Juiced RipCurrent S: Ebike for Bikepacking
Last Updated on June 24, 2024 by Kristina Grant
Ah, the open road. The wind whipping through your hair, the rhythmic whir of tires on pavement, and the boundless expanse of nature stretching before you. This isn’t just a leisurely Sunday ride; it’s bikepacking, an exhilarating adventure where you and your trusty steed become one with the wilderness.
Bikepacking is the essence of self-sufficiency on two wheels. Imagine trading bulky suitcases for meticulously packed handlebar bags and sturdy panniers clinging to your bike. You carry everything you need for your journey – food, shelter, and a sense of adventure – propelling yourself forward with pedal power and unwavering determination.
The allure of bikepacking is undeniable. It’s about breaking free from the constraints of traditional travel, embracing the freedom to explore uncharted territories at your own pace. Imagine traversing scenic backroads, discovering hidden gems tucked away from the tourist trail, and camping under a canopy of stars – all powered by your own grit and the exhilarating thrill of self-reliance. Bikepacking fosters a deep connection with nature, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and raw beauty of the world around you. It’s a chance to challenge yourself, test your limits, and forge memories that will last a lifetime.
The Juiced RipCurrent S steps onto the scene as your ideal companion for these epic bikepacking expeditions.
Juiced RipCurrent S E-Bike: A Detailed Review for Bikepackers
The Juiced RipCurrent S is an all-terrain electric bike ideal for bikepacking adventures. It boasts a powerful 1000W motor, a large battery with a long range, and comfortable suspension, making it a compelling choice for riders looking to explore off-road trails and conquer challenging terrains.
Here’s a closer look at the RipCurrent S’s features:
- Motor: 1000W rear hub motor with 80 Nm peak torque, offering impressive acceleration and hill-climbing ability.
- Battery: G2 52V/19.2Ah (995Wh) battery with SGS Certification (UL 2271), ensuring safety and extended range. Juiced claims a 70+ mile range, but tests achieved nearly 90 miles on a single charge under optimal conditions.
- Display: Advanced LCD display showing speed, battery level, PAS level, and other ride metrics.
- PAS (Pedal Assist System): 5 levels of pedal assist (Eco, PAS 1-3, and S mode) for varying degrees of assistance.
- Throttle: Thumb throttle for added power on demand.
- Brakes: Logan HD-E500 hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors for strong and reliable stopping power.
- Gearing: LTWOO 9-speed drivetrain with 11-34T cassette providing a good gear range for various terrains.
- Suspension: Air suspension fork with 80mm travel for absorbing bumps and improving comfort on rough roads.
- Wheels: 26” x 4” CST off-road tires offering excellent traction and stability.
- Weight: 80.5 lbs (with battery)
- Frame: 6061 aluminum frame available in three sizes (medium, large, and X-Large) for a comfortable fit.
- Other Features: Ergonomic lock-on grips, LED headlight and taillight, platform pedals, Selle Royal A306 URO saddle, fenders, and a 50 lbs. capacity rear rack.
Performance:
Testing revealed the RipCurrent S to be a capable and impressive e-bike:
- Acceleration: The bike accelerates quickly from a stop, reaching top PAS speeds promptly thanks to the powerful motor.
- Range: We achieved a remarkable range of nearly 90 miles in Eco mode and 42 miles using the highest pedal assist level (S mode), exceeding Juiced’s advertised range.
- Hill Climbing: The RipCurrent S tackled both our throttle-only and pedaling hill climb tests with ease, reaching the top in both scenarios.
- Braking: The hydraulic disc brakes provided decent stopping power with an average stopping distance of 21’9” in testing.
- Ride Quality: The air suspension fork offered acceptable bump absorption, and the wide, knobby tires provided good traction on various terrains. The upright riding position ensured comfort during long rides.
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Juiced RipCurrent S E-Bike Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Motor | 1000W rear hub, 80 Nm peak torque |
| Battery | G2 52V/19.2Ah (995Wh), SGS Certified (UL 2271) |
| Charger | 2-amp (optional 3-amp available for faster charging) |
| Controller | 9 transistor / 25 amp (peak) |
| Display | Advanced LCD display |
| PAS | 5 levels (Eco, PAS 1-3, S mode) |
| Throttle | Thumb throttle |
| Classification | Ships as Class 2 (can be set to Class 1 or 3) |
| Weight | 80.5 lbs (with battery) |
| Frame | 6061 aluminum heat-treated, available in 3 sizes (M, L, XL) |
| Brakes | Logan HD-E500 hydraulic disc brakes, 180mm rotors |
| Gearing | LTWOO 9-speed drivetrain, 11-34T cassette |
| Shifter | LTWOO trigger shifter |
| Chainring | ProWheel 52T |
| Crank | Aluminum CNC, 170 mm |
| Wheels | 26″ x 4″ double walled aluminum |
| Tires | 26″ x 4″ CST off-road |
| Fork | Air suspension, 80mm travel |
| Handlebar | Custom short moto bar, 6″ rise, 720mm, 31.8mm clamp |
| Stem | 40mm length, 28.6mm, 1 ⅛” threadless |
| Grips | Ergonomic lock-on grips |
| Headlight | 1050 lumen LED |
| Taillight | Star Union rear LED |
| Pedals | Platform pedals |
| Seat | Selle Royal, A306 URO |
| Seat Post | 31.6 mm diameter |
| Mud Guards | Front & rear fenders |
| Rear Rack | 50 lbs. capacity |
Pros:
- Powerful 1000W motor for strong acceleration and hill climbing
- Long battery range exceeding 70 miles
- Comfortable air suspension fork
- Hydraulic disc brakes for strong stopping power
- Wide, knobby tires for excellent traction
- Precise and clean 9-speed gear shifting
- Three frame sizes for a good fit
- Durable aluminum frame
- Comes with fenders, rack, and lights – ready for bikepacking adventures
Cons:
- Heavy weight (80.5 lbs) can be cumbersome for maneuvering
- Stock 2-amp charger results in long charging times (up to 10 hours) – Juiced offers optional 3-amp chargers for faster charging
- 1000W motor might be illegal on some public trails
- Generic air suspension fork might not be ideal for technical terrain (can be upgraded)
Should You Buy It?
The Juiced RipCurrent S is an excellent choice for bikepackers seeking a powerful and comfortable e-bike for off-road adventures. Its long range, impressive hill-climbing ability, and comfortable ride quality make it ideal for conquering challenging terrains. However, the weight and potentially limited legality due to the powerful motor should be considered. If you prioritize a lighter weight bike or plan to ride mostly on public trails with motor restrictions, a different e-bike might be a better option.
Overall, the Juiced RipCurrent S is a compelling e-bike for bikepackers and adventurous riders seeking a powerful and versatile companion for exploring the outdoors.
Kristina Grant is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.
Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
