In the growing world of e-bikes, the Async A1 Pro truly stands out, thanks to its unique design and powerful components. The first thing you’ll notice is its distinct aluminum frame that looks unlike anything else out there.
Once you get past the looks, regardless of whether you love or are unsure about its design, you’ll discover that the Async A1 Pro is packed with high-power features. It’s got a robust motor and a large battery, providing a longer range than many other electric bikes. While it may resemble a stretched-out mailbox on wheels, it’s surprisingly comfortable to ride.
The A1 Pro’s striking design is not just for show; it’s very functional. The frame, which looks like a mailbox post adorned with Async arrow graphics, houses the battery and controller, and encloses the mono-shock in its vertical section. You can get the A1 Pro in two-tone silver and black or silver and orange, the latter being the color shown in this review.
When it comes to performance, the A1 Pro doesn’t disappoint. It has lots of power for quick acceleration and enough torque to handle steep hills and rough terrain. Its rear hub motor delivers 1,200 watts of continuous power and peaks at 2,500 watts, with 100 Newton meters of torque. You can easily hit and maintain a speed of 28 mph in class 3 mode, which is the fastest legal speed on public roads in most states. You can even switch to off-road mode using the display controls to go faster on private roads.
The bike’s energy comes from a 48-volt 40AH lithium-ion battery with a whopping 1,920 watt-hours of capacity. The range is impressive, between 50 to 88 miles on a full charge using just the throttle. Charging the battery from empty to full takes about eight to 10 hours. You can charge it on or off the bike, and removing the battery is straightforward, though it weighs 20 pounds.
With an IPX7 rating, the A1 Pro’s battery can handle being submerged in water up to 3 feet deep for 30 minutes without any damage. The bike features a single-speed setup with a carbon drive belt, which is quieter, cleaner, and more durable than a traditional chain. There are no gears to shift, and switching pedal assist modes is a breeze with the handlebar’s button pad.
If the battery runs out, pedaling won’t be much fun since the bike weighs 123 pounds. Clearly, the A1 Pro is designed for motorized travel. Its braking system includes four-piston hydraulic brakes with 203mm disc rotors, essential for a bike of this weight and speed.
Despite its robust appearance, the A1 Pro offers a comfortable ride. The seat includes foam padding, making it more comfortable than it looks. The bike also features dual air shocks in the front and a coil-over mono-shock under the seat, which help absorb bumps. Its 20-inch by 4-inch fat tires add stability and additional comfort.
The A1 Pro comes with a clear 5.5-inch full-color display that shows speed, date and time, battery level, distance traveled, and more. It supports Bluetooth, GPS, and 4G connections and works with the Async app for remote locking, Find My Bike, and navigation.
At first, I was extra cautious with the A1 Pro due to its industrial look and high-end components. However, I found its performance to be linear and easy to control. My initial caution with potholes and speed bumps proved unnecessary as the bike handled them effortlessly.
The A1 Pro offers a comfortable and thrilling ride with plenty of torque for quick takeoffs and hill climbing. Its features such as IPX7 waterproofing and carbon belt drive make it a durable and low-maintenance option for adventurous and everyday use. While I wish it came with mirrors and turn signals for city riding, they can be easily added.
Overall, the Async A1 Pro is a versatile, powerful e-bike with excellent handling and comfort. Its performance leaves little to be desired, even if its design might not be to everyone’s taste. Priced at $3,499, it represents a significant investment but is a worthwhile choice for those who value unique design, performance, and the freedom to explore.