The Transformers Optimus Prime and BumbleBee Segway x Ninebot GoKart Pro has been released by Hasbro and Segway-Ninebot. In China, Canada, and the US, the two models are readily available. The models are the fruit of the partnership between Segway-Ninebot and Hasbro, a major entertainment company. Only a few number of the models were created in a limited edition.
With millions of fans worldwide, the TRANSFORMERS franchise is a global behemoth. Since 1984, the conflict between the Autobots and Decepticons has been brought to life in films, television programs, comic books, cutting-edge toys, and digital media, giving fans of all ages amazing “MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE” experiences. The Autobots, who are brave and want to defend all life, and the Decepticons, who are evil and want to rule the entire universe, are the two main characters that have helped the brand maintain its appeal throughout the years. Hasbro owns the franchise for the TRANSFORMERS name.
The goal of Hasbro, a pioneer in worldwide branded entertainment, is to amuse and unite generations of fans through the magic of storytelling and the thrill of play. With a portfolio of renowned brands like NERF, TRANSFORMERS, PLAY-DOH, PEPPA PIG, MAGIC: THE GATHERING, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS, Hasbro Gaming, and Hasbro Consumer Products, Hasbro creates memorable brand experiences for audiences throughout the world.
Some of the most popular micro mobility devices on the market today were developed in secret by the Segway Innovation Group product team over a long period of time. The Gokart Pro, a smash hit in 2018 that sent gokarting off course, was chosen to represent Optimus Prime and Bumblebee, the narrative’s driving forces. The Gokart Pro may be modified to suit the demands of the driver, much like the Transformers bots. The kart may be compressed for kids as young as fourteen or expanded to comfortably fit a two-meter (six-foot) adult. For convenient, compact transportation, the steering column can be folded out of the way. Anyone may ride with confidence thanks to four riding modes and a top speed of 40 km/h (25 mp/h). Lou Yi, CEO of the Segway Innovation Group, claims that the GoKart Pro is a safe and enjoyable way to increase your heart rate.
The highest-performing Segway scooter was created, the Megatron GT2 Superscooter. It has speed and power, reaching its highest speed of 43.5 miles per hour in 3.9 seconds. It has a double wishbone matte metallic construction in the center of a sleek, curved frame. It has 11-inch tires and dual adjustable suspension technology. Serialized plate numbers that are written in Cybertronian are installed on each Gokart Pro and GT2 model.
Chinese e-commerce sites sell the limited-edition models, while Segway aficionados in Canada and the US can purchase the goods directly from the company’s website.
The kids Bumblebee C8 electric scooter will be made available in the US and Canada just in time for the holidays to complete the cooperation and allow the smallest and newest Transformers fans to partake in the excitement. The Bumblebee C8 is intended for children between the ages of 6 and 12 and features the character’s textured foot board, handlebars, and stem in his trademark bright yellow color. The limited edition Transformers collection enables the entire family to embark on an adventure. According to Li Haijun, Product Manager of the Segway Innovation Group, “I want to share my favorite childhood animation show with my kids by developing and playing with the Transformers series.”
The limited-edition Optimus Prime and Bumblebee Gokart Pros are presently on sale in China on various e-commerce sites. The Bumble Gokart Pro, Megatron GT2, and Bumblebee C8 kids scooters are presently offered at Store.Segway.com for fans in the US and Canada, with the heroic Optimus Prime Gokart Pro arriving in the summer of 2023.
The Rad Trike, a new three-wheeled electric vehicle from Rad Power, has a storage capacity of 416 pounds. Users who want additional room in their e-bike for last-mile deliveries and other regular urban logistics tasks will find the new model to be a wonderful choice. The Trike, according to the firm, is its newest and most popular electric bike. The bike has a reverse functionality as well for variety in movement.
The RadWagon long-tail cargo bike, RadRunner utility cycle, and RadExpand foldable bike are just a few examples of the diverse and reasonably priced models available from Rad Power Bikes, which is the largest and most well-funded manufacturer of electric bikes in North America. It may seem odd to add an electric tricycle to that list, but Radenbaugh claims it has consistently received the most requests ever since he started the business 15 years ago.
Some people need the added stability and storage capacity that a three-wheeler EV offers. The Rad Trike is intended for these people because a typical e-bike won’t meet their unique needs. The Rad Trike is a vehicle intended to replace cars, and its design reflects this idea. The e-bike has a big cargo capacity, so it can carry much of what a car can carry in its trunk. The Trike’s novel reverse feature is activated by pushing a button on the left-hand handle.
With a wink, Mike Radenbaugh continues, “This way to the Rad Cave.” It’s a clear day in Brooklyn, and I’m following Rad Power Bikes’ founder and chairman across a courtyard, through some doors, into an elevator, down several floors to a basement garage, past a number of posh-looking automobiles, through another door, and into a large room with concrete floors, where Radenbaugh is waiting with his next big invention: a tricycle.
The Rad Trike boasts a five-level pedal assist system in addition to the Rad Power throttle. In Rad Power e-bikes, the Pedal Assist System (PAS) is a standard feature. If you wish to park the Trike indoors, it can easily fit through doors despite having three wheels. The bike may also be partially folded to make it even more compact and simple to store. A full charge of the bike gives it a 35-mile range. This estimate may be low and could increase greatly if pedaling is also employed.
Additionally, the RadTrike is quite customizable. Clients may or may not be able to equip their trikes with a sun cover, plexiglass windshield, or front and rear cargo holders, similar to many of Rad Power Bikes’ other models, depending on whether the company decides to sell it. Additional accessories, such as a potential pet carrier, are being looked into and evaluated.
Other well-known characteristics include the twist throttle, a controller with five different power aid levels, a 750-watt motor, and a 672-watt-hour battery (48-volt and 14-ampere hour) for a range of up to 35 miles, depending on the level of support. It is possible to fold the handlebars for simpler storage.
A front-hub motor, a 180-millimeter front disc brake, a parking brake, a reverse throttle, and the aforementioned saddle with backrest are among more features that the RadTrike will introduce to the Rad Power Bikes roster. The business intended to provide its consumers with a distinctive experience, but it also recognized that the majority of them were probably older folks with sensitive knees and joints.
The RadTrike is intended to show that the business is still developing despite these difficulties. Finally, according to Radenbaugh, they have settled on a final design that is universally aesthetically pleasing, secure, approachable, and accessible. Rad Power Bikes is firmly seated as the top seller of e-bikes in the nation, and it has no intention of moving up, while other e-bike companies are competing with high-speed, motorbike-style designs that appear aggressive, exciting, and even a little bit hazardous.
According to Radenbaugh, “The Volkswagen Beetle was created to have this welcoming look to it.” Yes, this is the same concept: how do you make it futuristic while also being approachable?
Pre-orders for the Rad Trike are currently being accepted for $2,499 in the US. Following that, deliveries of the highly praised e-bike will begin. If the model will be offered in other markets is unknown.
The Himiway Big Dog E-Bike is designed to be your cargo-carrying partner while you cruise around the neighborhood and the city. This Class 2 ebike can transport kids, groceries, or whatever else you need for your on-the-go lifestyle thanks to its ultra-wide rear rack and strong 750W motor. The Big Dog, which costs $1,999, is a fantastic option for a city-to-country commuter and multifunctional bike.
One fantastic option for a vehicle has to be an electric bike, more especially, the Himiway Big Dog. With this robust all-terrain cargo e-bike, you can effortlessly slog through sand and snow as well as climb any hill. The Big Dog is a fantastic choice if you want a powerful cargo e-bike that is inexpensive and suitable for all terrains.
Learn more about what we thought of Himiway’s new cargo ebike and how well it performed in our tests below. In this review on electric bikes, I’ll talk about the affordable cargo e-bike from Himiway in the hopes that it will aid you in choosing an e-bike. However, let’s look at the Big Dog’s specifications first before I continue:
Motor
750W
Material
Aluminum
Payload Capacity
400 lbs
Tire
20"x4"
Brakes
Hydraulic
Rider's Height
5'2" ~ 6'5"
Battery
48V 20Ah
Range
60-80Mi
Video Review of Himiway Big Dog
Himiway Big Dog: Design and Build Quality
Although the Big Dog is advertised as a cargo bike, it’s important to understand the bike’s true categorization. Yuba Bikes and the well-known Bullitt are two excellent examples of expanded frames with a long rear rack or a sizable luggage area at the front of the bike that come to mind when I think of “cargo bikes.” The Big Dog, on the other hand, is more like to a regular ebike with a reinforced rear rack and mounts for a sizable front basket. When riders are making deliveries or conducting errands, the step-thru design makes getting on and off the bike simple.
With its small frame and 20″ wheels, this bike resembles a more expensive version of the Himiway Escape E-Bike, which was inspired by mopeds. However, the Big Dog has an adjustable seat height, which is a feature that many bikers consider essential for achieving complete leg extension. The RadRunner from Rad Power Bikes, in my opinion, is the Big Dog’s main rival, whereas the extremely competent RadWagon is more akin to the conventional cargo bikes that we’re used to.
With a moniker like this, it was only right that Big Dog comes with a back rack and a removable front rack. It can be difficult to find multipurpose all-terrain electric motorcycles with lots of payload capacity in the present market, so this one is a welcome sight.
The double-leg center kickstand is another fantastic component that is tied to the design and shape of the bike. It’s sturdy and rust-proof; sometimes, it’s the little things that make an e-bike so helpful.
According to Himiway, the bike has one frame size and should fit riders from 5′ to 6’2″. In our testing, we discovered that taller people could feel better at ease riding a full-sized fat tire ebike like the Zebra.
Himiway Big Dog: Motor and Driving
Even with large loads, a 750W rear hub motor’s performance on slopes is excellent, providing lots of speed and torque. There are five different levels of pedal assistance, and the top speed in the throttle mode is 20 mph. Although it appears like a mid-drive motor is located in the bottom bracket region, it actually just appears to be the location of the controller. Having said that, perhaps the Himiway Big Dog E-Bike will eventually feature a mid-drive.
They provide excellent heat dissipation in challenging conditions. You’ll need an engine that can keep up when you are running errands, riding the trails, or delivering deliveries, and Big Dog’s motor can absolutely accomplish that.
Despite having a somewhat simple appearance, the monochromatic display is anything but. A rider can alter the amount of pedal aid modes as well as the strength of each one under advanced settings. Riders who like a gentler touch on the initial pedal assist may find that to be of great use.
With the right hand twist grip throttle or pedal assistance, the Himiway Big Dog can reach a top speed of 20 mph when it ships as a Class 2 electric bike.
One significant drawback is that when riding over uneven terrain, the chain bangs on the kickstand and emits a loud ringing sound. This is a result of the center-stand kickstand design, which was an original concept, but I hope Himiway fixes this problem in the Big Dog’s following iteration.
The Shimano 7-speed gear shifting mechanism and Shimano Altus Derailleur are equipped with the Big Dog. These two elements work well together and give you a sharp sense as you move.
The Big Dog has a good gear range for accelerating quickly and climbing hills.
The Big Dog’s range of 7 gears is more than adequate, and given how quickly it can travel, you’ll almost ever ride it in speeds 1-3. However, having the lower gears is still useful especially when the route becomes more difficult.
Installing handlebars in the BMX fashion was an interesting but wise decision. The fixed stem cannot raise or lower the bars, but there is plenty of room for accessories including a phone mount. I really like the sleek, integrated bell that is installed next to the left brake lever. The metal Wellgo-branded pedals are a tough component that can withstand abuse, and the cable management at the front of the bike might be improved.
The mechanical disc brakes of the Big Dog are Tektro Aries, and the rotors are Tektro 180 mm. You may make sure the power quits whenever you apply the brakes with the aid of motor cutoffs. The Zebra presently has hydraulic disc brakes, which provide a superior feel and performance, which is a significant distinction.
The Big Dog has a 46 tooth single-walled front chainring up front and a 14-28 tooth rear freewheel, similar to the Zebra.
The size of the Big Dog’s tires is one way it differs from the Zebra. The moped-sized 4′′x20′′ Kenda Krusade nobbies are available at The Big Dog. (The Zebra has 26′′x4′′ wheels, which are more reminiscent of the original mountain bike dimensions.) Both offer excellent traction on a range of surfaces.
Himiway Big Dog: Battery and Range
The Big Dog’s integrated 20Ah high-capacity battery is one of its standout features. Although the downtube is very substantial and the step-through frame lacks a top tube, I like the way it looks given that it houses the battery. Riders can cover some significant distances before running out of fuel because to the range’s 80-mile rating. The taillight has interesting Himiway branding, which is a great touch that I haven’t seen on other ebikes. A dual LED headlight and rear brake light operate off of the battery.
The integrated battery’s practical protection from rain, wind, and dirt is another advantage. This extra layer of security is a significant bonus because the battery is so important and pricey.
Himiway Big Dog: Conclusions
The dependable Himiway Big Dog E-Bike can become your new best buddy if you frequently load up your bike or want a pleasant way to transport your child. This commuter bike with large tires will appeal to riders who aren’t sold on the idea of ebikes that look like mopeds while yet being reasonably priced. With the help of this workhorse ebike, load up and get going to finish your tasks swiftly.
The Big Dog is a strong addition to Himiway’s lineup of fat tire electric bikes. Its step-through design should make it ideal for shorter riders. Additionally, with a payload capacity of 400 pounds, it ought to be a reliable bike for a heavy user.
For someone who wants cargo capacity but doesn’t necessary want a large cargo bike, the Himiway Big Dog can be the ideal bicycle. Additionally, it includes a strong motor and a big battery for further exploration.
An Indiegogo fundraising effort has been started for the Splach Titan electric scooter. The new electric scooter has two electric motors that together produce 2,600W of power. The Titan joined other Splach items like the Turbo and Transformer in the crowdfunding campaign that began in November.
The Titan brings performance and power to the table. Splach is contrasting a stand-up kick-scooter with an SUV. According to the article, the Titan is the SUV of the e-scooter industry since it provides balance, comfort, and speed even while traveling off-road. Two 1,000W electric motors produce a combined 2,600W of maximum power. The Titan can go from 0 to 30mph (48km/h) in 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 36mph (58km/h).
One of the most inclusive scooters on the market, the Titan accommodates users of all heights, weights, and sizes. For instance, its handlebars are unusually large and wide, measuring 52 inches in height and 42 inches from the deck to the handlebars. They are ideal for riders up to six feet five inches tall due to their tall size. Similar to that, their 27-inch width gives all riders excellent control over the steering column.
The LCD on the handlebar allows access to the Titan’s 12-speed options and three gear modes. The scooter is maneuverable even in crowded locations because to the many speed/gear modes. A full charge of the Titan’s 20.8Ah battery allows it to travel up to 44 miles (71 km). Front and rear disc brakes, E-ABS, and aircraft-grade aluminum are all features of the Titan. A handlebar-mounted button can be used to engage the E-ABS. The scooter has a payload capacity of 100kg and weighs 29kg.
Being a relatively young company, SPLACH is aware that in order to compete against well-known brands like Apollo and Kaabo, they must create scooters with comparable performance at a lower price.
SPLACH is a brand built on providing value for money, as evidenced by the Twin, the market’s least expensive dual motor model. SPLACH reduces its profit in order to maintain its prices and increase the accessibility of its models. Consequently, in this instance, you save $1,199 while still receiving a scooter that costs more than $2,000.
Paying less benefits you, and SPLACH can increase its market share in the electric scooter industry. Everyone benefits, thus it’s a win-win situation.
The SPLACH Titan epitomizes the expression “punching beyond its weight” in terms of speed, range, braking, as well as ride and build quality, as we’ll soon go over in more depth. The Titan will pole-vault to the top of your list if the price-to-performance metric is important to your decision-making (and let’s face it, you’re human, so of course it is).
The 52V 20.8Ah battery has a 44-mile maximum range.
We obtained a real-world range of 29 miles by using the scooter’s quickest settings while traversing various terrains. This is remarkable in light of the fact that the roughly comparable-powered Apollo Ghost ($1,699) only traveled 25 miles under the similar circumstances.
The scooter is equipped with 9-inch all-terrain tires and a comprehensive suspension system. It can easily traverse challenging terrain and has an outstanding ground clearance. For effectively illuminating the e-scooter at night, there are numerous LED lights. The scooter also has LED side lights that can have their colors changed using the companion app. The Titan also includes smart cruise control, an AirTag holder, and the optional Airlock keyless system.
The Titan is available on Indiegogo for $1,149, and delivery will begin before December 20th.
An electric motorcycle that can also be used as a snowmobile has been unveiled by Canadian startup Daymak. With its unique design, the Daymak Combat blends the excitement of cycling with high-intensity snow sports using a snow bike. This electric vehicle can function as both an e-bike and an e-snowmobile.
The wheels may be repaired once spring arrives and the climate is suitable for motorcycle sports. The Combat is an exclusively off-road vehicle, according to Daymak. It is not meant for use as a daily commuter or on metropolitan streets. It is only meant to be used as a sports car off-road.
A very amazing 5kW electric motor powers the Daymak Combat to a maximum of 14kW (about 19hp). This gives the snowmobile or motorcycle a lot of power. Its top speed of roughly 70 km/h makes it ideal for off-road travel.
The 4.8kWh battery in the bike’s frame powers it for up to 80 kilometers on a single charge. The Daymak Combat’s battery capacity is directly comparable to that of a number of compact electric motorcycles.
The Daymak Combat is an electric off-road bike with flat tires that is not street-legal. Its dual functionality can attract attention from a number of market groups. But the cost of the Combat is high. Daymak claims that the bike’s suggested retail price for the first 100 Founders Edition models will be $13,995. The Daymak Combat is anticipated to start shipping in June 2023.
The price of electric snowmobiles is similar to that of electric motorbikes, which are several thousand dollars more expensive than their internal combustion counterparts. Thus, Daymak’s Daymak Combat combines an electric motorcycle with an electric snowmobile. A set of track and ski attachments that can be installed throughout the winter are included with the EV.
As an alternative, Daymak is selling the bike’s Deluxe Edition for $14,999. Customers who are interested in the Deluxe Edition can reserve one by paying a $1,000 deposit. Daymak claims that as it develops into a full-fledged designer and producer, the hybrid EV shows its new orientation.
A consumer direct portal selling products including shoes, pedals, cleats, and other accessories directly to consumers has now gone live on the website of Shimano USA. American brand retailers have expressed their dismay upon learning this week via email.
It appears that many brands are boosting up incentives for customers to buy right before the holiday season, making them far from alone in the practice.
However, according to Dominic Langan, head of Madison UK, who also spoke this week on the CI.N podcast to recap what has changed in the bicycle industry in 2022, what is alarming bike shops stocking Shimano accessories over the Atlantic is unlikely to be replicated here in the UK and probably not in the EU.
When asked about Shimano’s behavior, Dom responded that it “definitely isn’t happening here in the UK and (I’m) quite confident not anyplace in Europe either.” Dom was referring to the consumer-facing portal moving stock without shop involvement.
The news has been received differently on the opposite side of the Atlantic, with some stores quickly growing accustomed to being bypassed on specific commodities and others furious that their enterprises were ignored.
One retailer who addressed the issue in the bike industry’s Facebook group “Cycling Industry Recovery” chose to photoshop banners onto the Trek and Shimano websites, demonstrating the belief that it would be simple to identify retail partners as a nearby and practical source, as opposed to delaying mention of this in the Festive promotions until near the checkout.
Which direct-to-consumer advertisements, mine or theirs, do you prefer? questioned the poster when identifying the brands in the comparison photo sets.
This merchant explained to CI.N why he had built the alternative Shimano and Trek websites, saying: “I think it is time for all vendors who have been built by the IBD to have it front and center to point customers to us first, and have the direct to consumer option only if a local dealer is unavailable in their area or unwilling to order from them.”
As margins have shrunk and some products’ profitability has decreased, the trend in the bike industry for distributors and manufacturers to establish a consumer-facing portal has turned into one-way traffic. As a result of the current glut, some products are now being sold outside of stores since they are unable or unable to get rid of the excess inventory.
When a customer cannot be asked to choose a local stockist during the checkout process, wholesalers frequently sell directly to customers. Due to the convenience of online purchasing, it has become a contentious topic in the industry and has led several stores to drop long-standing brands.
The tendency of bike shops allocating more floor space to the workshop, where they have better control over pricing and margins, has been largely influenced by this. This was the second-largest obstacle for retailers to overcome, trailing only the unpredictable nature of inventories, Amazon rivalry, and the difficulties with imports brought on by Brexit.
The connection between stores and Shimano has long been a contentious one because Shimano is the largest and most widely used bicycle component brand in the world. Back in 2016, one of CyclingIndustry.News’ most popular articles featured a shop who vowed to cease stocking the brand until it improved its supply to retailers who had been able to beat local distributor pricing by procuring from rumored gray sources and subsequently selling to consumers.
Nick Bailey, a design engineer and member of the cycle trade, created an electric bike conversion kit that is built in the UK. Nick has acquired funding to increase manufacturing and launch the product in bike stores.
Since most rivals sell directly to consumers, the product is reported to be the first of its kind to seek distribution through bike shops. Boost claims that this presents an opportunity to convert customers who cannot afford an entire electric bike rather than losing the sale.
Additionally, according to founder Nick, there are an estimated 38 million abandoned bikes in the UK that might be revived. He informed CI.N that a European pilot is currently running in Copenhagen.
He said, “This money will enable us grow our shop network from about 30 to over 100 locally, build on our R&D initiatives, and expand our UK manufacturing competence.
The company is in the process of raising six figures in angel capital. Supporters come from a group of affluent people who are interested in sustainable transportation and have made profitable investments in bicycle innovation.
Design Engineer Nick Bailey created the kit by combining his two interests in constructing and riding motorcycles. “I like to think that I follow the great British tradition of fusing many elements to produce something fresh and intriguing. I’ve fixed and rebuilt dozens of bikes over the years, and now I’m on a mission to aid others in saving theirs. People will be able to update their outdated bicycles thanks to Boost, which will motivate them to ride more frequently.
Nick acknowledges that not all businesses will be eager to invest in the less expensive but more widely available end of the electric bike market, but he claims that carrying his equipment will keep sales staff flexible.
He continues, “Mechanics also find the kit incredibly straightforward to fit. The kits are essentially a simple solution for bike shops to extend their eBike capacity.”
“Boost has provided us with excellent support, but I haven’t really needed it because the kit is so easy to install. The pedal sensor is incorporated inside the motor, among other things, a mechanic from one of the first shops to sign up for the Boost network said.
The kits are currently on hand, and thanks to this fundraising effort, the local supply is expected to increase dramatically.
The kits cost £350 and are available in stores. The engine, a battery with a 50km range, the Boost controller, and access to the free Boost app are all included in this pricing. An optional wireless handlebar display device is an add-on for kits. The business may construct wheels on its own or with assistance from Boost as needed. The RRP to the consumer is approximately £580 (+ VAT) in all.
The device will be on display for retailers in April during the Cycle Show at Alexandra Palace. On boostbike.uk, you can get a detailed tech spec.
We’ll examine and evaluate the Freesky Himalaya model today. A relatively young manufacturer of electric bikes is Freesky. This brand has four models, and this specific one is in the middle to top end of their ebike lineup. You’ll see a lot of advertisements for it. On the Tower 100-point e-Bikes scale, it receives a score of 51, which regrettably indicates that it is a mediocre bike.
The Freesky Himalaya is an electric bike with fat tires that exceeds the specifications I would often anticipate from e-bikes in this price range. I’m going to examine the specifications in more detail in this piece to see whether or not it lives up to expectations.
A reputable maker of electric bicycles, Freesky distributes its goods in 80 nations. The US, EU, and UK are their three key markets. They provide a wide selection of electric bikes, including foldable, hybrid, and e-MTB models.
The total for Tower e-Bikes is seven. The remaining two, universality and comfort, combine to form the Specialty Score. This is true of many expensive motorcycles or particular sorts of bikes that are made to fit particular body types. It’s possible that they aren’t designed for comfort, or that this is an aggressively designed road bike or mountain bike. To make the specialized score more useful for specific bikes, we separate those ranks out.
With a score of 51, the Freesky Himalaya is rated as a mediocre bike. But let’s start with the review!
Motor
750w BAFANG
Battery
48V 15AH Samsung
Range
35-80+mile
Top Speed
32 mph
Tire
26" x 4.0
Suspension
Front
BRAKE
Hydraulic Disc Brake
Wheel Size
26 Inches
Item Weight
73 Pounds
Item Package Dimensions L x W x H
62 x 32 x 14 inches
Material
Aluminum
Color
Matte Black
Video Review of Freesky Himalaya
Freesky Himalaya: Design
First, we’ll discuss the materials’ overall quality score out of 10. The Freesky Himalaya receives a material quality score of 3, which is not remarkable. It has a good aluminum frame, which contributes to its relative lightness. Although the seat and pedals are great, there are several problems with this. What you are seeing are eventually going to corrode steel spokes. The tires on it are not the best. They are decent, but not outstanding. Additionally, it’s just the way it looks overall. The bike has a crazy appearance that is both showy and aggressive.
Oversized tires serve as the suspension, among other things. Dual suspension on an electric fat bike, in my opinion, is a bit excessive and adds extra weight. However, the majority of fat tire electric bikes have dual or at least front suspension. The Freesky Himalaya’s suspension appears to be a fairly basic, low-cost setup and should add an extra layer of comfort when riding on unpaved routes.
Unbranded 26-inch fat bike wheels are probably equipped with cup and cone bearings on the front wheel, making them simple to maintain. The 26-inch-by-4-inch tires are widely used and ought to offer a respectable amount of puncture resistance and traction.
E-bikes in this price range come equipped with a 6061 alloy frame. It must be sturdy and last for the entire life of the bike. Alloy is used for the handlebar, stem, and seat post. The gel saddle appears to be a reasonable size and ought to be reasonably comfy.
A sizable 3.5′′ LCD display with all the standard parameters, such as a battery indication, speed, mileage, and assist level, is there.
The Himalaya comes with some standard add-ons, including a front light and kickstand. If one is needed, adding a pannier rack should be rather simple.
On an e-bike this expensive, hydraulic brakes are a welcome sight. Since these brakes are unbranded products, I am unable to comment on their braking capabilities. However, based on experience with comparable off-brand hydraulic brakes, they typically operate just fine and much better than mechanical disc brakes.
The Himalaya features a Shimano 7-speed with the required thumb shifter, which is completely functional, dependable, and reasonably priced to replace. This is a rather normal specification.
It receives an overall six in terms of mechanical quality. This is roughly in the center of the road. They are slightly superior to average, that much is certain. This bike does have hydraulic brakes, which is a wonderful feature. It has a suspension as well as front and rear shocks. However, the hydraulics are basic and the suspension isn’t the best.
Freesky Himalaya: Motor and Battery
This bike can climb, thus they succeed in this area. They score a nine out of 10 for their ability to climb hills.
The electrical work was done correctly, even though some of the electrical parts are somewhat pricey. The battery on this bike might be of a respectable size. You have a 48-volt system, but the 750 watt motor will have a little bit of trouble with your 15 amp power bank.
When you refer to range, we’ll discuss that at the next scoring. However, you have really good quality cells that can climb hills. Samsung batteries and a 750-watt, buffeting motor with the Fang brand are both present in this device.
The Himalaya uses a 750W 48V brushless, geared hub motor. Nothing special about this; these motor types are often utilized for their simplicity and all-around dependability. On the flat, they create a very good turn of speed, but they struggle on hills that are more difficult. Similar motors have generally performed well in my extensive testing on gradients up to roughly 10%. Then they begin to battle.
The e-range Bike’s received a rating of seven out of 10 from us. The 750 watt motor with excellent cells is a rather sizable motor in this place. However, if you want to use a 48-volt system, the battery capacity is a little bit insufficient. That should probably have a somewhat larger battery installed if you don’t want to experience any range problems. It’s not spectacular, but it’s decent. As a result, we’ve given it a seven. And that, in my opinion, is one of the issues with these Freesky electric bikes.
Although I’m not a huge fan of fat tyre electric bikes, they can be useful if you plan to ride in snow, sand, or any other challenging terrain. Remember that the rear hub motor will be more than adequate for long, sweeping gravel rides but won’t be much use for getting you up steep, tricky off-road climbs.
For the price, the Himalaya’s battery capacity is surprisingly high. Semi-integrated within the downtube, a 15Ah battery is readily removable for indoor charge. For a 750W e-bike, the claimed range of 55 miles sounds a little unrealistic. If the lowest level of assistance is applied and the terrain is somewhat flat, it might be feasible.
The grades for comfort and universality are now being discussed. Since you’re sort of involved with it, those aren’t the most comfy either. They may not always be designed for comfort. With this bike, you probably won’t want to go for a 30-mile ride.
They do have a decent suspension, though. Although it is there, I wouldn’t necessarily describe it as a suspension of good quality. Up until those components start to fail, the bumps and bruises won’t really get to you. On this bike, the reach is fine and the seating is moderately comfy. As a result, we rate this overall as five on the comfort meter.
Freesky Himalaya: Conclusions
The Freesky Himalaya appears to offer excellent value for the money on paper. However, the verdict is still out until I can examine one in-depth. It appears to be a good deal when compared to other e-bikes with similar fat tires, such the Freesky Himalaya, because it is a little less expensive, has a more potent battery, and a 750w engine.
It is very hefty, like other e-bikes of this type. The weight of 33 kg that was stated seems about appropriate. You wouldn’t want to pedal an electric bike like that without the support.
The legal ramifications are something else to take into account. Police are cracking down on unlawful e-bike use in various parts of the UK and the EU. You should ride something like this slowly on the road if you want to avoid drawing unwanted attention.
The Freesky Himalaya is unquestionably a bike to take into consideration if you’re looking for an electric fat bike. It features a good-sized battery and acceptable specifications for the price.
At TNW, we have a policy regarding crowdfunding campaigns: with very few exceptions, we do not cover crowdfunding items unless they originate from a well-established business with a track record of success or we can provide a fully functional prototype.
It was the latter with the Tenways CGo600 e-bike. And I’m so happy I got to try it out since this e-bike is amazing; no gimmicks are required.
The bike costs between $1,000 and $1,500, has a Gates carbon belt drive, a discrete design that hides its electric nature, weighs 33 lbs, and offers one of the smoothest riding experiences of any e-bike I’ve ever experienced. Here at TNW, I’ve tested a lot of e-bikes, and these three characteristics are usually only found on much more expensive models.
Though this brand may be new and still developing, it already seems to have a winner. Few people would realize the CGo600 is an electric bike at first glance because it is a single-speed commuter bike. Only a few discrete additional cables for the motor and display are visible, while the battery is concealed in the frame.
Frame
6061 Aluminium Frame
Motor
Mivice M070 250W
Battery
36V, 7AH
Sensor
Mivice S200 Torque Sensor
Display
Minimalistic OLED Display
Top Speed
For Europe: 25 km/h or 16 mph
Range
Up to 70 km (43 miles) range*
Climbing Ability
Up to 15°
Weight
15 kg (33.1 lbs)
Brake
TEKTRO Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Wheels
700C Aluminium Rims
Video Review of Tenways CGo600
Tenways CGo600: Design and Build Quality
Forget about that; this is not an e-bike for those seeking exaggerated performance or a moped-like ride. Because there is no fuel on board, you must always pedal.
However, if you prioritize maneuverability over strength, like I do, the CGo600 can represent an outstanding value. Most of the time, riding a single speed bike feels like that, with the exception that your legs are simply very strong. Despite the absence of gears, the motor’s modest power allowed me to ascend every hill I had to travel.
Smooth, silent power delivery appears to have been a top priority when designing the electric engine. One of my favorite and most responsive systems I’ve used is the torque sensor and throttle curve. It compares favorably to my own $4000 Brompton Electric and any other bike I drove at hub, which are the two smoothest e-bikes I’ve ever rode. It is also pretty comparable to the $3000 Specialized Turbo Vado SL and Priority Current.
However, the CGo600 isn’t exactly a cheap ebike. It is considerably less expensive than a Cowboy or VanMoof, but unless you get one during the Indiegogo Early Bird sales, it is still what I would classify as a mid-ranger.
Nevertheless, it still provides exceptional value for the money because of several premium branded components. As far as e bikes go, it’s also quite light. It tipped the scales at just under 16 kilograms.
The single-speed belt drive of the CGo600 makes it the most comparable to the Cowboy 3. The system has a 60-tooth chainring and a 22-tooth rear sprocket and is made by Gates Carbon Drive CDX.
I like that this e-bike might go unnoticed unless you pay great attention. The downtube barely indicates that a battery is concealed there, and the motor is small enough to fit in a hub. The mechanic didn’t realize the bike was electric until he started working on the wheel when I took it to a shop to mend a spoke.
At 33 pounds, it’s still lighter than many non-electric bikes even though it’s definitely heavier than most analog racing bikes. I calculated the weight when I carried the bike up and down the stairs to my basement, so it is light enough to be hung on a wall, mounted on a car rack, or transported by train.
Arctic Blue, Lime Green, Sky Blue, and Midnight Black are the additional choices. The frame is available in 500 and 540mm diameters (19 and 21in).
If you pay great attention to the back, you’ll see that the rear axle is supported by movable dropouts. This is the best way to handle a bike with a belt drive because you can quickly remove the rear wheel without having to tighten the belt when reinstalling the wheel.
There is a removable element in the seat stay that allows you to remove and replace the seatbelt, and tension is adjusted using Allen bolts that allow dropouts to travel horizontally.
It irritates me that the toolbox doesn’t contain an 18mm spanner because the back wheel is secured with 18mm nuts. It comes with a few Allen keys and three smaller spanners, but it’s basically only intended to help you build the bike rather than maintain it.
Another peculiarity is that the right brake lever operates the steering wheel while the left brake lever operates the front brake. It’s the only bike I’ve ridden that doesn’t use the standard setup, but as long as you use both brakes together, it’s no huge concern.
Tenways CGo600: Motor and Driving
As far as I can determine, the motor is a 250 Watt Mivice M070 and is located in the rear hub. It has a max power of 500 Watt and a torque capacity of 40Nm.
The Light Grey I was sent, which has a matt finish and appears to be easy to mark and accumulate dirt, has an aluminum frame that resembles a real bike and is even more attractive in some of the two-tone colorways Tenways provides.
A single-speed arrangement isn’t for everyone, as I mentioned in my Cowboy review (among other places). Although you might need to help the CGo600 get going, it’s excellent for city commutes.
Fortunately, the torque sensor is precisely calibrated, so pedaling feels almost bionic. Press firmly on the pedals to start, and the motor will swiftly respond by delivering its power and accelerating you to cruising speed.
There is no boost button or handlebar-mounted throttle because the torque sensor serves as the throttle. The CGo600 is not an electric moped, thus it is not for sluggish riders. It feels fantastic to ride and is a true rider’s bike.
Although hydraulic disc brakes often have a strong bite, the Tenways’ felt barely enough at first. A few miles later, the pads settled in and they significantly improved.
Range is excellent since the torque sensor takes effort from the rider to produce power. Tenways claims a range of 70–130 km, with the bigger number predicated on the use of the least amount of assistance.
When riding independently, there is virtually no resistance because of the motor’s clutch, and the motor is also among the quietest I’ve ever heard.
Really, there isn’t anything to criticize about the bike. Hydraulic “X-Spark” disc brakes are still far superior to standard rim brakes despite being a little less potent than the Tektro or Shimano brakes used on many e-bikes. I hope Tenways thinks about providing some kind of range extender battery for folks who enjoy taking long trips because the battery is difficult to remove.
The main uncertainty is long-term support. Although carbon belts are noted for their durability and good hub motors can last a lifetime, prospective customers should obviously proceed with caution as Tenways is a young company. Right now, it’s impossible to predict what type of post-purchase assistance they’ll offer if something goes wrong.
Tenways CGo600: Conclusions
The Cowboy 3 single-speed bike is more expensive than the Tenways CGo600, which only actually lacks the built-in GPS and Bluetooth for tracking and over-the-air upgrades. It’s also important to think about support. The frame has a five-year warranty and other components have a two-year warranty, but it’s unlikely that you’ll find any nearby repair shops, so you could have to install any replacement parts yourself.
As always, heed the warning that this is not an online store like Amazon. Prices for “early birds” are offered to investors who will support the campaign. Although the target has already been exceeded in this instance, ordering a product that is in stock from a merchant is not the same.
The CGo600 is still a great bargain even at the higher cost. At the early bird price, it’s insanely good.
I received a call from Velotric asking if I would be interested in testing out its new Nomad 1 fat-tire e-bike as I was getting ready to go down to the Denver area to spend a few weeks with my oldest daughter. I’ve been enjoying the fall splendor of Colorado on the Nomad 1 because the trails and bike routes all throughout this region of Colorado are ideal for testing a fat-tire e-bike.
Even though Velotric is a young firm, their Discover 1 model, which debuted in 2021, has been quite successful and well received. Adam Zhang, one of the co-founders of Lime scooters, is the company’s CEO. Based on this, Velotric is growing its product line and aims to provide a dependable, high-quality ebike that can handle your upcoming off-road excursion.
The 48-volt, 691.2Wh battery powering the Nomad 1’s 750-watt rear hub motor charges in 6 hours and has a range of up to 55 miles. The Step-Thru and High Step variants of the Nomad 1 are currently on sale for $1,399.
Frame
Aluminum alloy
Motor Hub
750W
Battery
692Wh
Charger
48V, 3.0A
Display
3.5” Backlit LCD display
Pedal Assist Range
55miles
Throttle Range
52miles
Chainrings
46T
Crankset
Aluminum alloy, 170mm
Cassette
8-Speed, 13-34T
Rims
Aluminum alloy, 36H
Tire
26x4.0”, puncture-resistant liner
Brake
Hydraulic disc brakes
Rotors
180mm front and rear
Video Review of Velotric Nomad 1
Velotric Nomad 1: Design and Build quality
The bike was delivered in a sizable cardboard box that was imprinted on the side with the phrase “Ride Today.” Within 30 minutes, you can be riding if you attach the front wheel, fasten the handlebars, and attach the pedals.
Furthermore, delivery for the bike is free within the US, which is a really amazing deal.
An owner’s manual, a quick-start guide, pedals, a rear light, front and back reflectors, a bell, and all the equipment you need to put your bike together and maintain it are all included in the package.
Remember to turn off the tail light after you are through riding because it is battery-operated and separate from the bike’s electrical system.
I had to remove three screws from the front fork and rotate it before attaching the handlebars because it was put backward for some reason. It was a simple change to make, and if you don’t feel comfortable assembling a bike yourself, you can use the Velo Tooler on the Velotric website to request assembly service.
The battery and metal frame are the same color and feature a high-quality matte surface. On the junction sections, the welding is flawless and robust, and the bike feels strong with no flex or movement.
With only very small gaps where the battery is inserted, the aluminum frame and battery appear to be one solid component. Cheaper bikes frequently have subpar finishes, especially on its welded components. The craftsmanship seems to be of very high quality. There are a few little decals on the bike, all of which are flawlessly printed and adhered. The bike feels quite well put together once it has been fully installed. With the exception of where they emerge near the front of the handlebars, the wires are disguised, giving it a quality appearance that is comparable to much more expensive ebikes. You should have no problems riding the Nomad 1 through all types of weather because it is IPX6 waterproof.
The Nomad 1 includes a tool kit, charger, front and back fenders, front and rear lights, a bell, and reflectors as complimentary extras. The provided fenders perfectly fit the 4″ tires and do a great job of protecting you and the bike from the elements, even if the reflectors, bell, and rear light are probably just off-the-shelf components.
The bike powers and controls the front light, while a button on the rear light allows it to be turned on or off and includes a built-in battery.
Only the wires that are visible exit from the handlebars and feed into the frame tube midway up the front, above the forks. The cables are then run back to the hub motor, gears, and rear brakes through the frame. It gives the bike a very polished appearance and harmonizes with much more expensive bikes.
Velotric Nomad 1: Motor and Driving
With the assist set to Level 5, the 750W rear hub motor in the Velotric Nomad 1 can produce 1,200W of peak power, so hold on and enjoy the ride. On the Nomad 1, there are five levels and a walk mode, with the assist level matching the fastest speed available with throttle-only movement. I reached speeds of 9.5 mph at Level 1, 11.5 mph at Level 2, 14.5 mph at Level 3, 16-17 mph at Level 4, and 20 mph at Level 5 while cycling on a gravel road. The bike is a Class 2 cycle with a throttle mode speed cap of 20 mph.
The Nomad 1 is enjoyable and powerful. On the first ride, I was grinning broadly. The bike is a delight to ride once you accept that the throttle has a slight latency. As you swiftly increase your speed to 20 mph, it can easily knock you back. I felt secure crossing streets and merging into tinier side roads with vehicles.
The bike’s handlebars are simple to grasp and hold onto, and the seating posture is rather upright. With two springs underneath and a 220mm width, the seat is extremely comfy. I like to keep my seat a little lower when riding in a more relaxed manner. I had no trouble hopping on and off thanks to its step-through frame.
Even when I was pedaling hard, it was uncommon for me to stay on an electric bike and reach the summit of hills similar to the one entering my neighborhood. When it comes to climbing difficult hills, the Nomad 1 outperforms the Discover 1. I used the walk mode more frequently than with any other e-bike I have tested because it is useful with this big, heavy bike.
To complement the tires, wide fenders are offered and already mounted. You will value the fenders for keeping sand, gravel, mud, and rain off of you and your face if you ride the bike on trails or in other bad weather situations.
On the left side of the handlebar, the Nomad 1 has a controller with a power button and an up/down button to adjust the pedal assist. There is a thumb throttle on the left. With this, you can activate the device’s walk mode in addition to its full-throttle and five degrees of pedal assistance. The front light can be turned on or off by pressing and holding the up or down button for a brief period of time.
The bike’s speed, battery level, journey distance, and power assist level are all displayed on the 3.5″ display. Black lettering is displayed on a white LED background on a monochrome screen. Even in bright sunlight, it is sufficiently bright and easy to see.
It takes some getting used to the throttle response. In my experience, I discovered that there was a slight lag. The power doesn’t come on for about a second, and when it does, it’s hard to adjust. The throttle feels more like a go button that is either activated or not because of the lack of responsiveness. The power can be slightly better controlled with some careful feathering, but this bike’s main drawback—and one of the reasons it’s so inexpensive—is that it can’t handle much more power.
Velotric Nomad 1: Battery and Range
You can travel up to 55 miles on a single charge with the Nomad 1 thanks to its “Tesla-grade” 48V 14.4Ah (690Wh) detachable battery with 21700 cells certified by LG/Samsung, which Velotric says “offers a 50% greater range compared to similar bikes in the market”. The Nomad’s maximum range is reduced to 45 to 50 miles while in full throttle mode, though specific results will vary depending on the terrain and weather.
The top-loaded battery is flush with the frame and rests there. Further obscuring the fact that this is an electric bike is the paint, finish, and thickness of the battery, which precisely match the rest of the bike. The battery is detachable with the use of its key, just as other ebikes. To unlock the battery, insert the key and turn it once. This causes the battery to emerge slightly from the frame and become accessible for grasping. When squeezed, a little indicator light on top of the battery lets you easily determine whether you need to recharge.
Velotric Nomad 1: Conclusions
The Nomad 1’s greatest asset is that it can pretty much go anywhere. This bike really shines for its potential to explore off the main path and find new areas, even while its larger and heavier design may not make it as comfortable for commuting on paved roads.
After enthusiastically appreciating every aspect of the Velotric Discover 1, I was thrilled to learn that the firm will soon be introducing its successor. After learning that it was a fat-tire bike, I wasn’t sure what to expect because I hadn’t thought about using this kind of bike for commuting. To travel around town and to enjoy the hundreds of miles of gravel, dirt, and concrete trails and roads in the Denver area, however, the Velotric Nomad 1 is ideal.
Large tires give enough traction, and the ride is incredibly pleasant and smooth. One day while I was testing the bike, there was a minor snowfall, and I was able to ride through some light frozen snow, crunchy dry grass fields, and fallen dry leaves. The robust 750W motor and front shocks helped me feel confident that I could navigate any terrain as I crossed fields with hills and ditches.
Another inexpensive, high-quality e-bike from Velotric has been produced with a few upgrades over the Discover 1. It’s fun to ride, and it might encourage you to venture off the beaten road with the assurance and force necessary to traverse any terrain and endure inclement weather.
