I've Cycled for 20 Years and Own 4 Electric Bikes—This Lightweight One Is Perfect for Travel

Travel + Leisure

3 days ago

Getting around on two wheels has long been my preferred mode of travel—both at home and when exploring a new destination. After more than 20 years of owning various bikes and exclusively riding the self-powered variety, I've become a recent convert to electric bikes. The extra boost from e-bike pedal assistance has come in handy for navigating traffic and racking up more miles when I'm exploring a new destination. I also appreciate that electric bikes make cycling more accessible to all types of riders while providing a sustainable alternative to driving.
Among the many electric bike models out there, the Priority Current Plus is my favorite for the long-lasting battery and thrilling speed it offers alongside automated safety features and a relaxed riding position. Not to mention, the large size weighs just 55 pounds and is compatible with most hitch racks for use on road trips. After months of riding, I've analyzed the e-bike's performance and standout features, plus highlighted some other electric bike models I like and would recommend to certain travelers. Credit: Priority View on Prioritybicycles.com
Many electric bikes fall into one of two buckets: souped-up, moped-style models or conventional-looking bikes with modest pedal assistance. The Current Plus delivers an ideal middle ground with its sizable battery, powerful motor, 5-speed gear system, and five levels of pedal assistance that are capable of sprinting at high speeds or going the distance at a more gradual pace.
The 500W motor can reach a top speed of 28 mph, while the 720Wh battery is capable of going 75 miles on level 1 pedal assistance. I appreciate that both pieces of hardware are neatly integrated in the middle of the bike frame for aesthetics and weight distribution, too. Do keep in mind that the e-bike arrives as a class 2 (max speed of 20 mph) and the settings must be updated to increase to class 3 (max speed of 28 mph), but check local speed laws for e-bikes before doing so. Credit: Travel + Leisure
Credit: Travel + Leisure
Credit: Travel + Leisure
Credit: Travel + Leisure
Level 1 or 2 pedal assistance has proven to be a sufficient boost for riding on more gentle terrain. Shifting to a higher gear helps pick up the pace on this mid-weight bike without too much additional pedaling effort. When approaching inclines, I can typically shift between the five gears without needing to dial up the pedal assistance beyond level 3.
Priority also added a throttle—positioned on the left handlebar—to rapidly gain speed or cruise along without any pedaling power. The throttle is very responsive, making it great to use in short spurts to get going from a hard stop or to maneuver around other cyclists and traffic as needed. Granted, engaging it for extended periods will quickly drain the battery, though I found that occasional use didn't noticeably impact the battery life.
In addition to pedal assistance, the relaxed, upright riding position makes the Current Plus a joy to ride. I'm 6-feet, 5-inches tall and had no issues adjusting the handlebar stem and seat post on my bike. (I tested the large size, though it's also available in medium and small.) The handlebars are also among the most ergonomic I've seen. In Priority's words, the handlebars have a '17-degree back sweep and a 20mm rise,' but I would emphasize how the tapered and tilted profile creates a more natural grip. I felt more in control of the bike as a result, and not once did I feel strain or pressure in my hands. Credit: Travel + Leisure
Credit: Travel + Leisure
The Current Plus' gel-padded saddle is also more plush than the typical bike seat that also comes included, and it's been perfectly sufficient for multi-hour rides, even without wearing padded bike shorts. Though this offers some cushion against bumps in the road, having some front wheel suspension would be desirable for a future enhancement.
I appreciate that the Current Plus has user-friendly controls and a number of integrated safety features, effectively allowing me to keep my focus on the road and taking in the passing scenery. The backlit display is easy to read, even on a bright sunny day. I also like that it prioritizes the information I'm most frequently checking: the level of pedal assistance, remaining battery life, and speed.
Hitting the 'i' button on the left handlebar control lets you toggle between other information, including the trip distance, odometer, and average and top speeds. I love the simplicity of the controls and its oversized buttons, letting me increase or decrease pedal assistance or switch on the headlights without having to take my eyes off the road.
The automated light settings also do the work for me in switching on the headlights. At 600 lumens, they're plenty bright for illuminating the path ahead and ensuring you're visible to traffic. Another safety perk is that braking automatically cuts the motor and switches on the tail lights. The red LEDs get brighter the harder you brake as well. Credit: Travel + Leisure
Credit: Travel + Leisure
I've been continually impressed with the quality of materials and components used in the Current Plus. In addition to previously mentioned features, the aluminum frame, kickstand, and puncture-resistant tires all feel sturdy and well-made.
The front and rear mudguards have done a great job at keeping me and the bike frame clean after months of use. I tested the five-speed Shimano gear system, which is specifically designed for electric bikes and offers seamless shifting. Alternatively, the Enviolo version provides an automatic gear system that spans a continuous gear range and is capable of shifting, whether you're pedaling or not. With either gear system, you'll have a carbon belt drive that doesn't require any lubing to maintain like you would with a chain drive. Credit: Travel + Leisure
Credit: Travel + Leisure
While I love the Priority Current Plus for its versatility and all-around performance, there are other electric bikes geared toward more specific uses and riding styles. Here are a few other e-bike models we've tested and enjoy.
Kevin Brouillard is a contributing writer at Travel + Leisure , specializing in outdoor gear and apparel. An avid bike rider, he regularly rides on a variety of electric bikes around his home in upstate New York and he's even pedaled from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to Da Nang, Vietnam, so he knows the importance of quality cycling gear. For this article, he used his first-hand experience testing a variety of electric bike models to find the best options for different trips, features, and budgets.
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