Testing Protocol
Testing Protocol
Every WLEA score follows the same rigorous process. Here's exactly how we evaluate each e-bike—so you know what our numbers mean.
Scoring Categories (100 Points Total)
Terrain Performance
How it handles West Linn's hills—motor power, heat management, assist response under load.
Comfort
Seat quality, riding position, vibration damping, step-through accessibility.
Value
Price-to-performance ratio compared to competitors in the same category.
Safety
Braking performance, lighting, stability at speed, emergency handling.
Ease of Use
Assembly complexity, display intuitiveness, maintenance accessibility.
Reliability
Build quality, component durability, manufacturer support reputation.
Our Testing Process
Day 1: Unboxing & Assembly
We document the out-of-box experience, assembly difficulty, and first power-on. This is where many bikes reveal quality issues before a single mile is ridden.
Week 1-2: Route Testing
Every bike runs our four standard routes: Hidden Springs Climb, Sunset Loop, Willamette Path, and Mixed Surface Circuit. Same conditions, same evaluation criteria.
Week 3-4: Range Verification
We test real-world range under multiple scenarios: full throttle, pedal assist levels, and mixed usage. Manufacturer claims get verified against actual performance.
Week 5-6: Long-Term Evaluation
Daily use for errands, leisure rides, and commuting. This reveals comfort issues and reliability concerns that don't show up in short tests.