Unisex Electric Bike, Made by Giant, Slight Use, Mint.

The Giant Suede E electric bike features three different modes of riding. Aside from functioning like a standard bike, you can ride it in the pedal activated power assist mode. While in this mode, stepping lightly on the pedal will cause power to push assist you. Basically, you will put in a small amount of effort and the electric motor will put in the rest. As long as you pedal, you will receive power. It's an intelligent system, so it will give you an appropriate amount of assistance based on how much pressure you're applying to the pedals. For example, if you're going uphill you merely apply more pressure to the pedals and the system will know to assist you more. If you're going downhill you will be putting very little or no pressure on the pedals, and the system will know to help you less, if at all. the third mode is eco = econemy mode, you need to put slightly more presure on the pedals but your overall distance per charge is greatly increased by about a third more.

The Suede E has a 15 mile-per-hour cut-off speed, so you don't have to worry about the bike being unsafely fast. In addition, the Giant bikes are some of the lighter electric bikes, with the Suede E ranking as one of the lightest full-size electric bike on the market. The bike itself weighs 44 lbs, with an additional 12 lbs added by the battery. The battery locks into place on the frame with a key. To remove it, you simply unlock it and take it off. The battery can be charged on or off the bike.

With its diverse riding options, ability to climb hills and its unequalled range, the Suede-E electric bike has received nothing but positive feedback from electric bicycle owners and enthusiasts. The Suede E electric bike is extremely reliable, The Giant cycle company is well known for their product support.

Condition

In overall excellent condition except for the odd scuff here and there, but after all, it is a used bike and has been used  the battery charges up, and has had a refresh charge as per the manual instructions every 3 months,  Would mainly suit most people , but possibly it may not suit a very short person.

A Trade review/View

Giant's classic machine, is a superb bike. but it is tops in our book, and still a 5-star electric bike. The Suede E is a proper bicycle, with power-assistance. Designed by Giant's Dutch arm, this attractive machine looks like a Dutch roadster, and includes such features as a step-thru frame (or not if you prefer), lots of practical accessories, hub gears and quiet trouble-free Panasonic motor assist. At around 20 miles, range is better than average, and the battery is one of the smallest and lightest around, so if you can afford it, buy two. Efficiency is unsurpassed.
Problems ? After four years, the bikes themselves are proving extremely reliable, but there have been a few battery and charger faults. Giant had to withdrawn the original Panasonic charger, replacing it with a Metco unit while the problem was fixed, but the last machines were back to Panasonic - watch this if buying a bike. Developments for 2006 included a larger battery, retro fittable to all models and  range. We've heard that second hand prices are now rising fast, but we'd consider the Suede a good buy for anything under £900.

SPEC

26 inch wheels with Kevlar tyres for a virtually puncture free comfortable ride

Adjustable height centre post and double sprung padded seat.

Side facing wheel reflectors.

Secure key operated Battery Locking system.

Ni-MH 36 volt battery pack for long range between battery charges.

Easy battery charging with battery pack on or off machine.

Simple to operate battery charger included.

Efficient mudguards for good rider protection in inclement weather conditions.

Handlebar mounted battery power indicator.

Powerful 200w high efficiency long life low noise motor.

15 mph maximum speed (maximum allowed to comply with the law).

Up to 25 miles riding (depending on road conditions and rider weight etc) on one overnight charge costing only a few pence.

Peddal activated power delivery.

Front wheel drive for maximum stability.

People like to ride electric bikes because they:-

• Like to be green with Zero emissions they protect the environment
• Enjoy the feeling of riding a bicycle - except for hills and headwinds
• Prefer their local errands to be easy, slow paced and scenic
• Like to save money, meet new people, and protect the environment
• Look for extra chances to exercise - even if it’s just a little
• Still need convenient, point-to-point transportation after losing their driving privileges
• Advisability of taking part in environmental protection
• The possibility of realising important economies
• Want their own traffic "lane", convenient parking spots and shortcuts
• Considered a gas-powered moped or small motorcycle, but dislike the noise, smell, starting problems and special laws
• Environmental protection. The chance to arrive at work without perspiring!
• Deserve more fun and freedom in their lives.

• Any rider of 14 years or over, can safely take Eco Bike on all roads ( motorways excluded )

Recap of main Benefits

You’ll be free from Road Tax and MOT tests
You’ll be free from a Driving Licence, a driving test and costly lessons*
You’ll be free from the Congestion Charge.
You’ll be free from parking restrictions
You’ll be free from petrol bills
You’ll be free from the sweat of conventional cycling
You’ll be free from the grime and gear of conventional motorcycling*
You’ll be free to use bus lanes and cycle paths

FAQ’s

What is the range of an electric bike?
The range of a fully charged battery varies. It is usually between 15 to 20 miles with gentle pedalling, but can be up to 40 miles.
Most of the power is drained when moving off and on hills so pedalling at these points will preserve the power.
Distance up to 50km, but it varies with the weight and size of the rider and the terrain encountered:
Smooth, Clean, and Dry surfaces – Excellent Range
Rough Pavement, Gravel, and Packed Dirt – Reduced Range
Grass and Loose Dirt – Greatly Reduced Range.
Mud – Might as well walk.
Snow – Get off the bike, and go home.
If you have specific requirements it is best to talk to us and get some advice before spending your hard earned cash.

How fast will it go?
To gain exemption from road tax, road insurance, MOT tests, vehicle registration, the requirement of a driving license and wearing a motorcycle helmet the speed under power is restricted to 15 miles per hour. They can of course be pedalled beyond this speed. (although a helmet is recommended for safety reasons).
As batteries age, their performance decreases. (Actually, in the first 25 or so charge / discharge cycles, many batteries get better, and then start a gradual decline).
If the battery has been poorly treated – such as heavy use, the wrong charger, stored in a hot damp place, exposed to excessive cold, then the performance will suffer.

Do I need to pedal?
Strictly speaking when on the road the law requires you to pedal with the power assisting your pedalling in conjunction with the pedals. going up Hills slow you down so you need to pedal to maintain speed.

What are the running costs?
Other than charging the batteries at a cost of approximately 10 pence per full charge there are no other significant running costs. You should carry out basic maintenance as you would with a normal pedal cycle, however the electronic parts of the bikes are designed to be trouble and maintenance free.

Are there any UK laws I need to be aware of?
The UK law differs slightly from the EU law and hence there is some confusion but if you adhere to the following you should be acting within our current regulatory guidelines.
• Average continuous motor power output no more than 250 watts
• maximum speed under power 15 mph.
• must have functioning pedals.
• The use of a throttle is now allowed.
• Weight must not be more than 40 kg unless a tandem or tricycle.
• Riders age must be at least 14 years of age. (sorry kids, your time will come)
*NB* Laws can and do change without prior warning. These are accurate at the time of writing.