N+ Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1® Team Rallye Edition 750 Review

The Rallye’s dual-battery setup includes a 480 Wh power pack that is sealed in the bike’s down tube, as well as a smaller 240 Wh battery that makes up its seatpost. With a total of 720 Wh of capacity, N+ advertises that the bike has a maximum range of up to 70 miles; we tested this claim using the method explained in the graphic above.

As shown, our tests yielded a Race Mode result of 33.9 miles and a Comfort Mode result of 47.1 miles. Our testing was conducted at 20 mph per our local speed limits; those traveling at higher speeds should expect fewer miles from a charge. Similarly, we performed our Range Test on paved paths; those riding on dirt or gravel should also expect less range.

A group of similar commuter-style e-bikes we’ve tested averaged 38.2 and 73.1 miles in their testing. This shows that the Rallye fell somewhat behind in comparison to many of its peers and in relation to N+’s advertised range. In spite of this, we consider its results both practical and respectable for the bike’s category.

We have a few supplemental thoughts:

First, considering that the Rallye fared much better in relation to its competitors in its Race Mode test than it did in its Comfort Mode test, there is less reason to be concerned with conserving power (unless, of course, riders have an extended commute).

Second, there is no single clear reason why the Rallye’s Comfort Mode results were below average; many of the e-bikes we’ve tested and used for comparison have been equipped with similarly-sized batteries, similarly-powerful motors, and had similar weights.

We’ve tested a handful of other e-bikes with a Pinion gearbox, and in some cases, those bikes also had lower-than-expected results; it is possible that the transmission’s power draw is significant enough to reduce range.

Additionally, most of the commuter-style e-bikes we’ve tested used smoother and more efficient street tires instead of the knobbier, chunkier MTB-style tires the Rallye is equipped with. These tires offer excellent traction on loose terrain but have more rolling resistance on paved surfaces, which can reduce energy efficiency and range.

Those who want to extend their range might consider purchasing a second seatpost battery. While the saddle would need to be transferred between batteries, these swappable power sources should be able to add roughly 11-16 miles of additional range based on our testing.

This is an appropriate time to mention our first point of critique about the Rallye. Considering that many comparable e-bikes we’ve tested have used single batteries with similar (sometimes greater) capacity, we would prefer a similar setup here; having a removable, fully-integrated battery in the down tube would be more user friendly for charging and allow riders to customize their seatpost.

As it is, we appreciate that the Rallye’s 3A charger tops up both of the batteries without the need to swap ports. With a total of 15 amp-hours (Ah) of capacity, the charger can have the bike completely powered up in roughly 5 hours.

Considering that many of the commuters we’ve interacted with in the past have shared that their commutes are under 20 miles, the Rallye is clearly well-equipped to handle such distances. Overall, we feel the bike performed well in this test despite its results being somewhat lower than expected.

The hill-flattening power of e-bikes is one of their greatest draws; riders who are aging, recovering from a medical procedure, or in the process of getting into better shape can choose their level of effort when approaching difficult hills.

We tested the N+ Mercedes-AMG Rallye Edition’s climbing performance using the process described in the graphic above. Its results were intriguing; the bike powered to the finish line in Race Mode with one of the fastest times we’ve recorded from a commuter (1:59), but in a rare occurrence for a bike with a 750W motor, it was unable to complete the throttle portion of the test.

For reference, the average among similar commuter-style e-bikes we’ve tested (at the time of writing) is 2:16 on throttle power and 2:20 using their highest level of pedal assist.

N+ does not share the peak wattage or torque output of the Rallye’s motor, but as the bike’s pedal test results indicate, it is not lacking in ability. The bike’s weight is not outside the norm for a bike of its style, either, so it is no more difficult than average to move uphill.

Based on personal experience from general riding and from completing our Speed Test, I believe that the bike’s programming is the largest contributing factor to its incomplete throttle result. As mentioned previously, its throttle felt steady once it was up to speed, but it did lack some of the punch I expected based on its nominal power output.

To be clear, our test hill is fairly extreme in nature; I can attest that the bike’s throttle is powerful enough to summit small and moderately-sized hills with relative ease (at least for a rider of my size and weight). Those in the hilliest cities may need to put in some degree of legwork when approaching steep hills, but the average rider in areas with average hills should not have much difficulty.

The Rallye’s score in this test was an impressive 20’ 9”, which is significantly shorter/faster than average for a commuter; similar models, including the best commuter-style e-bikes, averaged 21’ 8”.

As I mentioned above, the Rallye’s weight is similar to the average commuter; it tipped the scales at 66.8 lbs, while similar bikes averaged 63.7 lbs. As such, it has only slightly more momentum, so it should require a similar force to bring to a stop.

With that in mind, the Rallye’s hydraulic disc brake system is a step above average, and is likely the greatest contributor to its shorter-than-average Brake Test result.

Its Tektro Auriga brakes pair 4-piston calipers with 203mm rotors; the calipers apply more surface area to the rotors than a 2-piston hydraulic brake system and the rotors are better able to disperse heat than the smaller and more common 180mm rotors.

The Rallye’s stronger than average braking performance was noticeable by feel as well as when looking at its test score; the bike stopped quickly and forcefully without feeling too aggressive, and modulating my speed when riding downhill was possible with relatively light pressure on the brake levers.

With both personal experience and an excellent test score to back it up, we can confidently say that the N+ Mercedes-AMG Rallye Edition is equipped with safe and extremely effective brakes.

Most folks can imagine the general feeling of riding a bike, but each style and model has its own unique characteristics; these are the aspects we do our best to convey when discussing ride quality. With its hybrid/SUV styling and integrated high-end technology, the N+ Mercedes-AMG Rallye Edition is even more of a departure from the norm!

N+ offers the Rallye in three frame sizes (S, M, L) that can accommodate riders from 5’1” to over 6’ tall. We tested the large frame, advertised to fit riders 6’ in height and above, so at 5’11”, I was technically just below its recommended range. Despite this, I found it quite enjoyable to ride; the Rallye blends comfortable geometry and trim with a performance-oriented feel.

One of the Rallye’s defining characteristics is its forward-leaning riding position, which is a result of its overall geometry and wide, low, 770mm handlebars. In contrast with many other commuters we’ve tested, which often feature more relaxed and upright positioning, the Rallye feels sportier and more like what we’d expect from a hardtail mountain bike.

This frame design, which incorporates an adjustable air suspension fork from Zoom with 80mm of travel, is just one element that lends the Rallye its high degree of versatility. When combined with the bike’s knobby Pirelli Scorpion MTB tires, it can conceivably be ridden on dirt roads, gravel paths, or even relatively smooth and flowy singletrack—well beyond the bounds of what most similar bikes that cross into the commuter category can handle.

In addition to riding on paved paths, I tested the bike on short sections of gravel, compacted dirt, and loose soil. In all cases, it steered precisely, felt sturdy, and maintained excellent traction. As one might expect from a bike that leans into the performance side of things, the bike’s handling was sharp, energetic, and relatively playful.

I appreciated that the Rallye included an air suspension fork from Zoom, which can be adjusted to account for the rider’s weight and comfort preferences. The suspension felt plush and robust, making the ride comfortable and relatively smooth, though I believe many riders would appreciate the ability to add a suspension seatpost.

Another point of critique that I have about the bike is its custom, single-piece stem/handlebar; while I liked the balance and control it provided, it offers no adjustability over handlebar height or reach. Considering the mounting method used for the large color display, I’m not sure the stem/bar could be swapped for more standard components.

Additionally, other custom components, such as the bike’s (admittedly cool-looking) quad-LED headlight, may be difficult to replace in the future. Otherwise, the Rallye’s custom nature is largely a strength; from both a visual and a practical standpoint, the bike is a unique blend of styles and technology.

The drivetrain is a standout; manual shifting is quick and crisp (if sometimes a bit noisy) due to its electronic nature. Riders can also choose from one of two semi-automatic shifting modes through the Pinion Smart.Shift app.

The first, called Start.Select, automatically downshifts to a chosen gear after a short delay upon coming to a stop. The second, Pre.Select, incorporates the function of the first mode, while also downshifting while coasting to match the rider’s desired cadence. Overall, both modes worked well, though finding the right settings took some trial and error.

Additionally, the bike includes a gorgeous 5.5” color display with simulated gauges that mimic those found on a car’s dashboard. On the left is a speedometer, while the right side features a watt-based power meter. It also shows ride data, including assist setting, charge level, etc. Users can also set up a 4-digit security pin for startup through the display’s settings menu.

Finally, the Rallye includes a Unit 1 Faro smart helmet. Aside from looking like something out of Tron, the helmet features Mips technology, a magnetic visor, and integrated lights on the front and rear.

Once paired with the display, it can display rear turn signals when activated using the bike’s control panel. The helmet includes sensors that can detect a crash; users can set an emergency contact within the Unit 1 app that can be notified automatically if the sensors are triggered. Riders can even customize the light patterns/colors through the app!

Considering the Rallye’s price point solidly between $7,000 and $8,000, we wouldn’t mind seeing fenders included; at the time of writing, both optional accessories can be added for around an additional $100.

Otherwise, the bike is well-equipped and well-deserving of its premium cost. Buyers should be aware, however, that there is an advertised 90-day lead time for production, as bikes are made to order. We’ve reached out to our contact to find out if the Rallye Edition can be purchased on-site at Mercedes dealers or if dealership purchases will still require the same lead time; we’ll update this review when we know more.

As its branding, premium pricing, and integrated technology might suggest, licensed e-bikes like the N+ Mercedes-AMG Rallye Edition aren’t made for the masses. Instead, the bike is designed to be an exclusive product for consumers seeking distinction and prestige.

Like a luxury sports car, a high level of expectation regarding its performance goes hand-in-hand with its cost and appearance. Our testing showed that the Rallye’s performance in some areas is on par with some of the best e-bikes of its style that we’ve tested, though it fell somewhat behind in a few other areas.

Starting with its speed capabilities and programming, the Rallye distributes power in a balanced fashion across its pedal assist settings, and can confidently reach 28 mph when pedaling, though its throttle was a bit more toned down than we anticipated. It wasn’t able to climb our relatively extreme test hill on throttle alone, but it pedaled up in nearly record time—and its throttle proved capable on more average hills.

Additionally, the Rallye’s high-power range test result was admirable, even if its low-assist test fell below average. The bike made up for it with a safe and powerful brake system that resulted in reliable stopping and shorter-than-average braking distances.

The Rallye also went above and beyond with its integrated and accompanying features, including a semi-automatic, low-maintenance drivetrain, a high-tech Bluetooth-enabled helmet, and a frame design outfitted with a suspension and tires that make it uncommonly capable in off-road environments.

Our primary points of critique concern the bike’s dual-battery system and the custom nature of some of its components. A single larger, removable, down-tube-integrated battery would be more user-friendly both for charging and customizing the bike, while adjusting fit and replacing parts may be difficult due to its single-piece stem/handlebar and unique headlight.

Still, the bike is undoubtedly a cool and highly appealing hybrid commuter. We recommend the N+ Mercedes-AMG Rallye for riders seeking a premium, fast, fun, and versatile e-bike with a head-turning design and upscale branding. Whether used for commuting, adventuring, leisure riding, or exercise, we expect riders will be impressed with what the bike brings to the table.

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 N+ Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1® Team Rallye Edition 750 down in our comments section.