Varun S700-1 vs S700-2: What £10 Actually Buys You
Two nearly identical Varun city e-bikes sit just £10 apart. We break down what that small price gap actually buys, from components to UK legality, so you can choose with confidence.
Choosing between two nearly identical electric bikes can feel tricky. The VARUN S700-1 and VARUN S700-2 city e-bikes sit just £10 apart in price, yet many buyers wonder if that small difference matters.
In this guide, we look at what £10 typically buys you in the budget e-bike world. We also cover UK law, realistic range, and the small details that help you pick the right one.
Varun S700-1 and S700-2: Two Very Close Cousins
The Varun range is known for affordable city bikes. Both the VARUN S700-1 City Electric Bike and the VARUN S700-2 City Electric Bike are step-through models designed for easy urban riding.
Step-through frames make getting on and off simple, even in a coat or work clothes. Both bikes use the same basic platform, so you can expect a similar ride feel, weight and handling.
The main difference is the model number. The S700-2 is a slightly newer version, according to Biktron's product pages. That often means small component changes rather than a completely different bike.
Before you buy, open both product pages and compare the full spec sheets. Look for any changes in battery size, gear shifters, brakes or display type.
What They Share
Both are legal 250W e-bikes for UK roads. The motor assists up to 15.5 mph, and you still need to pedal to get assistance.
You can expect a removable battery on both models, which makes charging indoors easy. The city-style tyres and comfortable saddle are designed for short daily trips.
What to Check on Each Product Page
- Battery capacity in watt hours (Wh). A higher number means more range.
- Gear system. Does one have more speeds or a well known brand like Shimano?
- Brakes. Mechanical disc brakes are common at this price, but check for brand names.
- Display. The S700-2 may have a slightly newer LCD screen with more readouts.
What Does £10 Buy in the E-Bike World?
At the budget end, a £10 price gap rarely means a huge upgrade. Manufacturers often use that difference to cover a small component swap or a colour change.
Sometimes it funds a better pedal sensor, a softer saddle, or a more reliable brake lever. These tweaks feel minor on day one, but they can add up over hundreds of miles.
In the case of the S700 series, the £10 likely buys you a slightly revised production run. That could mean updated firmware, a more durable cable, or a nicer finishing detail.
Battery Upgrades
If the S700-2 has a larger battery, the extra £10 is excellent value. A few extra amp hours can add five to ten miles of real world range.
Check the watt hour rating on each product page. The S700-2 may list 360Wh while the S700-1 lists 324Wh, for example. Always confirm before you order.
Comfort and Components
Small changes to the saddle or grips can make a big difference on a 30 minute commute. If the S700-2 has a gel saddle or lock on grips, that £10 is well spent.
Also look at the gear shifter. A name brand like Shimano feels smoother and lasts longer than an unbranded part. If the S700-2 upgrades to a Shimano shifter, that is a solid win.
UK Law: Both Bikes Are Legal as Pedal Cycles
In the UK, an electric bike must meet EAPC rules to be ridden without a licence, tax or insurance. Both Varun models are sold as EAPCs, so they are road legal.
The motor must be rated at 250W maximum and assistance must stop at 15.5 mph. You must be 14 or older to ride one on public roads. The government's e-bike rules cover the details.
The Cycling UK guidance confirms that a throttle is allowed only if it works up to 3.7 mph without pedalling. Beyond that, you must pedal. The Wikipedia overview of e-bike laws explains how the UK rules compare globally.
The 15.5 mph Limit and 250W Motor
Both bikes cut assistance at 15.5 mph. You can pedal faster, but the motor will not help you. That keeps you legal on cycle lanes and roads.
The 250W rating is continuous power, not peak power. On a steep hill, the motor can briefly deliver more without breaking the law.
Age and Licence Rules
You do not need a driving licence, road tax or MOT for either bike. You also do not need compulsory insurance, though many riders choose to buy cover anyway.
The minimum age is 14. If you are younger, you cannot ride these legally on UK public roads, even with a helmet.
Range and Speed: Managing Expectations
Manufacturer range figures are often measured in ideal conditions. Expect less range on cold days, on hilly routes or if you are a heavier rider.
Varun does not list a single range for these bikes, but similar 36V city e-bikes often manage between 25 and 40 miles per charge. Check the product page for the official figure.
Real world range depends on how much you use the highest assist level. If you ride gently on flat ground, you will get closer to the manufacturer number.
Manufacturer vs Real-World Range
Biktron lists the manufacturer quoted range for each bike. Treat that as a best case number. On a windy day in the UK, you might see 20% less.
Battery age also matters. After two years of regular charging, most lithium batteries hold less energy. That is normal and not a fault.
Hills, Cold Weather and Rider Weight
- Hills drain the battery faster because the motor works harder.
- Cold weather reduces battery output temporarily. Store the battery indoors to help.
- Heavier riders get less range than lighter riders on the same bike.
Who Should Buy the S700-1?
If you ride mostly on flat city streets and want the lowest price, the VARUN S700-1 is a strong choice at £699.
The S700-1 gives you the same legal motor and step-through comfort as the S700-2. You will not notice a £10 difference on a short hop to the shops.
Budget buyers who plan to upgrade components later often prefer the cheapest base model. The savings can go towards a better lock or a helmet.
Flat City Commutes
On a mostly flat route, the motor assists less often, so both bikes feel the same. The S700-1 will cover the same distance on a charge as the S700-2 if the battery is identical.
If your commute is under five miles each way, you will probably charge once or twice a week. The S700-1 handles that without breaking a sweat.
Budget Buyers
£699 is already a very low price for a brand new e-bike. Spending the absolute minimum makes sense if you are new to e-bikes and want to test the waters.
Remember to budget for a good quality lock, lights if not included, and a helmet. Those add around £100 to your final spend.
Who Should Buy the S700-2?
If the VARUN S700-2 has even one small upgrade, the £709 price is worth it. A better saddle or smoother gear change makes every ride nicer.
The S700-2 is also the newer model, so it may receive longer software support and better spare parts availability over the next few years.
For the cost of two coffees, you future proof your purchase. That is a smart move if you plan to keep the bike for three years or more.
The £10 Upgrade
Think about what £10 buys elsewhere: a takeaway meal, a month of a streaming service, or a couple of pints. Here it buys a slightly better bike.
If you ride daily, you will feel the benefit of that upgrade on day one. Over 500 rides, that is 2p per journey. Good value.
Long-Term Value
Newer production runs often fix small faults found in early batches. The S700-2 may have a stronger battery connector or a more reliable motor controller.
When you sell the bike in three years, a newer model with a higher spec usually holds its value slightly better than the older base version.
Practical Buying Tips for Both Bikes
Whichever model you pick, order from a UK retailer like Biktron so you get UK warranty and support. Check the warranty length before you pay.
Look for a bike with a removable battery. That lets you charge indoors and reduces the risk of theft when you park outside.
Consider the weight. These city e-bikes usually weigh around 22 to 25 kg. Make sure you can lift yours onto a train or into a shed.
Aftercare and Servicing
E-bikes need the same care as normal bikes. Keep the tyres pumped, oil the chain, and have a bike shop check the brakes every six months.
The motor and battery are sealed units, so they need little maintenance. Just avoid pressure washing the bike, as that can force water into the electrics.
Insurance and Security
You are not legally required to insure an e-bike in the UK, but it is a good idea. Home contents insurance often covers theft, but check the policy.
Use a Sold Secure rated lock, and lock the frame and battery to a solid object. Register the bike on BikeRegister to help police return it if stolen.
How These Bikes Compare to Other Budget City E-Bikes
The city e-bike category is crowded. You can find models from £500 to over £1500, but the Varun S700 series sits at the affordable end.
Compared to a folding e-bike, the S700 models have larger wheels and a more stable ride. They are better for potholes and longer commutes.
Compared to a fat tyre e-bike, the S700 series is lighter and easier to pedal without assistance. That matters if you run out of battery on the way home.
Value for Money
At £699 and £709, these Varun bikes undercut many rivals with similar specs. The price includes a battery, charger and UK delivery, which some brands charge extra for.
You do not get hydraulic brakes or a mid drive motor at this price, but for commuting on flat roads, you do not need those upgrades.
When to Spend More
If you live in a very hilly area, consider a bike with a torque sensor and larger battery. That might cost £200 to £400 more but will feel stronger on steep climbs.
For most UK city riders, a cadence sensor and 250W motor are enough. The Varun S700 bikes handle gentle hills and stop start traffic without complaint.
Final Verdict: Is the £10 Worth It?
Yes, the £10 is worth it. The VARUN S700-2 gives you a newer model for a tiny price increase, and any component upgrade is a bonus.
If money is extremely tight, the VARUN S700-1 is still a solid budget e-bike. You will get the same core riding experience.
But for most people, the S700-2 is the smarter buy. The £10 difference is less than a week's bus fare, and it buys you peace of mind.
Our Recommendation
Choose the S700-2 unless you find a significant discount on the S700-1. The price gap is so small that you might as well take the newer model.
Before you order, double check the spec sheets side by side. If the S700-2 adds a bigger battery or Shimano gears, that seals the deal.
Alternatives to Consider
If you want more range or a fat tyre option, look at other Varun bikes or browse the full city e-bike range.
For more detailed buying advice, check the e-bike buying guides. They cover folding bikes, mountain bikes and legal questions.
Frequently asked questions
Are both Varun S700 models legal to ride in the UK without a licence?
Yes. Both bikes meet EAPC rules: 250W motor, 15.5 mph assisted speed limit, and pedal assist. You must be 14 or older, but no licence, tax or MOT is needed.
What is the real range of these bikes?
Varun does not publish one range for both, but similar 36V city e-bikes typically give 25 to 40 miles per charge. Expect less in cold weather or on hills.
Should I buy the S700-1 or the S700-2?
The S700-2 is the better buy for most riders. For just £10 more, you get a newer model that may include small upgrades like a better saddle or battery. Check the spec sheets first.
Can I ride these bikes in the rain?
Yes, they are designed for light rain. Avoid deep puddles and pressure washing, as water can damage the electrics. Dry the bike after wet rides.
Do I need insurance for an e-bike?
Not legally, but it is wise. Home insurance may cover theft. Consider a dedicated bike policy for accident and theft cover.
