The subject of ride quality is less measurable than the performance highlighted by our previous test sections, but it is no less important. We use the term to encompass all aspects of the bike that contribute to its feel and operation. Overall, the Vika X’s ride quality was excellent, but let us break down the details below.
As with most folding e-bikes, the Vika X is offered in a single frame size with a wide range of accommodation for riders of different heights. Blix advertises the bike as suitable for those from 4’10” to 6’2”; it features 12” of adjustment in saddle height and 6” in handlebar height to adapt to its rider’s size and preferred riding position.
At 5’11”, I am near the top of the bike’s recommended height range. The bike fit me well with room to spare; I had great leg extension and a comfortable handlebar height with a roomy-but-not-too-stretched reach. The bike’s saddle and grips felt cushy and enjoyable to use for long periods of time.
Due to its torque sensor, the ride experience felt natural and responsive. The bike’s handling was quick and had an airy quality that I attribute to its low weight and minimalistic frame. Bumps were noticeable due to the absence of a suspension, but the bike’s 20×2.4” tires provided stability, grip, maneuverability, and a small bit of cushion.
One tradeoff of the light frame to be aware of is the Vika’s somewhat modest payload capacity. At 312 lbs, it is still substantial but somewhat less than we have seen on some other recent folding e-bikes.
Pedaling felt natural and responsive due to the bike’s torque sensor, especially in its low assist settings. I appreciated the Vika’s ease of use; many bikes overcomplicate the PAS with too many assist settings, but Blix opted instead for three simple manual modes and an Auto mode.
The latter is part of the Vika X’s suite of high-tech features that include a color display with Bluetooth connectivity and an electronic shifting system. The bike’s control panel (on the left handlebar) includes a button to shuffle through PAS settings and levers for shifting gears. For clarity, the system is still cable-actuated at the derailleur.
When riding in Auto mode, the bike adjusts its power delivery and can shift gears based on the rider’s targeted power/cadence (both set through the Blix Connect app). I found the system very cool, though it did not seem to downshift properly; our contact at Blix advised us that the system would receive regular updates (every six mos) to improve functionality.
The bike also includes a control module on the right handlebar next to a half-twist throttle. The larger module operates the bike’s lights (with low and high beams), rear turn signals (integrated into the MIK-HD cargo rack), and its electronic horn. I appreciated all of these features, as I think they make sense on e-bikes, but they are not often present.
Regarding its folding ability, the Vika X is also highly effective. As with most bikes of this style, it features a telescoping/collapsible stem and a central hinge in its down tube, allowing the bike to effectively fold in half. This process was quick and smooth. We liked that Blix included a magnet to keep the bike together once folded.
Overall, we give the Vika X two thumbs up in ride quality!
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