Ok, my local Wal-Mart had an Ezip Trailz for well over a year sitting in the rack for $299.00 and no one bought it. They reduced it to clearance to $200, no takers. When they reduced it to $150.00, I bought it. I've been using it now since Feb. 15, 2008 for almost daily rides to the grocery store and other points around my very small town. If you think an electric bike is silent, think again. The motor is very loud and gets a lot of attention from people and dogs. Not good if you don't like attracting attention. My range is only about 5 miles. I'm sure this is due to the bike and battery sitting in the store for over a year with no charging or anything. I've called Currie 3 times so far, but after long periods of hold time, have still not talked to a human about possibly getting a new battery from the warranty. Aside from the low range and the motor noise, it has been a good strong bike. Very rear-heavy with one battery. I can imagine how heavy it would be with two batteries. The charger is separate and is not built-in. You can leave the battery on the bike and plug the charger into it with the 3 prong plug. The battery I have is fully charged in 2 hours or less after a ride that almost drains it. I also wish there was rear suspension.
And karma, regarding your statement about your bike "proshop" refusing to work on Curries or any other Walmart bike is a common tactic of bike shops, which are mostly mom and pop stores who can't compete with the giants. It in no way means the quality of a Currie or any other bike is inferior. It's just their way of trying to brainwash the public into thinking only their high-price bikes will do. I've checked out all those $1000+ bikes that are available and find them to be a big ripoff since their projected range is no better than even the cheapest bikes. I know looks is what some of you are after but not me. Range is at the top of my list. If you think buying a $1600 bike makes your ride better than the others, you're sadly mistaken. The biggest problem I see with Currie is their very poor service. You have to work your arse off to get any service from them. But it's that way almost everywhere these days. They get your mass-merchandise money and wait for the next sucker, which they know will come along.