Stromer ST the belated 15K review
I've been stuck at 16K ... COVID really cut the miles back (without that 26 mile per day office commute ;>). But paralleling my old Sparrow writeup... we'll call this 15K.
Unlike my late Sparrow, the Stromer is still going strong. I've chewed through several chains, a couple of cassettes (the rear gears), and a battery compartment (still unclear what caused the lock to misfire, but my ham-handed attempts to remove the battery during winter with the lock malfunction was ill-advised ;>).
My second battery pack is still going strong, there was a bit of a rattle, so I had a battery tech (aftermarket) open it up, and check it out. He added a little packing material. I had acquired a much used low capacity pack ... and thinking my commute was likely to resume "shortly" I had it upgraded to the larger capacity (with all new cells). I didn't plan ahead well enough, as now that particular commute is no more. So I have an extra battery pack (perhaps I should acquire a second Stromer to complete the battery ;>).
I've now had significantly more rides other ebikes to be able to make a more detailed comparison:
- The Stromer still feels the most natural, even when compared to other torque sensor based systems, from market leaders like Bosch.
- The rear hub motor approach, however, makes tire changes a real PITA. So at least twice a year (studs on/studs off) I'm reminded of just how annoying this is.
- While I usually keep my speed down to 20ish mph, the Class 3 (28mph) does come in handy when mixing things up with traffic. When I'm on a Class 1/2 bike I really miss it.
- Really wish Stromer had provided more accessory mount options, front rack/carrier, better rear cargo options.
- The Burley Travoy doesn't carry as much as my flatbed, but is more natural to ride with/handier to schelp into stores. So it has become my Costco and grocery hauler.
- Stromer parts can be absurdly expensive. I'd broken a brake lever ... and the factory could not provide a replacement lever (at any price) so their solution was to sell me a new brake unit ... and while the newer Tekro is a bit nicer than the older Magura .. it was truly annoying and pricey! My favorite local shop had (some years back) closed, leaving their only site being a long drive away, so I've had to dabble with other local shops. I miss my "Stromer whisperer". Most shops seem to have issues with Stromer ... as do many riders.
Based on my experience I most of us can easily replace most of our solo trips with an ebike, including hauling grocieres for a family of 4 (and a mangiere of animals) through all four seasons (which here in the Front Range can be experienced in week). Based on weight loss, and blood samples, there's clearly strong health benefits ... and it is cost effective ... even buying a premium model (indeed, if it results in more riding, it's well worth the extra cost ;>).
I probably would not buy another Stromer (unless used, to leverage my investment in chargers and batteries) ... although it remains my favorite ride ... picking a shop that is good to work with and going with what they can best support may be a better strategy..unless the shop relocates!