I wanted the Amped Phylion, but they were out, so I ended up with the Ping. I think I'm happier that way anyway. No, there is no pedal assist, but I'm the type to just mash the pedals anyway, so it's kind of irrelevant. I clip in, even during winter when I know a lot of commuters switch to platform pedals. I've lost 10 pounds in the past two months from riding my electric bike... and I wasn't really looking to do that! I consider myself in good shape, just wanted to arrive not so sweaty.
$700 for a new bike? Heck, I put it on my 12? year old hybrid, which was probably 350 new. I almost bought a $250 new hybrid, but opted to just beat this one to a pulp first. My total expenses were: $330 for Amped, 450 for Ping, 75 to replace some components on my bike that had to go. I also ended up spending another 100 on GOOD tires. $950ish total. I can take my time and look for a new bike that I want to transfer it to, and I'm not limited to the models that Trek has chosen. I can go with virtually any 700c bike when the time comes.