Magnum Melody E-Bike Review | Classical Meets Contemporary

The Magnum Melody also performed well in our Range Test, where we measured its real-world minimum and maximum range using the method explained in the graphic above. As shown, our testers traveled 35.7 miles in the highest assist level and 76.5 mph in the lowest.

It’s worth noting that we adhered to the 20 mph limit on our local paths; riders traveling at 28 mph with the bike set to Class 3 mode should expect fewer miles. We also used the more energy efficient torque-sensing mode; those using cadence sensing should also expect to expend battery charge faster.

Similar cruisers and commuters, including some of the best commuter-style e-bikes we’ve tested, averaged 33.9 and 64.3 miles using the same restrictions and methodology. In comparison, the Melody is on par with its competition when riding at full power. Its score was notably above average in Eco.

The reason for the Melody’s success is likely its above-average battery capacity; Magnum equipped the bike with a 720 watt-hour (Wh) battery, while its competitors averaged 670 Wh. This difference of only 50 Wh is not enormous, but its effect can be seen when breaking down all bikes’ energy efficiency.

By dividing a bike’s battery capacity by the number of miles it traveled, we can find the amount of energy it used per mile. The Melody and its competitors averaged the same 20.2 watt-hours per mile (Wh/mi) in their max-assist tests. Magnum’s e-bike was somewhat more energy efficient in its low-assist test, using 9.4 Wh/mi compared to 10.7 Wh/mi.

With the same energy consumption in its high-power test, the Melody differed from its competitors by a small margin. The much greater gap in all bikes’ low-power test results was likely a combination of lower consumption and a larger “gas tank.”

A rough real-world range of 36 to 77 miles makes the Magnum Melody suitable for occasional leisure rides and daily commuting. Assuming that riders use the same settings and speed limitations, we expect most riders should have at least a single round trip covered by a full charge even at the highest assist level.

Those using a lower/slower power level should be able to extend their charge and cover more rides and/or miles before needing to recharge.

Considering that Magnum advertises a range of up to 55 miles, we’re thrilled to have met and exceeded that mark!

The Melody ultimately proved capable, but not exceptionally speedy, in our Hill Test. Using the method above, our test rider (who tests each bike for consistency) recorded successful completion of the test using both the bike’s throttle and PAS.

On throttle power alone, Justin climbed the hill in 2:27 at an average of 12.3 mph. When pedaling in Turbo (the highest assist level with the bike set to Class 2 mode), he pedaled up the Devil’s Backbone faster, reaching the finish line in 2:16 at 13.3 mph.

Other cruisers and commuters averaged 2:08 and 2:05 in their throttle and pedal tests, respectively, making the Melody slightly behind the average in Turbo and noticeably slower in Eco.

These results coincide with my personal testing at our secondary location, Pilot Hill. There, the bike seemed to struggle somewhat on throttle (at the time of writing, I’m heavier than Justin by around 20 lbs), but pedaling felt much steadier and more comfortable.

The difference between the Melody’s test results and those of its competitors is obvious: Magnum’s e-bike is heavier and less powerful than average. While the Melody weighed just over 72 lbs and its motor produced 750W of peak power and 65 Nm of torque, our group of comparison models averaged 66 lbs with 991W of peak power and 112 Nm of torque.

The Melody’s 500W nominal rear-hub motor gives it a safe and approachable feel that we believe will appeal to new and/or aging riders, but it trades some uphill muscle for this controlled nature. Our testing proved that it is still capable of helping riders pedal up and over large hills, though most may need to add some leg power for the fastest travel.

A few final thoughts to keep in mind:

First, we generally recommend e-bikes based on their ability to summit steep hills rather than their speed. With this in mind, the Melody proved successful, and therefore, plenty effective.

Second, we performed our testing using the bike’s default torque-sensing mode. Our testing suggested that, depending on the rider, this may be slightly faster than the bike’s cadence-sensing mode. Cadence mode will, however, require less effort overall.

Third, those living in exceptionally hilly areas who are concerned about the Melody’s suitability for such terrain may want to consider another of Magnum’s newest models, called the Bliss. This e-bike shares much in common with the Melody, but uses a more powerful 750W motor that we expect would make climbing faster and easier.

The Melody is equipped with a capable and familiar hydraulic brake system: the HD-E3520 model from Tektro. Using these brakes, we used the method above to measure an average stopping distance of 19’9”. This final score is roughly 2.5 feet shorter than the cruiser/commuter average (at the time of writing) of 22’2”.

With well above average performance, we’re extremely pleased with the Melody’s results, though the reason for its success is not immediately obvious. As covered in previous sections, the bike is a few pounds heavier than average when compared to many similar models, and it also shares its brake system with some of those other e-bikes.

It is possible that the bike’s relatively wide 26×2.4” tires were to thank, as they provide a stable, grippy contact patch that helps to stop the bike. Additionally, many similar models have started to adopt knobbier SUV-style tires, which often have slightly less traction than smoother street tires like those of the Melody.

Interestingly, the bike didn’t seem quite as effective when braking under my general testing as it was during Griffin’s formal Brake Tests. The brakes performed as expected, though under hard braking, I noticed that the tires could skid relatively easily and for a moderate distance.

Still, the Melody generally felt confident and controlled when coming to a stop. With such excellent test results, we give the bike a well-earned two thumbs up.

As we have seen throughout the main test sections above, the Melody’s performance is impressive. Ride quality is another area where the bike stands out; in this section, we’ll examine its fit, ride comfort, motor engagement, handling, and user interface.

Starting with sizing, Magnum offers the bike in a single frame size for riders between 4’11” and 6’3”, though this is somewhat dependent on inseam measurements. At 5’11”, and with a roughly 31” inseam, I found the bike extremely comfortable and well-sized.

These days, e-bikes commonly offer a relatively wide range of adjustability, but the Melody goes further than most to ensure a good fit. Its seatpost offers around 8 inches of saddle height adjustment, which was plenty for finding comfort and proper leg extension. The bike’s adjustable stem, which includes an integrated color display, offers a range of angles for handlebar height and reach.

I enjoyed the bike’s slightly sporty, yet mostly upright riding position. The soft, plush cruiser-style spring saddle and 100mm suspension fork largely eliminated bumps, making the ride feel silky smooth. While I don’t usually prefer faux leather grips, the Melody’s ergonomic handlebars and grips were both comfortable and easy to hold on to.

In terms of handling, the Melody steered predictably, and its 26” wheels made it more comfortable than many similar bikes with larger wheels and tires. As expected, the bike’s step-thru frame exhibited some flex, but I’d say it felt sturdier than most. Additionally, being slightly on the heavier side, the Melody felt solid and planted while riding.

The bike’s pedal assist system engaged quickly and responsively regardless of whether I used torque or cadence-sensing modes. In torque mode, the bike seemed to prioritize smoothness over a natural feel, so while it definitely felt like an e-bike instead of an analog bike, it expertly blended steady power with sensitive adjustments to my pedaling.

I was extremely pleased by the Melody’s level of customization. The ability to switch between sensor modes and Classes in addition to adjusting speeds is not an uncommon feature, but it is extremely useful. These options also allow e-bikes to be more versatile, adapting to their rider’s preferences as they might change over time.

As I touched on in the intro, the bike’s user interface is relatively simple and easy to grasp. The stem-mounted display looks clean and presents essential information legibly. Additionally, the cockpit isn’t overloaded with modules and controls, so with the exception of the small control panel and throttle lever, it functions just like a “regular” bike.

Magnum equipped the Melody with useful essentials, such as LED lighting (including a brake light), an MIK-HD cargo rack, fenders, and a color display. Considering its price point, however, we’d appreciate some additional value to better compare with similar models. Features such as turn signals, security measures, and/or a fast charger are just a few ideas.

To be clear, the Melody delivers a lot of e-bike for the buck. Its overall ride quality is great, with a comfortable and easy ride, a stable and sturdy feel, and a low learning curve.

Having previously tested a handful of e-bike models from Magnum, I can confidently say that the Melody is a noticeable step forward for the brand. In addition to simply being the comfortable and well-put-together ride we’ve come to expect, it also boasts more refined looks, a more contemporary user interface, and a more impressive array of customization options than we’ve seen before from Magnum.

The Melody performed well in our testing, with particularly impressive performance in a few key areas. It demonstrated well-balanced programming and the ability to confidently reach its advertised speeds in our Speed Test. It showed the potential to match, and potentially exceed, the performance of similar bikes in our Range Test.

Its slowing and stopping ability in our Brake Test was similarly impressive. And, while it may not have been the fastest e-bike we’ve ridden in our Hill Test, it proved able to complete the challenge—and successful at making the job both enjoyable and significantly easier than it would have been without a motor.

We appreciated the straightforward nature of its user interface and the simplicity of its features. With that in mind, our only real point of critique was that we hoped to see a few relatively common extras to increase the Melody’s overall value.

Otherwise, this relaxed and comfortable cruiser/commuter hybrid offers an adaptable, smooth, and responsive ride to those seeking a sturdy, controlled, and approachable e-bike. Whether used for evening leisure rides or the morning trip to the office, we recommend the Melody for new and experienced riders alike.

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 Magnum Melody down in our comments section.