Review: Retrospec Joe Rev 2

The entry-level Joe Rev was created in this same spirit—a full-sized, BMX-inspired frame with fun color options (electric blue, matte gray), 3-inch tan wall balloon tires, and those unmistakable handlebars. There are no apps or fancy readouts, no lights, and no shocks. Just five levels of pedal assist and a throttle attached to a single-speed drivetrain and 750-watt rear-hub motor.

“No cream, no sugar” is even printed on the chain stays, lest one forget the minimalist doctrine. On the plus side, this lack of bones allows the Joe Rev 2 to weigh in on the lighter side at 56 pounds.

This is the second iteration of the original Joe Rev, which is still available (for now) at the sale price of $1,200. The Rev 2 sports a bigger 500 Wh battery with a listed 60-mile range (up from 48 miles) and an updated display. Namely, a 2-by-2.5-inch LCD screen on the left handlebar displaying power level, battery life, and speed, as opposed to the original’s bare-basic hub with buttons.

The battery can be quickly locked and unlocked from the bottom of the frame with a key and charges from red to full green in several hours; it weighs about 7 pounds, so it’s easy enough to carry in a backpack, though at 18 inches long, it could be a tight fit if your bag is already packed.

Photograph: Kat Merck

Photograph: Kat Merck

Teen Spirit

At one point during the testing period, my almost-14-year-old son, who is 5’ 10” and 145 pounds, took the Joe Rev 2 out on a full battery to see how long he could ride in our town of hills. We were all surprised to find he hit the red “recharge” light in about 20 miles. It shouldn’t have been too much of a shock, given that the hills were steep, and he was using the throttle primarily. But it is a good reminder that, like all ebikes, the Joe Rev 2’s range will vary dramatically depending on rider weight, speed, and conditions.

Interestingly, there’s an ominous warning sticker on the Joe Rev’s frame that states no one under 16 is to ride this bike. It does have pedals and a maximum speed of 20 mph, making it a Class 2 ebike—legal in many, if not, most states for kids under 16.