Velotric Packer ‍1 E-Bike Review: Cargo Carrying Made Easy

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When it comes to eco-friendly transportation solutions, electric bikes have taken the world by storm. Their ability to provide a convenient and sustainable mode of transportation has made them increasingly popular among people worldwide. One company that has helped to revolutionize the e-bike market is Velotric. Founded in 2020, Velotric has quickly become one of the more respected and innovative electric bike makers in the industry. With their quality builds and great designs, they have been able to provide riders with a variety of options that make commuting and traveling with an electric bike easier than ever before. They are now entering into the cargo e-bike category with their Go 1 and the Packer 1 cargo e-bikes, we will be testing and reviewing both e-bikes, starting with the Packer 1.

Introduction to the Velotric Packer 1 Cargo E-Bike

The Velotric Packer 1 is specifically designed to be a heavy-duty cargo e-bike that is ready to haul just about anything. With its sturdy frame and spacious cargo area, it allows you to transport your belongings effortlessly. Whether you need to carry groceries, packages, or even larger items, the Packer 1 is up to the task. Its innovative design and great features make it a reliable companion for everyday journeys.

Unboxing the Velotric Packer 1

The Velotric Packer 1 comes in a standard-size e-bike box that is well-packaged. The box has a unique fold-out design that gives you a nice clean work area to build the bike on. There is also a giant QR code printed on the box that can be scanned which will take you to an instructional video for assembly.

Inside, you will find all of the necessary tools and components for assembly, along with the frame, battery, and four numbered boxes that helps simplify the process. The unboxing experience was seamless, and I appreciated the attention to detail in the packaging.

Assembly of the Packer 1

The assembly process of the Velotric Packer 1 was straightforward, thanks to the detailed instructions provided. Parts that need to be installed were the front tire and fender, handlebars, display, headlight, pedals, bell and reflectors.

It took me right around 30 minutes to put the e-bike together, and I found the process to be hassle-free. All of the parts fit perfectly, and the included tools were sufficient for the assembly.

Build Quality of the Packer 1

The build quality of the Velotric Packer 1 is quite remarkable. The frame is made from high-quality aluminum alloy, which not only ensures durability but also keeps the weight of the e-bike in check. The welds are some of the most clean and precise that I have ever seen on any ebike, showcasing the attention to detail in the manufacturing process. Additionally, the cargo area is integrated with the frame for reinforcement and can withstand heavy loads without compromising stability.

Packer 1 Motor

At the heart of the Velotric Packer 1 is a powerful and efficient motor. The 750W brushless rear hub motor provides ample torque, allowing the e-bike to tackle steep inclines and challenging terrains with ease, even when hauling heavy cargo. During my rides, I found the motor to be responsive and smooth, providing a seamless transition between pedal-assist and full electric modes. The motor’s performance exceeded my expectations and contributed to an enjoyable riding experience.

Packer 1 Battery and Charger

A reliable battery is essential for any e-bike, and the Velotric Packer 1 hits solid marks. Equipped with a 48V 14.4Ah lithium-ion battery that has 691.2Wh, it offers a good range of up to 52 miles on a single charge. While it is not the biggest battery on the market, nor is it the smallest. It is a solidly spec’d middle of the road battery built with the always reliable LG cells. With that being said, if I had to pick a component on this bike that Velotric should have went all in on, it would be a larger capacity battery. The Packer has a weight capacity of 440 lbs. and if you were to fully load it with cargo, the ride time and distance will be severely diminished. Where as a bigger capacity battery would better accommodate a lot longer ride times with super heavy loads.

The battery is removable, allowing for convenient charging both on and off the e-bike. The included charger replenishes the battery in approximately 4-6 hours, ensuring minimal downtime between rides.

Packer 1 Display and Controller

The Velotric Packer 1 features an intuitive backlit LCD display and controller, which provide essential information and control over the e-bike’s settings. The display is easy to read, even in bright sunlight, and offers a clear view of the current speed, battery level, distances, and selected assist level.

Additionally, a USB charging port is provided on the display for charging devices on the go.

On the left side of the handlebar sits a throttle lever and the control buttons. The throttle allows you to power the motor with just a thumb push of the lever. The control buttons allow you to power on/off the e-bike, adjust the pedal assist level, turn the lights on and off, and navigate through all of the different modes and features in the LCD menus.

Hydraulic Brakes

Safety is a top priority when it comes to any form of transportation, and the Velotric Packer 1 excels in this aspect. The 180mm hydraulic disc brakes on the Velotric Packer 1 offer an exceptional level of control and stability during braking. I found them to be highly responsive, allowing me to stop quickly and effectively in any situation. The brakes also provide excellent modulation, so I could easily adjust the amount of stopping power required for different scenarios. Additionally, the brakes are low maintenance and require minimal upkeep over time. This is a major advantage compared to non-hydraulic brakes, which require regular adjustments and replacements. Overall, the hydraulic disc brakes provide an increased level of safety and performance that I truly appreciate.

Tires

The tires of the Velotric Packer 1 are designed for both comfort and durability. The Velotric Packer 1 is equipped with CST tires for performance and safety. The front tire is a 26×2.4″ puncture-resistant CST, while the rear tire is a 20×3.0″ CST. The wider profile rear tire enhances stability, especially when carrying heavy loads in the cargo area.

These tires provide excellent grip on both dry and wet surfaces, allowing for easy maneuvering in any conditions. The puncture-resistant feature also prevents flats from occurring, further adding to the safety of the ride. Furthermore, they are designed to absorb shocks and vibrations from rough roads, providing a smooth ride even on less than ideal terrain.

I was very pleased with how well these tires handled during my rides with the Velotric Packer 1. They gave me the confidence I needed to carry heavy cargo loads without worry, allowing me to enjoy my rides even more.

Suspension

The Velotric Packer 1 also features a hydraulic suspension system with 80mm of travel and a lockout feature. This means that the suspension can be locked out for more efficient pedaling on flat surfaces or unlocked for more cushioning over rough terrain. The hydraulic suspension is also adjustable, allowing you to customize the level of stiffness and dampening to suit your riding style. I found this feature to be particularly useful when riding on roads with varying levels of terrain. I could easily adjust the suspension in order to maximize my comfort and control over different types of surfaces. Additionally, the lockout feature allowed me to conserve energy while pedaling on smooth roads, making my rides even more enjoyable. Overall, the suspension system provided an excellent balance between comfort and performance that I truly appreciated.

Drivetrain

The Velotric Packer 1 is equipped with a SHIMANO 8-speed drivetrain, which provides a wide range of gears for any terrain. The 8-speed system allows you to easily shift between gears, providing smooth transitions and allowing you to find the perfect gear for any situation. The drivetrain also features a reliable crankset and derailleur that ensures smooth and precise shifting. I was very impressed with how well the SHIMANO 8-speed system performed during my rides with the Velotric Packer 1.

The gear range is well-suited for urban commuting, providing options for both speed and torque. During my rides, I appreciated the gear ratio, as it allowed me to effortlessly tackle various inclines and maintain a comfortable cadence.

Seat

The seat of the Velotric Packer 1 is designed for comfort and convenience. The saddle is ergonomically shaped and provides good support and cushioning, helping to reduce fatigue during long rides. Additionally, it features an adjustable stem that allows you to customize the height of the seat for a personalized riding position. Overall, I was really pleased with the level of comfort provided by the seat of the Velotric Packer 1.

Kickstand

The Velotric Packer 1 is equipped with a double leg kickstand that provides a stable base to park the bike. This kickstand is perfect for loading and unloading cargo as it ensures that the bike stays upright and secure. The kickstand also makes it easier to secure the bike when parking in public places. With the double-leg kickstand, I never had to worry about the bike tipping over or falling over while I was away. The kickstand was also very easy to deploy and retract.

Rear Rack

The Velotric Packer 1 also includes a large rear rack with a 176 lb. carrying capacity. The rack is part of the frame of the bike and constructed with durable aluminum alloy. It is designed to fit a variety of accessories such as a cargo basket, passenger seat pads, a child safety balustrade, and panniers. The rack also features many mounting points for added convenience, which makes it easy to customize the rack to meet specific needs.

Lights

The Velotric Packer 1 has integrated head and tail lights for added safety and visibility when riding in low-light conditions. The headlight is bright, providing ample illumination when riding at night or in the early morning hours. I found this to be especially helpful during my rides, as it allowed me to see more clearly and stay safe. The tail light is also bright, ensuring that the bike can be spotted from a distance. The rear taillight is also a brake light and is activated whenever either of the brake levers are pulled. This is not only a great feature for commuters who ride frequently in dimly lit areas, but also from an everyday safety standpoint.

Waterproof Storage Bag

Tucked into the frame of the Packer is a waterproof storage bag with a TSA lock. This bag is perfect for storing smaller items such as bike tools, smartphone, wallet, keys and other valuables while out on a ride. Its waterproof material ensures that your items are safe from the elements.

The TSA lock also provides additional security, making sure that your items are safe and secure. I found this storage bag to be very convenient and a nice little addition to the Velotric Packer 1.

Works with Apple Find My ™

One unique feature of the Velotric Packer 1 is its compatibility with Apple Find My ™. This allows you to track the location of the e-bike in case it gets misplaced or stolen. The integration with Apple Find My ™ provides an added layer of security and peace of mind.

Ride Performance of the Packer 1

The Velotric Packer 1 is a powerful and reliable e-bike that offers a smooth ride. The integrated motor and battery system provides plenty of power to get me up hills quickly and easily. The throttle is smooth and responsive, allowing me to control my speed with ease. And with the 5 levels of pedal assist, it makes it easy to customize the ride to suit my needs. Whether it’s cruising on flat terrain or tackling hills, the Packer 1 had me covered. The overall stability and balance of the e-bike, coupled with its responsive handling, make it a joy to ride. The brakes were also responsive and reliable, providing excellent stopping power when needed. All in all, I was really impressed with the ride performance of the Velotric Packer 1.

Accessories for the Velotric Packer 1

To enhance the versatility of the Velotric Packer 1, a range of accessories is available. These include front and rear racks, passenger seats, passenger handle bars, child safety rails, and footrests  These accessories allow you to customize the e-bike based on your specific needs, further expanding its utility.

Two passenger seat pads can be added to the Packer 1. They attach securely with four mounting bolts, have a generous amount of padding, making them quite comfortable to take a ride with a friend or family member. The handlebars provide an additional level of support for the passenger while also allowing them to rest their arms comfortably. Finally, the wide footrests provide extra comfort and stability for passengers allowing them to relax and enjoy the ride.

The front and rear racks are great for carrying groceries, beach items, camping gear and other goods depending on the planned trip. They are made of sturdy aluminum and have plenty of spots to attach tiedowns or bungee cords, making them easy to secure cargo. The rear rack also includes a lining bag that is made of waterproof and wear-resistant Oxford fabric, which allows it to hold up to long-term daily use.

Riding the Packer 1 with Cargo

The true test of any cargo e-bike is its ability to handle heavy loads. The Velotric Packer 1 surpasses expectations in this regard. The spacious cargo area can comfortably accommodate bulky items, and the reinforced construction ensures stability and safety. During my rides with cargo, I found the e-bike to be well-balanced, with the weight distribution optimized for optimal handling. Whether it was a large grocery haul or transporting my beach gear, the Packer 1 proved to be a reliable companion.

And just to see if the Packer 1’s rear rack capacity of 176 lbs., was legit, I loaded up the rear rack with 200 lbs. of weight plates and it held without any issue. However one thing that I learned with this experiment was that the weight of the cargo being hauled should be equal to or less than the rider’s weight in order to obtain a comfortable and well balanced ride. Hauling 200 lbs. was just barely doable, but definitely on the less than ideal side from a well balanced e-bike standpoint.

Benefits of using the Velotric Packer 1 for Cargo Carrying

There are numerous benefits to using the Velotric Packer 1 for cargo carrying. Firstly, it reduces your carbon footprint by providing a sustainable alternative to traditional transportation methods. Secondly, it saves you money on fuel and parking costs, making it a cost-effective option in the long run.

Additionally, the Packer 1 promotes a healthier lifestyle by encouraging physical activity through pedal-assist riding. Lastly, its versatility and spacious cargo area make it an ideal choice for various applications, from grocery shopping to beach trips to cookouts and more.

Features and Specifications of the Velotric Packer 1

• Frame: Aluminum Alloy
• Motor: 750W Brushless Rear Hub Motor
• Battery: 48V 14.4Ah Lithium-ion (Removable)
• Display: LCD
• Brakes: Hydraulic Disc Brakes
• Tires: CST, puncture-resistant (Front) CST 26×2.4″ (Rear) CST 20×3.0″
• Suspension: Hydraulic Front Fork Suspension, 80mm of travel w/lockout
• Drivetrain: 8-speed Shimano
• Additional Features: Works with Apple Find My ™, Waterproof Storage Bag

Conclusion: Is the Velotric Packer 1 the Right E-bike for You?

The Velotric Packer 1 is a versatile and reliable cargo e-bike that excels in performance and functionality. Its sturdy build quality, powerful motor, and spacious cargo area make it an ideal choice for urban commuters and cargo carriers alike. Whether you’re transporting groceries, running errands, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride, the Packer 1 delivers a comfortable and effortless experience. If you’re in the market for an e-bike that combines practicality, sustainability, and style, the Velotric Packer 1 is definitely worth considering.

For more info on the Packer 1 and other Velotric e-bikes visit www.veloticbike.com.