Ride1UP Core-5 Review

Ride1UP’s Core-5 upright cruiser-type ride is the company’s entry-level e-bike with all the essentials to be the perfect urban or commuter bike.

Despite its low price of just $1,195, the Core-5 still packs a punch thanks to a lower base weight and careful component selection. This quality shines through clearly in the rating of 4.8/5 stars from over 170 user reviews to date.

The type of rider who will enjoy this bike is, first and foremost, anybody with a tight budget for their next e-bike. Additionally, the bike is designed to be super comfortable, compatible with many accessories such as a rear rack and fenders for commuting. Finally, it provides plenty of power to make all your rides feel flat.

As the Core-5 comes in two different frames, a sporty XC model and a comfort ST model, its appeal is even broader. Those with limited movement, seniors, women, and comfort seekers will enjoy the ST, while those who favor performance and the sporty look slightly more than comfort will favor the XC.

About Ride1UP

Since its recent founding in 2019, Ride1UP has established itself as a respected manufacturer of excellent value, reliable electric bikes in the USA.

The dedication to quality, affordability, and efficiency has resulted in hundreds of positive rider reviews across their range. In addition, as a direct-to-consumer brand, they can compete with more prominent brands by cutting out third-party retailers and offering warranties on their bikes.

They are fulfilling their mission to remove the price barrier to e-biking so their customers can enjoy quality e-bikes at affordable prices (between $1,095 and $2,295).

Ride1UP Core-5 Review

• Type – Upright Comfort E-Bike
• Motor – 750W, 60nm torque, 48V Geared Hub Shengyi Motor
• Battery – 48V 10.4Ah – 500Wh
• EBike Class 3 – 20mph half-twist throttle / 28mph pedal-assist
• Tires – 27.5 x 2.2″, Kenda Kwick Seven.5
• Brakes – Mechanical, Tektro, 160mm rotors
• Drivetrain – 7-Speed Shimano Altus, 11-32T cassette
• Weight – 49lbs
• Max capacity – 275lbs

Core-5 XR – Step-Over

As mentioned above, the Core-5 XR is the model with performance, MTB-like geometry. This includes a step-over top tube and a 4″ longer reach than the ST which puts the rider in a more advanced position that is better for speed.

At the affordable price of under $1,200, Ride1UP has managed to squeeze in many reliable components, resulting in a long-lasting bike with enjoyable ride quality. Although it is not the comfort version, the XR is very comfortable, and it handles slightly better on light trails.

It comes with all-terrain Kenda Kwick Seven.5 27.5″x2.2″ tires which feel incredibly comfortable on urban roads, and have the added reliability of K-Shield puncture resistance. Additionally, a gel Selle Royal saddle and soft grips make for pleasant riding.

The electronics are great for this price range. For example, a 500W/60Nm motor with 750W of peak performance will provide assisted speeds of 28mph using the throttle or pedal assistance settings.

With throttle alone, riders can expect 20 miles max range, while up to 40 miles when combined with the reliable Shimano Altus drivetrain. This 10.4Ah battery is relatively small, but that is normal for this price. It’s worth noting that you can upgrade the battery by purchasing the 14Ah one on the online store.

Core-5 ST – Step-Thru

With the Core-5 ST model, Ride1UP has optimized for comfort and convenience thanks to a step-through frame with relaxed, upright geometry and rider-facing handlebars.

Because of the comfort geometry, this bike has a broader appeal. Riders with movement limitations, seniors, those who value comfort over performance, and potentially women who commute wearing dresses and skirts will all benefit from this style of bike.

The other components that contribute to a comfy ride quality include Kenda Kwick Seven.5 2.2″ balloon tires, the plush gel Selle Royal saddle, ergonomic grips, and swept-back ergonomic handlebars.

For power, the ST has a 500W motor with 60Nm of torque and 750W peak performance. With this setup, steep gradients will be barely perceptible, and the max assisted speed of 28mph can be reached in just a few seconds.

Extra $50 for fenders

The battery used here is a small 10.4Ah model, which offers 20 to 40 miles of range depending on how you use it (throttle or pedal assistance). Additionally, you can replace this battery also by purchasing a larger one from the company’s online store.

Finally, it’s worth noting that this bike is compatible with a rear rack, fenders and comes with a kickstand already installed. All of these components help transform this bike into the ultimate commuter machine.

Ride1UP Core 5 Size Recommendations

XR – 5’6″ – 6’4″

ST – 5’0″ – 6’1″

Points to Consider

All-in-all, the Core-5 is a fantastic value bike which outperforms its price tag.

1. 27.5×2.2″ tires – Great for urban riding and commuting
Fun size to ride on all sorts of urban roads by a wide variety of users.

2. Stylish design
The integrated battery gives the bike a sleek look.

3. Powerful motor
500W with 60Nm is great for a 49lb bike.

4. Bike weight
49lbs is quite light for this price range.

Points of Improvements

1. No rack or fenders
Commuters will need to purchase these components extra.

2. XC model doesn’t offer much benefit
Although it looks more like a MTB, the XC doesn’t offer much performance on mountain trails.

What We Like About Core 5

• The sleek look of the removable integrated battery
• Affordable price tag
• Great value
• Compatibility with various components
• Puncture-resistant tires
• Comfortable contact points

Buy Core-5 from Ride1UP

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About the Author

Jordan Grimes

Jordan Grimes is an avid cyclist who loves to travel and has found his bike to be perfect company on road trips in the USA, through national parks, and in countries such as Canada, Ireland, and Spain.

His passion for travel and work in the tourism and hospitality sector has allowed him to live in incredible places like Ireland, Canada, the USA, and the Cayman Islands. He has since relocated to southern Spain, where he works as a freelance writer, practicing Spanish and cycling in the famous Sierra Nevada mountains. He specializes in writing cycling blog articles, health and performance-related topics, and other informative pieces. You can contact him on Linkedin.