What, this is New Zealand Autocar. What is a bike doing on its hallowed pages? Well we, like everyone, have to look to the future at times. And we are constantly being told by car makers that they are now mobility companies. That the future is about electrification, ride share and personal transport devices.
That is right, even the companies trying to sell you a diesel SUV now have an eye to a future where humans cover some of their journeys on electric devices for one.
Such devices though are already here, in the form of eBikes or scooters – and Kiwis have sure taken to the former, with 78,000 electrified two-wheels sold in 2022. They are, for many, replacing the car for transit duties, and for many becoming the leisure and fitness equipment of choice.
And I get why. You can run to the office or shops without breaking a sweat. And I am far more likely to get outside for some exercise and air if I know I will not get destroyed along the way.
All the major bike brands have jumped on the eBike wagon, while a few local operations have popped up, designing and specifying units to meet Kiwi tastes. One such operation is MeloYelo. The brand – which does share its colors with the ‘80s soft drink – offers its bikes through local agents that offer a more relaxed experience than a traditional store.
This time we are testing their Traverse MD – best described as being a value-orientated mid-range mountain bike, perfect for trickier bike trails but comfortable enough to still be a commuter.
Importantly, it’s mid-drive (that is the MD in the name), meaning power is provided by a motor attached to the pedal set. This means its 80Nm of torque runs though the gearing system, essentially allowing it to be multiplied. The alternative to this is a hub motor – within the rear wheel – that while more affordable can’t necessarily offer the same level of assistance on steeper hills.
Cruising around town, the motor added just enough extra power to help me glide up hills without feeling like I was being propelled by a small rocket. A pedal torque assist sensor is responsible for this, only feeding in power when you do too, with five levels of assistance available, adjusted via handlebar buttons.
Throughout my daily commute, I found the upright riding position surprisingly easy on my back and shoulders. Even better was the real-world practicality: the 6061 aluminium frame is sturdy yet not overly heavy at 28kg. You do feel the bike’s heft a bit if you need to lift it, though, so keep that in mind if you have stairs to climb.
The suspension system works well, with a SR Suntour suspension fork and the 27.5” wheels fitted with 2.0” tyres, and the ride feels smooth, whether you’re on city streets or light gravel tracks. It is soft enough for comfort, but firm enough that you don’t feel like it is absorbing your pedal effort.
Throughout my daily commute, I found the upright riding position surprisingly easy on my back and shoulders. Even better was the real-world practicality
The battery range is where the Traverse MD really shines for me. The removable 630 watt hour unit, with name-brand Samsung or LG cells, is integrated into the bike’s main beam. Range is estimated at 90km around town or 55km on a trail, meaning most could commute all week or take a longer weekend excursion without worrying about running out of juice. From a purely practical standpoint, that flexibility really boosts your confidence to explore further afield.
When it came time to stop for traffic lights or pedestrians, the Tektro hydraulic disc brakes delivered reliable stopping power, even in a brief spell of drizzle. I also liked knowing that my lights were powered off the main battery—no need to fiddle with separate batteries or worry about forgetting to switch them on.
All in all, the Traverse MD feels like a trustworthy companion for daily commuting and recreational rides alike. It’s not a specialist mountain bike or a feather-light racer, but it doesn’t pretend to be. Rather, it’s a versatile option that can handle most everyday situations with ease.
At its standard price of $4,595 the Traverse offers solid value, but they currently have limited stocks at $3,495 – a rather sharp deal. Find out more at www.meloyelo.nz.
• Smooth, natural-feeling assistance thanks to the mid-drive motor and torque sensor
• Multiple battery sizes offer flexible range options
• Upright geometry and front suspension provide a comfortable ride
• Reliable hydraulic disc brakes and integrated lights
• Kiwi-based support and a three-year warranty give peace of mind
• On the heavier side, which might be an issue if you need to carry it up stairs
• Costs more than some hub-drive alternatives, but the mid-drive’s performance may justify the price
