Velotric T1: A Feature-Packed & Fun Electric Bike Review

The Velotric T1 electric bike combines an ultra-lightweight aluminum frame with a smooth pedal-assist motor and handy tech features. 

I closely reviewed and tested the ride to get the complete details on the T1’s performance, features, ride comfort, and more. Here’s an in-depth look at this high-tech electric bike.

Lightweight Build Quality With Strong Components

Tipping the scales at only 36 pounds, the T1 weighs substantially less than most electric bikes. The lightweight aluminum frame with an integrated 10Ah battery keeps weight low while providing rigidity. While compact, the T1 doesn’t skimp on components:

Specification

• 700x38c puncture-resistant Pirelli Scorpion tires provide grip and stability
• Tektro hydraulic disc brakes offer ample stopping power from the 160mm rotors
• The 8-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain provides a good gear range
• 350W geared hub motor generates up to 600W of peak power

The combination of a featherweight frame and legit components like quality brakes and a drivetrain makes the T1 feel agile and responsive. 

It handles tight turns with ease and accelerates rapidly when you put some muscle into your pedal stroke. The lightweight build supports the bike’s goal of providing exercise along with an electric assist.

5 Power Levels With Multiple Ride Modes

The T1 features a torque sensor that delivers an electric boost smoothly based on how much force you apply to the pedals. This helps encourage pedaling and provides electric assistance naturally. 

You control the intensity of assist through 5 power levels spanning from ECO up to Turbo mode:

• ECO – Lower assist for max range
• Tour – Medium-level assist
• Normal – Balanced assist level
• Sport – High level of electric boost
• Turbo – Maximum assist, fast acceleration

In addition, you can select from multiple overall ride modes that optimize assist for different situations:

• City – Smoothest assists good for roads and paths
• Adventure – More torque for trails and gravel
• Max – Highest power for maximum speed

The power levels and ride modes are easily selectable on the display mounted in the center of the handlebars. You can also pair it with the Velotric smartphone app for expanded settings control.

Built-In Tech Provides Convenience and Security

Beyond its pedal-assist capabilities, the T1 packs some clever tech features that enhance functionality:

• Fingerprint unlock – Scan your fingerprint to power on the bike, no keys are required. More convenient than fumbling for keys and enhances security.
• Theft tracking – If the parked bike moves without connecting to your phone via Bluetooth, you get a notification alerting you of potential theft.
• Integrated phone mount – Automatically grips your phone tightly and features integrated USB charging while riding.
• Automatic lighting – Headlight and taillight turn on/off automatically by sensing ambient light conditions. Helpful safety feature.

The fingerprint unlock is a truly handy feature. Just scan your finger on the sensor integrated into the frame and the bike powers up, ready to ride. Overall the tech integration sets the T1 apart from most e-bikes focused solely on pedal assist.

Tested Range and Hill Climbing Ability

To thoroughly test the T1’s capabilities, we went on an 18-mile ride with frequent use of the highest assist levels. This consumed about 65% of the 10Ah battery capacity.

Based on the battery usage over 18 miles, the estimated real-world range is 25-30 miles using maximum electric assist. More modest power settings would likely achieve the claimed 70-mile maximum range.

Weighing in at just 36 pounds, this nimble e-bike provides an electric boost of up to 20 mph while still delivering an enjoyable, exercise-filled ride.

The 350W rear-geared hub motor provides ample torque and hill-climbing ability. On moderate inclines, the T1 tackles hills well in lower gears. Steeper climbs require effort from the rider to force the torque sensor to deliver full power. The motor won’t propel you up mountains using throttle alone but provides solid assist when you pitch in.

Overall the power and range ratings seem appropriate for a bike in this compact, lightweight category. It provides generous assistance while still encouraging pedaling effort.

Agile Handling and Quality Parts Enhance the Ride

Weighing just 36 pounds, the T1 feels nimble, quick, and responsive when navigating roads or trails. 

The lightweight aluminum frame paired with properly inflated road tires makes the bike feel fast and maneuverable. It conquers tight turns with ease and wants to accelerate rapidly when you get on the pedals.

The quality name-brand components also enhance the riding experience. The Tektro hydraulic disc brakes deliver confident stopping power from the dual 160mm rotors. And the 8-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain provides a good gear range to tackle both inclines and high speeds.

The torque sensor and 5 levels of pedal assist encourage you to actively pedal and enjoy the ride. Just relying on the throttle for acceleration often leads to a less satisfying experience. 

The T1 promotes pedaling hard which helps increase speed and range while also getting your heart pumping.

Who Should Consider the T1?

The Velotric T1 hits a nice sweet spot between power and portability. Here are some key factors to consider about its strengths:

• The featherweight 36-pound frame makes it easy to maneuver and carry upstairs or onto public transportation
• Provides zippy acceleration and lively handling that’s fun on roads, paths, and trails
• A real-world range of 25-30 miles allows lengthy rides by supplementing pedaling with an electric boost
• Ideal for riders looking to get exercise while riding faster and extending their range beyond non-electric bikes
• Integrated tech features add unique functionality not found on most e-bikes

The bottom line: If you want a lightweight e-bike that’s fun to ride and doesn’t weigh a ton, the T1 is a great choice. It encourages pedaling effort while providing electric assist to ride faster and farther.

Top Pros and Cons of the T1

Fun, Maneuverable Ride

With its lightweight build and quality parts, the Velotric T1 Electric Bike provides an enjoyable riding experience. It feels nimble and fast thanks to the aluminum frame and properly inflated road tires. The torque sensor and pedal assist encourage you to pedal and enjoy the ride.

Overall, T1 hits a nice sweet spot between power and portability. It provides a lively ride while making longer distances or hills easier to handle. The high-tech features add functionality and security. If you want an e-bike that’s fun to ride and doesn’t weigh a ton, the T1 is a great choice.