Trek Bicycles Goes Full Oprah, Drops an Affordable e-Bike for Everyone

What we have here is known as the Townie Go! 7D Step-Thru. It’s currently the most affordable e-bike in the Trek arsenal. Actually, so far in my experience with these big brand e-bikes, this one takes the top spot on the current podium as the most affordable. Sure, there’s cheaper e-bikes, but do you really want a Chinese knock-off for your first e-bike?

Well, now we no longer have to wait for discounted offers or someone selling a used e-bike. For just $1,499.99 without shipping, you can now say you own an e-bike from one of the best teams around. But is that all you can say? I mean, are we just getting a bike with a famous sticker on it, or does this thing really mean business? Keep reading to find out.

One of the main reasons why this trinket comes in at such a low rate is because of the frame construction. No, not the geometry, but the material. It's made of 6061-T6 aluminum shaped with Trek’s very own patented Flat Foot Technology in mind as to ensure an upright and relaxed seating position while offering proper leg extension.

The second safety feature you’ll find on the frame is the shape itself. The step-through frames we see on many different brands of bicycles allow for the safest mount and dismount operation possible. To keep up with the times, this frame does include internal cable routing as well.

Being the sort of city bike that it is, don’t bother looking for a suspension anywhere. Well, nowhere classic anyway. As most other bikes in its class, the 7D also relies on the wheels and a shock-absorber built into the seat to smoothen things out. That’s really all you need to take care of already smooth asphalt and the occasional curb.

Now, one of the most crucial elements whenever we discuss e-bikes is the motor. I must say that this was a first for me, but Trek equipped the 7D with what looks to be an entirely new brand of motor and battery system. It’s called Hydrive and includes a decently capable 250W rear hub motor that can propel you to speeds of 20 mph (32 kph), the same speed limit as most other motors on the market.

As for the battery, have you been able to spot it at all without me telling you that it’s mounted in the rear rack? I won’t lie saying I knew all along where it was; I didn’t. This 309Wh battery is more than enough to keep you cruising for up to 50 miles (80 km). Oh, and it comes with a two-year warranty.

Take a wild guess at who could be responsible for the rest of the drivetrain. Shimano for the win! We're talking a seven-speed setup with Revo 7-speed twist shifters, Tourney rear derailleur, and finally a KMC chain.

With all those components mounted on an aluminum frame, the entire bike tips the scales at just 48 lbs (21.18 kg) and will support a total combined weight of 300 lbs (136 kg), including bike, rider, and cargo.

Honestly, I feel like I'm living in that ‘Shut up and take My Money’ GIF we’ve seen floating around online. And for good reason. It’s a friggin e-bike from Trek for $1,500! Sorry had to say it again. I wonder if they still offer that famed lifetime warranty. How about you click here and find out for yourself?