Blix Sol X Review | The Cruiser/Commuter of the Future?

The previous test sections have measured objective performance with data, but the subject of ride quality tends to be much more subjective. In this section, we will examine many of the elements and aspects of the Sol X that contribute to how it feels to ride.

As a cruiser-style e-bike, we expected it to exhibit many of the defining characteristics of this category—primarily an extremely comfortable and relaxed feel. With a wide, well-cushioned saddle, an upright seating position, and curved handlebars with ergonomic grips, the Sol X met our expectations with its enjoyable, accommodating feel.

The bike is available in a single frame size intended for riders between 5’1” and 6’2”. It has an 8” saddle height adjustment, and its stem is adjustable, allowing riders to change its angle and alter the bike’s handlebar height and reach.

At 5’11”, I found its sizing to be appropriate and comfortable. I was able to raise the saddle for proper and efficient leg extension, and I set the handlebars to a comfortable (still relatively low) height.

I referenced the bike’s nimble handling in the intro; with most of its weight below or behind the saddle, its steering responded extremely quickly. The Sol X is also stable while riding, thanks to its long wheelbase and stretched-out geometry.

The bike’s fork is rigid, so it has no suspension outside of its saddle and tires. When riding, bumps felt softened by these features but still somewhat noticeable. Rigid forks are common on beach cruisers, so this was not unexpected, and this feature also contributes to the Sol X’s handling.

While I have discussed the bike’s natural feel and adaptive, responsive motor output previously, these elements are central to the Sol X’s experience. I appreciated the fact that, while the bike’s uncommonly powerful motor can make short work of hills and deliver fast speeds, it never felt overpowered; it was never obvious that I was riding an e-bike.

The bike’s high-tech electronic shifting was another core element of its ride. In addition to quick, responsive gear changes (and a cool beep), the system also offers an automatic shifting feature that was in beta-testing mode during our review.

When activated, this feature only functions when using the Auto pedal assist setting; it automatically changes gears to match a pre-selected measure of rider power (in watts) and a target cadence. Both of these targets are set using the Blix Connect app.

In addition to allowing users to change the bike’s speed settings, engage and tune the auto-shifting feature, and download firmware updates, the Blix Connect app also allows riders to access useful ride data. Much of this data is identical to what is shown on the bike’s display, but it also includes a power meter and an estimated remaining range.

It’s important to note that while we found the Sol’s tech package to be a boon to its ride quality, the system was not perfect. The automatic shifting feature generally worked well, though it could feel somewhat jarring because it shifted unpredictably (especially on hills).

Additionally, we found that changing the bike’s speeds could disrupt its programming. In some instances, the motor output changed to require much more effort to reach Class 3 speeds, while at other times, the throttle and pedal assist system exceeded the limits I set within the app. Considering that the app allows firmware updates, we hope these issues can be corrected in the future.

The Sol’s electronic shifting system and the control module on its right handlebar (which manages its lights, turn signals, and electronic horn) added a small layer of complexity, but overall, I found this bike very easy to use and well worth the learning curve.

I especially appreciated the bike’s three standard PAS settings; many e-bikes include five or more power levels that can feel like too many. I’m certain that, whether using the automatic shifting feature or not, many riders will appreciate the ease of the Auto assist mode, which makes it easy to simply hop on and pedal!

Overall, the Sol X excels in the area of ride quality, with comfort, responsiveness, and handling being some of its defining features. The bike is not without its quirks, though we found its technology to be unique and its ride extremely enjoyable and fun.