Ride1Up has launched the second generation of its most popular foldable electric bike model, the Portola. The initial model cost US$ 895, which is equivalent to approximately R$ 4,611 at the current exchange rate, and is sold in the United States through the manufacturer's own website, as there is no official distribution in Brazil.
Journalist Micah Toll, who works for Electrek, tested a pre-production unit and assessed that Ride1Up chose to enhance an already successful product rather than try to create something entirely new, implementing significant improvements for daily use.
The main innovation presented is the Intui-Drive pedal assist system. This system uses both a cadence sensor and a torque sensor, allowing the bike to react not only to the rotation of the pedals but also to the intensity of the force applied by the cyclist. This provides smoother and more natural assistance, especially during starts and at lower speeds.
In terms of motorization, the Portola 02 features a 750W AKM hub, which generates 90 Nm of torque and is designed to operate quietly. The maximum achievable speed is 45 km/h when used in Class 3 pedal assist mode, while in thumb throttle mode, it reaches 32 km/h.
The Portola 02 is available in two main configurations. The most complete version, which includes an integrated rack and a higher capacity battery, costs US$ 1,095, corresponding to about R$ 5,641. The weight difference of 3.1 kg between the Lite version and the standard version may seem small, but it represents a noticeable difference on a folding bike that needs to be carried up stairs or placed in a trunk.
Structurally, the Portola 02 has an aluminum folding frame, equipped with a 100 mm front suspension and hydraulic lock. The braking systems are dual-piston hydraulic discs with 180 mm rotors, and they have a sensor that deactivates the motor when the brakes are applied.
The transmission consists of an 8-speed Shimano Altus gear set, considered a basic component, but adequate for the vehicle's price point. The Arisun tires, measuring 20″ x 3″, were chosen to balance urban agility with the necessary grip off-road.
The 3.5-inch color control panel offers connectivity via a USB-C port for device charging. Furthermore, Apple Find My tracking is directly incorporated into the battery, preventing a thief from simply removing an independent AirTag.
The bike supports a maximum load capacity of 155 kg and is recommended for cyclists between 1.47m and 1.93m tall.
According to Electrek, the Portola 02 presents itself as a more sophisticated and capable version of the original, driven by technological advancements in electric bikes over the last three years. The pedal assist system was highlighted as the most evident improvement in practical use.
A negative point mentioned was the Shimano Altus gear set, classified as an entry-level component. However, for a bike with this usage profile and at this price point, this choice is considered justifiable. The Portola 02 is available in bronze, gray, white, and blue colors. The news about the Portola 02 was initially published by Olhar Digital.