California-based Retrospec adds two e-bikes to its cargo-carrying lineup — the Roo Rev and Roo Rev XL. Both bikes see the same drive unit, the same battery, lights, and features. So, what is the big difference?
A “big” difference is precisely what the brand that made Grateful Dead bikes had in mind. The Roo Rev XL has twice the carrying capacity of its younger sibling.
Retrospec Roo Rev Offerings
Whether it is getting your kids to school or groceries home from the farmers’ market, Retrospec has just made things easier. Both bikes — the Roo Rev and Roo Rev XL — feature the same hydroformed aluminum frame, drive unit, and components. The difference lies in the Roo Rev XL’s longer rear end.
While Retrospec doesn’t give an exact size difference (or any geometry chart for that matter) on the two bikes’ rear triangles, a side-by-side photo sums it up. The longer rear end on the Roo Rev XL, along with the larger rear rack, nearly doubles the carrying capacity. The smaller rear rack on the Roo Rev can handle 60lbs, while the XL can take a 119lb load.
The racks have space and places to attach baskets, panniers, or child carriers such as the Thule Yepp 2 Maxi. The Roo Rev can accommodate one such seat, while the Roo Rev XL has room for two.
Both bikes have a total weight limit of 400lbs.
They also use the same drive unit and battery. Retrospec has chosen a 750W planetary geared hub motor paired with a 700Wh removable battery. Both Roo Revs have the battery located behind the seattube. It is removable and can be charged on or off the bike, with an estimated charge time of 5-6 hours.
Both bikes see an Ananda Complete E-System screen and controls. The screen mounts to the middle of the handlebars with control buttons like throttle (class 2 e-bike), modes, lights, and turn signals near the brake levers.
Retrospec claims up to 75 miles per charge. Obviously, this will depend on how much weight you are carrying, the route you are riding, and the mode you’re in.
Roo Rev Details
Retrospec tried to balance performance with affordability with the new Roo Rev and Roo Rev XL. Both e-cargo bikes see the same components, aside from the larger rear rack on the Roo Rev XL.
- Fork: ZOOM 80mm travel, preload adjustment and lock-out
- Rims: 20″ double-wall aluminum 36H, for disc brake
- Tires: 20×3″ CST Big Boat; 60TPI with puncture protection
- Motor: 750W Peak 1150W 85Nm torque
- Battery: 700Wh/48VLG 21700 cells; Charge on or off bike, UART BMS
- Derailleur: 7-speed Shimano Altus
- Shifter: 7-speed Shimano Tourney
- Cassette: Shimano 7-speed 14-34T
- Brakes: Tektro Hydraulic, e-bike specific rotors (180mm F/203mm R), semi-metallic pads
- Roo Rev weight: 71 lbs (battery included)
- Roo Rev XL weight: 72 lbs (battery included)
The Roo Rev retails for $1,899.99, and the Roo Rev XL retails for $1,999.99.
