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Eleglide T1 Review: Step-Through E-Bike with Amazing 100km Range! 

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Eleglide T1 Review: Step-Through E-Bike with Amazing 100km Range! 

Low entry, luggage rack, powerful motor: the legal Eleglide T1 Step-Through e-bike offers everything a city bike needs. Buyers will pay only $820 for a few days.

If you ride your electric bike mostly in the city, you don’t necessarily need an e-mountain bike. Because in addition to many advantages such as generally better durability, after all e-mountain bikes are designed for heavier loads, they also have disadvantages. E-mountain bikes rarely offer a low entry, mudguards or a luggage rack. Anyone who is still interested in electric mountain bikes should read our comparison test of inexpensive e-mountain bikes.

A city bike like the Eleglide T1 Step-Through, on the other hand, is primarily optimized for city riding. It offers a practical, low entry, large 27.5-inch tires, a fat battery, a robust luggage rack and stable metal mudguards. In addition, the e-bike is currently exceptionally cheap at Alibaba at the introductory price of $879. After that it should cost $1050. We highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the Eleglide T1 here in the test report.

Brand Name:Eleglide
Model Number:T1 STEP-THRU
Gears:7 Speed
Range per Power:31 - 60 km
Frame Material:Aluminum Alloy
Wheel Size:27.5" x 1.75"
Max Speed:<30km/h, 50KM (Electric Mode), 100KM (Assist Mode)
Voltage:36V
Power Supply:Lithium Battery
Braking System:Front & Rear Disc Brakes + Auto Power-off Design
Torque:50Nm
Charging Time:4-6h
Motor position:Rear Hub Motor
Battery Position:Down Tube
Battery Capacity:12.5Ah
Length of Handlebar:660mm
Height of Saddle (from the ground):32"-39"
Recommended Rider Heights:155-195cm (5.09ft-6.39ft)
Max Load:120KG
Speed Levels of Assist/Electric Mode:12/16/20/23/25 km/h
Rated Power & Voltage:250W, 36V
Max Instantaneous Power:500W
Max RPM:260
Suspension:Mechanical Damping with Lockout

Design and Construction of Eleglide T1

As usual, the Eleglide T1 Step-Through comes partially assembled in a large cardboard box. The front wheel needs to be mounted first. Fortunately, this has a quick-release skewer, which not only makes assembly easier, but also removes the front wheel if you ever get into the embarrassment of patching the tire. The pre-assembled rear wheel does not have a quick release.

Then the handlebars and pedals are screwed tight. Also, the buyer needs to install the front fender, front and rear light, and cycle computer. If you want, you can also attach a throttle grip. We advise against it, as this is not allowed in Europe. The screws provided for the bike computer are missing. The manufacturer assured us that they are usually included.

All in all, we needed a good hour to assemble and tighten all the screws and inflate the tires. That’s more than most other e-bikes we’ve tested.

The workmanship leaves a good impression for an e-bike in this price range. The frame is stable and supports people up to 120 kilograms. According to the manufacturer, the bike weighs 26 kilograms net. However, it shows clear welding seams. The load capacity of the luggage rack is specified as 25 kilograms. That should be sufficient for most cases. The pedals and mudguards are made of metal. Nothing wobbles or rattles when driving.

When it comes to cable management, Eleglide has made things a bit too easy for itself. All seven cables lead from the handlebars in a wide arc to the front before they disappear in the lower part of the frame. That could have been solved smarter. At least Eleglide includes two spiral binders so that the tangle of cables isn’t that loose.

Handlebar and Light

The handlebar looks pleasantly tidy. The large, backlit display is emblazoned in the middle. The driver sees, among other things, the current speed, the selected support level, the battery capacity in five bars and the kilometers driven. A USB-A port for charging smartphones or similar is protected behind a rubber cover below the display. On the left side, the rider can switch the e-bike on and off and select the support level using three buttons. He also controls the light there. Not only the front light is switched on, but also the rear light. This makes the Eleglide T1 Step-Through the first China e-bike from our tests with a rear light that is connected to the electrical circuit. The previous e-bikes either did without a rear light completely or included a simple rear light with batteries. Another advantage: the rear light lights up when braking.

The Eleglide T1 Step-Through has a simple bell as a bike bell. It’s good. After all, many other e-bikes from China come with an electric horn, which is not allowed in Europe. The simple 7-speed Shimano gears are on the right side of the handlebars. This works fine right away. However, the top gear would have liked to have had a slightly higher ratio. If the electric bike travels 25 kilometers per hour, you have to pedal quite hard. The optional throttle grip is actuated with your thumb. We don’t like the look of the brown handles as much. At least they feel good and don’t leave an unpleasant smell of plastic on your hands, as is the case with the Ado A26.

Ergonomics

Very nice: The angle and height of the stem can be adjusted to the driver’s ergonomics via a joint. Together with the sufficiently height-adjustable saddle and the low entry, the Eleglide T1 Step-Through offers pretty much the best ergonomics that we have seen on a China bike so far. Women wearing skirts and older people will appreciate this. However, this only applies to people up to a height of about 190 centimeters. Anyone who has grown taller should get a longer seat post.

Drive

The strength of the suspension fork of the Eleglide T1 Step-Through can be adjusted. Also, you can block them. The tires are quite large at 27.5 inches. In combination with the large and soft Selle Royal saddle, this ensures a comfortable ride. For example, it is no problem to take a curb at a moderate speed with the Eleglide T1 Step-Through.

The simple disc brakes at the front and rear don’t grip perfectly at first. In addition, the front wheel rubs easily. We had to readjust something here first. After that, the brakes are better, but far from perfect. Maybe they’ll grind in over time.

The mudguards not only look useful, they are. When driving through puddles, they do their duty and keep your butt dry. The porter also deserves a special mention at this point. It’s sturdy and comes with a spring clip to hold items on it. If you want, you can attach a bicycle basket with cable ties. For example, it is ideal for transporting purchases. After all, heavy things like drinks are better stored there than in a backpack.

Battery

When starting, support level 0 is always selected, in which the engine is simply switched off. Stage 1 accelerates up to 15 kilometers per hour, stage 5 up to 25. The engine power is always the same, only the top speed varies. A long press on the plus and minus buttons leads to the menu in which the maximum speed can be set to 32 kilometers per hour. This is not allowed in Europe.

The 250 watt motor with its 50 Newton meters is quite strong. It accelerates pleasantly briskly up to the selected top speed. Even moderate inclines are no problem. However, the Eleglide T1 Step-Through is less suitable for steeper mountains.

The simple electronics work less well than, for example, the fun folding bike Laotie FT100. Depending on the gear selected, the motor requires up to two full pedal revolutions before it provides support. He also runs after just as long.

The large 450 watt hour battery is smartly integrated into the frame and can be removed for charging using a key. A corresponding power pack is included. According to Eleglide, you can drive up to 100 kilometers with the T1 before the battery needs to be recharged. However, this value was created under unrealistic specifications. Among other things, the driver is light, the top speed is low, the weather is warm, the route is level, smooth and uninterrupted. We assume a range of up to 50 kilometers for an 85-kilogram driver in city traffic.

Conclusion of Eleglide T1

If you’re currently looking for a very affordable e-bike for the city, it’s your own fault if you don’t buy the Eleglide T1 Step-Through. Because the bike is the best-equipped city e-bike that you can currently buy for around 1000 euros. It also offers fantastic ergonomics thanks to the low entry and the variable stem. In addition, there are the high-quality mudguards, the stable luggage rack, the soft saddle, the large tires, the large battery and the powerful motor. We were also positively surprised by the rear light, which is attached to the battery and lights up when braking.

In addition, Eleglide dispenses with prohibited features such as the electronic horn. The throttle grip is also only optional. This means that the eleglide can legally roll over European roads. The brakes are not perfect. The gear shift would also have benefited from a few more steps.

If you would rather grab a good yet inexpensive e-mountain bike, you should take a look at the test of the Ado D30C. To learn more about inexpensive e-mountain bikes, we recommend our guide to e-mountain bikes under 1500 euros: this is what you need to look out for when it comes to cheap off-road e-bikes.

Price and Where to Buy Cheaper? 

The Eleglide T1 Step-Through costs $879 at Alibaba for the introduction. There are no shipping costs or customs. Will be shipped from a European warehouse. After a short time, the price was then raised to $1040. I will also leave a video review of the bike below, but for better understanding, use subtitles.

Video Review of Eleglide T1: 

Laotie FT100 Review: E-folding Bike and Fat Bike with 1000W

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Laotie FT100 Review: E-folding Bike and Fat Bike with 1000W

Great suspension, powerful motor, big battery, hydraulic brakes: The Laotie FT100 is a foldable e-fat bike to die for. But in the test, the e-bike shows a weakness.

Foldable e-fat bikes range from relatively cheap like the Fiido M1 Pro to expensive like the Mate X. The Laotie FT100 settles in between. The fat e-folding bike is a real revelation for everyone who likes to race over hill and dale. Because the full suspension, together with the 4-inch wide tires, absorbs almost every bump. Even going full throttle over big roots is no problem. Plus it’s got a 1000 watt (peak) rear motor, really good hydraulic brakes, a big 720 watt hour battery and folds up compactly to fit in any trunk.

$1,599.99
$2,299.99
Banggood.com

Its big catch: It has a throttle and is therefore not allowed on roads. In addition, the powerful motor accelerates up to 35 kilometers per hour before switching off. However, this can easily be throttled via the on-board computer. In the test, we show what else we noticed about the Laotie FT100 and for whom the foldable e-fatbike is still something.

BrandLAOTIE
ModelFT100
Controller5-speed boost controller
GearShiman0 7 Speed Transmisson
Booster12-point speed sensor booster
DisplayLCD Display
Frame6061 Aluminium Alloy
SuspensionFront + rear oil spring suspension
HandlebarsAluminium Alloy Ultra-light
BrakeZOOM Power-off Disc Brake
CranksetHAOMENG Crankset
ShifterSHIMAN0 TX50-7
Rear ShiferSHIMAN0 TY300
Color:Blakck Red, Black Yellow
Certification:EN15194
Tax:Free Tax
TireCHAOYANG 20x4in
Three Riding ModePedal Mode, Moped Mode, Electric Mode
Battery Capacity48V 15Ah Li-ion Battery
Maximum RangePure Electric: 45-65km
Power Assistant: 90-120km
Motor48V 1000W
(Brushless rear drive high-speed motor)
Recommended Speed25km/h
Charger48V
Charing Time5-6 Hours
Climbing Angle35°
Max Load150KG
Net Weight27KG
Gross Weight38KG
ScenesCity And Outdoor
Folding Size100x80cm
Unfolding177x120cm
Package Size158x28x79cm

Unboxing of Laotie FT100

As usual, the Laotie FT100 comes to the buyer in a large box. First you insert the front wheel using a quick-release fastener, then attach the handlebars using a quick-release fastener and screw on the front light and the front mudguard using the Allen key provided. That’s it. Thanks to many pre-assembled parts and the quick-release fasteners, we were able to do this faster than with any e-bike that was delivered in a box before. We needed about 15 minutes.

The tires initially have little air. That’s okay with an E-Fatbike, where the recommendation is between 0.2 bar and 0.8 bar. With little pressure, the tires absorb bumps better. If you inflate them tighter, you have better steering characteristics. The brakes are hydraulic and can therefore be adjusted using wheels on the brake handles. It couldn’t be easier. A simple cable lock is also included in the package. Locks can also be smarter and better, as our comparison test of four smart bike locks shows.

Optics & Features

If you want to cruise around inconspicuously, you should generally avoid fat bikes. These are not only a real eye-catcher because of their tires. The tires are significantly louder than their narrow siblings on asphalt, for example. The Laotie FT100 goes one better optically. It is available in yellow and in the red variant that we have. This color can be found not only on the frame but also on the rims in particular. It looks great and attracts curious looks.

The frame itself houses the battery. To the rear it goes up at a slight angle. This gives the e-fatbike a dynamic look. The Laotie FT100 comes with plastic mudguards. It definitely looks better without it. However, we would recommend installing the fenders. Anyone who drives through a muddy puddle with good taste will quickly appreciate it.

The front light offers four bright LEDs, which sufficiently illuminate a path in the dark. The driver controls it via the on-board computer. Unfortunately, the Laotie FT100 doesn’t have a rear light. Other Chinese e-bikes, such as the very good Ado D30C, come with a battery-powered light. However, you can also buy a rear light yourself for a few euros. More on this in our guide to bicycle lights: Bright light with rechargeable battery or battery from 15 euros.

The on-board computer has three buttons and, in addition to the current speed, its easy-to-read display also shows the battery level in five bars, the selected support level, the total kilometers, the trip kilometers and a trip timer. There is no USB-A port for charging mobile devices.

To fold it up, first fold down the handlebars, fold in the pedals and lower the saddle all the way down. The Laotie FT100 folds up via a large safety lever in the middle of the frame. The dimensions are reduced from 177 centimeters long and 120 centimeters high to 100 centimeters long and 80 centimeters high. The whole thing takes less than a minute.

Thanks to the quick-release fasteners on the front wheel and handlebars, the e-bike can be folded up even more compactly without tools. As handy as the foldable pedals are, we would have preferred it if Laotie had attached metal models. The plastic pedals give the impression that they could break under heavy loads. The manufacturer uses standard screws, so you can easily change the pedals.

When folded, the Laotie FT100 fits in any trunk, but weighs a whopping 28 kilograms.

Drive of Laotie FT100

Ergonomically, the Laotie FT100 is particularly suitable for people up to a maximum of 180 centimeters. This is mainly due to the slightly too short seat post. However, this can be exchanged for a longer one from the bicycle trade. The saddle itself doesn’t look particularly sporty, but it is soft and comfortable. The handlebar is high enough.

The suspension is fantastic and soaks up any bumps. You should still put on a helmet. We recommend our comparison test of smart bicycle helmets. Thanks to the suspension and the 4 inch thick 20 inch tires with a grip profile, you can also climb curbs at higher speeds. Even demanding forest trails are no problem for the bike. It masters thick roots, stones and potholes better than the full-fledged e-mountain bikes in our group test. In addition, the strength of the suspension fork can be adjusted and also completely fixed. The hydraulic brakes are excellent. They are very easy to adjust and take to heart.

The Shimano 7-speed gears are fine. However, we would have preferred a lower gear ratio in the lowest gear. The strong engine makes up for this flaw to a large extent. It offers a peak power of 1000 watts. The manufacturer does not provide any information on the nominal power. The electronics are good. The rear engine starts after just a few turns of the pedals and stops supporting you just as quickly. It reacts even better to the throttle. This allows the motor power to be finely dosed and even really difficult passages to be mastered.

The throttle lever cannot be disassembled easily. This is solved better with the Eleglide M1 Plus. There, the throttle grip is only optional. So if you want to drive the Laotie FT100 in Germany, you should avoid public roads. The throttle is usually not a problem off-road and on private roads. It is also permitted in many neighboring countries. Interested buyers should inform themselves urgently in advance.

The maximum speed of the Laotie FT100 is limited to 35 kilometers per hour in the factory settings. However, only 25 kilometers per hour are permitted in Germany. However, the on-board computer allows the speed limit to be reduced or further increased to up to 42 kilometers per hour by pressing the plus and minus buttons for a long time.

Battery of Laotie FT100

The battery, which can be removed using a key, has a capacity of 720 watt hours. This makes it significantly larger than the 614.4 watt hour battery in the foldable E-Fatbike Fiido M1 Pro. The more expensive, but comparably good Mate X is available in a version with an even larger 816 watt hour battery.

Laotie claims that with FT100 in assist mode, you can ride 90 to 120 kilometers before it needs to be reconnected to the grid. Even if many points play a role here, we consider this information to be exaggerated in practice. For this value, Laotie takes a very light driver, a flat asphalt track, a low maximum speed and other idealized factors. With mixed use and a driver’s weight of 85 kilograms, we assume about 50 kilometers before the Laotie FT100 has to be connected to the power supply again. The 48 volt power supply itself has 163.8 watts. Active ventilation ensures that it gets hand-warmed at most. This ventilation is clearly audible when you are in the same room.

Price of Laotie FT100

Banggood sells the Laotie FT100 in red and yellow for 1300 euros each. Alternatively, friends of foldable e-fat bikes can use the Fiido M1 or Fiido M1 Pro. We link these two e-folding bikes with fat bike tires here in the price comparison.

Conclusion

The Laotie FT100 is a fantastic folding e-bike with fat bike tires. Thanks to its price-performance ratio, it is even better than the Mate X. The Laotie FT100 has really good suspension, and you can even adjust the hardness of the front fork. In addition, the engine is strong and fast. The removable battery is really big. The hydraulic brakes are some of the best we’ve seen in our testing so far. Visually, it makes a clear statement. We like that the Laotie has mudguards and a simple cable lock.

We identified the pedals as a weak point. These are foldable, but unfortunately made of plastic. They give the impression of being able to break under greater stress. The seat post is also a bit too short for taller people. In addition, you should only drive the Laotie FT100 in off-road and on private roads. Neither the throttle grip nor the maximum speed or the overpowered motor are allowed.

Who should buy the Laotie FT100?

The Laotie FT100 is for those who enjoy off-road riding. It cuts a fine figure there not only because of its driving characteristics. There, in many cases, it is also legal to drive on roads where the road traffic regulations do not apply. So if you want to go on a day trip, fold up the Laotie FT100, hoist it into your trunk and drive to the appropriate areas.

$1,599.99
$2,299.99
Banggood.com

Video Review of Laotie FT100:

Himo Z20 Review: Is This Xiaomi Electric Bike So Perfect?

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Himo Z20 Review: Is This Xiaomi Electric Bike So Perfect?

The Himo Z20 test was adventurous, but it was finally done. We really wanted to love the machine, as it has very smart features – e.g. I loved the built-in pump – it’s foldable, it’s good quality, its battery can be removed and charged separately, and I could go on and on. The brand in Xiaomi’s interest is exposed, but the price has not been particularly low, they ask for $520 from the EU warehouse, which is on par with similar devices available at home.

$520.00
Alibaba.com
$784.00
$980.00
Aliexpress
$869.99
$1,139.99
Geekbuying.com
Brand Name:HIMO
Model Number:Z20
Gears:6 speed
Range per Power:> 60 km
Frame Material:Aluminum Alloy
Wheel Size:20"
Max Speed:<30km/h
Voltage:36V
Power Supply:Lithium Battery
Braking System:Disc Brake
Torque:30-50 Nm
Charging Time:>3 hours
Motor position:Rear Hub Motor
Battery Position:Integrated Battery
Battery Capacity:10Ah
Tire Width:20 inch
Product name:Folding Electric Bike
Tire:20 Inch
Motor Power:36V 250W
Frame:Aluminum Alloy Frame
Battery:36V 10Ah Lithium Battery
Style:City Folding Ebike
Speed:0-25km/h
Display:LCD
Brake:Front+Rear Disc Brake
Foldable:Yes
Selling Units:Single item
Single package size:100 x 72 x 45 cm
Single gross weight:30 kg

This is the second Z20 that turned around at me, because the transport company broke the first one, the pedal shaft was bent, the chain was constantly dropped, and the paintwork was damaged in various places. Then, as I read the other tests on the net, it turned out that not only did I have a problem with the Himo bike, there were countless problems – e.g. the built-in pump didn’t work in many places – even though I’ve never seen a bike so packaged in my life. Much of the frame is covered with foil, even rubber panties on the wheels, so the company did everything they could to make their product survive the road.

The situation is that the injuries are not only because the transport companies are pounding the box, but also because it is an electric bicycle that can be folded in several places, which would mean that it can be stored in a small space, put in the trunk or put in local public transport. This is not so easy to do, as the 22-pound two-wheeler is quite difficult on the one hand, and when folded, it collapses and collapses, which is normal, but not that it does not have a lower frame support – the Himo ZB20 already has one. 

Instead, it will rest on the plastic disc at the edge of the shift disc that protects the teeth and at the bottom of the seat tube, where the pump is, destroying them, so we can say that this is the first design flaw. The second is that the battery can only be removed from the frame if you fold the bike, in which case you can pull the battery out of the central stiffener tube with the added key if you have a third hand. You need two to keep the folded bike, so it has become terribly difficult to implement the basic idea around which the concept was drawn. In addition to the above, I also missed a part where the two-wheeler can be lifted normally, but there is none, so I was always forced to grab the frame extension above the rear wheel, but that’s far from ideal. In addition, not only the frame but also the handlebars can be folded down, and even the pedals can be closed, but something stays out of the plane all the time, giving the bike a great chance to get caught in something, possibly bumping itself if you put it in the trunk. I defended this by throwing a fluffy blanket on it, but I feel pretty surreal about putting something in the frame every time I pack it into a car.

I described the above at the beginning of the test because when I took the Z20 out of the box, it popped up that it was a very good idea to create a modern “camping bike” that could be folded and transported, but unfortunately they have serious limitations. By the way, the box also comes with 2 sets of fenders, one is BMX plastic, the other is traditional metal, and it will be quite a bit of a bike, it is only safe to put them on and no suitable tools will be added. This is strange because otherwise the bike comes with two hexes and a general wheel wrench, which can be used to mount the pedals, for example – pay attention here, because one is left-handed and the other right-handed – but they no longer give a star, should, so I feel a little incomplete with the kit.

In addition to folding, there is another innovation, the pump built into the saddle tube, which is a good idea, we also used it on the fly for one of the unicyclins that followed the Himo Z20, as a test is usually made up of several of our opinions. The pump will always be with you this way, but since you have to take the seat out all the time, the paint will wear off and you will have to readjust the seat height all the time, which I find annoying, even if you have cleverly scaled the tube so you know where it was originally set. As for the quality, it’s okay, the seams aren’t ugly, the materials are good to the touch, but I’ve seen pictures of others where the welding was specifically slag. This means to me that there is a variance in manufacturing technology, though, it was a test 1 year ago, so I can interpret the facts as having fixed previous mistakes, everyone can decide which one might be true.

Is the Himo Z20 an electric bike with a pedelec system and a 250W electric motor, the essence of which is to help you ride – with a pedal sensor – and it doesn’t have a throttle lever – or rather a ride lever? – so it can only start to rotate the pedal, i.e. it does not qualify as an auxiliary bike. Unfortunately, there is no smooth bike mode, if you turn it on, you can’t just drive by turning the pedals, the engine will definitely help, but this can of course be solved by not turning on the electric mode. The auxiliary power works up to 25 km/h, after which you have to wind on your own, and the energy for this is provided by a 10Ah, 36V – that is 360 Wh – removable battery, which the company says is a moped for 50km, and 80km in pedelec mode. I enveloped in advance that this is definitely impossible because I tend to get 20-22 kilometers out of 336Wh, so here’s a good chance you have to aim for 30-40 kilometers, even if you help me with a roll.

Since this is a bike, you need to do your usual routines before you start:

  • Pump up the wheels to the appropriate value on the tire (a funny addition is that the BMX label is on the tire, even though it’s a city canga in principle).
  • Adjust the angle of the brake lever to make it comfortable, and do the same with the brakes. Hold firmly, but don’t block!
  • Tighten the bolts and, by tightening the steering nut, adjust the steering wheel to the correct angle. If you feel the condition of the fenders is necessary, do the same.
  • Experiment with how high the seat should be, it’s good to be able to stretch your legs as you roll. Make a note of the marking on the quick release.
  • You may want to turn the bike over and see if the wheels are running straight or if there is a sideways deviation, if the wheel is “ticking”.
  • The chain has been lubricated at the factory if you want to lubricate it, but I think it’s fine by default.
  • Charge the battery to the maximum or adjust the angle of the lamp to the correct level.

If you have the above – or a local bike shop will do the zero-kilometer service for you – the ride can start.

My first experience with the Z20 was that its seat was concrete hard, constantly breaking my lower half, though I immediately replaced this item with something more comfortable on all my bikes so far. The other is that although its wheels are 20 inches – which isn’t that small – the Himo shakes like an ox cart. This is basically not a problem with a 26-28 bike, but for more than $500, I would expect some dampening, especially since the 16-inch smaller sister model, the Z16 Maxon, has a rear strut.

It is relatively easy to turn the two-wheeler, but since it can accelerate at maximum assistance for approx. Up to 25 mph, I didn’t feel too motivated to do that.

You can travel in three modes, Eco, Mid and High, which differ only in the degree of assistance and the final speed. The electric motor switches gently, it doesn’t jerk, it’s easy to use, I just tended to work on the electric motor at maximum speed, because that’s the most comfortable way, but it’s not exactly a long-range friendly idea. The six-speed transmission is supplied by Shimano, the Tourney 6 is their base set, not a big number, but it comes from at least one reliable manufacturer.

The problem is that it can be adjusted in a fairly narrow speed range, and although I wound it up to the top of my Devil’s Nose, I almost spit out my lungs, so it’s only of limited use on a mountain, I really need another gear in advance. However, I have stated one of the problems with this, the Himo Z20 has only limited use in hilly terrain. On the other hand, it does its thing in a particularly cultured way on a flat road, the brakes are good too, they slow down brutally when needed, so it’s a good little tool for daily commuting. The shift did its job nicely too, it didn’t get stuck, it didn’t crack, I was actually expecting less from a base model, but that’s a particularly good thing.

I liked the on-board computer, the display is bright – the predecessor model the C20 was said to be pretty anemic – and slap-easy to use. At the bottom is the power button and mode switch, which toggles between TRIP and ODO – daily and total kilometers traveled, while you can use the up and down arrows to scroll through the operating modes. I also have a parking lot that I didn’t use, so it was easier for me to turn off the bike. The display also shows the distance traveled, the speed, the charge – although not in percentage, which is annoying – and the operating status of the lights.

And once the lights are on, they’ve been working on a battery solution at the back, which is why it doesn’t work like a brake light, while at the front a moderately no lamp works, but that can be replaced at any time with a solution thrown on the steering wheel. And if you’re already on a handlebar, there’s an absolutely well-functioning, traditional bell, or an almost perfect stand on the side of the frame, rugged, strong, well-used. The pedals are made of plastic, they can be folded up, which in principle would make it easier to unload the vehicle, but it’s actually superfluous, but it doesn’t hurt anyone, and my foot doesn’t slip off it, so it does its job.

Finally, what’s the main problem with the Himo Z20: it doesn’t perform well as a bike, it works more like an electric moped instead.

To shed more light on what I mean by this, let’s take the basic case of having to commute 10-15 miles a day, so I buy myself an electric bike. The terrain is mostly flat, but there are hills in it and I will get to my starting point by train. This is completely lifelike anyway, in principle the Himo Z20 was invented for this, as it can be folded. Let’s see what happens: I get on the train, pull up the bike, which is too heavy and can be folded down unscrupulously, and then I get to the end point, where I do the same backwards, pull it off the train, and then start riding. Or I would just ride it, but let my pedal pedal if the bike can accelerate to 25 km/h anyway with the help of the electric motor, and it pretty much holds that.

Since the range provided by the steps is not wide enough, I can’t change it, so I can’t go with it much faster – I managed to do it at 27-28 km/h, but there is no help here anymore – and then I reach the mountain, but here I have to switch back to avoid let me fight the ascendant. The Z20 glides perfectly on the flat road – perfect for the city – but shakes everywhere else, and the seat is uncomfortable, so I can barely get off it after a bigger lap – the Old Lake in Tata or Lake Venice is a good reference. The solution is to replace this ringworm seat with a normal one and drive flat on the Z20, but since its range is somewhere around 35 kilometers below me – and I’m only 73 pounds – in maximum gear, it can be easily replaced with a scooter the same range with the same weight and the same amount of money, only there can you move even faster.

Conclusions of Himo Z20

I think the Himo Z20 is a school example of how a lot of good ideas will make a product of relatively good quality, but only usable in the city – albeit great there – because of the narrow range of uses. First of all, the stuff is hard enough to fold halfway down, and it doesn’t stop when folded because there is no frame support at the bottom. Putting it on a vehicle sucks, in the trunk you beat yourself up. It accelerates to 25 km/h on its own with maximum assistance, so it’s really easier to just switch it on smoothly and let it work than it does. The transmission is good, very fast, buttery, but the gears can be switched in a wide enough range, so you are destroyed uphill on a hill, and you can’t go flat with it fast enough, unlike some 26-28-inch models – such as with the Samebike SY26 – which can help up to 35 km/h.

The undoubted fact that the removable and rechargeable battery, the built-in pump and the collapsible look are a good idea, only the exchange of ideas cannot be realized if it is strung around a faulty concept. But luckily there is a solution to this as well, so it was not in vain to read the test, the magic word: ADO A20. It is also a folding, removable cordless electric bike that goes at 35 km/h, has a 350W engine, a six-speed transmission, can be supported normally, has adjustable steering shock absorbers, has a handle that makes it comfortable to lift and is even cheaper. That is, it beats the Z20 in all areas, so anyone looking for a good little urban folding vehicle might prefer the A20.

The Himo Z20 costs $520, while the ADO A20 costs $490, both from EU warehouses.

$520.00
Alibaba.com
$784.00
$980.00
Aliexpress
$869.99
$1,139.99
Geekbuying.com

Pros: 

  • Removable battery
  • Good quality
  • Easy to use
  • Collapsible
  • Pump in the saddle tube
  • Great brakes
  • The shift is very good

Cons: 

  • A good basic concept is hampered by lame realization
  • No unassisted mode (unless you turn it off)
  • There is no bottom support, it is difficult to fold and remove the battery
  • Hard
  • The range that the shift encompasses is not wide enough, so go up the hill with it
  • Expensive
  • If you fold it, it is impossible to grasp it meaningfully
  • The range doesn’t even come close to what the factory promised

Video Review of Himo Z20: 

Engwe C20 Pro Review: Compact E-Bike With Range of 150 km!

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Engwe C20 Pro Review: Compact E-Bike With Range of 150 km!

The small well-established world of cheap 20-inch folding electric bikes must take a dim view of Engwe’s arrival on this buoyant market. The brand hitherto known and recognized for its FAT BIKE electric bikes is adding a C20 and C20 PRO series to its catalog.

$589.00
Alibaba.com
$936.22
$1,206.37
Geekbuying.com
$999.99
$1,399.99
Banggood.com

These electric bikes are folding models with 20-inch wheels which aim to compete in particular with the HIMO brand with its Z20 while offering services close to a FAT BIKE for the C20 PRO.

Brand Name:Engwe
Model Number:C20 Pro
Gears:7 Speed
Range per Power:> 80 km
Frame Material:Aluminum Alloy
Wheel Size:20"
Max Speed:<30km/h
Voltage:36V
Power Supply:Lithium Battery
Braking System:Disc Brake
Charging Time:8 hours
Motor position:Rear Hub Motor
Battery Position:Buiilt-In Battery
Battery Capacity:36V19.2AH
Tire Width:20*3"
Motor Power:250W
Display:LCD Display
Body weight:22KG
Suitable for:165-195CM People
Maximum Weight150KG

A SEMI-FAT BIKE

For those who don’t know them, the Engwe C20 bikes belong to the family of adult folding electric bikes with 20-inch wheels which aims to reconcile compactness and comfort.

The Engwe C20 exists in two versions, normal and Pro as here in my test. The difference relates to the width of the wheels, 3 inches on the pro against 2.4 on the standard C20 and especially to the capacity of the battery which is huge on the Pro: 19.2Ah! Unheard of that provides twice the autonomy of a 10Ah battery usually used on a good quality electric bike, and here the C20 Normal.

The promise of the Engwe C20 Pro? No less than 150 km in assisted pedaling is announced by the manufacturer! It is of course necessary to put things into perspective because it will depend on the road, your weight, even the outside temperature. In all cases the 100 km will be exceeded.

In the commercial photos I thought the Engwe C20 was a pure designed HIMO brand bike. At the face-to-face reception, I discovered a slightly larger bike halfway between city bikes like HIMO Z20 and all-terrain models like FAT BIKE, a market in which Engwe is the leader.

It’s rather a good surprise for big and strong people looking for a compact and versatile electric bike that’s easy to ride or store and that doesn’t seem ridiculous in use.

The other features are of a good standard, including a spring-loaded mechanical front fork for comfort, a Shimano 7-speed system, a large on-board computer, disc brakes, kickstand and an LED system.

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

No risk that the Engwe electric bike will arrive damaged due to the many protections in the box.

For transport optimization reasons, the assembly must be finalized after receipt, i.e.:

  • Mount front wheel
  • Assemble pedals
  • Attach the handlebar stem

A manual presenting the bike is provided as well as a second dedicated to the on-board computer. 

Engwe provided a set of spanners for assembly, but in my case I had to take an open-end spanner thinner than the one delivered from my kit to unscrew the nuts on the front wheel that were too tight.

A BRAND WITH CONSTANT QUALITY

Engwe manufacturing quality level has nothing more to demonstrate. The C20 is also a beautiful product in terms of assembly, finish and components.

The frame is made of aluminum alloy with welds.

The front fork has single spring, non-locking suspensions. They have a possible travel distance of 50 mm.

The cable paths are clean even if they remain partially visible.

The saddle is of good width with a comfortable material.

Its stem is adjustable in height with a traditional lock.

What is less generalized here is the possibility of also adjusting the height of the handlebar stem so as to optimize comfort even for the tallest. The manufacturer announces a possibility of use for people of height up to about 1.90 m which seems consistent to me (I am 1.80 m tall).

The handlebar level, the handles are pleasant material level.

The one on the right has an acceleration function, the famous “pure electric” mode, which unfortunately takes this bike out of the e-bike regulations (standard EN15194).

Pending a change in the regulations (electric balance bikes without pedaling are now authorized) the VAE Engwe C20 PRO must be used off public roads.

I asked Engwe how to deactivate the handle so that only pedal assistance is left. The on-board computer chosen by Engwe, an YL80C allows this, but these menus are not open for configuration.

To return to the handlebars, you have a bell, a Shimano system for very fluid shifting to the thumbs and therefore in a central position, steerable, the on-board computer. Engwe can afford to place it in this ergonomic position because there is a remote control unit that allows you to change modes or control the display.

Battery-powered LED lighting is present at the front.

The bike is equipped with a Shimano 7-speed system.

The motor is placed in the rear wheel.

A BOOSTED 250 W MOTOR

Engwe mounts on its C20 bike a Bafang motor, a recognized brand in the market. The 250W maximum power eventually opens up the prospect of certification.

The Engwe C20 PRO bike tested here offers 5 levels of assistance. These levels of assistance correspond to the electrical power supplied to accompany your pedaling.

They also condition the behavior of the accelerator grip, which is limited to the maximum speed associated with the mode selected.

I rotated the wheel without resistance in suspension to better determine the speed levels. You might be amazed at level 5 which is capable of propelling the bike to 38km/h. In fact, in practice once seated on the bike, you will never reach this speed due to your weight.

On a 20-inch wheel bike with a 7-speed gear block, human pedaling becomes impossible above 25 km/h because you have to grind too much.

The large LCD screen is readable and well thought out. It is possible to view the battery charge level, mode, instantaneous, maximum and median speed, last trip and total distance. Changing the display is done simply using the remote control.

The C20 PRO is very pleasant. The driving position is ergonomic and above all the comfort is there whatever the terrain.

With its 3-inch-wide wheels and telescopic fork, the C20 PRO is at home on dirt roads or bad roads. The sensations approach the one I have with my fat bikes. This versatility of the C20 PRO, halfway between a compact city bike and a Fat bike, is a strong point that sets it apart from the competition.

I have some improvement remarks for Engwe. You have to be careful because the handle assistance works even when stationary. You could inadvertently jump your bike by manipulating the handle while getting off the bike without turning off the assistance. I would have preferred the assistance to only kick in at 6 km/h.

As for autonomy, we have to wait a little longer so that I can confirm the figures allowed by the huge 36V 19.2Ah or 691Wh battery. I have almost no doubt to reach the minimum 120km with a full tank, sorry a recharge.

It takes 6 hours to replenish the huge battery of the C20 Pro. The battery is integrated in the frame as on the Fat Bike series. It is possible to extract it with a key to recharge it or store it outside the bike.

20 inch bikes have become popular because, when they are foldable, they can easily fit in the trunk of a regular vehicle or accompany you on public transport. This is the case of the C20 PRO which measures approximately 100 x 74 x 57 cm folded.

A VERY COMPETITIVE PRICE

Engwe scores points in this new market for 20-inch folding bikes both in terms of service and price. I hope that Engwe will propose an update of its counter so as to comply with the EN15194 standard.

If you are looking to buy this product at the best price, I urge you to read my current good plan: Engwe C20 and C20 Pro, compact folding electric bikes on sale from $600.

Engwe C20 Pro and C20 VERDICT:

A new game in the world of compact e-bikes with the Engwe C20 Pro. While remaining very compact, this model offers wide 2-inch wheels to go almost anywhere and above all a long battery life for a range of more than 120 km. I will also leave a video review of Engwe C20 Pro below, but it is better to use subtitles for understanding.

$589.00
Alibaba.com
$936.22
$1,206.37
Geekbuying.com
$999.99
$1,399.99
Banggood.com

Video Review of Engwe C20 Pro: 

SCOTEX H20 Review: Comfort While Driving Here!

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SCOTEX H20 Review: Comfort While Driving Here!

We have finally grabbed a real, high-performance scooter in the person of the SCOTEX H20. The “little one” is capable of  500W power, its chassis is brutal, it is also suitable for off-roading due to cam tires, and the loose range of 30-40 km tells us everything we have tried so far.

$363.00
Alibaba.com

This is no longer the category of the game, massive irons are responsible for staying on the road and for your safety. The price does not evoke the machines of the entry category, in fact, the SCOTEX H20 is a real leap compared to them. They ask for $360 from Alibaba from a USA or EU warehouse.

Brand Name:SCOTEX
Model Number:H20
Power:350-500w
Voltage:36V, 48V
Charging Time:6-8h
Foldable:Yes
Range Per Charge:33-42km
Max Speed:25km/h
Category:Two-wheel Scooter
Applicable People:Unisex
Battery:48V/36V
Motor power:500W
Color:Black/Red/OEM color
Brake:Front Drum Brake rear disc brake +e brake
Tire:10 inch tubeless tire
Suspension:front and rear dual suspension
Material:Magnesium alloy
PackingN.W. 18Kg/G.W.20Kg
Packing Size:128.7 x 24.4 x 57.1 cm

Unboxing of SCOTEX H20

I unwrapped the packaging, highlighting the hex keys I added, the charger and the description. You may want to flip through the latter, as you will need to mount the roller handlebar on the stub. It’s important to tighten the two retaining bolts on the handlebars out of muscle, because it’s not very funny when it turns on the fly – it happens based on events. You also need to inflate the 10-inch tires, luckily it is motorized so it will go with virtually any pump. The battery is on medium voltage at the factory, so you need to charge it to maximum, which will take a good few hours as it has a brutal capacity of 48V/36V.

Design of SCOTEX H20 

It also looks like it’s not a downtown toy, massive irons everywhere, brutally wide-acting, 10-inch off-road tires, front and rear disc brakes. This scooter is designed for beating, this is also due to the spring members, you can actually jump on it, then the technique won’t stop. Its maximum load capacity is 120 kg, but I also believe that it will take a person of this weight. 

This is funny because this was also written for the Kugoo Kirin S1 Pro, but it would be an insult for the SCOTEX H20 to compare the two products. The height of the handlebars is adjustable, so we can say that not only the heavier individuals were meant, but also the taller ones. The manufacturer also mentions it in the press and we have tested it to make both its shock absorbers and cam tires fully suitable for off-road use; it was a great place on the rocky, full-fledged paths of the Devil’s Ridge – but more on that later.

There are quite a few controls on the steering wheel. On the left is the button on the electric horn, which in my experience is not loud enough and is also lame. The lights – there are a total of 6 on it, 1-1 on the front and back and four on the stage – can also be switched on from the left. The front lamp has a surprisingly good light anyway. This is where the three-position switch on the turn signal is located – red lights flashing orange at idle on the edges of the step. Last but not least, here’s the drive switch – the most exciting button on the entire scooter.

On the right you can see the display, the lower one shows the voltage – up to 48V – and unfortunately it looks pretty bad in sunlight, while the upper one acts as an on-board computer. The color panel shows the usual data – charge, speed, degree, etc. – displays, although it should be added that the user manual does not refer to the 5-6 different functions that you can toggle with the On/Off button, so some of them are still a problem. The small plastic protruding next to the display is the “throttle lever” which can be pulled with the index or middle finger. Fortunately, the angle of the brake levers can be adjusted freely – like a bicycle – so you have enough space to brake with your finger.

There is a cruise control, but it was turned off at the factory for some reason and can only be turned on in the service menu, which in turn is not made public, so I don’t really know where to put it. Luckily, even in the long run, pulling the lever isn’t particularly tiring – the design of my motorcycle gloves, for example, is such that my fingers are involuntarily bent, so it’s almost natural to use the lever.

Riding and use of SCOTEX H20 

The gas is a bit difficult to dispense at the start, an anthill, but not dangerously pulled, but then it pulls nicely and linearly, and after getting used to it, it won’t be a problem anymore – it’s a bit like breaking a foreign car, you can get used to it . The brightness of the secondary display is perfect, even in sunny weather it was not a problem to read the data. The three gears are practically just one speed limiter: it limits the top speed to 10/15/25 km/h. What I didn’t like, however, is the location of the lock key and the design of the ignition switch. 

Above the rear wheel of the H20 is a metal grille with a handle at the end, which makes it much easier to lift and carry the roller, but even a storage box can be attached here after some DIY.

The easiest way to get the scooter up from the folded position is to load the rear metal bracket with one foot and push the handlebars firmly forward with both hands. The security pins will click loudly if you did it right. The scooters have been taken to the Devil’s Nose for the last few times, because here you can test the vehicles on all kinds of surfaces. There is a rough ascent and slope, a stepped surface that can be used as a “shaker bench”, a forest, a stony and scattered dirt road, and the traffic is also relatively small.

Nevertheless, it is not the unmanageable, unbridled force that wants to unscrew the government from your hand and break into your life every millisecond, but a controllable but great power that not only doesn’t scare you, but it can be specifically addictive. In 500W mode, on the other hand, it’s a bit sleek. By that I just want to say that the physics can’t be defied by the SCOTEX H20 either.

On the one hand, it dampens very well, springs up nicely, and on the other hand, it fully absorbs the bounces caused by bumps in the field, and that’s really the best thing about it. The Csabs only chamomed with the unicycles as I walked past them with the SCOTEX H20, the difference in the field was extreme. The otherwise fast-paced terrain in the video was just my first kilometers. Now imagine what this roller can do with an experienced user. It was quite a shocking experience anyway, it’s just hard to travel normally with him, he wants to have animals and he doesn’t punish him for it.

The top speed of 25 km/h is amazingly liberating and exciting. Childishly pulls me by the handle, walks me off the designated road and walks through the grass, bumps, lying police, benches. I’m not saying it’s all a pleasant feeling or that the first shock absorber doesn’t pop up, in that the big word is that you can do it without a hitch. Speed ​​is not everything, of course, you have to be able to stop. Again, there is no reason to complain, the two disc brakes slow down brutally, the front brake is applied properly and loaded backwards with highly recommended consumption to avoid head-on recovery. As a result of the high tempo and the cruel braking effect, you can carve good ones with it, so the SCOTEX H20 also provides a fun part.

The former is slower, shorter in range and weaker. A scooter this big is half a kilowatt of “daddy” enough, so you’ll be looking at the hills from a distance, because it’s going to go up on them terribly miserably. Plus, on a machine that can load up to 120kg, there’s a good chance there will be more people standing up, so stay with the SCOTEX H20, even if it’s more expensive. Its direct competitor is the Kugoo G2 Pro, which costs pretty much the same but shorter range and is weaker, and the Bezoir S2, which is more expensive but more powerful. 

What God gives, I’m going around the lake, all of a sudden I see someone who’s obviously not going 25 with his scooter, so I say I’ll go after him and ask what kind of plane he has. I met a good head guy who just had the aforementioned Kugoo G2 Pro, which is also Alibaba’s own brand like SCOTEX. I ask how old the scooter is and how many kilometers it has, the answer is, “every time I reach 2,000 kilometers, the counter turns around and resets itself”. It has been in use for more than 3 years, has been turned around twice, ergo has covered more than 4,000 kilometers, claims to have seen no reduction in its range compared to the factory, and has not required any maintenance work during these 3 years.

The brakes, the tires were factory-fitted (true, they were already worn, but the grooves were still visible), and seriously, it looked really good. Except for the side of the performer, which he says has been pretty much beaten down by quite a few and sometimes pretty serious falls. 

I would like to talk about one more thing, but only briefly, because it is unnecessary to insist on the subject: this scooter should already be numbered on the basis of its factory performance, even a lot of mopeds.

Summary of SCOTEX H20 

I start with the negatives because there are very few of them. One of its weight, 18 kilograms in houses without an elevator, is very hard to move. In return, however, light years ahead of the average “cheap” urban scooters and put it together so I believe this will not be a handful of screws in 2 years. It accelerates brutally, climbs the vast majority of inclines, has a really long range, is comfortable to stand on with parallel legs, has good lights, a parade of braking, but what’s really brilliant about it is its chassis. It greatly dampens road errors, goes off-road without question and is stable at a top speed of 25 km/h. In fact, it’s not child’s play, it’s in the hands of adults, but it’s a really grateful monster, a real addictive experience to go with, so for me, it’s highly recommended.

They are asking for  $360 from Alibaba’s USA and EU warehouse and that’s what the vehicle is really worth. With such stuff, one plans for the long term and offers a cheaper alternative to city commuting in addition to the current petrol prices, but because of its range it is perfect even for scootering between smaller settlements, and if you get on a dirt road or just hit a good one, it won’t come embarrassed.

Pros:

  • Robust frame
  • Percussive but controllable performance
  • Switchable drive, two power levels
  • Brutal brakes
  • Excellent, off-road suspension

Cons: 

  • Weight 18 kilograms
  • The lock key is in the wrong place and can be dangerous if you fall
$363.00
Alibaba.com

Video Review Of Scotex H20:

ADO DECE 300 Review: Stylish and Productive Electric Bike 2022

1
ADO DECE 300 Review: Stylish and Productive Electric Bike 2022

Electric bikes are quickly conquering more and more slices of the market than their peers without an electric motor. Until now, it was easy to recognize an e-bike, due to its not very harmonious shapes due to the integration of the battery pack, but things are finally changing.

The ADO DECE 300, which we had the pleasure of testing and which we want to present to you in this review, is characterized by a unique design that has finally given a break with the past, with elegant, thin and harmonious lines that make it look like a classic bike without an engine. electric made in a design studio.

ADO is one of the best electric vehicle brands in China, a young brand that we already got to know a few months ago with the review of the A20F model. With the DECE 300, ADO wanted to aim even higher, creating a product capable of distinguishing itself not only for the beautiful design, which immediately catches the eye, but also for the high-end technical characteristics, which we had the opportunity to test for almost a month.

$930.00
Alibaba.com

Compared to the A20F model (e-bike with fat wheels, with folding frame), this new e-bike has larger and thinner wheels that are 27.5 inches high and 1.95 inches wide, which guarantee extreme grip on city streets with the possibility of crossing dirt roads without problems.

As anticipated before, ADO DECE 300 is not just design, we find in fact an aluminum alloy frame, a 250 Watt brushless motor (the maximum available for European legislation), an 9-speed Shimano gearbox, an IPX5 waterproof rating, a declared range of 90 km, hydraulic disc brakes and much more.

Ado is a relatively young company that deals only with electric vehicles, whose founder is an advocate of environmental protection and ecological commuting. Its name ADO is the acronym of “A Dece Oasis” (literally translated Oasis in the desert).

After this brief introduction, let’s move on to the ADO DECE 300 review right away.

Brand Name:ADO
Model Number:DECE 300
Gears:11 Speed
Range per Power:> 60 km
Frame Material:Aluminum Alloy
Wheel Size:27.5”, 27.5''*1.95''
Max Speed:<30km/h
Voltage:36V
Power Supply:Lithium Battery
Braking System:Disc Brake
Torque:30-50 Nm
Charging Time:>3 hours
Motor position:Rear Hub Motor
Battery Position:Integrated Battery
Battery Capacity:10.4AH
Battery:36V 10.4Ah Lithium Battery
Color:Grey and Silver
Motor:Brushless
Brake:Disc Brakce
Units:Single item
Single package size:190 x 120 x 65 cm
Single gross weight:35.000 kg
Package Type:Carton box

Package Contents

Right from the box and its packaging, I can underline how much care has been devoted to this e-bike. In fact, ADO DECE 300 comes inside a very sturdy cardboard, completely immersed in the expanded foam, as you can see in the photos below, a solution that makes it practically safe from any impact and protection from even the worst couriers. This feature alone assures us of the arrival of a perfectly intact product.

ADO DECE 300 arrives almost completely assembled with the exception of the saddle, handlebar and front wheel, in order to take up as little space as possible. In the next paragraph we will see all the steps to assemble it.

In the package we find:

  • ADO DECE 300 E-bike
  • Charger with European plug
  • Instruction manual (multilingual including Italian)
  • Quick installation guide (multilingual including Italian)
  • Smartphone holder to be installed on the handlebar
  • Assembly tools set

Assembly

To assemble the ADO DECE 300, it takes about 15 minutes. Below you will find all the steps to follow in the correct order to assemble the e-bike quickly and smoothly, while in the photo gallery above you will find the images that will make the whole procedure clearer.

  1. First of all, let’s start assembling the seat without worrying too much about the height to which to adjust it, which we will evaluate better later.
  2. We then move on to installing the handlebar, removing the 4 bolts that lock the front handlebar locking plate using the hex key provided.
  3. At this point we install the handlebar and block it with the plate we removed, properly tightening the 4 bolts and making sure that the cross is well in the center of the plate hole.
  4. Now turn the bike over, being careful to move the on-board computer on the handlebar so as not to damage it and remove the metal bar with the supplied key, locked by 4 bolts (2 internal and 2 external) present at the end of the fork.
  5. Before inserting the wheel, we slightly spread the brake disc pads.
  6. Now let’s take the quick coupling pin which will subsequently be mounted on the front wheel, removing the lateral data and its respective spring. At this point we insert it into the front wheel and reassemble the spring and the nut that we had just unscrewed.
  7. Now insert the wheel, making sure to match the direction in which the brake disc is present, with the caliper on the fork.
  8. At this point it is good practice to adjust the position of the brake caliper by slightly unscrewing the two hexagonal nuts that keep the caliper locked on the fork. Now we just have to hold down the brake of this caliper and re-lock the nuts while holding back. If you have done this correctly, the same space will remain on both sides between the wheel disc and the two pads, as you can see in the photo.
  9. All that remains is to mount the pedals, characterized by the letter L “Left”, for the left pedal and R “Right” for the right pedal and your ADO DECE 300 will be ready.
  10. As a last step, all that remains is to adjust the height of the seat, its forward or backward travel and the inclination of the levers on the handlebar.

If necessary, also adjust the two screws that regulate the passage of the chain from one ratio to another. In my case there was no need as the gearbox was already perfectly adjusted from the factory.

Design, dimensions, materials, weight and frame

The frame of the ADO DECE 300 is made of aluminum alloy, characterized by a design that I personally find beautiful, as well as the choice of the metallic gray color. The finishes are practically perfect, in fact not even the slightest sign of welding is noticeable, a truly valuable result. When it comes to design, materials and finishes, it’s hard to wish for anything better. The wiring is also done with great care.

This e-bike supports people weighing up to 120 kg and a height between 165 and 190 cm. For my height and weight, 185 cm for 85 kg, the electric bike is already perfect with the factory settings, I just had to adjust the seat excursion slightly further back for greater comfort and to have a more aerodynamic position during its use.

The dimensions of this electric bike are respectively 180 cm in length, for a height from the ground of 110 cm for the handlebar and a saddle whose excursion varies from 80.5 to 95.5 cm in height from the ground. The width from one pedal to the other, including the kickstand, is about 40 cm, while that of the handlebar is 64 cm.

The net weight of ADO DECE 300 is around 22 kg including the battery that we find inserted on the central bar of the frame, in a perfectly linear way so as to disguise itself with the lines of the frame, to the point of making it more like a bike without an electric motor, compared to one of its category. In fact, during the review, quite a few people asked me, doubting that this was a pedal assisted e-bike.

The pedals are also excellent, made of aluminum alloy, which guarantee perfect foot grip, with a truly beautiful design.

Engine, Performance and Driving Comfort

On ADO DECE 300 we find a 250 Watt brushless motor that reaches 380 rpm, mounted on the rear wheel hub, with G-Drive 2.0 control system, which according to ADO should simulate the presence of a torque sensor, so as to calibrate better pedaling assistance even downhill.

The speed up to which the engine is assisted is 25 km/h, as sanctioned by European legislation, speed reached without problems with a thrust of the engine that is felt, despite my size of 85kg. On this bike we do not find any accelerator, therefore this makes it fully compliant with the laws in force in Italy, unlike the ADO A20F model, in which the accelerator was instead present.

The 42Nm of torque guarantees excellent pedaling assistance which is more than good even on fairly steep climbs, certainly an added value combined with the 11 ratios offered by the Shimano gearbox mounted on this e-bike.

In the practical test, the driving comfort is more than satisfactory on asphalted tracks, thanks to the generously sized wheels and the soft but not too soft seat, even if in the rear, on long journeys, in dirt or on bad roads, you can hear the absence of a rear shock absorber.

The engine is decidedly silent and does not clearly reproduce that classic hiss of the electric motors of e-bikes. The pedal assistance calibration is quite conservative, without intervening abruptly as soon as you touch the pedals, remaining active for just under a second when you stop pedaling.

Wheels, Shock Absorbers, Lights

The wheels mounted on ADO DECE 300 are 27.5 x 1.95 inches, capable of giving excellent stability and control on different types of tracks. On the side of the tires, we find the maximum level indicated regarding the inflation pressure, which must be between 2.8 and 4.5 BAR.

At the front we find a double front shock absorber present in the fork legs, with the ability to set the preload or to lock and unlock the shock absorber using a control on the handlebar.

I would certainly not have minded finding a rear shock absorber whose absence unfortunately is felt on long journeys, as already anticipated, a choice perhaps dictated to obtain a cleaner bike design, which however could have been remedied with a shock absorber present directly on the seat post.

As for use in low light conditions, we find a LED light more than enough to have good visibility at night, while unfortunately we only find a reflector on the back.

Handlebar, Controls, On-Board Computer and maximum power release

The handlebar is the right width, so as not to negatively affect the precision and ride comfort. On the left side we find the controls to manage the on-board computer (position at hand so as not to compromise safety while driving) and the lever that operates the front shock absorber lock via cable.

Centrally we find an excellent on-board computer, model S830, perfectly visible even under direct sunlight, equipped in the lower part with a USB type A port.

On the handlebar it is also possible to install a support on which to mount our smartphone that can be recharged using a USB cable to be connected to the on-board computer. On the right side, on the other hand, we find the selectors to change gears and the bell in a classic and non-electronic bicycle style.

There are three assisted pedaling levels, with different speed steps up to 25 km/h, as per legislation.

Gearbox and Brakes

The rear derailleur mounted on ADO DECE 300 is an 11-speed Shimano, with 11 rear sprockets and 1 front chainring. The gearbox, already at the factory, in my case is perfectly adjusted, with fluid, precise and fast changes, implemented by the selector on the handlebar.

Two disc brakes are finally mounted on the front and rear wheel of the hydraulic and non-mechanical type, which ensure smooth and safe braking, brakes initially to be calibrated to center them with the disc as on any bike, in order to have a braking perfect.

Battery, Autonomy and Charging

The battery mounted on the ADO DECE 300 is 36 volts, 10.4Ah for 374.4Wh. It has a metallic black color that distinguishes it from the frame.

The battery can be recharged either by leaving it inside the bike using the plug on the side of the battery, or by extracting it using one of the two supplied keys.

The charger is 2A and 42 volts. The autonomy of about 75 km with pedal assistance of level 1 and 55 km with pedal assistance of level 3. Surely what affects this figure is my size and the presence of slight climbs made during the tests of this review.

The recharge time required to bring the battery to 100% is about 6.5 hours, a little excessive time in general, for those who would like to use the e-bike, both in the morning and in the afternoon.

Conclusions, purchase, shipping and warranty

ADO DECE 300 enters by right at the top of the best e-bikes on the market. It excels not only for its incredible design, but also for many other features such as gearbox, range, finishes, engine, brakes and build quality.

Unfortunately, all this has a considerable cost, as it should be for a high-end product, proposed on the official ADO website at a price of €2,099. Below you will find all the links for purchasing the ADO DECE 300 from the official ADO store, from Alibaba where you can save a little more.

Moving on to our conclusions, like any product this too is not free from defects or features that could be improved. You feel a little the absence of a rear shock absorber on rough roads, moreover, if we can define it as a defect, I found a position of the stand, which once inserted collides with the left pedal, when we have to move the bike backwards with the tripod inserted.

Given the quality of the product, lastly, I would have preferred that the accessories as a gift (pump and smartphone holder) were not present in the package, even if they are a gift, as they do not reflect the quality of the product, but rather affect it. Apart from this, however, we are faced with an excellent product, certainly thanks to a great job by ADO.

Here are the pros and cons found:

Pros of ADO DECE 300:

  • Fantastic design
  • Build quality, materials and finishes
  • Driving comfort and stability
  • Hydraulic brakes
  • Excellent 11-speed gearbox
  • Autonomy
  • Exceptional packaging
  • On-board computer full of functions in the secret menu
  • Removable battery

Cons of ADO DECE 300: 

  • Kickstand that, once inserted, collides with the pedal
  • Useless wheel inflation pump
  • Lack of a rear shock absorber
$930.00
Alibaba.com

Video Review of ADO DECE 300

KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro Review: Improved E-Scooter 2022

3
KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro Review: Improved Electric Scooter 2022

Until recently, anyone who wanted to move quickly from A to B within a city without a car had only a bicycle to choose from. After e-bikes, e-scooters are now becoming increasingly popular and enjoy a high level of customer satisfaction, especially in urban city life – electromobility is in full swing. If you don’t want to use the regional sharing providers, you can get your own vehicle. In this review, we will focus on the new KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro e-scooter, which is quite interesting due to its low price.

The Kirin S1 Pro from KUGOO not only manages to attract attention visually, but also knows how to deliver with its performance data. The brushless DC motor offers a total of 350 watts and thus provides the necessary propulsion for a total of 30 kilometers. The maximum speed is 30 kilometers per hour, but this reduces the range in the long run – but that should be obvious. The two 8 inch solid rubber tires allow only little wear and are durable; however, driving becomes difficult on rough or gravel roads.

Brand:KUGOO
Type:Electric Scooter
Model:KUGOO S1 Pro
Color:Black / White
Speed Mode:15km/h, 25km/h, 30km/h
Battery:18650 Li-ion battery pack
Mileage:30 km
Max. Speed:30km/h
Max. Load:120 kg
Light:Front lamp, tail light
Permissible Gradient(Depends on your weight):15 degree
Battery Capacity:7.5Ah
Battery Voltage:36V
Motor Type:Brushless DC motor
Motor Rated Power:350W
Max. Motor Rotate Speed:700R/min
Max. Torque:13.3N.M
Charging Time:4h
Wheel Size:8-inch solid honeycomb explosion-proof tire
Braking Distance:4m
Bluetooth:Not support
APP:Not support
Product Weight:11kg
Package Weight:15kg
Product Dimensions:1050 x 450 x 930/1070/1160mm(Unfold)
Package Dimensions:1030 x 210 x 405mm
Folding Size:960 x 210 x 330mm

KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro as an all-rounder among electric scooters

While the most important facts have already been said, we would like to get into the actual test report. The KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro is delivered in stylish packaging with relevant imprints. The e-scooter itself is well packaged inside and is adequately padded. The brushed aluminum from which the scooter was made is immediately noticeable. The first impression after removing it from the packaging is that it is really high quality and turns out to be a full-fledged e-scooter from KUGOO. The package content also consists of the e-scooter, a power adapter for charging, the user manual and a hexagon wrench.

The KUGOO scooter is folded and must first be pulled into the operating state. Now you can attach the handlebars – of course only once before the first use. The Hexagon Wrench helps after merging the power connections between the handlebars and the e-scooter.

Four screws are necessary to then start driving immediately. But before we get on the scooter, we would like to go into the operation of the e-scooter – by the way, the scooter stand on the left side catches our eye at this point; a stable hold to let the Kirin S1 Pro stand freely for a short time. Incidentally, the scooter is designed for a maximum of 120 kilograms.

Operation of the scooter – display, button & charging port

The 13.65 kilograms scooter is classified as a middleweight in the e-scooter class. Not particularly light, but not a heavyweight either! The scooter is easy to fold in one step and can therefore easily be loaded into the car in one movement or provide company on the train. In our test, we never had any problems when opening and folding. With a proper kick on the lever at the right angle of the scooter, the folding mechanism is released.

There is a practical display on the top of the handlebars, on which you can read the speed, the selected mode and the battery level. While the former and latter indications on the display are probably self-explanatory, we would like to explain the three modes of the KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro.

Here you can select the maximum speed and let the scooter accelerate to either 12, 20 or even 30 kilometers per hour. The throttle is connected to the right lever, the left lever activates the electronic brake. Important at this point: You can also decelerate with your foot on the rear wheel – practical and in many everyday situations a little more pleasant than the very aggressive electronic brake.

One button for everything – this is how you turn on the lights!

If you want to drive the KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro electric scooter, it must first be switched on. This is done with a longer press on the button on the handlebars. The e-scooter is switched off in the same way. If you drive at dusk or even at night, it is advisable to switch on the lights. This happens with a double press of the button – on and off again. Quite simply and quickly memorized. In this way, the front lamp and the red rear light are switched on.

Driving in everyday life – that’s how the Kirin S1 Pro drives

The Kirin S1 Pro from KUGOO is really a great candidate to do your rounds every day – that’s in advance! What we still have to complain about, you will find out in the following sections. But first the positive. The operation of the scooter is really very intuitive and easy, if you feel safe quickly, you can switch to the highest mode after a few meters. Unfortunately, you can’t expect a range of 30 kilometers here, but only about 21-22, as we found out in our test, but that’s still within a good range. The built-in battery system does a good job. In the last few meters, however, you notice that the performance drops sharply – normal for electric motors.

We like the steering and the handling in corners is also pleasant – rubberized grip surfaces and the anti-slip pad for the feet support stability. The only negative point that we found while driving: The 8 inch solid rubber tires! Air-filled tires are much more comfortable to drive here; especially when it comes to “terrain” or you want to drive on gravel paths or similar roads. All in all, however, the driving comfort on normal roads is always convincing – a very soft rolling and driving. The volume when driving is also very restrained. The shock absorber on the front tire cushions hard impacts a little, but we would have liked an even softer damper when the hard solid rubber tires yield so little.

15-25 kilometers range – and then?

The 36V 7.5Ah battery is really the right choice for the KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro. Together with the 350 watt motor you get a decent range with an acceptable weight, because the folding mechanism obviously also wants the Kirin S1 Pro to be mobile and portable. As soon as the scooter no longer has its full performance and needs to be charged, the supplied power supply unit is used – after about five hours the e-scooter was fully charged again in the test.

Conclusion on the KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro

Overall, we really like the KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro. After a short period of getting used to it, it is actually very comfortable to drive and you always feel safer. Nevertheless, it must be mentioned again at this point that the scooter is not street legal in Europe. On private property or company premises, however, you can drive the scooter and use it in every respect. The driving experience is typically very pleasant with e-scooters, only on roads with gravel or scree does the driving comfort decrease. For the really very good price of around $300, the KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro can be bought on Geekbuying, Aliexpress or Alibaba. I hope this review of KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro was helpful, I also wanted to leave a video review and you can also watch it, it will be located a little lower.

Pros of KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro:

  • Removable battery
  • Good quality
  • Easy to use
  • Collapsible
  • Pump in the saddle tube
  • Great brakes
  • The shift is very good

Cons of KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro:

  • A good basic concept is hampered by lame realization
  • No unassisted mode (unless you turn it off)
  • There is no bottom support, it is difficult to fold and remove the battery
  • Heavier
  • The range that the shift encompasses is not wide enough, so go up the hill with it
  • Expensive
  • If you fold it, it is impossible to grasp it meaningfully
  • The range doesn’t even come close to what the factory promised

Video Review of KUGOO Kirin S1 Pro:

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

2
Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

Today I wanted to talk about another interesting electric bike model, which is called Fafrees F20. It offers a hybrid between a city bike and a Fat Bike. The promise, that of being able to take you everywhere with the comfort of a U-shaped frame which facilitates the passage of the legs.

$929.99
$1,217.02
Geekbuying.com
$968.78
$1,383.97
Aliexpress

This type of electric bike, mixed by its uses, tends to become popular especially as the prices are rather low: less than 900€.

This is to be compared with what you can find on our shelves where the prices flirt with 1500€ without having superior characteristics.

BrandFafrees
ModelF20
TypeCity Fat Bike
Frame typeU-frame
Wheels20/3 inch wide
FoldingYes
Motor250W
Battery36V 15Ah
Autonomymax 120km
Removable BatteryYes
DerailleurShimano 7-speed
Fork suspensionYes
Frame suspensionsNo
Saddle suspension YesYes
BrakesMechanical disc
Saddle adjustable yesYes
Adjustable handlebar YesYes
RimsStick
MudguardsYes
Luggage rackYes
Front lightingYes
ReflectorRear lighting
LCDon-board computer
Pedal accelerationat the handle
Maximum rider weight150 kg
KickstandYes
ColorBlack, White and Red
EN15194 compliantYes after modification
Net weight27 Kg

VISUALLY STUNNING

The Fafrees F20 is, as its reference suggests, a model with 20-inch wheels. With this type of mount it is possible to create compact and folding adult bikes.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

This can be seen upon delivery because the bike is delivered in a small box. It is well protected for transport and almost ready for use.

It will be possible to transport this bike in a trunk for example for holidays.

Appearance level, difficult to describe this bike in a few words. It is a mini-bike shape bike in the sense that it has a U/V frame that allows the legs to pass effortlessly. Thanks to its wheels and its squat design, it approaches the aesthetic codes of a Fat Bike.

I find its shape more feminine than other 20 inch fat bikes, but it is a mixed model.

Here is a technical sheet of the Fafress F20 with in bold the remarkable points compared to competing products.

A GOOD LEVEL FINISH

The design of the F20 is serious with good quality welds and optimized cable routing.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

In terms of equipment, the bike is of a good standard.

On the handlebar side, the handles are comfortable and they do not turn on their own as sometimes.

The small on-board computer is easy to read. The mechanical doorbell falls well under the finger.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

On the right you have access to a 7-speed gear change system with its associated derailleur.

The set is signed by Shimano.

You also see a throttle trigger like you find on a scooter. I will come back later in the article on this controversial subject.

A MIXED ELECTRIC BIKE

The saddle but also the handlebars are adjustable in height to adapt to all morphologies as shown in the diagram below. The minimum size is incorrect. Even if you are 1.55 cm tall, this bike will suit you.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

The manufacturer announces a maximum cyclist load of 150 kg, therefore very good resistance.

The Fafress F20 is equipped with mudguards to avoid getting dirty and also a luggage rack with a long saddle. It’s a somewhat surprising choice because the opportunities to carry someone behind you are not legion. This can be used for a young child or a repair for an adult.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

In any case, this second saddle can be used to place a basket fixed by turnbuckles.

A SEMI-FAT BIKE

It is impossible not to mention first of all what makes this Fafress F20 electric bike special: its wheels. They are 3 inches wide with a structure that provides good grip on paths, sand or even snow. It also contributes to comfort on paved roads.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

The stick type rims reinforce the solid aspect of this bike.

To absorb shocks, the manufacturer uses suspensions on the front fork. It is a system that remains basic and non-lockable.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

The brakes are mechanical discs as conventional on this range. I had to tighten them up a bit.

The saddle is wide with a spring system which makes this electric bike comfortable.

A GOOD BATTERY

The saddle tilts so that the battery can be removed, either for anti-theft security or for recharging. The battery has an easily accessible anti-start/anti-theft key lock.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

This is the alluring aspect of the Fafrees F20. With 15Ah of power at 36V or 540 watts, the bike has a comfortable autonomy. It is theoretically indicated for up to 120 km in assisted pedaling mode according to the specifications. Count rather 80 km in real use which is very good for this type of electric bike. I do not yet have enough hindsight to indicate the maximum possible.

The on-board computer lets you know the speed, intermediate and total distance traveled, battery level. It is also used to select the operating mode.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

There are three levels that condition the strength of the assistance. It cuts at 15/19 or 25Km/h.

The bike can be used without assistance thanks to its Shimano block.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

At any time it is possible to use the trigger to accelerate or no longer have to pedal.

If this “pure electric” mode is authorized on balance bikes which are public hazards as well as on scooters, it is not on bicycles!! And yet this allows, among other things, people who have difficulty pedaling to take advantage of an ecological and pleasant means of transport. I hope that European regulations will change.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

Because in addition the Fafrees F20 is compatible with the standard en15194:

  • Its motor is 250 watts
  • Its assistance speed is limited to 25 km/h.

Only the trigger part is controversial. The solution ? Simply disconnect it when you are on public roads because a connector disconnects effortlessly.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

Despite this Fafress trigger does not hesitate to provide a certificate of conformity with the CE EN15194 standard.

If the front lighting, controlled via the on-board computer and powered by the battery, is of good quality, I do not congratulate Fafrees for its management of the rear lighting.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

The manufacturer equips the F20 bike with a simple reflector. This does not seem to be a search for economy because the wheels also have side deflectors.

A PLEASURE BIKE

I have had people of different genders and ages ride this bike with the same positive conclusion. The F20 is recognized as very comfortable.

Fafrees F20 Review: Hybrid Between City Bike and Fat Bike!

The electric assistance is balanced and it is pleasant to use on roads and paths. Its 250 watt motor does not allow you to go to areas that are too complicated.

Its battery should provide it with good autonomy. The under-saddle placement system is ergonomic when it comes to removing it. Also below you can watch a video review and for better understanding I advise you to use subtitles.

$929.99
$1,217.02
Geekbuying.com
$968.78
$1,383.97
Aliexpress

Video Review Fafrees F20

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

1
UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

Look at the consumer world around you. Whether it is for a car, a smartphone or a hair dryer we see that human beings make different choices. And that’s good because a uniform world would be very sad.

The electric scooter that I have the opportunity to test will surely create polarization in the reactions. Some will see it as a beautiful high-performance object that looks like them and will be immediately ready to invest, others will seek comparison with first-price models and will be less receptive given the price difference.

The UNAGI Model One E500 in question indeed targets a rather high-end market in terms of adult electric scooters.

The target price of the UNAGI Model One E500 is €990. I was surprised to see that this market is not such a narrow market niche. There is proof that there is a market with brands like Z, INMOTION, SPEEDWAY, SPEEDTROTT, INOKIM, E-TWOW.

UNAGI has been a player in the scooter market since early 2019, the date of their successful Kickstarter fundraising campaign. So there is now some feedback when the brand arrives in France.

Two UNAGI scooters exist in the catalog: the E250 and the E500. You can guess that the name is related to power. In the case of the E500 model of my test, it is 500W of total power at the rate of 250 W per wheel, the first specificity of the UNAGI.

A FUTURISTIC LOOK

Search for performance but also for design differences. Here is normally what should direct a consumer to the UNAGI E500 scooter rather than another. Doesn’t this remind you of the smartphone market?

Moreover, during my research for articles on UNAGI scooters, I read references to Apple or Tesla on several occasions. The two premium brands have been able to invent a style that mixes technology and minimalism. This type of comparison is rather flattering.

It all starts with quality packaging. The E500 is delivered in a well-protected box with overwrapping. The UNAGI Model One E500 scooter was delivered to me in an unusual metallic red color. It is also available in blue, sand or matte black.

Inside, you can find the scooter as well as a box containing handlebars, charger and screws. For obvious reasons, the handlebar cannot travel assembled to limit transport risks and bulk.

Unpacking the handlebars is a first opportunity to immediately capture the difference with any other model that I have been able to test in ranges half the price. Whether in terms of material, general look, buttons, … nothing is comparable.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

Unagi’s aesthetic choice is clearly to pursue a futuristic look. It is on the side of the handlebars that this manifests itself with an unusual T-shape. There are no visible wires here. This part is very light and it is not made of plastic. UNAGI uses magnesium twice as light as aluminum.

At the front, the lighting unit is integrated into the handlebar body. It uses a powerful double LED, 1.8W which illuminates about 10 meters.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

On the other side is the central on-board computer. The panel indicates the speed, the total mileage, the battery level as well as the selected speed on three levels.

The main button allows the commissioning or extinction but also the change of engine mode, single or double, via a double pressure close. An indicator appears on the screen in case of dual motor mode.

On the right is an acceleration trigger. The UNAGI scooter is therefore piloted by thumb.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

Above, the small button allows the selection of the driving mode.

In my tests:

  • The first driving mode called Eco limits the speed to 15 km/h.
  • The second propels between 20 km/h.
  • The third mode allows driving at the maximum legal speed of 25 km/h. This is a limit that the scooter can overcome with a little manipulation. Unbridled, the speed limit of the UNAGI ONE E500 is 32 km/h but it is no longer legal.

Mirroring the other side of the counter is another trigger. It manages an e-ABS electric brake. There is also the possibility of a mechanical brake via the use of the foot on the rear mudguard.

The small button above is a buzzer.

Mounting the handlebar on the stem is effortless and without forcing after simply connecting the wiring harness.

A BEAUTIFUL FINISH

The design of the UNAGI Model One E500 electric scooter is not revolutionary, but it is in the choice of materials and details that it stands out from entry-level products.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

The stem is made of carbon fiber which for the record is of the same nature as that of Elon Musk’s Space-X rockets. Something to give you a topic of conversation.

Its shape is extremely worked because it evolves from triangular at its top to circular at its base.

The folding system is innovative. The handlebar breaks in half by lowering a simple slider. This mechanism is extremely solid to the point where it does not require any attachment system on the rear part unlike most models on the market. The handlebars are like levitating.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

The scooter is quite easy to carry because it is well balanced and with these new generation materials, the manufacturer has managed to reduce the weight of the machine to only 12 Kg. It is little to consider the second wheel motor which alone weighs around 1.5 Kg.

The scooter measures 92 cm long by 42 cm wide and 38 cm high when folded.

A discreet kickstand is located on the side.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

The UNAGI Model One E500 combines aesthetics and functionality. The board is made from a single piece of aluminum. The “Unagi” branded coating on the top is made of silicone.

It is not very fragile and adheres well under the feet to limit the risk of falling.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

This same coating is placed above the rear mudguard for use as a mechanical brake.

I take this opportunity to indicate that the rear lighting is active as soon as the power is turned on and flashes when you brake via the trigger, not with the foot.

IT SWALLOWS THE RIBS UNAGI Model One E500

In the world of electric scooters, there is always the dilemma of comfort vs the risk of punctures. If the inflatable tires absorb shocks well, they have the risk of puncturing with great difficulty to change them.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

Unagi chose reliability by installing solid tires on each of the wheels. A reasonable choice to consider is that each wheel is here equipped with a motor which would have complicated the dismantling.

These are 7.5-inch solid tires called honeycomb. This special structure makes it possible to absorb road defects to a minimum. They do not require maintenance.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

You will have to be vigilant in case of rain, not for the scooter itself which is IP54 waterproof, but for the risk of skidding and longer braking distances.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

The first question that always comes up is that of knowing the “autonomy” or at least the number of km you can travel with a full charge. Unagi equips its One E500 with a 9000 mAh Lithium Ion battery. This is above what equips electric scooters like the Xiaomi M365 (7000 mAh) but less than most products in this price range.

It is therefore not necessary to expect records in terms of mileage. It will be up to 25 km in mode 1. In mode 2 count between 15 and 20 km and at full power it is likely that you will be around 12 km. In addition to the mode, like any scooter or electric bike, the number of km varies according to your weight, the roads traveled and even the outside temperature.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

The battery gauge on the 5-segment screen is progressive and appears just in its estimates, which is reassuring when you hit the road.

As indicated above, there is therefore the possibility of activating one or two motors. This happens at a standstill for safety reasons. It is also for safety that the scooter starts at the foot (“kick to start”).

It takes 4-5 hours for a full charge. The supplied CE charger outputs 33.6V/2Ah. The charging port is located at the back of the scooter, properly protected against water infiltration.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

The battery is protected against overvoltages and the risk of overheating during use. The battery packs are original Sony or premium quality. This battery is listed as replaceable just like the tires.

The UNAGI Model One E500 is a beautiful object whose first objective must not be forgotten, that of being able to transport you in the best possible way between two points.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

In maximum performance mode, the UNAGI Model One E500 is amazing, very responsive. It only takes a few seconds to get up to 25km/h if you wish.

The motors use the same type of neodymium magnet technology that TESLA mounts in its cars. Another anecdote that explains the quality and therefore price positioning in the end.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

The ONE E500 model can handle slopes of 15°, i.e. 9° more than the single-motor E250 model. I know this very important aspect for some of you who have it on your journeys and they can be reassured.

Comfort will really depend on the quality of the pavement. It is median because of the solid tires. These scooters are not off-road vehicles.

The machine brakes excellently on dry roads.

A PREMIUM SCOOTER

The UNAGI ONE E500 is without question a model that must be described as premium. The manufacturer has put a lot of care into the design of its product, both in terms of materials and general design.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

It is unlike any scooter on the market.

This would only be of relative interest if the UNAGI Model One E500 was not efficient, in particular because of its two wheels equipped with motors.

I would have liked even more modernity like a mobile application to lock the scooter and prevent its illegitimate use. A possibility of going beyond 25 Km without restrictions would also be a real plus compared to the competition.

UNAGI Model One E500 Review: Definitely Light Electric Scooter!

The UNAGI Model One E500 is sold through a network of specialist retailers in France. Its retail price is €990 on the official online store unagiscooters.com. It is guaranteed for one year with a 30-day risk-free trial period.

It is a beautiful machine to consider from all angles but will not be within the reach of the greatest number. In any case, I had the pleasure of making you discover it. Thank you for reading this review, I also suggest watching the video review below. You can use English subtitles.

Video Review of UNAGI Model One E500: