The Chinese e-bike company is introducing the ADO A20F XE, an updated version of an existing model that is also legal to ride in Germany due to its CE certification and pedelec categorization. Now that we could use the bike for actual riding,
Thorben recently had the opportunity to test out Utopia’s e-bike, but aside from that, we mostly used e-scooters. Given that the majority of Chinese e-bikes are illegal in Germany, as is frequently and justly criticized, it makes sense. The ADO A20F XE is a pedelec, which is also permitted for use on German roads, rather than an e-bike in the legal sense.
Only the XE version, commonly known as the EU version by ADO, sans “Throttle,” qualifies as a pedelec. It is specifically made for markets with higher regulations, like Germany. When a bicycle has an electric motor but no drivetrain and can only travel at a top speed of 25 km/h, the vehicle is referred to as a pedelec. A pedelec does not need an insurance license plate or a moped driver’s license, in contrast to “genuine” e-bikes.
| Brand | ADO |
| Model | A20 XE |
| Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Brake | Front: Mechanical Disc Brake 3.0, Double Push System |
| Rear: Mechanical Disc Brake 3.0, Double Push System | |
| Transmission | Shiman0 7 Speed |
| Shock-absorption | Front Fork and Saddle Tube Double Shock-absorption |
| Front & Rear Hub Type | Integrated Molding Hub |
| Small Bell | Mechanical Bell |
| Brake Handle | Left/Right |
| Mobile Phone Charging Station | 5V/1A USB Type A+ Charging Base |
| Light | Certified Lighting & Reflectors |
| Rear Wheel Iron Fender | Yes |
| Rear Rack | Yes |
| Operating Temperature | -10~40°C |
| Storage Temperature | -20~50°C |
| IP Rating | IPX5 |
| Tire Size | 20 x 1.95 Inches Rubber Pneumatic Tire |
| Rated Power | CE Version：250W |
| Max. Speed | 25KM/H |
| Range | Electric Range: <60km |
| Assisting Range: <80km | |
| Battery Capacity | 36V 10.4AH |
| Charging Time | 6 Hours |
| Gear Ratio | (28-14):48 |
| Payload | ≤120kg |
| Net Weight | 22KG |
| Gross weight | 30KG |
| Unfolding Size | 1550 x 530 x 1100mm |
| Folding Size | 900 x 430 x 700mm |
| Carton Size | 910 x 400 x 680mm |
| Color | Black, White, Grey |
| Certification | CE |
ADO A20 XE: Design and Equipment
In fact, we’ve previously tested the ADO A20F, the first iteration of the wheel. Although this model was a pedelec and there were only minor modifications, it lacked a CE label at the time.
The bicycle is 174 cm in length, 53 cm at the handlebars, and 120 cm in height. Of course, it can be folded down to become a folding bike, shrinking to 98 x 45 x 77 cm. Even when folded, it is not lightweight at 30 kg and difficult to travel. The 20 x 4 inch tires’ thickness is particularly noticeable. The wheel is also offered with smaller tires as the ADO A20.
The bicycle is sent folded up in a big package rather than completely constructed. Attaching the handlebars, saddle, pedals, and stand still is required, but the provided instructions make this clear. Asking for assistance while taking the bike out of the box is a good idea, but other than that, construction is simple.
The construction of the extra luggage rack is not properly explained. I was still able to connect it with the aid of some photographs, and it appears that I did it correctly as so far it has held up. Then, to make sure it is always visible, the rear light should be moved from the saddle to the luggage rack.
I didn’t observe anything odd during the construction process, either good or bad. The bike was undamaged and stored nicely, and installation was simple. Other than that, you may start driving right away. The brakes and tires just need a little air.
A number of assembly-related accessories and tools were offered. All of this, regrettably, is not of a particularly high caliber. It’s enough to put the bike together, but once it’s done, some of the wrenches are already bent or have wear spots since the quality of the material is really rather poor. I was relieved to be able to easily use an electric air pump to change the air pressure in the tires since the provided air pump for the tires is probably one of the cheapest items you can purchase.
Front and back illumination are present. The e-engine bike’s powers the front light, while batteries power the back light. There is only one reflector/eye cat’s in each of the spokes, but there are extra reflectors in the front, back, and on the pedals as needed. Here, you need two. Although few people will stop you for doing this, strictly speaking, that is insufficient.
However, what is most significant is that the bike has finally obtained a CE label, which was still absent from some of the brand’s earlier models.
ADO A20 XE: Motor and Driving
The engine has a 250 watt output. As was already indicated, this particular model of the bike only has pedal support for speeds up to 25 km/h, not a fully electric drive. Therefore, the 10.4 Ah battery should have a range of up to 80 kilometers. ADO specifies a charge time of 4 to 6 hours. The values appear to be accurate because I never left the battery plugged in for six hours and it was always full after charging. If you take the battery out of the bike, it may be charged separately.
Additionally, the A20F XE is outfitted with everything required to be operated on public roads. There are two disc brakes, which may have been initially set a touch too loosely but can be easily tightened. The top speed, which I already indicated, is 25 km/h, after which the motor support stops and you must pedal on your own.
The bike’s wide tires make it primarily suitable for off-road riding. It drives well here too, albeit it’s nearly a little bit wasted in inner-city traffic. In order to effectively place your feet on the ground when seated on the saddle, the saddle and handlebars need to be adjusted a little too high in my opinion. I’m 1.78 tall, so you might have less of a problem if you have very long legs.
Nevertheless, especially during rush hour, I can’t really appreciate the pedelec in the city center. At every traffic signal in central Cologne, there are so many other bicycles and walkers that you can scarcely use the pedal assistance because there isn’t enough room to truly be able to speed. I’m concerned about someone kicking their heels directly in front of me, even on the lowest setting. Maybe it’s just that I’m not accustomed to riding pedelecs in general. However, I didn’t particularly enjoy the stop-and-go driving between red lights and having to constantly watch my speed. After all, despite the weight, starting off without pedal help in the lower gears is very simple.
When you have room, it’s different. Then, with just a little effort on your part, you can also switch to the maximum setting and let the motor propel you to 25 km/h in a matter of seconds. You can fully enjoy the drive assistance, especially on inclines, and driving is definitely more relaxing. In Cologne, there aren’t many hills (and on my way to work).
Once you leave the asphalt and cobblestones, the large tires are much more obvious. It’s a lot of fun to drive on any kind of terrain, whether it’s gravel, a dirt road, or the forest floor. I think long bike trips outside of major cities are when the pedelec shines.
ADO A20 XE: Conclusions
I don’t have many troubles with the ADO A20F XE, and I’m generally happy with it. The battery lives up to its claims, the frame appears sturdy and securely welded, and the riding comfort is excellent on any surface thanks to the wide tires. It is also safe to use in Germany, which is not always the case with Chinese-made electric bikes (and e-scooters).
Although the weight is a drawback, you barely notice it while driving. Only when you move the bike in a car does the ability to fold the bike actually make sense. Simply be aware of what you’re signing up for. The ADO A20 XE with the smaller tires should at the very least be taken into consideration if you’re searching for a pedelec that is as light and economical as feasible. However, you can look at the A20F XE if you want a pedelec with big tires.
ADO A20 XE: Price and Where to buy cheaper?Â
Direct orders for the pedelec can be placed with manufacturers like ADO. Delivery takes place within 7–10 business days, and shipping is free. There are no taxes or customs because the shipment is coming from Poland.
Black, gray, and white are the only colors offered for the wheel. Personally, I like the white model, which we also received. To truly get the pedelec version, be sure to get the version without the “throttle” when placing your order. It costs £1,499 euros. The ADO A20 XE, which has narrower tires but a nearly identical data sheet, costs €300 less, or €1,199.
