Heybike Ranger 3.0 Pro Review | Can It Go The Distance?

We tested the Ranger 3.0 Pro’s range in two tests using the method explained above. Heybike advertises up to 90 miles of range from the bike’s 48V, 720 Wh battery. Our tests showed this estimate to be quite hopeful, though the Ranger’s results lined up much closer with those of many of its peers.

A group of similar folding e-bikes we tested previously, including the last-gen Heybike Ranger S, averaged a minimum range of 29.6 miles and a maximum range of 59.9 miles in our testing. The Ranger 3.0 Pro was slightly below average in both tests, differing by roughly 4 miles in its Turbo test and about 9 miles in its Eco test.

No clear single reason stood out as to why the Ranger fell somewhat below average in this test, so I believe its results may be due to a combination of factors, including its weight and motor output.

The Ranger 3.0 Pro weighs roughly 77 lbs and its motor can produce a maximum of 1200W of peak power, while the bikes we used for comparison, on average, weighed less and had less powerful motors (70 lbs and a peak of 996W). As such, the Ranger was at somewhat of a disadvantage; its motor could naturally use more power to start, while its higher weight required even more to get moving or climb hills.

It’s worth noting that the bike’s 720Wh battery was larger than average (663 Wh), but it seems that other factors canceled out the benefit of a relatively high-capacity power source.

Regardless of the cause, we can divide the bike’s battery capacity by its range to find the number of watt hours its motor used per mile. While the other bikes we used for comparison averaged a relatively efficient 11.1 and 22.4 Wh/mi in their low-power and max-PAS range tests, respectively, the Ranger 3.0 Pro was noticeably less efficient; it used 14.1 and 27.9 Wh/mi.

To be clear, the Ranger’s test results still make for a practical ride! Those willing to ride slower will clearly be able to get more distance from a single charge, but even the bike’s high-power test results show it should handle multiple round-trip commutes or leisure rides for most users.

Potential buyers should keep in mind that our testing was performed using the bike’s Class 2 settings, so those opening up the motor to Class 3 mode should expect fewer miles. When needing to recharge, however, the included 2-amp charger should refill the 15 amp-hour (Ah) battery in roughly 7.5 hours.

The Ranger 3.0 Pro proved to be a competent and capable climber in our Hill Test! We evaluated the bike using the method explained above. Its throttle result of 2:00 was slightly slower than a group of similar folding e-bikes, but its pedal time of 1:47 was noticeably faster than its competitors; the models used for comparison averaged 1:55 and 1:56.

Once again, weight and motor power are likely two factors that likely contributed the most to the Ranger’s performance, though I believe its programming also came into play. The bike’s peak motor output of 1200W and 80 Nm of torque is higher than average (996W and 69 Nm), which is particularly noticeable in its above-average pedal test.

Similarly, the Ranger’s 77-lb weight is above the 70-lb average. This seems to have held the bike back somewhat in the throttle test, though its pedal time would also likely have been faster had it weighed less.

As mentioned in the Speed Test section above, the Ranger’s throttle felt steady and strong without being too punchy. In my experience, it felt capable on hills, though it was noticeably slower than when I chose to pedal. The Ranger 3.0 required active pedaling when I did not use the throttle, so my pedaling felt engaged but not strenuous.

Considering that my personal experience matched the Ranger 3.0 Pro’s test scores, we can state that the bike is powerful enough to allow most users to throttle or pedal over most hills. Those who prefer the fastest experience may need to contribute some effort on the pedals, but should not expect to work up a sweat while doing so.

Considering that Heybike specifically advertises a high-quality and high-performance brakes system on the Ranger 3.0 Pro, I was especially curious to see how the bike would fare in our Brake Test.

We used the method above to determine its average stopping distance of 20’ 7”. A pool of similar models that included a couple of overperforming e-bikes averaged 19’ 4”, but with those models removed from our comparison group, the category average fell to 20′ 3”. As such, we can say that the Ranger’s braking performance was relatively average for its style.

Based on my personal experience, I’m surprised that its test score was not shorter.

Braking on the Ranger 3.0 Pro felt relatively sudden and intense, but in a way that felt confidence-inspiring and appropriate instead of unsafe. Even when cruising at Class 3 speeds (or even faster when riding downhill), the bike’s brake system modulated speed well without much fade—a direct result of their thicker-than-average 180×2.3mm rotors.

While the bike’s brakes are unbranded, the brake lever bodies resemble those made by Tektro. As such, it is possible that they are manufactured by one of the largest and most reputable brake brands, though we have no way to verify this.

Regardless, based on their feel and performance, we can safely and confidently say that the Ranger 3.0 Pro is equipped with powerful, effective brakes.

This ride quality section is primarily an attempt to describe how the Ranger 3.0 Pro feels to ride, though some other elements of its operation are also points of focus.

Starting with sizing, Heybike manufactures a single frame size with a telescoping stem and accommodating seatpost, allowing the bike to fit riders between 4’11” and 6’2”. My height of 5’11” places me near the top of the recommended height range; I found the bike generally comfortable, but there were a few aspects I think buyers should be aware of.

First, though I rode with the saddle at its maximum height (the seatpost offers 7.5” of adjustment), I was not able to reach full leg extension. As such, my pedaling wasn’t as efficient as it could have been, but I appreciate that the PAS was powerful and sensitive enough to deliver ample power without requiring much effort or strain.

As with many folding e-bikes, the Ranger 3.0’s reach is long, requiring my arms to be almost completely outstretched. The telescoping stem offers roughly 5.5” of adjustment in handlebar height, though the bike’s reach adjustment is limited to the rails on the saddle.

We’ve seen popular brands like Lectric adopt a zero-degree stem (its angle matches the bike’s head tube) for a more comfortable fit; we wouldn’t mind seeing Heybike and other brands adopt the same approach for the sake of ergonomics.

Otherwise, the bike’s mostly upright riding position felt comfortable, and I liked its saddle and grips. The ride was also kept smooth and comfortable by the full suspension and fat tires. It was great to see an adjustable air shock! Its stock pressure was somewhat stiff for my size and weight, but the setup allows riders to tailor its feel to their body and personal preferences.

The bike was expectedly nimble and quick in its handling; this is another common element of folding e-bikes with 20” wheels, relatively narrow handlebars, and telescoping stems. Many similar folding e-bikes have adopted smaller tires, but I appreciated that the Ranger’s 4-inch tires maximized riding and cornering stability (despite adding some weight).

I’ve discussed the motor’s engagement and feel in the Speed Test section, but I’ll reiterate that I enjoyed its power, responsiveness, and customization features. While I didn’t mind, I found the motor to be somewhat loud; it sounded more like a jet preparing for takeoff than I’m used to in its highest power level.

The Heybike app gives users control over the Ranger’s speed, acceleration force, responsiveness, throttle behavior, and the number of pedal assist settings. It’s also possible for the bike to reach speeds in excess of 30 mph when fully unlocked through both the Heybike app and display.

Speaking of the display, this is one of the most noticeable and impactful upgrades on this version of the Ranger. The full-color TFT display is well-organized and pretty to look at, as well as color-coded in each PAS level for ease of use. It also boasts a security feature that requires either a keycard or 4-digit PIN to be entered upon startup, though users turning the bike on through the app can bypass this.

As a folding e-bike, the Ranger 3.0 Pro generally succeeds, with relatively standard folding mechanisms and a tried-and-tested design. The redesigned, beefed-up frame and rear suspension increased its overall weight, however; potential buyers seeking a highly portable e-bike they plan to fold and move regularly may be turned off by the 77-lb weight.

The folding process itself is relatively straightforward, as are the bike’s folding mechanisms. Like many similar models, the Ranger has a central locking hinge built into the frame, along with folding pedals and a collapsible stem.

I noticed that the front brake line acted as sort of a buffer between the fork and chain stay when folded; this protected the frame but may have the potential to cause pinching. A rubber bumper added to the frame would likely present a better solution. Once folded, we measured the Ranger 3.0 Pro at roughly 35”L x 21.5”W x 32”H.

After previously reviewing the last-gen Ranger, I can confidently say that the Ranger 3.0 Pro is an upgrade in most areas. One of the biggest improvements over the previous model is the bike’s motor engagement and responsiveness; where the Ranger S’s motor felt somewhat delayed, the 3.0 Pro’s torque sensor ensures rapid and adaptive power delivery.

Another area where the Ranger 3.0 stands out is its comfort factor. The rear suspension adds weight, but it also makes for a much smoother and more enjoyable ride. The list of upgrades doesn’t stop there, however; nearly everything from the drivetrain and brakes to the user interface and overall aesthetic reflect a better-equipped and more thoughtfully assembled e-bike.

The Ranger 3.0 Pro scored generally well in all areas of our testing, with range, braking performance, and climbing ability that closely matches the results of many of its peers. It also demonstrated the ability to reach Class 2 and Class 3 speeds effectively with intuitive default programming and plenty of customization options for those with different preferences.

Our main areas of critique focused on the bike’s overall weight of over 75 lbs and the inability to adjust throttle and pedal-assisted speeds individually. The former makes the bike somewhat difficult to lift and carry, while the latter can result in the bike exceeding legal throttle limits in many locations.

Critique aside, the Ranger 3.0 Pro has many appealing features that would make it practical for leisure, daily commuting or errand running, and both on- and off-road adventuring. With app integration, a long list of solid specs, and a full suspension, it’s a sharp-looking and affordably-priced e-bike offering lots of bang for the buck.

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 Heybike Ranger 3.0 Pro down in our comments section.