The Velotric Nomad 2 is a Fat Tire electric bike that promises a blend of comfort, customization, and cruiser-style performance, positioning it as a standout option in a crowded market. Priced at $1,999, this second-generation offering from Velotric aims to cater to a wide range of riders with its thoughtful design and robust feature set. In this comprehensive Velotric Nomad 2 review, we’ll explore its components, riding experience, pros, and cons. Whether you’re a seasoned ebike rider or new to the scene, this review will help you determine if the Nomad 2 is your next ride.
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The Ultimate Fat Tire Ebike | Velotric Nomad 2 YouTube Review
There are so many features that our review is 37 minutes long! We cover everything from the design, components, advanced settings and customization, and riding footage on pavement and off-road in our in-depth YouTube review.
Overview: What Sets the Velotric Nomad 2 Apart?
Velotric has quickly risen as a popular name in the ebike world, and the Nomad 2 builds on the success of models like the Discover 2. Known for its presence in over 1,000 bike shops across the U.S. and backed by a 2-year warranty, Velotric combines reliability with accessibility. The Nomad 2, however, shines as a comfort cruiser Fat Tire ebike, designed for riders who value an upright riding position, versatile performance, and a high degree of customization.
Frame Design and Sizing
The Nomad 2 offers both step-through and high-step frame styles that are available in multiple colors—Olive, Cranberry, Slate, Midnight Blue for the step-thru, Midnight Blue and Sage for the step-over. Each comes in two sizes: regular and large, accommodating riders from 4’1″ to 6’5″. The step-through model features a low 16.1-inch stand-over height (compared to 19 inches on the high-step), making it ideal for shorter riders or those prioritizing ease of mounting. At 75 lbs, it’s heavy—like most Fat Tire ebikes—but its 505 lb payload capacity is class-leading, supporting a wide range of riders and cargo needs.
Components: A Closer Look at the Build
The Nomad 2 is loaded with high-quality components that balance performance, durability, and comfort. Here’s a detailed rundown:
Brakes
Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with a 203mm front rotor and 180mm rear rotor deliver powerful, reliable stopping power—crucial for a 75-lb bike with a 505-lb capacity. The oversized front rotor is a nice touch for enhanced braking on varied terrain.
Tires
Kenda 26×4-inch wide tires with knobby tread provide excellent traction and stability, whether you’re cruising on pavement or tackling off-road trails. These Fat Tires are a defining feature, offering a smooth, cushioned ride.
Fenders
Metal fenders (front and rear) come standard, protecting you from mud and water splashes—a practical inclusion for all-weather riding.
Suspension
50mm Travel w/ Preload Adjustment
RST hydraulic suspension fork with 100mm of travel, featuring preload adjustment and a lockout option, smooths out bumps effectively. Paired with a suspension seat post offering 50mm of travel (adjustable via an Allen key), the Nomad 2 prioritizes rider comfort. The seat post arrived stiff on our test model but softened nicely after adjusting the preload.
Handlebars and Stem
Swept-back handlebars and an adjustable stem (30° to 60°) promote an upright riding posture, reducing strain on your back and shoulders—a rarity among Fat Tire ebikes and a nod to its cruiser roots.
Lights
A 130 Lux (500-lumen) front light mounts to the stem plate with up/down adjustment and auto-on functionality. The rear lights include brake activation and turn signals, enhancing visibility and safety.
Display
The large LCD display is a highlight, offering a wealth of features:
- Switch between cadence and torque sensors.
- Adjust speed limits (pedal assist and throttle) from 12 mph to 28 mph.
- Choose from 15 pedal assist levels across Eco, Trail, and Boost modes.
- Displays battery percentage, trip data, motor power, and more.
- Additional settings include screen brightness, cruise control, and rear light customization.
Controls
The control pad features seven buttons for easy access to turn signals, lights, and other functions. A USB-C port under the controls lets you charge devices on the go, while a thumb throttle and Shimano 8-speed trigger shifter round out the setup.
App
The Velotric app adds ride tracking, bike settings adjustments (e.g., sensor swap, speed limits), and over-the-air updates. It also integrates with Apple Find My for security—a rare and valuable perk.
Battery
The 48V 14.7Ah battery (UL2271 certified, IPX7 rated) is paint-matched and integrates seamlessly into the frame. It’s removable with a key and lever system, featuring a charge indicator and handle. The bike itself is IPX6 rated, making it weather-resistant.
Motor
A 750W nominal, 1300W peak power motor provides ample grunt for hills and acceleration, paired with your choice of cadence or torque sensing.
Drivetrain
The Shimano Acera 8-speed drivetrain features an 11-40 tooth cassette and 48-tooth chainring, offering a wide gear range for varied terrain. The 40-tooth low gear is particularly impressive for hill climbing.
Additional Features
- Rear rack (66-lb capacity) with MIK compatibility.
- Velotric-branded saddle—wide and cushioned for comfort.
- Bolt-on front axle, torque arm, and chainstay protector.
- Tools for assembly (front wheel, display, fender, pedals) and stickers for legal classification.
Performance and Riding Experience: How Does It Ride?
The Nomad 2’s performance is where it truly flexes its muscles. We tested it across pavement, off-road trails, and hills, evaluating its versatility and comfort.
Throttle and Speed
Out of the box (Class 2 mode), the throttle hits 20 mph effortlessly. Override it to 28 mph (on private property only, per local laws), and the 1300W peak power shines, reaching 29-32 mph on the display in windy conditions. It’s a thrilling ride with smooth acceleration.
Cadence vs. Torque Sensors
The ability to switch between cadence and torque sensors is a game-changer, Velotric first offered this feature through an over-the-air firmware update on their Discover 2 premium commuter and is available out of the box on the Nomad 2:
- Cadence Sensor: Delivers consistent motor power regardless of effort, making you feel superhuman. On hills, it climbs at 20 mph with minimal pedaling.
- Torque Sensor: Amplifies your pedaling input for a natural feel. It requires more effort on steep inclines but excels for accessibility and control.
You can tweak throttle limits per sensor mode, e.g., capping at 14 mph in torque mode for safety.
Pedal Assist
With 15 levels across Eco, Trail, and Boost modes, the Nomad 2 offers unmatched customization:
- Eco Level 1: Gentle assist, ~10 mph with cadence, 7-11 mph with torque.
- Boost Level 5: Full power, hitting 20 mph (Class 2) or 28-32 mph (Class 3) depending on settings.
You will have no problem reaching top speeds using the cadence or torque sensor. When using the cadence sensor, them motor rockets you up to top speeds while the torque sensor smooth acceleration.
Cruise Control
Engage cruise control by holding the bottom button when riding above 5 mph, allowing the bike to maintain a steady speed without pedaling—ideal for relaxed cruising at speeds like 10-14 mph. To exit cruise control, you can use any of the following methods:
- Use the brakes
- Activate the throttle
- Change the assist mode
- Adjust the assist level
Off-Road Performance
On wider trails, the 4-inch Kenda tires and suspension combo handle roots and bumps well. The upright position and plush saddle make it a joy to cruise, though the wide seat may rub slightly on long rides. Singletrack is doable at slower speeds, but the bike’s heft limits agility compared to a true mountain bike.
Hill Climbing
In Florida’s modest hills, the 1300W motor maintained 10 mph in torque mode with little effort and 19-20 mph in cadence mode with the same pedal push. The 40-tooth low gear ensures it can tackle steeper inclines elsewhere, with the torque sensor offering a workout option if desired.
Pros and Cons | Velotric Nomad 2 Review
Excellent
If you are interested in features features the Nomad 2 offers but are looking for more of a “commuter” experience, check out our full review on Velotric’s Discover 2.
Conclusion: Is the Velotric Nomad 2 Worth It?
The Velotric Nomad 2 is hands-down the best fully featured Fat Tire ebike at $2,000. It blends cruiser comfort with off-road capability, offering a level of customization—sensor swapping, speed tweaking, and app integration—that’s rare in this category. The powerful motor, quality components, and thoughtful extras like turn signals and a high payload capacity make it a versatile choice for commuters, leisure riders, and light trail enthusiasts alike.
That said, the average battery size and minor assembly needs are worth considering, especially if you prioritize range or convenience. Still, with access to Velotric’s extensive bike shop network and a 2-year warranty, the Nomad 2 delivers exceptional value. If you’re seeking a Fat Tire ebike that balances comfort, power, and personalization, the Velotric Nomad 2 deserves a top spot on your list.
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