Propella’s 9S Pro V2 is the first step-thru option from the Washington-state based ebike company. Even at the recommended price of $1,399 it’s great value, but the current sale price of $1299 is awesome.
Although the step-thru is designed to be “ideal” for riders from 5’3” to 5’11”, with an 18” standover height it’s still comfortable for those 6 feet tall. A step-over version is available too, fitting riders from 5′ 3″ to 6’4″. Not only does the step-thru make this ebike accessible but weight is also a large factor. Without fenders, the 9S Pro V2 is super lightweight compared to many on the market, at just 43.5lb.
Read on to find out more about the latest ebike innovation from Propella and click below for our in-depth video review, featuring first-person riding footage. You can find our review of previous Propella iterations here and if you decide you want to go ahead and purchase the Propella 9S Pro V2, please support Ebike Escape by using our affilate links.
Propella 9S Pro V2 Video Review
Streamlined Electronics
Propella has opted for streamlined electronics from European company Mivice, enhancing efficiency and bringing SGS certifications, UL 2271 and UL 2849, which is especially important for NYC-based bikers.
Lightweight means a small battery, of 36V, 9.6Ah, but it is well integrated below the frame, UL certified and possible to charge on and off the bike. The power level indicator is helpful too.
Mivice’s LCD color display is also small, but effectively shows all key information, with the power button at top. Large speed digits appear front and center with other data options to cycle through above it including battery capacity, range, and trip information. One note about the range estimate is it takes into consideration not only your pedal assist level, but also your speed and torque (human power).
A pedal assist button is at the base of display, with levels 1 to 4 and Max and holding the minus button provides a useful ‘Push’ mode for ease of walking the ebike along. The 9S Pro V2 is fitted with a more sophisticated torque sensor, to better utilize rider-effort. The more effort you put in, the more power you’ll get from the motor.
This makes the 9S Pro V2 one of the most affordable torque sensor ebikes on the market but even more, the torque sensor feels great. It’s immediately responsive and feels like a much more premium experience than you’d expect from an ebike at this price.
Motor, Gears and Brakes
Mivice’s 350W nominal, 500W peak, hub motor enhances the experience with its gentle power delivery. Propella ships this model at Class 1, with a top speed of 20MPH, without throttle. Range estimates are given up to 50 miles, but you should expect less traveling at higher speeds in higher pedal assist levels. Though range is helped by the efficiency gains of the torque sensor.
The 9S Pro V2 utilizes Shimano’s CUES shifter and rear derailleur, their latest, entry-level gear set, offering 9 gears. The CUES range is likely to be the next, branded standard for ebikes, which it is so well suited to, especially on this model, paired with a durable Shimano Linkglide 11-32T cassette.
Hydraulic disk brakes are from the Logan brand with modest 160mm rotors. Again, the lightness of this ebike permits smaller rotors. For the same reason, there is no suspension on this model.
Styling and Strength
It’s great to have the strength of a thru-axel on the front wheel. The wheels themselves are Propella’s signature blue, styling which is carried through to the seat and locking grips. CST Brooklyn Pro tires with street tread and reflective sidewall complete the look, measuring 27.5” x 2″.
Handlebars are slightly swept for a comfortable riding position, further enhanced by an adjustable stem. A Star Union, 40 Lux headlight is integrated into the frame, though there is no rear light. Plastic fenders for front and rear are included, as is a kickstand and Neco metal pedals.
Conclusion
The Propella 9S Pro V2 is an easy to use ebike which offers great design at an affordable price for recreational riders. Although there is no suspension and no throttle and the motor and battery are small, the payoff is that it keeps the weight down. This is a factor that many don’t consider when purchasing their first ebike.
Propella as a company has been around since 2016 and they offer US-based customer support. We’re happy to see them finally offer a step-thru and with the features of this ebike, we expect this to be a best seller for the company.
