Electric Bike Company Model J Review | Chill Vibe & Fun Ride
This retro scrambler e-bike combines customizable, classic style with a cruiser feel for a unique and comfortable ride.

When EBC released its first moped-style e-bike, the Model J, we wondered if its feel would resemble the brand’s characteristic, cozy beach cruisers or break from the norm with unbridled speed.
At first glance, the Model J looked like a classic scrambler, with an open, minimalistic frame, a “gas tank”-style battery, and an upswept saddle.
On closer inspection, however, I noticed its larger-than-average wheels, standard fork, and BMX-style handlebars — each of which are common on EBC cruisers, but far from typical on your average moped-style e-bike.
As with all EBC e-bikes, the Model J’s appearance can be completely customized – from the paint scheme of its major structural elements down to its individual components. Our test bike matched most of the base model’s specs but included greatly appreciated comfort upgrades like a suspension fork, squishy rubber grips, and a half-twist throttle.
After an easygoing test ride, I found myself perplexed. With its supportive but non-adjustable saddle, the Model J felt much like a typical Moto-style bike. It wasn’t quite as peppy as I was prepared for, but it felt lighter, more comfortable, and more nimble than I expected.
Only the gauntlet of standardized performance tests here at Electric Bike Report would reveal the Model J’s true colors. Would it prove itself a champion of the moped-style e-bike category, or would it fall short of our expectations based on its design and EBC pedigree?
Spoiler alert: we loved most of what we experienced, but there is ONE aspect of its performance that prospective owners should be aware of…
Class 2 (throttle to 20 mph)
Class 3 (pedal assist to 28 mph)
- It feels like an Electric Bike Company bike: it’s approachable, comfy, and chock full of thoughtful details and features (e.g. puncture-resistant tires, rust-resistant stainless hardware, etc.).
- As an EBC bike, it offers a completely customizable build that other moped-style bikes don’t offer, with the ability to choose colors, components, and more.
- Better handling than most moto or moped-style e-bikes thanks to a lighter weight, larger-than-average 24” wheels, and a rigid (or optional single-crown suspension) fork.
- An enjoyable and comfortable ride with a dense but squishy saddle, BMX-style handlebars, and leather grips.
- Managing speed with the throttle is a breeze, as its max speeds are tied to the pedal assist system.
- Extreme long-range potential with the ability to be equipped with up to 3 batteries.
- An industry-leading warranty with 10 years on the motor and frame, 2 years on the battery, and 30 days on the paint.
- As much as possible is built and assembled in the USA.
- It can carry big & tall riders with a payload capacity of up to 420 lbs and a max rider height of 6’8”.
- We appreciate the bike’s controlled speed and acceleration, but the standard 18-amp controller current limits its climbing ability. We encourage EBC to switch to 20 amps for more uphill power and a bit more zip.
- Battery:48V, 14 Ah (672 Wh) EBC approved and certified Lithium-Ion NMC Cells (2 year warranty*)
- Display: Multi Level, user friendly, Interactive, Color LCD Display with USB Charging Port
- Motor: 500w nominal 750w programmed max output due to regulation 1250w max output possible (10 year warranty)
- Charger: 3.5 Amp Smart Super Charger with Smart charging technology, cooling fan, aluminum cover & 3 prong charging port for safety
- Headlight: Front and Rear LED safety lights standard
- Taillights: Front and Rear LED safety lights standard
- Pedal Assist: 5 Power Assist Levels
- Claimed Range: Up to 60 miles
- Throttle:Thumb Throttle
- UL Certification:UL 2271
- Claimed weight: 53 lbs.
- Tested Weight: 71.1 lbs
- Rider height range: 5′ – 6′ 8″
- Total payload capacity: 420 lbs.
- Brakes: 2 Piston, Hydraulic Disc Brakes, 180 mm Stainless steel (1.8 mm thick)
- Fenders: Optional
- Fork: Rigid fork
- Frame: Aluminum 6061, Hydro-formed frame
- Drivetrain: Single-Speed, 58T Chainring, 16T rear cog
- Grips: Hand-Stitched Leather Aluminium secure ends for Non slip
- Saddle: Banana style seat
- Handlebar: BMX Riser Street Style
- Kickstand: Motor Bike Grade, Heavy Duty Non-slip sole & wide reinforced rubber foot
- Pedals: Large platform with comfort non-slip rubber with sealed bearings and dual reflectors
- Tires: Puncture Resistant, Reflective Side Walls with All weather rust proof Schrader valve – Wheel Size 24 x 3″
The Model J ships as a Class 2 e-bike limited to 20 mph, but can be unlocked to Class 3 or Off-Road modes with 28 mph maximum speeds.
The Model J’s MXUS 500W rear-hub motor can deliver thrills without feeling overpowered.
The base model includes one 48V, 672 Wh battery, but users can add up to two additional batteries when customizing the bike.
Electric Bike Company Model J Review: Speed Test
The Model J had an approachable and controlled feel in our Speed Test, with a wide range of speeds and power levels. The bike’s throttle and pedal assist system (PAS) share the same limits in its 5 assist settings, so we took it on the local bike paths and tested its range of throttle speeds in both Class 2 (20 mph limit) and Off-Road Mode (28 mph limit).
The bike seemed to fluctuate in speed by 1-to-2 miles per hour in both tests, with the motor relaxing after reaching a preset limit and re-engaging after drifting down again. For the purposes of discussion, let’s focus on the average in each setting.
In Class 2 mode, the bike’s speeds felt well-distributed across its 5 settings. As shown in the graph above, each increase in speed was measured and consistent. This linear shape and distribution is what we consider ideal; I found it to be intuitive and sensible, but also fun and practical.
Unlocked to Off-Road Mode, the bike was noticeably faster, but it maintained a similar pattern of well-balanced speeds and a controlled feel. Personally, I would not have minded a little more kick – but I appreciate EBC’s focus on safety and accessibility to riders of all ages.
I liked that Electric Bike Company allowed the throttle speed to be controlled by the PAS; I think this makes perfect sense on a bike that most riders are unlikely to pedal. For reasons I do not understand, most Moto-style e-bikes lack this feature.
The Model J’s programming seemed to work well, and I expect that it will allow the Model J to appeal to a wide range of riders. Riders who prefer a reserved feel should find the bike manageable in its lower settings, while those who prefer a bit more speed and intensity (without going off the rails) should dig the higher assist levels.
The Model J has a unique look in the moto-style space, matching more closely to the classic and beachy vibe of other EBC bikes.
The single-speed drivetrain pairs a 52T chainring with a 16T cog on the freewheel. We liked the included chain guard.
A thumb throttle and leather grips are standard, but our test bike included an optional half-twist throttle and rubber grips instead.
Electric Bike Company Model J Review: Range Test
The Model J traveled a respectable 25.3 miles with its throttle in our Range Test. Electric Bike Company advertises a range of 25 miles, so their claim was right on the money. The brand also advertises that they do their own range testing – which seems accurate based on our coinciding results.
Compared to similar moped-style e-bikes we’ve tested, the Model J was able to hold its own. Its results were relatively middle-of-the-road, though our ability to compare is limited, as we recently changed our testing process for this style of bike.
In the grand scheme, the Model J covered more ground than we expected based on its motor and battery specs, though the numbers were close. We estimated 23.5 miles over the course of 81 minutes, but the bike’s real-world results improved by 8%.
The bike’s relatively low weight and the fairly reserved feel of its motor likely gave it a slight edge. One other factor likely contributed: where many similar bikes had relatively small batteries in relation to their motors, the Model J’s battery capacity exceeded its motor’s nominal output, giving it more time on the road.
We feel confident that the bike’s ability to travel 25 miles on a single charge should cover most leisure rides or commutes. Should you find that you want (or truly need) more range, the bike can carry up to three batteries. An additional battery or two can be added for a reasonable increase in price when customizing it.
We’re pleased to note that Electric Bike Company offers a variety of chargers as well. The Model J includes a 2-amp charger, but this can be upgraded to a fast 3.5-amp charger with a charging time of about 4 hours per battery. A 5-amp supercharger that can get top off the battery less than 3 hours is also offered.
Electric Bike Company Model J Review: Hill Test
Fans of moto-style e-bikes will likely be familiar with Super73, a prominent (and also California-based) manufacturer in the moto-style e-bike space. The Model J’s throttle result was remarkably close to the Super73 S2, showing that EBC can match its competition.
Full disclosure: the above results are from our second Hill Test with the Model J. The bike was unable to complete the throttle portion of the test when we tested it with its standard settings. This was not unexpected considering the motor’s 60 Nm of torque and peak of 749.99 watts, but we felt that the bike could use a bit more “juice.”
To be clear: I had no trouble throttling up several average (and even a few steep-but-not-Hell-Hole-steep) hills in my testing with the bike’s standard settings. In truth, we enjoyed the controlled feel that Electric Bike Company opted for; the market is already saturated with overpowered Moto-style e-bikes, so a reserved option is appreciated.
For our second test, we worked with one of Electric Bike Company’s many mechanics to increase the controller’s current from 18 to 20 amps. This change increased the bike’s peak wattage, which gave it the boost needed to surmount the summit of our test hill.
FYI – users looking to up their bike’s oomph are required to sign a waiver, as the increased current can damage the bike’s controller. We were advised that 20 amps is safe, but there is a limit to how high the current can go.
The Model J’s reserved feel makes it unique, but we anticipate that most riders will prefer more uphill power. We encourage EBC to increase the standard current so the bike has a bit more climbing power right out of the box. With this upgrade, the bike could give riders the option to pedal or throttle over hills, while still being safe and accessible.
While many components are made overseas, Electric Bike Company paints and assembles its e-bikes in California.
The Bengal Aries 3 hydraulic disc brakes use 180mm front and rear rotors.
EBC’s tires are custom made, with a thick layer of puncture protection to help avoid flats.
Electric Bike Company Model J Review: Brake Test
The Model J stopped quickly and effectively in our Brake Test; its average stopping distance was an excellent result of 19’ 1”. At the time of writing, the average result for all moped-style e-bikes with hydraulic brakes we’ve tested is 19’ 9”, so its performance was noticeably above average.
Two factors likely contributed to the bike’s performance: its weight and its Bengal Aries 3 hydraulic disc brake system.
The Model J was easier to slow down than many similar e-bikes because, at roughly 67 lbs with the optional cargo racks on our test bike, it weighed far less than most other moto-style bikes we’ve tested. Its beefier cousins often tip the scales in the 85-95-lb range, adding more momentum that their brake systems must overcome.
Speaking of brake systems, the Model J’s Bengal brakes felt powerful and intense – while still being firmly under control. The brakes felt effective under normal application, and they stopped the bike quickly when simulating the urgency of an emergency situation, so we consider the bike to be specced extremely well for its size, weight, and speed.
We liked the steering control and comfort of the Model J’s BMX-style handlebars.
The color display is unique, with an appealing layout and tons of useful ride data.
While a rigid fork is standard, we appreciated the added comfort of the 80mm coil suspension fork.
Buyers who customize the bike can choose between a black or brown saddle.
Electric Bike Company Model J Review: Ride Quality
We found that Electric Bike Company’s advertised height range of 5’ 0” to 6’ 8” was relatively accurate. At 5’ 11”, I experienced a good fit, but I asked our shorter and taller testers to try the bike out. Sydney, who is just over 5’ tall, had to lean the bike to the side when she was getting on or off – but felt comfortable when moving. Matthew, who is 6-foot-5, had no trouble mounting or dismounting but felt somewhat cramped when riding.
As is common with moto-style e-bikes, we found the Model J to be somewhat tough to pedal due to its geometry and non-adjustable saddle. I had a much easier time in the bike’s higher-assist levels, where pedaling without force was all that was required. But we expect most riders will likely rely on the throttle for a more fun and comfortable experience.
In terms of the user interface, I found the bike generally easy to operate. I liked the optional twist throttle on our test bike, as well as the simple and small control panel and the unique color display. The screen was difficult to read when wearing polarized sunglasses, but this was less of an issue when I was used to the pre-set speed limits.
I have a few (nitpicky) points of critique to add. I felt that the process of changing the bike’s settings was a chore, though I understand this was an intentional decision. I’d like to be able to deactivate the loud alarm beep when connecting or removing the charger. And finally, the kickstand sometimes got in the way of the pedals when parking the bike.
Otherwise, I appreciated the Model J’s uncommon level of utility. The bike can be equipped with front and rear MIK cargo racks, which are compatible with a huge variety of baskets and storage bags that lock into place. Beach bums can even take advantage of a surfboard rack attachment!
Our test bike included a rear rack and cargo basket, making the bike practical for running errands or grabbing groceries.
Both optional cargo racks are compatible with locking MIK accessories including baskets, bags, and more.
Riders can select between high and low beams using the small toggle module on the right handlebar
While a large round headlight is standard, the addition of a front rack adds two light modules: a high and low beam.
Electric Bike Company Model J Review: Summary / Where to Buy
The Model J includes all the features we know, love, and expect from an EBC bike – classic styling, a nearly unparalleled level of customization options, and a relaxed and casual ride experience.
It also generally performed well in our testing, with a user-friendly speed profile, good braking, respectable range, and decent climbing ability – after an adjustment to the bike’s controller.
We feel that it would make a suitable – and more importantly, safe and entirely legal – moped-style e-bike for teens and young adults (but also, anyone). It would make a practical commuter or errand runner, or simply a fun way to get to the beach.
So while its feel and performance lean more into cruiser territory than some might expect, we think that’s a good thing. The market is saturated by overpowered moto-style e-bikes, so a more relaxed take on the category is refreshing – and helps to separate the Model J from the crowd. .
Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Electric Bike Company Model J down in our comments section.
In the ride quality section, the review switches over to talking about the Velotric Fold 1. 🙂
Good catch! Not sure how that happened, but thanks for letting us know. It’s fixed now. 🙂