2019 Propella 2.2 Review

Video Review

Written Review

The Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike is a great budget buy urban commuter that is lightweight, stylish and flies under the radar.

Propella is a lifestyle electric bike company whose main goal is simply to get more people riding electric bikes. One of the ways they do that is by creating affordable electric bikes that not only perform well, but look great too. This one, the Propella 2.2 Single Speed, is a simple but elegant ride that does away with everything but the most necessary components, leaving behind a lightweight urban commuter reminiscent of a fixie.

Power — 250 nominal watts, 350 peak watts

The Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike has an efficient Bafang geared hub motor that puts out a modest 250 watts of nominal power and 350 peak watts of power. This motor is quite efficient and requires minimal power to operate, helping to extend the range compared to a more powerful motor. Even though it’s only 250 watts of nominal power, the Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike still feels pretty zippy thanks in part to its light curb weight. 

Speed  — 18 mph

The Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike has a top speed of 18 mph, which can be reached using the pedal assist, making this a class 1 electric bike. Class 1 electric bikes can be legally ridden in almost any area, which makes this a good choice for those who live in a city with strict electric bike laws.

Battery and Range — 36 volt 6.8 ah, 35 miles

The Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike runs on a 36 volt system and has a 6.8 ah battery for an estimated max range of 35 miles with pedal assist. The battery is located on the downtube which helps keep the bike well balanced. The shape of the battery looks like a water bottle at first glance which helps to keep this bike flying under the radar. It can also be removed for charging and stowing.

Pedal assist sensor — Cadence sensor

The Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike is equipped with a cadence sensor that measures the rotation of the cranks. Like most cadence sensors, there is some delay from the time the rider starts and stops pedaling to the time the motor activates and deactivates.

Display — King Meter, LCD

The Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike uses a King Meter LCD display located on the middle of the handlebars with an independent button pad on the left side of the handlebars. This display has most of the necessary electronic feedback including speed, battery level and distance.

Frame and weight — 6061 Aluminum alloy, 37 pounds

The Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike has one frame size and weighs in at nearly 37 pounds, making this an extremely lightweight and agile electric bike. 

Suspension —  Solid forks

The Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike has solid forks and no suspension, but an aftermarket seat post suspension can be easily added for those riders who want a little more shock absorption.

Gearing — Single speed

The Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike uses a chain driven single speed, but there is the option to purchase a 7-speed version as well for those who want more flexibility when climbing hills. 

Brakes — Shimano, mechanical disc

The Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike has Shimano mechanical disc brakes in with a 160 mm rotors, giving this bike plenty of stopping power. The brake levers also have motor inhibitors built in, which instantly cut power to the motor whenever the brake levers are depressed.

Warranty — 1 year comprehensive, lifetime frame

The Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike has a 1 year comprehensive warranty that covers everything.

Price — Starting at $999

Starting at $999 the Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike is incredibly affordable compared to most electric bikes, but still retains a great deal of value, including an efficient Bafang motor, locking removable battery, motor inhibitors and a clean display.

Who’s it for —Urban commuters on a budget

This feels like a good choice for those on a budget looking for an easy to operate electric bikes that doesn’t scream “electric bike.” The Propella 2.2 Single Speed electric bike is definitely stealthy in the sense that at first glance it appears to be an analogue bicycle. This is also a good choice for those who have minimal hills in their area and especially for those who have shorter commutes. Though the Propella 2.2 can of course go on extended treks, the single speed and rigid forks might make for an uncomfortable ride after several hours. Still, as far as affordable electric bikes go, this is definitely on the top of the list for value.