When most people buy an electric bicycle, they wonder about its long-term reliability. Will it survive daily commutes, weekend adventures, and constant wear and tear? One Ride1Up Prodigy V2 owner decided to find out—by putting 10,000 miles on his bike and documenting every detail.

Purchased in March 2023 for $1,595, this e-bike became more than just a transportation method—it became a real-world durability experiment. The rider committed to using the bike daily for commuting and weekend rides, tracking its performance meticulously.

The results are nothing short of impressive. Despite extensive use, the bike's core components remain remarkably intact. The frame and fork show no signs of cracking, while the Brose mid-drive motor continues delivering full power without any strange noises or performance degradation.

Battery performance was particularly noteworthy. After 10,000 miles, the battery still retains over 80% of its original capacity—a statistic that should reassure potential e-bike buyers worried about long-term battery health. The Shimano derailleur continues shifting smoothly after basic adjustments, and Tektro brakes maintain proper performance with routine pad replacements.

Consumable parts did require replacement, which is expected with any well-used bicycle. Over the 10,000-mile journey, the owner replaced three chains, two sets of brake pads, one set of tires, and one cassette—totaling approximately $295 in maintenance costs. These expenses align closely with traditional bicycle maintenance, demonstrating the e-bike's practicality.

Interestingly, the owner's experience contrasted sharply with a friend who purchased a cheaper, dropshipped e-bike. That alternative bike's motor failed around 3,000 miles, with prolonged replacement processes and rapid battery capacity loss. This comparison underscores the value of purchasing from reputable, US-based companies with strong customer support.

When broken down financially, the bike's cost per mile is remarkably low. At roughly $0.19 per mile—compared to traditional vehicles' $0.60 to $0.80 per mile—the Ride1Up Prodigy V2 represents an economical transportation solution. Even if the bike were to fail unexpectedly, the owner would still have achieved significant financial savings.

This long-term ownership story provides valuable insights for potential e-bike buyers. It demonstrates that with proper maintenance and a quality initial purchase, electric bicycles can be reliable, cost-effective transportation that withstands extensive daily use.