Comparing the eJOE Epik SE with the Blix Vika +
© Ken Kalb 2016
I recently was able to compare the Blix Vika + to the eJOE Epik SE, the two of the best folding electric bikes on the market. In full disclosure, I am a dealer for both, so I believe my opinion’s are objective.
Both bikes feature 350 Watt geared motors, they both fold, both are fully accessorized with front and rear lights, fenders, rear luggage rack, chain and mudguards, ergo grips, etc.
The Vika + has an LCD display with readouts for speed, battery level, odometer, etc., while
The Epik SE has a simple function pad for battery level and switching pedal assist levels.
Both bikes feature both pedal assist and independent throttle, though you push the Vika + thumb throttle forward and the Epik SE downward.
The battery system is where these two bikes differ significantly. The Epik SE features a higher capacity Samsung 36 Volt 13 Amp battery, the Vika + a 36 Volt 11 Amp Panasonic (though larger batteries are options). The battery sits visibly behind the rear seat of the Vika + while the Epik SE has the battery hidden in the frame, making it much more stealth. You can charge either battery on or off the bike. However, the Epik SE is a much more balanced bike, with the battery sitting fore and motor aft, distributing the weight evenly. When applying the throttle at take-off on the Vika +, I almost did a little wheelstand and found myself leaning forward to compensate. Once you’ve ridden it a few times, this is not an issue. You must fold the Epik SE to remove the battery, while you simply detach the latch on the seat of the Vika + and pull the battery up. You can charge both bikes onboard without removing the battery. The Epik SE also features an on/off switch and a convenient USB charging port right on the side of the frame. The Vika + comes with a 3 amp charger while the Epik SE is 2 amp, so the Vika + will charge faster though it might sacrifice some battery longevity.
The Vika + features V-brakes, while the Epik SE has front and rear discs. The Epik SE has front suspension while the Vika + has a solid fork. Both bikes are equipped with 7-speed Shimano gears. And the Epik SE weighs a few pounds less than the Vika +.
The Vika + features a low-step frame design, while the Epik SE is conventional though low enough for anyone to mount. The Vika + has certain tasteful retro-style features including leather-like ergo grips and a riveted padded saddle. Frame geometry is also slightly more laid back. The Epik SE features a padded Selle Royale saddle. The Vika + comes in black, cream, and British racing Green, while the Epik SE comes in matte black, frosty white, sky blue, and fuschia. Fit and finish on both models is excellent, however the mesh cable wraps of the Epik SE create a more finished look than the standard wraps on the Vika +. Both bikes feature quick disconnect electronics for easy tire changes and modular electronics.
These two bikes are both excellent folding electric bikes. There is no doubt that the Epik SE with its higher capacity in-frame stealth battery, usb port, disc brakes and front suspension has more features, though the Vika + has a nice LCD display. However, some people might prefer the look, the more laid-back geometry of the low-step frame and retro style features with the riveted leather-like saddle and ergo grips of the Vika +. The Epik SE is also about $80 less in price. Both bikes ride beautifully, fold easily, and are durable for years of portable, versatile, and convenient electric bicycle fun.
© Ken Kalb 2016
I recently was able to compare the Blix Vika + to the eJOE Epik SE, the two of the best folding electric bikes on the market. In full disclosure, I am a dealer for both, so I believe my opinion’s are objective.
Both bikes feature 350 Watt geared motors, they both fold, both are fully accessorized with front and rear lights, fenders, rear luggage rack, chain and mudguards, ergo grips, etc.
The Vika + has an LCD display with readouts for speed, battery level, odometer, etc., while
The Epik SE has a simple function pad for battery level and switching pedal assist levels.
Both bikes feature both pedal assist and independent throttle, though you push the Vika + thumb throttle forward and the Epik SE downward.
The battery system is where these two bikes differ significantly. The Epik SE features a higher capacity Samsung 36 Volt 13 Amp battery, the Vika + a 36 Volt 11 Amp Panasonic (though larger batteries are options). The battery sits visibly behind the rear seat of the Vika + while the Epik SE has the battery hidden in the frame, making it much more stealth. You can charge either battery on or off the bike. However, the Epik SE is a much more balanced bike, with the battery sitting fore and motor aft, distributing the weight evenly. When applying the throttle at take-off on the Vika +, I almost did a little wheelstand and found myself leaning forward to compensate. Once you’ve ridden it a few times, this is not an issue. You must fold the Epik SE to remove the battery, while you simply detach the latch on the seat of the Vika + and pull the battery up. You can charge both bikes onboard without removing the battery. The Epik SE also features an on/off switch and a convenient USB charging port right on the side of the frame. The Vika + comes with a 3 amp charger while the Epik SE is 2 amp, so the Vika + will charge faster though it might sacrifice some battery longevity.
The Vika + features V-brakes, while the Epik SE has front and rear discs. The Epik SE has front suspension while the Vika + has a solid fork. Both bikes are equipped with 7-speed Shimano gears. And the Epik SE weighs a few pounds less than the Vika +.
The Vika + features a low-step frame design, while the Epik SE is conventional though low enough for anyone to mount. The Vika + has certain tasteful retro-style features including leather-like ergo grips and a riveted padded saddle. Frame geometry is also slightly more laid back. The Epik SE features a padded Selle Royale saddle. The Vika + comes in black, cream, and British racing Green, while the Epik SE comes in matte black, frosty white, sky blue, and fuschia. Fit and finish on both models is excellent, however the mesh cable wraps of the Epik SE create a more finished look than the standard wraps on the Vika +. Both bikes feature quick disconnect electronics for easy tire changes and modular electronics.
These two bikes are both excellent folding electric bikes. There is no doubt that the Epik SE with its higher capacity in-frame stealth battery, usb port, disc brakes and front suspension has more features, though the Vika + has a nice LCD display. However, some people might prefer the look, the more laid-back geometry of the low-step frame and retro style features with the riveted leather-like saddle and ergo grips of the Vika +. The Epik SE is also about $80 less in price. Both bikes ride beautifully, fold easily, and are durable for years of portable, versatile, and convenient electric bicycle fun.