Getting ready to buy a Phoenix Paratrooper 7240

[RoyEP3]

Hey guys, first time poster, few months browser of E-S here. I've been doing a lot of research on E-bikes and started off wanting the Prodeco Phantom X2. But then the speed bug got to me and decided that I want the Outlaw SS. I found myself driving my car and slowing down to every scooter and bicycle I see to pace how fast they are going, and I've finally decided that even 28mph is not fast enough for me.

So with research on google, I've landed myself to a thread on here which mentioned the Paratrooper. I did a specific search and it seems there are no personal reviews on this bike, so I'm hesitant to spend the 4k price tag on the 7240 model.

So far, based on my needs, I will list he pros and cons, and hopefully someone help motivate my decision. Here they are, in order of importance.

Pros
1. Folding Frame
2. Speed 45mph

Cons
1. $4k Price
2. Appearance - Battery is bulky and the placement makes it back heavy.

....I guess that wasn't much of a list, but I'm new to the ebike world, and these are my needs for my daily commute. Any opinions on whether or not this is a good bike, or any suggestions of other options that fit my needs? Thanks!

 

[RoyEP3]

Any words of wisdom from the E-S members?

 

[teklektik]

Well - I don't know about words of wisdom, but since this is primarily a DIY forum, here's an alternative approach:

Here is a similar bike with a very nifty battery arrangement.


This is something you could whip up as an alternative. I believe j3tch1u is going to be selling these (although I suspect locally in Taiwan). Since outright purchase instead of DIY building may be your preference, you might PM him and see what he can do for you - either as a complete bike or maybe the unique battery components - the motors, controllers, etc all came from EM3EV (cell_man). If you fab this yourself there is no doubt that you will come in well under the Phoenix price - even buying an off-the-shelf Paratrooper in the US for $850 as a starting point.

 

[Samd]

Those frames sell as a commodity (powered and unpowered) on ebay and aliexpress. It strikes me as very expensive for a cheap frame.
The rotors don't appear to be very big for those speeds.
And the model numbers seem suspiciously in line with Crystalyte HS 3540, 3525 motor designations.

My $0.02

 

[RoyEP3]

Those frames sell as a commodity (powered and unpowered) on ebay and aliexpress. It strikes me as very expensive for a cheap frame.
The rotors don't appear to be very big for those speeds.
And the model numbers seem suspiciously in line with Crystalyte HS 3540, 3525 motor designations.

My $0.02

Can you please link me examples of powered ones that you speak of? And they have a video showing it get up to 52mph.

 

[Samd]

That speed - that'd be the 3540 motor then I guess. Nothing wrong with building your own with that motor.

Put "folding mountain bike" or "dual suspension mountain bike" into aliexpress, you'll see that frame branded as Hummer, BMW, etc etc by the tonne. You'll need to hunt to find the electric options. There's a lot, so I'm not going to do it for you - it's just gone beer time here in Oz!

 

[RoyEP3]

Thanks for the suggestion. Saw some pretty cheap bikes that went over 33mph, but nothing that hit 45mph.

 

[mattrb]

The paratrooper frame over 40mph is not safe.

 

[RoyEP3]

Can you please elaborate? Why is it unsafe over 40mph?

 

[slacker]

for what it's worth l believe 99% of bicycle frame's are not made for going over 40 not to mention brake's,tire's etc.maybe with human power but not motorized.just my opinion.i am sure certain expert's from texas will tell you otherwise.good luck in your quest and enjoy

 

[RoyEP3]

Makes sense Slacker. I can agree with you there. I suppose you just have to compensate for the excess speed and ride responsibly, like with anything else.

Anyway, I think I'm ready to make this purchase now. Electricrider just updated their website and their listed price for the 7240 model is now $3399 instead of $3999. So I'm a bit more comfortable in getting this bike now. Thanks for your help. Will post some reviews when I get it

 

[DAND214]

I tried to reread this post, but did I miss the battery size? AH and voltage.

As posted over 40 is a lot to consider. Not just thinking ahead since things happen without notice. Also posted, tires and brakes as well as to consider the added wieght that is more than a pedal version, so more time to stop when needed.

Dan

 

[Samd]

What other alternatives did you consider Roy? Where are you based?

 

[RoyEP3]

What other alternatives did you consider Roy? Where are you based?

I considered the Prodeco Phantom X2, Outlaw SS, and the Hi-Power cycles, but ultimately I want to stick to a folding frame that can go fast. I am in Las Vegas. Why do you ask?

 

[Samd]

Why do you ask?

Because:
1) your metalanguage makes you seem awfully defensive of that particular bike
2) you have no other posts on a brand new account
3) there have been several instances of late of vendors signing up an account just to pose as customers whilst asking what people think of their bikes.

It could be just coincidence of course...

The most recent was reefbikes.com.au - who keep doing it. An IP address search revealed that the poster had the same IP as the reefbikes server. Ouch.

"Just sayin'"

 

[RoyEP3]

Why do you ask?

Because:
1) your metalanguage makes you seem awfully defensive of that particular bike
2) you have no other posts on a brand new account
3) there have been several instances of late of vendors signing up an account just to pose as customers whilst asking what people think of their bikes.

It could be just coincidence of course...

The most recent was reefbikes.com.au - who keep doing it. An IP address search revealed that the poster had the same IP as the reefbikes server. Ouch.

"Just sayin'"

Really? That's your contribution to this thread?

 

[Samd]

Yep. And just the earlier advice about the frame and brakes being crappy for those speeds, as reinforced by Dan.


What led you, I mean them, to drop the price?

 

[RoyEP3]

Yep. And just the earlier advice about the frame and brakes being crappy for those speeds, as reinforced by Dan.


What led you, I mean them, to drop the price?

Sorry for the tone. I didn't match your name to the above posters. I thought you were just being a troll. I asked "why do you ask" because I was thinking you were seeing if you could offer local assistance or something. No, I am not a vendor.