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John S. Bozick

E-Bike Writer & Reviewer

Originally from a small town in northeastern Ohio, John was eventually drawn elsewhere in the pursuit of self-actualization. What began as a creative background slowly shifted into the technical; John’s early interest in art led him to learn design, fabrication, and manufacturing techniques while attending the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He applied his creative, mechanical, and critical thinking skills in various industries including fine art, orthotics, furniture and interior design, construction, etc. before arriving in his current position at Electric Bike Report. Bikes have been present to varying degrees throughout John’s life; as a teenager, he spent much of his free time on a Diamondback BMX, and during/following the pandemic, a secondhand Specialized trail bike offered a way to blow off steam. Writing has been similarly ubiquitous; a natural skill with the written word developed through formal education into a source of pride and passion. At Electric Bike Report, John uses his analytical mind, technical writing skills, and dry sense of humor to share the best e-bikes with the world!

Get to Know John S. Bozick

Certifications

  • Bachelor of Science, Entertainment Design

Favorite Style of E-Bike

City, All-Terrain, Hybrid Path

Favorite E-Bikes Reviewed

Ride1UP Revv 1

Current Bikes You Ride/Own

Juiced Bikes RipCurrent S

Favorite New E-bike Tested

Magnum Vertex

Hobbies

Cooking, Hiking, Camping, Gaming, and Traveling

Some links may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these.

John S. Bozick

Retrospec Beaumont Rev+ Review | Classic Comfort & Style

This personality-infused retro-style city cruiser offers solid performance for daily commuting or leisure.

Retrospec Beaumont Rev+ Review

When we tested the budget-friendly but relatively barebones Beaumont Rev 2 from Retrospec, we found it to be a generally well-put-together cruiser/commuter e-bike. It had the winning combination of a simple yet effective component package, a comfortable ride, and an affordable price—but it also lacked some desirable features.

The Beamont Rev+ addresses these limitations by offering a few big upgrades: a more powerful torque-sensing motor, a larger and sleeker integrated battery, hydraulic disc brakes, and a color display. The soul of the bike is the same, however; it maintains a similar appearance (with cool retro colors), and includes many commuter-friendly accessories.

A couple of big things stood out to me on my first short test ride. First was the bike’s responsive, analog-like feel; its four assist levels delivered pedal assistance proportional to my effort. In its lowest setting, Eco, power felt light but meaningful, while Turbo mode (the highest assist level) gave it a livelier and more rewarding feel.

Another highlight was the bike’s easy operation. It’s not uncommon for e-bikes to be overloaded with tech and features; things like a mobile app and tons of customization options can make the user experience more robust, but also greatly increase the learning curve. Straightforward models like the Beaumont Rev+ are user-friendly and easy to learn.

Going by first impressions, it seemed just as well-suited for new riders or those who haven’t ridden a bike in years as it did for experienced users. Plenty of similar models on the market tout user-friendliness and comfort, however, so what separates the Beaumont Rev+ from its competitors?

Take a closer look at the bike’s real-world performance below to find out!

[Read more…] about Retrospec Beaumont Rev+ Review | Classic Comfort & Style

Tenways Launches New EU Models, Upway Partners with BikeInsure, Another Helmet Recall | TWR Ep 75

Plus Shimano’s $11.5M Settlement with the CPSC, Velotric Tempo vs. Ride1Up Roadster V3, Air Travel with E-Bikes, & More!





In this week’s e-bike news, we take a look at new models from Tenways. We also cover details on Upway’s e-bike subscription plan, which now includes baked-in insurance. Finally, another important helmet recall has been announced.

Tenways recently released two new models for the European market: a refreshed and enhanced version of the CGO009 city e-bike and a souped up special edition of the AGO X trekking model.

Upway has partnered with BikeInsure to offer theft and damage protection to members of its Flex subscription program. Will this move help the company reach its ambitious expansion goal before 2030?

ProRider has recalled over 9,000 bike helmets due to serious safety concerns. The recall affects a variety of models, so be sure to check the full story below to see if your helmet is included! You can also find out more information by watching or listening to our weekly podcast via the links above.

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This Week’s E-Bike News Headlines

Tenways Launches New CGO009 and AGO X Models in Europe

Tenways Launches New CGO009 and AGO X Models in Europe

Image Source: Tenways

The new CGO009, pictured above, is a lightweight city cruiser with a design reminiscent of a Van Moof. It boasts a handful of upgrades over the original model of the bike, including a redesigned frame, a frame-mounted running light, and a stem-mounted headlight. It also features a handlebar-mounted color display, seatpost-mounted rear lights, and an electronic bell.

It also features a high-tech Smart Connect Module that pairs with the Tenways app. With an affordable subscription fee, this module enables theft detection, contactless unlocking, location tracking via Find My Bike, motion detection, and movement notifications.

Other specs included 250W custom motor with 45 Nm torque, a removable 374 Wh battery, hydraulic disc brakes, and a Gates Carbon belt drive. It also features a boost button for short bursts of extra power when climbing hills or passing other cyclists.

The Special Edition AGO X trekking e-bike boasts a sleek, redesigned frame with internally routed cables. It also comes equipped with a custom 250W mid-drive with 80 Nm torque, a 560 Wh battery, a 10-speed Shimano CUES drivetrain, and a stem-integrated TFT display.

It has a few additional upgrades over the standard version of the bike, including an adjustable stem, an MIK HD cargo rack, a stem-mounted headlight, and a built-in rear light. It also features a slightly lower weight of 28.2 lbs, versus the 29 kg of the standard model.

Both the new CGO009 and the Special Edition AGO X are priced at €2.199.

Our Take:
Put simply, these e-bikes look great. Based on our previous experiences with Tenways’ e-bikes, we’ve been excited to see the brand’s launch announcements. It’s clear that the company is focusing more on the European market with these models, but we hope to see US versions offered here in the future.

Tech such as the CGO009’s onboard Smart Module, enabling security and location tracking, is becoming more common—and we think that’s a good thing. Not only do such features offer protection on a costly investment, they also make the experience of owning and using a bike feel more robust and high-tech.

It’s no secret that we’ve been huge fans of the AGO X since its debut. This new version looks more contemporary, offers greater range potential, and includes more functional features. Both bikes seem to mark a step forward for Tenways, and we look forward to seeing what the brand brings to the US market next.

Upway Partners with BikeInsure to Cover Lease-to-Own Program

Upway Flex Ramblas

Image Source: Upway

Upway, an international retailer of refurbished e-bikes, has partnered with BikeInsure to protect consumers in its Flex e-bike subscription program. This lease-to-own program allows customers to rent new or refurbished e-bikes, and now includes the e-bike itself, theft and damage insurance coverage, a maintenance plan, and a bike lock.

According to Maxime Ranson, the Head of U.S. at Upway, the goal of this partnership with BikeInsure is to reduce barriers to entry for potential e-bike riders. He explained that, “By integrating BikeInsure into our e-bike subscription offering, we’re making it easier and more affordable for riders across the United States to experience e-bikes with confidence.”

Buzzy Cohn, the CEO of BikeInsure, said, “Through this partnership, Upway Flex customers gain access to an e-bike subscription that includes BikeInsure coverage, offering a compelling alternative to traditional full-price purchases or financing options.”

According to a BicycleRetailer article, Upway has refurbished and sold over 100,000 e-bikes from over 200 brands. It has the goal of refurbishing and selling over a million bikes annually by 2030. In addition to sales and the lease-to-own Flex program, Upway also offers maintenance and financing services to its customers.

BikeInsure, on the other hand, is the Official Bike Insurance Partner of Canyon Bicycles, Tern, Pivot, the International Mountain Biking Association, and other groups. They’re able to provide insurance within all 50 states and Washington DC.

Our Take:
E-bikes can be a significant investment, even on a rental basis, so it’s encouraging to see Upway expand the appeal of its lease-to-own program by adding BikeInsure’s insurance coverage to the Flex program. Many e-bikes include security and theft prevention features baked-in, but these aren’t yet universal, so it makes sense to provide customers with protection.

Would you be more likely to purchase an e-bike directly or participate in a structured lease-to-own program? Let us know in the comments section below!

ProRider Recalls Over 9.5k Adult and Toddler Bicycle Helmets

ProRider Recalls Over 9.5k Adult and Toddler Bicycle Helmets

Image Source: ProRider

The 9,546 recalled helmets involve multiple models, including ProRider’s Economy Bicycle Helmet, Bike Helmet with Turn Ring, Bike Helmet Black Foam, BMX Helmet, and Toddler Bike Helmet. They are being recalled for violating safety standards related to shock absorption and dissipation as well as positional stability, certification, and labeling requirements.

The affected helmets were manufactured in China from April 2022 through December 2022 and come in black, blue, green, red, and purple. According to the CPSC, they were “distributed by Wisconsin Bike Federation, Kiwanis Club, Foster Love nationwide, and sold online at ProRider.com from June 2022 through May 2023 for between $5 and $18.”

If you have one of these helmets, stop using it, destroy it by cutting off the straps, and send photos of the destroyed helmet to [email protected] for a full refund.

You can also check out the recall page on the CPSC’s website or contact ProRider by phone at 800-642-3123.

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You Asked, We Answered. Questions Covered In The Weekly Recharge

  • Can e-bikes like the Lectric XP 4 be checked as luggage on airplanes?
  • Of the two e-bike brands currently planning a relaunch, Juiced and Rad Power, which company do we think will resonate more with riders?
  • Is the Velotric Tempo a better buy than the Ride1Up Roadster V3?
  • How do the Ride1Up Vorsa and Vorsa FT differ?
  • What is the best term for a non-electric bike when compared with an e-bike?
  • Is the Aventon Current EXP overpriced, or worth its premium price tag?

E-Bike Deals Found This Week

  • Aventon’s Sale
    • Pace 4 – sporty city cruiser with customization & security – $200 off, down to $1,599
  • Specialized’s Sale
    • Turbo Vado 4.0 ST – precise, natural-feeling commuter – $750 off, down to $3,249
  • Retrospec’s Sale
    • Roo Rev – responsive, short-tail utility e-bike – $400 off, down to $1,500

Make sure to tune in to the full episode to see the e-bike trail system highlight and rider of the week! Want to be featured in future episodes? Comment on any YouTube video or page of the website, or send to [email protected].

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Magnum Melody E-Bike Review | Classical Meets Contemporary

Like a catchy song, the Magnum Melody is fun, easily enjoyed by just about anyone, and quick to get stuck in your head.

Magnum Melody E-Bike Review

Cruiser / commuter hybrid e-bikes are nothing new, but in my experience, they exist on a spectrum. On one end are models that lean more into their cruiser aspects, perhaps offering a relaxed and casual vibe along with a large battery for extended range. On the other are sportier, speedier e-bikes, often with an extra dash of softness and support.

Each bike of this style strikes its own balance between the extremes, blending practically and comfort. Based on my first test ride, I can say that the Magnum Melody is one of the e-bikes most evenly split between the cruiser and commuter categories that I’ve reviewed.

Not only is it able to fit a wide range of riders, thanks to its 26-inch wheels, low standover height, and adjustable stem—the Melody is also remarkably comfortable. The stem, swept-back handlebars, and ergonomic grips promote an upright, strain-free posture. The suspension fork and wide, cruiser-style spring saddle keep the ride soft and smooth.

On top of that, the Melody is well-equipped for daily use without being overcomplicated. In contrast with many e-bikes I’ve tested that were overloaded with controls or needed to be paired with mobile apps, Magnum kept this one simple. It’s a bike with a helpful motor, a respectably-sized battery, and a display—and not much more beyond the essentials.

My first impressions were that the Melody was comfortable, easy to pedal, generally well put together—and, of course, impressively sharp-looking. Initial opinions don’t always pan out, however. So did my up-front takeaways hold up throughout our standardized testing and review process? See my full review below to find out!

[Read more…] about Magnum Melody E-Bike Review | Classical Meets Contemporary

A Fitness E-Bike That Tracks Your Heart Rate? Velotric Tempo Review – Fully Tested

A lightweight, affordable, and highly customizable urban fitness e-bike that comes loaded with tech.

Velotric Tempo Review

Some e-bikes do their best to mimic the look and feel of analog bicycles, offering smooth, subtle, and responsive pedal assist through a minimal user interface. In many cases, they’re tough to distinguish from their unpowered cousins—except, of course, that their motors elevate speeds and climbing performance to superhuman (or pro athlete) levels.

Others e-bikes take the Swiss Army Knife approach, with loads of features, controls, modules, settings, and points of adjustment. These models lean into their powered, electronic nature, existing as multifunctional tools with robust interfaces to enhance the lives and riding experiences of their users.

As a fully-loaded, fitness-focused e-bike with more ride tuning and customization options than you can shake a stick at, the Velotric Tempo attempts to occupy a balanced middle ground.

Many of these features are elements we’ve come to expect from Velotric, including the company’s SensorSwap function, which gives riders options for an active ride using a torque sensor or a chill, low-effort experience based on cadence sensor input. Some newer features from the brand are quick Class selection and personalized motor tuning.

The Tempo offers one additional feature not found on many other Velotric e-bikes: Pulse Mode. Once connected to the included heart rate monitor, this function automatically adjusts power output to keep you within your desired heart rate zone while riding.

We tested all of the bike’s features, its modestly-powered pedal-assist system (PAS), and its real-world speed, range, hill climbing, and braking performance during our review process. See below for a deep dive into our thoughts and experiences, as we help you decide if the Velotric Tempo is the right e-bike for you!

[Read more…] about A Fitness E-Bike That Tracks Your Heart Rate? Velotric Tempo Review – Fully Tested

Tenways Wayfarer Review | The Fairest Cruiser of Them All?

This mid-weight cruiser/commuter hybrid prioritizes comfort, ease, and great performance, making it ideal for daily use.

Tenways Wayfarer Review

Tenways has commanded our attention for years with its refined, sleek-looking city, urban, and SUV-style e-bikes. In our experience, the brand’s products generally feature great component packages, reliable performance, and clean, contemporary designs. On top of that, their pedal assist systems have been consistently dialed-in and precise.

There’s just one characteristic of Tenways’ e-bikes that makes them a tough sell to some riders here in the US—its models are limited to 20 mph and do not come equipped with a throttle.

At least, not until now.

The Wayfarer marks a step in a new direction for Tenways. It’s equipped with a lively yet natural-feeling 500W rear-hub motor—the most powerful we’ve seen on the brand’s e-bikes to date. Additionally, the Wayfarer features a thumb-activated throttle and the ability to reach 28 mph, putting it in line with many similar models on the market.

The throttle and Class 3 speed capability can mean a great deal to riders who commute daily by e-bike. While the former allows riders an easy way to get rolling at an intersection or take a break from pedaling, the latter delivers users to their destination faster and safer by allowing them to better keep up with traffic.

Our hope was that the Wayfarer would combine improved functionality with the classic Tenways characteristics we’ve come to appreciate about the brand. See our full review below to find out how the bike fared in our standardized tests and whether it lived up to our expectations! Was it really the fairest cruiser/commuter hybrid of them all?

[Read more…] about Tenways Wayfarer Review | The Fairest Cruiser of Them All?

Urtopia Carbon Fold 2 Review | Striking the Ideal Balance?

Some lightweight folding e-bikes can feel too stripped down, but the Carbon Fold 2 blends great performance, robust functionality, and a light, easily portable design.

Urtopia Carbon Fold 2 Review

The world of folding e-bikes is often one of extremes. Many models in the European market feature remarkably lightweight frames with ultra-compact folding designs. These bikes prioritize simplicity and portability, but might be somewhat lacking in features for riders in the US.

Many folding e-bikes in the US market, on the other hand, are exactly the opposite. With large batteries, powerful motors, and an abundance of modules, buttons, and levers, these models offer speed, long-range capability, and a long list of features. They’re often much more functional than European bikes, but also more difficult to fold, carry, and transport.

What should a rider looking for a balanced blend of portability and functionality do?

The answer to this conundrum might just be the Urtopia Carbon Fold 2. As its name hints at, the bike uses extremely lightweight yet sturdy carbon fiber construction; our test bike weighed just 36.8 lbs. It’s also designed to fold to a compact, manageable package for those with limited storage space or who plan to regularly roll their ride on cramped public transit.

It also offers more than most models in its weight/size range, sporting a torque-sensing 250W motor, a 245 Wh seatpost battery, an 8-speed drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes. It also includes fenders, a throttle, a color display, an automatically-adjusting pedal assist mode, integrated lighting, and optional dual battery capability.

On paper, the Carbon Fold 2 looks like an ideal folding e-bike for urban riders and apartment dwellers who don’t want to sacrifice compactness for capability (or vice versa). But will its real-world performance prove it to be a winner or a folding flop? Continue reading below to learn more!

[Read more…] about Urtopia Carbon Fold 2 Review | Striking the Ideal Balance?

Tenways Applies for HKSE Listing, Walmart Helmet Recall, China Adds Traceability Requirement | TWR Ep 73

Plus the Stowe Bike Trunk, Pecron Power Supply, Mid-Drive vs Hub Motors, Belt vs Chain Maintenance, & More!





The beginning of March brings a variety of stories in the world of e-bike news.

First, a familiar brand has petitioned to be listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKSE). Will Tenways get more funding for expansion if approved?

Next, Todson and the CPSC have announced a recall on over 40,000 bike helmets due to safety concerns. The helmets do not comply with mandatory safety standards and can fail to protect riders in the event of a crash.

Finally, China is now requiring e-bikes and some components to be traceable. This move is an effort to make products harder to counterfeit and easier to identify.

Keep scrolling to read more on these stories, or check out our video and audio podcasts above!

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This Week’s E-Bike News Headlines

Tenways May Soon Go Public on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange

Tenways CGO600 Pro-C

The Amsterdam-headquartered e-bike company filed for a main board listing on the HKSE on Feb 27th. Chinese Investment bank GF Securities acted as a sponsor for this submittal, but the company itself is backed by other investors. These include Tencent, Alibaba, and Hillhouse Ventures, which is Tenways’ current largest external investor.

The brand, which was founded in 2021, achieved profitability in the first three quarters of 2025.

Sales Data from the market research company Frost & Sullivan suggests that Tenways was the fastest growing brand in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg (the Benelux region) from 2022 to 2024. The company sold more than 50,000 units of its CGO800S dutch city cruiser within four years after its launch. Tenways has also won Red Dot and German Design Awards

Tenways’ revenue in the first three quarters of 2024 was 54 million euros, and it was valued at $25.1 million dollars in January of the same year. Its adjusted net profit in the first three quarters of 2025 was 1.24 million euros.

Our Take:
Our first experience testing Tenways’ e-bikes came in 2023 with the belt-driven CGO600 Pro. Since then, we have been consistently impressed by the brand’s design aesthetic, responsive pedal assist systems, and overall quality.

If the company successfully goes public and gets more investors and capital, it could go a long way toward helping Tenways expand into new markets and develop new products. We can’t wait to see what the future brings for the brand!

Over 40,000 Todson Helmets Recalled due to Safety Concerns

concord bike helmet instacart

Image Source: Instacart

The recalled helmets were sold for around $30 at Walmart (both in-store and online) from Jan-Sept 2025. According to the CPSC, they do not comply with mandatory retention system and positional stability requirements. As such, they may not stay on the rider’s head during a crash, which could result in injury or death. So far, no incidents or injuries have been reported.

The helmets are called 360 Degree Rechargeable Light-Up Bike Helmets. According to the CPSC, they “were sold in size large (L), fitting a head circumference of about 22.8 to 24 inches. The helmets have a black exterior with a built-in LED lighting system, black straps, black buckle, and have a black plastic knob at the back of the helmet for adjusting the fit. “Concord” is printed on the back of the helmet.”

Todson’s website lists all lot numbers as being affected. If you own one of the affected helmets, stop using it immediately and destroy it by cutting off the straps. Then, you can contact Todson for a full refund after sending photos of the destroyed helmet to [email protected]

Note that the helmet contains a lithium ion battery, which shouldn’t be thrown in the trash or recycling—contact your local household hazardous waste center for disposal instructions.

China Now Requires E-Bikes & Some Components to Be Traceable

ccc sticker

Image Source: Cisema

The China Automobile Certification Center Company, Ltd. (CCAP), recently released a statement saying that all e-bikes and their batteries, chargers, and helmets must now display a China Compulsory Certification (CCC) certification mark, along with a unique QR code.

The CCC is a regulatory body similar to our Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL) or Europe’s Conformité Européenne (CE). These marks, which ensure compliance to certification and testing standards, can be printed on or molded into a product’s exterior.

The implementation of this requirement allows regulators to scan e-bikes and components to track their certification history. In theory, this would link to its documentation, its manufacturer, and possibly even more information related to its production, including the batch number.

It appears that this is China’s effort to reduce counterfeit products both by making them harder to reproduce and also easier to identify. It could also allow for more targeted recalls and ensure that products like lithium-ion batteries are manufactured to established safety standards.

The addition of CCC mark/QR code requirements will naturally require more complexity to the process of making and selling products. According to MPR China Certification, “Certified organizations are required to ensure one-to-one correspondence between certificates and QR codes, establish a mark usage management system, and maintain proper records to guarantee traceability and regulatory compliance under the CCC framework.”

Products that are newly certified need to meet these requirements immediately (as of March 1st, 2026), while those with existing certifications have a year to meet the new standards (March 1st, 2027).

Our Take:
The implementation of a stamp requirement mirrors UL and CE requirements on many products in the US and EU, giving consumers confidence in the safety and reliability of their purchases. Considering that counterfeit products can be unsafe, we support any measures that serve to make e-bikes and their components safer and more difficult to fake.

Gear Highlight

PECRON E1000LFP

Image Source: PECRON

The PECRON E1000LFP Portable Power Station features a 1024 Wh Lithium Iron Phosphate battery with a lifespan of 3500 charge cycles or more. It weighs roughly 29 lbs and measures around 15×9.5×10 inches. Pecron offers up to a 3-year warranty, and prices the E1000LFP at around $370.

  • Up to 1800W of load capacity
  • AC and DC outputs, including:
    • 5 standard AC outlets
    • 2 USB-A ports
    • 2 USB-C ports
    • 1 20-amp XT60 port
    • 1 10-amp cigar port
    • 1 5-amp DC 5525 port
  • Includes intelligent BMS software to manage battery temperature
  • Can be controlled remotely via Bluetooth or Wifi
  • Compatible with solar charging (2-2.5 hours), car charging (14 hours), etc
  • Can be fast charged with up to 1000W, getting to 80% in one hour
  • A standard AC wall outlet charges it in 1.3 hours
  • Can also serve as a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) for computer networking devices, security cameras, etc. during power outages
  • Includes AC, solar, and cigarette lighter charging cables
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You Asked, We Answered. Questions Covered In The Weekly Recharge

  • Should e-bikes be banned from multi-use paths?
  • How do maintenance requirements vary between belt and chain drives?
  • Why does the Mokwheel Flint Pro feature a non-adjustable, downward-angled headlight?
  • What are 700c tires equivalent to?
  • How do mid-drives and rear-hub motors differ when climbing hills?
  • Why do moto-style e-bikes lack adjustability?

E-Bike Deals Found This Week

  • Velotric’s Sale
    • Breeze 1 – lightweight cruiser/commuter – $150 off, down to $1,649
      • Includes fenders and a cargo rack
    • Summit 1 – rear-hub trail bike/eMTB-style commuter – $200 off, down to $1,799
      • Also includes fenders and rack
  • Mokwheel’s Spring Sale
    • Obsidian HS – $1,999
      • Full-suspension fat tire all-terrain e-bike
    • Asphalt ST – $1,199
      • Peppy, responsive, and comfortable city cruiser

Make sure to tune in to the full episode to see the e-bike trail system highlight and rider of the week! Want to be featured in future episodes? Comment on any YouTube video or page of the website, or send to [email protected].

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AIMA Big Sur 2.0 Review | Big, Burly, and Buckets of Fun

This cruiser-influenced fat-tire e-bike offers an easy, comfortable, highly customizable ride and great performance across the board.

AIMA Big Sur 2.0 Review

When testing and reviewing every e-bike, there are certain expectations I have up front, which largely depend on the category it fits into. I expect beach cruisers to have retro styling, relaxed handling, and an extremely comfortable ride. Commuter-style e-bikes should be ergonomic, well-equipped for daily use, and loaded with high-capacity batteries.

Generally speaking, fat tire e-bikes like the AIMA Big Sur 2.0 are powerful, plush, stable, and smooth—and that’s exactly what I found when hopping on the bike for the first time. It felt sturdy, planted, controlled, and comfortable, making it well-suited for casual cruises and intrepid adventures.

The bike surprised me, though.

In short, the Big Sur 2.0 is among the most customizable fat tire e-bikes I’ve ridden. Users can adjust the speed and power of each assist level through the display or the Bafang Go app. Additionally, it offers both torque and cadence-sensing modes for either an active or relaxed pedal experience. However you prefer to ride, you can make this bike your own.

On top of that, it’s simply a well-equipped bike. It sports an enormous, semi-integrated 960 Wh battery, a responsive and smooth 750W Bafang motor, and a powerful Tektro hydraulic brake system. It also features integrated lights, turn signals, and an MIK-HD cargo rack that can be outfitted with locking storage bags or even a child seat.

With all the expected baseline specs and features of a well-put-together fat tire e-bike, and a few extra surprises that help to set it apart from the pack, my hopes were high that AIMA had knocked this one out of the park. We put the bike through our standardized Speed, Brake, Range, and Hill tests to find out how well it compared to its competitors.

The full review below covers our findings!

[Read more…] about AIMA Big Sur 2.0 Review | Big, Burly, and Buckets of Fun

Heybike Venus Review | A Veritably Lovely City Cruiser

The Venus is sleek, comfortable, and approachable, offering excellent value for riders who want more than the basics without spending an arm and a leg.

Heybike Venus Review

E-bikes in the city cruiser category are popular for a variety of reasons. First, their upright riding positions feel comfortable and relaxed, keeping your wrists, neck, and back free from strain. Second, their light-to-mid-weight frames allow for nimble handling and easy portability. Third, bikes of this style are often lively and fun without being overpowered.

In my experience, the complexity of a city cruiser can vary greatly. Some are extremely simple and feature-light, making for budget-friendly but sparsely-equipped e-bikes. Others on the opposite end of the spectrum can be costly, overloaded with features and functions, and relatively difficult to learn and operate.

Based on my first test ride, the Heybike Venus strikes a great balance between these extremes.

On one hand, the Venus includes coveted features such as Bluetooth connectivity and a useful mobile app, along with a peppy 750W motor, integrated turn signals, and hydraulic disc brakes. For its price of around $1,500, this means that it provides solid value while still sitting firmly on the affordable side.

On the other hand, it’s not overcomplicated with too many settings, buttons, or customization options. Its default programming is practical, its motor provides smooth and helpful power for easy pedaling, and its feature package doesn’t extend too far beyond the basics.

In short, my first thoughts about the Heybike Venus were that it was comfortable, approachable, and generally well-equipped, which is exactly what I’d hoped for. But did its performance in our standardized testing hold up to that initial impression? See our full review below for test scores, comparisons with similar models, and a final verdict!

[Read more…] about Heybike Venus Review | A Veritably Lovely City Cruiser

GOTRAX Ranger Review | Undeniably Cool and Cost-Friendly

This moto-style e-bike offers a fun and comfortable ride, solid performance, and great looks—all without breaking the bank.

GOTRAX Ranger Review

As the late, great Bob Dylan once sang, the times they are a-changin’.

It wasn’t long ago that those seeking a moped or moto-style e-bike would have had to shell out many thousands of dollars to get a cool ride. Most bikes of this style that we’ve reviewed still sell for a pretty penny, and some high-end models on the market often go for more than I spent on my first car—but they’re no longer the only options.

With a price of around $900 (at the time of writing), the GOTRAX Ranger is a budget-friendly moto-style e-bike that brings a balanced mixture of comfort, safety, and fun to the table.

To be clear, it makes a few trades to reach such an affordable price point; the 500W rear-hub motor and 499 Wh battery are modest in their respective power and capacity when compared to those on many more expensive models.

Based on my first ride, however, I can say that the brand’s cost savings measures are fair. Whether throttling or pedaling the bike, I had fun cruising at practical, yet safe, speeds; the former mode of operation is limited to 20 mph, while the latter can reach 25 mph. I also had plenty of charge remaining after completing my usual, moderately long test circuit.

The Ranger offered a comfortable and smooth ride, a useful but not overwhelming feature package, and a cool-looking moto-inspired design. I appreciated its straightforward nature, low learning curve, and controlled feel.

But first impressions only go so far; our standardized testing process is designed to measure an e-bike’s real-world performance so it can be compared with the results from similar models. See our full review below to find out how the Ranger scored with respect to its competition in our Speed, Brake, Range, and Hill Tests!

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