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Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT review – a great ebike for first-time riders

Approachable, easy-riding and plenty peppy.

Tom's Guide Verdict

The Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT is an approachable, easy-riding and comfortable ebike that's great for beginners and anyone with apprehensions about motor-assisted cycling. Its 250W motor isn't the most powerful but it's plenty peppy enough for cruising around at speeds up to 20 mph with little effort. Pricier than other entry-level options, the Verve+ 1 Lowstep includes a two-year warranty on the battery and a lifetime warranty on the bike.

Approachable upright riding position

Stylish and constructed with high-quality components

Hydraulic disk brakes are very responsive

Peppy motor, even on steep hills

Lots of accessories available/frame attachment points

Non-removable battery with somewhat limited range

E-assist lags slightly

Pricier than the competition

No throttle

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• Price and availability
• Riding experience
• Battery life and performance
• Accessories
• The competition

Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT: Verdict

Weight: 44 pounds Max rider weight: 300lb Tires: 27.5 x 2.0 Drivetrain: Eight-speed, chain Motor: 250W rear hub motor, 40Nm torque Battery:  48V, nonremovable, (250 Wh) Max advertised range: 35 miles Assist levels: Three

The Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT is the brand's entry-level, upright-style electric bike for beginners, commuters and joy riders. Featuring a step-through frame, a large comfortable seat, grippy handlebars and a riding position that makes it easy to keep an eye on traffic, the Verve+ 1 LT is one of the best beginner-friendly ebikes available.

It's a bit pricier than the competition, but Trek makes up for it with high-quality components, including hydraulic disc brakes, integrated lights and fenders, oversized tires and a reasonably lightweight (44 pounds) design, with an all-aluminum frame construction. 

Powered by a modest yet capable enough 250W motor integrated into the rear wheel hub, users can select from three e-assist levels and eight gear speeds. At $2,300, it may not be a contender for our best budget electric bikes guide, but it's a strong contender as one of the best ebikes for newbies.

Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT review: Price and availability

The Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT is available for $2,300 from Trek directly, including Trek retail stores. You can also find it in a lot of local independent bike shops. The cost of the bike includes professional assembly, which is a huge plus. I recently tried to build an ebike at home and ran into several issues, despite working confidently on traditional bikes. 

For U.S. customers, all Trek bikes, electric or not, come with Trek Care , which covers the frame and main mechanical components for life. The battery, on the other hand, has a two-year warranty . While it's not meant to be removed by customers, Trek shops can easily switch it out if/when it does need replacing. 

Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT review: Design

The Trek Verve+ 1 LT comes in three sizes, small, medium and large — I tested the latter —  and three colors: Galatic Grey, Viper Red, and Baja Yellow. All variations feature the same low-step-style frame with no upper crossbar to contend with. Built out of Trek's Alpha Gold Aluminum, the bike weighs in at a manageable 44 pounds. 

With handlebars that are positioned high and wide, riders are seated upright rather than hunched over, like on a performance bike. The rubber grips on the handlebars are also super comfortable with lots of real estate to accommodate even the largest hands. The brake levers are also long and easy to grip. 

You'll find the e-bike controls on the inside of the left handlebar. A long press on the on/off switch gets things going, while the plus and minus buttons allow you to jump between no e-assist and the three powered settings.

The green LEDs indicate how much charge the battery has left while the red LEDs represent the e-assist setting. It's a lot more basic than the displays on the Ride1Up Turris or the RadPower RadCity 5 Plus , but it gets the job done. 

In addition to three e-assist settings, the bike has eight geared speeds which are adjusted using two levers located on the inside of the right handlebar. A small window facing riders indicates the current gear via an orange strip.

The bike seat features a quick-release lever making it easy to adjust the height for different riders on the fly. Trek equipped the Verve+ 1 LT with the wide and comfy Bontrager Boulevard Bike Saddle, which is a nice upgrade over the saddles that come on most entry-level models. 

Power comes from the 250W, 40Nm motor tucked in the rear wheel hub. The eight-speed drivetrain uses all high-quality Shimano components, including the shifter and derailleurs. The disc brakes, meanwhile are made by Tektro. 

The tires are a hybrid affair, making them suitable for pavement and trail riding. I was easily able to cruise over loose gravel and dirt on the bike without issue. And while they offer basic puncture protection, they are far from the Kevlar-reinforced tires I default to on my own bikes.

Last but not least, the Trek Verve+ 1 LT comes with wide, grippy Bontrager City pedals which provide decent traction even in wet weather (I mostly rode around wearing sneakers or hiking boots). 

Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT review: Riding experience

In addition to riding the Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT across the world's longest floating bridge and up the steepest hill in Seattle , Washington, I also used it to get around town while running errands and taking midday breaks. Here's how it faired.

The bike is extremely easy to get on and off of, and feels stable while riding, even at fast speeds. First-time riders should start with e-assist in the lowest setting before cranking it up, as the bike accelerates quickly at maximum power.

However, there is a slight delay between when you start to pedal and when the motor kicks in, about two pedal strokes, which is worth keeping in mind when taking on big hills. 

The max e-assisted speed is 20 mph, which you can easily surpass with some help from gravity. Going up hills is fairly painless, especially in the bike's easiest gear and with maximum e-assist. However, unlike some of its competitors, the bike lacks a throttle, so you can't get a free ride.

Both the seat and handlebars are plenty comfortable. I rode on numerous occasions in inclement weather and had no issues gripping the bike or keeping my feet on the pedals. The tires also provide ample traction on wet pavement.

It's worth noting that there's no suspension, so, expect to feel some bumps and knocks as you cruise around. That said, I wouldn't call it a stiff ride. Also, lowering your tire pressure a bit below the recommended PSI will give you a little more cushion, if needed.

The brakes are very responsive, so resist gripping them too tightly your first several times stopping or you may send yourself into orbit. That said, the stopping power is fantastic, even under wet conditions. 

Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT review: Battery life and performance

The bike's battery is integrated into the downtube on the frame, making it pretty damn difficult for someone to steal. The downside is that you can't carry an extra. However, Trek sells a battery range extender for $499, which more than doubles the total advertised distance to 75 miles — the advertised range without it is 35 miles. The extender does add an extra 3.5 pounds of weight, though. 

Without the extender and in everyday riding conditions, versus the ideal conditions these batteries are tested in, I got closer to 16 miles of range while using maximum e-assist (and climbing 1,400 ft). While riding more conservatively, switching between the three power settings as needed, I was able to squeeze out closer to 25 miles, again with ~1000 ft climbed. 

I do reckon that on flat terrain using only the lowest e-assist setting, I could make it to 35 miles on a single charge, but where's the fun in that? Fortunately, as long as your destination has a power outlet and you're sticking around for a bit, I found the battery can be charged up fully in just over two hours.

The bike charges via a covered port at the base of the downtube and the included charger has plenty of length for hard-to-reach outlets. 

Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT review: Accessories

While accessories like front and rear rain/mudguards, lights and even a MIK-system compatible rear cargo rack come standard on the Trek Verve+ 1 LT, you'll need to shell out extra coin for goodies like the detachable bike bag shown above, the mountable battery extender (obviously) or a water bottle holder. Fortunately, the Verve+ 1 LT is covered in mounting points to accommodate all sorts of accessories, allowing you to customize it to your heart's content. 

Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT review: The competition

The Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus is the best ebike for most people and a solid low-step-style alternative to the Trek Verve+ 1 LT. It features a more powerful motor, greater range and a lower price in a similar package. However, it is 20 pounds heavier with one less gear.

The Ride1Up Turris is about $1,000 less than the Trek and also offers a comparable range with a more powerful motor. However, it too is about 10 pounds heavier. 

If you want a low-step bike with maximum range, consider the incredibly named NIU BQi-C3 Pro . It's good for an advertised 90-mile distance but also weighs a hefty 70.5 pounds and doesn't have any gears, which might be a deal-breaker if you live somewhere with lots of hills. 

The Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT is the most approachable and well-equipped beginner-friendly ebike I've encountered. Professional assembly is included in the price of the bike, as is a lifetime warranty on the major parts, except the battery, which has a two-year warranty. 

Easy to ride and appropriate for folks of all statures, the built-in motor has three speeds; the lowest setting is great for getting used to the electric-assisted lifestyle. However, the motor is nothing short of zippy with maximum power. 

Battery life could be better, but for trips under 20 miles, the Trek Verve+ 1 Lowstep LT is a great option. The eight-speed drivetrain makes it appropriate for even the hilliest terrain. Plus, the battery recharges in about two hours and an accessory range extender can be picked up, doubling your distance.

Ultimately, if I were a man of many dollars, this is the ebike I'd buy for my parents to enjoy because it's safe, built from quality components and a lot of fun to ride. I also dig Trek's incredibly helpful customer service. However, it's hard to ignore its price, which is much higher than some of the best electric bikes , including those with specs and features that meet or exceed what Trek offers.

Dan Bracaglia covers fitness and consumer technology with an emphasis on wearables for Tom's Guide. Based in the US Pacific Northwest, Dan is an avid outdoor adventurer who dabbles in everything from kayaking to snowboarding, but he most enjoys exploring the cities and mountains with his small pup, Belvedere. Dan is currently training to climb some of Washington State's tallest peaks. He's also a big photography nerd. 

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Trek Electric Bikes Review

eBicycles score

In terms of principles, Trek is firmly grounded in producing bikes with high-quality craftsmanship, aiming to bring the joy of cycling to a broader audience. The fact that the company has four electric bikes speaks for itself. 

Trek started back in 1976 as a subsidiary of Roth Corporation, an appliance distributor based in Milwaukee. The founders, Richard Burke and Bevil Hogg, began to manufacture steel touring frames with the aspiration to rival Japanese and Italian-made bicycles that were dominating the market at that time.

Just as its name suggests, Trek is fully committed to bringing its riders to great adventures and even promises to take them to the edge of the horizon.

It’s also fitting that their place of origin, Waterloo, is home to the Waterloo Driving Park Association, where spirited residents gather for some old-time tough and gritty bicycle racing.

Throughout its long history, Trek has been fueled by its determination to provide the best and the most rugged bicycles for the adventurous spirits that form part of their heritage.

Overview of Trek Electric Bikes

Trek Bikes produce premium quality bikes all around the world.

Trek was founded with an established goal of building high-end bikes for the United States. Back in the day, all the good bikes came from European brands. This inspired Richard Burke and Bevil Hogg to take matters into their own hands. The solution? To make their own brand of bicycles.

Three years after its foundation, Trek sales came close to the $2,000,000-mark.

Now, Trek Bicycle Corporation is one of the world’s biggest bike companies.

The company offers models designed for Road, Mountain, and Urban biking. Trek is also renowned for making the bikes that Lance Armstrong rode to his number of victories in Tour De France.

In terms of their electric bike portfolio, Trek covers a wide range of frames, from amiable town bikes to more powerful road bikes and mountain bikes. Currently, the company sells 24 of these bikes with a price range between $1,500 to $12,000.

What We Like About Trek Electric Bikes

It is a given that Trek is very well-known when it comes to building bikes. However, this doesn’t mean that every giant company doesn’t have kinks in its armor.

This section will talk about the pros and cons of Trek e-bikes. Here to highlight the things we like about them and the points to consider before buying their e-bikes.

Reasons to buy:

• Trek produces high-quality bikes that can handle any type of weather and terrain .
• Most models are available in five different sizes for an optimal fit for each rider.
• Aside from their magnificent designs, Trek bikes boast high-quality frames and components .
• Massive collection of e-bikes span from hybrids, mountain bikes, and road bikes.
• The Bosch motor boasts top-notch performance while keeping its size and weight minimum.

Reasons to avoid:

• Some bicycles are overly expensive for an everyday e-bike.
• Some key components don’t come with the complete bike and are sold separately .

Popular Trek E-Bike Models

The company has a ton of bicycles underneath its belt and a compelling product line, market value, and spec sheet.

Trek has been in the biking industry for a long time, but it didn’t hold back on innovating the e-bike scene. Here is a brief overview of Trek’s e-bike categories and what you can expect to see in each one.

Hybrid & Commuter Trek E-Bikes

If you’re looking to commute by e-bike, run errands around town, or just go for a leisurely ride with friends and family, Trek’s hybrid and commuter e-bikes are for you.

They’re split into three categories (City & Hybrid, Commuter, Recreational) and consist of multiple model lines:

• Dual Sport+
• Electra Go! E-Bikes

FX+ and Dual Sport+ model families are what you would call typical hybrid electric bikes with Class 1 speeds and rear hub motors. They are available with step-over and step-through frames and provide dynamic performance and upright riding positions.

Related post:  Trek Verve+ 2 Review

On the other hand, Verve+ and Allant+ model lines are better-equipped city commuter bikes that cost a bit more but offer more in terms of features and speeds. They consist of Class 1 and Class 3 models powered by mid-drive motors and equipped with lights, fenders, rear racks, and even suspension forks on some ebikes.

Finally, Trek also offers Electra Go! electric bikes (Trek’s sister company), which consist of mid-drive and rear-hub drive e-bikes that fall into cruiser, city, and urban categories.

Shop Trek Hybrid E-Bikes

Trek Mountain E-Bikes

Trek’s electric mountain bikes provide ‘endless adventure’, as Trek puts it. The category consists of hardtail and full-suspension mountain e-bikes that will fit all different types of riders.

The selection includes XC bikes, trail bikes, and even enduro bikes. There are four model families you can choose from:

All of Trek’s mountain e-bikes are powered by trail-tough Bosch mid-drive motors and integrated batteries with up to 625 Wh of capacity. They have Class 1 capabilities and the batteries typically last up to 5 hours of continuous use.

The only downside of Trek’s e-mountain bikes is the pricing, as they typically cost between $6,000 and $14,000, though the Powerfly models are priced in the $3,000-$4,000 range.

Shop Trek Mountain E-Bikes

Trek Road E-Bikes

Finally, Trek makes some of the best electric road bikes on the market, but also some of the most expensive ones.

They are famous for providing a natural riding experience and only supplementing power instead of taking over. Therefore, you’ll be able to ride further and enjoy road biking just as you would on a traditional road bike.

Domane+ is the only model family in this category, though it comes in around a dozen variations, including road and gravel capable builds.

These are Class 1 and Class 3 capable e-bikes with Fazua Evation or TQ e-bike systems. All models are built around lightweight carbon frames, come with drop bars, 1x and 2x Shimano and SRAM drivetrains, and powerful hydraulic disc brakes.

Therefore, if you want to explore more or keep up on fast group rides, one of Trek’s road e-bikes is for you, if you can afford it.

Shop Trek Road E-Bikes

Trek E-Bike Classes, Motors, and Batteries

These bikes offer a lot of power and range from both their motor and battery.

The principle which the company is built upon is simple. That is to create a bicycle brand that is on par or even more significant than its European and Japanese counterparts back then. Now, they are one of the biggest bike companies in the whole world, so their grit and drive really paid off.

Trek is all about creating reliable bicycles that could take their customers to the next level of fun and enjoyment.

The company’s formula to success lies at their rigid standard of quality when it comes to their bikes. It ranges from steel, alloy, and carbon fiber, ensuring that it can take on any punishment it might receive when riding. They also didn’t hold back in choosing each component, as evidenced by their top-notch Bosch electric motors and Shimano parts.

When it comes to selling, the company won’t have any problems catering to your needs as they distribute their bicycles worldwide. What’s more? They even have 1,700 dealers in the U.S. alone. Their website also allows you to see the store closest to you, where you can view, test, and purchase their bikes.

Reliability and Durability

Trek Bikes use only the best quality materials so that their products can handle extreme terrains and any kind of weather.

Trek began with a vision from the two founders to build the best bicycles that the world had ever witnessed.

Thus, the company’s strict observance of the highest possible craftsmanship quality was born.

The company’s collection of bicycles typically receive rave reviews for their build quality. This applies to even their entry-level bikes, which at the price tag they’re sold at, isn’t always known to have the most premium components. Even if their price range generally makes their bikes a luxury, everything about it feels premium and durable when you get your hands on it.

As a testament to their bike’s quality, one Quora user shared that he almost managed to travel across Canada by riding an entry-level 1993 Trek 820 Antelope. This devotion to their founder’s vision endeared many cycling enthusiasts to the company and brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

If there’s anything that remained unanswered, here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Trek e-Bikes.

• Are Trek e-Bikes any good? 

Yes, Trek e-bikes follow the standard set by their conventional siblings. The excellent quality is a given. What makes it even better is that Trek is supported by a vast network of dealers to ensure that parts and maintenance are readily available.

• What happens if Trek e-bikes run out of battery?

If the battery on your Trek e-bike dies, you can no longer use the throttle, nor will you have the benefit of the pedal assist. However, you can still pedal the bike on your own, just like any regular bike.

• Where are Trek e-bikes manufactured?

Trek’s headquarters itself is located in Waterloo, Wisconsin. Still, the manufacturing happens outside the U.S., in countries such as the Netherlands, Taiwan, Germany, and China.

• How do I buy my own Trek e-bike?

Buying a Trek bike is an easy process. You can find the dealer or retailer closest to you using Trek’s Store Finder on their website. Alternatively, you can order them online and have the bike delivered to your address.

• What is the motor used on Trek e-bikes?

All of Trek’s e-bikes use Bosch electric motors . These are mid-drive pedal-assist electric motors meant to mimic a natural, consistent feel while pedaling.

Bottom Point — Who Are Trek E-Bikes For?

Trek Bikes provide the best e-bikes out there. Not only do they have sports bikes like mountain bikes, but they also provide high-quality city and hybrid bikes.

Trek creates their bicycles with the sole purpose of providing reliable vehicles for adventurous spirits. However, the company also caters to those who only want to get from point A to point B without hiccups.

The company offers a lineup of electrical bikes consisting of road bikes, commuter bikes, mountain bikes, and hybrid bikes. Sure, the price may prove to be high for some, but it will all pay off as soon as you see and feel the quality of each part of the bike.

Shop Trek Electric Bike Models

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Trek electric city bikes are sporty, comfortable, and built with dependable drive systems and long-lasting batteries that can be charged at any household outlet — all of which makes them great for daily commutes on city streets, cruises around the neighborhood, and riding just for the fun of it. Plus, many Trek city e-bike models come fully equipped with accessories like racks, fenders, and more, and every model is easy to customize with the gear you need for your specific riding style.

What is a “city e-bike”?

City e-bikes have an electric assist that makes it easier to conquer hills and cover more distance =faster. Most are designed for use on paved surfaces like bike paths and city streets, but they’re also versatile and many are equipped with parts that allow you to venture off smooth surfaces to gravel and mixed surfaces.

How does a city e-bike work?

Trek city e-bikes use pedal-assist systems that engage when you turn the pedals to boost your power. The assist is fun, natural, and intuitive. The best part? It opens a world of possibilities, allowing you to ride farther and faster than ever.

Why you’ll love your city e-bike

Trek electric city bikes give you power and possibility. They shorten your commutes, flatten hills, and let you experience more of what you love about riding.

Safer, sustainable batteries

All Trek e-bike batteries are third-party certified for safety and durability, so all you need to worry about is where you’ll ride next. Plus, we've even partnered with Call2Recycle to safely recycle used e-bike batteries at the end of their life to keep them out of landfills.

Reliable electronics and support

Bosch technology

With long-life batteries, powerful motors, and advanced tech, Bosch e-bike systems offer exceptional reliability and easy connectivity to smartphone apps on select models.

• Shop Bosch-equipped city e-bikes

Hydrive systems

The lightweight Hydrive system offers simplicity and style with a discreet battery and controls for mid-range riding. It’s perfect for first-time e-bike riders and anyone who’ll trade a little range for a lighter setup.

Trek global support

Trek works with only the most trusted partners in e-bike electronics, which is exactly why we can back them with world-class support. We’re here for you!

Sleek, speedy, and ultra-premium. Allant+ makes long commutes fun and is an awesome choice for replacing your car. Assist: Up to 28 mph Range : Up to 80 miles Battery size: 500Wh to 625Wh Frame styles: Diamond and stagger

Verve+ is a comfort-first city e-bike with reliable power and upright riding position that’s perfect for fun recreational rides. Assist: Up to 28 mph Range : Up to 65 miles Battery size: 400Wh to 500Wh Frame styles: Diamond and lowstep

Commute to work, run some errands, or just ride for fun! FX+ is a lightweight city e-bike designed for exploring more of the places you love. Assist: Up to 20 mph Range: Up to 35 miles Battery size: 250Wh Frame styles: Diamond and stagger

Dual Sport+

Dual Sport+ is a versatile and stable adventure-loving hybrid e-bike perfect for exploring multiple surfaces on a single outing. Assist: Up to 20 mph Range: Up to 35 miles Battery size: 250Wh Frame styles: Diamond and stagger

Fetch+ is the ultimate car-replacement bike, with room to carry kids, cargo, and more. Assist: Up to 20 mph Range: Up to 75 miles Battery size: Up to 750Wh Frame styles: Fetch+ 2 (carry up to 2 kids), Fetch+ 4 (carry up to 5 kids)