If you’re on the hunt for an e-bike that genuinely feels different, something that blends high-tech features with a smooth, low-maintenance ride, then you absolutely need to check out the Priority Skyline e-bike. This isn’t just another electric bike. it’s Priority Bicycles’ most advanced e-bike to date, packed with components usually found on much pricier European models. We’re talking about an electronic automatic shifting Pinion gearbox, a super clean Gates Carbon Drive belt, and a powerful 750W motor that uses a torque sensor for an incredibly natural feel. From the moment you hop on, you’ll notice its refined design and thoughtful engineering, making it a fantastic option for everything from your daily commute to leisurely weekend rides. While the $3,999 price tag sometimes seen with an introductory discount dropping it to $3,699 might seem like a jump, what you’re getting is a bike built for reliability and performance for years to come. Think of it as an investment in genuinely effortless riding, a real car replacement for many.
One of my go-to tricks when picking out any gear, especially something as significant as an e-bike, is to consider what makes my life easier. The Skyline really delivers on that front, promising minimal fuss thanks to its sealed drivetrain and hydraulic brakes, meaning less time in the shop and more time enjoying the ride. For accessories that can enhance your e-bike experience, consider looking at some universal e-bike essentials like a good helmet or a sturdy bike lock to protect your investment.
What is the Priority Skyline E-bike?
The Priority Skyline e-bike is a premium offering designed for riders who prioritize performance, low maintenance, and cutting-edge technology. It’s built by Priority Bicycles, a brand known for focusing on quality builds and a rider-centric experience, often with a bent towards belt-drive systems for their clean and quiet operation. With the Skyline, they’ve really stepped up their game, creating what they call their “most advanced electric bike yet”.
At its core, the Skyline aims to provide an “effortlessly powerful” ride, perfect for high-speed commuting, everyday errands, and for anyone who values precise gear changes without the traditional fuss. It’s a compelling blend of robustness and innovation, targeting the urban commuter who wants a reliable, sophisticated, and enjoyable ride without constant upkeep.
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Key Features at a Glance
Let’s break down the headline features that make the Priority Skyline stand out from the crowd:
- Pinion C1.12i Smart.Shift Gearbox: This is the star of the show! It’s an electronic 12-speed internal gearbox system with an impressive 600% gear range. What’s wild about it is the automatic shifting capabilities, including “Start-Select” automatically shifts to your preferred starting gear when you stop and “Pre-Select” maintains your ideal cadence by automatically shifting. This kind of tech is usually reserved for e-bikes well over the $6,000 mark.
- Gates Carbon Drive Belt: Say goodbye to greasy chains and constant lubrication! The belt drive is incredibly clean, quiet, and requires next to no maintenance. It’s built for automotive-level reliability, much like what you’d find on high-end European trekking e-bikes.
- 750W Torque-Sensing Rear Hub Motor: This motor provides smooth, natural-feeling acceleration with 90 Nm of torque and peaks at an impressive 1056W. Because it’s torque-sensing, it responds to how hard you pedal, making the assist feel very intuitive, not like an abrupt on/off switch.
- 720Wh Integrated & Removable Battery: A substantial battery capacity means you can expect a range of 20 to 60+ miles on a single charge, depending on your assist level, terrain, and how much you use the throttle. It’s neatly tucked away in the downtube for a sleek look but is easily removable for charging or security.
- Commuter-Ready Accessories: Priority really includes all the essentials here. You get full-coverage alloy fenders to keep you clean, a sturdy integrated rear luggage rack, a bright 500-lumen front light, and a brake-sensing rear light for safety. There’s even a frame-mounted kickstand.
These features collectively paint a picture of a bike designed for serious, everyday use, where reliability and a hassle-free experience are paramount.
Who is this bike for?
The Priority Skyline e-bike truly shines for a specific type of rider. If you’re someone who… Google pixelsnap ring stand smartphone accessory review
- Commutes regularly: This bike is practically built for the daily grind. The low-maintenance drivetrain means you don’t have to worry about a greasy chain before work, and the integrated lights and fenders are perfect for all-weather commuting. The powerful motor and smart shifting make quick work of city traffic and hills.
- Values low maintenance: The Pinion gearbox and Gates Carbon Drive are game-changers. If you’re tired of derailleurs getting out of whack, chains needing constant cleaning and lubing, or just want a “set it and forget it” bike, this is definitely for you.
- Wants advanced technology: The automatic electronic shifting is a premium feature that elevates the riding experience. It’s for those who appreciate innovative engineering that simplifies the ride.
- Needs reliability and durability: Priority has a good reputation for building robust bikes. With components like the sealed gearbox and belt drive, this bike is built to endure daily use for many years.
- Seeks a “car replacement” for urban living: With its comfort, power, range, and accessory mounts for things like a good bike bag or a water bottle cage, the Skyline can genuinely replace many short to medium car trips.
On the flip side, if you’re a strict budget shopper, the Skyline’s price point might be a bit of a stretch, as it’s definitely on the higher end of direct-to-consumer e-bikes, though still a fantastic value for the tech it offers. Also, at 68 lbs 30.8 kg, it’s not a lightweight bike you’d want to carry up multiple flights of stairs daily.
First Impressions & Design
When you first lay eyes on the Priority Skyline, it immediately feels like a well-thought-out machine. It strikes a balance between being robust and looking surprisingly sleek, especially given the amount of tech packed into it.
Aesthetics and Visual Appeal
The Skyline boasts a clean, integrated design. The 720Wh battery is seamlessly tucked into the downtube, which really helps give the frame a streamlined look, avoiding that bulky appearance some e-bikes have. You’ll notice the internal cable routing too, which adds to its tidy aesthetic and also protects cables from the elements. Currently, it comes in a crisp white colorway.
The overall vibe is sophisticated and modern, leaning into a utilitarian yet stylish commuter feel. It doesn’t scream “e-bike” in an overt way, but rather exudes competence. Sony inzone h9 ii review
Frame and Build Quality
The frame itself is crafted from 6061 aluminum, a common and reliable material in bicycle manufacturing, known for its strength and relatively light weight for a non-carbon bike. The Skyline weighs in at 68 lbs 30.8 kg complete. Yes, that’s definitely not featherlight, but it’s pretty standard for a robust e-bike loaded with a powerful motor, a high-capacity battery, a sophisticated gearbox, and all those integrated accessories.
The frame follows a traditional double-diamond design, and Priority offers it in small, medium, and large sizes to accommodate riders from 5’4” to 6’3”. You’ll find plenty of accessory mount eyelets on the downtube and top tube, which is super handy if you want to add water bottle cages, extra bike storage bags, or tools. This attention to detail in the frame design really shows that Priority is thinking about the long-term utility and customization for riders.
Performance on the Road
Alright, let’s get into what really matters: how does this thing actually ride? The Priority Skyline is designed to deliver a powerful, smooth, and intuitive riding experience, whether you’re battling city traffic or enjoying a relaxed path.
Motor Power and Assistance Levels
The heart of the Skyline’s electric punch is its 750W rear hub motor, which boasts 90 Nm of torque and can peak at 1056W. What makes this motor stand out is its torque sensor. Unlike cadence sensors that just kick in when you pedal, a torque sensor responds to how much effort you’re putting in. This makes the pedal assist feel incredibly natural and smooth, almost like an extension of your own power. You get five levels of pedal assist to choose from, letting you dial in just the right amount of boost for any situation. Ohmbody starter kit menstrual relief review
Out of the box, the Skyline ships as a Class 2 e-bike, meaning it has a throttle and a top assisted speed of 20 mph. However, you can easily adjust the settings to unlock Class 3 performance, pushing that pedal-assisted top speed up to 28 mph 45 kph. The throttle is a nice touch for when you need a quick boost or just want to cruise without pedaling, though it typically assists up to 20 mph. Just keep in mind that local regulations vary, especially regarding throttles on Class 3 e-bikes.
Battery Life and Range
The Skyline is equipped with a substantial 720Wh battery, which is neatly integrated into the downtube for a clean look. Priority states that you can expect a range of 20 to 60+ miles on a single charge. As with all e-bikes, that range depends heavily on a few factors: how much you use the pedal assist or throttle, the terrain hilly vs. flat, your weight, and even the weather.
For many urban commuters, this kind of range means you can go several days, or even a full week, between charges. The battery is also removable, which is super convenient for charging it indoors or if you need to lighten the bike a bit for transport. Having a reliable battery means you can focus more on the ride and less on range anxiety. For optimal battery care, consider a smart e-bike charger to extend its lifespan.
Riding Experience Comfort, handling
The riding comfort on the Skyline is definitely “dialed in,” as one reviewer put it. It rolls on wide 650x50c 27.5” x 2.0” Maxxis Metropass tires, which are puncture-resistant and feature reflective sidewalls for added safety. These tires strike a nice balance, providing both speed and a good amount of cushion to absorb road chatter. Core devices pebble time 2 smartwatch review
Up front, an SR Suntour XCM 32 front suspension fork with 80mm of travel helps soak up potholes, cracked pavement, and other urban obstacles. This suspension, combined with the wide 740mm handlebars with a gentle 17° backsweep, offers great control and stability without feeling twitchy. The adjustable rise stem is also a fantastic feature, allowing you to fine-tune your riding position for a more upright and relaxed posture, which many commuters appreciate. The saddle itself is described as plush enough for longer rides, contributing to overall comfort.
One of the standout aspects of the riding experience is the Pinion C1.12i Smart.Shift gearbox. This electronic 12-speed system, combined with the Gates Carbon Belt Drive, makes for an incredibly smooth and intuitive ride. The “Start-Select” feature automatically shifts you to your preferred starting gear when you come to a stop, ensuring you always get off to a snappy start. The “Pre-Select” mode can even automatically shift gears to maintain your ideal pedaling cadence. While it might take a couple of rides to get used to the automatic shifting – you might find yourself briefly pausing your pedaling to let it shift, similar to how you’d naturally back off on a traditional drivetrain – users often find it becomes “weirdly satisfying” and intuitive. It’s a quiet system too, especially when compared to the “clunk clunk” of a traditional derailleur.
Gearing and Brakes
Let’s talk more about that innovative gearing and stopping power. The Pinion C1.12i Smart.Shift gearbox is truly a high-end component, offering a massive 600% gear range across its 12 electronically actuated gears. This wide range means you’ll have the right gear for anything, whether you’re tackling steep hills or cruising on flat ground. The electronic shifting is fast and precise, making transitions feel seamless. Paired with the Gates Carbon Drive belt, this system is virtually maintenance-free, silent, and incredibly clean – no greasy chains to worry about! You’ll only need a minor oil check for the gearbox every 6,000 miles 10,000 km, which is practically nothing compared to traditional drivetrains.
For stopping power, Priority has equipped the Skyline with Tektro HD-E350 hydraulic disc brakes, featuring 180mm rotors both front and rear. These brakes offer strong, confident, all-weather stopping performance. Crucially, they include a motor cut-off function, which instantly kills power when you squeeze the levers, adding an important layer of safety. Hydraulic disc brakes are also known for their low maintenance, requiring only occasional pad changes. If you ever need to replace them, finding Tektro brake pads is usually straightforward.
Components & Specs Breakdown
The Priority Skyline doesn’t skimp on quality when it comes to its individual components. Each part seems chosen to complement the overall theme of performance, reliability, and low maintenance. Adesso easytouch 130 full sized wired mechanical keyboard review
Drivetrain
We’ve already raved about it, but the Pinion C1.12i Smart.Shift gearbox with its 12 electronically actuated gears and 600% range is truly the centerpiece of the drivetrain. This mid-mounted gearbox, developed by former Porsche engineers, brings automotive-level precision and durability to biking. It’s married to a Gates Carbon Drive belt, specifically the CDX model, which is the gold standard for belt drives, known for its extreme longevity and “set it and forget it” nature. This combo means you get smooth, quiet, and reliable power transfer without any of the mess or constant adjustments associated with traditional chain-and-derailleur systems.
Brakes
As mentioned, the Tektro HD-E350 hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors front and rear provide excellent stopping power in all conditions. Hydraulic brakes offer a much more consistent and powerful feel than mechanical ones, requiring less hand effort. The motor cut-off switch is a crucial safety feature, ensuring the motor immediately disengages when you brake. Keeping your brakes in top condition is key, and you can find hydraulic disc brake kits or replacement rotors if needed down the line.
Tires and Wheels
The Skyline rolls on 27.5-inch WTB wheels with Boost-spaced front and rear axles, which provides a sturdy and modern wheel platform. Maxxis provides the 650x50mm 27.5″ x 2.0″ Metropass tires, specifically chosen for urban and light mixed-terrain riding. These tires are puncture-resistant, meaning fewer flats and less hassle, and they include reflective sidewalls to enhance your visibility, especially important for night riding or in low-light conditions. For added security against flats, you might consider puncture-resistant tire liners.
Other Noteworthy Components
- Suspension Fork: The SR Suntour XCM 32 front suspension fork with 80mm of travel smooths out the ride, making it more comfortable over rough patches.
- Integrated Lighting: A powerful 500-lumen headlight mounted on the stem and a brake-sensing rear light integrated into the fender ensure you’re visible and can see where you’re going, day or night.
- Display: A backlit display on the handlebar shows essential information like your speed, trip distance, odometer, and selected assist mode.
- Fenders and Rack: Full-coverage alloy fenders come standard, keeping road spray off your clothes. The rear rack is sleekly integrated into the fender, providing a robust platform for carrying your gear. For extra carrying capacity, you could look into pannier bags for bike racks.
- Adjustable Stem: The adjustable rise stem is a thoughtful touch, letting you customize your handlebar height for optimal comfort and riding posture.
- USB-C Charging: A convenient USB-C port allows you to charge your phone or other accessories on the go.
The Good, The Bad, and The Verdict
Every bike has its strengths and a few areas where it might not be perfect for everyone. The Priority Skyline is no different, but its strengths truly make it shine. Vuzix LX1 Smart Glasses: Your Everyday Wearable Tech Companion? Not Quite, But a Game-Changer for the Warehouse!
What We Love About the Skyline
- Incredible Drivetrain: This is the biggest selling point. The Pinion Smart.Shift gearbox with its automatic electronic shifting and the Gates Carbon Drive belt is a dream combo. It’s ultra-low maintenance, clean, quiet, and provides a vast gear range with incredibly smooth, precise shifts. This tech is usually on bikes costing thousands more.
- Natural and Powerful Motor Assist: The 750W torque-sensing hub motor delivers power smoothly and intuitively, making the ride feel very natural, almost like an extension of your own effort. It handles hills and keeps pace with traffic effortlessly.
- Commuter-Ready from the Start: Priority includes all the essentials: fenders, a rear rack, integrated lights, and a kickstand. You don’t need to buy a bunch of extra accessories to get it ready for daily commuting.
- Excellent Build Quality and Thoughtful Design: From the 6061 aluminum frame with internal cable routing to the integrated battery and accessory mounts, the Skyline feels solid and well-engineered. The adjustable stem and comfortable tires contribute to a great overall riding experience.
- Low Maintenance: Seriously, this bike is built to be ridden, not tinkered with. The belt drive, sealed gearbox, and hydraulic brakes mean very little upkeep compared to traditional bikes. This saves you time and money in the long run.
- Strong Brand Reputation: Priority Bicycles generally earns high praise for their customer service and quality builds, giving buyers confidence in their purchase.
Areas for Improvement / Potential Drawbacks
- Weight: At 68 lbs 30.8 kg, the Skyline is a heavy bike. While its stability on the road is a plus, it’s not a bike you’ll want to be carrying up stairs frequently or lifting onto a car rack alone, even with the removable battery.
- Initial Shifting Learning Curve: While the automatic shifting is fantastic once you get used to it, there might be a brief adjustment period where you learn to briefly pause pedaling for optimal shifts. It’s not a true “mid-drive” Pinion system which integrates the motor, which some enthusiasts might prefer, although it likely keeps the price more accessible.
- Price Point: While it’s an incredible value for the components, $3,999 is a significant investment for an e-bike. It’s not a budget option, but you are getting premium features.
- No Regenerative Braking: Some higher-end e-bikes, particularly those like the Stromer it’s compared to on Reddit, offer regenerative braking to recharge the battery. The Skyline doesn’t have this feature.
Comparing the Skyline to Competitors
When you look at the e-bike market, the Priority Skyline really carves out a unique niche. Most e-bikes in its price range around $3,000-$4,000 simply don’t offer the combination of a Pinion Smart.Shift gearbox and a Gates Carbon Drive belt. These are components typically found on high-end European trekking e-bikes that can easily cost $6,000 or more.
Many direct-to-consumer e-bikes focus on maximizing motor power and battery size for a lower price, often using more conventional chain-and-derailleur drivetrains, or less sophisticated internal gear hubs. While some like the Lectric One, mentioned in one source, though it’s a 6-speed Pinion, not 12-speed Smart.Shift have started to make Pinion more accessible, the Skyline seems to be the first to bring this specific high-end, electronic 12-speed Pinion Smart.Shift system and Gates belt drive to this more “affordable premium” segment.
For example, compared to Priority’s own “Current” model, the Skyline steps up significantly with its Pinion gearbox, more powerful motor 750W vs. 500W on the Current, and front suspension. While the Current is a fantastic all-around bike, the Skyline offers a more refined, responsive ride, better equipped for varied terrain and higher performance commuting. Reddit discussions even highlight how the Skyline is “entering the Stromer territory without Stromer price tag,” though noting the absence of regenerative braking. This makes the Skyline a strong contender for those who want top-tier, low-maintenance components without shelling out for boutique European prices. If you’re comparing, always check for similar belt-drive ebikes or ebikes with internal gear hubs to see the range of options.
Is the Priority Skyline E-bike Right for You?
So, after all that, is the Priority Skyline the right e-bike for your needs? If you’re an urban rider, a long-distance commuter, or just someone who truly values a seamless, low-maintenance, and powerful riding experience, then the answer is very likely yes. Seanxt elite underwater scooter review
This e-bike is for you if:
- You despise chain grease and constant drivetrain adjustments.
- You want an intuitive, natural-feeling pedal assist that responds to your effort.
- You need robust, reliable components that are built to last.
- You appreciate integrated features like lights, fenders, and a rack for everyday utility.
- You’re ready to invest in a high-quality machine that feels refined and performs consistently.
- You want cutting-edge technology like automatic electronic shifting that simplifies your ride, not complicates it.
It’s probably not the best fit if:
- You need a super lightweight bike that you can easily carry up multiple flights of stairs every day.
- Your primary use is off-road mountain biking on extremely challenging trails though the suspension fork and wide tires handle light off-road well.
- You’re on a very strict budget and prioritize the absolute lowest price over premium components and long-term low maintenance.
The Priority Skyline feels like a culmination of smart design and advanced engineering, delivering an experience that truly stands out. It’s built to be a daily driver that you can rely on for years, making your commutes and casual rides genuinely enjoyable and hassle-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of motor does the Priority Skyline e-bike have?
The Priority Skyline features a powerful 750W rear hub motor with a torque sensor. This means the pedal assist responds to how much effort you’re putting into pedaling, making the boost feel very natural and smooth, almost like an extension of your own power. It delivers 90 Nm of torque and can reach a peak of 1056W, easily tackling hills and keeping up with traffic.
What is the range of the Priority Skyline’s battery?
The Skyline is equipped with a large, integrated 720Wh battery that offers a range of 20 to 60+ miles on a single charge. Keep in mind that the actual range can vary depending on several factors, like the level of pedal assist you use, whether you’re using the throttle, the terrain, and your weight. It’s easily removable for convenient charging. Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer: Your Next Kitchen Essential?
Does the Priority Skyline have a throttle?
Yes, the Priority Skyline e-bike includes a throttle. This allows you to get a boost of power without pedaling, ideal for quick starts or when you just want to cruise. The throttle assists up to 20 mph. It’s worth noting that while the bike ships as a Class 2 20 mph max speed with throttle, you can unlock it for Class 3 performance 28 mph pedal assist, but throttle usage may still be limited to 20 mph, and regulations vary by location.
Is the Priority Skyline e-bike low maintenance?
Absolutely! One of the biggest selling points of the Priority Skyline is its ultra-low maintenance design. It uses a Gates Carbon Drive belt instead of a traditional chain, which means no grease, no rust, and very minimal tension checks. The bike also features a sealed Pinion C1.12i Smart.Shift gearbox, which only requires an oil change every 6,000 miles 10,000 km. Even the Tektro hydraulic disc brakes are considered low maintenance compared to cable-actuated systems.
What makes the Pinion Smart.Shift gearbox special?
The Pinion C1.12i Smart.Shift gearbox is a highly advanced, electronic 12-speed internal gearing system with a massive 600% gear range. What makes it truly special is its automatic shifting capability. It has features like “Start-Select,” which automatically downshifts to your preferred starting gear when you stop, and “Pre-Select,” which can automatically shift to maintain your ideal pedaling cadence. This technology provides incredibly smooth, precise, and effortless gear changes, simplifying the riding experience.
How heavy is the Priority Skyline e-bike?
The Priority Skyline weighs 68 lbs 30.8 kg complete. While this is on the heavier side for a bicycle, it’s a pretty standard weight for a robust e-bike that includes a powerful motor, a high-capacity battery, a sophisticated gearbox, front suspension, fenders, and a rear rack. The weight contributes to its stable ride but does mean it’s not ideal for frequent carrying up stairs.
What accessories come standard with the Priority Skyline?
Priority is known for including commuter essentials, and the Skyline is no exception. It comes standard with full-coverage alloy fenders, an integrated rear luggage rack, a bright 500-lumen front light, a brake-sensing rear light, and a frame-mounted kickstand. It also has an adjustable rise stem and a convenient USB-C charging port. Segway gt3 pro review
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