Its been more than a year now that we’ve been exploring many different models of bikes from the folks at Prodecotech in Florida. We’ve found them to be sturdy, solid, no-frills bikes that offer mid-to-upper-tier components at close-to-entry-level prices. Also, they are one of the few companies that can say their bikes are built here in the U.S.

Admittedly, we were a bit skeptical at first, and the company has struggled a bit with their near instant success (an issue all businesses would welcome wrestling with!) in their first few years. The bikes are now performing as promised and the infrastructure in Florida improves all the time. What we are currently most excited about are the following two bikes that we can sell for the amazingly low price of $1599.

The Stride 500 is a delightful step-thru frame style that allows folks on a budget to enter the e-bike world knowing that they are still getting a solid, dependable rig. Its over-sized vented saddle and quick adjust handlebar stem assure a comfortable riding experience.

The Phantom X2 has been breaking sales records with its sporty appeal and unique folding frame feature. Both bikes offer 500 watt direct drive motors that provide a smooth and quiet 20 mph top speed. (They’re not the strongest hill climbers in the shop but for the price they are a solid value.) They have removable, lockable 36V 12AH large capacity batteries for a 28-38 mile range. Our favorite Avid BB7 mechanical disc brakes, Sram 8 speed drive train components, and front suspension forks round out the offerings.

What you don’t get with these bikes are lights, fenders, or elaborate computer displays with automatic pedal assist modes. They are powered via a manual twist throttle (my preferred power delivery mode) and have simple state-of-charge battery indicator lights. Owing to the design of the rear mounted battery, panniers and rear baskets are not an option in most cases. However, alternative solutions are available for all these issues, so they needn’t be a deal breaker.

So, if you want a bike that delivers substantial value, and it does so at a pleasing $1599 price point, The Stride 500 and Phantom X2 from Prodecotech are well worth a look. We will have both of them on display in our new shop location (more about that in just a few days) within a week. Come see all that’s new at Ashland Electric Bikes very soon!

Yes, that’s right; we’ve finally found a new place to call home, and its been worth the wait! Starting November 1st (!?) we’ll be open at 1678 Ashland St. which is in the Ashland Shopping Center. Our space is at the left front corner where Advance Photo has been for twenty years, across the parking lot from Wendy’s. We’re expanding our floor area fivefold and increasing our visibility exponentially. Business is booming and this move is coming at the perfect time.

With the bigger space we will now be able to expand the service area to accommodate more bikes, both electric and standard. To that end I am looking for another part-time/soon-to-be-full-time mechanic. Electric bike experience is a major plus but not a requirement. What is required is that you are well versed with all aspects of bicycle service, you’re passionate about the place bikes have in our unfolding future on planet Earth, and you have solid people skills that enable you to do sales floor duty during busy times. Solid dependability is essential to me; I want to know that you’ll be able to uphold the stellar service that has become a hallmark of Ashland Electric Bikes.

We are currently very busy with the move itself, so come see me in person at our current space on Hersey St. rather than just calling on the phone. Come show me what makes you the right man or woman for the job!