Let's address the main difference between the RipCurrent and RipCurrent S right as we start this review. The RipCurrent model came out first in 2019, and the RipCurrent S could be considered an update to an otherwise solid electric bike.
These bikes can both serve as your daily commuter, but they are produced for more than that - even some cross country rides.
If you need support during the working week and the relaxing weekend, the RipCurrent and the S are the ideal picks!
The price tag on the RipCurrent is $1,799, which is somewhat affordable, especially compared to the RipCurrent S, which costs quite a few hundred more at $2,299.
If the price is a deciding factor, we’d certainly advise you to pick the RipCurrent, and if you’re looking for stronger specs and parts, pick the S!
Frame
Both bikes have a sporty appearance, which is something you could appreciate - it’s a great look on anyone.
The RipCurrent S has a back rack installed, so if you need the electric bike for the ride to the office each morning, it’s good to know you have a place where to put your briefcase.
The RipCurrent is equipped with an adjustable coil suspension fork, so it offers a safe-enough feeling for all kinds of rides.
The RipCurrent S goes an extra mile here since it has coil suspension and hydraulic lockout fork - creating an extra safe and extra comfortable ride.
The frame has upright, high rise handlebars to get the optimal grip and back position. They are adjustable so your back doesn’t suffer when you’re out for a long ride.
The saddle is wide and comfortable to eliminate the possibility of sore muscles when stuck in traffic. Furthermore, wheels are aluminum to achieve an ultra-lightweight feel when you’re out for a stroll.
Gear shifter
The thumb throttle is a must-have on pretty much all e-bikes. The gear shifter is a Shimano 9 Speed cassette drivetrain on the RipCurrent as well as the RipCurrent S.
They are each packed with 9 gears, which is more than most e-bikes in this price range.
Tires
It’s easy to make a mistake when you’re buying your first electric bike.
Tires are one of the top things to keep in mind as they determine if your bike is ready for a variety of rides or it’s suitable for city rides only.
Luckily, this is one of the things you needn’t worry about both of these bikes.
They are certainly ready for all kinds of rides, even some dirt biking can be done with these bad boys.
RipCurrent and the RipCurrent S are equipped with extra-large 26” x 4” wide Kenda tires - so they form a comfortable ride, absorbing the vibrations from the pavement.
With these wide tires, a pothole or country roads are just a small challenge!
Engine
Both the RipCurrent and the RipCurrent S are equipped with a strong, 750-Watt Bafang hub motor, which is somewhat the average motor on all electric bikes.
The maximum speed of 28 mph is a synonym for Juiced Bikes, while most e-bike companies have a slower top speed than that.
Brakes
One of the most important things to keep in mind when riding an electric vehicle is the quality of the brakes.
These types of vehicles have a strong throttle, so it’s principal that they are accompanied by strong brakes that ensure safety during city rides.
Juiced Bikes know this, which is why they installed reliable 180mm hydraulic disc brakes on each of these bikes. Strong braking is a piece of cake with these brakes!
Battery
The only solid and crucial difference between the RipCurrent and its update is the cell range. The RipCurrent has a 13Ah battery which offers a range of 40+ miles.
The RipCurrent S delivers more juice with its 19.2Ah battery, as it can go 70+ miles on a full charge.
If you cannot decide between the two, think about how many miles you ride each day and week.
Having a larger range is more reliable and it leaves you worry-free when you’re off somewhere.
Key features
One option everyone wants to have for their bike is customization.
It’s always good to know you can choose the color of your bike - and the RipCurrent S offers exactly that, as you can pick this bike in three different colors: red, white, and black.
However, the RipCurrent bike is available only in black color.
Moreover, a key feature of these fat tire bikes is that they can be ridden pretty much anywhere. The Kenda tires can withstand even mountain biking.
The LCD is tiny but large enough that you can see all numbers clearly and keep up with anything that might have changed.
On the display, you can see the battery level and voltage, the current trip distance, speed, watts provided by the engine, and the pedal-assist mode.
There are five levels of pedal assist: 1, 2, 3, Eco, and Sport. Eco is an amazing mode since it can prolong your range by a few miles!
There is also a feature on the LCD called cruise control. It keeps you rolling at the speed you preset whether you’re pedaling or not!
There is also a speed limiter you can preset to make sure you’re not violating the legal limit when you’re out for a ride.
RipCurrentS pros and cons
PROS
Cons
Conclusion
In conclusion, the RipCurrent and the RipCurrent S are both great electrical vehicles. They offer more than their price range, especially top speed-wise.
Otherwise similar models, they mostly differ in small tweaks and details that justify the $500 higher price of the S model. That is, besides the 30+ mile range difference.
The RipCurrent is a decent bike for an affordable price, but if you’re looking for a bike that will go the extra mile literally, the RipCurrent S is most likely the bike you should go for.
If you're in other bike models of similar quality, check out our Juiced Bikes All-in-One Review, where we take a look at and compare some of the many great models they have to offer!
These two bikes may look and feel the same at the first glance, there’s no doubt about it. Both are a top option for any kind of mountaineering or errand-running. But, if you’re looking for a bike that offers a little more than just that, you’ll invest in the RipCurrent S over the RipCurrent!
Juiced Bikes RipCurrent & RipCurrentS
OUR RATING - 90/100
Extraordinary comfort and a variety of rides combined