The TST Surfer electric bike blends the natural feel of a regular bicycle with the speed and ease of electric pedal assist. Its lightweight design offers an accessible introduction to e-bikes for riders seeking a responsive and enjoyable experience. The Surfer retains traditional cycling sensations while adding helpful motor torque when desired.
After success with their original Surfer model, TSTebike retooled it with upgrades for even better performance. The new Surfer has increased battery range, improved lighting and brakes, and smart conveniences throughout. Yet it stays true to the core Surfer ethos – simplicity, agility, and refined power delivery.
Easy DIY Assembly for Quick Setup
Assembling them is straightforward compared to many complex e-bikes. It ships partially pre-built so you only need to bolt on major parts like the pedals, saddle, handlebars and front wheel. The included tools provide everything required except a bike pump.
TST assists the process with an assembly video accessible via a QR code on the manual. The step-by-step visual guidance makes setup intuitive. With the help of the video, you can transform the Surfer from a box of parts to a ready-to-ride bike in around 30 to 45 minutes. It’s a painless procedure anyone can handle.
Sleek Frame Design Enhances Handling and Storage
The Surfer has an understated aesthetic that disguises its electric components for a clean look. The motor and battery cables integrate neatly into the frame rather than dangle exposed. This achieves the Surfer’s pared-back, minimalist styling.
But the trim design serves functional purposes too. The Surfer weighs only 58 pounds, several pounds lighter than most e-bikes close to its price. The low weight makes a remarkable difference in handling and usability.
Steering and maneuvering the Surfer feels similar to a normal bike. You can easily lift it up curbs, carry it upstairs, or place it on car racks. Hefting heavy e-bikes is difficult and deters many potential riders. But the Surfer’s lightweight construction removes this barrier.
The svelte frame also facilitates storing the Surfer indoors at home or in the office. Bulky electric bikes are frustrating to park inside and often end up chained insecurely outside. The Surfer’s compact form makes indoor storage practical.
Smooth and Responsive Electric Assist
A 500-watt rear hub motor supplies the Surfer’s electric pedal assist. This provides moderate power levels well suited to the bike’s agile character. The motor delivers 60Nm of torque for brisk acceleration up to 23mph.
Surfer’s refined system applies power progressively without the abrupt torque engagement of some e-bike motors. This results in smooth, predictable speed increases as you dial up the assist. The subtle delivery blends naturally with your pedaling effort.
Power comes from a 48-volt, 15-amp hour battery seamlessly integrated into the frame. This supplies up to 50 miles of electric assist range, depending on conditions. With judicious use of pedal assist, you can extend rides well beyond an hour. When depleted, the battery fully recharges in around 4 to 6 hours.
Adds-On
The Surfer ships as a stripped-down e-bike that can be customized. It provides free luggage racks and fenders. This allows the Surfer to be modified for special uses such as cargo hauling, child transport, and wet weather riding.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Electric Bike
With the expanding e-bike market, it helps to carefully consider your needs before picking one.
- Storage space ─ Compact or foldable frames easily fit indoors at home or work.
- Commuting ─ Rack mounts and panniers are ideal for carrying stuff by bike. Fenders keep you dry.
- Heavy loads ─ Look for heavy-duty rear racks if you regularly haul lots of cargo.
- Hills ─ Motors with more torque and watts excel on steep slopes. The Surfer handles moderate inclines well.
- Range ─ Compare battery ranges to your average trip distance. The Surfer’s long range suits most city uses.
- Comfort ─ Suspension, wide tires, and adjustable stems provide a more relaxed position.
- Accessories ─ Built-in lights and fenders add convenience. Or customize with add-ons later.
The Surfer ─ A Responsive Urban E-bike with Everyday Versatility
The TST Surfer strikes an appealing balance between an agile pedal bike and an electric ride. It retains the dynamic feel of an acoustic bicycle with added motor assist for extra speed and stamina. A smartly designed frame and thoughtful features enhance the Surfer’s capabilities and convenience.
While powerful e-bikes have their place, the Surfer targets novice riders seeking an intuitive introduction to electric assist. Its refined power delivery helps rather than overwhelms. For active people, the Surfer offers an ideal fusion of pedal power and electric torque. It expands your possibilities for fast urban commutes, longer recreational rides, and everyday transportation.
Despite its quality components and smart extras, the Surfer delivers accessible e-bike performance and practicality below $2000. Combined with its user-friendly assembly and handling, the Surfer removes obstacles to enjoying electric cycling. If you value comfort over outright speed, the Surfer strikes a sweet spot between electric energy and an authentic cycling experience.
What to Know Before Buying an Electric Bike
How do electric bicycles work?
E-bikes come in many types like mountain, cargo, cruiser and road bikes. But they all have pedals and a motor powered by a battery.
The most common setup is a rear hub motor. Front hub motors are less common as they can make steering heavy. Mid-drive motors directly power the pedal crank for better efficiency but cost more.
How fast is an electric bike?
Bike speed rules vary across states, so check local laws before adjusting settings.
There are three e-bike classes by top assisted speed. Class 1 motors assist up to 20 mph while pedaling. Class 2 also reach 20 mph with throttle-only. Class 3 can get to 28 mph with human and motor power.
Because of their low speed, e-bikes are bikes, not motor vehicles. Licensing and registration isn’t required.
Should you buy the TST Surfer e-bike?
Yes. The Surfer is affordable, fast, and fun to ride.
The affordable Surfer is a great urban e-bike, offering a riding experience like a standard bike plus motor assist when needed. Its minimalist design looks sleek.
