Retrospec Valen Rev+ Step-Through Review: A Moped-Style E-Bike I Actually Love to Pedal

Last Updated on November 3, 2026 by Kristina

🚴‍♀️ Hands-On Review – Based on personal riding and direct testing.

Introduction

The Retrospec Valen Rev+ caught my attention with its moped styling, but the pedals are what won me over.

I own a HappyRun G70 and a TALON, and getting comfortable on a bike with this shape can involve a few compromises. The Retrospec has been a welcome change. It is easy for me to get on and off, the seat feels great, and I have been having a blast pedaling it.

There is plenty to like here, from the useful acceleration on pedal assist to a double-leg kickstand that holds the bike more securely when parked. Our experience began well, too: my husband had it assembled in about 15 minutes at most.

My biggest reservation is the thumb throttle. Although I find it easier to use than the stock one on my Mooncool POP, I noticed some jerking. A twist throttle would suit me better, and turn signals would be a welcome addition.

After spending time riding the Valen Rev+ Step-Through, I’ve found plenty to love about this bike, along with a few things I would change. Here’s my experience with its comfort, performance, features, and how it holds up during everyday rides.

🔎 Why You Can Trust This Review

This review is based on my firsthand experience riding the Retrospec Valen Rev+ Step-Through. My husband also assembled the bike, giving us the opportunity to evaluate everything from the packaging and setup to its comfort, performance, and everyday features.

I’ve also ridden other moped-style e-bikes, including the HappyRun G70 and TALON, which gives me a useful point of comparison. Where I reference independent performance testing, I identify the source so readers can distinguish those results from my own experience.

At Electric Bike Explorer, I believe in providing honest, practical reviews that highlight both the strengths and drawbacks of every bike. You can learn more about how I evaluate electric bikes in our E-Bike Research, Review, and Editorial Process.

Disclosure: Retrospec provided this e-bike for review. This article may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. These relationships do not influence my ratings or conclusions.

Standout Features

• Step-through aluminum frame with moto-inspired seating.
• Eight-speed Shimano drivetrain.
• Removable, frame-integrated battery.
• Hydraulic disc brakes and front suspension.
• Color display that I could read without difficulty in daylight.

🎬 Take a Closer Look at the Retrospec Valen Rev+
Want to see more of the Valen Rev+? I filmed this quick walkaround to give you a closer look at the bike from different angles, including its step-through frame, two-piece seat, fat tires, and retro moped-inspired design. It’s a great way to see some of the details that photographs don’t always capture.

Retrospec Valen Rev+ Step-Through Specifications

Feature	Specification
Model	Valen Rev+ Step-Through
Colors	Matte Shale and Matte Arbor
Frame	6061 aluminum
Motor	750W rear hub
Battery	Removable 48V, 720Wh, LG 21700 cells; equivalent to 15Ah
Advertised range	Conflicting manufacturer claims: up to 68 miles in specifications; up to 55 miles in the FAQ.
Pedal assist	Six levels, plus walk mode
Sensor	Cadence, as reported by Ebike Escape
Throttle	Thumb throttle
Speed configuration	Reported Class 2 setup; up to 28 mph pedal assist in optional Class 3 configuration; throttle limited to 20 mph
Drivetrain	Shimano Altus 8-speed; Rapidfire Plus shifter
Fork	100mm suspension travel
Rear suspension	None
Tires	20 × 4 inches; puncture protection and reflective sidewalls
Brakes	Tektro hydraulic discs, 180mm rotors
Display	Center-mounted color LCD
Charger	Listed as 48V/2A
Charging	Battery on or off bike
Saddle	Two-piece moto-style
Lights	Integrated front light rated at 100 lux; rear light with brake indicator
Turn signals	Not included
Kickstand	Double-leg stand fitted to my review bike; published descriptions vary
Claimed weight	72 lb including battery; see discrepancy below
Weight limit	350 lb total recommended limit
Certification	Retrospec lists UL 2849 and UL 2271 certification
Price reference	$1,299.99 sale price displayed when rechecked; $1,899.99 regular price. Confirm checkout price.

Before choosing a vehicle rack: Electric Bike Report weighed its test bike at 80.5 lb with the battery, compared with the manufacturer’s 72 lb figure. Its review also describes a different kickstand arrangement. Versions and equipment may differ, so confirm the configuration shipping with your order and do not use the lower weight figure without checking when choosing a rack.

✅ Pros

• Smooth, fun riding experience with pedal assist.
• Very comfortable seat in my experience.
• Far easier for me to pedal than my HappyRun G70.
• Good assist power and acceleration during my rides.
• Step-through frame makes getting on and off easier.
• Double-leg kickstand on my bike feels more stable when parked.
• Hydraulic brakes and an eight-speed drivetrain are useful equipment choices.
• Well packaged, with very good instructions and a helpful general e-bike care booklet.
• Easy assembly: my husband estimated about 15 minutes at most.
• Display was easy for me to see in daylight.

❌ Cons

• Noticeable jerking during my thumb-throttle use.
• I would prefer a twist throttle.
• No integrated turn signals.
• Substantial weight, with conflicting published figures.
• Moto-style seating offers less fit adjustment than a conventional saddle and seatpost.
• No rear suspension.
• Strict direct-purchase return conditions.

Ride Quality: A Comfortable Cruiser With Pedals Worth Using

One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about the Valen Rev+ is how comfortable it is to ride. It has a relaxed, easygoing feel that makes me want to get out and ride, whether I’m cruising around the neighborhood or heading down to the waterfront.

🎬 See the Retrospec Valen Rev+ in Action
Want to see how the Valen Rev+ looks out on the road? Here’s a short video of my husband riding it along the waterfront. It gives you a real-world look at the bike in motion and its distinctive moped-style design.

The seat is a big part of that comfort. I’ve ridden several moped-style e-bikes, and the Valen Rev+ has one of the most comfortable seats I’ve experienced. The long, two-piece saddle provides plenty of room, and I’ve been very happy with how it feels during my rides.

Another thing that stands out is how enjoyable it is to pedal. Compared to my HappyRun G70, which takes considerably more effort to pedal, the Retrospec makes pedaling feel much easier. I don’t feel like I need to rely on the throttle to enjoy riding it.

How Does It Fit a Shorter Rider?

For reference, I’m 5’4″, and I was able to sit on the Valen Rev+ with both feet flat on the ground while wearing shoes that add approximately an inch to my height. I really appreciate being able to plant both feet securely when stopped, especially on a heavier, moped-style e-bike.

The seat doesn’t offer the height adjustment of a traditional bicycle saddle, so fit will depend on your height, inseam, and body proportions. However, for me, the seating position has worked out very well.

How Well Does It Handle Bumps?

One thing I did notice during my rides is that I feel bumps in the road more on the Valen Rev+ than I do on my HappyRun G70. The HappyRun has full suspension, including rear shocks, while the Retrospec only has front suspension. I suspect that’s a big part of the difference.

The Valen Rev+ does have a front suspension fork and 20 × 4-inch fat tires, but without rear suspension, more of those bumps can be felt through the seat.

That doesn’t take away from how much I enjoy riding the bike, but it’s worth knowing if you’re comparing it to a full-suspension model. For someone who frequently rides on rough pavement or uneven trails, the difference in suspension could be an important consideration.

Overall, I’m very happy with the Valen Rev+’s ride quality. The seat is comfortable, the bike is enjoyable to pedal, and the step-through design makes it easy for me to get on and off. While it doesn’t absorb bumps quite as well as my HappyRun G70, it’s still a bike I genuinely look forward to riding.

Motor Power and Pedal Assist

The Valen Rev+ is equipped with a 750W rear hub motor, and I’ve been very happy with the power it delivers. One of the things I enjoy most about riding this bike is how well the pedal assist works. When I start pedaling, the motor provides plenty of assistance, making it easy to pick up speed without feeling like I’m working too hard.

The acceleration has been particularly enjoyable. There’s something satisfying about pedaling along and feeling the motor help you gain speed. Unlike some moped-style e-bikes that seem designed primarily for throttle riding, the Valen Rev+ actually makes me want to use the pedals.

The bike offers six levels of pedal assist, so you can choose how much assistance you want while riding. It uses a cadence sensor, which detects when you’re turning the pedals rather than measuring how much pressure you’re applying. The higher assist settings allow the bike to reach higher speeds, while the lower settings are useful when you want a more relaxed ride.

Another feature I appreciate is the 8-speed Shimano drivetrain. Having multiple gears makes pedaling more practical, especially when adjusting your speed or riding on different terrain. It’s a nice addition to a bike with this style.

The Valen Rev+ is designed to operate as a Class 2 e-bike out of the box, with motor assistance limited to 20 mph. It also has an optional Class 3 setting that allows pedal assist up to 28 mph, while the throttle remains limited to 20 mph. Riders should check their local e-bike regulations before changing the speed settings.

Overall, I’ve been impressed with how enjoyable the Valen Rev+ is to pedal. The combination of its 750W motor, six assist levels, and eight-speed drivetrain makes it a fun bike to ride, whether I’m cruising around the neighborhood or heading down to the waterfront.

The Thumb Throttle Is My Biggest Compromise

As much as I’m enjoying the Valen Rev+, there’s one thing I’m not particularly fond of: the thumb throttle.

I’ve noticed some jerking when using it, especially compared to the smooth feel I get when pedaling with assistance. It’s not something that has ruined my experience with the bike, but it’s noticeable enough that I wanted to mention it.

The thumb throttle is actually easier for me to operate than the original one on my Mooncool POP. In fact, I eventually replaced the POP’s thumb throttle because I wasn’t happy with it. I’ve always preferred twist throttles, and I think having one on the Valen Rev+ would make the riding experience even better.

This is only my second e-bike with a thumb throttle, so I’m still getting used to this style of control. It’s possible that becoming more familiar with it will help me achieve smoother acceleration, but I can’t say for certain what’s causing the jerking.

For me, it’s more of an annoyance than a dealbreaker. I still really enjoy riding the Valen Rev+, particularly when using pedal assist. But if I could change one thing about the bike, switching to a twist throttle would be near the top of my list.

Easy Access and a More Stable Stand

One of my favorite things about the Valen Rev+ is how easy it is to get on and off. Compared to my HappyRun G70 and TALON, which have taller frames and long moped-style seats, the Retrospec is much easier for me to mount and dismount. It’s a difference I really appreciate, especially since I sometimes struggle getting on and off those other bikes.

The Valen Rev+ is a completely different experience. Its step-through frame makes getting on and off so much easier, and I don’t have to struggle to swing my leg over a tall seat. It’s one of those features that might not seem like a big deal until you’ve ridden bikes that are more difficult to get on and off.

Another feature I’ve really come to appreciate is the double-leg kickstand. Unlike the traditional single-leg kickstands found on many e-bikes, this one supports the bike from both sides, giving it a much more stable feel when parked.

I’ve been very pleased with how securely it holds the Valen Rev+ upright. Considering the bike’s size and weight, having a sturdy kickstand is something I appreciate every time I park it.

Between the easy step-through frame and the stable kickstand, Retrospec has made this bike a pleasure to use, not just while riding but also when getting ready to ride or putting it away afterward.

Walk Assist, Cargo Options, and Everyday Practicality

The Valen Rev+ includes a walk assist feature, which is especially useful on a heavier e-bike like this one. Rather than having to push the bike entirely on your own, walk assist allows the motor to provide a little help while you’re walking alongside it. I can see this coming in handy when moving the bike up a slight incline or maneuvering it somewhere you don’t want to ride.

Another feature I like about the Valen Rev+ is its two-piece seat. While I find the seat very comfortable as it is, the rear portion can actually be removed to reveal a built-in cargo rack. This gives you the option of adding a compatible basket or other accessories if you’d rather use that space for carrying things.

I think that’s a clever design choice because it gives owners more flexibility without completely changing the bike’s appearance. Just be sure to check the weight limits and compatibility of any accessories you plan to install.

Retrospec has also included what it calls an easy-change rear wheel removal system. This is designed to make removing and reinstalling the rear wheel less complicated when maintenance or repairs are needed. Considering that rear wheel removal can be a frustrating job on some hub-motor e-bikes, it’s a welcome feature to see.

These may not be the first things that catch your attention when looking at the Valen Rev+, but they’re practical details that can make a difference over time.

Colors and Styling

The Valen Rev+ Step-Through is available in two colors: Matte Shale and Matte Arbor. My bike has the soft green Matte Arbor finish, which I think looks great with the black seat, handlebars, and fat tires.

I really like the overall design of this bike. It has that retro moped appearance, with its long, two-piece seat and BMX-style handlebars, but the step-through frame makes it much easier to get on and off than some of my other moped-style e-bikes.

Another nice touch is the battery being tucked neatly inside the frame. It gives the bike a cleaner look without a bulky battery pack mounted on the outside. Overall, I think Retrospec did a great job combining the classic moped look with practical features that make the bike enjoyable to ride.

Battery, Charging, and Range

The Valen Rev+ comes with a removable 48V, 720Wh battery that uses LG cells. The battery fits neatly inside the frame, and you can charge it either while it’s installed or remove it and bring it indoors. That’s especially convenient if you keep your bike in a garage or shed without an electrical outlet nearby.

When it comes to range, Retrospec advertises up to 68 miles per charge in its specifications, although the FAQ on its website mentions up to 55 miles. I would treat those figures as estimates rather than expecting to get that distance on every ride.

For some real-world perspective, Electric Bike Report recorded 36.45 miles while riding the Valen Rev+ in its highest pedal assist setting, PAS 6. That’s a useful result to consider alongside the advertised figures, although their test bike may differ from the current Step-Through model.

My Experience With Battery Life

So far, I’ve been pleased with how well the battery is holding up. On one of my rides, I took the Valen Rev+ down to the waterfront, which is a few miles from our house. Even after riding that distance, the display was still showing all the battery bars.

I’ve also been riding the bike around our neighborhood and haven’t noticed any significant drop in the battery level during these shorter outings. That’s been encouraging, especially since I’ve been enjoying using the pedal assist quite a bit.

Of course, having all the battery bars showing doesn’t necessarily mean no power was used. The display may not reflect smaller changes in the battery’s charge level. I also haven’t ridden far enough to determine how close I can get to Retrospec’s advertised maximum range.

Still, based on my experience so far, I’m happy with how the battery has been performing.

What Affects the Range?

How far you can ride on a single charge depends on several factors, including your speed, the pedal assist level you choose, hills, wind, rider weight, and tire pressure. Using the throttle frequently can also drain the battery faster than riding with lower levels of pedal assistance.

The Valen Rev+ comes with a 2A charger, so you’ll want to allow several hours for a full recharge. It’s not a particularly fast charging setup, but I do like having the option to remove the battery and charge it separately from the bike.

Reported Testing: Results From Other Reviewers

These measurements come from Electric Bike Report, not Electric Bike Explorer.

Test	Published result
Range at maximum assist, PAS 6	36.45 miles
Throttle-only hill climb	1 minute 14 seconds; 14.7 mph average
Maximum-assist hill climb	1 minute 13 seconds; 14.9 mph average
Braking	Average stopping distance of 20 ft 7 in across three runs
Measured bike weight	80.5 lb with battery

Those results provide context for the bike’s capability. They do not guarantee the same distance, climbing speed, or braking distance for another rider. The brake figure is a reported result under the publication’s test protocol, rather than a stopping-distance promise.

Display and Tech: Easy to See in Daylight

I did not have any issues seeing the display in daylight. That is something I appreciate on an e-bike, because the screen needs to be readable while you are actually out riding.

The center-mounted color LCD keeps the bike’s information in front of you, with a handlebar button pod for the assist settings and other controls. I was pleased that daytime visibility did not become a frustration during my rides.

Brakes, Lights, and a Missing Feature

The Valen Rev+ comes equipped with Tektro hydraulic disc brakes and 180mm rotors. During my rides, I found the brakes worked well, bringing the bike to a smooth, controlled stop without any issues. Even when traveling at approximately 15 mph, I had no trouble slowing down and stopping. That’s reassuring on a heavier, moped-style e-bike, especially when you’re riding around town or sharing paths with other cyclists.

The Valen Rev+ comes equipped with a bright front headlight rated at 100 lux, along with a rear light that also functions as a brake light. I especially like that the rear light brightens when you apply the brakes, helping other riders and drivers behind you know when you’re slowing down.

One feature I wish Retrospec had included is turn signals. With the Valen Rev+ being a moped-style e-bike, I think built-in turn signals would be a nice addition, especially for riders who plan to use it around town or in traffic. They’re not a dealbreaker for me, but I would certainly appreciate having them.

Unboxing and Assembly: An Excellent Start

The bike arrived well packaged, and the instructions were very good. My husband found the assembly straightforward and said it was by far the easiest bike he has put together. He estimated about 15 minutes at most.

That was a refreshing start to ownership. Assembly can be a source of frustration with a new e-bike, so having clear directions and a simple process made a good impression on us.

I also liked the separate booklet covering general e-bike information and care. For someone buying their first electric bike, that is a useful resource to have after the assembly is finished. It helps make the package feel more welcoming to a beginner.

Allow whatever time you need to follow the instructions and complete the safety checks; our assembly time reflects my husband’s experience.

Warranty

Retrospec’s current policy for purchases after January 1, 2025 lists:

Coverage	Current stated term
Frame integrity, original purchaser	Limited lifetime
Battery, original purchaser	Two years or 500 charging cycles, whichever comes first
Electrical components, original purchaser	Two years
Third-party components	Six months through Retrospec; separate manufacturer coverage may apply afterward
Labor and transportation	Excluded

Coverage concerns qualifying defects, rather than normal wear, misuse, or damage caused by improper assembly or maintenance. Keep proof of purchase and check the terms applicable to your purchase.

The older Valen manual contains different warranty periods. I would use the current Retrospec warranty policy and obtain written clarification if your supplied documents differ.

Customer Service

Retrospec provides customer support through its contact form and authorized retailers. For help with a technical issue or warranty request, have your proof of purchase, bike serial number, and a clear description of the problem ready.

Before purchasing through a dealer, ask whether the shop services this model’s electrical system and handles warranty work. That is especially helpful if you would rather have a local contact than troubleshoot remotely.

Returns: Read This Before Ordering

Retrospec’s direct-purchase policy is restrictive. It states that an e-bike must be received at its warehouse within 14 days of purchase, and must be new, unused, unassembled, and in its original packaging with the included materials. It specifically excludes test rides from the definition of unused.

Return shipping is the buyer’s responsibility. Assembled or ridden bikes may incur fees or be denied, and final-sale exclusions also apply.

I would not treat this as a home test-ride period. Confirm eligibility and timing before ordering, especially because the stated window starts at purchase. A separate retailer may have different terms.

Financing

Retrospec offers financing through Affirm, subject to eligibility and the offer shown at checkout. A down payment may be required, and interest can increase the total cost.

I would compare the total repayment amount, APR, and payment schedule rather than deciding from the monthly payment alone. An advertised payment is not a guaranteed offer for every buyer.

What Riders Are Saying

The following short excerpts are from customer reviews displayed on Retrospec’s Valen Rev+ Step-Through product page. The excerpts are attributed to the names shown on that page.

“Plenty of power, super fun” — Kris

That lines up with the enjoyable assist performance I have experienced.

“its a solid ride.” — Arlene

Arlene’s broader comment discusses fit and the bike’s substantial feel. Fit will still vary by rider.

“Need two people to get it out of box” — Anonymous

That is a useful reminder to plan for handling a heavy delivery.

These are selected comments from a brand-hosted review section, rather than a representative survey of all owners. Positive feedback does not resolve questions about long-term reliability or customer service.

Source: Retrospec’s displayed customer reviews.

Electric Bike Explorer Score

Overall Score: 8.9/10 — Very Good

Comfort, easy pedaling, and a remarkably straightforward setup are the Valen Rev+’s strongest qualities in my experience. Throttle feel is the clearest compromise, with weight and the absence of turn signals also worth considering.

Score Breakdown

Category	Score	Why
Ride quality and seat comfort	9.5/10	An enjoyable ride with a seat I find very comfortable.
Pedaling experience	9.0/10	Much easier for me to pedal than my HappyRun G70.
Motor and pedal assist	9.0/10	Good power and acceleration during my rides.
Accessibility and parking	9.0/10	Easy step-through access and a stable double-leg stand; substantial weight.
Throttle experience	7.0/10	Noticeable jerking during use; I prefer a twist throttle.
Battery and range	8.5/10	Removable 720Wh pack and useful independently reported range; conflicting advertised mileage.
Brakes and safety equipment	8.5/10	Hydraulic brakes, lights, and listed electrical certifications; no turn signals.
Display and controls	9.0/10	I had no trouble seeing the display in daylight.
Packaging, instructions, and assembly	10.0/10	Very good instructions, helpful care booklet, and exceptionally easy assembly for my husband.
Value and ownership practicality	8.5/10	Appealing equipment and comfort at the checked sale price, balanced against weight and restrictive returns.

The overall score is the equal-weight average of these ten categories: 89 out of 100, or 8.9/10. Battery and braking assessments include the published equipment and independent results cited above.

Should You Buy the Retrospec Valen Rev+?

I think the Valen Rev+ Step-Through is an excellent choice for someone who wants a comfortable, moped-style cruiser that’s just as enjoyable to pedal as it is to ride. Its comfortable seating, easy step-through frame, and responsive pedal assist make it a great option for relaxed neighborhood rides, cruising along bike paths, or simply getting out and enjoying the ride.

What really sets the Valen Rev+ apart for me is how easy and enjoyable it is to ride. I’ve ridden other moped-style e-bikes that look great but aren’t nearly as comfortable or convenient to use. With the Retrospec, I can get on and off without struggling, the seat feels great, and I actually enjoy pedaling. It’s these everyday comforts that have made me appreciate this bike so much.

The Valen Rev+ also impressed me right from the start. My husband had it assembled in approximately 15 minutes, and the clear instructions and helpful e-bike care booklet were a nice touch. I think someone purchasing their first electric bike would especially appreciate how straightforward the setup is. I’ve also been pleased with how easy the display is to read, even in bright daylight.

Of course, there are a few things I would change. The thumb throttle is my biggest complaint, as I’ve experienced some jerking when using it. I much prefer the smooth feel of pedal assist, and I wish Retrospec had included a twist throttle instead. If you plan to rely heavily on the throttle, that’s something I’d keep in mind before purchasing.

The bike’s weight and fixed seat height are also worth considering. Although the seating position works very well for me, it may not be ideal for everyone. And if you plan to transport the Valen Rev+ on a vehicle rack, be sure it can accommodate the bike’s weight and fat tires. I’d also recommend reviewing Retrospec’s return policy before ordering.

Even with those few drawbacks, I’ve really enjoyed my time with the Valen Rev+. It’s comfortable, easy for me to get on and off, and genuinely fun to pedal. I love its retro moped styling, but what makes this bike stand out to me is how enjoyable it is to ride. If you’re looking for a comfortable cruiser with plenty of power and a design that makes everyday riding a pleasure, I think the Valen Rev+ is well worth considering.

Alternative #1: Ride1Up Revv1 FS

I would compare the Revv1 FS if your priorities are moped styling, a factory twist throttle, and full suspension.

Its current manufacturer specifications list a right-hand twist throttle, rear suspension, and rear turn signals on the FS version. Those directly address several features I would like to see on the Retrospec.

The tradeoff is access and weight. Ride1Up lists the FS at 93 lb with a 33-inch standover height. That makes it a very different proposition for someone who appreciates the Valen’s step-through frame as much as I do.

I would not assume it will reproduce the Retrospec’s enjoyable pedaling experience either. Its appeal is strongest for shoppers who put throttle riding and suspension ahead of easy frame access.

Explore the Ride1Up Revv1 FS.

Alternative #2: Aventon Aventure 3 Step-Through

I would compare the Aventure 3 Step-Through if easy access and bicycle-style pedaling matter more to you than having a long moto-style seat.

Aventon’s current specifications describe selectable torque- and cadence-sensor operation, app-based ride tuning, and a removable battery. That gives buyers a different approach to fit, pedal response, and connected features.

It is still a substantial fat-tire e-bike: Aventon lists it at 77 lb. It also has a different look and seating arrangement, so it will not replace the Valen’s particular appeal for everyone.

For me, the Retrospec’s attraction is the combination of its moped styling, comfortable seat, accessible frame, and surprisingly enjoyable pedaling. The Aventon is worth considering if you would rather move toward a more conventional bicycle layout.

Explore the Aventon Aventure 3 Step-Through.