Are you tired of the daily grind and looking for a way to spice up your commute? Look no further than Velotric’s latest offerings, the Discover 2 and Discover 1.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the details and compare these two power-packed e-bikes, helping you make an informed decision on which one best suits your needs.
Velotric Discover 1
When the Velotric Discover 1 first hit the market, it was like a breath of fresh air for riders seeking a premium e-bike experience without breaking the bank. Let’s take a closer look at what made this model stand out:
Specs and Features
- Motor Power: 500W nominal, 900W peak
- Battery: 48V, 14.4Ah (691.2Wh), UL 2271 Recognized
- Range: Up to 65 miles
- Top Speed: 25 mph
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes (180mm rotors)
- Suspension: 80mm hydraulic fork with lockout
- Extras: LCD display, integrated lights, rear rack, fenders
The Discover 1 boasted a powerful motor capable of tackling hills with ease, thanks to its impressive 65Nm of torque. Its long-range battery and sleek design made it a true standout in the commuter e-bike market.
Performance and Riding Experience
While the Discover 1 didn’t feature a torque sensor, its cadence sensor provided a smooth pedal-assist experience. The hydraulic brakes ensured reliable stopping power, and the suspension fork offered a comfortable ride on varied terrain.
Overall, the Discover 1 delivered a premium-feeling e-bike experience at a not-so-premium price, making it an attractive option for many riders.
Velotric Discover 2
Just when you thought Velotric couldn’t possibly top their previous success, they unleashed the Velotric Discover 2 – a true game-changer in the world of commuter electric bikes. Get ready to be blown away by its impressive specs and features:
Specs and Features
- Motor Power: 750W continuous (1,100W peak), 75Nm torque
- Battery: 48V, 14.7Ah (705.6Wh), Samsung/LG cells
- Range: Up to 75 miles
- Top Speed: 28 mph (Class 3)
- Brakes: 180mm hydraulic disc brakes
- Suspension: 80mm hydraulic fork
- Certifications: UL2849 & UL2271 for battery and e-bike system, plus 150% of ISO 4210.
- Extras: Torque sensor, 15 pedal assist levels, Apple Find My, turn signals, adjustable handlebars, cruise control, and more!
| Feature | Discover 1 | Discover 2 |
| Motor Power | 500W (900W peak) | 750W (1,100W peak) |
| Torque | 65Nm | 75Nm |
| Battery | 691.2Wh | 705.6Wh |
| Range | Up to 65 miles | Up to 75 miles |
| Top Speed | 25 mph | 28 mph (Class 3) |
| Pedal Assist Levels | 5 levels | 15 levels (3 modes) |
| Sensor Type | Cadence | Torque |
| Additional Features | – | Apple Find My, Turn Signals, Cruise Control, Adjustable Handlebars |
Performance and Riding Experience
The Discover 2 takes performance to a whole new level with its powerful 750W motor and whopping 75Nm of torque. Coupled with the torque sensor, this bike delivers an incredibly natural and responsive pedal-assist experience that will blow your mind.
But that’s not all – with 15 pedal assist levels across three distinct modes (Eco, Trail, and Boost), you can customize your riding experience to perfection, whether you’re tackling city commutes or hitting the trails.
And let’s not forget about the incredible range! With up to 75 miles on a single charge, the Discover 2 will have you zipping past gas stations without a second thought.
Range and Battery Life: Going the Distance
When it comes to range and battery life, both e-bikes are no slouches. The Velotric Discover 2 boasts a massive 48V 14.7Ah (705 Wh) battery pack with certified Samsung/LG cells, allowing you to ride up to a whopping 75 miles on a single charge (in pedal assist mode).
The Discover 1, on the other hand, comes with a slightly smaller 48V, 14.4Ah (692Wh) battery, but still manages to deliver an impressive range of up to 65 miles. However, real-world testing showed that the Discover 1 struggled to meet its claimed 65-mile range, with reviewers averaging around 50 miles in the highest pedal assist setting.
So, if you’re looking for an e-bike that can take you farther without having to worry about running out of juice, the Discover 2 is the clear winner.
Comfort and Convenience: Riding in Style
Both the Discover 2 and Discover 1 were designed with comfort and convenience in mind, but the Discover 2 takes things to a whole new level.
First, let’s talk about suspension. The Discover 2 comes equipped with an 80 mm travel hydraulic suspension fork, which not only provides a smoother ride over rough terrain but also feels more high-end and responsive compared to the Discover 1’s 65mm spring suspension fork.
Next up, brakes. The Discover 2 features 180mm hydraulic disc brakes, which offer superior stopping power and modulation compared to the Discover 1’s unbranded mechanical disc brakes.
But wait, there’s more! The Discover 2 also boasts a color display with USB-C phone charger, integrated front and rear lights (including brake light and rear turn signals), cruise control, 66 lbs MIK HD rear rack, Kenda Puncture resistant tires, a locking battery, Apple Find My geolocating tracker and adjustable handlebars. Talk about bells and whistles!
In contrast, the Discover 1 keeps things a bit simpler with integrated lights, fenders, and a rear rack.
Pricing and Value: Getting Your Money’s Worth
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – pricing. The Velotric Discover 2 comes in at a cool $1,699, while the Discover 1 is currently on sale for $1,099 (regular price $1,599).
At first glance, the Discover 2 may seem like a pricier option, but when you consider all the advanced features and components it offers, it’s easy to see why it commands a higher price tag.
On the other hand, the Discover 1 is an excellent value proposition for those on a tighter budget. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of its big brother, it still delivers solid performance and a premium riding experience at a more accessible price point.
The Verdict: Which E-Bike Should You Choose?
So, which e-bike should you choose? Well, it ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.
Go for the Velotric Discover 1 if:
- You’re on a tighter budget but still want a premium e-bike experience.
- You don’t need the extra power and torque of the Discover 2.
- You’re primarily commuting on paved roads and don’t require the advanced features of the Discover 2.
Go for the Velotric Discover 2 if:
- You want the ultimate in performance and power, with a torque sensor for a truly natural riding experience.
- You need the extra range and top speed for longer commutes or occasional off-road adventures.
- You appreciate the advanced features like Apple Find My, turn signals, cruise control, and adjustable handlebars.
Whichever model you choose, one thing is certain: Velotric has raised the bar for affordable, high-quality UL-certified electric bikes. Their commitment to innovation and rider satisfaction is evident in every detail of the Discover 1 and Discover 2 models.
However, if it was just to pick one electric bike I would without a doubt choose Velotric Discover 2. It has those exciting features and that extra performance.
Conclusion
In the battle between the Velotric Discover 2 and Discover 1, obviously, the Discover 2 is a clear winner. However, it all comes down to your personal preferences and riding needs. But one thing is for sure, Velotric has proven that you don’t have to compromise on quality or performance to find an ebike that fits your budget.
So, what are you waiting for? Hop on over to Velotric’s website, check out their latest offerings, and get ready to experience the thrill of electric cycling like never before!
