The Velotric Nomad 1 Plus is a standout in the ebike market, offering a blend of comfort, power, and affordability that’s hard to beat. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore what sets this fat tire ebike apart, delve into its specifications with detailed commentary, and provide riding impressions to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you. Let’s get started!
Velotric Nomad 1 Plus Video Review
What Does the “Plus” Mean?
The “Plus” in Velotric Nomad 1 Plus signifies several upgrades that enhance the overall riding experience:
- Adjustable Stem: This addition allows riders to customize their handlebar height and angle, promoting better posture and reducing strain on long rides. It’s a feature not commonly found in fat tire ebikes.
- Higher Speeds: The Nomad 1 Plus now reaches speeds up to 28 mph, elevating it to a Class 3 ebike. This is a considerable upgrade for those who need that extra speed.
- Reduced Weight: A slight reduction in weight improves handling and maneuverability, making it easier to navigate through various terrains.
Velotric has been proactive in updating their models with these “Plus” enhancements, including the T1 ST Plus and the Discover 1 Plus. They’ve also expanded their lineup with specialized ebikes like the Packer 1 cargo ebike and the Go 1 utility-style ebike. You can explore all our Velotric reviews here.
Key Specifications with Commentary
Price
- Starting at $1,399 (Check Latest Price)This price point is highly competitive for a fat tire ebike with these features. It offers excellent value for riders looking for a reliable and capable ebike without breaking the bank.
Frame Options
- Step-Through and High-Step Designs The availability of both frame types ensures that riders of different heights and preferences can find a comfortable fit. The step-through model is particularly accessible, making mounting and dismounting easier.
Colors
A variety of color options allows riders to choose a style that suits their personality. The Indigo Grey is sleek and modern, while options like Mango and Cyan add a vibrant touch.
- Step-Through: Indigo Grey, Forest, Mango, Cyan
- High-Step: Indigo Grey, and Forest
Rider Height Compatibility
This wide range of adjustability means that the Nomad 1 Plus can accommodate a broad spectrum of riders, making it a versatile choice for households with multiple riders.
- Step-Through: 5’1″ to 6’4″
- High-Step: 5’6″ to 6’9″
Weight
The weight of the bike tipped our scale around 85 lbs compared to Velotric’s provided weights below.
- Step-Through: 70 lbs
- High-Step: 71 lbs
Weight Capacity
- Up to 440 lbs This impressive weight capacity is a testament to the bike’s sturdy construction. It not only allows for heavier riders but also provides the flexibility to carry cargo, making it suitable for errands or commuting.
Certification
- Tested to ISO 4210 Standards ISO 4210 certification ensures that the bike meets international safety and performance standards for bicycles. This adds a layer of trust in the bike’s durability and quality.
Braking System
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes with 180mm Rotors While it’s always nice to see brand name components we recognize, these unbranded hydraulic disc brakes performed just fine in our testing.
Tires and Wheels
- CST BFT 26″ x 4″ Fat Tires These tires are designed for off-road capability, providing excellent traction on various terrains like sand, snow, and gravel. The larger contact patch enhances stability, making your ride smoother and safer.
- Bolt-On Axles Bolt-on axles provide a secure attachment for the wheels, reducing the risk of theft and enhancing the bike’s robustness when tackling rough terrains. On other Velotric ebikes we’ve seen them move to thru-axles which would be a nice touch on the next generation Nomad 1.
Fenders and Suspension
- Full Plastic Fenders The inclusion of full fenders is a practical feature, keeping you clean and dry in wet or muddy conditions. While plastic fenders are lightweight and resistant to rust, they are also durable enough for daily use.
- Hydraulic Suspension Fork with 80mm Travel The suspension fork absorbs shocks from bumps and rough surfaces, reducing fatigue on your hands and arms. The 80mm travel is sufficient for most urban and light off-road conditions. It did feel improved upon from the first generation Nomad we tested.
Lighting
- 60 Lux Headlight A bright headlight is essential for night riding, and 60 Lux provides decent illumination.
- Brake-Actuated Rear Light The rear light enhances your visibility to others on the road, and being brake-actuated alerts traffic behind you when you’re slowing down or stopping.
Cockpit and Controls
- Adjustable Stem (0° to 60°)The adjustable stem allows you to fine-tune your riding position for comfort or performance. Whether you prefer an upright posture for leisurely rides or a more aggressive stance for speed, this feature accommodates both.
- Swept-Back Handlebars These handlebars bring the grips closer to the rider, reducing the reach and promoting a more relaxed shoulder position.
- Ergonomic Locking Grips Comfortable grips reduce hand fatigue on long rides, and the locking mechanism prevents them from rotating or slipping.
- Shimano 8-Speed Trigger Shifter Shimano‘s trigger shifter allows for quick and precise gear changes and is a step up from the most entry level Shimano thumb shifters we might otherwise expect at this price.
- Velotric Monochrome Display While a color display would be a nice touch, the monochrome screen is clear and easy to read even in bright sunlight. It provides essential information like speed, battery level, and trip distance.
- USB-A Port A handy feature for charging your phone on the go, ensuring you stay connected during your ride.
Battery and Charging
- 48V 14.4Ah (691Wh) Battery This battery offers a solid capacity for extended rides. Depending on your usage, you can expect a respectable range that covers daily commutes or leisurely weekend excursions. Riders should expect up to 50 miles in the lowest pedal assist.
- Top-Loaded Battery Design The top-loading mechanism makes it convenient to remove and install the battery, especially when compared to bottom-mounted designs that can be cumbersome.
- IPX7 Battery Rating An IPX7 rating means the battery can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This provides peace of mind when riding in the rain or through puddles. The entire bike is IPX6 rated.
- UL Certifications (Battery: UL 2271, Bike: UL 2849) UL certification is an independent safety standard. Having both the battery and the entire bike certified ensures that the electrical components meet rigorous safety requirements.
- 3 Amp Charger A higher amperage charger reduces charging time to under 5 hours from empty, minimizing downtime between rides.
Motor and Drivetrain
- 750W Continuous/1200 Watts Peak Rear Hub Motor This powerful motor provides strong acceleration and can handle hills and rough terrains.
- Cadence Sensor The cadence sensor detects when you pedal and assists accordingly. More on this below.
- Shimano Altus Derailleur with 8-Speed Cassette (13-34T)The Altus series is a step above entry-level components, offering smoother and more reliable shifting. The 13-34T rear cassette paired with a 46-tooth front chainring provides a versatile range for climbing hills and achieving higher speeds on flats.
Riding Experience
First-Person Riding Impressions
- Throttle Performance The throttle is responsive and powerful, reaching speeds over 28 mph. However, it’s important to note that when set to Class 3, the throttle doesn’t cut off at 20 mph, which might not comply with certain local regulations.
- Pedal Assist Levels The five pedal assist levels are speed-capped, meaning each level limits the maximum speed rather than adjusting the power output. This design allows for consistent assistance up to the set speed, but some riders might prefer more nuanced power control.
- Level 1: Up to 14 mph
- Level 2: Up to 17 mph
- Level 3: Up to 21 mph
- Level 4: Up to 24 mph
- Level 5: Up to 28 mph
- Hill Climbing The motor handles inclines impressively. Even on steep hills, the bike maintains speeds around 15-16 mph without significant strain, thanks to the high torque and power output.
- Comfort The combination of the adjustable stem, swept-back handlebars, and plush saddle results in a comfortable ride, reducing fatigue on longer journeys.
Off-Road Capabilities
- Fat Tires The 4-inch wide tires provide excellent traction on various surfaces, including gravel, sand, and grass. They absorb minor bumps and irregularities, contributing to a smoother ride.
- Suspension While the front suspension fork is basic, it effectively dampens shocks from rough terrains, enhancing comfort and control.
- Versatility The Nomad 1 Plus is well-suited for recreational off-road adventures, hunting trips, or exploring trails. It’s not designed for intense mountain biking but handles moderate off-road conditions admirably.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordability At $1,399, the Nomad 1 Plus offers exceptional value, especially considering the features and quality components it includes. Use our affiliate link and apply the discount code eBikeEscape60 at checkout to save an additional $60.
- Comfort-Oriented Design The adjustable stem and swept-back handlebars allow for a customizable and ergonomic riding position, catering to riders who prioritize comfort.
- Powerful Motor With a 750W continuous and 1,200W peak motor, the bike delivers robust performance for both city commuting and off-road excursions.
- Weather Resistance High IP ratings for both the battery (IPX7) and the bike (IPX6) mean you can ride confidently in various weather conditions without worrying about water damage.
- UL Certified Safety is paramount, and the UL certifications provide assurance that the bike meets strict safety standards for electrical systems.
- Drivetrain The Shimano Altus derailleur and trigger shifter are nice to see at this affordable price.
Cons
- Monochrome Display A color display would enhance the user experience by providing clearer visuals and potentially more features. However, the current display is functional and easy to read.
- Throttle Limitations The throttle doesn’t automatically cut off at 20 mph when set to Class 3, which may not align with some local ebike regulations. Riders should adjust settings accordingly to comply with laws.
- Plastic Pedals While functional, plastic pedals are less durable than metal ones, especially for off-road use. Upgrading to metal pedals could enhance longevity and grip.
- No Included Rear Rack The lack of an included rear rack might be inconvenient for those who need to carry cargo. However, Velotric sometimes offers promotional packages that include a rack, so it’s worth checking current offers.
- Speed Based Pedal Assist Some riders may not prefer the speed-based pedal assist which will get you to 14 mph even in pedal assist level 1. This might be too fast for some riders. We prefer a current-based system, but allowing the rider to customize the top speeds in each pedal assist level would also help.
Final Thoughts
The Velotric Nomad 1 Plus stands out in the crowded ebike market by delivering a combination of comfort, power, and value. It’s a versatile fat tire ebike that caters to a wide range of riders, from daily commuters to weekend adventurers.
FAQs
1. What is the top speed of the Velotric Nomad 1 Plus?
- The Nomad 1 Plus can reach speeds up to 28 mph when set to Class 3. However, riders can adjust the settings to comply with local regulations.
2. Is the bike suitable for shorter riders?
- Yes, the step-through model is designed to accommodate riders from 5’1″ to 6’4″, making it accessible for shorter individuals.
3. Does the bike come with a rear rack?
- The rear rack is not included by default but is sometimes offered in promotional packages. Check the latest offers or consider purchasing a compatible rack separately.
4. How long does the battery take to charge?
- Using the included 3 Amp charger, the battery charges from empty to full in under 5 hours.
5. Is the Velotric Nomad 1 Plus waterproof?
- The battery is IPX7 rated, and the bike itself is IPX6 rated, meaning it’s highly resistant to water and suitable for riding in various weather conditions.
Where to Buy
Don’t miss out on this exceptional e-bike. Purchase the Velotric Nomad 1 Plus here and use the discount code eBikeEscape60 at checkout to save $60.
Explore More Velotric E-Bikes
Interested in other models? Check out our comprehensive reviews of all Velotric e-bikes here.
Thank you for reading our in-depth review of the Velotric Nomad 1 Plus. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Happy riding!
