The Thunder 1FT from fifth Wheel is a $1,399 folding full suspension fats tire electrical bike that claims it could possibly deal with all terrains. With nice mountain biking trails close by, I naturally wished to see simply how nicely it performs off-road and what parts contribute to reaching that engaging worth level.

Proper out of the gate, the Thunder 1FT exudes a minimalist but rugged look. The body is constructed from grey-colored aviation aluminum alloy. Paired with the 4-inch-wide all-terrain tires and a vibrant purple rear suspension, the bike has some respectable curb attraction.

fifth Wheel Thunder 1FT tech specs

• Motor: 500W Brushless Rear Hub, 800W Peak
• Prime pace: 20MPH
• Vary: 31 miles on pure electrical, 50 miles on pedal help
• Battery: 48V 10Ah
• Cost time: 4-5 hours
• Internet weight: 61.73 lb
• Suspension: Entrance Hydraulic Fork + Rear Shock Absorber
• Max load: 220.46 lb
• Brakes: Mechanical Disc Brakes

Whereas a folding electrical bike won’t be the best choice for strictly off-road using, I’ve to say that once I put it to the check on steep hills and rocky terrain, I felt rather more snug and in management than I had anticipated.

To get began, the bike must be pedaled to round 3-5 mph earlier than the motor could be activated. Relying on the mode you’re in, you might be in for a shock. Don’t let the 20 mph high pace idiot you; the 800W peak rear hub motor can kick in surprisingly quick and propel you up steep hills with out breaking a sweat. The bike tends to manage the highest pace to remain inside that 20 mph restrict. So, should you’re cruising at 20 mph on a flat highway and begin pedaling vigorously, the motor will start to chop again, which I discovered to be a bit disappointing. On the brilliant facet, it’s reassuring to know that the bike has extra energy than it initially seems, permitting it to climb uphill for prolonged durations at a sustained 20 mph, similar to on flat roads.

The primary compromise I observed on this bike, other than the decrease energy motor and battery, is the brakes. The mechanical disc brakes carry out decently, particularly when paired with the grippy fats tires. Nevertheless, should you’re anticipating the instant stopping energy of hydraulic brakes, you is likely to be barely upset.

The aluminum body contributes to a decently light-weight bike. The 61 lb bike was a breeze to hold as soon as folded, and the folding course of was easy with solely 2 latches to undo. The folded dimensions are 1000x580x750mm. I used to be in a position to match it within the backseat of a compact sedan with ease, and I’m positive it would slot in some smaller-sized closets.

The light-weight side of this bike additionally made it pretty simple to pedal with none energy. I wouldn’t purposely go for an extended experience on pedal energy alone, but when I ever discovered myself not taking note of how a lot battery was left and ran out of juice 5-10 miles from residence, I wouldn’t actually thoughts having to experience residence on mode 0, which is its pedal-only mode.

The battery makes use of 52 18650 cells with a rated voltage of 48V and a rated capability of 10.4Ah. It’s simple to take out from the bike and takes round 4-5 hours to get a full cost.

For security, the bike is supplied with a headlamp and rear mild, although I might say the rear and entrance mild just isn’t the brightest and is probably going one other one of many compromises.

What I didn’t like:

For essentially the most half, the meeting was pretty easy, however when it got here to the fenders, particularly the rear fender, it was much more concerned than I might have favored. The rear tire must be deflated with a purpose to screw within the third bolt, which isn’t the worst course of, however when using off-road, the third bolt will possible come off pretty shortly. They definitely look good, however since I wished to maintain testing the bike’s off-road capabilities, I opted to take away the fender.

Electrek’s take:

On the $1,399 worth level, the Thunder 1FT makes some honest compromises and delivers a glossy, foldable electrical bike with respectable off-road capabilities, particularly as soon as that rear fender is taken off.

Use code ELECTREK100 for $100 off.