Mokwheel Tarmac Review | Hit the Streets in Speed & Style

We tested the Mokwheel Tarmac’s range and the accuracy of its advertised 60-mile maximum using the method explained in the graphic above. As shown, our team was able to exceed its advertised range by a significant margin of over 15 miles!

As a caveat, the shared-use paths where we performed our test had a maximum speed limit of 20 mph, which we adhered to while riding in PAS 5. Be aware that riding at top speed will drain the battery’s charge faster than when traveling at a slower speed.

A group of similar commuter e-bikes we’ve tested recently averaged 36.4 and 69.1 miles in their range tests. As such, the Tarmac’s results were about average in the bike’s high power test and somewhat above average in its low power test.

Two main factors seemed to influence its performance in this test: the Tarmac’s battery capacity and overall motor efficiency.

At 720 watt-hours (Wh), the bike’s battery is slightly larger than the average of 700 Wh among bikes we used for comparison. This difference, although not substantial, likely helped extend its range.

In the Tarmac’s low assist test, its motor also used about one watt-hour per mile less than its peers. The bikes used for comparison average 10.1 Wh/mi, versus Mokwheel’s motor’s 9.3 Wh/mi. This difference, while relatively small, does add up over time—especially when combined with the bike’s slightly above-average battery capacity.

Considering that the Tarmac functions more like an e-bike with a cadence sensor at its lower power levels, and that cadence-based pedal assist systems are often less efficient than those with torque sensors, we’re impressed with its results in this test. Part of this efficiency, as mentioned above, is due to speed; increasing the speed limits of the lower PAS levels would likely reduce the bike’s efficiency.

Our test results showed that the Tarmac performed exceptionally well, keeping pace with its peers and, in some cases, outpacing them. Considering that many riders will likely use the bike’s mid-power PAS settings to ride faster, we expect most folks to fall somewhere between our results.

Even then, however, the Tarmac proved to be capable of covering multiple rides’ worth of miles before needing to be plugged in. When that time comes, the Tarmac ships with a 3-amp charger that should power up the battery from empty in about five hours.

With a 750W rear-hub motor, we expected that the Tarmac would have the power to handle challenging hills with ease. We tested its performance using the method described above and found that it did well, but that the story was somewhat more complex than we initially anticipated.

We recently switched our hill test location to the Devil’s Backbone, so we don’t have an enormous pool of similar bikes to compare the Tarmac’s results against. Those for whom we have data averaged 1:51 on throttle power and 1:59 when pedaling, making the Tarmac about 13 seconds slower than average and about 9 seconds faster than average, respectively.

I think those differences make sense when looking at the bike’s motor output in terms of torque and peak wattage.

Historically, a bike’s peak motor power in watts has seemed to influence its throttle results, while its torque correlates more with our pedal test. The Tarmac’s motor peaks at 920W, versus a higher average of 983W among similar commuter e-bikes we’ve tested. As such, its slower throttle time lines up.

The bike’s torque output of 75 Newton meters (Nm) is above, but much closer to, the average of 72.5 Nm, so its slightly faster pedal time also makes sense.

My personal experience with the Tarmac also lines up with Justin’s results. I took the bike to our secondary test hill near the office to gauge its climbing capabilities. When pedaling, it felt peppy and relatively speedy, but I noticed that it was noticeably slower when I relied solely on its throttle.

Our test scores and my personal experience demonstrate that this bike is more than capable of helping riders climb hills. With a relatively powerful motor, it provides most riders with the option to throttle or pedal when approaching large hills and relatively steep inclines.

Using the method explained above, we tested the stopping power of the Mokwheel Tarmac’s hydraulic disc brake system. The bike’s final score was an average stopping distance of 25’2”.

A group of similar commuters we’ve tested, including the best commuter e-bikes, stopped in an average of 21’11”, so the Tarmac’s result was over three feet longer than average. Based on our history and my experience testing the bike, I must admit that I was somewhat surprised to see such a significant difference between its score and the average of similar bikes.

Going by feel, I would say that the Tarmac performed better than its score would suggest. The brakes felt appropriate and functioned well during my testing. At the same time, the 25-foot mark is right around the point where we start recommending some changes, so let’s consider why and how its performance might have been affected.

A bike’s weight, brake system, and tires all contribute to its performance in this test.

The Tarmac is equipped with the Tektro TDK171 hydraulic brake system with 2-piston calipers and 180mm rotors. We’ve tested these brakes on a variety of other e-bikes, and in general, it has performed quite well.

Additionally, the Tarmac weighs roughly 67 lbs, including its battery, while similar models we used for comparison weighed approximately 65 lbs. As such, nothing is out of the ordinary regarding its specs.

The Tarmac’s tires were the bike’s only component that stood out as being somewhat out of the norm when compared to similar commuters; there’s a good chance that their knobby tread simply didn’t provide as much grip as we’re used to seeing on other bikes with smoother tread.

Personally, I like the Tarmac’s 29×2.35” CST Preston tires quite a bit! Compared to the smoother tires we often find on similar commuters, they give this bike more off-road trekking potential. As such, I’d hesitate to change that characteristic of the Tarmac.

With that in mind, I think I’d lean more towards recommending that Mokwheel increase the bike’s brake rotor size. On some other e-bikes, the TDK171 system was paired with a mix of 203mm and 180mm rotors (instead of 180mm rotors on both wheels, in the Tarmac’s case).

Increasing the rotor size would help dissipate heat faster and improve the bike’s overall braking performance, resulting in a more comparable outcome to similar models we’ve tested. Alternatively, potential customers who don’t plan to ride on unpaved paths or roads might consider swapping to a street tire to get better overall traction when braking.

While it’s nearly impossible to understand how a bike feels to ride without physically sitting on it, we do our best to explain the factors that influence the experience in this ride quality section.

Starting with geometry, sizing, and adjustability, the bike features a sporty frame that positions its rider in a forward-leaning posture typical of the commuter style. It is offered in two frame sizes: a Standard size for riders between 5’5” and 6’5” and a Large frame for those from 5’7” to 6’7”.

It is somewhat unusual in my experience for there to be so much overlap between frame sizes; a more typical breakdown of the height ranges might be more like 5’5” to 6’1” for the Standard frame and 5’11” to 6’7” for the Large.

Case in point: the Tarmac’s standover height is 31-32”, depending on the frame size, making the bike best-suited for those of average height and above. Reducing the Standard frame’s wheel diameter to 27.5” instead of 29” would likely help make the bike more approachable for shorter riders (this is a common wheel size on commuters, regardless).

At the time of writing, Mokwheel does not offer a step-thru version of the bike, so riders on the shorter side (or those who prefer easier mounting and dismounting) might need to consider another option; I’d recommend the Asphalt ST we reviewed previously, which has a recommended height range as low as 5’2”.

At 5’11”, I was very much in the middle of the Standard frame’s fit range. Its sizing felt both comfortable and appropriate, with a long seatpost and an adjustable stem that allowed me to adjust the bike’s feel. I achieved proper leg extension for efficient pedaling, a moderate reach that was neither too cramped nor stretched out, and a slightly more upright riding position for my personal comfort.

When I had my preferences set, the bike felt both sporty and relaxed. With some weight on the handlebars, steering and cornering felt controlled and predictable. Being somewhat more upright made long test rides (I covered the 37+ miles in our max PAS range test) comfortable and enjoyable.

I mentioned the tires previously in the Brake Test section above; these, in combination with the 80mm suspension fork, gave the Tarmac a confident feel when riding on relatively smooth dirt and gravel areas.

I’ve also discussed the feel of the pedal assist system at length, but to reiterate, the bike delivered enough power in all assist levels to make pedaling easy. At low levels, it required very little pedal pressure to get up to speed, but at higher levels, it seemed to respond more to changes in the amount of pressure I applied.

Overall, I think the Tarmac is generally well-equipped for its price. I like that it has integrated lights and turn signals, along with fenders and a cargo rack. The head-tube-integrated headlight, in particular, was interesting; it’s a great look that’s different from our usual experience with Mokwheel, and it reminded me of some e-bikes I’ve tested and enjoyed from a handful of other brands.

I also consider the removable display, which prevents the bike from being ridden under power when disconnected, to be a solid security feature. I think it would also be great to see a cafe wheel lock for a little extra physical theft deterrence, and I am not the biggest fan of the gel bumps on Mokwheel’s custom faux leather grips, but those are minor concerns.

As I referenced in the Speed Test section, the bike’s display menu offers a variety of customization options for the bike’s speed and acceleration. It also allows users to select between three and five pedal assist levels, choose whether the throttle is active, and if so, determine if it functions from a complete stop.

All in all, the bike was comfortable, it handled well, and it was fairly straightforward to operate. Additionally, while we did identify some downsides, it felt stable while riding, and it is relatively versatile in terms of where it can be ridden. This commuter isn’t limited to paved streets and paths alone!

While many commuter e-bikes on the market offer a relatively active and potentially demanding experience, I was happy to note that the Mokwheel Tarmac adopted a lower-effort approach suitable for aging riders or those seeking a bike with impactful levels of pedal assistance and a granular level of control over their speed.

The bike generally performed well in our series of standardized performance tests. We recommended some changes to its brake system to shorten its average stopping distance (a change that some consumers may also consider), but otherwise, it showed well-balanced programming through its pedal assist system, along with excellent range and good climbing power.

More than that, the user experience is highly customizable. Whether adjusting the individual speed limits of its five assist levels or tailoring the handlebar height to suit personal preferences, the Tarmac offers riders a wide range of options that influence how it feels to ride.

Our test riders found it to be comfortable, generally well-equipped, and capable for both on-road commuting and light off-road adventuring.

Our largest points of critique about the Tarmac relate to its sizing and speed. We encourage Mokwheel to ship the bike with its default throttle and PAS speeds set to match legal requirements. Additionally, potential buyers should be aware that the bike’s two frame sizes are best for those of average height or taller, though Mokwheel has other options suitable for shorter folks.

Otherwise, we’d expect the Tarmac to be a great commuter for those who want a bike that’s fun and easy to pedal, one that’s pretty customizable, and also one that’s capable of long rides without needing to be recharged very often.

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Mokwheel Tarmac down in our comments section.