2023 Ride1UP

Portola

Ride1UP has delivered incredible value with the Portola; $1000 e-bikes almost never have a collection of parts this good.

The folding frame is small enough to offer a low standover height (18.2 in.) which makes it great for smaller riders. Some taller riders may have trouble getting enough leg extension. Ordering a longer seatpost through a shop is possible. The Portola is easy to fold and unfold and features safety features to make unfolding it safe and foolproof.

The 750W, 65Nm torque, brushless, geared hub motor is very peppy. Not only does it climb well, but it has terrific acceleration from a dead stop. A 24-magnet cadence sensor makes the motor much more responsive than we typically experience with other e-bikes with cadence sensors. Most have 12 magnets, but this 24 magnet sensor is more than twice as fast to react.

Ride1UP ships the Portola as a Class 2 e-bike. It can be unlocked so that it can reach Class 3 speeds—a maximum of 28 mph on pedal assist. It can also be set up for Class 1 operation in case throttles aren’t allowed in your community. The 8-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain features a wide gear range (almost 300 percent) and one more gear than we typically see in this price range. See Latest Price

Value priced

Comfortable ride

Versatile passenger option

Rack holds 130 pounds

Limited adjustability

Cadence sensor

Folded size

750W brushless geared hub motor produces 65Nm of torque is more powerful than we typically see on a folding e-bike

Consumers can choose between batteries with either 500Wh capacity or 643Wh with a very reasonable upcharge for the larger battery

Comes with an 8-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain, which is quite rare at this price point

Hydraulic disc brakes are also seldomly-seen at this price, and they work well to boot.

Comes with a full range of accessories for commuters including rear rack, fenders, front and rear lights and a kickstand

Because the rear rack is integrated into the frame for greater strength, it has a higher-than-usual weight capacity of 130 lbs (and works with a passenger package or Thule child seats).

80mm-travel suspension fork smooths rough roads

Can be unlocked to go Class 3 speeds.

Fits a wide range of riders. People 4’10” up to 6’4” can ride the Portola but…

The Leg extension is a bit on the short side. Riders on the taller end will want to lean into motor help to not tire your legs out.