2013 Organic Transit ELF Review - $5k

The 2013 Organic Transit ELF is a semi-recumbent electric trike with a plastic body resembling a velomobile that has a built in solar panel. Geared hub motor mounted mid-frame provides great torque and is protected from vibration and the elements. Solid safety features including front and rear LED lights, mirrors, and strong disc brakes, optional wheel covers.
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Disclaimer: Due to factors beyond the control of EBR, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. EBR assumes no liability for money loss, property damage, or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. My goal is to report in a transparent and objective way since 2012. Use this information at your own risk. EBR recommends safe practices when working on bicycles, riding bicycles, and using accessories seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of EBR, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EBR.

[@ro0ky]

I am an Elf owner, I purchased it last year in May of 2014. After driving it for a complete season without incident and never being flipped off by any motorist. More often than not people give the thumbs up and smile with curiosity when they pass. I use for commutes between my location and town (17 kms round trip). The route I use has a maximum speed limit of 60 kmh , I can clearly see anything coming to and from me. When I experience a situation where I may be a liability to road traffic I simply pull over and let vehicles pass however most are willing to wait and watch until they can pass safely. Over all I am very well pleased with this bike and recommend it to anyone looking for an alternate form of transportation. It helps our environment, health and is economic when you do the math.

[@johnchamberlain1580]

Cool glad to help. I think the ELF has a lot of potential. I like the design concept.

[@endthedrugwartoday]

Cool! Thanks for another great review!

[@jaukvampire]

Saw one of these today in my little town. Looked very out of place, but very cool. Love it!

[@popeyegordon]

Jauk - actually, all those heavy cars and trucks are out of place. Only buses, bicycles and the ELF are correct in 2018.

[@johnchamberlain1580]

I really like the cvt. I have been stuck at the beginning of a really steep incline finding myself in the wrong gear on other bikes just getting ready to shift down but couldn't because I had to panic stop for some reason- obstruction in the road, somebody in my way, etc. Trying to shift down while trying to pedal with a lot of torque on my crank trying to move up the hill starting from a dead stop often results in slipping the chain. Of course I then go home and adjust my derailleur to try to avoid that but I've had it happen more than once in my biking life. Sometimes had to turn around to get the bike moving so I could shift down and then start back up, of course after I stopped to put the chain back on. With the cvt click, click go. Even with a motor backing you up I think it matters.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

I also appreciate how easy it is to shift with these... It's important to be able to maneuver and support your body (and legs) efficiently when the bike is so heavy like this.

[@LarrysLeatherWork]

We are a senior couple and this would be perfect for shopping and other short runs if its easy to get in and out of plus room for groceries. Our stores are close by.

[@grettagrids]

THIS could come in handy for someone who is disabled and cant ride a regular bike ( I have dysautonomia) My legs cant work all the time but could enough to power this.

[@grettagrids]

***** I cant drive a CAR.. got me a 2003 vespqa anyhow.. I was looking at this as a way to get around.. Knees are both arthritic and I have other disabilities.. I CAN drive a scooter as I have much better depth perception with them. Also it's only a 50CC which requires no liscence in my state :)

[@user-xp3vd9ux5t]

Very cool...I love those side mirrors...what about water splashing up underneath you!.

[@popeyegordon]

Each wheel has a fender. Very little water spray travels vertically and inwards toward the driver - in all cases you are at least 99% dryer than just riding a bike with no shell enclosure. Rain gear on a bicycle ends up getting us soaked in our own sweat. This way we have excellent ventilation.

[@quudee2238]

I need this

[@effortaward]

Anyone know if you can aftermarket these to get a little more speed? Would be nice to be able to go 45-50...? Maybe mod it out with some fat tires and ground effects?

[@tortozza]

This is the future

[@ElectricBikeReview]

tortozza Boom! I like the concept as well...

[@tortozza]

ElectricBikeReview.com I am looking forward to seeing the roads filled with these when fossil fuels run out

[@ElectricBikeReview]

tortozza Me too, so much safer and more social than a traditional vehicle. No more loud motor noises from rude drivers and no more exhaust fumes causing asthma and irritating eyes, no more gasoline runoff in the rivers, lakes and oceans where I surf. I appreciate cars for specific limited applications but the negative externalities aren't worth it at scale as we use them today.

[@blah6913]

+ElectricBikeReview.com When fossil fuel runs out you won't have tires, steel, plastic or aluminum. This is a novelty for people with cash to blow. $5,500? You're in good used car territory and brand new motorcycle bracket. No more trucks, trains or planes to bring you shit, no more building, food or clothing, nothing, just a jungle with people killing each other like animals to survive, no more police, fire trucks or any kind of first responders. No roads without fossil fuel for pavement either. Sounds dreamy. Maybe you could move to Ethiopia and live your utopia now.

[@tortozza]

blah Mass production would push the costs of these right down. When the scenario of fossil fuels running out is mentioned, we don't mean there's literally none left, but supply is so short that simply burning gallons of it is uneconomical, but making it into recyclable plastics is not.

[@AndreLuis-zq4gr]

Por que será que no Brasil ninguém criou isso ainda? Eu adoraria ter um

[@digital2010entity]

They could also made this kind of frame for a 2-wheel bike, purely for wind and rain, like the rear sheet glass, it be a flexy bike frame bubble,like a motor bike that had a wide roof loop that could open like a sports car that have vertical side roll open doors, with only the knees and leg sides exposed to stop/balance.

[@popeyegordon]

Nah, too prone to falling over with a two wheel bike. Three wheels also mean better payload capacity. This hauls 350 pounds.

[@michaelloveday2808]

this a great little way of getting around I would buy this only if it cames to uk

[@ElectricBikeReview]

+Michael Loveday Hey Michael! I think they're working on a second office in the UK, maybe you'll see them there soon :D

[@m9078jk3]

Wouldn't it need a 250 watt assist motor rather than a 750 watt one instead to be legal there?

[@tudorsonea8672]

This is my dream from when i was 5 yr old

[@popeyegordon]

Anime' geeks never grew up.

[@henrythegreatamerican8136]

Hmmmm.... the pedal seems pretty close to the road. How would this thing handle a rainy day or puddles in the road?

[@misslashondacade6973]

Where can I find the app?

[@popeyegordon]

Organic Transit has a new owner named Sun Micromobility. Stay tuned for new versions.

[@alextran8188]

I'd buy one! if they sealed off the bottom, add some doors and maybe a winsheild wiper(s). I live in Seattle so it get decently cold and rains alot.

[@joshuacornell6667]

DId youforget there are pedals which require clearance, so if you put an enclosure around it, that enclosure will likely greatly reduce clearance or possibly impede operation. That said, have seen some velos deqigned with the pedaling inside and very little or no clearance issues.

[@popeyegordon]

Several of them in Seattle. Doors and curtains are available options. You can't use wipers on plastic. We add a coat of carnauba wax once a month. There are optional running boards that make a partial floor. The more it rains, the more the ELF makes sense. I sure wish I had one when I was commuting there. I don't want doors, the rain just blows past the door openings when the vehicle is moving, maybe your elbows get wet, beats getting a full soaking.

[@The1stDukeDroklar]

Love the concept but with no inner wheel cover when you hit a puddle it will splash the interior.

[@AaronMartinCOOLVIDEO]

Cool bike.

[@kauaikit]

Pretty kool….kind'a reminded me of an early Fred Flintstone cartoon, where you used your feet as brakes! :-)

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Ha! That's awesome and you're totally right :P

[@mattn6685]

Court, can you do a review on the PEBL and compare it to the ELF? Would love to hear your verdict on it. Many thanks!

[@wisojojo7561]

it's really nice please can I know the real price and more information about the product because I want to order one for myself and by the way speaking of ordering one where I can buy it? ?

[@popeyegordon]

No, the base price of $7K is not 'fully loaded' although there are now numerous upgrades included that used to be options. Fully loaded would be almost $10K including rear seating. Edit - the base rice is now $8,895.

[@popeyegordon]

Base price has risen to $8,950 No you don't need doors. No you can not do better buying a used car Yes it is very safe compared to any bike No, theft is not a serious problem No it is not too wide for bike trails and lanes No you can not make one cheaper yourself Yes the solar panel works very well

[@esterbelemgomez1736]

Oh man I love it how I wish I could afford it I am going to save my money to buy me one cuz I am tired of falling off of my regular bike lol I have not seen nothing like this in my side of the world

[@jordancalvert1772]

So can you drive this on the road and not have a drivers license?

[@PhumintVisal]

can we lower the seat hight? Because am just 10 years old and am pretty short

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Hey! yeah, the seat slides forward and back to provide a good fit. Might still be a stretch for you until you get a b it taller but the windshield is pretty low and there are no doors so at least you'll be able to see well. the new 1.5 version has an option for a platform dash but I'd skip that in your case because it might obstruct the view a little. I would have loved something like this when I was 10! Ride safe out there :D

[@thefamilystore8781]

can tell me how big the motor is in the elf as looking for something that meets australia dep of transport in australia of 200w motor to classed as a ebike with pedel ass

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Howdy! I record the motor, battery, weight and other specs for each review back at my website (linked in the description above). It looks like the motor used here is 600 watts but that's the US version, they may be able to change motors or offer something different internationally :) electricbikereview.com/organic-transit/2013-elf/

[@seeamerica1]

If it's solar charged but it's cloudy & rainy all week does it also come with an electric plug in cord?

[@seeamerica1]

Good to know, thanks. My next question is if repairs are needed what country would parts come from?

[@seeamerica1]

Again, thanks, all this is good to know.

[@orkoren2780]

wow so cool

[@FirstLast-ml7yf]

I have an Actionbent recumbent trike which I really like and also a Catrike I enjoy. I'm not sure I like the Elfs riding geometry, comfort-wise. It doesn't seem recumbent enough for real comfort, and it doesn't produce the usual recumbent power when your back pushes against the seat as you peddle hard tranlating to real power at the pedal,, almost as good as standing up on a normal bike. It seems semi-recumbent which is a drawback to the human-bike interface on this. But most likely a necessary design compromise, considering its many virtues. A similar people mover in a more recumbent style would be legitimate goal I think. I believe there are cheaper knockoffs of the Elf out there which could be easily homebrewed into a similarly effective (probably more) people-mover. A nice retirement project/business.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Hi Chris, good thoughts. I've been keeping an eye out for more recumbent style ebikes and reviewed the Outriders recently and saw a new one from Virtue Bicycles that I hope to test in the neat future. Which recumbent designes do you like? I bet many could be converted to electric with a BionX kit. I tested a Catrike at their Headquarters earlier this year and it worked very well (but t his recumbent has no fairings) electricbikereview.com/bionx/s-350/

[@cheekyboyz8121]

Wow this is amazing! do you need a license to ride these?

[@seeamerica1]

+Cheeky Boyz That's what I want to know. But I'll guess it's like scooters, depending on how fast it goes on the roads, no matter how it's powered. Scooters under 35mph need no license on it, over 35 yes. This said it will go 20mph (for now but I'll bet the next models will improve to a faster speed). I'm sure the driver as of yet anyway doesn't need to carry a license , maybe one day. I like the idea of a roof, but I can see without a floorboard of some kind you will get wet anyway.

[@TimothyFish]

+Cheeky Boyz It depends on what state you are in. US federal law classifies it as a bicycle, but some states, such as Texas, only consider two wheeled vehicles bicycles. Since it has a "deck", it could be considered a motor assisted scooter in Texas, but those are limited to roads with speed limits of 35mph or less. The only other options are moped and motorcycle, both of which require a license. But I think California considers it a bicycle, so it would not require a license there.

[@seeamerica1]

Good to know

[@msmanmalli5382]

Cheeky Boyz lankawe trweel daanna balanna

[@fueledbymusic3]

Love your voice!

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Ha! Thanks Gilbert, I try to bring enthusiasm or some dynamic quality to each review to communicate how I'm feeling while reciting the technical specs and then doing the ride. Growing up I was in choir and since then my range has suffered a bit but I do enjoy talking. Glad you've enjoyed listening ;)

[@AlzonaParker]

How can I order one right now. I was gonna get motorcycle but not now

[@popeyegordon]

No license, gas or engine maintenance required. No neighbors irritated by motorcycle noise, No pollution. This is a matter of personal responsibility for not contributing to global warming and not squandering more than your fair share of resources.

[@khadijamohamed2514]

how much it cost..? is there a way to know more about it

[@popeyegordon]

OrganicTransit.com

[@tranlily3001]

Sorry my silly question cause I don't speak English well. If this is electric solar power, why you need use strength of legs to run this? I though we just turn on the button to start electric to run it. How can ppl use this if they have to go to long road in hot weather summer? I mean run this by legs strength, it cost a lot energy. It's make ppl sweat like hell when they use this to go to the work in summer day.

[@popeyegordon]

You don't 'need' to pedal, the chance to get exercise and extend the battery range is a very good feature. Mine is in Florida. I get shade from the roof and pedal very little if it is a hot day. If I was going to work on a hot day I would not pedal but I would stay fairly cool inside the body. The seat is web mesh, very cool. I have a second battery for long trips.

[@joealburgh8016]

Do you need a licence to drive this contraption around?

[@DavidSvoboda100]

given that the motor is 500W I believe it would be illegal to run it without license in the UK or elsewhere in the EU. Am I right? If yes, that is unfortunate.. :(

[@joshuacornell6667]

EU limits electric assist to 250w so yes it is illegal or outside of the law.

[@captainpaul8266]

Does it include 🚪 door

[@popeyegordon]

Two types of doors are optional.

[@henrythegreatamerican8136]

why would I spend nearly $6,000 on this when I can wait for the ELIO to come out next year and get a 3 wheeled car for about $7000 that gets 84mpg and can be used on the freeway?

[@yamaguchihirokiskyyamaguch2854]

i like this cause we don't need to scarce of rain . but bad for singapore .singapore not allow us to make this .

[@misbahabbas5107]

Its cool 😍if u have this then u don't need to go to gym 😂

[@leitaojiang3670]

are they allowed on the road

[@ElectricBikeReview]

leitao jiang Sort of... It depends on the road and your city laws. This thing is classified as a bicycle so anywhere you ride a bike this thing should be allowed.

[@craigking391]

I have seen one of these in a shop and they are too large, as big as a small car. At just over 4 feet wide and 9 feet long it takes up all or more than a standard bike lane. organictransit.com/faq/ azbikelaw.org/blog/aashto-guide-for-the-development-of-bicycle-facilities/ www.pedbikeinfo.org/planning/facilities_bike_bikelanes.cfm Also, the price at the bike shop was $9,000, not $5,500, but it was in San Francisco near Powell Street so it was probably overpriced. Still, they could do a lot better on price and cut the size down.

[@briannasnow7967]

How do you buy this

[@popeyegordon]

OrganicTransit.com

[@jacobellinger8027]

so did the company go bankrupt? I can't find this online anywhere?

[@popeyegordon]

The company borrowed too much money. The remnants like parts, patents, tooling etc. are up for auction but the pandemic has delayed such things. The 1000 ELF owners are well organized. We support each other in 3 Facebook groups. We are optimistic that someone will take over where OT left off. There is a need for this class of vehicle in many countries. Used ELF comes up for sale about once a week, they sell fast. There is the occasional E-bay listing but the most active listings are at the non-profit AnyoneCanBike.com site.

[@popeyegordon]

Organic Transit has a new owner named Sun Micromobility. Stay tuned for new versions. Their website never shut down.

[@MakoRuu]

Does peddling not generate electricity?

[@ElectricBikeReview]

This bike doesn't offer regeneration but several others do including the Smart Ebike electricbikereview.com/smart/ebike/ as well as the Specialized Turbo and anything with the BionX system or the MagicPie kit. If you pull the brake lever or activate regeneration mode they will recoup some electricity but if you were pedaling to charge the battery it would take a long time and be inefficient given the heat you expend as a rider and the friction of the overall system. Many people think of it as a novelty but it does save your brake pads and it can extend riding range and come in handy if you encounter a lot of hills :)

[@MakoRuu]

That's rad. I really wanted one of these.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

***** I think any bike could be stolen given the right amount of time and environment. I always bring mine inside for the night and when I ride to work I park in a covered garage and use a U-Lock with two cables (a long one for the wheels and a short one for the saddle). I also have bicycle insurance which offers some peace of mind and protects me from financial hardship in the event of an accident. Here's more info on bike insurance: electricbikereview.com/guides/insurance-for-electric-bikes/

[@joealburgh8016]

Do you need a licence to drive this contraption around? you park this as car or bike area?

[@joshuacornell6667]

Last i looked for US, No need or requirement to have a license to operate as it fall under federal guidelines as a bicycle. Have a quadcycle/quadracycle with electric motor and it also is still a bicycle.

[@fensterlandofensterreinigu4465]

i like one :-)

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Me too, these little EV's are very cool! My favorite part is the solar panel :)

[@TallyPrime]

is it available in india??? and what is cost for this bike in india?

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Hi Satish, I'm not really sure? I think they are mostly in the US for now but it does appear that they have shipped internationally before. Here is the FAQ page of their website for more information: organictransit.com/faq-2/ the second bullet talks about shipping to Europe :)

[@BusyLittleStudios]

ElectricBikeReview.com The correct URL is organictransit.com/faq/ Cheers!

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Desmond Mullen Thanks Desmond, not sure how I messed that up? Maybe the page changed recently or something.

[@deletedauto6542]

For you veddy cheap. And i say that tilting my head from left to right then right to left repeating the words veddy cheap smiling as i do so....

[@slidingsky7]

so on this bike we don't need helmets?

[@ElectricBikeReview]

It's probably best to always wear a helmet. I often do for extended rides and then when I'm going to do the spoken parts there have been times where I forget to put it back on. Thanks for the tip ;)

[@kblewis3331]

It is still classified as a bicycle & yes a helmet is standard safety equipment for all bicycles. In some places, required by law, other places only for kids up to a certain age..... Again, whatever regulations that apply to bicycles applies to an ELF.

[@joealburgh8016]

you need a licence to drive this contraption around? you park this as car or bike area?

[@popeyegordon]

No license required in all 50 states. You can roll right up to a bike rack or lock it to a post near the front door of stores. No more long walks from your car parking space.

[@hx.925]

Does it have reverse?

[@popeyegordon]

Not needed, any more than a bicycle needs reverse. Just push with your feet.

[@hx.925]

@@popeyegordon Cool. Thank you!!

[@nestorramirez339]

cual es su precio? what is you $?

[@popeyegordon]

Base price is now $7000 US.

[@johnchamberlain1580]

I like it but it does kind of remind me of Fred Flintstone's car that he got going with his feet.

[@kcnham292]

bad suspension or no suspension

[@popeyegordon]

That's why most of us go for the 3 inch tire upgrade. I run mine at 24 PSI which is comfortable enough.

[@MaddenMobileMadness]

Do u need ur liscense

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Connor Martire Hi Connor, no! This qualifies as a bicycle in the United States and does not require a license or insurance. If you don't want to spend as much and are okay on a more traditional two-wheel bicycle then check out these other options that might blend in more: electricbikereview.com/top-10-electric-bikes/

[@fraylock]

ElectricBikeReview.com I ordered an elf a 2 1/2 months ago, and would add that that is not true everywhere. Yes, by federal law, no license is required, but in some states and local areas it is (Missouri, for instance). This should get you started: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle_laws

[@TheGreatUtopiaCat]

this is fucking sick holy

[@insomniactheater8165]

Well fred flintstone did it without petals and the whoke family could ride with him lol no suspension or floor boards saved on its weight its design is badass so many vehicles like this are springing up i cant wait to see what they all bring to life very cool

[@gsotoaz]

Do you get paid to do these reviews? How do you do so many?!

[@tulhoanderson5219]

legal quero uma.

[@abrarahmed7291]

one fail: you cant leave your stuff in it or use it for storage it has no trunk or lock.

[@linus3995]

True haha

[@LeesChannel]

+Abrar Ahmed It has both

[@joshuacornell6667]

Video proves it clearly DOES have a trunk but no real lock per say. Though no bike has a lock with it.

[@dumyjobby]

the "a pillar" is very big, it doesn't look structural so why make it so large, ruin the 3/4 view

[@JoeGP]

That battery is high end for a normal electric bike, but for this it's kinda small. Will you be making a video of the newer model ? Also is it just me or does that front logo look like the Tata logo ? and speaking of Tata, they make a car for around half the price of this electric bike en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tata_Nano

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Hey Joe! They do offer larger packs (and lots of other accessories) but that adds to the price, and it adds up quick... I did review the newer model and liked the rubber shocks and the new direct drive motor: electricbikereview.com/organic-transit/elf/

[@JoeGP]

Electric Bike Review cool, thanks, i added it to my watch later list

[@Skyhawk1998]

The Nano is not available in most developed countries, though. It utterly bombed GlobalNCAP's crash test.

[@JoeGP]

***** it figures

[@ElectricBikeReview]

***** Yeah, I think most bicycles and recumbents would also fail in crash tests vs. a car. That's why I love that you can ride through parks and on paths to avoid traffic. At least the ELF is easier to see with the sides and lights on it but there aren't any real safety features built in besides more space around you.

[@masterkit9517]

если бы он еще летал

[@prieten49]

$5500 !!!!!! Fifty-five hundred bucks? How about 550,000 cents? That makes sound more reasonable.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Stuart M. I'm not sure I could carry that many pennies XD

[@muratsimsir9465]

Türkiye yede gönderin lütfen bunlardan, çok alasım geldi ya laa. !

[@MsDaisy56]

should be compulsory for all inner city dwellers

[@ElectricBikeReview]

MsDaisy56 That would make for a very cool city :D

[@rogergeyer9851]

Yeah, I'm sure everyone over 60 or 70 will just love it. And especially as they get beyond 85.

[@death299]

roger, seniors generally like riding bikes and walking around (getting around on their own feet in general) as they get older it becomes harder to get on/off due to height and harder to pedal (due to weaker limbs) just outright harder to walk for that matter bikes like this provide a comfortable sitting position, and a low angle to get into the vehicle at the only "problems" with it aren't huge issues that could never be worked out a seat that swivels or pulls out with a locking mechanism solves the going through 2 bars issue, and a variable throttle solves the pedaling issue (though most would still choose to use pedal assist as much as their legs will physically allow)

[@rogergeyer9851]

josh, that's what I was pointing out, with some sarcasm.

[@martinnavarro8529]

😍

[@MarkOhlson]

KOOL

[@marcushill5060]

When they become used and played out maybe the price would drop

[@M3iscool]

If I drove this where I'm from, people would break out the windows out of spite. Even in my dad's Honda Insight he gets flipped off and tailgated daily. :(

[@ElectricBikeReview]

That's really sad... sorry to hear it. Maybe those people weren't treated very well when they were growing up and don't realize that they are poisoning themselves and their children with consumerism and overconsumption based on personal insecurity. Their unsustainable choices and aggressive behavior certainly haunt them... just wish forward thinking individuals such as your father didn't have to suffer - we are all connected.

[@M3iscool]

Electric Bike Review Indeed we are yes. Yeah it is pretty sad. Granted, he is somewhat obvious, with his miles per gallon printed right on the back of his car, which is 70 by the way(amazing). We also live in the south, so...need I say more?

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Everyone Relax I love that little Honda Insight... was like the first hybrid and one of the most efficient ones ever! Pretty limited space and utility in some respects but a wonderful design for hypermiling :)

[@M3iscool]

Electric Bike Review Yeah it's a cool little car.

[@Devarapalli]

In India Tata failed in a project called car for a lakh, if Tata take up this kind of project, dam sure it will become a great success🏆💪

[@johngrenier6422]

Price needs to come down

[@ElectricBikeReview]

I'm sure they're working on it but given the solar panel, custom frame with mid-mounted hub motor and high power drivetrain this bike/transporter is on par with other similarly specced two-wheel products available right now. If you're looking for a more affordable ebike I've created a list of reviews here: electricbikereview.com/tag/affordable/

[@johngrenier6422]

Sounds about right then...big cars and trucks would mow me down...

[@ElectricBikeReview]

John Grenier Depending on where you live traffic can be a real deterrent to riding bicycles but the ELF actually stands out quite a bit which is kind of nice for safety. I'd rather risk my life riding a bicycle contributing to a friendlier community, cleaner environment, reduced geo-political strife and healthier body than give up and drive a car everywhere around town (cars definitely have their place of course, I use one for road trips and rent for sky trips). The distracted individual who maims a cyclist may survive physically but will likely suffer mentally and emotionally for a lifetime.

[@johngrenier6422]

Lol :)

[@derekmaxwell8164]

@@ElectricBikeReview does this require insurance?

[@jeffmullinix7916]

Do they make it in a convertible ?

[@popeyegordon]

No, because we want the constant function of the solar panel. An articulated roof would increase total weight and reduce the core strength of the body shell and frame which protect the driver better than any other bike sold.

[@KHfreak7526]

Do u need a drivers license

[@TimothyFish]

+khfreak 7526, that depends on which state you are in. In some states, this vehicle would be classified as a moped or a motorcycle. In some states, it is considered a bicycle.

[@harrisonevans131]

That will be cool. Because I like nerf guns so I can stash them and I love riding bikes

[@ebuff57]

insane

[@popeyegordon]

Insanely smart. 800 sold so far.

[@mindyourownbusinessfatty]

The Future is Orange

[@ElectricBikeReview]

+Mr .Creosote One of my favorite colors and drinks XD

[@aneva54250]

ElectricBikeReview.com

[@mindyourownbusinessfatty]

Mike B It has to be waffer thin.

[@muratsimsir9465]

Bombili seni.. :)

[@DivergentDroid]

I love the idea but I have an E-Bike that will do 30 mph and know what it takes in parts. This ELF is WAY overpriced. My 26 in mountain e-bike was a single hub motor 750w DIY kit under 1000 with 48 volts. They added solar, a wheel, some lights a canopy, extra gears for torque which I could probably do for another 1500. Similar 100w or 128w solar non ridged can be had for as little as 148 and 200 dollars. Anyone could make that ELF go faster by upping the voltage so you don't have to have a 20 MPH limit.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Divergent Droid They've had to price it a bit higher to make it into a business, for those who don't know how or don't want to modify and build themselves it's a neat option but you're right about alternatives. If you do build home made ELF please share a video or something, that sounds awesome!

[@AelielAT]

As someone who has actually looked into what it would take to manufacture something like this I think you are way off. Yes, you could build a basic shell for 1500 but to incorporate turn signals, headlights, adjustability for various riders, durability and simplicity the price is good. Compare it to other velomobiles (almost none of which have these features) and the price is good. And if they can ramp up production the price could come down a bit farther.

[@mysurlytrucker7510]

I really like it , but as soon as you get interaction with a car as in any crash , whether there is any recorded or not so far , you will be in a poor way , a car will I would think smash it to bits, and flatten the person in it , my point was I like it , but not on a road , and it's on most paths to big , so with a better shift in attitude to the transportation problem we have , this could have a place , I just don't think on a road it would be to safe , not its fault, its other drivers faults impatience, you see it any trip you take on a road day in day out , it's not right , but it is the reality when people are behind the wheel of a vehicle. we need more of a Dutch system.

[@mysurlytrucker7510]

I was meaning their infrastructure with safer paths excetra .

[@mysurlytrucker7510]

Thank you , your so lucky.

[@popeyegordon]

The only collision I am aware of was an ELF being t-boned in an intersection. It was shoved sideways 30 feet before the car stopped. The driver was unscathed, the crumple zones of the body worked. This is safer than a bike. I got rid of my car and use the ELF every day. Three years of paying no insurance or gas and getting exercise everywhere I ride.

[@OU81TWO]

Looks rickety as fuck. (Sorry for the bad language but I needed to emphasise "rickety")

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Ha! Fair... it's actually very sturdy, combining an aluminum frame with the plastic composite shell (it's designed to flex just like buildings built for earthquakes). Earthquake Test

[@eldorkpistolero1555]

for 5500 I can get a sport motorcycle, for that price it should come with a radio and doors

[@popeyegordon]

It is now $8,450 and still the demand exceeds the supply. Motorcycle comparison is apples and oranges. radios are old hat, millennials like I-pods and smart phones.

[@eldorkpistolero1555]

Popeye Gordon I would not pay 8,450 for that ELF I rather buy a 1985 dual sport motocycle and a old 1976 truck for a little more then a elf and put in the money to rebuild the engine and put in a new radio in the truck without looking gay as hell in a ELF. Then I would build a go cart for less then 800 dollars and I'd still come ahead then a gay elf contraption

[@popeyegordon]

Your values mean you have no concern for the environment and you do not care that you are stealing more than your fair share of resources from future generations. Doors are an option that most do not want, you get too hot and the windows fog. Radios are obsolete, people now use smart phones and I-pods. You obviously have some sort of manhood insecurity issue as well. Nothing is more manly and maturely secure than being fully responsible for your impact on our world.

[@rogergeyer9851]

I just looked at the website. The Elf Solo now STARTS at $8500. Sorry, but you've GOT to be kidding. When people want to spend $9000 and up on an EV, they'll be using the used EV full car market the vast majority of the time. For similar money, there's no comparison it terms of safety, speed, convenience, range, etc. when looking at where real world EV cars are rapidly heading. And if the people raving that EV's will last for decades with very little maintenance are accurate (I don't think we know yet), then the idea that used ones won't be available and practical is a fail.

[@popeyegordon]

Not if they want to actually live sustainably. All heavy personal cars in the 2 to 4000 lb weight class steal more than their fair share of resources from future generations regardless of power source. Excessively large high speed vehicles require too much infrastructure. From parking spaces to roads to garages to brake dust to road kill it is more than the planet's ecosystem can bear. The price is a segue to the new OT model 2.0 with rear suspension, regen braking and reverse gear as well as other improvements. Even at this new price the demand exceeds the supply. Get used to it, eventually these new light vehicles will be in greater demand than the climate controlled over powered high speed couches because they will be seeing a new steep environmental tax that will not be applied to sustainable designs. Only the 1% will be able to afford the heavy luxury vehicles.

[@rogergeyer9851]

How about an actual EV, with a mostly recyclable LI battery, a 200 mile plus range, etc. And powering it with a solar roof? To me this seems actually practical and realistic in the US today. Not like the Elf, unless you're going to charge roghly $2000 instead of nearly $10,000.

[@angeliquebarbey971]

I wish that velomobiles would become a household word but before this is to happen certain vehicular laws need to be changed and the velomobile needs to be taken out of the bike category! I am the owner of a velomobile called the Tripod. Please do not call my velomobile a bike. The needs of a velomobile are not the same as with a stand-up 2-wheeled vehicle and far from it! Maybe I should have bought the Elf instead but I want a fully enclosed peddle/electric vehicle, not a partially enclosed one and one with power enough to take me to speeds beyond 20mph! The distances are great here in California! If I had bought the Elf, however, I am sure that I would not have bought all the problems which I bought with my Tripod at the same time such as shockingly bad customer service for starters! I certainly never have had a problem with automobiles seeing me though nor with anyone trying to steal my Tripod. What good would it do them anyway? Piloting it is not for the initiate even though no licence is required. I knew almost right away that in order to improve my Tripod I needed to seek the help of a welder willing to take on the task but he was not easy to find and once he was found it is now taking him ages to complete the improvements set out in the proposal signed in March of this year of 2015. Velomobiles are very light in weight with 3 or more wheels but I do not see the need for them to be open on the sides. I park my velomobile in a car's lot. It is too big to park on the sidewalk. Shop owners may complain if I do.We did not really hear much about the lighting system of the Elf. It is important if one intends to operate a velomobile at night as well as during the day such as I do that they be good. I thought as from the advertisements that the lighting system of the Tripod would be excellent...they are not and certainly not for nightly use! In this video of the Elf we do not see much of what it is capable of doing on the road. How does it steer? This is very important. Personally I prefer to listen to music as a am piloting along with my Tripod so mine has 2 sets of batteries, the main one for locomotion and 2 for the speakers for my music!

[@angeliquebarbey971]

I don't want to discuss global warming with you. What I wrote has to do with velomobiles, not global warming! A velomobile is a peddle powered vehicle, either fully enclosed or partially enclosed like the Elf. Oftentimes it has a motor assist.

[@DJMarrufo]

"pretty reasonable for a rich person" 😂😂

[@joshuacornell6667]

You are not thinking of the fuel you save not using the car instead for short trips to the store, not to mention the few buck in insurance compared to the automobile along with no need for an oil change like a car (the NuVinci requires yearly/mileage interval change for oil bath as with any internal gear system). If you still do not see the difference like I do, then have fun wasting money on those 30 mile round trips with your gas engine powered automobile.

[@popeyegordon]

How many new cars cost $7,000? And how many let you operate them legally without insurance or license? Or fuel?

[@techwizpc4484]

Can you actually use this for Uber service?

[@robhess817]

The electrical system in my new elf failed and I've been waiting three months for replacement parts. Non-existent customer service. Beware.

[@joshuacornell6667]

Yeah seems to me you are too lazy to find those parts elsewhere online, they are off the shelf stuff.

[@robhess817]

Yeah, seems to me you're a moron

[@robhess817]

Yup, I've seen that page. My problems were with the controller box, it had to be replaced. Still having headlight issues. Very flimsy wire harness.

[@robhess817]

I've been pretty rough with mine also, I've flipped it over a couple times, got a big crack in one of the fenders. I can handle any mechanical problems, but I'm electronically retarded.

[@mitchellsteindler]

Cool thing but I do not think it is worth that price. It seems pretty cheaply built from this glance. Maybe I just don't like it...

[@JoeGP]

it feels cheaply built because it has no interior or sound damping, but there is a reason for that, to keep it light. Also there are recumbent bikes for $12.000 without a roof, so i say that's not a bad price

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Joe G.P. Right on Joe, this thing is surprisingly affordable for what you get and the company is in America and treats their employees very well. It's kind of amazing to be honest... Really enjoyed the visit :)

[@mitchellsteindler]

The thing is, the parts to make these electric bikes are not THAT expensive. It's just that people aren't willing to put the parts together themselves (understandably) and so the companies charge a lot. At a research forum at my university they put together an electric bike for 500. It is kind of the opposite of non-electric bikes really. Putting together a standard bike is way more expensive than buying a pre-made one. So...maybe things will change but for now electric bikes are still rip offs generally.

[@JoeGP]

Mitchell Steindler i do agree right they charge a premium because they can, because it's "future tech", but then again there are "plain" bikes that cost thousands too. Also some of these electric bikes have a lot of R&D behind them, with specialized frames and batteries, you can't just buy those off the shelf, also there are $500 new electric bikes if you look hard enough, but they don't come highly recommended

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Joe G.P. Great points Joe, the best part about the ELF (and the reason I'd pay more) is the custom canopy with built in solar charger! Even the frame is custom with larger 26" wheels that will go smooth over bumps. I don't have a welder and wouldn't want to risk setting this up with a kit and making a custom length chain etc. In my opinion it's a great value but it's true that there are good kits as well and you could make your own, most just don't have pedal assist or some of the nicer battery packs that blend in. I'm willing to pay more for that :)

[@Brendonbosy]

Why not just go all the way and get an electric car? i dont see the advantage of this. Seems pretty dangerous and you lose the manuverability of a standard ebike

[@Ulyaoth74]

+Brendon Bosy Affordability and ease of use. An electric car its around 20k+ and needs charging stations. So you have to plan your route to make sure you don't run out of juice. The Elf is 6k and is powered by light and pedaling. So you don't need charging stations. Also their are claims that you don't need insurance for this thing, were as you do need it for a full electric car.

[@popeyegordon]

All vehicle in the 4000+ pound weight class, regardless of how they are powered, are excessive waste of resources and they require too much nature suffocating infrastructure like roads and parking spaces. Plus you never get exercise behind the wheel. Every day you drive a car is a guaranteed cardiac injury for that day and it piles up.

[@BIG1TOWER]

I like this thing I just think the price should be about 3500.00 but starting at 5500.00 that alot

[@JoeGP]

actually compared to other electric bikes it's not much, not at all, but yeah it's a lot of money, i think there are actual cars you can buy for that money, like the Tata Nano. If you watch some of the previous videos though you can see some recumbent bikes for as much as $12.000

[@BIG1TOWER]

Joe G.P. yea I know but I still might get one it looks fun and you can stay in shape

[@JoeGP]

BIG1TOWER you don't need electricity to stay in shape, just get a normal bike

[@mysurlytrucker7510]

Sorry but way to unsafe on same roads as cars. If it was aloud on its own lane , with a barrier I would quite like one , but until that time , all stick to a e bike . You can get away from cars at least on paths.

[@joshuacornell6667]

Go ahead and do a search engine query on accidents or incidents (preventable accidents) with the ELF and you will not get anything. Yet.

install godzilla controller and motor bldc ,,, so veery fast ciclecar :D

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Ha, I've seen the Zilla controllers for electric cars is that what you mean? cafeelectric.com/zilla.php

si broo son muy potentes ! . soi español , perdona mi escritura , un saludo amigo !

[@oldjohnboy1]

steeper hill!!!!!!

[@ElectricBikeReview]

John Hill Are you suggesting that I find a steeper hill to climb for the ride test? I did my best in this neighborhood, I often arrive in town for just a day to do reviews like this and it can be difficult to find good testing terrain ;)

[@BriansMac]

Not very good when it's snowing I bet...

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Brians Mac Ha! Yeah, most ebikes struggle in the snow but at least this one would keep you a bit more dry. Keep an eye out this week or next for a fat bike called the Felt Outfitter. I got to test ride it in the snow and the footage should be really cool :D

[@veganvocalist4782]

LOOOOOOOOOOOOVE this ha ha ;D)))))

[@OJA23122011]

Rip off $5500!!!! Three weels a small motor & a solar panal !!!

[@ElectricBikeReview]

There's also a battery in there ;) I think the price of the ELF is higher because it's totally custom and hand assembled in the US. Organic Transit is a pretty neat company and compared with some other normal ebikes that cost $5K+ you actually get a lot here with the lights and different seating/storage configurations. Here's a video interview I did with the founder during the same visit as the review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q16QlXdnoayZmNE

[@eboy4032]

A real chick magnet

[@shckltnebay]

$9700 lol

[@popeyegordon]

A car costs you between $30 to $60,000 every ten years to own and operate. The ELF costs you $3000 in total to operate daily for 10 years. Therefore, balking at the buy-in price is penny wise and pound foolish.

[@shckltnebay]

Your opinion, if you are driving a car ONLY the distance you drive the ELF you will NEVER need to replace it or service it! FYI my friend just got a 2017 Ford Escape SE with 3k miles for $24k total and its got a/c, cruise control, BT, backup camera and if you really needed to you could sleep in it

[@popeyegordon]

Eric - I already explained that the total typical cost for 10 years of driving the ELF would be about $3000 including two battery replacements, two brake pad sets, three tire sets and chain maintenance , it's only a bike so there is no $3000 transmission or $5000 motor to blow up. A motor replacement is only about $300 including bike shop labor @ the typical $25/hr. Most people can do simple bike maintenance, not like cars. Your friend will spend well over $30,000 in the next ten years on depreciation plus all the other expenses. There is no limit to the distance the ELF can cover, three 4,000 trips have been completed by ELF owners who hauled their camping gear and extra batteries. No gas was purchased, no oil changes or license or registration. The unreasonable comfort level of a rolling 4000 lb steel caged climate controlled couch is no longer sustainable for 2 billion drivers on this planet. And we all need exercise but we never get it in cars.

[@AndrewBryantPianoTuner]

10 A/H is useless it desperately need at least 40 A/H

[@ElectricBikeReview]

They have larger battery options and you could easily carry a spare (or two or three) given the cargo capacity of this thing. If the default were 40ah the cost would be much higher. This way each customer can choose how much they need and have an inexpensive "base"

[@johnchamberlain1580]

A 40 A/H lithium battery right now at current prices would cost about $1600 just for the battery and weigh around 16 lbs.

[@johnchamberlain1580]

John Chamberlain You also have to remember this is a 48 Volt system. A 12 volt lithium battery for a car runs at about $500- $600 right now. If battery prices come way down like most electronic devices over time then electric vehicles will become very. very cheap. But I don't see that happening very soon. The major cost for any electric vehicle is the battery.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

John Chamberlain Thanks for the details on price and weight here John, I'm excited to see the tech get lighter and less expensive in the coming years. I think the ELF has done a pretty good job considering they also packed in a 100 watt solar panel. It's a unique little machine :)

[@UrgenthelpwithSubscriptionsHel]

Too expansive without suspension. The shocks will damage the accesories and the body in maximum 2 years. A single wheel can hold so much wheight if it's a scooter wheel behind. Not bike wheel. It's too thin. I am not agree with this inovation. I wanted to buy one but as I see with my enineering skills, I can say it's made from cheap materials, just a business to take a lot of money from bikers. This is not a safe vehicle on rear wheel. Too much wind will push in the front at the pedals. In the winter it's worst than a open motorbike. This inovation isn't worth for this exagerate prices. It's good for taxes and business and environment. But not good for riders. Guys, don't buy this. Wait for an electric enclosed solar quad bike.

[@popeyegordon]

Sorry, all your idle speculation not based on real world experience is incorrect. I have had mine 4 years now with no damage due to vibration or bumps. I weigh 300 pounds and use the popular 3 inch tires although the standard 2 inch tires are fully capable of taking maximum loading in front and the rear is a 2.5 inch tire. We can see 800 pound circus bears riding a unicycle with a 2 inch tire. This is the safest bike ever made in all history! Full 360 degree crumple zone protection from collisions means no one has been injured yet in the many collisions with cars. The body shell you claim is too flimsy absorbs the shocks and bounces off. Your engineering skills are shit. Several million three wheeled bikes are used safely. In winter it is far warmer than any other bike or motorcycle in existence you liar. We pedal to stay warm and the shell cuts the wind chill. Consumers have already proved Samuel wrong by buying 1000 ELFs and they are now also buying the newer copy cat vehicle, the PEBL. These are specifically designed to avoid classification as a motor vehicle so there is no license, insurance or driver license required. Guys, ignore this fool. I have saved $12,000 in just 4 years by NOT owning a car and driving my ELF instead. No co2 emissions, good exercise and the gawkers with questions never stop. I have described my vehicle to no less than 7000 curious people in 4 years. They love it! They are used to seeing me all over town all year around. Quad bikes do not fall under US law as bicycles and require full treatment as a motor vehicle.

[@popeyegordon]

Update as I start my 5th year car free: My savings are now up to $15,000 and my health is better because of the fun exercise. As you can see, my continued success in year 5 despite my 300 pound body weight proves this Samuel jackass was dead wrong. My ELF wheels are extra strong double walled aluminum and I have only broken two spokes, less than average for a bike. Last week I hauled two 20 pound propane tanks for exchange in my bike trailer, up over a hill with no sweat. The original shine on the outside of my ELF's body shell is intact and I have never waxed it yet. I have yet to have my first flat tire while traveling but I carry a tube and pump just in case. This is an extremely comfortable bike with its reclined web seat and weather protection.