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Mike East

E-Bike Writer & Reviewer

Mike East is more than just an e-bike writer and reviewer; he's a seasoned adventurer with a rich history in cycling that traces back to his childhood. His cycling journey kicked off with an impressive feat at age 11: completing the 7-day, 400-mile Bike Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) in 1991. This early triumph was not just a milestone but a prelude to a lifetime of cycling passion, a passion he now shares with his children. Initially skeptical, Mike's perspective on e-bikes transformed completely once he experienced their benefits firsthand. He's now a fervent advocate, recognizing that e-bikes do much more than just provide fun; they extend ride times, enhance endurance even for traditional cyclists, bring families together, and reintroduce many to the joys of biking after years away. Mike's particular affection for eMTBs, mopeds, and fat tire e-bikes mirrors his diverse riding tastes. His reviews are celebrated for their thoroughness, insight, and hands-on advice. He aids both novices and experienced riders in making well-informed decisions, drawing from his extensive background and personal experience in the world of cycling.

Get to Know Mike East

Favorite Style of E-Bike

eMTB, Moped and Fat Tire

Favorite E-Bikes Reviewed

QuietKat Lynx, Mokwheel Basalt and the Yadea Trooper 01

Current Bikes You Ride/Own

Specialized Turbo Tero X 4.0, Mokwheel Basalt, Specialized Stumpjumper FS and a Trek Roscoe 8

Favorite New E-bike Tested

Yadea Trooper 01

Hobbies

Away from the cycling world, Mike is a family man who treasures time spent with loved ones. In addition to his passion for astrophotography, Mike is an avid outdoor enthusiast, often found hiking rugged trails, camping under the stars, or exploring the natural wonders of the wilderness. Whether navigating through dense forests or the baron red rock landscapes of Utah, Mike's outdoor escapades reflect his deep appreciation for the environment and his desire for constant exploration. These experiences not only provide him with a refreshing contrast to the technological world of e-bikes but also enrich his perspective, allowing him to bring a unique and grounded approach to his e-bike reviews.

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

Mike East

Euphree Stellar Falcon Review | Level Up Your Commutes

Comfort is king, and innovative tech leads the charge on this commuter.

Euphree Stellar Falcon Review 2024

When I first got my hands on the Euphree Stellar Falcon, it was clear that e-bikes are evolving rapidly, much like the car industry. Each new model comes out with better fuel efficiency, more customizations, and designs that turn heads. In this market, brands are either keeping up with innovation or getting left behind.

Riding the Stellar Falcon for over 100 miles in southern Utah’s 100-degree heat, it became apparent that Euphree isn’t coasting on past successes, they’re pushing hard to make their own mark in the cutthroat direct-to-consumer (DTC) e-bike market. With features like programmable strobe lighting for commuter safety, customizable LCD display themes, and the option to choose between torque and cadence sensors, Euphree is making big moves, and we’re here for it.

The paint jobs rival new cars, and the 27.5 x 2.8 Schwalbe Hans Dampf tires offer the benefits of fat tires without the extra weight and bulk. Euphree is clearly working to become a legitimate name in the cycling industry. Riding the Stellar Falcon, I could feel the culmination of Euphree’s steady progress and innovation. From the agile 2021 City Robin to the comfort-focused 2022 version, and now the adaptive 2023 City Robin X+, each model builds on the last, integrating user feedback and improved tech.

The latest Stellar Falcon isn’t just competing; it’s closing in on the bigger DTC players, proving that Euphree is a brand to watch. See for yourself what we mean in our testing below.

[Read more…] about Euphree Stellar Falcon Review | Level Up Your Commutes

Saris 6-Bike Tailgate Pad Review | Haul More, Worry Less

Saris 6-Bike Tailgate Pad Review

Between morning rides before work and coaching my kids’ NICA rides, I spend more time than my back would like hoisting bikes into the bed of my truck. Over the years (and 4 or 5 tailgate pads later), I’ve become all too familiar with what a good tailgate and not-so-good tailgate pad has to offer.

Hauling multiple bikes in your truck without them toppling over, scratching each other, or causing a tangled mess is a real struggle. Finding the perfect tailgate pad that fits your truck and can securely carry up to six bikes without damage seems almost unheard of.

Ever wonder what happens when you walk into a bike shop and grab any ol’ tailgate pad without doing any research? You might end up with a tailgate pad on a full-size truck that was probably made for a mid-size. Ask me how I know.

Picture a fat guy in a little coat (RIP Chris Farley).

Sure, he’s wearing a coat, but the sleeves are too short, and if he sneezes, some seams might split. Does it bother me? Yes, every day. Don’t be like me.

Determined not to make that mistake again, I was pumped to see the Saris 6-Bike Tailgate Pad come across my desk for testing.

I was ready to make a comeback, so I took on the challenge of the Saris 6-Bike Tailgate Pad to see if it lived up to the hype or fell short.

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Saris 6 Bike Tailgate Pad

The G-hooks are a nice touch and faster to hook and unhook when you need it.

Saris 6 Bike Tailgate Pad

The coverage on my ¾ ton truck is really good and installation is a breeze.

Saris 6 Bike Tailgate Pad

Two storage pouches are integrated into the pad’s bedside and are a nice place to store your gloves, gear, or whatever else you want to stuff in them.

Saris 6 Bike Tailgate Pad

Shockingly, 6 bikes did fit in the back of my truck with no frame-on-frame violence.

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Installation – A Breeze Or A Battle?

Right out of the box, the Saris 6-Bike Tailgate Pad looked well-thought-out. The padding feels substantial, and the straps and G-hooks seem sturdy.

Installing it on my Ram 2500 was straightforward, taking about 15 minutes from start to finish. The instructions are clear, but I’ve never been one to read them. It leads to four-letter words flying around and general frustration—just ask my wife.

If you’ve never installed a bike tailgate pad on your truck, you’re likely not aware of how hard it is trying to fit fat fingers with a thin nylon strap through the tiny crack between the tailgate and the truck bed—the struggle is real.

So, I was thankful to see this pad include a handy tool to feed the straps through the tailgate crack, a feature that should be standard on all pads. The fit was great, and there were no issues during setup.

But the real test is loading it up.

Saris 6 Bike Tailgate Pad

As you can see, with 6 bikes on the pad, you’re not seeing anything out of a backup camera.

Saris 6 Bike Tailgate Pad

The G-hook frame straps are long and even fit around the big e-bike frames.

Saris 6 Bike Tailgate Pad

While it may look crowded, each bike was in its own designated spot, and no forks were harmed in this review.

Saris 6 Bike Tailgate Pad

With 6 bikes on the rack, one tire did not have enough coverage from the pad. This was eliminated as soon as we reduced the number to 5 bikes.

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Capacity Test – Can It Really Hold 6 Bikes Safely?

Marketing hype often oversells products, but I was determined to see if the Saris could support its full 6-bike claim. Impressively, all six bikes fit without pedals getting tangled in spokes or frames rubbing against each other.

However, a small issue arose: when loaded with six bikes, the outermost bike’s tire extended beyond the protected area of the pad, leaning against the truck’s paint.

While not ideal, it’s a minor issue, considering six bikes are more than most trucks can even carry in terms of passengers.

Fitment Considerations

If you want to fit 6 bikes safely, the Saris 6-Bike Tailgate Pad requires 59 inches of clearance between the bed’s wheel wells. For reference, my Ram 2500’s bed is around 66 inches.

Common trucks like the F-150 are about 51 inches, and the Toyota Tacoma is even narrower, at 44 inches.

Why am I spouting off truck bed dimensions? Well, because it plays a big role in what this (or any) tailgate pad can truly fit.

Most trucks can’t accommodate six bikes without some interference, making the Saris a solid choice for larger trucks. However, it could certainly work for any truck, with the understanding that you won’t fit six (safely).

All that was a long-winded way of saying that this pad can only accommodate 6 bikes as advertised if you have the bed space dimensions to support it.

What I Liked (and Didn’t Like)

The installation was easy and straightforward, especially with the handy strap tool Saris included. The fitment was perfect for my truck, with no ugly ripples or folds. A welcomed change from my current tailgate pad.

The G-hooks are a nice touch. You can quickly secure or remove the bikes without needing to try to ‘un-loop’ another nylon fastener.

The two included storage compartments are a practical touch. I found them to be a nice place to put gloves, dirty socks (not judging), pumps, tools, etc.

While I do appreciate the foldable protective flap for the truck’s backup camera, when loaded with 6 bikes, you don’t see much, if anything at all. But with 3-4 or even 5 bikes, it’s a great way to still see where you’re going when backing up without losing bike protection.

Final Attack

Overall, the Saris 6-Bike Tailgate Pad has proven it can carry more bikes than most trucks typically hold. It fits my ¾ ton truck, is easy to install, and secures my bikes effectively.

If you’re tired of wrestling with ill-fitting pads and want something reliable, the Saris 6-Bike Tailgate Pad is worth considering.

This time, I can confidently say I’ve made the right choice.

No more fat guy in a little coat for me—just a well-fitted, reliable tailgate pad up to the challenge of your choosing. Now, all that’s left is convincing my boss it should stay on my truck.

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RadRunner 3 Plus Vs Specialized Globe Haul ST | Which Wins?

Find out which utility e-bike better handles groceries, kids, and your dollar!

Specialized Globe Haul ST vs RadRunner 3 Comparison
Like the Swiss Army Knife, the modern utility e-bike is designed to be the only bike you’ll ever need. Utility bikes are made to handle all your chores when it seems like you don’t have enough well, hands. Whether that task is grabbing groceries, commuting, hauling kids to school or even loading all your gear for your next big adventure. These bikes combine practicality with power, making them a favorite among commuters, families, and weekend warriors alike.

Today, I’m comparing two popular utility bikes: the Specialized Globe Haul ST and the Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 3 Plus. Both of these bikes are designed to tackle whatever life throws at them. The Globe Haul ST and the RadRunner 3 both offer strong motors, impressive cargo capacities, and solid range, making them ideal for anyone needing a reliable utility bike.

Through our testing and the 200+ miles I’ve ridden on each bike, I’ve grown to appreciate both. While I do have a personal favorite, I often find myself recommending the other more frequently. So, let’s dive into the specs, features, and real-world testing data of these two utility e-bikes to see how I came to this conclusion.

Specialized Globe Haul ST

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Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 3

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[Read more…] about RadRunner 3 Plus Vs Specialized Globe Haul ST | Which Wins?

HeyBike Hero Review | You Haven’t Seen A Frame Like This

Blazing-fast e-bike with only a 6 lb carbon frame, pushing the envelope of innovation and some promised improvements.

HeyBike HERO Review 2024
Testing the Heybike Hero has been quite the adventure, and it shows just how far e-bike design has come in 2024. The first thing that caught my eye was its 6.2 lb carbon fiber frame, something we certainly do not see often in the e-bike world.

After logging 100 miles on both smooth roads and off-road trails, I got a feel for what the Hero actually offers. The lightweight frame did make it relatively easier to handle, which is a big plus. However, the bike’s presence is still very much felt on day-to-day rides, largely due to its big tires and hefty components. The motor packs a punch, delivering a powerful ride, though it does have a distinctive motor ‘whine’ that adds a bit of character, whether you like it or not.

One aspect of the Hero that stands out is its speed. I hit 32 mph, which is close to its top speed of 35 mph. The HERO combines this impressive speed with some cool new design elements. With a few tweaks to improve comfort and reduce motor noise, the Heybike Hero could become a go-to for those looking to explore a bit deeper and ride a bit faster.

It’s worth noting that the Heybike Hero we tested was a pre-production demo model. Heybike has informed us that several areas we critiqued have been addressed in the production model, and we’ll mention those improvements as we come across them in the review.

[Read more…] about HeyBike Hero Review | You Haven’t Seen A Frame Like This

iGo Core Extreme 3.1 EZ Review | Sand, Sleet, Snow? No Problem

A Canadian-born e-bike designed to withstand the harshest climates, yet be simple to ride.

iGo Core Extreme 3.1 EZ Review
In a landscape filled with fat tire e-bikes that all seemingly promise to ‘go anywhere’, it can be a challenge for consumers to sift through sales pitches and find the right bike. However, the iGo Core Extreme 3.1 EZ steps up to the challenge, making it a promising contender for tackling a wide range of terrain or managing your daily errands.

iGo, a Canadian-based brand, specifically designed this fat-tire e-bike to ‘withstand the full force and diversity of the Canadian climate’. This could not be more apparent by simply glancing at the 26×4.5 Kenda Juggernaut tires. And while the red rock canyons of southern Utah are a world away from the Canadian backcountry, these tires, combined with a beefy build, made the bike feel more like a Jeep than an e-bike as it traversed our rocky trials.

It faced off-road trails head-on, handling bumps and rough terrain as one would expect from a bike marketed for offroad capability.

However, the romance faded a little on the pavement. The large tires are a bit noisy, and the nearly 80-pound weight might prove challenging for some, especially when lifting it onto a rack or carrying it upstairs.

Despite this, the iGo Core Extreme 3.1 EZ shines on off-road trails, providing a sense of freedom and readiness for adventure. It’s a solid choice for those who prioritize backcountry capability, and can accept a couple of quirks as part of the package.

*iGO has shared an exclusive discount code with the Electric Bike Report audience. Use code: GOELECTRIC100 at checkout for $100 off your e-bike purchase.

[Read more…] about iGo Core Extreme 3.1 EZ Review | Sand, Sleet, Snow? No Problem

Ride1Up Turris Review: Affordable Versatility for All

Simply solid, and packed with value: The Ride1Up Turris is a comfortable, great-looking, and versatile e-bike that works for almost any rider.

Ride1Up Turris Review
When I first got my hands on the Ride1Up Turris, I was eager to see if it could defy the skepticism that often comes with budget-friendly e-bikes. Could it balance affordability with quality? To find out, I put it through its paces on various rides—from city streets to light trails.

The Turris is marketed as a versatile e-bike, capable of handling a range of terrains and tasks, much like an SUV. During city rides, practical features like fenders kept me dry, and integrated lights increased visibility during early morning and late evening rides. On trails, the knobby tires and hydraulic disc brakes provided reliable handling, while the 100mm front suspension fork smoothed out bumps along my route.

Quality components like the Shimano drivetrain and Kenda Boost tires stood out, not only performing well but also offering the reliability of trusted brands. The bike’s eye-catching colors added a stylish touch, and all of this came at an impressive MSRP of just $1095.

So, does the Turris truly balance affordability with performance across all of our testing? Through my rides, I discovered both its strengths and some quirks. This review will shine a light on those real-world insights, pinpointing where the Turris excels and where it has room for improvement.

[Read more…] about Ride1Up Turris Review: Affordable Versatility for All

Himiway D5 Zebra Review | A BIG E-Bike With BIG Test Results!

A BIG fat tire e-bike that has big features and big capability with a few tradeoffs!

Himiway D5 Zebra Review 2024
In America, we have a bit of a love affair with all things big—from our favorite 3rd row SUVs to sprawling suburban McMansions, everything is just bigger here. Himiway shares this affection for all things big, as seen in past releases like the massive full-suspension D7 Pro and the D5 Rhino. When I first laid eyes on the new Himiway D5 Zebra, I could immediately tell that this fat tire e-bike fits right into this landscape, boasting big features with a not-so-big price tag starting at just $1,499.

During my week with the D5 Zebra, I was eager to see how it would perform. I was espcially eager to see how it performs vs the Himiway Cobro Pro, the companies more expensive mid drive option, and the QuietKat Ranger, which is very similar spec-wise but also a little more expensive.

Powering this beast is a hefty 48V, 960Wh battery paired with a 750W rear hub motor, delivering a solid 85 Newton Meters (Nm) of torque. I could feel the power right away as the large Kenda 26×4” tires effortlessly rolled over everything in their path.

The bike’s enormous seat, reminiscent of modern stealth aircraft designs, promised comfort, and I can confirm it delivered, especially on longer rides. However, I found the saddle to be a bit divisive among our staff here at the office. While it offered substantial cushioning, the size and shape might not be to everyone’s taste, and some riders might prefer a more streamlined option.

Its significant 400-pound weight capacity is impressive, and the option to choose between a high-step and step-through frame adds to its versatility. For those wanting a bit more tech, there’s also a torque sensor model priced at $1,699 (which is the bike we tested).

Throughout my rides, the D5 Zebra never failed to impress. The oversized features and promising specs on paper translated into real-world performance that I could feel. So, with its big features and bold presence, does the Himiway D5 Zebra live up to the American love for the big and bold? Join me in this review as I put the fat tire bike through its paces to see if it truly delivers the big results we expect.

[Read more…] about Himiway D5 Zebra Review | A BIG E-Bike With BIG Test Results!

iGo Core Elite 3DHD Review: A Sleeper Commuter Option?

A useful, feature-rich commuter e-bike designed for a smooth, practical ride.

iGo Core Elite 3DHD Review 2024
In a market dominated by e-bikes equipped with bulky tires and versatile designs, iGo introduces a refreshing focus on dedicated commuting with the Core Elite 3DHD. Despite its somewhat cumbersome name, the bike makes a compelling case as a practical choice in the commuter e-bike category.

It’s equipped with a 500W rear hub motor that powers 28×1.75” Maxxis commuter tires, a front suspension fork, and it includes other essential commuter features like front-to-back fenders, integrated LED lighting, and racks.

After running it through our testing paces testing, the Core Elite 3DHD shined with its smooth handling and well-thought-out amenities that enhance its everyday usability. This testing highlighted several standout characteristics and identified some areas needing a little improvement. Let’s delve into the specifics and outcomes of our evaluation to determine whether the Core Elite 3DHD meets the practical demands and expectations of daily commuters in this detailed review.

*iGO has shared an exclusive discount code with the Electric Bike Report audience. Use code: GOELECTRIC100 at checkout for $100 off your e-bike purchase.

[Read more…] about iGo Core Elite 3DHD Review: A Sleeper Commuter Option?

Himiway C5 Review 2024 | Dirt Bike Double-Take

Impressively cool looks, off-road capable, and smile-inducing fun for days!

Himiway C5 Ultra Review 2024
Moto-style e-bikes always bring a spark of excitement to our testing routine. After all, we’ve reviewed plenty of fat tire cruisers, mountain bikes, and even trikes. So, when a model with a distinct dirt bike vibe arrives, it’s a welcome change of pace.

In this Himiway C5 Ultra review, we’ll be looking at Himiway’s latest entry – a modern twist on the classic dirt bike look. Its chunky front suspension fork, BMX-style handlebars, and long saddle instantly caught our attention. The C5 Ultra even sports a fresh set of tires – a collaboration between Himiway and Kenda, dubbed the ‘Himiway X Kenda’ K5 Off-road. These certainly look the part and offer a comfortable ride on and off pavement.

However, while we appreciate the C5’s aesthetics and most of its ride qualities, Himiway’s choice of a torque sensor raises some questions. This sensor might not be the best fit for a bike that encourages throttle-focused riding and shorter leg-extension.

Of course, our opinions are just that – opinions. To back them up, we need hard data. Does the Himiway C5 Ultra deliver on its promise of off-road thrills, or is it just a pretty face? We subjected the C5 to rigorous testing, focusing on speed, braking, range, and especially its off-road capabilities. Tag along as we dive into this Himiway C5 Ultra review and explore all of its features!


[Read more…] about Himiway C5 Review 2024 | Dirt Bike Double-Take

Mokwheel Slate Review 2024 | Can A New-Comer To Folders Carve Out A Spot?

Super long range, great looks and folds up easy!

Mokwheel Slate Review 2024
At first glance, I was impressed by the Mokwheel Slate. It has modern design colors, skin-side 20×3” tires and frame integrated turn signals. But, then I took a look at the specs and immediately thought it might underperform due to the smaller 500W motor.

Boy, was I wrong.

The motor has SERIOUS kick when you hit throttle, but it tested out to be surprisingly efficient. On our range test, the Mokwheel Slate got a result that placed it in 11th place across the hundreds of e-bikes we’ve range tested. So, with that surprise to kick things off in our testing, I was pumped to see what else the Mokwheel Slate had in store for us.

Mokwheel also included a full color HD display, a nice departure from clunky, duo-tone displays of the past. However, the display is a slim, compact design that can be quickly detached and placed into your pocket or bag, effectively disabling the bikes power. Little thoughtful features like that just add to our piece of mind when it comes to e-bike ownership.

It’s not without flaws. The included torque sensor isn’t the most refined I’ve pedalled, and while it folds down just fine there are ways they could make the processs more practical.

But good looks, solid performance and unique features, we’re off to a pretty good start. So, let’s jump into all the details and testing results we got in this Mokwheel Slate review.


[Read more…] about Mokwheel Slate Review 2024 | Can A New-Comer To Folders Carve Out A Spot?