Presenting the all-new Himiway C5, a full suspension electric bike with a moped-like appearance and a claimed 80 miles of range on a single charge. We’re going to test these claims with an 18-mile drive today. Although the MSRP is $2,300, prospective consumers might potentially save money by clicking the discount link that is provided below the video in the description box. However, we must carefully assess the C5 before deciding to buy it.
Our test includes challenging the bike on a 20% grade to assess its climbing capabilities. We’ll also take it for a ride on the beach to determine its performance on sand, a terrain that can pose challenges for many electric bikes. Additionally, we’ll test its acceleration, top speed, and braking system to gauge its overall performance and safety features.
Despite its promising features, one issue we’ve noticed is the chain touching the tire, which could impact the bike’s functionality and longevity. This observation underscores the importance of thorough testing before committing to a purchase.
Stay tuned as we put the Himiway C5 through its paces to determine whether it lives up to its claims and whether it’s truly worth the investment.
| Frame: | 6061 alloy 197x12mm rear axle |
| Motor: | 750w brushless gear hub |
| Speed: | 28 Mph (Class 3) |
| Display: | Himiway LCD |
| Throttle: | Thumb |
| Fork: | KKE R150S coil spring fork compression/ Rebound adjustable 15*135mm axle 1111 |
| Brakes: | Tektro HD-E350 |
| Pedal Assist: | 0-5 levels |
| Tires: | Kenda Himiway 20x4" fat tires |
| Saddle: | Moto-style saddle |
| Battery: | 48V 15Ah LG Lithium |
| Range: | 60-80miles |
| Weight: | 88lbs |
| Max Load: | 330lbs |
Unboxing and Design
Today, we’re diving into the unboxing and design of the Himiway C5 electric bike. Upon unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised to find a Himiway-branded coffee mug included. It’s a nice touch and sets the tone for what’s to come. Let’s take a closer look at this intriguing bike.
First off, let’s talk about the design. The Himiway C5 features a unique frame design that resembles that of a dirt bike. The battery is neatly mounted down low, and the bike boasts full suspension with an air shock in the rear. Interestingly, there’s no linkage in the suspension setup, which will be intriguing to test out in real-world riding scenarios.
Moving on to the tires, the C5 rolls on 20-inch Himiway by Kenda tires with a tread pattern that suggests they are primarily designed for street riding but can handle a bit of off-roading as well. These tires are 4 inches wide, providing stability and traction on various surfaces.
Let’s talk brakes. The C5 is equipped with Tektro 180 mm rotors, offering reliable stopping power. Unfortunately, during unboxing, a minor mishap occurred with one of the brake components, but we’ll sort that out shortly. The brake calipers are also from Tektro, ensuring consistent performance.
The wheels on the Himiway C5 are spoke wheels, chosen for their lightweight properties that aid in acceleration. While spoke wheels may be prone to damage in extreme conditions, they are generally preferred for their performance benefits.
Moving on to the unboxing experience, besides the coffee mug, the package includes essential tools, decals for customization, a headlight, pedals, and a derailleur guard for added protection. The charger is a 3-amp charger with a maximum charge of 54.6 volts, taking approximately 6.5 hours to fully charge the 20-amp hour battery.
Let’s not forget about the display and controls. The Himiway C5 features a bright display with color accents, showcasing battery levels, speed, trip information, and more. The controls include a thumb throttle, Shimano shifter, and Tektro hydraulic brake levers for a seamless riding experience.
In terms of dimensions and weight, the C5 has a maximum payload capacity of 330 lbs and is suitable for riders with heights ranging from 5’4″ to 6’3″. As a 6’5″ rider, I’m pushing the limits a bit, but we’ll see how it feels during the test ride.
Before hitting the road, I made some adjustments to the suspension to ensure optimal performance. The air shock in the rear is adjustable, allowing for fine-tuning based on riding preferences.
Now, it’s time for the test ride. The Himiway C5 feels solid and stable, thanks to its sturdy frame and well-balanced design. The throttle response is smooth, and the brakes offer reliable stopping power.
One standout feature during the test ride is the brake light, which illuminates when the brakes are engaged, adding to the safety aspect of the bike. The headlight also provides adequate illumination for nighttime rides.
So, the Himiway C5 combines a unique design with robust components to deliver an enjoyable riding experience. Whether cruising on city streets or exploring off-road trails, this electric bike is ready for adventure.
Himiway C5: Motor and Driving Test
Now, let’s get into the heart of the Himiway C5 – the motor. It features a powerful Himiway 750W nominal power motor, providing ample power for various riding conditions. Additionally, the rear light features a Himiway logo, adding to the bike’s branding elements.
As we continue our ride, let’s test out the top speed and acceleration of the Himiway C5. But before that, let’s tackle a 20% grade climb while I weigh 200 lbs. Using throttle only, let’s see how well the Himiway C5 handles this steep incline.
The bike shows us our power output in terms of a bar meter, and it impressively pulls us up the 20% grade on throttle alone. For a 750W nominal motor output, this performance is quite typical and showcases the torque the Himiway C5 is capable of delivering.
Now, let’s dial down the intensity a bit and explore the pedal-assist modes. Starting from pedal assist zero, I gradually increase to pedal assist levels 1, 2, and 3, feeling the incremental boost in power with each level. The Himiway features a torque sensor, which adjusts the power output based on how hard I’m pedaling. This sensor is great for a bike like this, offering a more natural riding experience.
Next up, let’s test the throttle-only acceleration from 0 to 20 mph. With a thumb throttle on the left and GPS in hand to track the speed, I accelerate smoothly and quickly reach 20 mph, demonstrating the bike’s responsive acceleration.
During the ride, I encountered varying terrain, including sand, which the Himiway C5 handled decently but showed its strengths on paved surfaces. The fat tires are more street-focused, and the power setup leans towards maximizing range rather than raw power, making it suitable for longer rides with a focus on efficiency.
Now, let’s talk about the bike’s speed limitations and adjustments. Out of the box, the throttle is limited to 20 mph, which is a common safety feature. Unlocking higher speeds may require delving into the settings, although this wasn’t explored fully during the ride.
One standout feature worth mentioning is the bike’s braking system. Equipped with Tektro 180 mm rotors and hydraulic brakes, the Himiway C5 offers excellent stopping power and control, even at higher speeds.
So, the Himiway C5 delivers a solid performance across different riding scenarios. It handles inclines well, offers smooth acceleration, and provides a comfortable riding experience, especially on paved roads and moderate terrains.
Battery and Range
The Himiway C5 comes equipped with a 22-amp controller, paired with a 48-volt system. When fully charged, the battery reaches approximately 54 volts. Multiplying the amperage (22 amps) by the voltage (54 volts) gives us nearly 1,200 watts of power. This calculation indicates the potential power output of the Himiway C5, provided the battery can sustain the 22-amp current.
Let’s take a closer look at the battery. It can be easily accessed by using the key provided, which has the Himiway logo on one side and the brand name on the other. There’s also a USB-C port available on the battery for charging external devices like cell phones. To remove the battery, simply insert the key on the designated side and unlock it. The battery is mounted securely, possibly on a rail system, ensuring stability during rides.
Examining the battery details, we find that it has a rating of 47.1 volts, 904 watt-hours, and a capacity of 19.2 amp-hours. The website lists the battery as using Samsung or LG cells, indicating quality and reliability. This 48-volt, 20-amp battery provides ample power for the Himiway C5’s performance requirements.
Now, let’s head back home and check the final range of the bike. During the ride, we observed the power consumption and remaining battery bars. With three out of five bars remaining and covering a distance of approximately 17 miles with a ride time of 25 minutes, we can estimate the average speed and power usage of the bike. It’s important to note that these figures can vary based on factors such as rider weight, terrain, and riding style.
Himiway C5: Conclusions
After thoroughly reviewing the Himiway C5 electric bike, I have two main thoughts to share.
Firstly, let’s discuss the price. Priced at $2,300, the Himiway C5 isn’t the most affordable option in the electric bike market. However, there may be discounts available, and purchasing through the provided link in the video description could offer additional savings. Supporting the reviewer’s work by buying through their affiliate link can be a way to show appreciation for their detailed reviews.
Secondly, the standout feature of the Himiway C5 is its unique style. There are very few electric bikes that match its distinctive look, making it a visually appealing choice for riders. However, considering its price point, some users might expect higher speeds and more acceleration compared to other options in the market. Additionally, the seat comfort might vary for different riders, with a slightly firmer feel towards the back.
One aspect to note is the chain alignment, which may require adjustment on certain gear settings to avoid rubbing against the tire. Despite these considerations, the Himiway C5’s torque sensor adds to its appeal, providing a responsive and natural riding experience.
In conclusion, the Himiway C5 is a visually striking electric bike with unique aesthetics. While it may not be the fastest or most budget-friendly option available, its style and functionality make it a compelling choice for riders seeking a blend of street legality, comfort, and distinctive design.
