ezee liv or wisper 705e?

[Sasha]

I previously asked for any advice on folding bikes but although the info was great none of the bikes seemed to quite measure up as far as performance is concerned so am now considering fitting a bike rack and going for the full size option. I am looking at step thru frames suitable for a shorty (5'2") with a fairly upright riding position. I want something with reasonable capabilities as far as distance and hill climbing are concerned plus being able to occassionally tow the mut in his trailer. I did test ride the ezee liv a couple of months ago and it seemed ok but it has subsequently fairly dramatically increased in price meaning that there are now other bikes in a similar price range - particularly the wisper 705e. Does anyone know how these 2 compare or are there others I should be considering? Is there anywhere where it is possible to test ride a 705e (I live in Northamptonshire). Also I have seen that the 705Se is due out sometime. How will this compare to the 705e and when will it be available?
I've probably got loads more questions but I think that's probably enough for now.
many thanks
Sasha

 

[fishingpaul]

A powabyke shopper with 24in wheels, would probably suit your height,they are rather heavy though,but can be bought cheap second hand, an inexpensive way to try electric biking,batteries are only about £100,the ezee liv sounds a very good bike,but new batteries cost around £300, the old batteries seemed unreliable,but i think the new bikes come with a new battery, which hopefully will be more reliable,the wisper 705e is one of the lighter electric bikes,and you may be able to get one cheap as they have been selling off stock,check the bikes for sale on this forum,however there have been reports of poor quality parts needing replacement on these bikes,the new 905se will probably cost around £1100 to £1200 and is said to be of better quality.

 

[flecc]

Hello Sasha. I don't think we have any 705e owners, and I've never ridden one. I think it would be best if you spoke with or mailed David Miall of Wisper for more information on the new model, and he may be able to arrange a trial ride for you.

Here's the contact page.

You've tried the Liv so you know about that. The step over is rather high on that, and I don't know how you managed with that feature? It was certainly a bargain price at it's introduction, £545 at first, then £595 when the Li-ion battery replaced the NiMh, and difficult to know how it could be that, but after two further increases it does seem dear. It's probably a realistic price though, if compared with the £995 for the similar Sprint model they did.
.

 

[frank9755]

I don't believe the Wisper 705e has yet made it to these shores. I'm sure David can confirm either way.

Frank

 

[fishingpaul]

Sorry sasha i confused the 905e with the 705e,if you are looking to spend £1000+ how about the kalkhoff,however unless you are sure an electric bike is really for you, i would look at a second hand to start with,the classifieds are full of used two or three times bikes needing new homes,at a fraction of the new price.although a lot of us are hooked on ebikes,many people find them dissapointing,a bit like marmite you will either love it or hate it.

 

[Sasha]

Many thanks for your advice I will follow up on the suggestions and let you know how I get on - and probably come up with more questions along the way if that's ok.

 

[fishingpaul]

Yes ask away we would rather see you happy with something that suits you,than to keep quiet and buy something unsuitable for your needs.