Introduction
The electric bike market has seen a surge of affordable options in recent years, and one of the standout models is the Ride1Up Turris. Priced at $1,195, the Turris is part of Ride1Up’s commuter-focused lineup, delivering impressive features and performance at a price point that makes electric bike ownership accessible to more riders. In this in-depth review, we’ll take a close look at the Turris’ design, components, ride quality, and overall value proposition.
Click here for all of Ebike Escape’s Ride1Up reviews and watch our video walkaround Of the Turris with first-person riding footage below:
Ride1Up Turris Video Review
Design and Geometry of the Ride1Up Turris
Ride1Up offers the Turris in two distinct frame styles – a step-through (ST) and a high-step (XR). The step-through version, which was the focus of our testing, features a low standover height of 23 inches, making mounting and dismounting the bike easy, especially for shorter riders or those with mobility concerns.
The handlebars on the step-through model have a pronounced swept-back design, resulting in a more upright and comfortable riding position ideal for urban commuting or touring.
In contrast, the high-step frame provides a slightly more aggressive riding posture, with handlebars that offer a more traditional, forward-leaning position. The high-step model has a standover height of 30 inches. Both frame options accommodate a wide range of rider heights, with the step-through suitable for those between 5’1″ and 6’2″, and the high-step catering to riders from 5’6″ to 6’4″.
Assembly
Assembling the Ride1Up Turris requires a bit more effort compared to some ebikes, but it’s manageable for those with moderate mechanical skills. When you receive the bike, it will arrive approximately 85% pre-assembled. The components that require assembly include the front fork, right-side crank, handlebars, rear light, and front hydraulic disc brake. Additionally, you’ll need to attach the front wheel and align the brake calipers properly. The pedals, and kickstand also need to be installed.
Ride1Up provides tools and a manual to guide you through the process (the videos however are better), but if you’re not confident in your assembly skills, it’s recommended to have a local bike shop complete the final assembly and adjustments to ensure the bike is safe and properly set up for your first ride.
Components and Features of the Ride1Up Turris
Motor and Battery
One of the Turris’ standout features is its impressive component lineup for the price point. The bike is powered by a 750W sustained-output motor from AKM (previously Bafang motors were used), paired with a 48V, 14Ah battery pack. This battery capacity is on par with many more expensive electric bikes, providing a range of 30-50 miles, depending on riding conditions and assist level.
Brakes
Braking duties are handled by hydraulic disc brakes from LBN, which offer excellent stopping power and modulation. This is an upgrade from the Ebike Escape team’s perspective as the Zoom hydraulic disc brakes were prone to feeling spongy over time and needing maintenance.
Suspension
The Trama front suspension fork, while basic, provides some shock absorption and features preload adjustment and a lockout function. Travel is 100mm.
Tires
The Kenda Booster tires, measuring 27.5 x 2.4 inches, have a hybrid tread pattern that balances on-road efficiency with mild off-road capability, making the Turris suitable for a variety of terrains. These touring tires are unique in their versatility and capability. If you’re on the lookout for a more budget-oriented bike without slick tires, this might be it. Plus, we love the tan side-walls which add to the look, especially on the graphite gray colorway.
Drivetrain
The drivetrain of the Ride1Up Turris is sufficient for commuting and casual riding. It features a 7-speed Shimano Altus derailleur paired with a Shimano thumb shifter, which is common on entry-level ebikes. The 7-speed system provides adequate gearing, allowing riders to easily adjust their pedaling effort based on terrain. The combination of a 12-32T cassette and a 46T Prowheel Alloy chainring ensures a balanced range of gears, making it easier to climb hills or maintain speed on flat roads.
Accessories
Ride1Up has also included several accessories, such as metal fenders, a rear-mounted kickstand, and integrated lights front and rear. While a rear rack is not included, the bike does feature mounting points for one, allowing users to easily add this useful accessory.
Performance and Ride Quality of the Ride1Up Turris
On the road, the Ride1Up Turris delivers a smooth and responsive riding experience. The pedal-assist system utilizes a current-based cadence sensor, providing natural and intuitive power delivery compared to their speed-based counterparts. Riders can choose from five levels of pedal assist, with the ability to fine-tune the power output for each level through the bike’s display settings. This is still a feature that surprisingly other brands haven’t adopted.
Speed and Handling
During our testing, we found the Turris to be capable of maintaining speeds up to 28 mph in the highest pedal-assist mode, though the motor will cut off at 20 mph when using the throttle alone. The bike’s handling is nimble and predictable, making it well-suited for navigating urban environments and light off-road excursions.
Hill Climbing
When tackling hills, the Turris’ motor provided ample power, allowing us to maintain a minimum speed of 13 mph even on steeper inclines on throttle alone. While not as powerful as motors that peak much higher, it should be adequate for most riders. The hydraulic disc brakes consistently delivered reliable and controlled braking, instilling confidence in the bike’s overall safety and stability.
Key Specifications of the Ride1Up Turris
- Motor: 750W sustained-output motor from AKM
- Battery: 48V, 14Ah
- Range: 30-50 miles
- Brakes: LBN hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors
- Tires: Kenda Booster 27.5 x 2.4 inches
- Suspension: 100mm front suspension fork with preload adjustment and lockout
- Weight: 54 lbs (lighter than most electric bikes)
- Payload Capacity: 300 lbs
- Frame Options: Step-Through and High-Step
- Colors: Forest Green, Ivory White, Graphite Gray
Pros and Cons of the Ride1Up Turris
Pros
- Affordable price point without sacrificing component quality
- Versatile hybrid tire design for varied terrain
- Adjustable pedal assist levels for a customized riding experience
- Powerful hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power
- Integrated front and rear lights for improved visibility
Cons
- Assembly requires more effort compared to other direct to consumer ebikes
- No included rear rack, though one is available as an accessory
- Basic suspension fork, though suitable for most commuting needs
Value and Conclusion
At its current price point of $1,195, the Ride1Up Turris represents an exceptional value proposition in the electric bike market especially for those looking for a full-sized (not folding) ebike. By offering impressive features typically found on more expensive models, Ride1Up has created a commuter-focused electric bike that caters to a wide range of riders, from urban dwellers to recreational enthusiasts. Ride1Up, in business since 2018, has steadily built a reputation for high-quality, value-packed commuter ebikes. As a direct-to-consumer company, Ride1Up keeps prices low by eliminating the middleman.
While the assembly process may require more effort than some fully assembled bikes, the Turris’ well-designed components and features make it a compelling choice for those seeking an affordable, yet highly capable electric bike. Whether you’re looking to replace your daily commute or embark on leisurely weekend rides, the Ride1Up Turris is a well-rounded electric companion worth considering.
