Theres no such thing as a perpetual motion machine well, except maybetime crystals.
But as farebikesare concerned, theVello Bike+is about as close to a perpetual motion machine as it gets.
The Vello Bike+ is super lightweight for an ebike at 14kg (31 lb).
It uses a fancy Gates Carbon belt and other high-quality components.
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But I hope it makes its way across the pond soon because theres nothing else quite like it.
The Vello Bike+ uses an all-in-oneelectric systemthats fully contained in the rear wheel hub.
The fact that its the lightest ebike Ive tested that isnt made out ofcarbonfiberdoesnt hurt either.
On most bikes, braking is terribly wasteful.
The Vello Bike+s motor, designed by Italian companyZehus, does just that.
In a couple of instances, I arrived home withmorecharge than I left with.
But its important to keep your expectations in check.
Bike+ isnt going to let you zip down city streets like youve been doping at the Tour de France.
Hybrid mode will likely be the sweet spot for many people.
It also means that turning on the assist is a little awkward if your phone isnt accessible.
Activating the motor first requires getting the bike up to 8km/h and then backpedaling 3 rotations.
This is apparently for safety reasons, but its rather awkward compared to just pressing a button.
Otherwise, youll probably want to mount your phone on the handlebars.
Fancy electric drivetrain aside, the Vello Bike+ is just a really nice folding bike.
It feels superbly built, with nary any flex.
The 20-inch Schwalbe Marathons offer some of the best puncture protection around and the rear suspension helps soften bumps.
The folding mechanism definitely has alearning curve, but its worth it for the extra slim fold.
The bikes gearing is limited; it only comes in single-speed and two-speed configurations.
The one thing that drives me a little nuts is the lack of integrated lighting.
I normally consider this unforgivable on an ebike theres a battery right there!
but as its a consequence of the all-in-one Zehus system, Vello gets a pass.
The Vello Bike+ isnt going to be for everyone.
The folding mechanism takes a bit of getting used to, and its gearing options are limited.
Sure there are asterisks all over what unlimited means.
But its noticeable, even to a heavier rider like myself.
