The Joe Rev 2 electric BMX bike ditches fancy tech for pure, unadulterated fun, embracing a minimalist design that’s both stylish and surprisingly practical.
Designed with a full-sized, BMX-inspired frame, the Joe Rev 2 comes in eye-catching colors like electric blue and matte gray, complete with chunky 3-inch tan wall balloon tires and classic handlebars. It skips the apps, complex displays, lights, and suspension, focusing instead on five levels of pedal assist and a throttle. Powering the ride is a 750-watt rear-hub motor paired with a single-speed drivetrain.
The bike’s stripped-down philosophy is even playfully noted with "No cream, no sugar" printed on the chainstays, highlighting its commitment to simplicity. This minimalist approach contributes to a lighter weight of 56 pounds, making it more manageable than many other e-bikes.
This is the second generation of the original Joe Rev, which remains available for $1,200. The Rev 2 boasts an upgraded 500 Wh battery offering a claimed 60-mile range, an improvement from the previous 48 miles. It also features a new 2-by-2.5-inch LCD screen on the handlebar, displaying speed, power level, and battery life, a step up from the original’s basic button-operated hub.
The battery, weighing around 7 pounds, can be easily removed with a key for charging and slides back into the frame. While it fits in a backpack, its 18-inch length might be a squeeze in already full bags.
During testing, a teenage rider (5'10", 145 lbs) using the throttle primarily on hilly terrain managed about 20 miles before the battery needed a recharge. This highlights how rider weight, speed, and terrain significantly impact an e-bike's range, a crucial factor for all electric bicycles.
Interestingly, a warning sticker advises against riders under 16. However, as a Class 2 e-bike with pedals and a top speed of 20 mph, it's legally permitted for younger riders in many areas, making the warning a point of note.
