When it comes to electric bikes, there’s a growing trend towards powerful and fast “muscle e-bikes,” and the Prodeco Outlaw SS is one that definitely stands out in this category. This article explores the key features, performance, and overall experience of the Prodeco Outlaw SS electric bike.
From its impressive specifications to its striking appearance and notable price point, this e-bike is designed to appeal to riders seeking a thrilling and high-powered experience.
Power, Speed, and Attitude: The Prodeco Outlaw SS
The Prodeco Outlaw SS is an e-bike that makes a statement. It boasts big power, impressive speed, substantial size (including handlebars, fork, and tires), and even a bit of attitude. One of the first things you’ll notice is its eye-catching candy orange color, guaranteed to turn heads wherever you go.
Electrically speaking, the Outlaw SS is equipped with a potent 750-watt direct-drive rear hub motor. Paired with a 51.2-volt 9-amp hour lithium iron phosphate battery pack, this e-bike can reach speeds of up to 28 mph using the throttle alone. Yes, you read that right—28 mph of pure electric power. This level of speed and power clearly sets the Prodeco Outlaw SS apart from your typical electric bike.
However, it’s essential to note that the Outlaw SS, with its impressive 28 mph throttle-only capability, does not adhere to the conventional electric bike guidelines for street legality. Typical e-bikes are limited to 750 watts of power and a top speed of 20 mph when using the throttle alone. As a result, Prodeco classifies the Outlaw SS as an off-road-only electric bike.
Given this off-road designation, it’s essential to understand what it’s like to ride off-road. Most mountain bike trails, for example, do not permit motorized vehicles due to shared usage with hikers and equestrians. The Outlaw SS is ideally suited for dirt roads and motorcycle/ATV trails.
Another option could involve registering the bike as a moped and obtaining the appropriate insurance. However, it’s important to acknowledge the potential risks of riding an electric bike at high speeds on public roads, especially if it isn’t officially registered as a moped. Other road users might not expect a bicycle to move so swiftly, making it crucial to exercise caution and prioritize safety.
It’s worth mentioning that Prodeco offers two other Outlaw models, the SE and EX, which are designed for street legality, adhering to the 20 mph speed limit.
Big and Bold: The Ride Experience
As the Prodeco Outlaw SS is notably larger and more powerful than the average e-bike, it comes with a riding experience to match. The e-bike’s tall double-crown 140mm travel suspension fork, laid-back frame geometry, and wide handlebars make it ideal for cruising. This setup not only provides a commanding presence on the road but also effectively absorbs bumps and rough terrain. It’s also important to note that, due to the rigid aluminum frame, a suspension seat post could be a valuable addition to improve overall ride comfort.
Riding an e-bike at 28 mph is undeniably thrilling, but it can also be a safety concern. Respecting the speed and being vigilant about what’s ahead is crucial to safe riding. Thankfully, the Prodeco Outlaw SS is equipped with powerful Avid Elixir 5 hydraulic disc brakes featuring 200mm rotors, which deliver impressive stopping power. This isn’t your typical bike riding experience; it’s something that appeals to those who crave speed and excitement.
To control this high-powered e-bike, the Prodeco Outlaw SS is equipped with a thumb throttle instead of a twist grip, a choice made with safety in mind. The thumb throttle allows riders to maintain a full grip on the handlebars at high speeds, enhancing stability and control.
While the Prodeco Outlaw SS excels at cruising streets and tackling dirt roads, it might not be the best choice for tight, twisty, and rough trails due to its laid-back geometry and the placement of the battery pack on the rear rack. However, it’s important to remember that this e-bike wasn’t designed for such terrain; its strengths lie in providing a high-speed, high-power experience.
Putting It to the Test: Real-World Performance
To assess the Prodeco Outlaw SS thoroughly, it was subjected to a series of tests across various terrains, including hills, flats, traffic conditions, and challenging winds. The results provide a clear picture of the e-bike’s real-world performance.
Range: Over a 15.6-mile journey with approximately 1,300 feet of elevation gain and loss, the Prodeco Outlaw SS demonstrated impressive range. Keep in mind that these results were achieved with light pedaling, and the rider weighed 190 lbs. The bike is equipped with a 51.2-volt 9-amp hour battery pack (460-watt hours) and a 750-watt motor (peaking at 1,200 watts), offering a robust combination that contributes to its substantial range. It’s essential to remember that riding conditions can significantly impact range, with factors such as pedal assistance, rider weight, speed, and terrain all playing a role.
Speed: The Prodeco Outlaw SS is no slouch when it comes to speed. With a throttle-only top speed of 28 mph, it’s ideal for riders who crave velocity and power. Even when faced with steep hills, the motor effectively assists in maintaining speed. For particularly challenging inclines, some pedal assistance may be needed. The ability to tackle hills with ease adds to the overall versatility of this e-bike.
Weight: The Prodeco Outlaw SS has a weight of 62 lbs. The distribution of this weight is somewhat back-heavy due to the direct-drive rear hub motor and the positioning of the battery pack on the rear rack. This configuration can make the bike feel a bit unsteady at lower speeds or when maneuvering it on stairs, for example.
Pros and Cons: What You Need to Know
The Prodeco Outlaw SS presents a compelling mix of advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:
- Exceptional Price: Priced at $2,199, the Prodeco Outlaw SS offers a remarkable value proposition. High-quality components from renowned brands like SRAM, Avid, Truvativ, and Continental Tires are included at an affordable price.
- Speed and Power: With a top speed of 28 mph and a 750-watt motor (peaking at 1,200 watts), the Prodeco Outlaw SS is an e-bike for thrill-seekers who appreciate speed and power. While it’s fun to ride at this velocity, it’s essential to exercise responsibility when using such high-speed e-bikes.
- Impressive Disc Brakes: The Avid Elixir 5 hydraulic disc brakes, equipped with 200mm rotors, provide exceptional stopping power, which is particularly important when riding at high speeds. These brakes are complemented by comfortable and easily accessible brake levers.
- Quality Tires: The Prodeco Outlaw SS features rugged 2.4-inch wide Continental Trail King tires with an aggressive knobby tread. These tires offer excellent grip and stability on various terrains.
- Solid Drivetrain: The e-bike boasts a predominantly SRAM drivetrain, including the shifter, derailleur, and cranks. SRAM is renowned for its crisp and reliable shifting, making it a solid choice for this e-bike.
- Suspension Fork: The 140mm travel suspension fork with a 20mm thru axle enhances the bike’s ability to handle rough terrain. It contributes to the bike’s robust appearance and helps absorb shocks and bumps.
- Comfortable Grips and Saddle: The Prodeco Outlaw SS comes with leather lock-on grips and a Brooks-style leather saddle, adding a touch of class and comfort to the ride.
- Assembled in the USA: All Prodeco bikes are assembled at the company’s facility in Pompano Beach, Florida, ensuring attention to quality and customer support.
Cons:
- Battery Placement: For an off-road-oriented e-bike like the Prodeco Outlaw SS, it would be preferable to have the battery mounted lower and more centrally on the frame to enhance handling and stability. While the rear rack can accommodate the battery, it may impact the bike’s balance and maneuverability.
- Suspension Fork Stiffness: The suspension fork can be somewhat stiff, which may not be ideal for lighter riders. Adjusting the fork’s spring load could provide a better fit for varying rider weights.
- Motor Noise: While not overly loud, the motor does generate some noise. While it’s not as quiet as a Bionx motor, it isn’t as noisy as a typical geared hub motor. Most riders will adapt to the sound, but noise-sensitive individuals should be aware of this characteristic.
Conclusion: The Prodeco Outlaw SS—a Thrilling “Muscle” E-Bike
In summary, the Prodeco Outlaw SS is what one might call a “muscle” e-bike. It embodies the essence of power, speed, and performance while delivering an exciting and unconventional riding experience. If you’re in search of a laid-back off-road cruiser with a solid component spec at an attractive price point, the Prodeco Outlaw SS deserves your consideration.
It’s worth acknowledging that while this e-bike offers numerous advantages, it may not be perfect for every rider or every type of terrain. As with any product, there are areas where it could be improved, such as battery placement and fork suspension stiffness. However, the Prodeco team actively addresses some of these concerns by installing additional struts on the rear rack, which has proven to enhance stability.
Riding the Prodeco Outlaw SS is a unique experience, and it caters to those who seek both exhilaration and versatility in their electric bike journeys. While this review offers insights from a short-term test, long-term durability and reliability are also essential factors to consider when choosing an e-bike. If you’re a proud owner of the Prodeco Outlaw SS or have any input on its long-term performance, please feel free to share your experiences in the comments below.
The Prodeco Outlaw SS is available for $2,199, offering a compelling combination of speed, power, and value. You can find it at Prodeco Technologies dealers or conveniently purchase it online. Whether you have questions or insights to share about the Prodeco Outlaw SS, we encourage you to join the discussion in the comment section below.
With His expertise, He guides readers through the benefits of electric bikes, maintenance tips, and exciting e-bike adventures. Edwin’s writing is all about promoting sustainable, fun, and accessible ways to navigate our world, and He believes e-bikes are a key part of this movement.
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