Trek Verve+ e-bike review: Is it for you?

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The Trek Verve+ is an e-bicycle that was built with the idea of giving the rider the most enjoyable and convenient commute.

A solid aluminum frame offers great convenience as you can ride fast enough to reduce commute time significantly.

On the cost side, I believe it is an affordable electric bike, even though it has superior components.

For this reason, most users love it because it still comes with many features that make it excellent value for money.

However, would you think the same?

The above question helped the brand to work on many improvements. As a result, they recently launched a new model with the Trek Verve+ 2. Read our review to see what changes were made.

BENEFITS

– Excellent frame design comes in three (3) color options.

– Comfortable thanks to its ergonomic saddle.

– It has good maneuverability as the handlebar curves towards the rider’s body.

– Lights are always on for the rider’s safety, including daytime.

– Available in a variety of sizes, from 15 to 17″ frame, therefore for 154 cm to 187 cm people tall.

THINGS THAT CAN BE CONSIDERED

– It has no front suspension.

– The headlight is mounted on the frame (steering tube), and thus it only illuminates straight ahead.

– The control display is a bit too small, so it may be hard to read some of its metrics.

– The battery may drain faster with the lights on all the time.

– Despite having an aluminum frame, it is still considered heavy at 23 kg.

Pedal Assist System

This electric bike is classed among Pedelecs, as its power assist is limited to 15 mph (25 km/h). This is where the motor stops providing power, therefore, it is within the electric bike legislation for all countries. Of course, this doesn’t limit you from riding faster, especially if you’re going downhill.

I was very satisfied with their assistance efficiency of the motor when using PAS 1. I was not expecting less, of course, because Bosch has always pride in their motor efficiency and torque power. In addition, it felt like a smooth push after having the first tyre spin when the motor was activated. There was not much of a difference when using PAS 5, but considering its speed limitation, I don’t think you need such a massive difference between pedal levels.

Bosch 250W Mid-Drive Motor

One of the significant features of the Verve + is its power system, which is fitted with a 250W mid-drive motor built by Bosch.

Mid-drive motors have a significant advantage, as they provide a good balance and usually tremendous torque to go uphill.

Although the Bosch Active Line motor is smaller than the average, it still performs efficiently. 

I have to say that the motor may not be the latest built by the brand, so it will be heavier than newer versions.

Despite the above, its efficiency provides very smooth rides and sufficient support with a torque of 40 Nm. I’m surprised that this motor is sitting on the lower range for torque performance however, it was good enough when ride riding on flat terrain.

Unfortunately, this torque rating is not gonna be the best when climbing hills, so if this is the case, then the Trek Super Commuter +9 would be a better fit for you.

Read More: Electric Motor Bike Guide for Beginners.

Bosch Li-Ion Battery

Another vital part of the power system is the Bosch lithium-ion battery. Lithium-ion batteries are superior because they have a long lifespan, with 1000+ cycles before they need replacement.

Read More: eBike Batteries – The Beginner’s Guide

The 300Wh battery found in this Trek model is not the highest one on the market either, but it is decent enough to last for a few years.

A thing to consider here is the battery not being waterproof. This could be potentially an issue if you live in a region where there is constant rain.

On the design side, it sits on the down tube, which doesn’t make it look like the most beautiful model, but it has a lot of conveniences to detach it from the frame.

But not everything is bad about this battery; it actually charges between three and four hours from fully empty. That is actually convenient if you don’t have enough time but need enough power for your next ride.

Remember that the headlights were configured to be on constantly, so ensure the battery has enough energy for the entire trip. Lastly, it can provide a range between 70 and 80 km if you use PAS 1.

The Controller System

Bosch has also reliable controllers to operate electric bikes. In this case, the Verve+ is controlled by the Purion version, which is a minimal device providing basic metrics. Although it comes from a good manufacturer, I believe the controller is a little bit smaller than I would like making it hard to read some of the parameters.

Even though that is my personal opinion, it shows an essential metric, and that is the battery range.

The brakes and drivetrain

The Trek Verve+ is fitted with quality Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. Even though the rotors are 160 mm, this is more than enough power for a bike that is not going to travel too fast, and it is in the mid-range weight. Though this is the case I was expecting a little bit better from the brand.

The Trek Verve+ lighting system

A great feature of the Verve plus is the lighting system designed to guarantee safety during the day and night.

This bike was configured so that the light would switch on automatically. From what we know, it happens when the motor is engaged. In addition, the lights were designed to stay on continuously when you are riding. The difference between them is that the front headlight constantly illuminates, whereas the rear light flashes.

Trek designed the lights to be on throughout, including in the daytime, for the rider’s safety.

Design and Comfort

For the liking of many potential buyers, Trek customized the frame suitable for men and women. When compared to other commuter electric bikes like the Vyron Cumulus Pro, I think it is much more appealing and statically pleasing.

The Bontrager commuter tires

As a commuter e-bike, the tires needed to provide good grip and great rolling features. For this reason, the manufacturer decided to use the quality of Bontrager tires. In this case, 27″ by 2.1″ tires were used.

Looking at the inside elements, a puncture protective layer helps to reduce the occurrence of flat tires during cycling, however, this one fully prevents this issue.

The only thing that I would’ve loved from Trek was having a slightly stronger rear rim as it looked a little bit thin, which makes it looks a bit weak.

Read More: Electric Bike Tires Buying Guide.

Suspension and comfy seat

Your comfort is guaranteed by the wide leather saddle of the Verve+.

Further, this electric bicycle has a suspension seat post and adjustable stem that allows you to alter its height to a more comfortable level.

This is an awesome feature because not many e-bikes offer these.

Available sizes

Trek has ensured that most of the riders can find the right size. Having said that, these are the measurements:

SMALL	MEDIUM	LARGE
154.0 – 167.0 cm 5’0.6″ – 5’5.7	164.0 – 177.0 cm 5’4.6″ – 5’9.7″	174.0 – 187.0 cm 5’8.5 – 6’1.6″

 Should you Buy this Trek eBike?

Electric bikes make riding not only convenient but also so much fun. This model can work perfectly for you if you are looking for a durable, smooth-running, and efficient machine.

What I like most about it is the inclusion of the suspension in the seat post. I don’t think it is the best quality, but there is something there, at least.

On the upside, the motor, the battery, and the controller were built by reliable manufacturers.

Although it comes with almost all the gadgets, you might have to make a few additions, such as getting a rear rack to carry stuff.

All in all, I think the Trek Verve+ is an excellent investment for people looking for a sturdy and reliable low-step electric commuter bike.

All Images courtesy of Trek

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