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Aventon Level 4 REC Review: 97 Mile Range?! This Changes Everything

This adaptable, responsive, and remarkably powerful commuter e-bike offers a sporty, speedy ride with more integrated tech and features than you can shake a stick at.

Aventon Level 4 REC Review

For e-bike brands, consumers, and reviewers like us, it’s essential that every e-bike has its own well-defined character. Models with clear and unique names, appearances, specs, and purposes are appealing for their simplicity; one can generally grasp the basics of these bikes with a single glance.

In some cases, such as when comparing Aventon’s Level 3 and Pace 4 models, the lines get a bit blurred. While the former was geared toward commuters with its stretched out frame and more aggressive posture, the latter positioned itself more as a leisure bike for cruising with more relaxed and upright geometry. Their specs, however, were nearly identical, making it potentially difficult for prospective riders to know which they might prefer.

The Level 4 REC aims to solve this dilemma. While the brand also released a mid-drive equipped ADV model we reviewed separately, this new rear-hub version of the Level 4 offers more power, new features, and an upgraded user interface—essentially tightening up and polishing the last-gen model’s great foundation.

On paper, this means that the Level 4 REC should define itself as a capable, user-friendly, and versatile e-bike that exists solidly between Aventon’s iconic fat-tire model, the Aventure, and its comfortable cruiser, the Pace.

We were excited to see how well this theory would hold up under real-world testing. Would the Level 4 REC stand out as a function-focused commuter with an extra dose of power? Would its performance meet the high bar set by the previous model? And what new additions are included?

See the full review below to find out.

[Read more…] about Aventon Level 4 REC Review: 97 Mile Range?! This Changes Everything

Aventon Level 4 ADV Review | Is This the Perfect Commuter?

With a mid-drive motor and fully automatic pedal assist and shifting options, this Level offers premium features for experienced cyclists and new riders alike.

Aventon Level 4 ADV Review

While there’s no such thing as a perfect e-bike, every now and then, one comes along that feels *this* close to reaching its full potential. Aventon’s last-gen Level 3 was one such model; it was a fresh take on the brand’s dedicated commuter, boasting a sharp design, a host of integrated tech and security features, a dialed-in pedal assist system, and more.

Our experience left us dreaming about a future where the Level would come equipped with a mid-drive motor instead of a rear-hub—and we were thrilled to learn that the Level 4 ADV would offer just that. In fact, the 4th generation of this bike now comes in both mid-drive and rear-hub versions; we reviewed the hub-motor-equipped Level 4 REC separately.

The Level 4 ADV, part of Aventon’s Adventure line, boasts a host of upgrades in addition to its custom 250W Ultro S mid-drive. The Level 4 ADV features a redesigned frame, a high-capacity 36V, 800 Wh battery, a 10-speed Shimano CUES drivetrain, a new display/user interface, and an electronic shifting system with automatic shifting capabilities.

When the auto shifting is combined with the bike’s Auto assist level, which can fluctuate power output across the motor’s full range, riders can simply hop on, pedal, and let the bike adapt to its rider and surroundings.

Both versions of the bike come equipped with the incredible suite of customization and security features shared by nearly all other Aventon models. Riders can lock the wheel and battery, tune motor output, and access location tracking, motion detection, geofencing, and remote disabling features through the brand’s app.

On paper, the Level 4 ADV is a compelling commuter e-bike that seems to offer a premium user experience at an approachable price. Its spec sheet—and our built-up hopes and dreams—set a high bar for the bike to clear. After hands-on experience, did it live up to our expectations? Find out in the full review below!

[Read more…] about Aventon Level 4 ADV Review | Is This the Perfect Commuter?

Super73’s New A-Series, Ridstar Battery Fires; Refuses Recall | TWR Ep 76

Plus Specialized Recalls Turo Como SL, How We Range Test, and More!





***Please indulge me as I wish you all farewell***

I, of course, shall deliver the e-bike news you came for, but before I do that, I wanted to wish this wonderful Electric Bike Report audience goodbye. For the last five years, I’ve had the privilege to work here amongst some amazing people. I also got to live out a dream for most people: writing and talking about electric bikes and somehow making a living by riding many of them. It’s been an incredible journey, and few things have brought me as much joy as seeing the rapid adoption of e-bikes by the masses and sharing details of the e-bike world with you all.

I appreciate all the support this audience has given me over the years. We often remark how harsh life on the internet can be, and while there is truth to that, I’ve received tenfold support and nice things from my correspondence with the audience we’ve been able to build here. For that, my sincerest gratitude and thanks to you all.

I won’t be at Electric Bike Report anymore, but I’ll never leave the e-bike world, and hope to see you all on the trails! – Griffin

As promised, the e-bike news cycle doesn’t stop. This week the major headlines revolve around the newest wave of bikes from Super73, which just launched the A-series. They’re staying very much on brand with fun-looking moto rides, but making them more accessible and practical than ever before.

In other stories, despite several reported fires, Ridstar has refused a CPSC recall notice, meaning the CPSC is instead urging a do-not-ride notice on its bikes due to the significant risk they pose. There are already 11 incidents reported, and tens of thousands of dollars in damages.

Elsewhere, Specialized is recalling Turbo Como SL models due to faulty steerer tubes, and John and Griffin dive into a plethora of your e-bike questions about how we do range test, what’s up with the noise of Ride Quality portions, and much more

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This Week’s E-Bike News Headlines

Super73 releases the all-new A series

Super73 A series

Photo cred: Super73

After teasing new models for several months, Super73 has released the all-new A-series. Each bike in the lineup features the classic moto-inspiration the brand is known for, with the classic diamond frames, BMX handlebars, and massive headlights, while the bikes better accommodate riders of different sizes, and include a few more commute-worthy practical features for those looking to make the ride their mode of transportation.

The bikes include:

  • MZFT (27”) – starting at $1,995
  • M1D (30”) – mid-size starting at $2,495
  • B1G (33”) – largest option, starting at $2,595
  • Each model also gets a higher-spec Special Edition (SE) version with upgrades like larger batteries, adjustable front suspension, better brakes, and 750W motors, and updated digital displays. Those models top out at $2995

All the bikes share some basic specs, including:

  • 500W nominal motor and top speeds of 20 mph.
  • 52V/520Wh battery
  • 2-piston brakes
  • Fully rigid frames
  • 4.5” tires, with diameters ranging from 16-20”
  • Included loading storage under the bench seat, and the ability to run dual batteries.

Our Take: Super73 was all about running with the cool kids, and now it looks like they’re making machines with some more practicality and optionality with these different sizes of bikes, and things like storage or doubling your battery capacity. The bikes still have major aesthetic appeal, but these prices seem friendlier than many previous models with arguable some better specs to it.

The moto-style category has been the target of many over recent years. Surrons and Talaria’s have muddied the waters, and so too have brands like Super73 if we’re being honest. The leadership team has signaled they are willing to comply and keep speeds in check and make sure the rides meet the standards of current litigation so if they can thread the needle of making things compliant with the law, fun and desirable, and more functional than ever before, then I expect these bikes could very well be a hit.

Ridstar E-Bikes Linked to 11 Battery Fires; Refuses CPSC Recall

ridstar q20

Photo cred: Ridstar

On March 19, 2026, the CPSC issued a notice urging owners of Ridstar Q20 and Q20 Pro e-bikes to stop riding and even dispose of battery packs with the bike through proper hazardous waste channels.

These bikes were cheaper models available on retailers like Amazon and Walmart, and through the company’s own website for $700 or less.

This notice is due to 11 fire incidents linked to these models, resulting in 1 burn injury, 5 cases of smoke inhalation, and 2 instances of property damage totaling more than $40K.

Also, this is a CPSC urgent warning instead of a recall as that requires brand cooperation, and as of this recording, Ridstar’s manufacturer, Huizhou Xingqishi Sporting Goods Co., Ltd., of China, “has refused to agree to an acceptable recall.”

The main takeaway here is if you own one of these, safety first, dispose of the battery through proper channels and hopefully, in time, refunds or replacements can be worked out, but that’s the secondary concern here.

Our Take: As we frequently remind our audience, oftentimes, you get what you pay for with cheaper e-bikes. Please avoid too good to be true pricing from brands like this, as they often cut corners.

Ridstart did claim UL-certified batteries. However, this could have been deceptive, as it’s not unheard of for Amazon sellers to make these fraudulent claims without ever properly certifying the batteries. The UL Database is notoriously difficult to track down a company’s certifications and that usually requires brand cooperation for us to verify, so as of this recording, we can’t say whether or not they were definitely lying on this front, but given recent lawsuits from Amazon involving other fraudulent claims of UL certification of some manufacturers, it could signal Ridstar did something similar.

Specialized issues recall on Turbo Como SL e-bikes.

Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 IGH Electric Bike Review Action Shot

The Specilized Turbo Como SL lineup is being recalled. Specialized is recalling 5,720 SL 4.0 and 5.0s due to a steerer tube issue that can develop a crack and lead to fork failure.

One incident has been reported, with no injuries happening as a result.

The recall applies to all Como SL e-bikes regardless of model.
Specialized is urging riders to stop riding and go to their nearest Specialized retailer to receive a free fork replacement.

The bikes were all sold from March 2021 through January 2026.

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Gear Highlight

A trio of Hiplok options for lightweight, medium, or heavier-duty locking needs.

Hiplok Z Lok Combo

  • Lightweight security tie
  • Resettable combination code
  • Reinforced steel core for protection, but the exterior is a plastic-ish material to be gentle on frames.
  • Optional bracket for mounting to a bike
  • Great for just popping into a store or something really quick and deterring opportunists, and it won’t weigh your bag or bike down much.
  • Really good for just looping the wheel to the seat stays and essentially making it like a boot for your bike.
  • Length is 510mm, so it is enough to get a tire to a bike stand, though too
  • 4 different colors (black, green, orange, blue)
  • MSRP $29.99

Switch 105 folding bike lock

  • Hiploks best folding lock with Sold Secure bronze ratings
  • 105cm locking length for versatile lock-up
  • Hardened steel exterior
  • SWITCH system – multiple carry options
  • Clips to belts and bag straps for versatile carrying
  • 3 coded replaceable keys included
  • Can be mounted to frames and forks with the right mounting locations
  • 105 cm locking length
  • 2.6 lbs
  • 2 colors: black and grey
  • MSRP: $129.99

Urban D

  • One of the most affordable of Hiplok’s heavyweight tier. Only the anti-angle grinder class goes for more
  • Sold Secure Gold rating
  • Hardened 13mm steel shackle with rubberised casing
  • Anti-rotation, double locking
  • Anti-pick lock cylinder
  • Easy-install bike frame bracket included
  • 3 x replaceable keys included
  • Lifetime warranty – just register it within 30 days
  • 2.8 lbs
  • One color, black
  • MSRP: $89.99

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

  • Nice range on the Velotric Tempo. What’s the rider’s weight of the person conducting the test?
  • You mentioned Tern care on the Tern Vektron P5i. What is that?
  • The Aventon Current EXP looked great, but why was the ride quality footage so loud?
  • Are 500W motors, like on the Magnum Peak 2.0, making a comeback? Does it make sense to use these instead of 750W motors?
  • What are our thoughts on Pinion’s MGU for eMTBs?
  • For larger riders, would we recommend the Ride1Up Vorsa FT or the Velotric Summit 2?

E-Bike Deals Found This Week

    • Lectric’s nothing but net sale – up to $536 in savings
      • XPeak 2 is discounted, now starts at just $1299 ($200 off) + $336 in upgrades (rear rack, fenders, elite headlight, suspension seat post)
      • Straightforward fun and powerful fat tire e-bike, with a better quality fork than you often find. Unique motor engagement too, with combo torque and cadence sensor feel.
  • Euphree’s Stellar Falcon Sale
    • Mid-step Stellar Falcon is $500 off, now just $1999
    • Great motor, pick your sensor on motor engagement
    • Comfort focus with a nice fork and suspension seatpost + the adjustable stem.

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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Heybike Hybrid Review | Laid-Back & Long Range

The Hybrid lives up to its name as a balanced fusion between an energy-efficient commuter and a comfortable cruiser, with a few dashes of tech for good measure!

Heybike Omega Series Hybrid Review

About a year before the writing of this review, Heybike released its mid-drive-equipped fat tire e-bike, the Alpha. It should not have been surprising, then, that the brand would follow the Alpha up with the Omega.

The Omega Series Hybrid, that is.

This e-bike is one of the latest models we’ve seen in the increasingly popular cruiser/commuter category. E-bikes of this style typically blend the comfort and softness of cruisers with the robust features and long-range capabilities of commuters. As such, they’re typically equally suited for the rigors of daily travel, regular leisure rides, or both.

At face value, the Heybike Hybrid is just that—a fusion of e-bike styles meant for multipurpose use. Its curved handlebars, shock-absorbing suspension fork, and broad, squishy saddle check the boxes for comfort. The bike’s oversized battery, powerful motor, pragmatic component package, and functional accessories cover the commuting side.

One of the Hybrid’s largest draws is its massive, fully-integrated 48V, 864-Wh battery. It’s hard to miss, as the bike’s prominent down tube is scaled up to house this beefy, plus-sized power pack. Heybike advertises that this battery can fuel the Hybrid’s 750W motor for up to 100 miles of range—an impressive distance for any e-bike.

Another appealing feature is the Hybrid’s combination of torque and cadence sensors. Offering both the adaptive power of a torque-based system and the granular speed control of cadence-based pedal assist, the bike is easy to pedal and control. Users can also take advantage of the Heybike app to customize its speeds and other aspects of its ride feel.

So how did the Hybrid’s specs, components, and features combine in terms of real world performance? See below for details!

[Read more…] about Heybike Hybrid Review | Laid-Back & Long Range

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

AIMA Rocky Review | It’s Got Flash; How About Substance?

The AIMA Rocky is a hybrid e-bike with serious motor power and a paint job that’s guaranteed to turn heads. If you’re a shorter rider looking for a commuter that can handle light off-road detours, this one might fit the bill.

AIMA Rocky Review

If you like the aggressive look of a mountain bike but have more relaxed, mellow off-road ambitions, hybrid bikes like AIMA’s Rocky make a lot of sense.

It has the edge you want like knobby tires, quality brakes, a beefed-up Shimano CUES drivetrain. It’s also got a slick frame that still leans commuter-friendly. The Rocky is clearly living in two worlds: it’s capable enough for light-duty off-roading, while the motor (and thumb throttle) make for quick, fun commutes and take the sting out of hills.

AIMA also continues to lean into its safety-forward identity, and the strong brake package helps the bike feel controlled no matter where you’re riding. The spec sheet is further boosted by the Shimano CUES drivetrain, which gives you enough range to pedal comfortably with the torque sensor, or you can switch to the cadence sensor option and let the bike do more of the heavy lifting with minimal effort.

The Rocky isn’t without limits. It comes in just one frame size, and the fork is modest—fine for casual use, but it’ll cap how hard you’ll want to push it off-road. Still, if you’re sized right and mainly want a commuter that can handle the occasional dirt path or light trail, the Rocky feels thoughtfully put together and rides as confidently as most bikes in its price range.

[Read more…] about AIMA Rocky Review | It’s Got Flash; How About Substance?

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 Peak 2.0 Review | For The Active SUV Life

The Peak 2.0 is a fun, versatile ride that encourages you to venture off the beaten path. It delivers a terrific ride feel for riders who want a more active, exercise-oriented experience, while still offering options for easier motor support when you want it.

Magnum Peak 2.0 Review

Magnum’s Peak 2.0 fits neatly into that class of bike that’s not quite a dedicated mountain bike, nor a commuter, but one you can pleasantly enjoy bits of both worlds in. This hybrid category is an ever-increasingly competitive one, but Magnum manages to carve out it’s own wrinkles on this category for those looking to hit leisurely cross-country trails and make it to work during the week.

The Peak 2.0 equips a 500W motor with 65Nm of torque and a peak of 840W of output. These numbers aren’t eye-popping like some figures in the category these days, but it’s not all about the number; it’s about how it’s used. The bike has swappable torque or cadence sensor engagement, but the torque sensor experience provides one of the better active pedal experiences we’ve encountered lately. It’s not the slight assist of an exercise e-bike; this has more juice than that, but it’s definitely better if you want an active ride experience. You’ll put in some light to medium work, but get a whole lot of assistance for your efforts.

The Peak 2.0 had impressive range and braking scores, scoring better than most of its peers in its price range. The overall ride is really comfortable as well. The frame has been designed so you have an upright yet still engaged body posture, but the new lower angle of the top tube makes it more accessible, fitting most riders in the 5’4” – 6’4” range nicely.

Magnum also makes the experience a little more premium feeling with a sleek top-tube integrated display. It’s a genuinely nice sight to behold compared to older chunky models, and it displays data effectively while giving the bike more eye-appeal.

The design is overall well-executed with a downtube that houses the sizeable battery and comes up into a peak with the metal (not sure if that was intentional, but I hope it was!). The cables are braided and run well, and you almost can’t spot the removable battery at first, but it can be dropped out for easier charging or transport. Outside of the inconvenient kickstand location (it can clash with the pedal), it’s overall a sound and well-designed ride that gets most of it right.

The bike has some limits to its offroading, but if kept with “leisurely offroading” in mind, it’s easy to focus on it’s good traits more than its limits: it’s a fun, active feeling bike you want to pedal and head further down on the beaten path with.

[Read more…] about Magnum Peak 2.0 Review | For The Active SUV Life

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!

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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!

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