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Hey there, fellow e-bike enthusiasts! It’s me, the guy you’ve seen zipping around on the latest e-bikes on YouTube. Today, I will share my thoughts in our Velotric T1 Review. Now, before you get your gears in a twist, let me tell you straight up – this e-bike isn’t for me. But, it might just be the perfect ride for you. So, buckle up, and let’s dive into this review!
Be sure to check out one of our favorite eBikes, the Velotric Discover 2.
This bike is all business, in the best possible way. Made from high-quality materials, this is more of a high-quality bicycle with some extra boost than an eBike.
The least e-Bikey eBike we’ve tested
First things first, the Velotric T1 is the least e-bikey e-bike I’ve ever tested. I know, I know, you’re probably thinking, “What the heck does that even mean?”
Well, let me put it this way: if the eBike world was a superhero movie, the Velotric T1 would be Clark Kent. It’s got all the superpowers, but it’s dressed up to look like your average Joe.
This e-bike is a classic road bike that weighs in at a mere 36 pounds. I mean, I could lift this thing with one hand, no sweat.
It’s got no screen for the bike computer, no visible battery, and no real wires hanging out, except for the brake wires.
It’s like Velotric took everything they knew about electric bikes, tossed it out the window, and started from scratch. The result? A beast of an e-bike, not in a big and brawny way, but in a sleek, stealthy, undercover superhero kind of way.
Don’t miss our Velotric Promo Code or Velotric Packer 1 Review.
What makes the T1 Unique
Besides the name, the T1, what makes this electric bike stand out from the rest.
Also, for clarity, the Velotric T1 was called the Velotric Thunder for a period of time. It’s not just called the T1.
Thumbprint Sensor
Now, let’s talk about what makes this e-bike unique. For starters, it’s got a thumbprint sensor. Yes, you read that correctly. A thumbprint sensor.
You put your thumb on it, and it recognizes you. It also shows you what pedal assist level you’re in thanks to the little light guide below. Pretty cool, right? But wait, there’s more.
Torque Sensor
This e-bike also has a torque sensor, which makes it feel like you have superhuman legs. It matches exactly what you push on it, giving you that extra oomph when you need it.
But here’s the kicker: the Velotric T1 doesn’t have a throttle. I know, it’s like a superhero without a cape. But that’s what makes this e-bike perfect for those of you who want to feel like you’re actually riding a bike, not a motorcycle. If you want to feel the wind in your hair, the burn in your legs, and the thrill of the ride, this e-bike is for you.
The App
Now, let’s talk about the app. Yes, there’s an app. You can use it to check your mileage, track your e-bike, and even update the firmware on the bike.
But here’s the best part: you don’t need the app to use the bike. You can simply power it on and use the thumbprint sensor for different pedal assist levels. It’s like having your cake and eating it too.
What we loved about the Velotric T1
There’s a lot to love about the T1. But the most noticeable is the riding experience.
The Ride Experience
One common criticism I get from people that don’t ride eBikes a lot, is they feel like the they are riding more of a motorcycle than a bike.
I get it. It is a different sensation. But that’s also like saying, “I don’t like cars because they don’t feel like a horse.” Also, a very true statement.
But here’s what the Velotric T1 feels like to ride: it’s like you are riding a regular street bike, but your legs have super-human powers.
Why? That’s thanks to the torque sensor. It gives you a boost when you need it, and it feels like you are just cruising uphill with ease – no matter the grade. Torque Sensors take the power you are putting on the pedals and amplify it.
That’s the best way I can describe it. Like riding a regular bike, only better.
The riding modes
The unique riding modes allow you to tap into the smart features of the bike and the five pedal assist levels.
The app allows you to also increase the top speed from a top speed of 20 MPH to a top speed of 25 MPH.
The unique design
What’s funny about the unique and ground-breaking design is the fact that it doesn’t look groundbreaking at all. It looks like a normal bike, and that’s the whole point.
It is tough to create an electric bike that doesn’t look electric. That’s not a small feat and frankly, I think Velotric killed it on this one.
From no exposed wires (except for brake wiring) to the 100% integrated battery design, Velotric did everything they could to make this look like a high-end road bike.
The bike also comes in some great colors, like Frozen Blue and Crystal Black.
Also, be sure to check out our ultimate eBike Guide, our Velotric Discover 1 Review, Velotric Nomad 1 Review and Velotric Promo Codes.
Built-In GPS and Tracking
I tested out the Velotric T1, but there is also the Velotric T1ST – which is a bit different in a couple of ways.
The T1 comes with GPS tracking, not found in other eBikes.
However, I love the fact the bike will send you push notifications to your phone whenever the bike moves and you aren’t on it (Velotric calls this an anti-theft alert). The T1 uses an eSIM card (think cell phones) to reach
Find My Technology
In April 2021, Apple decided to share the love and opened up its ‘Apple Find My’ tracking network to the creators of other cool tech. What’s that mean for you? Well, now you can hunt down many of your non-Apple gizmos just as easily as you track down your Apple devices – and you don’t even need an AirTag to do it!
Velotric decided to integrate into Find My technology, which is perfect for the Apple nut that I am!
While I didn’t get to test out the T1 ST, I just got the new Velotric Packer and Velotric Go, which both feature Find My Technology. Pretty cool!
The Weight
I don’t know how Velotric did it, but they managed to make this electric bike only 36 pounds.
Seriously. That’s lighter than many non-electric eBikes in the world and pretty impressive.
The Components
Velotric looked at the T1 and decided, “Stock components aren’t good enough.” So, they developed their own drive system, called the Velopower E35+.
They say they E35 Drive System is: “A smart sophisticated drive system that delivers a silent and smooth performance, enhancing the natural riding experience.”
I’d have to agree.
Also, small touches like the higher-end hydraulic disc brakes make this bike much better quality than others.
The Range
As I’ve mentioned in other eBike Reviews, all eBikes have a technically unlimited range – as long as your legs do the work.
But in this case, the lightweight design of the T1 makes the range even more unlimited. Velotric advertises a 70 Mile Range, which is unheard of. There’s no way that a heavier eBike, with a throttle, would be able to go that far.
The lightweight design makes this bike have such a great overall range.
What I didn’t love about the Velotric T1
While there’s a lot to love about the T1, there’s a couple of things I didn’t love.
The app
I just don’t like using the App for any eBike, not just the T1. The good news is that you don’t need the app, except to set up the electric bike.
Of course, Velotric did this to avoid having a screen (which a screen would be considered faux-pas in “real bicycle” world, of course).
We also have very limited cell service in all of Fort Collins, CO (no one wants a cell tower in their backyard), which probably contributed to some of the small issues I had with the App.
No Throttle
The absence of a throttle on the Velotric T1? I totally get where they’re coming from. There are loads of power-packed eBikes out there that are throttle-ready.
But, you know me. I’ve got a soft spot for eBikes with throttles. It’s just how I roll, even though it doesn’t quite gel with this model’s design approach.
Where did I feel the throttle drought the most? Where did I miss the throttle the most? Those hectic street crossings. It’s not a total deal-breaker, mind you, but it’s not exactly my cup of tea either.
Who is the T1 for?
So, who is this e-bike for? Well, it’s for someone who wants a bike that still feels like a bike. Someone who doesn’t want a throttle or an overly aggressive pedal assist. Someone who wants to feel one with the road and still control everything about what they’re doing. If that sounds like you, then the Velotric T1 might just be your perfect ride.
If you want an eBike that feels like a regular bicycle, check out this eBike.
If you are the kind of person that wants to do longer distances, but need just a little boost, then this might be a great choice. At a lower power-assist level, the T1 has a great range overall.
It may also be perfect if you just want to use pedal assist to handle hilly terrain (just make sure it’s paved).
But remember, there’s no such thing as a perfect e-bike. There’s only the perfect e-bike for you.
Who is the T1 NOT for?
That’s pretty simple: it’s NOT for someone who wants more of an eBike and less of a regular bike.
If you want a throttle, pass on this bike.
If you want a dedicated screen, pass on this eBike.
If you want something to go offroading in, pass on this eBike.
In fact, Velotric makes two of our favorite eBikes we’ve tested: the Velotric Discover 1 and the Nomad 1. They are both great and are everything the T1 is, and vice versa.
For a cheaper alternative, check out the Propella S7 Review.
Velotric T1 Review: Let’s talk about price
The Velotric T1, priced at $1,799 is the pricier model between the T1 and T1 ST. The T1 fits pretty square in the middle of the price ranges that we’ve tested.
If you are a serious cyclist, you know the value of higher-end components. The direct-to-consumer model Velotric and other companies depend on allows the bike to be drastically less expensive than if you went to a dealer.
So, if you’re a serious rider that values higher-end components, then this eBike might be right for you.
Assembly of the Velotric T1
Assembly of the T1 was a breeze, thanks to the simple controls, no external wires and included tools.
The sleek design also makes it easier to assemble. While it doesn’t come fully assembled, it comes about 90% assembled and you just need to do a couple of things to get it going.
The Bottom Line on the Velotric T1
While the Velotric T1 isn’t my perfect eBike soulmate, it’s still a pretty awesome ride. With its lightweight build, integrated design, and no-throttle style, it’s a great option for someone who wants an eBike that still has the feel of a regular bike.
This bike is all business, in the best possible way. Made from high-quality materials, this is more of a high-quality bicycle with some extra boost than an eBike.
If you want to try something different from the standard throttle/screen setup most eBikes offer, then this might be just the ticket!
It might not have all the bells and whistles of other more techy e-bikes on the market (more of an understated design), but what it does have is a unique twist on classic road bike design that makes riding an electric bike feel like you’re just riding your regular street bike – only with superpowers!
So if you’re looking for an e-bike experience without any high-tech distractions or frills — then this could be your perfect match. Go give it a spin and see for yourself!