Volt's website gives you an idea of what to expect from its hot new two-wheeler Infinity. "We don't make bikes that are too electric," he says, as he traces the fascinating history of this innovative British brand. It also gives you a great idea of what to expect from this latest addition to the growing line of Volt electric bikes. The Infinity looks like a real bike, and the Volt's designers did a commendable job of making an aesthetically pleasing machine. This is despite the fact that it has the chassis-mounted battery and the usual electric motor for the crank combination that defines many e-bike models. The company has chosen to build Infinity around two main elements; the Shimano 250W crank motor and its associated Steps operating technology, offering peaks of 15.5 mph or 25 km/h. It also adapts support dynamically, according to your needs.
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(Image credit: Rob Clymo) Interestingly, there's a new LS version of this bike, a two-wheeler that's a slight variation on the theme of the base Infinity model, but includes most of the same components, like wheels 700cc, Schwalbe puncture resistant tires and SR Suntour NCX suspension. The very large battery, on the other hand, is Sony's standard 36V 418Wh lithium-polymer and, in theory at least, provides up to 70 miles of charge using Eco PAS mode. It is a stimulating cocktail of quality components. The biggest difference to the LS is the midframe, which Volt says is smaller and lower than the original. This should make it more appealing to people who find the original incarnation a bit big or don't like the big crossbar. Either way, he'll find the frame dominated by the bulky battery and Shimano drive unit on the crank. Without this clever power management system, however, you'll find the Volt Infinity to be a bit heavy. As is the case with e-bikes, the battery and motor add weight, with the Infinity weighing 21kg without the battery and 23.65 with the onboard power supply. It seems quite heavy, especially if you have to lift it out of a doorway or onto a train, for example, even if the frame is actually aluminum.
Easy handling, on or off the road
Start pedaling though, relax a bit, and the Volt Infinity will soon start to get more and more enjoyable. The bike is equipped with either the eight or 12-speed Alfine D11 drivetrain, which, together with Shimano Steps technology, allows for effortless automatic shifting. It can also be used manually if you prefer to get more involved with your bike. Either way, the cycling portion of the experience is as good as any on the market. The Shimano up-down button located on the left side of the handlebar allows you to manage the power assist and is a proven format that works well. An added benefit when you're not riding is that it has a walk assist mode, which is invaluable if you're coming back from the store with a bike loaded with groceries. It may seem like a small thing, but we find ourselves using the walking aid quite often. Credit must also go to the Infinity's stopping power, courtesy of Shimano Alfine hydraulic disc brakes on two wheels. The overall effect is then an e-bike that starts, goes, and stops again without a hitch.
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(Image credit: Rob Clymo) Shimano's handlebar-mounted computer is easy to use, both before you head out and on the go. It's quick and easy to navigate and gets things done without a hitch. Everything is well thought out in Japanese simplicity and complements the overall experience with speed, distance, battery power, and your chosen gear. There are some clean touches to the Volt Infinity, too, especially for people who live in countries with decent rainfall levels. Full length mud flaps are invaluable, keeping you and your clothes and shoes from getting sprayed on rain-soaked roads.
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(Image credit: Rob Clymo) If you're going off-road, it's not like the Infinity is an all-rounder, you'll find it does well on grass and smooth trails. It will also repel some mud as well. The Schwalbe tires, while certainly of the road variety, actually seemed to offer decent grip on wet grass. Although Volt e-bikes have significant price tags, the overall feel is certainly on the higher end given our short time with the Infinity. Volt used quality components here, as evidenced by the Shimano Core running gear. Sony's battery would be good for 1,000 charge/discharge cycles and can be fully charged in three to four hours. It's perfect for juicing overnight if you're done using it for the day, keeping you ready for the next commute or shopping trip.
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(Image credit: Rob Clymo) Despite valiant attempts to energize the Volt Infinity with a few niceties in the graphics department, this electric bike seems a bit underrated. But it's actually a good thing. Take e-bikes around town and soon you'll be spotted by characters who can see the starting point with your expensive new machine. Rock the Volt Infinity and it could go unnoticed, which should allow you to enjoy it much longer than many e-bike owners.