WIRED tests Velotric Nomad 2: heavy comfort meets limited range in fat-tire ebike review
A 75-pound step-through model with 4-inch tires offers exceptional stability and a 505-pound weight limit, though tested range falls short of manufacturer claims.
WIRED has published a detailed review of the Velotric Nomad 2, a newly updated step-through electric bike designed for comfort and versatility across varied terrains. The publication notes that the model features massive 4-inch Kenda fat tires, 100-millimetre front suspension, and a seat described as being as wide as a couch. Powered by a 750-watt motor, the bike is engineered to handle pavement, gravel, and dirt paths with significant stability, although the reviewer cautions that its bulk may feel unwieldy on winding pathways.
The review highlights the bike’s substantial build, which weighs 75 pounds, making it significantly heavier than many other electric bikes tested by the publication. This weight contributes to a sturdy frame and high load capacity, with a stated on-bike weight limit of 505 pounds. Velotric also advertises a towing capacity of 1,000 pounds, though the reviewer noted this specific claim was not tested during the evaluation period. The bike’s heft is a double-edged sword, offering durability but making it difficult to pedal manually if the battery depletes.
Assembly is reported to take approximately 30 minutes, with components arriving in well-labeled, padded packaging that simplifies the setup process. The bike comes equipped with a 3.5-inch full-colour display, a 500-lumen front light, and an IPX7-rated waterproof battery housing. The reviewer, who tested the bike from early April in southwest Montana, found the electronics intuitive and the hydraulic disc brakes responsive, even at higher speeds.
Performance testing revealed that the Nomad 2 can reach Class 3 speeds of 28 mph with pedal assist once settings are adjusted, though it defaults to Class 2 limits of 20 mph. The tested battery range reached approximately 47 miles with pedal assist and 37 miles on throttle. These figures fall short of Velotric’s advertised claims of 65 miles and 45 miles respectively, a discrepancy the reviewer attributed to riding on hills and bumpy surfaces.
For consumers seeking similar specifications with enhanced components, the review mentions a variant called the Nomad 2x. This model features upgraded 120-millimetre front suspension, rear suspension, and an advertised maximum battery range of 75 miles. The original Nomad 2 remains positioned in the low- to mid-price range for full-size electric bikes, offering a robust option for riders prioritising comfort and high weight capacity over lightweight agility.
