As a content creator for usabikers.net, I’m always on the lookout for electric bikes that stand out from the crowd, offering both performance and individuality. My recent experience with the Soul Sonic Saber Pro SS has been noteworthy, particularly for riders who, like myself, need a robust and reliable e-bike. Being a larger rider at 6ft and 285lbs, finding a bike that can comfortably handle my weight while delivering speed and style is crucial. The Sonic Saber Pro SS has not only met but exceeded these expectations, leading me to acquire a second one shortly after my initial purchase in January. This review delves into why this Fast Electric Bike has impressed me so much.
What immediately sets the Soul Sonic Saber apart is its design aesthetic. In a market saturated with e-bikes that often appear as rebranded versions of the same generic models, the Sonic Saber offers a refreshing departure. It avoids the bulky battery packs and rear racks that are commonplace in many e-bikes, presenting a cleaner, more streamlined look. This design DNA is directly influenced by Jim Decker, the bike’s creator and a former BMX racer. This BMX heritage is evident in the bike’s frame geometry and overall styling, giving it a unique and sporty appeal that’s hard to find elsewhere.
For riders seeking a fast electric bike that doesn’t compromise on style or build quality, the Sonic Saber Pro SS hits a sweet spot. It’s not trying to compete with the ultra-high-end, $7,000 to $10,000 e-bikes that often rely on brand name recognition or European design to justify their price tags. Instead, Soul Sonic Saber focuses on delivering an affordable yet high-quality e-cruiser with a distinctive design and well-chosen components. While you can always upgrade components later if desired, the out-of-the-box specifications are impressive for its price range, which starts at $1899 for the base model and $2499 for the Pro SS.
The Pro SS model I opted for comes fully loaded with the “Pro package,” including SS chrome badging, enhancing its visual appeal. Beyond aesthetics, Soul Fast EBikes also offers a mid-drive “Hot Rod” model, the Soul Stomper SS, for those prioritizing even more power and speed. However, for my needs as a larger rider looking for a reliable and stylish fast electric bike for cruising, the Sonic Saber Pro SS is perfectly positioned.
Concerns about quality from some online comments seem unfounded based on my experience. Having ridden and now owning two Sonic Sabers, the build quality and component selection are commendable, especially considering the price point. The specifications speak for themselves, offering a compelling package for anyone seeking a fast electric bike without breaking the bank.
Sonic Saber Pro SS showcasing its unique design and front suspension
To give you a clearer picture of the bike’s dimensions, here are some key measurements from my own Sonic Saber Pro SS:
- Ground to top of handlebars: 50″ / 4′- 2″
- Width of handlebars: 35″ / 2′ – 11″
- Wheelbase center to center: 51″ / 4′ – 3″
- Length outside tire to outside tire: 78″ 6′ – 6″
- Seat Tube Diameter: 27.2mm
- Seat Tube Length: 30cm
- Handlebar Diameter: 31.6mm – 24.0mm
- Rear Axle Nuts: 18mm
- Front Axle Nuts: 15mm
- Battery Weight: 8 lbs.
- Bike Weight w/o Battery: 62 lbs.
- Total Bike Weight: 70 lbs.
It’s worth noting that due to component availability, my blue Sonic Saber Pro SS came with an upgraded high-end front hub featuring sealed bearings and a 10mm axle. This is a positive change, replacing the original “Spike” wheel/axle nuts with a more robust and modern setup.
For those interested in the detailed specifications of this fast electric bike, here’s a comprehensive overview:
Soul Fast EBikes – Sonic Saber Pro SS Specifications:
- Make: Soul Fast E Bikes
- Model: SABER PRO SS (Sale Price: $2499, Original Price: $3800)
- Body Position: Upright
- Suggested Use: Cruising & Street Riding
- Electric Bike Class: Speed Pedelec (Class 2)
- Warranty: Lifetime frame warranty, 1 year parts, 16 months motor & battery
- Availability: Worldwide
- Model Year: 2021
- Sonic Saber Details:
- Total Weight: 58 lbs
- Battery Weight: 6.1 lbs
- Motor Weight: 12 lbs
- Frame Material: 6061 Aluminum Alloy
- Frame Size: 19 in (48.26 cm)
- Geometry: 19″ Seat Tube, 26″ Reach, 30″ Standover Height, 34.5″ Width, 79″ Length, 35.5″ Minimum Saddle Height, Handlebar height 4′
- Fork: Front suspension fork with 5” travel
- Rear Details: 170mm Hub Spacing, 11/32nd Axle with 15mm Nuts
- Gearing: 7 Speed Shimano Derailleur
- Shifter: Shimano Revo Grip Shift
- Cranks: Custom Soul Black series 4130 Chromoly, 175mm Length, 42T Chainring
- Pedals: XL Aluminum
- Headset: Integrated
- Stem: Billet Clamp, 31.8mm, 180º Adjustment Range
- Handlebar: Aluminum Alloy, BMX Style, 180mm Rise, 870mm Length, 30º Back Sweep
- Brakes: Mechanical Disc, 180mm Front/Rear Rotors, Motor Inhibitors, 2-Finger Levers with Adjustable Reach (Hydraulic Brake Upgrade Available)
- Saddle: Grand Star Oversize, Quilted, Rubber Bumpers, Reflective Logo
- Seat Post: Aluminum Alloy (350 mm Length, 27.2 mm Diameter)
- Rims: Aluminum Alloy, Punchouts, 36 Hole
- Spokes: Stainless Steel, 14 Gauge, Black with Chromed Brass Nipples
- Tires: Soul FAST Vee Speedsters w/ Protection Sealant (26 x 2.80), 10-30 PSI
- Tubes: Schrader Valve
- Accessories: Integrated front headlight & rear tail light
Electronic Components:
- Motor Brand: Bafang (Mens 26″ 750 / 1000W peak, Ladies 26″ 500 / 750W peak, 24″ 500 / 750W peak)
- Motor Type: Hub Motor
- Motor Nominal Output: Mens 26″ 750 watts, Ladies 26″ 500 watts, 24″ 500 watts
- Motor Peak Output: 26″ 1000 watts, 24″ 750 watts
- Motor Torque: 750W 80 Newton meters
- Battery Brand: Samsung
- Battery Voltage: 48 volts
- Battery Amp Hours: 10.5 ah / *14ah PRO SS
- Battery Watt Hours: 696 wh
- Battery Chemistry: Lithium-ion
- Charge Time: 6.5 hours
- Estimated Range: 30-40 miles (Min), 50+ miles (Max)
- Display Type: Bafang 961C
- Readouts: Battery Capacity, Clock, Trip/Total Distance, Speed, Assist Level
- Controls: Independent Button Pad (Up, Down, M, Power)
- Drive Mode: Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist, Trigger Throttle (12 Magnet Sealed Sensor)
- Top Speed: 28+ mph*
Pro SS Package Inclusions:
- Custom Integrated 14AH Long Range Battery
- Massive Front Lock Out Suspension Forks
- Light Weight (Under 60lbs)
- Soul Speedster Performance Tires by Vee Rubber
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Bafang 500C Color Display
- Soul Fast Sealed Billet Aluminum Pedals
- High Power Integrated Head Light
- 4130 Soul Signature Cranks
- Sealed Bottom Bracket
- KMC Z Chain
- Lock-On Grips
- SS Badging
- Billet 31.8mm MTB Stem
- Aluminum BMX Bars
In conclusion, the Soul Sonic Saber Pro SS offers a compelling package for riders seeking a fast electric bike that blends unique design, solid performance, and excellent value. Its BMX-inspired aesthetics, robust build, and comprehensive Pro SS package make it a standout choice in the crowded e-bike market. Whether you’re a larger rider needing a dependable bike or simply someone who appreciates distinctive design and performance, the Sonic Saber Pro SS is definitely worth considering as your next fast electric bike.
