In the sub-£1,500 e-bike category, there’s no shortage of contenders, but few manage to balance real-world rideability, comfort, and spec sheet bragging rights quite like the Ride1Up LMTD V2.

Ride1Up LMTD V2 Review: Affordable premium performance, minus the gimmicks

April 12, 2025 Richard Alvin

In a crowded field of budget-friendly e-bikes, the Ride1Up LMTD V2 quietly asserts itself as one of the smartest commuter options of 2025.

Priced at £1,395, this refined update offers torque-sensing smoothness, commuter-grade comfort, and just the right balance of components—all without the gimmicks or inflated price tags.

Design: Clean lines, practical touches

The LMTD V2 comes in two frame styles: High-Step (XR) and Step-Through (ST), both made from durable alloy with tasteful matte finishes in Brushed Copper, Charcoal Satin, or Snowstorm White. Full metal fenders and integrated lighting are standard, and optional upgrades like racks and panniers make it a flexible urban workhorse.

At 53 lbs, the LMTD V2 feels solid without being cumbersome. Geometry sits comfortably between upright cruiser and sport commuter, with a 69-degree head tube and 14-inch reach giving it both confidence and agility in traffic.

Ride feel: Smooth, responsive, and surprisingly plush

What separates the LMTD V2 from most hub-motor rivals is the torque sensor—a rare find in this price range. Paired with a 750W AKM rear hub motor (90Nm torque), it delivers smooth, natural-feeling power that scales with your pedalling effort. It’s a marked improvement over cadence-based systems, which can feel either laggy or jerky.

The 100mm Suntour XCM fork is more travel than most commuters need, but it’s a welcome comfort bonus for rough city streets or gravel paths. Add in WTB Groov-E 27.5×2.4” slicks, a suspension seatpost, gel saddle, and lock-on grips, and you’ve got a ride that’s more forgiving than expected for this class.

Power and range: Class 3 performance with commuter-ready stamina

The LMTD V2 supports speeds up to 28mph (pedal assist) and 24mph on throttle, making it a solid Class 3 contender. The 672Wh battery (UL 2271 certified) isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s more than enough for daily rides. Expect 35–60 miles per charge, depending on terrain and power mode.

Charging is straightforward, and while there’s no app or smart integration, the KD218 display offers all the essentials: speed, power output, PAS level, battery life, and trip data. Sometimes simpler is better.

Components: No flash, just function

You’ll find a Shimano Altus 8-speed drivetrain paired with a 12-32T cassette—dependable and adequate for city and suburban terrain. Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors deliver predictable stopping power, while the cockpit(31.8mm riser bar, 45mm stem) feels dialled for upright control without sacrificing responsiveness.

There’s no suspension fork lockout, but unless you’re climbing aggressively, you won’t miss it. And while we wouldn’t call the parts list “premium,” it’s all well-chosen and cohesive.

Final verdict: commuter champion under £1,500

The Ride1Up LMTD V2 isn’t flashy, but that’s precisely its appeal. It’s a thoughtfully built Class 3 commuter that ditches overhyped tech for real-world performance. The torque sensor is a standout feature in this price bracket, delivering a ride feel that’s leagues above many cadence-sensor competitors.

Whether you’re navigating city traffic, breezing through suburbs, or tackling daily errands, the LMTD V2 offers enough comfort, power, and flexibility to become your go-to ride. It’s not a gravel grinder or a high-end touring rig—but it doesn’t pretend to be. What it is, is one of the most well-rounded, high-value commuter e-bikes available in 2025.