike is showing problems so soon.
Having the battery with problems at the start means problems all the time (unless is an easy fix). I would suggest to check on the warranty policy regarding parts. My understanding is that the battery has a 2 years warranty but not quite certain about the extend (repair (ironic though) or changed?).
Paul.
Hi Paul, thank you for your advice and getting back to me so soon. My bike is still in Halfords it has been fully charged and the technician will ride it out tomorrow for 20 minutes?, He couldn’t do it today because it was raining. If they say it’s the battery ( because it is draining so quickly) would a new battery solve this problem? Or should I ask for my refund?
And I mentioned the LED display not lighting up in sequence when charging. Would you know if the Pendleton Somerby e bikes light up in sequence as stated in the owner’s manual? Looking foreword your reply.
Thank you
Irena
Hi Irena, no problem at all.
If the battery is faulty, they should replace it and should have no further issues. I would ask for a refund if the new one is also faulty.
If the manual says the LED indicators should go in sequence and the old battery was not doing that, it is an indication that something was not right.
Let’s see what the technician says. Lastly, keep in mind that my advice won’t change their mind as they are the manufacturer.
Regards,
Paul.
Hi Irena
Did you sort this out? i bought the Pendleton Somerby yesterday and have the same problem, only 20% showing on the battery that has been on charge over night, yet it shows full charge on the gauge on the bike handlebars. is that how it is and the manual is incorrect or or are the chargers faulty?
Thanks
Lindsay
I have just bought the bike and am unable to pull out the battery .Only my son in law had the strength to pull it out.The assistant at Halfords told me it had to be ‘yanked’ out and pushed hard to get it in again.I feel this will damage the terminals in time.Has anyone else had this problem?
Hi Margaret, thanks for sharing.
It may be the case the battery terminals get damaged if pushing too hard. Technically the battery should be secure in a good way.
Regards,
Paul
I am thinking about buying a Somerby, but after these reviews of a duff battery, I’m beginning to think about not buying this bike.
Hi Tony,
fair enough to take that decision. To be honest, there are better options to look at.
Regards,
Paul.
Hello. My Wife recently bought one of the bikes from Halfords. It is not due for its 6 week service/check until mid-August. However, having only been used for 3 weeks to date to work and back (6 miles), on around 10 occasions, the battery was found to be flat on one return trip and following a full re-charge, the ‘high’ indicator LED now flashes, with no power assist. It’s frustrating as she works at the QMC Nottingham and does not want to use a medi-link bus or have to pay for parking. For an investment of £999 in a bike that after only 3 or 4 weeks is proving inefficient, is disappointing.
Can anybody help?
Hi. I bought my bike just before COVID for using with my caravan holidays, so it has not been ridden much. Now the front sprocket has bent and is in Halfords for repair. Only problem is that for nearly 3 weeks they have been waiting for the part. Does it need to be a bike specific part, could they not source a generic one? This is now the time I want to ride the bike and am not able to. very disappointed, not a good advert for the bike!!
Hi Ann, hope you are doing well and sorry to hear the sprocket got damaged.
If your ebike is at Halfords already, I would suggest to wait for them to fix it. It is not a good idea to replace a part by yourself if the bike is still under warranty. I know it is frustrating but they will install the right part. I would also suggest to ask for a general check-up on the remaining elements as a courtesy for waiting this long.
Regards,
Paul.
I took my bike out of the garage, having never being able to ride it cos old knee arthritis. It needed tyres pumped(done) and battery charged. Gave it to my daughter and battery wouldn’t charge. No residual either. How do we get it charged or do I need to buy new battery, from where and how much? Thanks Wendy
Hi Wendy, thanks for your question.
If the e-bike has been stored for some time, it could be the case that the battery has lost the capacity of storing energy and is not working anymore.
Check our ebike batteries guide for more details.
Couple of things I would do:
1- Check if the controller is registering power.
2- Get a Voltmeter or a multimeter and see if there is any volts readings. I would take the bike to the nearest bike shop (where ebikes are sold) as they should have this tools. If not working, you can get a new battery directly from them or from Halfords (ideally).
Cheers.
Matt.
Hi
Do you know of a bike rack that would take this 22kg bike on a ford fiesta without use of a tow bar?
Thanks!
Hi Gail, thanks for messaging.
The best answer for that is at a bike shop. Nevertheless, I know Halfords also sells rear mounted bike racks for up to 25kg loads. Lastly, remember that the battery can be removed so it will reduce the overall weight (approx 3 kgs).
Cheers,
Matt.
The spring in the saddle broke after riding over a pothole. I can’t find the option to purchase a replacement saddle or spring at Halfords. Do you know where I can get them?
Hi Estelle,
I would suggest to contact Halfords and find the best solution (therefore you keep your branded saddle). Alternatively, I would suggest to visit your nearest bike shop to replace the saddle, rather than the spring (maybe the other spring got affected too).
Check this page to find out more about their repair service: https://www.halfords.com/bikes/services/halfords-bike-repairs.html
Regards,
Paul.
I do hope spare parts are available! Or alternative spare parts.
After I bought a Pendleton Somerby, in 2019, in the UK, for £500 (it was a test-bike) I returned to Holland in March 2020.
During the transport of the bike, the keys of the battery were lost. When I called Halfords UK for a replacement of the keys, I was told that no spare parts were present, and that the production of this e-bike has stopped.
The hardest part while using this bike, for me, is that it’s rather heavy.
Not using the motor means having to move all that weight forward, and that’s somehow not well thought of by the designer.
My E-bike is 5 years old, and I’m looking forward to a smaller, lighter E-bike, in a few years time, that is comfortable to use as much with or without motor-aid.
Now, I’ve got to let my battery revised, if keys are going with it 🤔 Or I’ll have to buy a new battery with keys. Fingers crossed I’l
By the way, I’ve seldom used my E-bike in the UK, because of the potholes! 🤨
Hi
I have a Pendleton Somerby electric bike and would like to get a basket for the front but the Pendleton version sold by Halfords says it is not suitable for the electric version of the bike – is there any version of the basket that is suitable?
Thanks
Hi Sarah,
I’m surprised Halfords has no basket alternatives for an ebike and yes, it seems like the one offered is not suitable for the front fork (the design is slightly different).
You have two (2) alternatives:
1) Get a front rack that can be attached directly to the wheel axle and the handle bar. See here: Wald 135 Front Handlebar Bike Basket as a reference.
2) Use the rear rack instead. See alternative here for reference: Tremont Rear Cargo Basket
My best advise is to use the rear rack instead since there is more security and balance when riding.
Lastly, since every rack dimensions are variable, I would suggest to visit a local bike store and see if they have a suitable front rack for the Pendleton Somerby electric bike.
Regards,
Paul.
You can use the Kilckfix bracket and baskets on the electric bike. I have put this on my wife’s bike and the brackets extends forwards so no problems with cables
I have just bought this è bike and Halfords gave us the wicker basket and two additional screws for the front fork . Basket has fitted perfectly. We did query this with Halfords and they said they have to update their website which states “ this basket is unsuitable for the e bike. Hope this is helpful
Hi Lynn,
thanks for the updated info.
Regards,
Matt
I bought the Pendleton wicker effect basket with my Somerby ebike and it was fitted by Halford with no problems.
Hi
I am new to the electric bike and this is my first bike for about 20 years and I bought to get me to and from work during covid.
I have the opposite of most people. The battery is fine, however when I switch the battery off, it is just not usable as a normal bike. There’s no resistance on the pedals at all. The pedals just spin and spin and get me nowhere! My little legs are going so fast and just doesn’t move. Am I doing something wrong or is there something wrong with the bike.
Thanks
Hi Emma,
that is odd. Wondering if there is an issue with the freewheel system, but works fine when the battery is used?
Mmmm, another one back to Halfords?
Matt.
HI I purchased a Pendleton somerby bike from Halfords . It was delivered yesterday. went out for ride after making sure battery fully charged. The display went off after v15 mins and the e bike became a normal bike. Please could you advise what I can do to rectify the problem..Am very disappointed as was looking forward to the freedom of cycling during this awful Covid crisis…I have checked all connections and battery.
Regards
Susan Sands
Hi Susan,
thanks for your message. The ebike will operate as a standard bike when the controller is not connected. It could be a faulty controller or a poor connection at the controller end.
Two things I would do:
1) Check the connections at the controller end. If all ok,
2) Contact Halfords for a replacement (controller). There could be an internal problem.
In the meantime, I know this is not what you want but you can remove the battery (to reduce overall weight) and ride the bike to avoid public transport.
I’ll investigate further to find more info.
Regards,
Matt.
I have the 19inch mint green Pendleton Somerby electric bike, I only bought it at the end of October 2019, so it is not even 6 months old, but I have lost track of how many things have gone wrong with it. I have had the brakes sorted now, 3 times, I have had in total 8 spokes break on the back wheel, a clicking noise when I pedal, which has already had a bolt replaced in the crank, after it was only 3 months old, that’s started up again, clicking when I pedal. Numerous punctures (always the back wheel)
Halfords have been so unhelpful, seemingly there is a lifetime service for the bike, but you have to get it to the shop, my nearest one is 9 miles away, which wouldn’t be a problem, but at the time, the bike was not rideable. I bought this bike to commute to work, on the (very few) occasions it’s been roadworthy, it’s a pleasure to ride, but I initially purchased this to save money (I don’t drive) but apart from the stress of the numerous problems, I have paid out £68 in 2 visits to my local bike store.
Totally disappointed, and am thinking of seeing if my credit card company would suggest I get my £742 back!
Hi Sharon,
sorry to hear the Pendleton Soberby ebike is showing up problems so early. It is normal to have some wear in any element, and more frequently, depending on the usage and how aggressive is the riding. What is the bike shop suggesting regarding these issues? Just surprise that even after they change either the damage or worn parts, it is still causing problems.
I would also ask for a refund as long as is easy to show the problems are caused by the quality of the elements.
Cheers.
Paul.
I have a Pendelton e bike which has been working well, except struggling up some of the hills… however for some reason the electrics appear to have stopped working and i am wondering if anyone can help me with this. It appears, on occasions to surge back but then it stops again…. I wanted to get it looked at but obviously at this time, with Covid 19 on our door steps, I am unable to get it resolved…. can anyone suggest what I might be able to do to get it working again? Has anyone else had this issue?
Hi Tracey, thanks for your message.
In order to give the best possible advise, with “electrics” what are you referring to (battery, motor)? Nevertheless, based on what you’re mentioning, it could be that the battery is not providing power to the network.
This could be related to a bad battery connection. Couple of things that can be done:
1. Check the battery is actually sitting steady and secured.
2. Check the electronic contact points are in good conditions and clean.
3. Check any visible / exposed cables that could’ve been damaged during transport or any other event.
If that seems to be ok, then there may be some internal issues with the battery and might need replacement. Before this to happen, place check with a local bike store for more advise.
Hope this help.
Cheers.
Paul.
Tracey the same thing has happened to me. I bought the bike in September. It was great until yesterday when I started having difficulty up hill. The power surges back in but then fails again. I have taken it back to Halfords.
Hi I ordered a Pendleton bike but could not take it home due to being to big I need a 16inch frame and not a 17inch do you have such a lovely bike in mint green please
Hi Rebecca,
it is unfortunate you ended up with a 17″ frame. I know there is a 16″ available but you might need to work it out with your bike dealer. As regards to the color, I haven’t seen a mint green option.
Cheers,
Matt.
I have a Pendleton Somerby Electric Bike purchased from Halfords. It’s a great looking bike and great to use. The only problem is the Bafang motor system built in to the rear wheel. I had problems with it within the year for sometime and took a while to find it by Halfords. When it was found and replaced now only month later it has happened again and will cost £190 to replace. I am most disappointed with the poor quality and the warranty as it should be 2 years cover, similar to the electrics system, as you need this for the bike to work. For instance, I nearly fell off because the motor stopped and cars were on the road at the time; it was very scary as you don’t know it will happen until it does. The motor is like when the chain fells off and you can’t peddle but the chain had not fallen off. I really would not recommend this bike just for that reason. Apart from that it’s great. But I’m very disappointed in the quality of this part and the warranty time of it.
Hi Lorraine, thanks for sharing with the community.
Certainly the issue that you are facing is not what you would expect from a Bafang electric bike motor. This brand is recognized and their support is good. Now, you said Halfords changed the motor but you still faced the same problem. Wondering if there is something else that is causing the motor to malfunction and subsequently break down over time (something with the electrics or the battery voltage/power?). I would advise to contact Bafang directly (https://www.bafang-e.com/en/oem-area/service/contact/) to see if they can suggest a solution in this case (considering this is the brand that manufactured the motor, no Halfords).
Overall, I think the Pendleton e-bike is great aside from the issue you are facing with the motor.
Cheers.
Mat.
Hi. Reading your post, it sounds very much like the problem I currently have. When the battery is on, sometimes the pedals just spin round like it’s lost connection. The only way to move is to keep the battery on and pedal. It just happens without warning. Halfords were excellent and replaced the battery after I’d had the bike for only a few months but now it’s happening again, 2 years down the line. It’s a shame because I love my bike.
I have the same problem as Louise. We purchased my bike 3 years ago and had it brought to France. I have been very happy with it. Up until a few weeks ago had no problems. Now it is very hit and miss. Sometimes I go out and it works fine. Other times I’m not sure if I am going to make it home. Unfortunately living in France I don’t have access to a Halfords and with Covid, I don’t know when we will be able to get back to the UK. Being an English bike, would I be able to get it repaired in France?