MOD Berlin Step-Thru 3

While shopping for my first ebike I had focused on addressing several requirements. I live here in sunny Florida where there are generally well paved roads and few hills. So even though I am retired, I limited my search to Commuter bikes. I was also looking for a bike that would allow me to ride in an upright position comfortably for extended periods. I also wanted a powerful rear hub motor with a torque sensor and decent battery range. Finally, I wanted to avoid excess weight as much as possible to facilitate transport as well as to increase maneuverability.

I have had the bike for 2 weeks now and I can categorically say that the Mod Bikes Berlin 3 has met and clearly exceeded these requirements. What’s more the Berlin 3 delivers on these features in very innovative ways. Careful forethought in its design is clearly evident throughout. For instance, a frequently overlooked aspect is that the Berlin is a “29er”, that is, the wheel diameter is an impressive 29”. These larger wheels soak up road bumps better than standard 26” wheels. It achieves this without the need for complicated frame suspension equipment thus keeping weight to a minimum. And the EXA suspension seat post and fork, both capable of 40mm of travel, keeps the ride incredibly smooth while delivering this performance in a compact package. Clever indeed!

Power delivery is as smooth as silk with the 750w rear hub motor. I understand that the internal gears are enhanced with metal to provide reliable performance and extend the life of the motor. A very nice feature!

The display is easy to read and is quite intuitive. I particular like the 5 pedal assistance mode which had been configured. I start my ride on “Fit” but gradually advance to “Eco”. All controls are easily accessible and are logically laid out. And I love the fact that it syncs with the Lumos Ultra helmet. This innovative headgear provides a very visible display of signals which readily communicates rider intentions enhancing safety. Another brilliant feature!

Quality permeates the build. The frame does not exhibit flex and provides a firm platform for riding which instills confidence. The 52T drive gear delivers plenty of power and shifting is a breeze. While ride the level highways and byways of SW Florida the ride is virtually silent. Even the humble kickstand exudes premium quality.

The battery is partially integrated into the frame making is easy to install and remove. Charging takes about 7 hours which is as advertised. I have not recorded my range yet but will do over the coming weeks.

Did I mention style? The charcoal black matte finish is very distinctive and is nicely accented by the faux leather seat and handlebar grips. The Berlin is a big bike yet is not overpowering. While being only 5’6” I can mount and dismount with ease.
Being located over 1,000 miles away from the Mod Bikes HQ I was at first concerned about support. However, I discovered the support staff to be readily available and very willing to help. I like that they took ownership of my technical issue and set up video calls to walk me through a resolution (I had a minor issue with aligning the front brake caliper…this was quickly resolved in a single session). I was really impressed that the support team followed up with me to ensure that the issue had been resolved to my complete satisfaction. Impressive!

My only gripe is the suggested placement of the Foldy Lock on the seat post makes it difficult to mount and dismount. To solve this, I installed it on the mounting posts provided on the frame.

I am thoroughly delighted with my purchase. The quality, ease of use, performance and price(!) of this exceptional ebike makes it easy to recommend to friends and family. I am very pleased to be a member of the “Mod Squad”.

Ride on!

Let me begin confessing my age. I’m 78. I have been riding a bicycle since I was a child well over seven decades. And those 7 decades I have had a multitude of Bikes, been to many bicycle repair shops, had many flat tires, etc. So I’m speaking from the voice of experience when I say the guys at mod bikes are the best! Hands-down, they are the best ever! I do not say this gratuitously at all. This is the voice of experience speaking. They even help me do that computer thing with Austin Energy to get my $600 rebate. Now that’s above and beyond the call of duty! I had wasted hours trying to do that myself and took it into frustration. Bless their hearts. They had it done within five minutes. Thank you guys for everything.

The quality of the Berlin 3 is worth the price. The bike is perfect for my needs which is to get out along the Rhode Island waters and enjoy the fresh air and views. Riding the Berlin 3 has been exceptional and highly recommend to anyone looking for a nice ride that's both ascetically appealing and adaptable to suit your needs.

I truly love my MOD Bikes experience. The staff has been very friendly and the bike itself has far exceeded my expectation. In the first two weeks, I've already ridden 100 miles and expect to add many, many more in the months to come.

I particularly appreciated having the opportunity to customize my bike with new handlebar paddles, saddle bag, lock and helmet. I wasn't sure at the time, but they have made a huge difference in my experience out in the field -- I couldn't imagine going back to a U-lock or putting all my items in a backpack again.

Further, sales staff helped me to navigate the City of Austin e-bike rebate process, showed me how to turn on the headlights (yep, I was really that new to the world of e-bikes), and gave me a neat tool to sync up with my electric helmet to add flashing indicator lights. Even with customization, my e-bike cost me the same amount as my analog bike did back in 2005 (after the rebate)! I couldn't be happier and I couldn't recommend MOD Bike more strongly.

If you have been on the fence, now is the time to act.

Mod Berlin 3