Review: Testing the best (and only) belt-drive electric cruiser bike: The Priority E-Coast
The Priority E-Coast is fascinating as a cruiser bike, especially considering the beach cruiser category normally sees rather barebones and simplistic designs. The NYC-based bike brand Priority Bicycles has never skimped on its bicycles though, and the E-Coast is no different. That means you’re looking at a high-end beach cruiser e-bike for a better-than-reasonable price.
I won’t bury the lede here; the Priority E-Coast is priced at US $1,999. That’s on the higher end of the spectrum for beach cruiser e-bikes, but you’re about to see why. [Note: For the next five days you can save $300 with the Black Friday sale by using code MOBF15 at checkout].
I’ve spent several months testing out the Priority E-Coast, and I can tell you that they approached this e-bike with the same design ethos as all of their top-shelf bicycles: with a keen eye toward quality design intended for daily riders.
The result is nothing short of an electric beach cruiser that you can be proud to ride every day of the week, knowing it will last (and not need maintenance every week or two to stay in good running condition).
Check out the video below to see my testing in action!
Priority E-Coast Video Review
Priority E-Coast quick specs
- Motor: 500W rear geared hub motor
- Top speed: 45 km/h (28 mph)
- Range: Up to 32-96 km (20-60 mi)
- Battery: 48V 12Ah (576 Wh)
- Brakes: Dual-piston disc brakes on 180 mm rotors
- Extras: LCD display, LED head and tail lights, right-side half-twist throttle, heavy-duty center kickstand, cruiser saddle, platform pedals, 3″ balloon tires, custom paint selection
A different type of cruiser
We’ve seen some very nice electric cruiser bikes before, but this is the first time I’ve seen a brand known for its high-end pedal bikes approach the category. That resulted in the type of attention to detail that only true bike nerds can reach. This isn’t some cheap Walmart cruiser.
And that expertise really shines through on the bicycle component side of things. The electric half of the e-bike is also pretty nice, but let’s start with the bike side.
First of all, this isn’t Priority’s first cruiser. In fact, the E-Coast is largely just an electrified version of the brand’s Coast beach cruiser. That means they’ve already spent years working out what makes this bike work well.
You’ll find all the great low-maintenance parts that you’d expect on a high-end bike. That means hydraulic brakes for punchy, responsive stops. That means a Gates carbon belt drive for a smooth, silent, and maintenance-free drivetrain. And that means corrosion-resistant components like sealed bearings and a rust-free frame.
Of all those nice features, the belt drive is probably the most standout component. Gates is a leader in the belt-drive market for a reason – these things are bulletproof. They last longer than chains, don’t require oiling, never get rusty or squeaky, and are even more efficient over the bike’s lifetime (chains start out more efficient, but that drops quickly as they wear down).
The fact that a belt drive is silent and maintenance-free is just such a beautiful thing for owners who want to spend more time enjoying their ride and less time taking care of their ride.
I’m also a big fan of the 3″ balloon tires. These are classic beach cruiser tires that really make the bike what it is. They’ve got a solid inch or so on traditional hybrid tires, yet aren’t as cumbersome as 4″ fat tires. They’re just big enough to give a good, squishy ride yet narrow enough to still feel like a normal bike tire. They can handle a bike lane just fine or roll over dense beach sand, all on the same ride.
This is also a good time to note that there’s no suspension in the bike, which means the extra air volume in those tires is helpful for pseudo-suspension.
They simply did a great job with the bike’s design. It’s even available in both a step-through and a step-over (and four different colors!) so that lovers of either style can find exactly what they want.
Both frame styles give you an upright and relaxed riding position that beach cruiser riders have come to love. There’s no hunched-over city ride here, it’s all relaxed cruising!
But what about the electronics side?
So the bicycle side of things looks great, and the E-Coast obviously had a leg up there with Priority’s legacy of bicycle design. But what does that mean for the e-side of things?
Well this isn’t Priority’s first rodeo. Or its second. Priority Bicycles has been building e-bikes for years, and so they came into this with a good background there too, even if it doesn’t quite match their pedal bike legacy.
So I’d say Priority did a decent job on the electric side, though it’s certainly not the star of this bike show.
At 500W, the rear hub motor is powerful enough for the bike’s main job: cruising. It’s got some decent torque for hill climbing, but the single-speed drivetrain means you won’t be able to drop into low gear for super stand-on-the-pedals ascents. Even so, I’d say power isn’t an issue here, even if it’s not as punchy as the ultra-powerful bikes we’ve tried before.
The 576Wh battery is similarly adequate. It’s not huge, but this also isn’t a power-hungry bike and so it lasts nicely.
They claim 20-60 miles (32-96 km) of range per charge, with the longer end of that range coming from using the lower power pedal assist option. If you’re heavy on the throttle and ride at top speed, expect the lower end of the range.
The only thing I don’t like about the battery is how high it is mounted. It’s way up there in the rear rack, which is necessary to preserve the classic cruiser frame, but it just means the bike feels a bit top-heavier than it needs to. The upside is you get a nice big rear rack, so there are benefits, too. And for those that are used to riding around with a milk crate full of beach gear on the back of their bike, you’re probably already accustomed to a few extra pounds up high on the bike anyway.
Now let’s talk speed, which is another interesting issue. Out of the box, you’re limited to 20 mph (32 km/h), making it a Class 2 e-bike. But you can use the settings in the display to open it up to 28 mph (45 km/h) on pedal assist, making it a Class 3 e-bike (if you ignore the throttle). While higher speeds are fun, I did find that the single-speed nature meant that your feet are spinning quite fast once you blow past 20 mph. So, while you CAN hit Class 3 speeds, it’s not ideal.
But then again, this is a beach cruiser… it’s meant for those who enjoy taking life at a slightly more relaxed pace. The kind of people who like to enjoy the world around them and not just see it blow past in a blur.
Lastly, that brings me to the final rider-facing piece of the electronics: the display. It’s a bit basic and small, but it gets the job done. It’s plenty readable though, so I can’t complain much about it, even if it’s not as beautiful or in-your-face as some of the fancier displays out there.
Wrap it all up
Ultimately, I’d say the Priority E-Coast scores top marks from me on the bike side and still quite high marks on the electric side.
For $1,999, it’s a great way to slide into a high-end electric cruiser bike, and I’ll praise components like the Gates belt drive and hydraulic brakes all day and night. Saving $300 with the Black Friday sale makes this even sweeter.
I’d have loved to see a torque sensor for those who enjoy lower-speed pedal assist that is extra-responsive, but it still feels good as-is. And the other components that are included really help seal the deal. Parts like the dual kickstand for stable parking as well as the included rear rack and fenders really help make this a complete package of an electric cruiser bike.
As a comfortable, relaxed ride that still features bike shop-quality parts, I’d call this a major win for the category.
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Electric vehicles’ share of the market continues to climb in America’s second city, with BEV registrations up more than 50% in the first quarter of 2025 compared with the same period last year. Great news, but charging hasn’t up – but a new plan from Chicago Department of Transportation aims to build up enough infrastructure for the city to keep up.
In a bid to keep up with the rapid growth of EVs, Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT is currently seeking public feedback on a plan called “Chicago Moves Electric Framework.” The city’s first such plan, it outlines initiatives that include a curbside charging pilot through the city’s utility, ComEd, and expanded charging access in key areas throughout the city.
Unlike other such plans, however, the new plan aims to focus on bringing electric vehicle charging to EIEC and low income communities, too.
“Through this framework, we are setting clear goals and identifying solutions that reflect the voices of our residents, communities, and regional partners,” said CDOT Commissioner Tom Carney. “By prioritizing equity and public input, we’re creating a roadmap for electric transportation that serves every neighborhood and helps drive down emissions across Chicago.”
Neighborhoods on the south and west sides of Chicago experience a disproportionate amount of air pollution and diesel emissions, largely due to vehicle emissions according to CDOT. Despite that, most of Chicago’s public charging stations are clustered in higher-income areas while just 7.8% are in environmental justice neighborhoods that face higher environmental burdens.
“Too often, communities facing the greatest economic and transportation barriers also experience the most air pollution,” explains Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. “By prioritizing investments in historically underserved areas and making clean transportation options more affordable and accessible, we can improve both mobility and public health.”
The Framework identifies other near-term policy objectives, as well – such as streamlining the EV charger installation process for businesses and residents and implementing “Low-Emission Zones” in areas disproportionately impacted by air pollution by limiting, or even restricting, access to conventional medium- and heavy-duty vehicles during peak hours.
The Chicago Moves Electric Framework includes the installation of Level 2 and DC fast charging stations in public locations such as libraries and Chicago’s Midway Airport, “supporting not only personal EVs but also electric taxis, ride-hail and commercial fleets.”
Chicago has a goal of installing 2,500 public passenger EV charging stations and electrifying the city’s entire municipal vehicle fleet by 2035.
Electrek’s Take
I hate to sound like a bed-wetting liberal here, guys, but Chicago is getting EVs absolutely right with big utility incentives on both vehicles and infrastructure, a governor willing to stand behind smart environmental policy, and a solid push for more and better infrastructure in the areas where they’ll do the most good. They’re even thinking of the children.
Here’s hoping more cities follow suit.
SOURCE: ComEd, via Smart Cities Dive; featured image by EVgo.
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With a fully-enclosed, G-Wagen-inspired body and an 80 mile electric range, the Bodo G-Wagon golf cart is the NEV you need when you decide it’s time to get serous one-upping the rest of the Palm Beach country clubbers.
If you love the look of the $230,000 Mercedes-Benz G580 off-roader, but think the 579 hp, 6,800 lb. electric 4×4 is probably overkill for occasional trips to the golf course and country club, this G-Wagen-inspired golf cart might be just what you’re looking for.
The shiny black 2024 Bodo G-Wagon sold at Mecum Auctions last month for $31,900, which seems like it might not be a lot of money to the sort of person who decides to take a flyer on a goofy, limited-use EV that ships with real, metal doors, power windows, heating and air conditioning, fully digital instrument cluster and infotainment, and a “posh,” caramel leather interior.
It even has windshield wipers, power steering, and a rear-seat entertainment system that’s built into the front headrests!
It’s really nice in there
Under the hood, the Bodo packs a 15 kW (20 hp) electric motor drawing power from a 10 kWh li-ion battery that won’t deliver a scorching 0-60 mph time (it only goes 35), but will deliver you and your buddies from one end of any golf course in North America and back several times over, thanks to the G-Wagon’s 80 mile range.
The official Mecum Auctions listing goes into a bit more detail, and I’ve included it here, in case it gets deleted after a while and you’re just finding this for the first time in 2027:
Be the envy of any country club or golf community showing up with this 2024 Bodo G-Wagon Golf Cart. Perhaps more appropriately known as an E-Wagon, this baby G-Wagon is powered by a 15kW motor with a 10kWh lithium battery. Boasting an 80-mile range and a 35 MPH top speed, the Bodo is an enclosed, luxury golf cart that pampers occupants with heating and air conditioning, rear-seat entertainment, power windows, power locks and a posh, caramel-colored interior. With the Bodo fitted with power steering and 4-wheel power disc brakes with brake boost, drivers will think they’re in a full-size G-Wagon, thanks to the multiscreen entertainment cluster, the rearview camera, windshield wipers, turn signals, running lights and so much more.
Finished in black with the right amount of brightwork, the overall vibe is one of jaw-dropping, smile-inducing fun. While the Bodo would be an excellent choice for any golf community, it should also prove to be hugely popular around a race track or car condo community as well, or maybe even a neighborhood with its own airplane runways. Over the past decade in particular, the demand for unique, luxury golf carts has been on the rise, and understandably so. The number of luxury communities with specific interests in sports, aero and auto has also been on the rise, with people buying homes in these exclusive locations to better engage with like-minded people. All too often a golf cart is the perfect way to get around these gated neighborhoods, and this one is enclosed, comes with the amenities of a full-size car and is infinitely more stylish.
You can check out a few more photos of the 2024 Bodo G-Wagon golf cart that sold at Mecum, below – and if you want one for yourself, you’re in luck! I found this brand-new 2025 “G600 E-Wagon” (in white) for $23,900 at Gulf Carts in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Head on down to the comments and let us know if you buy it.
G-Wagon golf cart gallery
SOURCE | LOTS MORE PHOTOS: Mecum Auctions.
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The Hyundai IONIQ 5 got a raft of upgrades and sporty, rally-focused XRT trim level for 2025 – but the biggest upgrade for the Made in America Hyundai might be this: the 5 has regained eligibility for the full $7,500 federal EV tax credit!
Despite being assembled at Hyundai’s Georgia meta plant for the last four month, the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 was nowhere to be found on the EPA’s list of rebate-eligible vehicles. But that was then – with a fresh updated to the list coming online May 1st, Hyundai’s new-age electric hot hatch is back in the rebate game.
It’s worth noting that lease customers had been able to access the incentive under some circumstances, but this latest update to the EPA list makes it possible for cash and payment buyers to take advantage of the full Federal incentive, too – as long as they earn less than $300,000 as a married couple filing jointly, less than $225,000 as a head of household, or less than $150,000 as an individual.
With the $7,500 federal tax credit in the equation, you can get a new 2025 IONIQ 5 for somewhere in between $36,575 and $49,475, well under the $80,000 Federal MSRP cap.
Victory lap
As if to celebrate, Hyundai announced that it was taking on the celebrate One Lap of America road rayy and race event in a factory collaboration with the track-focused enthusiasts at Grassroots Motorsports this week with One Lap veterans Andy Hollis and Tom Suddard campaigning a stock, 601 hp 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N in the Alternative Fuels class.
“After winning our class in a gutted, caged race car last year, we wanted to compete in the best-of-all worlds this year: A vehicle that’s incredibly fast, incredibly comfortable on a road trip, and incredibly capable on a racetrack,” explains Suddard. “Electrification means it’s finally possible to have huge power without huge compromises in a street car, and the IONIQ 5 N promises to pair that huge power with the durability and capability to survive a week of racing.”
One Lap is widely regarded as one of the toughest street-legal motorsports events in the world, pitting amateur and professional drivers alike compete in stock and heavily modified vehicles of every description, battling it out in a series of scored challenges, including timed events at road courses, drag strips, skid pads, and autocross courses.
In between tracks, competitors safely travel thousands of miles around the country, proving the mettle and durability of the vehicles and the teams that drive them. This year, 86 teams from all over the country will compete in 17 scored events over the course of eight days at tracks like Virginia International Raceway and NCM Motorsports Park.
The Tire Rack One Lap of America is currently underway – you can track the Hyundai’s progress here, then let us know what you think of this new tax development in the comments.
SOURCES | IMAGES: Hyundai, One Lap of America; FuelEconomy.gov.
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