Ride1UP Prodigy ST Review: A Premium Commuter E-Bike
Last Updated on January 31, 2025 by Kristina
The Ride1UP Prodigy ST is a commuter e-bike that stands out for its quality components at an attractive price point. This review will delve into the features, pros and cons, who this e-bike is suited for, and how it compares to similar models.
Features
- Brose mid-drive motor: A hallmark of quality e-bikes, the 250w Brose motor offers smooth, powerful and quiet assistance.
- Hydraulic disc brakes: Tektro Orion 4-piston brakes provide excellent stopping power with minimal hand effort.
- 504Wh battery: While the capacity might seem modest, impressively long range is achieved due to the efficient mid-drive motor.
- Lightweight frame: At only 56.2 lbs, the Prodigy ST is a breeze to maneuver.
- Full accessory package: Fenders, rear rack, lights, and kickstand are included, saving you money and hassle.
- 9-speed drivetrain: The Microshift Advent drivetrain offers a wide range of gears for tackling hills.
- Step-thru frame: This design makes mounting and dismounting the bike easier, especially for shorter riders.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Price | $1,295 |
| Class | 3 |
| Motor | 250w Brose mid-drive motor, 90Nm torque |
| Battery | 504Wh lithium-ion |
| Range | 30-50 mi. estimated |
| Top Speed | 28 mph |
| Weight | 56.2 lbs w/battery |
| Frame Material | Hydroformed 6061 aluminum |
| Suspension | Rigid fork |
| Brakes | Tektro Orion 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes, 180mm rotors |
| Drivetrain | 9-speed Microshift, 11-34t cassette, 46t chainring, trigger shifter |
| Tires | Schwalbe G-One Speed 27.5 x 2.0-in. |
| Display | Brose color LED |
| Rider Height | 5’1″ – 6’3″ (taller riders may prefer the XR model) |
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Pros
- Excellent value: The Ride1UP Prodigy ST offers high-quality components at a competitive price.
- Powerful and quiet motor: The Brose motor provides ample assist without being noisy.
- Long range: The 504Wh battery delivers an impressive range, exceeding the manufacturer’s estimates.
- Hydraulic disc brakes: Tektro Orion brakes offer superior stopping power in all weather conditions.
- Lightweight and maneuverable: The Prodigy ST is easy to handle and navigate through traffic.
- Comfortable ride: The 2-inch wide tires provide a decent ride quality on paved surfaces.
- Step-thru frame: Easier to mount and dismount, especially for shorter riders.
- Full accessory package: Includes everything you need to get started riding.
Cons
- Limited adjustability: The ST frame may not be ideal for taller riders. A longer top tube version would be ideal for some.
- No throttle: This may be a drawback for riders who want more on-demand power.
- Bumpy ride on rough terrain: The lack of suspension limits comfort on unpaved surfaces.
- Color options: Currently only available in white.
Reported Testing Information
- Speed Test: Riders reported reaching speeds of up to 27 mph in Turbo mode, making it a capable Class 3 e-bike.
- Range Test: In Eco mode, riders experienced an impressive range of over 90 miles, while Turbo mode still delivered a respectable 32 miles.
- Hill Climbing: The Brose mid-drive motor provided ample assistance for tackling steep hills, with riders reporting smooth and quiet performance.
- Braking Performance: The Tektro Orion 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes were praised for their excellent stopping power and consistent feel.
Who is It Good For?
The Ride1UP Prodigy ST is a great choice for budget-minded commuters who want a quality e-bike with a powerful motor, long range, and hydraulic disc brakes. It’s also suitable for recreational riders who enjoy cruising on paved paths. Those who prioritize comfort on rough terrain may want to consider a full-suspension e-bike.
Customer Reviews
- Cleve R.: “Awesome! Bought the L’mtd for my wife last year and have wanted one since. The Prodigy allows me to hit gravel and single track with my friends and cruise bike paths with the wife. Impressed that it’s completely silent. So far, couldn’t be happier!”
- Mark: “I like the weight and feel of this bike for mobility. It is very responsive…Very nice components for a bike in this price range.”
- Thomas U.: “Love the bike. Very well made. Great quality and value. Only wish a few color options were offered…”
- Matthew K.: “This is a very well built and spec’d bike. The Brose mid drive is so smooth and quiet. Everything was in fine working order when I received it and I had very little assembly to do.”
Should You Buy the Ride1Up Prodigy ST?
The Ride1UP Prodigy ST offers exceptional value for a commuter e-bike. The Brose motor, hydraulic disc brakes, and long range make it a compelling choice for riders on a budget. However, taller riders may want to consider the XR model for a better fit, and those who prefer a more comfortable ride on rough surfaces may want to look at a full-suspension e-bike.
Alternative E-Bikes to Consider
- Specialized Turbo Vado SL 2: A high-performance e-bike with a lightweight frame, powerful motor, and long range. However, it comes at a significantly higher price point than the Ride1UP Prodigy ST.
- Mokwheel Mesa Plus ST: Another affordable e-bike with a mid-drive motor and hydraulic disc brakes. However, it may not offer the same level of quality components as the Ride1UP Prodigy ST.
Leave a comment below and share your experience with e-bikes. What do you love most about them? What are your biggest concerns?
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.
