Ride1Up Turris XR Review

Ride1Up builds a bevy of cool, purpose-built e-bikes, including the Comfort-focused Turris XR reviewed here. Like other Ride1Up models, this bike features an e-specific design that includes a frame-integrated 614 Wh battery for a smooth appearance.

The design prioritizes comfort and value over weight and performance. Powered by a 750W motor, it is able to reach Class 3 speeds of up to 28 mph with pedal assist.

The upright, hybrid riding position is relaxing and ideal for taking in the scenery. The ride quality isn't quite as smooth as the Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser, but it feels more capable thanks to larger wheels and all-terrain tires. Fenders, ergonomic grips, and a gel saddle make it feel comfortable and add value to the bike. The frame is offered in two forms, ST (step-through) and XR (step-over), as well as three colors. The ST model uses a handlebar with more back sweep that we find even more comfortable for cruising on bike trails and pathways but is less ideal off-road.

Performance Comparison

Ride

Considering its design and style, it's no surprise the Turris provides a posh and comfortable ride. The positioning is upright with very little pressure on the hands, while the suspension fork and larger wheels insulate the rider from the nuances of the road. The handling is predictable with slow steering, and the gel saddle sits over the top of the pedals, enabling good power transfer and good posture. Overall, the package is well executed, creating a bike that is a pleasure to cruise bike paths and take in the scenery.

While the knobby tires and suspension fork are reminiscent of a mountain bike, the Turris is not. These features dampen vibrations and increase comfort but do little to add traction in an off-road setting. Whether a dirt path or a gravel road, the 2.4" Kenda Booster tires are up for the task and enhance versatility. We loved the purpose-built Ride1Up Core5, and the Turris is a more comfortable and capable version of that bike. The 100mm suspension fork and knobby tires add comfort and confidence, like driving around town in a crossover instead of a sedan. It may not have radically enhanced capabilities, but it's more comfortable and provides a better view. While nothing on the Turris felt exceptionally high quality, nothing felt bad or distracted from the ride quality.

Like many other hybrid bikes, the Turris has a relaxed yet upright seated position conducive to cruising. The 50mm rise handlebar brings the ergonomically shaped grips closer to the body, so you're not bending forward as you might on other bikes. The downside to having less weight on your hands is that it's now resting primarily on the seat. We found the KNUS Ergo Gel Mtb Saddle to be a comfy and appropriate spec for this bike that most people will likely appreciate. Those new to cycling or spending less time on a bike seat might opt for something with more width and padding.

The Turris is available in two different frame styles, the XR and ST. The XR (step-over) version we tested has a step-over height of 29" inches, which might be difficult for some people to get on and off. The ST (step-through) version of this bike has a 23" top tube, which makes egress significantly easier; it's likely the model we would recommend for most people. Gone are the days when step-through style bikes are reserved for women in long skirts; if it's safer and more comfortable to get on and off, there's little reason to opt for a high top tube. Ride1Up claims this bike can fit users within a range of heights from 5'1" to 6'2", making it viable for most adult riders.

The parts package on the Turris is appropriate for the price. The Zoom hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors were smooth and effective, even from the 28mph top speed. The Shimano Acera 7-speed drivetrain also performed respectably, although we didn't love the top-mount, push-button shifter. We find bringing your thumb above the bar to shift less ergonomic than a trigger shifter but we also find e-bikes require less frequent shifting due to the powered assist.

Range

While not a class leader in our range test, the Turris is up for a full day of riding. Utilizing a 614 Wh battery housed inside the frame's downtube, it has a clean look and a low center of gravity. The range of this bike makes it well-suited for weekend warriors and bike path explorers.

Our range testing is performed using the same course, same weight rider, and only the throttle to eliminate the variable of pedaling input. To test the range, we use a course featuring gentle elevation changes and a diverse array of surface conditions that help us rank and score the bike's ride quality. With a fully charged battery, we rode the Turris for 22.1 miles with 1,232 feet of elevation gain/loss at an average speed of 15.2 mph using the throttle only. While falling a bit short of our top performers in this metric, it's still an impressive distance to travel without pedaling. The bike would obviously travel much further using pedal assist; how much further would depend on the assist level and rider's pedaling input. We're confident that with minimal input and fewer hills, this bike would meet or exceed Ride1Up's claimed 25-mile minimum range.

Power

The 750W Shengyi motor delivers enough pedal assist support and does not slouch while utilizing only throttle power. There's enough power to start the bike and rider from a complete stop, even on an incline. This Class 3 bike easily reached its top throttle speed of 20 mph and top pedal-assisted speed of 28 mph. The bike is most at home below 20 mph, but it didn't frighten us at higher speeds. Controlling the throttle is done with a thumb paddle on the handlebar's left side, near the handle grip. The bike starts by depressing the paddle with your thumb; no other motion is required. In our timed testing to determine acceleration speed, the Turris reached its top throttle-assisted speeds in 8.4 seconds. On our testing hill, the Turris accelerated up to 16.1 mph and slowed to only 14 mph on the steepest part of the hill. During extended throttle-only testing, we found the bike to have less than average hill power, but it never gave up, sometimes taking deep cuts from the battery range estimate. The 15.2 mph average speed during our range test included approximately 1,232 feet of vertical gain, proving that the bike is up for exploration.

The five different levels of pedal assistance give the rider a range of support for their pedaling efforts. The amount of support increases as you toggle through the levels, with level one feeling barely noticeable and level five feeling like a strong gale tailwind. A cadence sensor determines assistance on this model, so the amount of power added is based on how fast the cranks are turning. The Turris adds the same amount of power regardless of how hard you pedal, which can feel unnatural at times, especially in higher assist modes and low gears. That said, the geared hub motor provides a consistent increase in power but feels like it operates smoother in harder gears (the same goes for most bikes with a rear hub motor). Switching between levels is seamless, with a noticeable increase in power as the pedal assist (PAS) numbers increase.

Interface

The all-in-one control/display unit is located on the left side of the handlebar atop the throttle lever. The current speed, state of charge, and PAS mode are featured prominently, while distance, battery level, average speed, max speed, and time are all available by toggling through screens.

Ride1Up chose an all-in-one unit with the button controls and display combined next to the left grip, as opposed to many bikes that have separate controls and displays. While we prefer having the display located centrally on the handlebar for easier sight while riding, the combination unit's simplicity is appealing. The three buttons are conveniently situated on the left side, closest to the thumb, and are easily accessible. The power button in the center turns on and off the bike, while the + and - buttons cycle between pedal assist support settings. Holding down the plus button enables the headlight while holding down the minus button enables walk mode, in which the bike powers itself. It's a handy function if you choose to walk up a steep hill without having to push the full weight of the bike.

The integrated battery slides into a wide notch on the underside of the downtube and is secured with the provided keys. It's simple to remove and can be charged on or off the bike via a port on the side of the battery. It has an IP-65 weather resistance certification, which means it is dust and water-resistant, although extended exposure to rain should be avoided.

Assembly

The effort required to assemble the Turris was about average for consumer-direct electric bikes, and it was maybe a little easier than other Ride1Up models we've tested. Using the directions and provided tools, we built the bike in just under an hour. One of the most difficult aspects of assembling this bike, and many other e-bikes, is simply removing them from the box. Most people should be able to assemble this bike at home, but if you are unsure or don't feel mechanically inclined, we recommend taking it to a local bike shop.

Once the bike is unboxed and unpackaged, final assembly isn't difficult. Using the included Allen keys and printed instructions (plus a Ride1Up beanie), you follow the instructions to mount the handlebar, front wheel, front fender, headlight, and pedals. Once assembled, the bike will need to be adjusted to your size and comfort needs. The tire pressure should be adjusted, and the battery should be charged. No aspect of the build was particularly difficult, but it required a little time to finish.

Should You Buy the Ride1Up Turris?

If you're looking for a reasonably priced e-bike for commuting, exploring bike paths, or just fun and prefer an upright comfort position, the Turris is an excellent option to consider. With its relaxed ride quality, adventure-ready tires, and plenty of range, the Turris can take you places a normal bike might not be able to. We'd recommend most people opt for the step-through version of this bike as it makes getting on and off much easier. Given its price, comfort, and capabilities, we also feel that its a fantastic value.

What Other Electric Commuter Bikes Should You Consider?

If the upright hybrid style of the Turris isn't for you, check out the sportier Ride1Up 700-Series, our top recommendation for an all-around electric commuter. It has a slightly nicer spec and higher performance. If you'd like to go the other direction, the Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser is a super relaxed beach-style bike that we found incredibly comfortable and quite compelling.