Velotric Discover 2 Review: The Commuter Ebike for All
This commuter e-bike review covers the Velotric Discover 2’s 750W motor, hydraulic disc brakes, and torque sensor, making it ideal for all electric bike riders. Searching for a comfortable e-bike that blends power, style, and affordability? The Velotric Discover 2 is a standout commuter e-bike in the mid-range e-bike market, priced at $1,899. With its sleek design, robust 750W motor, and practical features like a rear rack and fenders, Velotric’s Discover 2 is perfect for commuters, casual riders, and light trail enthusiasts.
This Velotric Discover 2 review dives into its design, features and performance, and why it’s a top pick for anyone seeking a commuter ebike. Whether you’re comparing it to the Discover 1 or other e-bikes, here’s why the Discover 2 shines.
What Is the Velotric Discover 2?
The Velotric Discover 2 is a Class 2 e-bike (unlockable to Class 3) designed for versatility. Powered by a 750W hub motor with 75Nm of torque, it offers smooth pedal assist and a responsive thumb throttle. Its 706Wh battery delivers up to 70 miles of range, making it ideal for commuters and riders who want a comfortable e-bike for city streets or light trails. Compared to the Discover 1, the Discover 2 boasts upgraded features like a torque sensor, hydraulic disc brakes, and an IPX7-rated battery for enhanced durability.
Key Features of the Velotric Discover 2
Here’s what makes Velotric’s Discover 2 a top choice:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Price | $1,899 |
| Motor | 750W rear hub motor with 75Nm of torque |
| Battery | 706Wh removable, lockable battery (IPX7 water-resistant) |
| Range | Up to 70 miles (claimed), 40–55 miles (real-world) |
| Top Speed | 20 mph (throttle), 28 mph (pedal assist in Class 3 mode) |
| Weight | 62.2 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 440 lbs |
| Tires | 27.5” x 2.2” hybrid tires |
| Frame Sizes | Medium (5’3”–5’8”), Large (5’8”–6’4”) |
| Colors | Forest, Indigo Gray, Mango, Spring, Zinc |
| Extras | Rear rack, fenders, front and rear lights, rear turn signals, color display, Velotric app with GPS tracking, kickstand |
Design and Build: Sleek, Durable, and Ergonomic
The Discover 2 features a modern aluminum frame in step-over or step-through configurations, catering to diverse riders. At 62.2 lbs, it’s slightly heavier than the Discover 1 but supports a 440-lb payload capacity, perfect for carrying cargo or passengers. The ergonomic design includes an adjustable handlebar and a comfortable saddle for an upright and comfortable ride.
Standout Design Features:
- Vibrant Colors: Choose from Forest, Indigo Gray, Mango, Spring, or Zinc for a stylish look.
- Clean Aesthetics: Internally routed cables and an IPX7-rated battery give it a premium feel.
- Practical Add-Ons: The Discover 2 comes with a rear rack, fenders, front and rear lights, rear turn signals, and a kickstand, making it ready for daily use.
Performance: Power, Torque, and Smooth Handling
Motor and Speed
The 750W hub motor delivers 75Nm of torque, making the Discover 2 ideal for steep hills and quick acceleration. As a Class 2 e-bike, it offers a 20 mph thumb throttle and 20 mph pedal assist. Unlock Class 3 mode for 28mph pedal assist, or switch to Class 1 for pedal-only trails. The torque sensor ensures smooth, natural pedal assistance, a step up from cadence sensor systems in the Discover 1 Plus.
Battery and Range
The 706Wh battery provides 70 miles on a single charge (claimed), with real-world tests showing 40–55 miles depending on PAS level, terrain, and rider weight. The battery charge takes 5–6 hours with the included charger, and the IPX7 rating ensures durability in wet conditions.
Ride and Handling
- Tires: 27.5” x 2.2” hybrid tires balance speed and grip for city streets and light trails.
- Suspension: An 80mm hydraulic suspension fork absorbs bumps for a smooth ride, unlike the Discover 1’s basic fork.
- Drivetrain: The 8-speed Shimano shifter offers reliable gear changes, though steep hills may challenge some riders.
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes with rotors ensure confident stopping, even with heavy loads.
Wheels, Tires, Fenders
The Velotric Discover 2 is equipped with 27.5” x 2.2” hybrid tires that strike an excellent balance between speed on pavement and grip on light trails. These tires, paired with a sturdy front wheel, ensure reliable performance for both urban commuting and off-road adventures. The 80mm hydraulic suspension fork enhances ride comfort by absorbing shocks from uneven terrain, making it smoother than the Discover 1’s basic fork. Additionally, the included fenders provide protection from splashes and debris, keeping riders clean during wet or muddy conditions, which is a practical upgrade for daily commuters.
Technology and Features: Smart and Safe
The Discover 2’s tech enhances the riding experience:
- Color Display: A 3.5-inch LCD color display shows speed, PAS level, battery status, and trip data, readable in sunlight.
- Velotric App: Customize settings, track rides, and enable GPS-based anti-theft features.
- Torque and Cadence Sensors: The torque sensor and cadence sensor combo delivers intuitive pedal assistance.
- Safety: UL 2849-certified electrical system and IPX6-rated components ensure reliability.
- Cruise Control: Maintain steady speeds with ease, ideal for long rides.
Pros and Cons of the Velotric Discover 2
Pros
- Powerful 750W motor with 75Nm of torque
- Up to 70 miles of range (40–55 miles real-world)
- Torque sensor for smooth pedal assist
- Hydraulic disc brakes and 80mm hydraulic suspension
- Includes rear rack, fenders, front and rear lights, and rear turn signals
- UL-certified for safety
Cons
- 62.2 lbs makes it slightly heavy
- 8-speed shifter may struggle on extreme hills
- Throttle can feel abrupt at low speeds
Who Should Buy the Velotric Discover 2?
The Discover 2 is the e-bike riders love for:
- Commuters: Rear rack, fenders, and light and rear turn signals make it a top commuter e-bike.
- Casual Riders: Ergonomic design and adjustable handlebar ensure comfort.
- Light Trail Enthusiasts: Hybrid tires and 80mm hydraulic suspension handle gravel paths.
- Heavy-Duty Needs: 440-lb payload capacity supports cargo or passengers.
Is the Velotric Discover 2 Worth $1,899?
At $1,899, the Discover 2 offers unmatched value, rivaling pricier e-bikes like the Discover 1 Plus or competitors from Aventon. Its 750W motor, torque sensor, hydraulic disc brakes, and IPX7 battery make it a standout. The included rear rack, fenders, and front and rear lights add practicality, making it a smart choice for riders.
Rider Feedback: Share Your Experience!
Own a Velotric Discover 2? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Tell me:
- Ride Quality: How does the Discover 2 handle on city streets, hills, or trails like a mountain bike?
- Battery Life: Does the 706Wh battery meet the 70-mile claim?
- Build and Features: Are the hydraulic suspension fork, color display, or Velotric app satisfying?
- Pros and Cons: What do you love about the Discover 2’s features and performance? Any issues?
- Value: Is it worth $1,899 compared to the Discover 1 or other e-bikes?
Share maintenance tips, upgrades, or comparisons with the Discover 1 or Discover 1 Plus. Check out a video review for more insights!
Velotric Discover 2 FAQs
Is Velotric better than Aventon?
Both are great, but Velotric Discover 2 offers more torque (75Nm vs. Aventon Level.2’s 60Nm), better water resistance (IPX7 battery), and a higher payload capacity (440 lbs). Aventon may have a slight edge in lighter frames and broader model variety. Choose based on your needs!
Is the Velotric Discover 2 good for hills?
Yes, its 750W motor and 75Nm of torque make it excellent for hill climbing, handling steep inclines with ease when using pedal assist or throttle.
How much does Medicare pay for electric bikes for seniors?
Medicare typically does not cover electric bikes, as they are not considered medical equipment. Check with your provider for specific coverage details.
What class is the Velotric Discover 2?
It’s a Class 2 e-bike (20 mph throttle, 20 mph pedal assist) but can be unlocked to Class 3 (28 mph pedal assist) via the display or app.
When did the Velotric Discover 2 come out?
The Velotric Discover 2 was released in March 2024.
How much does the Velotric Discover 2 weigh?
It weighs 63 lbs (claimed), though some tests report up to 69 lbs.
What would you change on the Velotric Discover 2?
Add a passcode for the display, improve cable management, and upgrade plastic pedals to metal for durability.
Can it climb an 18% grade with moderate pedaling?
Yes, with its 750W motor and torque sensor, it can handle an 18% grade with moderate pedaling, though effort may increase on very steep sections.
How to unlock your Velotric e-bike’s top speed?
Use the Velotric app or bike display menu to switch from Class 2 (20 mph) to Class 3 (28 mph). Refer to Velotric’s YouTube channel for step-by-step instructions.
Final Verdict: A Top Commuter E-Bike
Velotric says the Discover 2 is a game-changer, and we agree. With a 750W motor, 75Nm of torque, and a 706Wh battery, this e-bike is perfect for commuters and casual riders. Since the bike includes hydraulic disc brakes, an 80mm hydraulic suspension fork, and smart features like the Velotric app, it’s a top pick under $2,000.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Recommendation: If you think the Velotric Discover 2 sounds like the ebike I’ve been searching for, it’s a must-try for commuters and adventurers.
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