Testing the State Bicycle Co. 6061 E-Bike While Riding Over Snake River in Jackson, WY | Photo Rich Goodwin Mountain Weekly News
The standard E-bike these days is akin to the standard pick-up truck. They’re exceedingly heavy, abnormally powerful relative to the average user’s needs, and marketed to anyone who wants one. It feels as though manufacturers only ask what can we make instead of why should we make something. State Bicycle Co. answered the why first when stripping down the 6061 E-bike Commuter.
Mike Hardaker, Author and Gear Tester Talks about the State Bicycle 6061 E-Bike
The 6061 is a classically clean bike that doesn’t look like, or weigh, like its monster truck competitors.
Manufacturers ask what can be added to make it good. State Bicycle Co. looked at what they could take away to make it good. And I think they hit the nail on the head. As a matter of personal taste, I don’t want monster truck tires on my throttle controlled “bike” (re: electric motorcycle.)
State Bicycle Co. 6061 Commuter Frame Size
As the name entails, the State Bicycle Co 6061 is made of full aluminum. The standard tube shapes and solid matte paint job are aesthetically cohesive with the rest of State’s lineup. At 38 lbs., it is on the heavy side for non-ebikes of its genre, but a spectacular number for e-bikes in aggregate.
State Bicycle Co. 6061 Commuter Cockpit
There are no frills here: There are two standard break levers that pinch 160mm rotors. The left side features your controls. On top of the headset of this State Bicycle Co. E-Bike sits the clear, backlit display no larger than a typical ride computer.
The right side of the bar is empty because it’s a single speed. There is no twist throttle or trigger throttle.
The State Bicycle Co 6061 Commuter E-Bike is only pedal assist.
Single Speed Drivetrain
The rider enjoys a singlespeed set up and is pushed by a 36V 250 watt AKM rear brushless motor. Powered by an LG 36V 10Ah battery. The two capable and modest components make for one of the slimmest e-bikes on test. After 3.5 hours of charging you’re set for 18-24 miles of ride time battery life at the maximum (5) levels of assist. Or >100 miles of range at level 1 assist.
It’s a class one e-bike with a maximum speed of 20 mph.
The Ride
Realistically, the 20 mile range and 3.5 charge time are perfectly fine parameters for the everyday rider who is looking to commute. The assist is gentle and not overpowering. If you want an e-bike but don’t want to look like you’re riding a rocket ship, you’d be hard pressed to find a more inconspicuous bike.
State Bicycle Co. 6061 E-Bike Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight at 38 lbs
- Simple design resembling a regular bike
- Long range on low assist: over 100 miles
Cons:
- Limited Range on High Assist: 18-24 miles.
- No Throttle: Only pedal assist available.
- Single Speed: Limited gear range for hilly commutes.
Overall Impression
Here is where you need to be honest with yourself. How much do you really need? A majority of e-bike owners, or folks shopping for e-bikes do not need class 3 bikes. We do not need to go 35 miles per hour for 4 hours while carrying 400lbs of gear. If you do, I recommend buying a vehicle.
The State Bicycle Co 6061 Commuter E-Bike ($999) is an honest bike. It’s for folks who want the benefits of pedal assist with no egregious numbers that have become industry standards. Those exaggerated standards are also a contributing factor to high prices. This bike delivers on all it’s promises at a comfortable price for a daily commuter.
If you’re a regular commuter looking for some push behind those pedals, this is it. If you’re critical of aesthetic and practicality, this is it. The State Bicycle Co. 6061 Commuter is the e-bike for the realest.
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