GOTRAX Ranger 16 Review | A Safe & Manageable Mini Moto

Our Range Test answers the question of how far a bike can travel on a single charge. Given the Ranger 16’s moto-inspired design, we tested it using only throttle power, since its design is not the most conducive to pedaling. The bike traveled 13.3 miles with its 281-watt-hour (Wh) battery.

While other e-bikes averaged exactly 30 miles in their throttle-only range tests, the Ranger 16’s results were clearly well below this figure. With that in mind, comparing the Ranger 16 with other models is tough for a couple of reasons.

First, all other similar models we’ve tested have been powered by significantly larger batteries and more powerful motors. The Ranger 16’s 350W motor uses less energy than most other bikes, making its battery size more appropriate for its needs, but 281 Wh appears small when compared to the 678 Wh average of similar models in our database.

Additionally, the Ranger 16 differs significantly in price. At the time of writing, the bike is sold on GOTRAX’s website for $549, making it the most affordable moped-style e-bike we have reviewed. Even the standard, full-size GOTRAX Ranger, the next-most-affordable bike we also tested, sells for a much higher $799—other models only go up from there.

Furthermore, while many of these other models are full-size e-bikes meant for adults who may need to commute to work and run errands afterward, the Ranger 16 is a smaller kid-size e-bike with a focus on less-demanding leisure rides.

To be clear, the bike’s total payload capacity is 165 lbs, while I am around 210 lbs; my additional weight likely reduced its range in our testing. Younger riders who weigh less may be able to extend its range beyond my distance.

Ultimately, given its price point and intended audience, we feel that GOTRAX specced the bike adequately. Riders looking to cover long round trips may need to bring a charger and plug in once they arrive at their destination, but the Ranger 16’s modest battery size should accommodate most young users taking leisure rides with friends or cruising to the neighborhood hangout spot.

One area with room for improvement is the Ranger 16’s 1.5A charger. In our experience, faster 2A chargers have been standard for many years, and upgraded 3A and even 4A chargers have become more commonplace relatively recently. We understand that there must be some tradeoffs to achieve the bike’s remarkably low price, but a basic 2A charger would shorten charging times significantly.

Case in point: by the numbers, the included 1.5A charger should take roughly 5 hours and 15 minutes to fully charge the 7.8 amp-hour (Ah) battery when it is depleted. A standard 2A charger would charge the same battery in under 4 hours.

Our Hill Test is an area where the Ranger 16 fell somewhat behind the pack, though this was not unexpected given its modest 350W motor.

We tested it at our standard test location, the Devil’s Backbone (see the graphic above), using exclusively its throttle and its highest level of pedal assist in two separate trials. The bike was unable to complete its throttle test, though it was successful when our test rider pedaled in PAS 3. Justin’s trip up the hill clocked in at 3:48 with an average of 8.0 mph.

To date, we have only tested one e-bike equipped with a 350W hub motor capable of climbing our test hill on throttle power alone. With this in mind, the fact that the Ranger 16 didn’t have the muscle to complete this portion of the test is not only expected—it’s a feature, not a bug. GOTRAX clearly intended it to feel safe and controlled, though this does give it some inherent limitations.

In its pedal test, the Ranger 16’s result was decidedly slow, though again, this is to be expected. Other moped-style e-bikes we’ve tested averaged a time of 1:54, though these bikes had significantly more power across the board. Our comparison group averaged 1274W of peak power and 90 Nm of torque; while we don’t have the Ranger 16’s maximum output, we can expect both numbers to be far less.

In my experience, hills did present some obstacles for the bike, especially when throttling. I could make it up relatively small hills, albeit slowly, but for medium to large hills, pedal effort was required.

Case in point: at our secondary test location, Pilot Hill, throttle power again proved insufficient, but I was able to pedal to the top with an unhurried pace and a moderate level of effort. This showed me that the bike could handle some climbing, though it was most comfortable and enjoyable when cruising on relatively flat terrain.

Of course, there is one big factor to consider: both Justin and I exceed the Ranger 16’s total payload capacity. Riders who fit within its recommended weight limit may have an easier and more enjoyable experience when tackling hills—but given its 350W motor, I wouldn’t expect drastic changes.

Our Brake Test was an area that the Ranger 16 pleasantly surprised us. We brought it up to maximum speed (20 mph), applied the brakes as it crossed a set of traffic cones, then measured the distance it traveled before stopping. Its average across three test runs was a highly impressive 18’10”.

Similar moped-style e-bikes we’ve reviewed averaged a still-solid 19’8″, placing GOTRAX’s mini moto 10″ shorter in comparison. This was especially noteworthy because the Ranger 16 is equipped with mechanical disc brakes, instead of the more common hydraulic systems on other models—that also tend to perform better.

We attribute the Ranger 16’s great results to a few factors. First, as a bike weighing under 60 lbs, it is significantly easier to bring to a stop than its heavier cousins, which often exceed 80 lbs. Second, while its absence of suspension makes it somewhat less effective at softening bumps, its rigid frame/fork are more effective at transferring energy to the front wheel, making braking more efficient overall.

Additionally, while we’re not certain, it’s possible that the Ranger 16’s low center of gravity may also have given it an advantage.

By feel, the brakes have solid bite and offer good modulation. They’re also relatively quick, and are clearly effective at bringing the bike to a stop safely.

Still, there are a handful of downsides to its brake setup: in my experience, the levers have a relatively long pull requiring a fair amount of grip strength, and the brakes themselves can be a bit loud. None of these things are abnormal for mechanical brake systems, so I’m not including them as formal critiques, just things to be aware of.

In practice, mechanical brakes do have some advantages over hydraulic systems, including lower cost and less maintenance, which can certainly justify their use. With those things in mind, as well as the Ranger 16’s overall test score, we consider it to be specced safely and appropriately for both its speeds and price.

Ride quality is one of the more unique aspects of the Ranger 16—primarily due to its small size. As I’ve mentioned above, I exceed the bike’s maximum rider weight of 165 lbs by a good margin, but I found it comfortable, sturdily constructed, and a heck of a lot of fun to ride!

While the bike is of relatively short stature, I found it unexpectedly comfortable to ride. Sure, there’s somewhat of a cramped feel when pedaling, but even significantly larger moto-inspired e-bikes tend to share this aspect. Ultimately, I liken the feel of sitting on the bike to sitting on a staircase with your feet one or two steps below your bum.

As far as adjustability goes, the Ranger 16 is expectedly limited. Like most other e-bikes of this style, its padded bench-style seat is static, so there is no way to alter leg extension other than scooting forward or back on the saddle. The BMX-style handlebars, however, can be rotated toward or further away from the rider, thereby changing reach and overall comfort.

I already mentioned the absence of suspension; while this does inescapably make bumps more noticeable, I thought the bike’s ride was adequately smooth. Its saddle is thickly padded and able to absorb many bumps, and its 16×3″ tires also add a bit of cushion. You may still want to stand or lift yourself off the saddle when encountering big bumps, but if the road is relatively smooth, you should be in good shape.

In terms of handling, I found the Ranger 16 relatively nimble, but also somewhat twitchy. Named for its small-diameter wheels, the bike is uncommonly lightweight and extremely maneuverable, but its 640mm handlebars felt somewhat narrow. It’s possible, however, that this could be less of a concern for riders who are smaller than I.

GOTRAX equipped the bike well for its price. It features basics like the thumb throttle and handlebar-mounted LED display, but it also includes useful extras such as integrated lights, fenders, and a chain guard. There are even brake lights—which aren’t even a guarantee on e-bikes 4x the Ranger 16’s price, proving its solid value.

The overall pedal experience is extremely relaxed and low-effort. A cadence sensor ensures that the motor delivers power as long as the cranks are turning, so it’s easy to move the bike with a casual approach and only light pressure on the pedals.

Overall, the bike is remarkably straightforward and easy to operate, which makes it ideal for new riders. The simple LED display shows only the most relevant ride data, and makes it easy to select one of three pedal assist levels. Riders can either engage the thumb throttle or pedal the single-speed drivetrain without worrying about gear changes. Personally, I’d prefer a half-twist throttle to the thumb lever for comfort on longer rides, but the current setup is definitely not a dealbreaker.

One final aspect of the Ranger 16’s ride quality to mention is the fact that, since the bike sits low, rider visibility is something to be aware of. When riding around vehicular traffic, I noticed that drivers seemed to have a more difficult time seeing me than when riding a taller bike. Standing certainly helped, but I might recommend getting a brightly colored helmet and avoiding a dark wardrobe to maximize visibility.

The bottom line is that the Ranger 16 is exactly what it needs to be: an enjoyable, easy to use e-bike that’s fun and well put together.

While youth-oriented e-bikes are becoming more popular, the GOTRAX Ranger 16 is still a relatively uncommon take on a model in the moto/moped-style category. Its small size, modest payload capacity, and conservative motor make it appropriate for young riders, while its overall comfort and cool looks are likely to make it attractive, too.

Perhaps most importantly, the bike’s low price, manageable acceleration, and solid performance will surely make it appealing to parents. While I am not personally a parent, I can appreciate the concern that is inherent to being in that role. After consulting with other members of our team who do have kids, we collectively feel that the Ranger 16 does it right.

In terms of measurable performance, the bike generally met, and in some cases, exceeded our expectations. Its Speed Test result showed intuitive programming and controlled speeds, while its Range Test mileage reflected usable, if not particularly enormous potential. Its Hill Test revealed one of the bike’s most significant limitations, though its Brake Test score rounded out our testing with safe, reliable stopping power.

We identified only a couple of areas with room for improvement, though neither is glaring. The ability for parents to limit the bike’s maximum speed below 20 mph would be ideal to ensure safety and peace of mind, while a faster charger would increase the bike’s (already great) value and shorten charging times.

Otherwise, there’s a lot to love about this bike—even for a fully grown adult! The Ranger 16 is fun, playful, easy to grasp, and generally enjoyable to ride. Of course, GOTRAX also offers the larger, more powerful, and more expensive (but still value-packed) full-size Ranger for those who want additional capability, but the Ranger 16 offers a calmer, more controlled, and even more affordable option in a fun-size package.

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 GOTRAX Ranger 16 down in our comments section.