Claud Butler Ridge 1.0 review

Where the Ridge 1.0 fits

The clearest match is budget-conscious riders tackling towpaths, forest roads and non-technical leisure trails rather than steep or aggressive singletrack. This review is based on the Evans specification, manufacturer information and clearly identified independent coverage; it is not presented as a RideIn hands-on test.

Motor, controls and UK legality

Evans lists Bafang rear-hub motor; 32 Nm.. The controls are described as Handlebar display with three assistance modes, battery/speed readout and walk assist..

The Bafang 250W rear hub delivers a quoted 32Nm and keeps the drivetrain mechanically simple. It should take the edge off moderate hills and headwinds, but it cannot use the bike’s gears to multiply assistance like a mid-drive and will have fewer reserves on long, steep, loose climbs.

Evans describes selectable assistance and walk support, although its introductory text mentions three modes while other parts of the wider listing family commonly state five. Buyers should check the display and available modes on the delivered bike rather than treating either number as settled.

For use as an electrically assisted pedal cycle in Great Britain, the maximum continuous rated motor power must not exceed 250W, assistance must cut out by 15.5mph and the pedals must be able to propel the bike. Check the label and delivered configuration rather than relying on a category name.

Battery, charging and realistic range

The listed battery is Integrated, removable 375 Wh battery; approximately 5-hour charge time.. Up to 40 miles (64 km), per TGC.

The keyed 375Wh battery can be charged on or off the bike and takes about five hours from empty. The listing contains a unit error around its range; the coherent interpretation used across official Tandem Group material is up to 40 miles, or about 64km, not 40km or 64 miles.

That remains a best-case claim. Soft tyres, cold weather, repeated climbing and high assistance can reduce it greatly, so a first ride should establish consumption on the owner’s normal terrain.

Use only the approved compatible charger, charge away from escape routes and stop using a battery that is damaged, swollen, leaking or unusually hot. Ask for the replacement-pack price and warranty conditions before the original battery becomes a problem.

Frame, fit and ride character

The frame specification is 6061 aluminium frame with internal cable routing.. Fork and suspension details are Suspension fork with hydraulic lockout; travel is source-conflicted (Evans: 100 mm; TGC: 120 mm).. The tyres are 27.5 x 2.35-inch tyres..

The 27.5 x 2.35-inch tyres provide stability and grip on loose leisure surfaces, and Evans specifies a 100mm lockout fork. Shimano Altus 1x8 gearing removes front-shift complexity and gives a usable spread for gentle trail riding.

Cable disc brakes are easier for many home mechanics to maintain but generally need more lever effort and adjustment than hydraulics. Along with the modest hub torque and entry fork, they mark this as a recreational cross-country-style e-bike rather than a machine for technical descents.

Brakes, transmission and everyday equipment

The bike uses Cable-operated disc brakes.. Transmission is Shimano Altus 1x8-speed drivetrain.. Evans does not provide a complete equipment list in the accessible listing.

The battery lock and removable pack are useful for charging and public parking, though they do not replace a strong frame lock. The bike arrives about 85% assembled, and Evans recommends professional completion, a sensible step for brake alignment, wheel security and electrical cable checks.

Two sizes cover a stated rider-height range, but reach and stand-over should still be tested. There is no standard rack, mudguard or lighting package, so year-round commuting needs additional equipment.

What the published evidence tells us

Evans listed this build at £1,399.99 when RideIn checked it on 29 August 2026. Prices can differ by colour or size, and stock can change; a discount against a reference price does not by itself establish value.

The central motor and battery facts are supported by Evans and the official Tandem Group Cycles product page. The Evans copy contains internally inconsistent range units and assistance-mode wording, which are disclosed rather than silently repeated.

Robust independent ride testing is scarce, and third-party retailer descriptions conflict on fork travel and handlebar width. This review therefore treats the Evans build as the exact specification and does not present retailer praise as an independent performance consensus.

Advantages and disadvantages

The useful comparison is whether the complete build suits the regular route, storage and service plan. A premium motor cannot compensate for poor fit, while a modest component can be entirely sensible on the right type of bike.

• Advantage: Accessible price and simple rear-hub system
• Advantage: Removable 375Wh battery
• Advantage: Wide tyres suit leisure tracks
• Advantage: Straightforward 1x8 gearing
• Disadvantage: Limited torque for steep technical climbs
• Disadvantage: Cable rather than hydraulic disc brakes
• Disadvantage: Specification inconsistencies require confirmation
• Disadvantage: Not equipped for commuting as standard

Buying checks and RideIn verdict

Confirm the exact product code, frame size, colour, battery capacity, assistance configuration and included equipment before paying. Ask which Evans branch or authorised dealer will handle electrical diagnosis, warranty labour and replacement components, then test the brakes, controls and fit before committing to regular use.

The Ridge 1.0 is a sensible electric leisure hardtail when expectations match its price and hardware. Use it for paths and forest roads, have assembly checked properly, and look to a stronger mid-drive with hydraulic brakes for demanding mountain terrain.