2020 BESV PSF1 Review

Video Review

Written Review

The BESV PSF1 electric bike is a refined, purpose-built urban folder with an extremely lightweight frame, high-end components and a killer look.

The BESV PSF1 is indeed an exceptional folder, and was actually awarded the Taiwan Excellence 2020 Award — a prestigious title given only to the most innovative Taiwanese companies and products. This is the first time the PSF1 has won this award, but BESV has actually collected seven additional awards over the years. The Taiwan Excellence Award may not be very well known in the North America, but it’s still an impressive accomplishment reminiscent of the CES Innovation Awards Program.

Power — 250 nominal watts

The BESV PSF1 electric bike has a 250 nominal watt hub motor in the rear wheel. The motor is powerful enough to get a rider up to top speed in a few seconds and is great for assisting with acceleration and moderate hill climbs. This motor is also efficient, which means it will be slowly sipping juice from the battery compared to more powerful motors. 

Speed  — 20 mph

The BESV PSF1 electric bike has a top speed of 20 mph, which can be reached using the pedal assist, making this a Class 1 electric bike. 

Battery and Range — 36 volt 10.5 ah, 35 miles

The BESV PSF1 electric bike runs on a 36 volt system and has a 10.5 ah battery for an estimated max range of 35 miles with pedal assist. The battery is locking and removable, and fits neatly into the frame for for a streamlined, under-the-radar look. The location of the battery also helps keep the PSF1 well balanced. 

Pedal assist sensor — Torque sensor

The BESV PSF1 electric bike is equipped with a torque sensor that measures the pressure placed on the cranks. This sensor is highly responsive and has virtually zero latency for motor activation and deactivation. The torque sensor is a beautiful touch and really helps it to feel like the bike is working with you as opposed to for you. This is thanks largely in part to the fact that torque sensors allow for many degrees of “on” whereas a cadence sensor can only be “on” or “off.” 

Display — LCD

The BESV PSF1 electric bike has an LCD display on the middle of the handlebars that includes pertinent information including speed, distance, pedal assist level, battery level, performance stats and quite a bit more. This display is quite small and a bit dim, making it a little difficult to see in direct sunlight. 

Frame and weight — 6061 Aluminum alloy, 40 pounds

The BESV PSF1 electric bike has one frame size and weighs in at nearly 40 pounds, quite a bit lighter than most electric bikes. The frame design also makes it extremely easy to place both feet on the ground when at a stop, and since the frame is one solid piece, the wires can be internally routed. The solid-frame construction also offers increased durability compared to folding frames. When done riding, the wheel and handlebars can be folded in half in a few seconds, and the bike can be easily rolled in front of you even when folded.

Suspension —  rear, 20 mm of travel

The BESV PSF1 electric bike has rear suspension with 20 mm of travel. The suspension on the PSF1 is great for smoothing out rough roads, but it shouldn’t be used for serious off-road use.

Gearing — Shimano Altus, 7-speed 

The BESV PSF1 electric bike has a Shimano Altus 7-speed derailleur with trigger shifters. The gearing here feels exactly right, and it’s nice to see this upgraded component given the price point.

Brakes — Promax, mechanical disc

The BESV PSF1 electric bike has front and rear mechanical disc brakes with 160 mm rotors. These breaks offer plenty of stopping power, but it would be nice to see hydraulic disc brakes here and also motor inhibitors. 

Warranty — 5 year frame, 2 year battery and electronics, 1 year parts 

The BESV PSF1 electric bike has a 5 year warranty for the frame, 2 year for the battery and electronics and 1 year for the parts. Overall, this is a superb warranty.

Price — Starting at $2,499

Starting at $2,499, the BESV PSF1 electric bike creeps into the high-tier category of electric bikes. It’s definitely a big expense, but this electric bike is unique in many ways and for the most part feels like it justifies the price tag.

Who’s it for — Urban commuters with limited space

This feels like a good choice for those who don’t mind spending some money on a longterm commuting investment. The BESV PSF1 excels at urban commuting and is especially practical for those who don’t have much space to store their electric bikes, and for those who want to bring their ride in with them when they get to where they’re going. The BESV PSF1 isn’t cheap, but it offers a lot cool features and is one of the best looking electric bikes on the market.