Bolt is one of the biggest names in the shared electric scooter market. In addition to that, they rent cars, deliver food, and provide a taxi service.
Now in many cities they also provide shared e-bikes. I was walking down the street and saw one right next to an e-scooter.
So I thought why not test it out and share my experience with you.
Bolt Shared Electric Bike Review
I tested Bolt’s new e-bike, which has a bit different design compared to their first bike.
They launched their first e-bikes in the summer of 2020 in Paris. Bolt’s first e-bike had a maximum assisted speed of 25 km/h and the maximum range was 65 km.
But we can clearly see that the bike has gone through some changes. I would say the new bike looks much more stylish and modern.
What to Expect from Bolt Rental E-Bike?
- Mid-drive motor
- Huge battery pack
- Fenders
- Waterproof design
- Adjustable seat post
- Drum brakes at the front and the rear
- Front basket
- Display
- Front light + rear light
Bolt’s shared e-bike is really heavy. It would be very inconvenient to carry the bike upstairs.
However, the handling of the bike is really good. It’s easy to maneuver the bike.
Also, the seat is well adjustable to fit almost everyone.
Related: Pros and Cons of Electric Bikes
Motor and Speed
The bike comes with a mid-drive motor. This type of motors are usually more expensive than a hub motor.
Compared with hub drive motors, the mid-drive motor feels more natural and the bike is more balanced.
The bike doesn’t have an accelerator or throttle. The motor assistance works only when pedaling. The maximum assisted speed is 25 km/h, which is regulated by the law. It’s a convenient speed to cruise around the city.
Related: Can You Ride E-Bike Without Pedaling?
Battery and Range
The battery is located in the down tube. As you can see, the battery pack is huge. An estimated range of the bike is about 60 km.
So, if you want to ride more than that, you need to switch bikes.
Gearing and Braking
The Bolt e-bike doesn’t have any gearing. So it’s a single-speed electric bike. The first pedal strokes might be quite hard but then the motor starts to help and pedaling gets really easy.
When talking about the stopping power, the bike has drum brakes at the front and as well at the rear.
When riding on public roads where there are also pedestrians, an e-bike must have good brakes. You never know when someone might step in front of you.
First of all, the stopping distance must be as short as possible. But you also don’t want to fly over the handlebar when making an emergency braking.
This Bolt e-bike seems to meet both criteria.
When I was riding over 20 km/h and pushed both brake levers at the same time, the bike stopped within a couple of meters.
At the same time, there was no chance that the first wheel would block. So it’s impossible to fly over the handlebar.
How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Bolt E-Bike?
How much does it cost you probably wonder?
The price might be slightly different in different cities. I tested the bike in Tallinn and the price was 14 cents per 1 minute. Also, there was no starting fee.
The price is exactly the same as renting a scooter.
So if you rent the bike for 30 minutes, it will cost you about 4 Euros. I think it’s not bad at all.
Conclusion
To end the ride, just park the e-bike in the allowed zone and click the ‘End Ride’ button from the app.
For me, it was definitely a pleasant experience, and I am sure I will rent a Bolt e-bike again in the future.
The founder and the editor-in-chief of the Electric Wheelers blog. With a previous background in IT, sales, and video editing, he has now established himself as a micromobility expert.
He bought his first e-scooter over 5 years ago and since then has owned dozens of e-scooters and e-bikes. His deep understanding of the technical aspects, coupled with a keen eye for market trends, enables him to provide insightful and reliable content.
His commitment to promoting sustainable and efficient urban mobility solutions has made him a respected voice in the community of eco-friendly transportation enthusiasts.
