With the introduction of its newest model, the Priority Glide, a lightweight, fuss-free e-bike that makes belt drive simple for everyone, New York-based Priority Bicycles is moving in the opposite direction in a market full of complex technology, extremely high torque specs, and smartphone apps to control an e-bike.
The Glide, which was shown yesterday, seems to be designed for riders who prefer a low-maintenance, streamlined electric bike free of complicated mechanical details and scary menus.
It adheres to the same strategy that has come to characterise Priority Bicycles: introducing expensive bikes that are meant to require very little maintenance but are priced far below the sticker shock of the average bike shop.
This particular electric bike, which has an MSRP of $1,799 plus a $400 launch offer until August 4 (discount code RIDEAGLIDE), is also among the most reasonably priced models available. It has an internally geared rear hub gearbox and a Gates Carbon Drive belt system. Although they are often single-speed bikes, we have previously seen inexpensive belt-drive e-bikes.
In addition to the highly praised maintenance-free Gates carbon belt drive system, the Priority Glide also comes with the equally maintenance-free Nexus 3 rear hub gearbox, which eliminates the need for a derailleur for easier, cleaner and hassle-free shifting, even while stopping.
The Glide fits beneath Priority’s current E-Classic Plus while preserving the brand’s distinctive features, which include straight lines, no grease, and classic lines. For a simpler step-over design, the frame incorporates a dropped top tube, which balances conventional geometry with convenient on-off access. The commuter-friendly package includes dual-piston hydraulic disc brakes on 180mm rotors, 700c x 38mm tyres that are puncture-resistant, a double centre kickstand for stable upright parking, front and rear LED lights, full composite fenders, and a thumb throttle. It is made to be easy to ride with either pedal assist or throttle operation.
With two frame sizes and a maximum payload of 300 lb (136 kg), the Glide is made to accommodate a variety of riders. Additionally, it aims to accommodate a variety of tastes with its two colour options, which are blue and black.
A 350W front hub motor and a 374Wh detachable battery that is concealed in the downtube power the Glide. The bike can achieve a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph (32 km/h) with their combined assistance. The stated range is 20 miles (32 km) when using the throttle and up to 60 miles (96 km) when using pedal assistance.
For short daily commutes, errands, or neighbourhood rides, this arrangement should be sufficient despite its moderate power. One of the few sub-50-pound direct-to-consumer e-bikes available today, the bike weighs under 49 lb (22.2 kg) thanks to its smaller motor and battery.
The somewhat smaller battery should last a little longer with the lower power motor, offering a slight but manageable boost. When not using the direct-to-consumer e-bikes, riders can select from three different pedal assist levels, and the Shimano Nexus 3-speed internal hub keeps shifting smooth. When a rider forgets to downshift after a fast segment (which seems to happen at least once a week to me), they can shift while standing still, which is one of the best benefits of an internally geared rear hub.
The fact that there is no derailleur to adjust, no chain to lubricate (because of the belt drive), and no excessively complex electronic shifting is, of course, the second main benefit of internally geared hubs. Simply get on, cruise, and press the throttle if you want to cheat a slope.
“Riding should be easy, fun, and something people look forward to every day,” stated Connor Swegle, CMO and co-founder of Priority. “With the Glide, we hope to eliminate the obstacles that prevent more people from riding, such as difficult maintenance, scary technology, or large designs.”
It’s refreshing to see a company embrace the basic joy of riding in a world full of expensive carbon-framed fancy bikes and torque monsters that can lay down a rubber snake in the bike lane. The Priority Glide isn’t meant to win drag races or traverse mountain ranges. It’s a sleek, useful, and user-friendly ride made especially for people who want an electric bike that feels and looks like a regular bike without requiring the same upkeep. And at this price, it’s difficult not to be impressed with components like a Shimano Nexus 3, excellent hydraulic brakes, and a Gates belt drive.