Ride quality can be a tough thing to get right, and it’s often where we see budget bikes showing their limits. I wouldn’t say that’s the case for the Poodle. Puckipuppy appears to have put in decent thought on the overall feel and characteristics of the bike.
One example is the adjustability. The Poodle features a 0-90 degree adjustable stem, as well as an adjustable seatpost. The stem allows riders to dial in a riding position that works for them; while the stepthrough frame generally lends itself towards a more upright stance, the option to go a bit more aggressive is there thanks to the adjustability.
As for fit, Puckipuppy says that the Poodle can accommodate riders from 5’3″ to 6’4″. While this isn’t wildly off target, taller riders will struggle to get proper leg extension. I’m 6’3″ and felt that the reach was comfortable, but my legs were rather cramped. Above about 6’1″, the Poodle is passable, but not perfect in terms of sizing. However, riders on the shorter end of that range will likely fit well.
The front coil fork does a respectable job of soaking up bumps and uneven pavement. It does feel slightly sticky under larger compressions, but that’s not unexpected at this price level. Overall, it does add some extra cushion, and riders that want suspension will be pleased.
One particular area I want to highlight is the stability and handling. At class 3 speeds, the Poodle feels settled and predictable. This is key on a purpose-built commuter, and I’d feel comfortable riding this on the road. Generally, the ride quality is solid, especially on a $1000 bike.
Puckipuppy also offers even more value with an included accessory pack. This package is extensive – it includes a rear rack, alloy fenders, front basket, protective cover, air pump, helmet, glasses, cargo bag, and (believe it or not) more. I will say that certain parts of this package wouldn’t be my first choice – A higher quality helmet and air pump would be things to purchase separately if you don’t own them. However, the rest of the kit does add real utility, and therefore real value.
One spot for improvement is motor engagement. The cadence sensor is a little inconsistent, and the power delivery isn’t always as smooth as we might hope. Once you’re up to speed, it’s less of an issue, but starting out can feel a little choppy. I also noticed some overrun. As a general rule of thumb, the sensor seems to lag behind rider input by an extra second or two.
The other potential improvement to be made is the LCD display. The battery readout is expressed in a long bar as opposed to a percentage. We also found it to be inconsistent, and consequently, it was hard to predict the bike’s remaining range.
Outside of a few quirks, the big message here is that the Poodle does offer great value and a respectable ride quality. It feels safe, reliable, and the long list of extras is a nice plus.