Initial funding for the brand-new e-folding bike Honbike HF01 came from Indigogo. The black model may presently be delivered in three working days, and all other colors (black/red and black/white) should be available starting in the first week of August, according to the manufacturer. The folding mechanism and incredibly low-maintenance driving system, in addition to the unique design, are particularly striking.
Although there is a lot to learn about the Honbike, the driveshaft transmission is the one technical feature that sets it apart from all other e-bikes on the market.
On this one, there is only a spinning shaft enclosed in a protective container; there is no chain or belt drive.
IMTEST has thoroughly evaluated the Honbike e-folding bike now that it is on the market. The e-bike was brought in a very small box, but in addition to the protective styrofoam, it was wrapped tightly in plastic. It was simple and quick to assemble the bike. On the other side, the initial start-up was a little more challenging. Because the Honbike app is required for the bike to function. The foldable bike must first be registered and Bluetooth-connected to the phone by the new owner. In this manner, the bike’s immobilizer is also available to the driver.
However, this e-bike is more than simply a drivetrain model. Watch my test ride video below to see all the wonderful features that set this e-bike apart. Continue reading to learn more about the Honbike in detail.
| Motor: | 250W front hub motor |
| Top speed: | 25 km/h (15.5 mph) |
| Range: | 40 km (25 mi) claimed range |
| Battery: | 36V 6Ah (216 Wh) |
| Weight: | 20.8 kg (45.9 lb) |
| Brakes: | Mechanical disc brakes |
| Tires: | 20” spokeless tires |
| IP rating: | IPX4/P65 rating |
| Dimensions folded: | 39” x 26” |
| Extras: | Driveshaft, triple sensor pedal assist (gyro, torque and cadence), LCD display with speedometer, battery gauge, PAS level indicator, odometer, tripmeter, light status indicator,front and rear LED lights, 5 speed settings, bell, fenders included standard |
Honbike HF01: Design and Build Quality
The Honbike was modified for use in Europe and North America from a Japanese design that was the recipient of numerous international prizes.
The mounting of the brakes, which doesn’t seem safe or practical, is one of two elements that instantly draw attention. The saddle’s design also draws attention. Here, the driver experiences a sense of falling forward, especially if they momentarily remove their hands off the handlebars in front of a stop sign.
In reality, the Japanese model was so popular that several businesses allegedly stole the design to rebrand it globally in an effort to outdo Honbike.
Origami must have had an impact on the Japanese engineers because the bike folds up neatly and tightly. Additionally, it has a cute tiny flip-out stand to support it when it is folded (separate from the normal kickstand to support it in the unfolded position).
The owner must be careful not to squeeze his fingers when folding the bike. The pedals, saddle, and handlebars are all still very simple to use. It takes a lot of effort to fold the wheel in the middle since you have to release an anchor while simultaneously pulling back a little switch with one finger.
At this stage, it also requires some strength to unfold. There is merely another approach. The frame has a handle that can be used for carrying. However, the small bike is not lightweight at 20.8 kg.
The e-bike is more responsive because to the aforesaid triple sensor pedal assistance. There is a gyroscope sensor in addition to a cadence sensor for measuring pedal speed and a torque sensor for determining how hard the rider is pedaling. When attacking a hill, the gyro is utilized to determine the incline and add more power. Only high-end electric bikes have featured it in the past, and even then, it wasn’t particularly widespread.
While some e-bikes are true monsters, others are compact and useful. The new Honbike is a member of the second group and comes equipped with a variety of characteristics not available on many other e-bikes.
The very impressive translation or driving mechanism is one thing. Instead of using chains and belts, the Honbike prefers to employ a drive shaft in this situation. This offers a number of benefits, not the least of which is that the system is fully insured ex-works and the manufacturer guarantees little maintenance up to a frame of 40,000 kilometers. Additionally, skirt hems and pants legs are also guaranteed not to tangle.
Its distinctive appearance is partly due to the wheels’ single-side support. The back wheel is supported on the left side, while the front wheel is given a “righty” fork. Since this e-bike is primarily used in urban areas, suspension wasn’t strictly necessary.
Nevertheless, the e-bike has a unique design in addition to its electronics.
Honbike HF01: Motor and Driving
The Honbike’s size is immediately reduced to an appropriate level by the folding mechanism. A 250 watt engine on the front hub provides the necessary propulsion while driving, and a hill start aid is also present. On a display built into the handlebars, which adapts brightness to ambient light, the driver can readily read the speed and battery level. Gyroscopes give an extra layer of security. The motor is automatically turned off if the Honbike leans more than 30 degrees to one side in order to prevent a fall. The compact e-folding bike’s battery may be taken out, and a power bank is an additional option for extending its range.
The maximum speed is 15.5 mph, or 25 km/h as required by the EU. A US version that could travel at 20 mph would be fantastic, but perhaps that day is still far off. Currently, 15.5 mph isn’t too bad for riding around cities, especially if there is a decent bike lane or trail nearby. 15.5 mph seems really slow when you’re trying to stay up with moving automobiles while sharing the lane.
There are five electrical support levels on the e-bike. No matter which speed the driver selects, starting from a standing start requires a lot of strength. You can’t help yourself here to gain your footing easier at first because the bike just has one speed. After a few kicks, the driver receives a solid boost, much like a back wheel hub motor. Driving isn’t quite as smooth as a result.
Honbike HF01: Battery and Range
Due to the little battery, the range is likewise subpar. The 216 Watt hours battery is small, which is convenient if you want to carry it without taking up much room in your suitcase. But if you operate at maximum power, it will quickly deplete. If you only use the lowest pedal assist level, you can achieve the claimed 40 km of range, but as most users are in the middle, you won’t be able to travel as far.
However, this is an urban e-bike once more. In the city, the majority of riders don’t travel more than 10 miles, thus the Honbike has more than adequate capacity for that. Although a larger battery might enable better long-distance cruising for leisure or recreational riding, I sincerely doubt anyone will purchase this particular e-bike for that purpose. There are too many other e-bikes available for leisure use.
Honbike HF01: Conclusions
The Honbike HF01 is a true eye-catcher because of its unique motor system, the rear wheel suspension, and the saddle. Although the electric assistance isn’t nearly as seamless, the e-folding bike can still be a useful travel companion.
The Honbike thus makes a lot of sense for the kind of riding it is intended for. It boasts low maintenance drivetrain and city specifications to make commuting easy. For city riders, the accompanying fenders, bell, and other commuting conveniences are much more useful. The Honbike is a practical model for everyone who recognizes the benefits of folding bikes and is familiar with the folding technology.
That is one of the benefits of an e-bike market that is so diverse. The Honbike is an affordable option if you’re looking for something special, lightweight, portable, and simple to use. You should seek elsewhere if you want to hit 30 mph or ramp over potholes with large tires.
The new Honbike e-folding bike made its debut. It may already be delivered in black within three business days, and two further colors will be available as of August 1st. In its online shop, Honbike offers its folding bike for 2,199 euros including taxes.
