Snapcycle R1 Review: Both Regular and Step-Thru Version
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Electric bikes have certainly come in handy since their invention back in the late 90s. From powerful engine motors to long-lasting batteries, an e-bike’s features can be endless. As a result, it may be confusing trying to choose the right electric bicycle.
No worries, though. In this guide, our main aim is to provide you with a fully detailed Snapcycle R1 review. We go through the pros and cons of both the regular and step-thru version of this incredible bicycle, while also answering your most frequently asked questions.
Let’s ride it out!
Table of Contents
Snapcycle R1 Review
Before we go into the differences and similarities between the regular and step-thru Snapcycle R1 model, we need to take you through a complete overview of this e-bike first.
Below, you’ll find a thorough account of every feature this bike has to offer its riders. This way you can decide if this product is made for you or not.
Motor Power
At 750W, this bicycle’s hub motor delivers its rider a great amount of power. It may not be as strong as a mid-drive engine, but its technology gives the buyer high value and at a reasonable price.
Not just that, but the rear side of the Snapcycle R1 has 1,200W of peak power and additionally, 85 Nm (Newton meter) of torque. In other words, this bike can withstand all sorts of weather conditions, including snow, rain, and strong winds.
Battery Type
The Snapcycle R1 has a premium, long-lasting, and fast-charging 48V Samsung Lithium-Ion battery. It features a thermal protection system that prolongs the battery’s life expectancy too.
For a sleek look, the battery is fully integrated into the mainframe of the bike. It’s accessed through a keyhole and comes with a safety latch that holds the battery in place. The charger is also small and easy to carry around with you on long rides.
Design
Both the regular and step-thru R1 feature an adjustable, diamond-shaped saddle made from comfortable foam. The step-over model, though, is a solid bike with a stronger frame that makes it a powerful climber of hills and slopes.
That said, this product has a built-in, back-lit LED display frame that shows the rider vital information, such as battery life, covered mileage, and speed. This advantage is present in each model too.
Additionally, the R1 models have two sets of lights. The headlight system is operated safely from the display controls, while the taillights are battery-operated. This advantage can be quite useful on the road.
Performance
An e-bike performs best when the requirements of weight and height are met. So, with that in mind, the Snapcycle R1 is designed to carry up to 270 pounds and is suitable for riders from 5’3 to 6’4 inches tall.
When it comes to the braking system’s efficiency, Snapcycle has you covered. With muffled resin pads, plus rear and front disc motors of 180 mm, this bike always comes to a smooth stop. The automatic caliper will have your back when the bicycle gets out of hand too.
Mechanism
Either Snapcycle R1 supports a pedal-assist mode and not just an electrically powered one. Its mileage covers a 45-mile range on pedal mode and a 30-mile one when operating on power.
The model also features a half-twist throttle that prevents the engine from starting on its own, eliminating many possible risks. This makes the step-thru version an ideal option for those with disabilities and elderly people.
Tires
Either R1 model is manufactured with fat, ultra-wide tires. Because of that, riders can successfully operate their bikes through mountains, muddy hills, and other harsh terrains.
Not just that, but multi-surface technology is used in both R1 bicycles which offers cyclists enough grip and maneuverability. Besides, whether it’s the regular or the step-thru version, each comes in a sleek, black color so you can ride around in style.
The Snapcycle R1’s Shortcomings
Because the regular Snapcycle R1 was manufactured with durability in mind, the bike’s components are pretty heavy. This sometimes affects performance since the bicycle can be slow to accelerate and engage.
Additionally, the model is only fitted for six-speed cassettes. Its tires aren’t particularly knobby, which makes it harder to cut corners smoothly too.
On the other hand, the main disadvantage of the step-thru Snapcycle R1 is its shape. For instance, the step-thru model lacks the sturdy, top frame the regular one has. This equals less support while riding and makes the bike less safe to operate on harsh terrains.
The inner construction of the step-thru’s frame is also quite delicate so people can easily mount on and dismount the bicycle’s saddle. The only downside to this is that most of the weight shifts onto the frames, making the bike more susceptible to damage.
Not just that, but the disproportioned distribution of weight may cause a turnover on slopes and high hills.
This model also features mechanical disc brakes despite it being an electric bike.
What’s the Difference Between a Regular and a Step-Thru Snapcycle R1?
Both R1 models share a few features in common despite operating differently. They may be designed to serve different purposes, but certain technical aspects are similar in both versions.
A keen cyclist, though, should be aware of the main differences between regular and step-thru bikes.
For starters, regular bicycles are more commonly called step-over bikes. That’s mainly due to the shape of their frame which typically looks like a diamond or a triangle.
The design for the step-thru, on the other hand, didn’t come around until the late 19th century. This bicycle was made to serve quite a vital purpose and that is to allow skirt and dress wearers to get on their bikes without having to ‘step over’ the frame.
When to Choose a Regular E-bike
Their durability and stability are what helped regular e-bikes gain popularity. Not only that, but their frames are lightweight which helps the bike perform well on harsh terrains, such as hills and slopes.
Keeping the above in mind, we recommend choosing a regular bike frame if you’re an adventure lover and would love to own a ride that’ll take you anywhere safely.
When to Choose a Step-Thru E-bike
Unlike regular bikes, step-thru bicycles are constantly being upgraded. This frame has overcome many of its counterpart’s shortcomings. As a result, step-thru bikes are an ideal option for those looking for easy maneuverability.
Since they don’t require much effort to operate, we suggest going with a step-thru bike. That is if your needs are limited to running errands, commuting to work in style, or quick evening laps.
3 Features to Consider before Buying an E-bike
Now that you have a basic understanding of the R1 model’s primary characteristics and know the difference between the regular and step-thru version, it’s time to go through the main three features you should keep in mind before buying an e-bike.
Battery
Battery life and manufacturing are a vital part of owning anything electronic. Every e-bike uses a different brand name and size of rechargeable Lithium-Ion batteries. That’s why it’s quite important to check the history of your battery before purchasing the bicycle.
Fortunately, the Snapcylce R1 has an integrated battery that fully charges in under five hours and lasts up to 45 miles.
Weight
Manufacturers are often untruthful about how much their e-bikes can carry. In some cases, they advertise a lower minimum capacity than the product can carry to make sure that the bike remains functional.
In other words, while the R1 model can carry around 270 pounds, no problem, it’s not always recommended that it should.
Power
E-bikes mix manual paddling with an electric, pedal-assist mode, otherwise known as the pedelec system. Some also feature a throttle mode that purely runs on electricity. You should pick according to your needs.
For the Snapcycle R1, this e-bike integrates both pedal-assist and throttle which makes it suitable for those with knee problems or who want to benefit from exercise.
FAQs
Is the Snapcycle R1 Waterproof?
This model was manufactured to be water and dust-resistant. This means, either version of the bike is more than suited to withstand the elements. This doesn’t mean it’s safe to regularly expose your ride to harsh weather conditions, though.
Which R1 Model Is the Best?
Which Snapcycle model best suits you will ultimately depend on what you’re planning on using your new bike for. The step-thru version is great for short, quick rides around the town while the regular one is ideal for longer, more adventurous trips.
Final Say
In this guide, our main goal was to provide you with an essential Snapcycle R1 review for both the manufacturer’s regular and step-thru versions of this bike.
While both products share some similarities, their purposes can’t be intertwined. The rider’s needs were kept in mind when designing each e-bike. That’s why the features they have in common are for your convenience.
Regardless of your choice, either bike is guaranteed to last with you. Not only that, with either of these eBikes, you’re also in for a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable cycling experience!
