Elife Air: ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The Elife Air has been built using a 6061 Alloy frame that is lightweight, sturdy and durable. Being a folding bicycle with a adjustable handlebar and seatpost, the bicycle can be used by anyone between 5 feet and 6 feet 2 inches. This enables a rider to adjust the seat and handlebar based on the geometry of their body and their ideal riding position.

Elife folding e-bicycles have a 10-second easy fold frame design, with easy to use levers that enable a quick tool-free folding experience. An easy to operate folding frame ensures quick and hassle-free portability and storage.

Designing folding bicycles involves an intricate thought process in order to make the bicycle as compact as possible, while delivering on performance. Additionally, an e-bicycle that is foldable adds to the complexity of the design process. Hence, a folding e-bike might come across as odd-looking when seen for the first time. That said, the Elife Air is a great looking E-bicycle that is available in two colour options - Black with Yellow Decals and Blue with White decals. The concealed battery that is integrated into the frame adds to the overall pleasing aesthetics of this bicycle.

The Elife Air is a straightforward, no fuss single-speed bicycle with pedal assist. A single-speed bicycle is easy to use eliminating the complexity of figuring out gearing (especially for a beginner). That said, I feel a slight need for some sort of gearing, or a bigger crank, when using the higher levels of assist.

The Elife Air comes equipped with a brushless DC motor that is located on the hub of the rear wheel. This motor is waterproof and is powered by a rechargeable 36 Volt Lithium-ion battery, with a capacity of 7Ah, which delivers additional battery power assistance when pedalling. The bicycle is equipped with electric pedal assist technology that has 9 distinguished power assistance modes which can be adjusted according to the rider’s requirement using the assist changer buttons on the LCD display unit that is placed on the handlebar. Additionally, this display shows the speed, time, distance and battery level. Furthermore, the display has a white back light which ensures optimum readability in darker riding conditions, like early mornings and at night.

A single charge of this battery enables a mileage of 35-50 kilometers. (These mileages are an estimate, and may differ slightly with varied riding conditions). The charging point for the battery is on the left side of the frame above the bottom bracket. However, the battery can also be removed from the frame and charged. The battery is safely locked and requires a key to be removed. The average battery life is estimated to be 3-4 years.

When on the test ride, I found that the pick up offered by the pedal assist was evident from the first pedal stroke, and there was a noticeable change in power offered by each level of assist when using the different assist levels offered.

The Elife Air comes Power V-Brakes. The stopping power offered enables safe and stable braking, even at speeds of 20-25kmph. The brake levers are well placed and require only two to three fingers to operate. The handlebarbar grips are ergonomically designed with extended palm support that ensures added comfort.

The bicycle is equipped with a 580mm Alloy folding handlebar, whose height is easily adjustable. The width of the handlebar enables a relaxed and comfortable riding position while ensuring additional control and maneuverability of the bicycle. The stable maneuverability offered by the handlebar ensures quick and safe handling in crowded riding spaces.

The Elife Air comes equipped with Kenda 20” x 1.75” tires that are attached to 20” Alloy rims. The width of the wheels ensure optimum comfort and stability required for city commutes. The treading on the tires ensure great grip and stability on uneven roads. It is no doubt that the treading will allow for adequate control and grip while riding on wet surfaces. The dimensions of the tire allows for smooth rolling even over bumpy city roads laden with potholes and loose sand. Furthermore, the QR on the seat post enables easy adjustment of the saddle height while on the go. The stock PU saddle is well cushioned, and has an ideal length and width to ensure comfort even when on longer rides.