N※N

I've Cycled for 20 Years and Own 4 Electric Bikesa"This Lightweight One Is Perfect for Travel

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. -this-lightweight-one-is-perfect-for-travel.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Saturday, August 23rd 2025 at 23:16 GMT by Travel + Leisure
          ^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

Priority Current Plus: A Comprehensive Review of the Latest “Future‑Ready” Electric Bike

When the world of electric bicycles began to move beyond the “donut‑only” niche and into mainstream commuting, a handful of brands promised to make the transition as seamless as possible. Priority, an American company known for its affordable and rugged gravel bikes, has been quietly building a reputation for making high‑performance bikes at a fraction of the cost of the industry’s flagship models. Their newest offering – the Priority Current Plus – is a testament to that promise. Below is a deep‑dive review of the Current Plus, summarizing its design philosophy, technical specifications, real‑world performance, and overall value.

1. Design & Build Quality

At first glance, the Priority Current Plus follows the brand’s classic “simple, functional, no‑frills” aesthetic. The frame is a 6061 aluminum alloy that is lightweight yet stiff enough to handle both urban streets and gravel trails. The geometry is geared toward an upright, comfortable riding position, which is a hallmark of Priority’s “Road‑Ready” line. A 20‑inch wheel set with 45‑mm rims keeps the bike’s overall profile low, ensuring it can handle both sharp corners and loose gravel with equal confidence.

The bike’s most eye‑catching feature is its integrated battery. Rather than a bulky, externally mounted pack, the Current Plus places a sleek, 500 Wh lithium‑ion battery in the rear rack space. The battery is secured by a custom‑designed frame‑mount that keeps the bike’s center of gravity low and improves handling. While the battery is fairly large, the bike’s overall weight remains around 31 lbs (14 kg), a competitive figure for a mid‑range e‑bike.

Priority also added a number of “real‑world” touches: a full‑size saddle, a standard Shimano 8‑speed drivetrain (for a blend of familiarity and performance), and a 9‑speed Shimano derailleur to give riders a familiar mechanical experience. The brake system is a pair of 140‑mm disc brakes on both ends, which can be upgraded to hydraulic components if the rider desires extra stopping power.

2. Motor & Performance

The Current Plus is powered by a 500 W, mid‑drive Bosch motor. Bosch has long been a leading name in the e‑bike industry, and its motor is known for delivering a “smooth” feel. The motor is positioned just below the seat tube, giving the bike a balanced feel and protecting the motor from mud and debris. According to Priority’s specifications, the bike can top out at 28 mph (45 km/h) in “Turbo” mode – the highest throttle setting – and delivers 25 mph (40 km/h) in “Eco” mode.

In terms of pedaling assistance, the motor offers a 5‑stage “Torque” sensor that delivers assistance from 0% (manual pedaling only) up to 100% (full motor power). The system uses a “S-curve” algorithm to keep the motor’s torque response predictable, which is a key selling point for riders who prefer a “human‑like” riding feel. The bike also has a 5‑stage cadence sensor that ramps up the assistance as you pedal faster.

One of the most important aspects of any e‑bike is its range, and the Current Plus performs admirably in that area. The battery’s 500 Wh rating translates to roughly 60–70 miles (97–112 km) on a single charge under moderate conditions (average 4‑5 mph on flat terrain). If you push the bike harder (i.e., using the Turbo mode or riding uphill), the range will shrink to around 45–55 miles (72–89 km). These numbers are competitive with many more expensive models on the market.

3. Battery Life & Charging

Priority’s battery is a 500 Wh lithium‑ion pack that can be charged in about 6–8 hours using a standard 240‑V wall outlet (the battery comes with a charger). Priority recommends using the supplied charger and following a “full‑charge before each ride” routine. Battery management is handled by an on‑board controller that displays the remaining charge on a small screen mounted on the handlebar. The screen also displays motor power, speed, and assistance level.

A unique feature of the Current Plus is its “Battery‑Safe” mode. When the battery’s state of charge drops below a predetermined threshold, the motor automatically throttles back to a lower assistance level to extend the ride. This is especially useful on long commutes or when the rider does not have a charging point near their destination.

4. Comfort & Handling

Priority takes comfort seriously, and the Current Plus is no exception. The bike’s frame geometry is designed to minimize vertical oscillations, while the 20‑inch wheel set keeps the bike stable on rough roads. The seat is a full‑size saddle from a reputable brand (such as Brooks or Sella), and the handlebars feature a flat bar with a slightly raised reach to keep the rider’s elbows relaxed.

The bike’s handling is responsive, thanks in part to the mid‑drive motor’s placement. The low center of gravity allows the rider to perform tight turns and navigate traffic with ease. When riding uphill or on loose gravel, the bike’s tire width (25 mm) and moderate camber give it a stable feel without compromising on speed. For riders who prefer a more aggressive stance, the bike’s geometry can be tweaked slightly by swapping out the standard seatpost or handlebar.

5. Value & Pricing

Priority’s Current Plus is positioned in the mid‑range segment, with a retail price of $1,399 (USD). When you compare that price point to other mid‑size e‑bikes that feature a 500 W motor and a 500 Wh battery, the Current Plus is highly competitive. Most comparable models are priced in the $1,800–$2,200 range, often with less advanced components.

Priority also offers a 12‑month warranty on the battery and motor, and a 3‑year warranty on the frame. This extended coverage is a welcome feature for buyers who may be hesitant to invest in a more expensive model. The company’s commitment to after‑sales support is evident from their website’s dedicated “Support” section, where buyers can access parts, repair guides, and a customer service portal.

6. Verdict

The Priority Current Plus is a well‑engineered electric bike that manages to combine affordability with high‑quality components. Its design prioritizes a smooth ride, comfortable ergonomics, and a manageable weight – all without sacrificing performance. The integrated battery, Bosch mid‑drive motor, and robust build quality make it an attractive option for commuters, casual riders, and gravel enthusiasts alike.

If you’re on the lookout for a reliable e‑bike that can handle both city traffic and weekend adventures without breaking the bank, the Priority Current Plus is an excellent choice. It delivers on its promise of “future‑ready” performance, and its value proposition – under $1,500 for a top‑tier motor and battery – is hard to beat in today’s market.