Blix Sol Eclipse Review: A Comprehensive Look at this Electric Beach Cruiser
The Blix Sol Eclipse is a Class 2 electric beach cruiser that offers an ideal balance of comfort, power, and affordability. Featuring a 750W rear hub motor and a 48V, 12.8 Ah battery, the Sol Eclipse excels in providing a smooth, leisurely ride for a wide range of riders. Whether you’re cruising along a beach boardwalk or navigating paved trails, the Sol Eclipse promises a relaxing experience. In this review, we dive into all aspects of this e-bike, from its performance and components to its comfort and price point, to help you decide if it’s the right e-bike for you.
Key Features of the Blix Sol Eclipse
- Motor: 750W rear hub motor
- Battery: 48V, 12.8 Ah (614Wh)
- Range: 20-60 miles (depending on assist level)
- Brakes: Tektro mechanical disc brakes, 160mm rotors
- Gearing: Shimano Tourney 7-speed
- Weight: 56 lbs
- Price: Regular $1,899 | On Sale: $1,499
Blix Sol Eclipse Specs & Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Bike Type | Cruiser/Step-Through |
| Class | Class 2 (PAS/Throttle assist up to 20 mph) |
| Motor | 750W rear hub motor |
| Battery | 48V, 12.8 Ah (614Wh) |
| Range | 20-60 miles |
| Throttle | Lever throttle |
| Pedal Assist Levels | 1-5 |
| Brakes | Tektro mechanical disc brakes, 160mm rotors |
| Fork | Rigid steel fork |
| Gearing | Shimano Tourney 7-speed, RevoShift shifter |
| Tires | 27.5” x 2.4” tires |
| Weight | 56 lbs |
| Maximum Rider Weight | 270 lbs |
| Max Load on Rear Rack | 50 lbs |
| Display | LCD with USB charging port |
| Price | Regular: $1,899 Sale $1,499 |
Performance Testing of the Blix Sol Eclipse
While we did not personally test the Blix Sol Eclipse, our review is based on thorough reported testing from experts and rigorous testing on performance metrics such as speed, range, hill climbing, and handling. Below, we provide insights into what was discovered during the testing of the Sol Eclipse.
Speed and Acceleration
The Blix Sol Eclipse reaches a maximum speed of 20 mph using both pedal assist and throttle. The 750W motor accelerates smoothly and rapidly, allowing riders to reach this top speed without feeling overwhelmed. The throttle accelerates quickly but in a controlled way, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced riders. The higher pedal assist settings (PAS 4 and 5) offer faster acceleration compared to the throttle alone, although the power delivery remains predictable and smooth.
Testing Results:
- In PAS 5, the bike reached an average speed of 19.3 mph on a 1-mile circuit, closely approaching the 20 mph max speed.
Range Testing
To test the range, reported results indicate that the Blix Sol Eclipse delivers solid performance in terms of distance.
- PAS 5 Range Test: The bike reached 24.84 miles with an average speed of 17.8 mph.
- PAS 2 Range Test: A reported result saw the bike achieving 59.59 miles with an average speed of 10.9 mph.
These results suggest that the Sol Eclipse’s 48V, 12.8 Ah battery is efficient, offering a range of 20-60 miles, depending on the power level selected. Even in PAS 2, a moderate assist setting, the bike still managed to cover 59 miles—well beyond its claimed 45-mile maximum range.
Hill Climbing Performance
The 750W motor of the Sol Eclipse proved to be a strong performer on steep inclines, easily climbing our test hill (Hell Hole), which has a 12-15% grade.
Test Results:
- Throttle Only: The bike reached the top of the hill in 1:06 with an average speed of 16.8 mph.
- PAS 5: Using the highest pedal assist setting, the bike climbed the hill in 0:59 with an average speed of 18.8 mph.
These results confirm that the Blix Sol Eclipse has excellent hill-climbing capabilities, making it a great option for riders who live in hilly areas or want to tackle more challenging routes.
RELATED CONTENT
Handling and Ride Comfort
The Sol Eclipse’s handling is designed to be straightforward and comfortable. The frame geometry, combined with the rigid steel fork, creates a stable and easy ride, even for riders with less experience. The 27.5″ x 2.4″ tires provide a smooth ride, ideal for cruising over paved paths and boardwalks.
The up-right geometry with swept-back handlebars and an ergonomic saddle ensures that the rider remains comfortable even after long rides. Testers reported over 100 miles without any discomfort.
Brakes and Stopping Power
The Tektro mechanical disc brakes with 160mm rotors provide reliable stopping power. The braking system was tested by bringing the bike to a stop from full speed, and it performed admirably with an average stopping distance of 16 feet, 8 inches. While not the most powerful brakes available, they are perfectly adequate for the Sol Eclipse’s design and intended use.
Pros
- Affordable Price: On sale for $1,499, it provides great value for an electric cruiser with these features.
- Comfortable Design: Ergonomic grips, padded cruiser saddle, and upright riding position make it easy on the back, neck, and wrists.
- Strong Performance: The 750W motor provides impressive power for acceleration and hill climbing.
- Great Range: The bike exceeds its claimed range, achieving up to 60 miles depending on assist levels.
- Good Looks: Available in four colors, including a beautiful Sky Blue model.
Cons
- Pedal Assist Settings: The transition between PAS 1 and PAS 2 is subtle, and some riders may prefer more noticeable differences in power delivery.
- Throttle Active in PAS 0: The throttle is still live when using PAS 0, which could be an additional safety concern for some riders.
Who is the Blix Sol Eclipse Good For?
The Blix Sol Eclipse is ideal for anyone looking for a comfortable, affordable electric beach cruiser that delivers solid performance. Whether you’re a casual rider, someone looking for a bike for leisurely cruises along boardwalks, or even an occasional commuter, this e-bike can handle it all. Its smooth ride, affordable price, and hill-climbing ability make it a great choice for riders new to e-bikes or those seeking a no-fuss, enjoyable experience.
Should You Buy the Blix Sol Eclipse?
The Blix Sol Eclipse offers a fantastic blend of comfort, style, and performance at an affordable price point. Its strong motor, smooth ride, and long-lasting battery make it a great choice for leisurely riders and commuters alike. However, the throttle issue on PAS 0 and the lack of distinction between lower pedal-assist levels could be a downside for some riders.
If you’re considering alternatives, here are two great options:
- Rad Power Bikes RadCity 5 Plus – This e-bike offers a more powerful motor (750W), a larger battery (48V, 14Ah), and a more robust design. It also features a more advanced display system, making it a better choice for riders who want a more tech-savvy experience and higher-end components.
- Aventon Pace 500 – A solid alternative for those seeking a slightly sportier ride. The Aventon Pace 500 comes with a 500W motor, a longer-lasting battery (48V, 14Ah), and a sleek, modern design. It’s ideal for riders who want an affordable yet powerful option for both commuting and casual rides.
The Blix Sol Eclipse is an excellent e-bike for those looking for a stress-free and comfortable cruising experience, especially if you’re on a budget.
Have you taken the Blix Sol Eclipse for a spin? Share your thoughts in the comments below or let us know what you love about your own electric cruiser! Don’t forget to subscribe for more detailed reviews and updates on the latest e-bikes!
The prices mentioned in this article are subject to change and may vary depending on promotions, sales, and availability. The price listed for the Blix Sol Eclipse is accurate at the time of writing, but we recommend checking the manufacturer’s website or authorized retailers for the most current pricing information.
Photo credits via Blix Bike
Kristina 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.
