Since the needs and riding styles of commuters change daily, whether for commuting, leisure, or weekend adventures. There have been several upgrades to various models of e-bikes, such as the Priority Current to its Grand Touring Current Plus. Additionally, these upgrades are an improvement from the long-range battery performance, thumb-activated throttle, to its city-friendly and low-maintenance design.
Furthermore, Current Plus comes as a class 2 e-bike that can be adjusted to a class 3 e-bike (know the laws). And, it comes with a powerful 500 W mid-drive motor (140 Nm torque), 720 Wh battery, and a thumb throttle for fun rides. The rare inclusion of a thumb throttle on a mid-drive system, combined with the overall design, makes it a versatile e-bike.
Is the Priority Plus really an ultimate grand touring e-bike? This review will give you relevant insights into the long-range 720 Wh battery, the thumb throttle, and the e-bike as a whole.
What Makes the Priority Current Plus Unique?
The Priority Current Plus is a commuter or touring electric bike that comes as a Class 2 e-bike, offering five different pedal-assist modes. As a class 2 e-bike, it comes with a throttle and an estimated top speed of 20 mph. However, the Current Plus maximum speed can be adjusted to 28 mph (a Class 3 e-bike), while considering your local laws. Also, it weighs approximately 55-56.5 lbs. (with the battery and fenders installed).
Priority Current Plus comes in two versions: the Shimano and Enviolo versions (weigh 55 lbs and 56.5 lbs, respectively). Additionally, it is available in two gearing options: Shimano 5-speed and Enviolo CVT ($3,299 and $3,499, respectively). Additionally, the current Plus is available in various sizes for riders to choose from: Small (5’1″- 5’5“), Medium (5’5 “- 5’9“), and Large (5’9 “- 6’2“).
Battery and Motor (Mid-drive)
The Current Plus battery has an upgraded 720 Wh battery, which yields approximately 20 – 75 miles on a single charge. Additionally, this depends a lot on how you use the pedal assist and throttle. As with using a lower assist level and reducing throttle usage, it extends your riding range. Therefore, with proper power and battery management on the Current Plus, riders can enjoy extended long-range rides all day long. Interestingly, Current Plus features a 2.8-Amp charger, which recharges the battery from empty to fully charged in 5- 6 hours.
Furthermore, the mid-drive motor delivers sufficient power while riding, offering 500 watts of power and up to 140 Nm of torque. The torque sensor makes hill-climbing easy for riders, as it delivers a smooth and natural pedaling effort.
Thumb Throttle
While Current Plus is a mid-drive electric bike, its integrated thumb-activated throttle makes it perfect for commuting. The integrated throttle is placed ergonomically on the left side of the handlebars. Additionally, the throttle is designed to provide sufficient power for riders when climbing steep hills or accelerating rapidly with ease. Additionally, the thumb throttle is particularly useful for navigating stop-and-go urban traffic.
Frame and Tires
The Current Plus is made with an accessible and comfortable mid-step 6061 aluminum frame.
Additionally, the Priority Current Plus rides on smooth 650B x 50mm, wide 27.5-inch puncture-resistant tires and thru-axle wheels. Moreover, these tires can help you ride on paved trails and some unpaved trails, but not the rougher paths.
Brakes and Drivetrain
Current Plus features dual-piston hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors, which provide effective braking and ample power in various weather conditions. The stopping power gives riders enough control for effortless and smoother rides. Plus, it comes integrated with an electric motor cut-off switch for safe stops and improved effortless control.
The drivetrain uses Gates carbon belt drive, which helps with commuting with its low maintenance requirements (no rust, no grease, and no chain). Additionally, this system requires no lubrication, is rust-proof, quiet, and won’t stain your clothing, making it an important advantage for daily commuters. Current Plus also comes with an internally geared rear hub unit.
Moreover, you can get the 5-speed Shimano Nexus hub or Enviolo CVT hub (depending on your style and budget). Additionally, the belt drive enhances the bike’s suitability for a grand tour by ensuring its reliability while riding on trails.
Lights and Fenders
Additionally, it comes with fenders that provide riders with sufficient coverage from road spray while riding, especially on wet days. And this is an essential need for both commuting and touring, especially its payload capacity of 300 pounds. This allows the e-bike to easily carry riders and their essentials for a pleasurable touring or commuting experience.
Furthermore, the e-bike comes integrated with an active brake signalling taillight, a headlight (powered by the battery), and a kickstand. Additionally, the tires have reflective sidewall markings that increase your visibility at night.
Pro
- Easy to get on and off
- Comes equipped with lights, a rack, and fenders
- It has a low-maintenance drivetrain (Due to the Belt drive & hub gearing)
- Comes with a 720 Wh removable battery, safe to charge both on and off the e-bike.
- Has a payload capacity of 300 pounds
Cons
- Lacks suspension fork
- It is heavy, at 55 lbs
- It has a premium price tag
Conclusion
The Priority Current Plus is a versatile e-bike that effortlessly handles your everyday commutes and weekend adventures. Although it can be adjusted as a Class 3 e-bike, riding as a Class 2 is a better choice for more efficiency and performance.
In addition, the e-bike has been enhanced to meet riders’ demands for both maximum efficiency and convenience. This upgrade defines the current Plus not just as a commuter e-bike, but as a capable touring electric bike. With its 720Wh battery, integrated thumb-activated throttle, and low-maintenance design, it’s the perfect touring e-bike for your rides.
So, if you’re looking to buy a comfortable e-bike for your daily commutes and weekend adventures, the Current Plus is a great choice. Additionally, Current Plus is ideal for riders or enthusiasts who prefer premium features like the upgraded battery and mid-drive motor.
Get the Priority Current Plus and enjoy versatility on your rides!
