Greetings fellow e-bike enthusiasts! I’m John from Electric Bike Report, and today we’re diving into the intriguing world of the iGo Outland Cabot RS. This commuter e-bike isn’t your average ride; it comes packed with features that not only make it a reliable urban companion but also enable it to conquer some off-road adventures.
Join me as we explore the unique attributes that set the Cabot RS apart, and let’s embark on a ride to uncover the secrets that make this electric bike stand out from the crowd.
But before we delve into the details of the Cabot RS, I’m thrilled to announce that we have some exciting e-bike giveaways on the horizon. Stay tuned for the chance to win your very own electric bike and enhance your riding experience. Now, let’s shift our focus to the iGo Outland Cabot RS and discover the features that make it a commuter e-bike with a twist of adventure.
| FRAME | Hydroformed Alloy |
| MOTOR | iGO DRIVE RS 500W mid motor, 48V |
| TORQUE | up to 130Nm |
| SENSOR | Internal Torque, Cadence, Speed |
| FORK | Suntour XCM32 HLO DS suspension |
| SHIFTERS | SHIMANO ALIVIO 9-speed Rapidfire Plus |
| STEM | 45mm with 3 degree rise, 31.8mm clamp dia. |
| BRAKE LEVERS | TEKTRO HDE350 with power cut off switch |
| BRAKE CALIPERS | TEKTRO HDE350 Hydraulic Disc |
| TIRES | SCHWALBE HURRICANE 27.5”x2.4” |
| BATTERY | 48V | 15Ah | 720Wh |
| RANGE | 95km |
| BIKE WEIGHT (without battery) | 23.3kg (51.4 lbs) |
| WEIGHT CAPACITY | 125kg (275 lbs) |
| BATTERY WEIGHT | 3.5kg (7.7 lbs) |
Design and Build Quality
iGo’s Outland Cabot RS stands out in the electric bike market with its unique approach to design and versatility. As part of the Outland series, the Cabot RS shares the same frame and motor with its counterparts but differentiates itself in its outfitting. The Outland series is geared towards off-road riding, and while the Cabot RS leans slightly more towards commuting, it still holds its ground on unpaved terrains.
One standout feature enhancing its off-road capabilities is the Suntour XCM32 suspension fork. With 80mm of travel, it may not be designed for rocky trails, but it excels on dirt or gravel paths, providing a smooth and controlled ride. The Schwalbe Hurricane tires further contribute to its adaptability, with a size of 27.5 inches by 2.4 inches. These tires strike a balance between street and off-road treads, ensuring stability, low rolling resistance, and enhanced grip on unpaved surfaces.
At the heart of the Cabot RS is its powerful 500W mid-drive motor. Utilizing a torque sensor, the motor reacts dynamically to the rider’s input, delivering extra power when needed. This not only assists in conquering hills but also contributes to an overall riding experience that feels closer to a traditional non-electric bike while amplifying the rider’s efforts.
In a comprehensive range test, the Cabot RS demonstrated its efficiency with a 48V 720Wh battery, exceeding the advertised range of 60 miles. The result suggests that, under optimal conditions, the bike could potentially cover even greater distances. The impressive battery performance is a testament to the reliability of the powertrain.
The Shimano Olivio drivetrain, a 9-speed system with a 42-tooth chainring and an 11-to-34-tooth cassette, ensures flexibility for both uphill climbs and flat terrains. The Tekro E350 hydraulic disc brake system, featuring two-piston calipers and 180mm rotors on both wheels, provides reliable stopping power.
The cockpit design is user-friendly, with a combined control panel and display on the left handlebar. The color-coded display corresponds to the pedal assist setting, offering a quick and intuitive way for riders to monitor their preferences. The right handlebar houses the Shimano drivetrain shifter and a convenient bell.
The commuter-friendly features include a comfortable Selle Royal saddle, fenders for protection against splashes, lights for enhanced visibility, and a rear cargo rack capable of carrying up to 55 lbs of cargo.
So, the iGo Outland Cabot RS impresses with its thoughtful design, robust build quality, and a blend of features that make it suitable for both commuting and off-road adventures. The bike’s performance in real-world tests reinforces its reliability and efficiency, making it a compelling choice for riders seeking versatility in their electric bike experience. For more details, you can refer to the comprehensive written review linked in the description.
iGo Outland Cabot RS: Driving Test
Taking the iGo for a spin to evaluate its speed and power distribution in different pedal assist settings provides valuable insights into its overall performance. Let’s break down the results of the speed test conducted on this versatile electric bike.
Starting with no motor assistance, the Cabot RS exhibited a balanced feel, with a steady speed of around 12 mph. The 500W mid-drive motor’s weight was well-distributed, ensuring a seamless transition between powered and unassisted pedaling.
Engaging the pedal assist modes, the Cabot RS showcased incremental increases in speed. In Eco mode, the motor’s gentle whirring contributed to a comfortable riding experience, boosting the speed to approximately 14 mph. Transitioning to Tour mode and shifting into a higher gear, the bike cruised at around 16 mph with a moderate level of effort.
Sport mode revealed a more significant acceleration, reaching a speed of approximately 18 mph. Turbo mode pushed the limits further, allowing for a smooth and easy ride at around 19.5 mph. Finally, in Boost mode, the Cabot RS approached the Class 2 limit, hitting the 20 mph mark.
The Cabot RS is initially configured as a Class 2 e-bike, adhering to the 20 mph speed limit. However, it has the potential to be unlocked to a Class 3 e-bike, with pedal assist reaching up to 28 mph through the iGo Ride app. While the test was conducted in Class 2 mode, the review includes data from the Class 3 setting, with additional information available in the written review.
The unique feature of the mid-drive system and torque sensor became evident during the test. The motor’s responsiveness to pedal pressure allowed for a dynamic riding experience. The Cabot RS adapted to the rider’s effort, providing more power when needed and relaxing when the effort was reduced.
To assess the hill climbing prowess of the iGo Outland Cabot RS, we handed the reins to Justin for a rigorous hill test. Equipped with a 500W mid-drive motor, the Cabot RS boasts a unique feature – a throttle, a less common attribute among mid-drive e-bikes. Justin embarked on two tests, first using the throttle alone in boost mode and then relying on pedal assistance.
In the throttle-only ascent, Justin showcased the Cabot RS’s capability to climb steep inclines. The mid-drive motor, while audible, demonstrated a commendable performance, maintaining a speed of around 16 km/h up a super steep section. The bike’s ability to use gearing while using the throttle played a significant role, making the climb efficient and manageable. The motor’s sound, captured by the camera, may have seemed intense, but in reality, it is not obtrusive.
Switching to the pedal test in boost mode, the Cabot RS continued to impress. Climbing with a consistent input, Justin experienced a natural and responsive feel from the mid-drive motor. The sound of the motor remained within acceptable limits, and the bike tackled the steep sections with ease, reaching speeds around 13 km/h.
Going beyond mere numbers, Justin’s real-world hill climbing results painted a different picture. The Cabot RS covered a challenging hill climb in a minute and 36 seconds using the throttle alone, showcasing its efficient and powerful mid-drive motor. The combination of the mid-drive motor and strategic gearing during the throttle test highlighted the bike’s ability to handle demanding ascents with ease.
In the boost mode pedal test, the Cabot RS exhibited similar capabilities, taking a minute and 40 seconds to conquer the hill at a speed of 10.8 mph. While the numerical results may appear average when compared to other commuter bikes, the actual performance demonstrated by the Cabot RS sets it apart. The mid-drive motor’s collaboration with the rider in distributing the workload results in a hill climbing experience that feels powerful and responsive.
Embarking on one last ride with the iGo Outland Cabot RS, we delve into the bike’s ride quality, exploring its unique blend of commuter and off-road capabilities. As the rider provides insights, let’s unravel the nuances of the Cabot RS’s performance.
The Cabot RS stands out as a hybrid, striking a balance between off-road prowess and commuter convenience. The rider notes a moderate to aggressive forward lean, emphasizing its commuter orientation. While the standard-style stem lacks adjustability, offering a single frame size, the overall handling remains predictable, with a commendable 720 mm wide handlebar providing good control.
A defining feature of the Cabot RS is its Schwalbe Hurricane tires, measuring 27.5 inches by 2.4 inches. This hybrid tread pattern showcases a smooth street tread down the middle for optimal rolling resistance, complemented by shoulder knobs for enhanced stability and grip on varied terrains. The tires prove their mettle when transitioning from smooth pavement to bumpier dirt, delivering a versatile riding experience.
The front suspension, a Suntour XCM 32 with 80 mm of travel, contributes to the bike’s flexibility, smoothing out the ride on rough surfaces. While not designed for extreme off-road conditions, the suspension is well-suited for a commuter bike with occasional off-road ventures.
The heart of the Cabot RS lies in its 500W mid-drive motor, the iGo Drive RS, boasting 130 Nm of torque. The motor impresses with its responsiveness, providing a feel akin to riding a non-electric bike while delivering an extra boost for increased speed and extended travel distances. The torque sensor ensures a dynamic response to the rider’s input, enhancing the overall riding experience.
In terms of comfort, the rider expresses surprise at the ergonomics. Despite the forward-leaning riding position, the grips and wide handlebars contribute to unexpected comfort. Additionally, the sizable pedals offer a solid platform, accommodating even larger shoe sizes.
However, concerns arise in terms of sizing, as taller riders above 6 feet may find the frame somewhat cramped. A call for multiple frame sizes could address this concern, providing a more inclusive and comfortable riding experience for a diverse range of riders.
The rider also mentions a slight concern with tire durability, suggesting additional flat protection for those traversing areas with potential sharp debris. Despite this caution, the overall stability, control, and responsiveness of the Cabot RS receive high praise.
Braking Test
In our rigorous brake test, where we compared the Outland Cabot RS to the average results from testing various commuter bikes, the Cabot RS demonstrated commendable braking capabilities. The test involved accelerating the bike to 20 mph and then applying the brakes to measure the distance it took to come to a complete stop. This process was repeated three times to ensure accuracy, and the Cabot RS consistently achieved an average stopping distance of 23 feet.
In comparison to our overall average for commuter e-bikes, the Cabot RS’s performance in the brake test exceeded expectations. While it landed about 17 inches beyond our current average, it falls well within the range considered safe and effective. This result can be attributed to the hybrid tread pattern of the bike’s tires, which offers a good balance between stability and traction.
However, there’s always room for improvement. Considering the Cabot RS’s capability to venture beyond paved surfaces, an upgrade to the braking system could enhance its off-road performance. The current Tekro E350 hydraulic disc brake system, while solid, could potentially be further improved. A different hydraulic brake system with four-piston calipers and larger rotors would provide the bike with increased stopping power, especially beneficial for off-road riding.
Despite this consideration, the Cabot RS earns praise for its stability during braking. An informal brake test on a gravel turnaround revealed the bike’s impressive control. Even in conditions where it’s easy to experience slippage, the Cabot RS maintained a straight trajectory when the brakes were applied. The tire knobs effectively did their job, preventing any unwanted sliding and contributing to an overall safe and confident braking experience.
Battery and Range
As hinted earlier, the iGo Outland Cabot RS demonstrated exceptional range performance during extensive real-world tests. iGo advertises a range of up to 60 miles on the bike, and the actual results from the range test showcased the Cabot RS’s efficiency and versatility.
The testing involved riding until the 720W battery was completely depleted, both in Eco mode and Boost mode. The outcomes of these tests suggest that most riders can expect to cover distances ranging from approximately 45 to 67 miles, depending on the chosen assist setting. These figures encompass a remarkable range, exceeding the manufacturer’s claimed range in Eco mode.
The Eco mode test, in particular, stood out as a testament to the Cabot RS’s efficiency. Despite facing over 1,200 feet of elevation change during the test – a challenging factor that typically consumes more battery energy – the bike exceeded expectations. This result hints at the potential for riders in flatter areas to surpass 70 miles on a single charge, showcasing the effectiveness of mid-drive motors in distributing workload and maximizing efficiency.
The Turbo mode test was initially anticipated to take about an hour and a half. However, the Cabot RS delivered an additional hour of riding, with the tests spanning between 2.5 and 4.5 hours. This impressive duration reinforces the Cabot RS’s capability to provide an extended and enjoyable riding experience before requiring a recharge.
The mid-drive motor’s efficiency, combined with the strategic use of different assist settings, contributed to the remarkable range results. Mid-drive motors excel in splitting the work between the motor and the rider, ensuring a balance that optimizes battery usage.
iGo Outland Cabot RS: Conclusions
In the area of electric bikes, the iGo Outland Cabot RS emerges as a distinctive and noteworthy option, offering an uncommon combination of features that caters to a variety of riders. The bike’s versatility in handling rougher terrains sets it apart, making it a standout choice for those seeking a commuter e-bike with an adventurous edge.
Reflecting on the comprehensive test results, the Cabot RS displayed commendable performance across various aspects. While the brakes could benefit from enhancements like larger rotors and four-piston calipers for improved off-road control, the bike excelled in most categories. Its power distribution, especially when unlocked to Class 3 settings, showcased even and reliable performance.
During the hill test, the Cabot RS demonstrated its prowess by conquering a challenging ascent, surpassing the expectations of its riders. The mid-drive motor’s efficiency, coupled with a decently sized battery, translated into an impressive range during real-world tests. The bike’s ability to cover substantial distances before requiring a recharge adds to its appeal.
The Cabot RS is particularly well-suited for shorter to average riders seeking a reliable and capable commuting companion. However, the hope lingers for iGo to expand the range with additional frame sizes, accommodating taller riders. For individuals of average height or below, the Outland Cabot RS beckons as a serious yet approachable e-bike worthy of consideration.
For those intrigued by the Cabot RS’s unique qualities, a visit to iGo’s website through the provided link in the video description offers an opportunity for a closer look. Support for Electric Bike Report is appreciated through using the provided purchase link, ensuring that valuable reviews and insights continue to be shared.
So, the iGo Outland Cabot RS, as explored and analyzed in this review, stands as a commendable choice for riders seeking a blend of functionality, versatility, and a touch of adventure in their commuting experience. Like and subscribe to stay tuned for upcoming e-bike giveaways, and with that, John from Electric Bike Report concludes the exploration of the intriguing io Outland Cabot RS.
