Blix Vika X Review | Next-Gen Tech Is Here!

Much like Twitter, XBox, the iPhone, and at least one film in the Fast and the Furious franchise, the new Vika X folding e-bike from Blix Bikes shows off its contemporary styling and high-tech features with an edgy ‘X’ designation.

The previous generation model, called the Vika + Flex, felt reminiscent of a classic car with its enamel-and-chrome trim. We loved its light and minimalistic frame, quality construction, simple operation, and practical folding design.

With the Vika X, Blix only added to that excellent foundation.

Now, instead of a retro feel, it sports a modern, European-inspired design appropriate for an e-bike from a Swedish-based manufacturer. It also comes decked out with a host of uncommon features—especially for a folding e-bike—including electronic shifting, an automatic assist mode, high and low beams, turn signals, and Bluetooth compatibility.

This newer version of the bike also features a torque sensor paired with its 500W rear hub motor. With this combination, pedaling the Vika X felt much like riding an analog bike, but with higher speeds and a much easier experience tackling hills.

Whether the X stands for “X-perimental” or “X-treme” or something else entirely, we’re not sure. But we couldn’t wait to test the Vika X and see if its real-world performance matched our high expectations. We dive into the results in our full review below!

The Vika X ships as a Class 2 e-bike set to 20 mph, but it can be unlocked to a Class 3 with pedal assist up to 28 mph through the Blix Connect app.

The bike’s 500W hub motor is paired with a torque sensor to provide a natural and responsive ride.

As with most folding e-bikes, the Vika’s frame is split by a central hinge in its down tube.

I started off my evaluation of the Vika X with a Speed Test. I took the bike to a flat segment of a paved multi-use path and rode it in each of its three (technically four, but more on that later) pedal assist settings.

The Vika ships as a Class 2 e-bike with throttle and pedal assist up to 20 mph, but it can be unlocked with the Blix Connect app to become a Class 3 e-bike with pedal assist up to 28 mph. I tested it in both modes; my results are shown in the graphic above.

With no pedal assist, the bike was surprisingly comfortable and easy to pedal—this isn’t something I can say about most e-bikes, especially those that are larger and heavier than the Vika X.

With the pedal assist system (PAS) active, the bike’s feel ranged from natural (like an analog bike) to peppy, depending on its PAS setting.

In this test, we usually look for consistent increases in speed and power, shown by a linear graph of our speed data. In this case, the bike’s Class 2 results aligned well with our ideal. However, the bike’s Class 3 results left room for improvement; the speeds I recorded were nearly identical to those of the Class 2 test if I kept the same cadence and pedal pressure.

I found that the bike could exceed 20 mph in Class 3 mode (hence the faster result of Turbo Mode), but I needed to work for the higher speeds by applying more effort with a faster-than-natural cadence.

The bike felt great in Class 2 mode, but with Class 3 capability, we recommend that Blix consider changing the Vika’s gearing. We recommend an 11- or 12-32T cassette that would increase the efficiency of the rider’s pedaling over that of the 13-32T cassette currently in use.

Otherwise, when testing the bike’s throttle, I found that its acceleration eased into life and then ramped up quickly. The bike felt safe and controlled but still fun; we appreciate that Blix prioritized this with a throttle that wasn’t too punchy.

The Vika X might be relatively light and small, but it means business! We think it would make an excellent commuter.

The 8-speed Microshift drivetrain is operated electronically by levers on the left handlebar.

The bike’s 48V, 614-Wh battery resides behind its seat tube.

In our Range Test (which is technically two tests), we pedaled the Vika X in Eco and Turbo modes until its battery expired. This allowed us to find its real-world minimum and maximum range of 39.6 and 63.6 miles.

The Vika’s results were well above average when compared to other folding e-bikes we’ve tested with rear hub motors; those used for comparison averaged 26.9 and 46.9 miles. There are likely a few factors that gave the Vika an advantage.

First, battery capacity; where the other folding e-bikes used for comparison had an average capacity of average of 535 watt-hours (Wh), the Vika X has a larger 614-Wh battery.

Second, speed was also a factor, especially in the Turbo Mode test. We performed our range test with the bike in Class 3 mode, but our average speed with a comfortable cadence was a relatively slow 15.9 mph; this helped to extend the battery charge over a greater distance. Riding at faster Class 3 speeds will undoubtedly use charge faster.

Third, the Vika’s torque sensor likely extended its range due to its ability to vary the motor’s output based on rider effort. Most folding bikes we’ve tested had cadence sensors and a constant level of motor output, which burned through battery charge faster.

Unusually, we noticed that the bike’s motor shut off when the battery reached 9% percent, but the display and electronic shifting system remained active until the bike shut down completely at roughly 6-7%. We’d have preferred the battery to read 0% when the motor stopped, but once we were aware, we could plan our trips accordingly.

A caveat regarding our Turbo Mode test: we performed this test twice, both before and after a firmware update. Our second test following the update showed an improved range of 7 miles (a substantial 23% increase). We did not redo the Eco mode test, but we expect the bike to reach and potentially exceed the 70-mile distance Blix advertises.

With the ability to cover such a substantial amount of ground on a single charge, the Vika’s range offers great potential for a bike that can fold up and come along on day trips and family getaways. We believe it’s also enough to make this a practical daily commuter.

Using the process explained in the graphic above, we tested the Vika X’s climbing ability in our infamous Hill Test. The bike did well, with an above-average throttle result and a slightly below-average pedal result when compared to similar folding e-bikes with 500W rear-hub motors.

Bikes in this category and sub-category average 1:29 in the throttle test and 1:19 when using their highest level of pedal assist at the time of writing. Based on these numbers, the Vika X was 8 seconds faster than average in the first portion of the test and 18 seconds slower than average in the second half.

Our test data suggests that peak motor wattage is a factor influencing throttle results. While we do not have this information for the Vika X’s motor, we can only speculate that its peak is somewhere between average and above average, though the bike’s lighter-than-average weight is also likely an advantage.

In the pedal test, there seemed to be two contributing factors to the Vika’s below-average performance. First, its motor’s torque output of 55 Newton meters (Nm) is somewhat below average. Additionally, while its torque sensor and varying motor output were advantages in the range test, these likely slowed the bike down slightly in the Hill Test.

Regardless, we found the Vika’s climbing ability to be more than adequate, as it gives riders the ability to choose how to approach hills. Those seeking a relaxed and easy experience might rely on the quick throttle, while those who prefer active pedaling can enjoy the ride without worrying about exhausting their energy reserves.

With a single frame size, the Vika X is recommended for riders from 4’10” to 6’2”.

Thicker-than-average 180mm rotors made a measurable difference in the bike’s stopping ability.

A module on the right handlebar controls the bike’s lights, turn signals, and horn.

We tested the Vika X’s custom-branded hydraulic disc brake system and determined its average stopping distance to be 18’6”. For comparison, other folding e-bikes we’ve tested averaged 21’2”, so the Vika stopped nearly 3 feet faster than average.

There seemed to be a few reasons why it did so well. First, the Vika has thicker-than-average brake rotors. Most folding e-bikes we have data for were equipped with hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors that were 1.8mm thick. The Blix bike uses 2.3mm rotors which are more effective at dissipating heat from braking.

Second, at 56 lbs, the Vika is lighter than average. As such, it is easier for the brake system to bring the bike to a stop since it also has less momentum.

Third, while this is speculation based on other bikes we have tested, it is possible that the battery’s placement behind the Vika’s seat tube had some effect.

In my personal testing of the bike, I found its brake system powerful and highly effective, though the brake levers felt somewhat “soft,” as they did not engage the brakes until they were roughly halfway depressed. As such, they were limited in their ability to modulate speed, but once they were fully engaged, the bike stopped safely and quickly each and every time.

With above average performance by the numbers and substantial braking power by feel, the Vika X gets our stamp of approval.

We liked the unique, robust, and highly functional cockpit layout.

A decorative plate on the head tube can be swapped out for a front basket if you’re looking to maximize utility.

We found the saddle comfortable and supportive.

The 20×2.4” Innova street tires added some cushion and stability to the ride.

The subject of ride quality is less measurable than the performance highlighted by our previous test sections, but it is no less important. We use the term to encompass all aspects of the bike that contribute to its feel and operation. Overall, the Vika X’s ride quality was excellent, but let us break down the details below.

As with most folding e-bikes, the Vika X is offered in a single frame size with a wide range of accommodation for riders of different heights. Blix advertises the bike as suitable for those from 4’10” to 6’2”; it features 12” of adjustment in saddle height and 6” in handlebar height to adapt to its rider’s size and preferred riding position.

At 5’11”, I am near the top of the bike’s recommended height range. The bike fit me well with room to spare; I had great leg extension and a comfortable handlebar height with a roomy-but-not-too-stretched reach. The bike’s saddle and grips felt cushy and enjoyable to use for long periods of time.

Due to its torque sensor, the ride experience felt natural and responsive. The bike’s handling was quick and had an airy quality that I attribute to its low weight and minimalistic frame. Bumps were noticeable due to the absence of a suspension, but the bike’s 20×2.4” tires provided stability, grip, maneuverability, and a small bit of cushion.

One tradeoff of the light frame to be aware of is the Vika’s somewhat modest payload capacity. At 312 lbs, it is still substantial but somewhat less than we have seen on some other recent folding e-bikes.

Pedaling felt natural and responsive due to the bike’s torque sensor, especially in its low assist settings. I appreciated the Vika’s ease of use; many bikes overcomplicate the PAS with too many assist settings, but Blix opted instead for three simple manual modes and an Auto mode.

The latter is part of the Vika X’s suite of high-tech features that include a color display with Bluetooth connectivity and an electronic shifting system. The bike’s control panel (on the left handlebar) includes a button to shuffle through PAS settings and levers for shifting gears. For clarity, the system is still cable-actuated at the derailleur.

When riding in Auto mode, the bike adjusts its power delivery and can shift gears based on the rider’s targeted power/cadence (both set through the Blix Connect app). I found the system very cool, though it did not seem to downshift properly; our contact at Blix advised us that the system would receive regular updates (every six mos) to improve functionality.

The bike also includes a control module on the right handlebar next to a half-twist throttle. The larger module operates the bike’s lights (with low and high beams), rear turn signals (integrated into the MIK-HD cargo rack), and its electronic horn. I appreciated all of these features, as I think they make sense on e-bikes, but they are not often present.

Regarding its folding ability, the Vika X is also highly effective. As with most bikes of this style, it features a telescoping/collapsible stem and a central hinge in its down tube, allowing the bike to effectively fold in half. This process was quick and smooth. We liked that Blix included a magnet to keep the bike together once folded.

Overall, we give the Vika X two thumbs up in ride quality!

The color display shows all the usual ride data, plus a bar indicating rider/motor power.

The bike steers predictably and reliably with a rigid fork.

The control panel/shift paddles on the left handlebar look and feel cool, unique, and high-tech.

A magnet on the rear axle lines up with a steel plate on the front to keep the bike together when folded.

A consistent theme of quality and feature-richness has defined our previous reviews of Blix e-bikes. The Vika X does not break with the brand’s tradition. Unlike many folding e-bikes, which often exist on the lower end of the price spectrum, the Vika stands apart with a somewhat higher price that is justified by a robust package of uncommon features.

We were impressed by its high-tech feel and its continually on-point performance in our standardized performance tests. It was fun, comfortable, and—perhaps most importantly—it proved to be one of the more practical folding e-bikes we’ve tested due to its low weight, simple folding mechanisms, and magnetic attachment point.

We look forward to seeing the Vika X’s tech on future Blix bikes, and we believe the brand hit a home run in this case, though the bike isn’t perfect. We look forward to a smoother operation of the automatic shifting system in the Auto PAS setting (this will happen soon), and we encourage Blix to adjust the gearing to make Class 3 riding more comfortable.

Otherwise, we happily recommend the Vika X to riders seeking a cool, practical ride to work or school. We think it would also be an excellent fit for those seeking the portability of a folding e-bike that is easier than most to lift. Finally, we think riders drawn to unique, techy features will pick up what the Vika X is putting down!

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Blix Vika X down in our comments section.