• Home
  • SUBSCRIBE!
  • Garmin Edge Bike Computers
    • Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared
      • Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus: What’s the Difference?
      • ALL GARMIN EDGE BIKE COMPUTERS COMPARED: 130 Plus vs Explore vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus
      • Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus vs 830 vs 530 Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, Reviews and Videos
      • Garmin Edge 530 vs 830: What’s the Difference?
      • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs Garmin Edge 1030. What’s the Difference?
      • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs. 130 Plus – Premium vs. Budget Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge 830 vs 820: What’s the Difference?
    • Which is the Best Garmin Edge Bike Computer?
      • Which Garmin Edge Bike Computer has the Longest Battery Life?
      • Which Garmin Edge Bike Computer is Best for Mountain Biking?
    • Are Garmin Edge Bike Computers Worth It?
    • Garmin Edge vs. Wahoo Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge 530 vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
      • Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt: Which is Better?
      • Garmin Edge 520 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT
    • 9 Great Upgrades to the Garmin Edge 530
    • 9 New Features in the Garmin Edge 830
    • The New Garmin Enduro Smart Watch – a Good Choice for Cyclists?
  • About
    • Start Here!
    • Contact Us
  • Product Reviews
    • 7 Great Budget Bikes You Can Buy on Amazon in 2023
    • 7 of the Best Budget E-bikes under $1000 for 2023
    • Bike Computer Reviews
      • 7 of the Best Budget Bike Computers for 2023
      • All Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared: Edge 130 Plus vs Explore 2 vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus vs 1040
      • Best Cheap Bike Computers Under $65 – Includes Budget Wireless Computers
      • Best Bike Computers – Includes CatEye, Garmin, and Wireless Bike Computers
      • Quick Links to our Best Posts about Bike Computers
    • Cycling Gear Reviews
      • How to Choose the Best Cycling Balaclava
        • 7 of the Best Cycling Balaclavas to Keep Your Head Warm this Winter
      • 7 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Jackets for Men and Women
        • 7 of the Best Women’s Cycling Jackets – Waterproof and Windproof
        • The Three Different Kinds of Cycling Jackets
        • Showers Pass Elite 2.1 Waterproof Cycling Jacket Review
        • Best Cheap Cycling Jackets under $100
        • Best Windproof Cycling Jackets
      • 7 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Pants for Men and Women
        • Showers Pass Rogue Cycling Pants – Review by Mrs. Average Joe Cyclist
        • 3 Regular-Looking Pants that Work Well as Cycling Pants
      • Best Waterproof Cycling Gear for Men and Women
      • 7 of the Best Cycling Jerseys
        • Two of the Best Women’s Cycling Jerseys: Pearl Izumi and Sugoi
      • 7 of the Best Dog Bike Baskets and Dog Carriers
      • Adidas Cycling Glasses – Review after Eight Years of Use
      • The New Garmin Enduro Smart Watch – Is it a Good Choice for Cyclists?
    • Garmin Edge and Wahoo Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared: Versus Posts!
        • ALL GARMIN EDGE BIKE COMPUTERS COMPARED: 130 Plus vs Explore vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus
      • Garmin Edge vs. Wahoo Bike Computers
        • Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt vs. Garmin Edge 130 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, with Videos
        • Garmin Edge 520 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT
      • Garmin Varia Vision and Varia Rear Light Radar
      • How to Upload Your Bike Rides to Strava While Garmin Connect is Down
    • Bike Pannier Reviews
      • 7 of the Best Waterproof Bike Panniers
      • Review of the Two Wheel Gear Convertible Pannier/Backpack
      • Best Waterproof Bike Panniers for Touring and Commuting: Ortlieb Bike Panniers
      • Two Wheel Gear Classic 3.0 Garment Pannier for Bike Commuters – Review by Mrs. Average Joe Cyclist
      • Best Commuter/Bike Touring Panniers: Two Wheel Gear Classic 3.0 Garment Pannier Review
    • Bike Light Reviews
      • Complete Guide to Bike Lights
        • Best Budget Bright Bike Headlight – Lumintrail Review
        • Best Bike Light under $40 – Serfas Thunderbolt Tail Light Review
        • 7 of the Best Bike Lights for Night Riding and Commuting in 2023
        • Reelight Rl721 Bike Lights Review – Lights that are ALWAYS on
        • How to Choose the Best Bike Light
      • When to Use Flashing Bike Lights
      • Quick Links to Our Best Posts about Bike Lights
    • Bike Saddle Reviews
      • 9 of the Best Road Bike Saddles for 2023
      • How to Choose the Right Bike Saddle
      • Zacro Gel Seat Cover – a Budget Solution for Saddle Discomfort
    • Headphone Reviews
      • Best Headphones for Safe Cycling
      • Aftershokz XTrainerZ Headphones – Open-Ear, Bone Conduction, Safe Headphones for Cycling AND Swimming
      • Review – AfterShokz Trekz Cordless Open Ear Bone Conduction Headphones for Safe Cycling
      • Jaybird Tarah Wireless Headphones Review
    • 7 Reasons to Use a Power Meter on Your Bike
  • Bike Computer Reviews
    • Best Cheap Bike Computers Under $65 – Includes Budget Wireless Computers
    • Garmin Edge Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared
        • ALL GARMIN EDGE BIKE COMPUTERS COMPARED: 130 Plus vs Explore vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus
        • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs Garmin Edge 1030. What’s the Difference?
      • Garmin Edge vs. Wahoo Bike Computers
        • Garmin Edge 530 vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
        • Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt vs Garmin Edge 130 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, with Videos
        • Garmin Edge 520 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT
        • Garmin Edge 520 vs. Wahoo ELEMNT
    • 7 of the Best Budget Bike Computers for 2023
    • Quick Links to our Best Posts about Bike Computers
    • Best Bike Computers – Includes CatEye, Garmin, and Wireless Bike Computers
    • 9 Great Upgrades to the Garmin Edge 530 – Garmin’s Game-Changing GPS Bike Computer
  • Health Benefits
    • Cycling Weight Loss
      • A Guide for Fat Cyclists
      • How Cycling Can Help You to Lose Weight
      • The Top 10 Ride Your Way Lean Eating Rules, for Effective Weight Loss
      • 7 Steps to Lose Weight Cycling
      • How Many Calories Do You Burn Cycling?
      • How Many Calories Can You Burn Riding an Ebike?
      • Top 10 Tips to Lose Weight Cycling
      • Our Best Lose Weight with Cycling Posts
      • Intermittent Fasting, Cycling, HIIT, and Weight Loss
    • Cycling and Aging
      • Science Shows HIIT on a Bike is the Best Exercise to Fight Aging – And We Show You How to Do it!
      • 5 Great Reasons to Take Up Cycling During Retirement
      • Science Says Exercise is a Miracle Cure and Protects You from Diseases
      • Science Proves Cycling Can Help You to Stay Strong as You Age
      • Science Shows that Cycling Really Does Fight Aging
      • 7 Tips to Help You Keep Mountain Biking after Age 40
      • Case Studies: Three Seniors who Regained their Health with E-Bikes
    • Cycling Knee Pain
      • 5 Doctor’s Tips to Start Cycling Again after Knee Replacement Surgery
      • Video: 3 Exercises for Cycling Knee Pain
      • 7 Ways to Prevent Cycling Knee Pain
      • How to Cure Cycling Knee Pain with a Miraculous, Cheap Cure
    • Cycling and Strength
      • Top 7 Strength Building Exercises for Cyclists
      • 5 Great Strength Exercises for Cyclists
      • Science Says Cycling Can Help You to Stay Strong as You Age
      • How Strength Training Can Boost Your Cycling Speed and Quality of Life
    • Cycling and Sleep
      • How Cycling Helps You to Sleep Better and Get Healthier
      • One in Three Cyclists Experience Reduced Stress Levels
      • Why Cycling May Be the Sleep Aid You Need
      • How I Became a Bike Commuter and Shed Stress Immediately
    • Cycling and Brain Health
      • Science Shows Five Ways that Cycling Boosts Your Brain Function
      • Research shows that cycling makes your brain grow
    • Kids biking
      • 7 Easy Steps to Teach a Child to Ride a Bike
      • 7 of the Best Baby and Child Bike Seats to Keep Your Child Safe – Reviews and Videos
      • 7 Tips for Parents to Keep your Kids Safe on their Bikes
      • How to Transport Kids on Bikes (Video and Infographic)
      • Babies and Bikes: How to Get Kids Active from the Start
      • How to Encourage Kids to Ride Bikes
        • How to Help your Kids Bike to School
A Blog for Average People who LOVE to ride bikes!

Average Joe Cyclist

A Blog for Average People who LOVE to ride bikes!

  • Cycling Training Plans
    • Our Most Successful Cycling Training Plans
    • How to Get Bike Fit: Complete Bike Training Plan
    • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner Cyclist Training Plan: Phase 1
    • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner Cyclist Training Plan: Phase 2 – Interval Training
    • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner Cyclist Training Plan: Phase 3 – Preparing for Your First Race
    • 7 Reasons to do High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on Your Bike – and How to Do It
    • Top 7 Strength Building Exercises for Cyclists
    • Science Shows HIIT on a Bike is the Best Exercise to Fight Aging – And We Show You How to Do it!
    • Workouts and Stretching for Cyclists
      • Complete Guide to Stretching for Cyclists
      • Stop Doing Crunches! 10 Minute Complete Core Workout for Cyclists
      • Updated Video: 3 Hip Stretches to Cure Cycling Hip Pain
      • 5 Benefits of Cross Training for Cyclists
    • How to Protect Your Testosterone Levels from Over-Training
    • Research shows Amazing Benefits of Sprint Intervals in Cycling
  • Indoor Cycling Training
    • 7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers
    • 5 of the Best Smart Indoor Trainers for Effective Indoor Training
    • How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Training System on Any Budget
    • Guide to Smart Turbo Indoor Trainers
    • How to Get Started with Stationary Biking: A Guide to Stationary Bikes
  • Cycling with Dogs
    • 7 of the Best Dog Bike Baskets and Dog Carriers
    • How to Train Your Dog to Safely Run Next to You When You Are Cycling
    • Complete Guide to Taking Your Dog on Bike Rides in a Bike Basket
    • 6 Steps to Gently Train Your Dog to Go On Bike Rides With You
  • Lose Weight!
    • Cycling and Weight Loss
      • 7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers for 2023
      • 5 Quick and Easy Tips to Lose Weight Cycling
    • Our Best Lose Weight with Cycling Posts
    • Cycling Nutrition
      • Best Matcha Tea for Cyclists: My Matcha Life
        • How to Make Matcha Tea
      • How Protein Helps your Post Bike Ride Recovery
      • 5 Best Protein Supplements for Exercise Recovery and Health
    • Cycling Training Plans
      • How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Training System on Any Budget
      • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner’s Bike Training Plan
    • Cycling and Health
  • Tips & How-Tos
    • How to Prevent & Cure Cycling Knee Pain
      • Video: 3 Exercises for Cycling Knee Pain
      • 5 Doctor’s Tips to Start Cycling Again after Knee Replacement Surgery
    • How to Change Gears on a Bike – Beginner’s Guide
    • Bike maintenance
      • How to Fix a Flat Bike Tire
      • How to Get Your Bike Ready for Safe Winter Cycling
    • Top 10 Tips to Keep your Bike from being Stolen
    • Smart Phone vs a Bike Computer for Recording Bike Rides – Which is Better?
    • How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Training System on Any Budget
    • Do You Need a Cycling Jersey?
    • Complete Guide to How to Buy and Sell Bikes on Craigslist
      • How to Buy Used Bikes on Craigslist (and Other Online Marketplaces)
    • How to Understand Bike Terminology
    • 5 Things You Need to Know about Hydration for Cyclists
      • Hydration for Cycling – How Much Fluid do You Need?
  • Bike Commuting
    • Bike Commuting Tips
      • Top 10 Tips on How to Avoid a Sore Butt from Cycling
      • How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Saddle Soreness and Associated Issues
      • How to Choose the Best Bike Light
      • The 7 Biggest Mistakes People Make When They Try to Start Bike Commuting
      • 7 Tips for Going Car-Free
      • Can Cycling Cause Penis Numbness, Erectile Dysfunction, and Prostate Cancer?
      • Best Bike Light under $40 – Serfas Thunderbolt Tail Light Review
      • 5 Ways to Stay Visible in Traffic When Cycling
      • The 7 Biggest Mistakes People Make When They Try to Start Bike Commuting
      • 7 Helpful Tips for New Bike Commuters – Don’t Start Bike Commuting Until You Read This!
    • Winter Cycling
      • Safe Winter Cycling – How to Cycle Safely in the Winter
      • How to Dress for Winter Cycling – Cycling Clothes that will Keep You Warm and Dry
      • Our Top Tips to Keep You Warm and Dry for Fall and Winter Cycling
      • How to Get Your Bike Ready for Safe Winter Cycling
      • Quick Links to Our Best Posts about Cold Weather Cycling
    • Safety for Cyclists
      • Top 10 Tips to Not Get Hit by a Car on Your Bike
      • When to Use Flashing Bike Lights
      • 7 of the Best Bike Lights for Night Riding and Commuting
      • Aftershokz XTrainerZ Headphones – Open-Ear, Bone Conduction, Safe Headphones for Cycling AND Swimming
      • Best Budget Bright Bike Headlight – Lumintrail Review
    • Benefits of Being a Bike Commuter
      • Survey Shows London Bike Commuters are Happier and More Productive
      • What Is the Function of Myelin in the Body?
      • Research shows that cycling makes your brain grow
    • Bike Maintenance
      • How to Get Your Bike Ready for Safe Winter Cycling
      • How To Clean Your Bike Chain the Easy Way
      • How to Fix a Flat Bike Tire
      • Inspirational Video: How to Fix a Bike Flat – with No Hands
    • Cycling Infrastructure
      • 3 Reasons Why We Need Separated Bike Lanes
      • Research reveals a surprising benefit of separated bike lanes
      • Montreal Cycling, Part 3: Separated Bike Lanes – What Other Cities can Learn from Montreal
      • Cycling and the Post-Covid Transformation
You are here: Home / Cycling Reviews / Average Joe Cyclist Bike Reviews / BionX PL-350 Electric Bike System – An Average Joe Cyclist Product Review

BionX PL-350 Electric Bike System – An Average Joe Cyclist Product Review

September 19, 2010 by Average Joe Cyclist

Pin
Share
Tweet

Avatarwp-user-avatar wp-user-avatar-96 photo

BionX PL-350 – an Awesome Electric Bike System

The BionX PL-350 is a perfect kit for anyone who is challenged in their biking. The BionX PL-350 kit offers a way to keep on cycling, and that’s a beautiful thing. You can buy a BionX system here from Amazon.

See my new Electric Bikes Blog – includes technical advice, bike reviews, controversial issues, and health benefits of electric bikes.

ALL ABOUT ELECTRIC BIKES - TECHNICAL ADVICE AND REVIEWS
How to Buy the Best Electric Bike
How to buy the best ebike
BionX Electric Bike Kit Review
x Bionx kit
How to Figure out Electric Bike Range
Electric bike range
Hub Motor or Crank Drive Motor?
Types of motors.indexed
Haibike Xduro Trekking Pro 2015 Review
Haibike-Xduro-Trekking-Pro_0083(1)
Types of Electric Bike Motors
ebike engine
What Size Motor Should You Buy?
What size motor
Shocke Electric Bike
Beats Car!

bike beats car
How Many Calories do You Burn on an Electric Bike?
burn calories on electric bike
How to Choose the Right Battery
Battery-Rear-Rack1
Why do Some Cyclists HATE Electric Bikes?
Why do some cyclists Hate electric bikes
Pedal Easy –
Made in Canada

Pedal-easy(1)
14 Reasons to Get an Electric Bike
14 Reasons to Get an Electric Bike
BH Emotion Neo City Review
Neo City at Stanley Park
Emotion BH Race Bike
Review

bh-panasonic(1)
Rave Review from Turbo Bob!
turbo-bob
I'm not cycling,
I'm COMMUTING!

Nick-Switzer-with-family-and-electric-bikes-table(1)
Sunahme - Powerful
Canadian Electric Bikes

Sunahme - Powerful Canadian Electric Bikes
Emotion Street 650
Review

emotion-street-650-smaller.indexed.indexed
Electric bikes
make you cycle further!

electric bikes make people cycle further table(1)
Pedal Easy Electric Bikes
pedal-easy-bikes-copy1(1)
Heart Attack Survivor cycles on ebike!
pedal-easy-ron-wenzel-table

Click here for an in-depth totally updated BionX Electric Bike Kit review.

BionX PL-350Remember how we all wanted to be superheroes when we were kids? Well, five years ago when I first used a BionX  electric bike system, it was like all those childhood dreams of being a superhero had finally come true. Even though it was just a bottom-of-the-range PL-250 BionX electric bike, my legs were suddenly bionic, and I could fly up hills with the greatest of ease. I went instantly from lagging behind, or not biking at all (I had been having some health problems) to metaphorically flying along, even overtaking younger people on uphills.

Deciding which electric bike is the best electric bike for YOU is difficult. I have written a book about how to choose the best electric bike for you. The book includes reviews of many of the best electric bikes on the market today. Click here to find out more about this book.

My Secret Superpower

The cool thing is that as the BionX electric bike system is so silent, people often don’t even realize you have an assist. Especially  as the engine is  hidden in the back wheel, so that, as you can see in this photo, the fact that you have an assist is not blatantly obvious.

All Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared with Chart and Videos
Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs Garmin Edge Explore vs Garmin Edge 530 vs Garmin Edge 830 vs Garmin Edge 1030 Plus
BionX PL-350
My Devinci Copenhagen with Bionx PL-350 kit

Sure, I had a secret, unfair advantage – but so do ALL superheroes. Comes with the territory – trust me, I know my superheroes.

Two years ago saw new challenges, when a different health issue reared its ugly head, AND my commute changed to include a MASSIVE hill. My doctor approved the commute provided I had all the help I could get. So I upgraded to the PL-350 BionX electric bike kit, which has a much higher torque, and much more power.

BionX bills the BionX 350 electric bike as “the best in class for climbing, long rides and fast accelerations” – and that’s absolutely true. Yet it is even more silent than the BionX 250 electric bike, so that I can still keep my superpower secret from many as I zoom up hills.

BionX Electric Bikes – a Truly Great System

BionX PL-350Bottom line is that the BionX PL-350 electric bike kit is a GREAT system. You basically just retrofit your existing bike with a new back wheel (which has the motor built in), a large battery, and a console to control it all. (Well, in my case, I paid a bike shop to retrofit it.)

You still have the great feel of regular biking (although the bike is a lot heavier). And you can cycle without assist whenever you want, such as on flats (although in reality I almost never do that, because I love the extra speed I can get with the engine).

You can also choose from a huge variety of bikes that are already fitted with an integrated BionX engine – including Trek, Norco, Matra and Wheeler.

Advantages of Having a BionX PL-350 Electric Bike Kit

Make no mistake, I am still pedaling, and building up a sweat – I just go a WHOLE lot faster than I would without the BionX PL-350 electric bike. So the system is helping me build up my fitness, health and strength, and this is really apparent when I ride my regular bike on the weekend. I am now overtaking MUCH younger cyclists without an assist!

Also – and this is perhaps the greatest advantage – I bike much more often than I would if I did not have the BionX PL-350 electric bike kit. I really don’t think I could face that huge hill twice a day, every day, without the BionX electric bike – it would just be too daunting. But with the BionX PL-350 electric bike, it’s fun. Plus on the BionX PL-350 electric bike I can be at work in 35 minutes, as opposed to an hour or more on the bus.

Another advantage is that after the initial really large outlay, it’s very, very cheap to run. The electricity it takes to charge is so minor I cannot even detect in on my electricity bill.

I have written more about why I love commuting with my BionX PL-350 electric bike here.

BionX PL-350Problems and After Sales Service

In five years and with two different BionX electric bikes, I have had very few problems. The worst was when the back axle on the BionX PL-350 electric bike broke. Completely. In half. The system was then two years old.

On the negative side, it took about three weeks to get it fixed, as the whole wheel had to be shipped back to Montreal. But on the VERY plus side, it was all done under warranty, no questions asked – I did not even have to produce my purchase receipt. So I would say this is a company that definitely stands by its products. You can read all about the great after sales service I got in this post.

Bottom Line on the BionX PL-350 electric bike kit

I have ridden this bike non-stop through two rainy Vancouver winters, and even once got caught in snow. When that happened the BionX electric bike saved me, because my gears starting slipping so much I could hardly move, but the BionX PL-350 electric bike kept right on going like it was nothing (it was born in Montreal, after all).

Similarly, the PL-250 electric bike has not given me a single problem in five years. Oh, and the battery is still going strong after all this time. I use it as my back-up commuter now.

I would  unreservedly recommend the BionX PL-350 to anyone who is challenged in their biking by either very long distances, very steep terrain, or any kind of health issues.  It’s a way to keep on biking, and that’s a beautiful thing. You can buy the latest, greatest version of this kit here on Amazon.

If you enjoyed this post, you might also enjoy my post “Five Reasons to Get a BionX Electric Bike Kit”.

Did you like this post or find it useful? If so, please support our blog:

We spend a lot of time writing these posts, and we would appreciate it very much if you would SHARE it with others (using the Share buttons) or LIKE our Facebook page. If you really want to show your appreciation, please consider clicking on one of the Amazon links before buying from Amazon; or clicking on any of the other affiliate links on this page. Small commissions help pay for our time. Or BEST OF ALL – just SUBSCRIBE to our blog. It makes you part of our community, and gets you free weekly updates about our posts – as well as a Free Download of our Bike Buyer’s Guide. Thanks in advance – reader support keeps us going and makes it all worthwhile!

Related

Pin
Share
Tweet

Filed Under: Average Joe Cyclist Bike Reviews, Average Joe Cyclist Electric Bike Reviews, Average Joe Cyclist Product Reviews, Electric Bikes Blog Tagged With: BionX 350, BionX!

Comments

  1. Tom Childs says

    September 20, 2010 at 10:06 pm

    Nice review.

    I have a quite similar experience with BionX. Have had 2 near fatal heart attacks which got repaired with a couple titanium spring loaded tubes in my coronary artery. After the first heart stopper decided to fit out a Norco Rideau w/the PL250. Loved it ever so much on the hills of Vancouver! Then after a couple years decided to to ditch a 1979 Chev van to the BC Scrapit program and it rendered a new Dahon Matrix full sized (26″wheel) folding bike. I immediately fitted it out with the BionX PL350. Have kept the Norco so I have a 2nd e-bike for reserve and gets my 30 year old daughter and I out together riding too.

    I’m going on 7 years with e-assist thru jvbike.com in Vancouver. JV is a great bike shop for service and likewise the BionX people in Quebec make really smart e-assist systems! I hope they go public someday as they will be a great investment!

    Cheers
    tom

    • Avatar photoJoeAverage says

      September 20, 2010 at 10:14 pm

      Thanks Tom. Coincidentally, I got my Copenhagen by scrapping my 1995 Pontiac Transport through the BC Scrapit program – got $1,200, as I recall, which paid for the Copenhagen, and then paid for the PL-350 myself. What a great program that is! The interesting thing was that after scrapping my car, I had such a huge feeling of relief. I realized for the first time what a stressor it is to have a car – every time it makes a funny noise you wonder if you’re going to have to fork out another few hundred dollars to keep it running – and for what? So it can keep making you more unhealthy! When the brakes go on my bike, it usually costs just a few dollars to fix – and sometimes I can fix it myself!
      I have said for a few years that if I had money to invest, I would invest in e-bikes – it’s the wave of the future, especially with all the ageing baby boomers (like me) trying to stay fit and alive.
      Glad to hear that you could come back from two serious heart attacks to be a bicycle rider – that’s amazing, and really impressive. Keep riding!
      Joe

  2. Jenna says

    September 22, 2010 at 3:23 pm

    I love your blog. I have been working on an article about ebikes, and now you are motivating me to finish it. I have had a Bionx L-350 for 3 years now. It is mounted on the top of the frame, and now I wonder if it is hurting my bike. They are making a rear-mount battery that is smaller, but more costly. There really is no easy answer- I used to have it on the saddle rack at the back, which made my bike unsteady to ride. Plus, I had to carry it around, cuz it was in one of those Battery bags. Any body want a flicker case?That was my second pack. Also unstable. Having a mount on the frame is the best option for me.

    • Avatar photoJoeAverage says

      September 22, 2010 at 4:53 pm

      Jenna, THANKS for saying you love my blog! I put a lot of work into it, so it’s great to know that it brings some pleasure to others. I still don’t know the answer to the best way to mount it – I wish they would hurry up and invent smaller batteries! Everything electronic seems to get smaller over time, so why not batteries?

  3. Voytek says

    October 1, 2010 at 10:51 pm

    Hey all,

    Thanks for posting about the BionX systems. Ive really wanted to invest in one but I just wasnt sure what to expect in terms of a commute. When I read about the commute time being cut down (especially on sardine-like Translink buses) I had to go try one out. Cheers to a revolutionary commute!

    Voy

    • Avatar photoJoeAverage says

      October 3, 2010 at 11:06 am

      Hi Voytek. Yes, I think BionX is a revolution in commuting. If I went to work on transit it would take me 1 hour 15 minutes. On my BionX it is around 35 minutes, even fully loaded with laptop and clothes etc. Not to mention that cycling is such fun, and gets me to work all exhilirated and happy – whereas I really hate being sardined on Transit in rush hour traffic, not even able to read because there are no seats … it’s just dead, depressing time. Hey, by the way, my post later today is going to be about BionX … about my first ever test drive on BionX.

  4. Graeme says

    October 10, 2010 at 7:32 am

    Does the BionX make it easier to cycle, or just faster? I have read some comments that state the latter, but my interest in the product is based on the belief that my knees are going to give out in a few years, and I can’t stand the thought of giving up the only real exercise I have ever actually enjoyed. I’m not so sure that pedalling with the same or increased resistance (even if for a shorter time) to go up hills would be a good thing.

    I am saddened to hear of the damage to your bike. As you know from comments and photos I posted on your Central Valley Greenway article, I too have had to cope with damage to a beautiful Devinci. Perhaps we should start a support group.

    • Avatar photoJoeAverage says

      October 10, 2010 at 11:21 am

      Hi Graeme. I am going to ask my wife to respond to your question about the knees, because she had exactly the same problem.

      Maggie says: “The answer to your question is actually both, but it depends how you use the assist. Joe likes go fast and therefore uses the assist differently than me.
      My doctor advised me to cycle to rehab my knees (injured by running) so that the muscles around my knees would strengthen. When I rode, whether on level spots or elevations, I focussed on my knees and increased the assist until my knees felt comfortable with minimal resistance. After a year of riding assisted on the Bionx/Devinci I have now graduated to a regular mountain bike and can handle many hills and our longer touring rides, under my own steam!”

      Back to Joe: based on Maggie’s experience, I would say BionX would be ideal for your situation, Graeme. I also have times when my knees develop pain (I think pretty much all cyclists probably have some degree of knee pain from time to time). When that happens I let the BionX do most of the work for a day or two, use my magical castor oil treatment, and then my knees are usually fine again. Also when there are heat waves and it feels unsafe to exert too much energy, I let the BionX do most of the work. With a PL-350, you can actually go on the flats without pedalling at all, if you need to from time to time.

      With regard to the Devinci, it seems I am going to be luckier than you (with your folded, dead bike). Pol at the Bike Doctor has gone to bat for me. He is negotiating with BionX and Devinci to find a solution for me. He has come up with a plan I like. I don’t want to jinx it by writing about it before it all comes together; but if it does come together as planned, I will do a post on it. It looks like my 12-year loyalty to Bike Doctor is going to be justified, because they are really going the extra mile for me on this one.

      • Graeme says

        October 11, 2010 at 7:26 am

        Devinci seems very good at working with your LBS (or else Rocky Cycle has even better customer service than I thought). I had a problem with my disc brakes pulling my front wheel out of the dropouts a bit, and ended up with a free carbon fork upgrade. I was told that my old (aluminum) fork was bent; no idea how that could have happened, but I’m happy with the carbon fork, even if it does look a bit out of place.

        • Avatar photoJoeAverage says

          October 11, 2010 at 10:42 am

          Good to know that Devinci is usually very good, as they are our best Canadian option, in my opinion. I love the lines on their bikes; they just seem more sophisticated than Norco, for example. At least for hybrids that is … not so sure about mountain bikes and road bikes which I know less about?

    • Avatar photoJoeAverage says

      October 10, 2010 at 9:11 pm

      Hey Graeme – your mention of your knee pain made me decide to do a post about my own, magical cure for cyclist knee pain – check it out at https://averagejoecyclist.com/?p=1188 !

  5. Arthur Horne says

    October 17, 2010 at 5:56 am

    Joe, I should point out right away, I’m selling BionX motors in SLC, Utah at Le Velo L.L.C. Having said that: I felt just the way you did, like a super hero. I thought I feel like I did when I was a kid, if I could bottle this and sell it, wow! I can, I did, I sold everything I had and opened Le Velo in March. Motors are slowly taking off in America as people reconsider the automobile culture. I have never had so much fun in my life. I wanted to chip in about mount alternatives. I bounce, I jump, I hop rocks and curbs, I broke my water-bottle mount the second day I rode my PL350. Couple really cool tricks exist. If you choose wood scraps or leftover old innertubes to build a crushable layer under the battery mount. You can screw it down with no wiggle. In addition you can slide cheap $2.00 pipe clamps through the slots in the side of the mount and then put on max pressure with the screws. Be careful here you can deform the battery mount with too much pressure. Snug it is very stable. I have done a very successful mount with a seat tube. This makes for easy battery removal in high traffic parking place. With the power cord extension which is fairly inexpensive I have the battery for my PL500 mounted in a back pack which I can wear or secure in the Bob- trailer. One of my customers needed an extra battery because he pulls a trailer up and down allot of hills on dirt roads. He carries the extra battery on the trailer and just switches the power plugs on his lunch hour.
    I love your site, I’ll be back.
    Bub Horne
    Le Velo LLC
    Salty Lake City Utah

    • Avatar photoJoeAverage says

      October 17, 2010 at 6:28 pm

      Hi, nice to hear from someone in SLC! Thanks for the input on the mount issues. I think my bike shop is going to get it all sorted out with a new frame; they are also planning to stabilize the battery in some way on the bottle mounts. They are pretty sure it caused the frame damage because of wobbling. I agree with your idea of rubber padding – I tried it a while ago and it really stabilized the battery. However, I did not know that the damage was already done with the mounting holes on the frame.

      I often say that if I had money to invest, I’d open an electric bike shop. I really think it’s the way of the future, once more people realize the incredible potential. For example, my 69-year-old mother could easily do her shopping with an electric bike – AND she’d be getting enough exercise to make her fitter and stronger!

      Good for you, living your dream. I wish you all the very best with your venture. And thanks for saying you love the site – I love to hear that. It’s strange communicating with a largely invisible audience, so I love it when someone becomes “visible” – especailly when they give me such great feedback. 🙂

  6. Max Read says

    May 21, 2011 at 12:59 pm

    I’m lucky; a friend of a friend lent me her BionX electric bike for a couple of months, and I think I’m hooked! It’ll be a financial stretch for me to get my own bike, but for all the good reasons above (enjoy riding, easy fitness, quick non-bus commutes) I think I’ll have to. (I want to!) So it’s good to hear that the BionX systems are reliable, fairly durable, and that JV Bikes is good to deal with – I’m in Vancouver. Thanks for sharing all the helpful advice!

    • Avatar photoAverage Joe Cyclist says

      May 21, 2011 at 2:53 pm

      You’re welcome Max. Check out the combo Valencia + Trek sold by CAPs in New West (ask for Marie, if she’s there – she’s helpful and knowledgable). I think if I were to replace my own set-up, I would seriously look at that. BionX and Trek have this mutual agreement right now, so Trek is making bikes pre-customized with BionX. I saw one in the New West CAPS, and It was just so totally cool looking (in matte black) that I wanted to buy it immediately. Resisted the urge … I have no justification as I already have such a great bike … but you’re free to choose, buddy!

  7. Graeme says

    May 25, 2011 at 4:35 am

    As an experienced ebiker, do you think there’s any detriment to Treks’ having the battery stored in a rack over the back wheel, as opposed to being more central as it is on the “classic” BionX configuration? I know that I sometimes have to lean way forward when pedalling my mountain bike up a steep hill; would this be true in a “rear battery” situation as well, or is it less of an issue when the feet aren’t pushing as hard?

    • Avatar photoAverage Joe Cyclist says

      May 26, 2011 at 5:08 pm

      Graeme, my best bet would be that it is not going to be a problem. Mainly because you will not have to lean forward much, if at all. I would be more concerned about how easy it is to remove the battery. It looked to me a bit like it was pretty much ensconced and would be hard to remove. I frequently remove mine – at work I am not close enough to a power source to plug it in while parked, so I take the battery up to my office. And if I am parked in public, I don’t want to leave a battery that would cost hundreds of dollars to replace attached to the bike.

  8. Mark Milo says

    January 5, 2012 at 10:25 am

    This bike arrived on time. However, it was not the bike pictured on amazon. It is, however similar, and equal in power. Well, it was so badly dammaged in shipping, that the 2 racks that go over the fenders were cracked. The panel on the handle bars that has the power button also has a button for headlight, but there is no head light. Also, a spoke was broke. The assembly instructions were extremely poor. I did not call customer service because I knew they would tell me to box it up and send it back… which would of taken several hours. I took it to one bike shop, and they told me they dont do electric bikes. …. so beware, your local bike dealer may not service this bike. Fortunately, I was able to find a shop to put it together.

    After assembly and a charge, the ride was nice and smooth, and the power from the moter made riding on a flat surface effortless, and going up hills very easy. I rode for 1 hour before the energy gague went down 1 notch (1 of 4). So, aside from the fact that the bike is not the one pictured, and minus 2 broken racks, inadequate assembly instructions, and a missing headlamp, and a broken spoke, I am reluctant to allow this item to be more deserving of anything over 2 stars. I would expect that anyone who pays $1500 for a bike should at least get the bike pictured, and not have all these problems.

  9. electric bike review says

    February 6, 2012 at 2:58 pm

    If you live in the city, automobile traffic and parking locations are things that receive a great deal of contemplation, except if you get an electric bike. Locate the best electric bike to solve these complaints at Search engines like google in order to make your selection.

  10. Andrew says

    April 20, 2012 at 6:40 pm

    I just came across this thread and decided to post my comment…. being a guy past my prime and with a hip problem I decided to hop on the e-bike wagon. Well, to cut to the chase – I couldn’t be more happy!!! I can ride again!! Conquering North Vancouver hills, against the wind, no matter. Evolution Bikes, that’s the place I got my ride from. Very friendly folks. Why didn’t I think of it sooner?
    Cheers!!!

  11. Dennis says

    January 7, 2013 at 1:52 pm

    I can’t decide between the ‘down tube’ mount and the ‘rear rack’ mount for the Bionx system.
    I have read that the water bottle solution has failed in some cases and conversely there are concerns about stability issues if I opt for the ‘rear rack’ option. I have no intention to let my Kona Dr. Dew bike fall over, but it does seem that the rear rack would be a better choice if my bike were to fall over. The battery might be better protected and better secured, I really don’t know.
    I too, live in North Vancouver and intend to shop at JV Bikes.

    Any thoughts, comments, or suggestions?

    Thanks

    • Avatar photoAverage Joe Cyclist says

      January 20, 2013 at 5:34 pm

      I really think that the down tube is more balanced, so you are less likely to fall over in the first place. Sadly, it will also be protected on the down tube, because your legs will protect it! I think most people agree that the down tube is better, BUT as batteries become ever lighter, this is certain to change. So either one would be a good option.

  12. Tana Elva says

    December 5, 2013 at 10:59 am

    I have a 2012 Trek 7200 WSD Hybrid, & am considering the BionX 350SL 48V LiIon. Does anyine know #1-if I can do the Down Tube one on my bike (no answer from Trek or BionX!)? #2- can a Burley Nimad or Cargo trailer still be hooked up to it?thanks much.

Trackbacks

  1. Ride your Way LEAN Take Two | Average Joe's Cycling Blog says:
    April 9, 2011 at 12:09 pm

    […] to my BionX-assisted bike I was able to get back on a bike a few days later, and eased right back into regular cycling pretty […]

  2. Average Joe Cyclist Product Review: 2011 Specialized Dolce Sport Triple (WSD) | Average Joe's Cycling Blog says:
    September 2, 2012 at 11:20 pm

    […] blog, my wife Maggie recently started regular cycle commuting. She started off on a bike with a BionX electric assist, but is doing so well that she decided to graduate herself to a regular bike. She did her research […]

  3. Average Joe Cyclist Guide to Bike Lights for Winter | Average Joe's Cycling Blog says:
    October 13, 2012 at 12:58 am

    […] lights are on. There are just two downsides to Reelight SL120 lights: if you have disk brakes or a BionX bike, it can be tricky to line them up correctly; and the light they generate is minimalist. […]

  • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs 830 vs 530

Welcome to Average Joe Cyclist!

Welcome to our blog! I’m Joe Goodwill, an average cyclist, and I write a blog for people like me. People who love cycling but will probably never win any races, and who don’t necessarily look good in Lycra! I also write the Electric Bikes Blog and Average Joe's RV Living Blog. To find our most popular posts, check out our Start Here page.

Hi! I'm Maggie Neilson (aka Mrs. Average Joe Cyclist). Joe and I have done a lot of cycling, and we share what we have learned on this blog . We also write reviews of cycling products and trails! Get to know us better HERE.

How our Product Links Work

  • You pay EXACTLY the same price, whether you use our links or go direct to the websites.
  • Earning some commission enables us to spend more time writing posts 🙂
  • THANK YOU to all the good people who have bought through our links. Your support is sincerely appreciated.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Search Average Joe Cyclist!

Trending – Our Top Posts Right Now!

  • The Garmin Edge 830 on Maggie's bike Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 vs 830 vs 530 GPS Bike Computers: Full Review and Comparison of GPS Bike Computers with Navigation
  • They look the same - but there are quite a lot of differences!. Garmin edge 1030 plus vs 1040 bike computers Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus: What’s the Difference?
  • How E-Bikes Can Help Couples to Cycle Together 5 Doctor’s Tips to Start Cycling Again after Knee Replacement Surgery
  • 7 of the best bike panniers 7 of the Best Waterproof Bike Panniers, 2023 – for Better Bike Commuting and Touring
  • Every body starts somewhere - and with enough determination, you could become one of the smiling competitors in a cycling event How to Get Bike Fit: Complete Bike Training Plan
  • 7 of the best bike computers, 2021 7 of the Best Bike Computers for 2023 – from Budget to Premium
  • erectile dysfunction Can Cycling Cause Penis Numbness, Erectile Dysfunction, and Prostate Cancer?
  • Shokz OpenRun Pro vs. Shokz OpenRun Bone Conduction Headphones: What’s the Difference? Shokz OpenRun Pro vs. Shokz OpenRun Bone Conduction Headphones: What’s the Difference?
  • Top 10 tips to avoid a sore butt from cycling Top 10 Tips on How to Avoid a Sore Butt from Cycling
  • This graphic shows you the relative sizes of the 530 (left), 1030 Plus (center), and 830 (right) Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus vs 830 vs 530 Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, Reviews and Videos

  • Click for our Best Cycling Training Plans!

Copyright © 2023 · Average Joe Cyclist, please contact us for syndication rights.

 

Loading Comments...