Volt Pulse a winner for those who don’t want to raise heart rate
Rating: Four stars
The e-bike market has been rolling out some impressive-looking models for some time now, which can only be a good thing for increasing users of two wheels instead of four in the capital – but for the purists it’s not quite the same cycling kick.
Volt’s flagship e-bike Pulse – ironically named as there is little chance of yours ever raising while using it – is perfect for those who hate arriving anywhere sweaty or in need of a change of clothes, which is probably most people.
In fact there’s very little chance of getting out of breath at all, even going up hills.
The ease at which you can accelerate up to 15.5mph with just a couple of rotations on the pedals is impressive and removes that feeling of annoyance every time you are forced to stop by an errant motorist, as you can just as easily get back to where you were.
Other perks include a built-in Dutch-style rear wheel lock, a GPS tracker and unique key system in case of theft, as well as fixed lights so you never forget them again.
The control centre, a small screen fixed on the handlebars, is incredibly easy to use and allows the rider to click through speed settings.
Now for the negatives – the bike is heavy! Understandable with the motor and battery it is carrying but it means the top speed is around 18mph. That’s enough for some people but I’m sure I’m not alone in saying I want to be able to go faster than that.
The heaviness also means that if you need to carry it up a flight of stairs for whatever reason this will be a challenge – looking at you flat dwellers with no lifts.
Lastly, I thought this bike might change my mind about whether to join the growing ranks of the e-bikers, but if you truly enjoy the cycling experience, the exercise and the flexibility, the good and the bad, then this bike is not for you.
But those points aside, it is a great consideration for those who don’t normally cycle and are looking for a way in. It also chops those transport times across South London in half, such is the dire state of public transport in this half of the city.
Pictured top: The Volt Pulse is a great commuting option (Picture: Reece Chapman)
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