Evelo Omega Review | The Last Cruiser You’ll Ever Need?

According to Evelo, the Omega’s fully integrated 48V, 720 watt-hour (Wh) battery can keep it rolling for up to 60 miles. Our testing confirmed this estimate; using the process explained in the graphic above, our team found its minimum range to be around 37 miles and its maximum range to be nearly 69 miles.

A group of similar cruisers we reviewed, many of which are among the best cruiser-style e-bikes on the market, averaged 30.4 and 59.9 miles in their testing. By this metric, the Omega is capable of above-average range, which we attribute to one primary factor: battery capacity.

The Omega’s 720 Wh battery is significantly larger than the average of 595 Wh, allowing it to remain on the move for greater distances. This is in spite of the fact that its motor is slightly less efficient than average; we calculated that the Omega used roughly 10.5 and 19.7 watt-hours per mile (Wh/mi) compared to the average of 9.9 and 19.6 Wh/mi.

Once again, these results were measured with the bike in its default settings; all speed and power limits were set to 100% and the Omega’s maximum speed was 20 mph. Riding faster with the bike’s speed unrestricted will likely reduce its range, while lowering its speed or current limits could help to extend it.

Most riders we interact with tend to take relatively short trips in the neighborhood of 10 miles. With that in mind, the Omega has the potential to make at least a few leisurely cruises before its battery will need to be plugged in. The included 3-amp charger should have the 15 amp-hour (Ah) battery recharged in roughly 5 hours.

The Omega successfully completed both portions of our Hill Test (see the graphic above for a description of the test), with a throttle time of 3:09 and a pedal result of 2:34.

In both cases, the bike felt controlled and steady. Its throttle was relatively reserved in its output, but it pushed beyond our expectations, continuing where some other models we’ve tested would likely have given out. When pedaling, it delivered power naturally for an active, but far from exhausting, climbing experience.

Comparison with similar models is difficult; at the time of writing, we have only tested one other cruiser-style e-bike with a mid-drive at the Devil’s Backbone. Longtime readers of our reviews will remember our old Hill Test location called Hell Hole Trail; we were forced to relocate and are still building a new dataset at the new location.

The other comparable model was unsuccessful when using only throttle power, despite being lighter and having the same motor and Enviolo transmission. In that case, it is possible that some inconsistencies with the Automatiq system affected the bike’s climbing performance. In its pedal test, the Omega was one second faster, showing more consistency between similarly-equipped bikes.

It is worth noting that we have tested other cruiser-style e-bikes with rear-hub motors at the Devil’s Backbone. Across all categories, e-bikes with mid-drives are typically slower when climbing due to their reliance on the rider’s input and their dependence on gearing, so a comparison with these models would not be fair.

As I referenced earlier, it is relatively uncommon for mid-drive e-bikes to feature throttles. With this in mind, we were impressed with the Omega’s ability to reach the top of our test hill. It might not have been the speediest e-bike to get there, but it effectively offers riders the ability to pedal actively or throttle relaxedly when approaching hills.

Our test rider, Justin, noted that the Enviolo Automatiq system felt somewhat limiting during the pedal test; he wished for the ability to downshift for a slightly less intensive experience.

Those concerned about pedaling uphill may consider adding the Enviolo Automatiq CO controller. This handlebar-mounted module allows users to manually adjust the system and is available separately for purchase for around $50.

The Omega is equipped with Tektro’s Auriga hydraulic disc brake system. This e-bike-specific system includes 2-piston calipers, a 180mm front rotor, a 160mm rear rotor, and a motor cutoff feature that stops all throttle power or pedal assist when the brake levers are squeezed.

Using the method above, we tested the Auriga’s power and determined the Omega’s average stopping distance to be 20’ 8”. In comparison to similar models we’ve tested, which averaged 21’2”, the Omega was slightly faster than average. This is despite it being on the heavier side at around 68 lbs, while the average among other cruisers is around 52 lbs.

We attribute the bike’s performance to the brake system itself. Case in point: we originally tested the Omega a few years ago when it was equipped with a Zoom hydraulic brake system, and found its stopping distance to be 24’ 7”. While Evelo made some other spec changes that may have slightly altered the bike’s weight, the upgrade to Auriga brakes was the most obvious improvement leading to its nearly 4’ shorter result.

The new brake system’s stopping power was obvious when going by feel as well as when looking at the numbers. Our tester, Griffin, noted that they had a strong bite that allowed him to stop on a dime when needed, but that they functioned smoothly and reliably with less pressure on the brake levers, too.

Based on both the data and hands-on experience, we can firmly state that the Omega is equipped with safe and effective brakes.

While it’s true that ride quality can be summarized succinctly in a word, it’s equally true that the subject is complex enough to warrant a more thorough explanation. Ride quality, which is a measure of how a bike feels to ride, factors in elements such as sizing/fit, handling, comfort, the user interface, and many others.

Our team of testers found the Omega comfortable, but sizing is also one of our areas of critique. The bike has a single size intended for riders between 5’ 4” and 6’ 2”. Its step-thru frame has a 17” standover height, and it makes use of a fixed high-rise stem and a long seatpost with 9” of saddle adjustment.

The bike should be comfortable for riders of average to relatively tall height, but those on the shorter end of the spectrum may have a tougher time reaching the handlebars. Fortunately, Evelo’s Galaxy Lux model, which features much of the same technology (a 600W Bafang mid-drive, Enviolo Automatiq transmission, and Gates Carbon belt), is sized for those as short as 4′ 10″.

With a rigid aluminum fork and medium-sized wheels, the Omega’s handling is generally crisp and predictable, though we did notice some frame flex when cornering. By default, the bike’s 26×2.8” Innova street tires serve as its suspension; their width provides a stable platform when riding, while their pressure can be reduced for increased shock absorption.

Our test bike, however, included all three of Evelo’s compatible comfort upgrades: a Selle Royal XXL Royal Cruiser saddle, a Kinekt Comfort+ suspension stem with 20mm of travel, and a Cane Creek Thudbuster suspension seatpost with 50mm of travel.

While they add cost to an already relatively costly e-bike (the Omega is priced around $4,000 at the time of writing), the upgrades are worthwhile. The combination effectively smooths small bumps while cruising, and dampens larger impacts when rolling over larger obstacles.

To touch back on cost, there’s no doubt that the Omega includes premium technology and components that warrant a higher-than-average price. Its mid-drive motor, sizable battery, Enviolo CVT, and Tektro Auriga brakes all add up to an uncommonly robust spec package.

With that in mind, the bike is missing some elements that we often see on more affordable e-bikes, including integrated turn signals, prominent security features (a password can be set up through the display menu), multiple color options, and an included cargo rack (one can be added separately or in combination with the dual-battery upgrade).

We’ve discussed the motor’s engagement and the Omega’s straightforward user interface; its natural feel and simple operation are some of its defining features. In an age where e-bikes are often paired with complex mobile apps, we appreciate those that require less of a learning curve. The Omega still offers a fair amount of customization through its settings menu for those who want it.

Overall, the bike delivers a relaxed, comfortable, and low-effort experience that matches its cruiser styling. While it’s not a perfect e-bike, there’s much to appreciate for those who enjoy a refined and easy ride.

My fellow reviewer Griffin described the Evelo Omega as the “Cadillac” of e-bikes. While that analogy may not translate as well as it might have 30 or 40 years ago, I think it does appropriately convey the Omega’s experience to those who will likely be in the market for it. If you’re reading this, perhaps that’s you.

As we’ve discussed, the Omega largely justifies its premium price tag with an uncommonly refined and hands-free (not literally) riding experience. The Enviolo Automatiq’s ability to shift automatically and adapt to the environment is generally smooth and simple. It goes hand-in-hand with the quintessential spirit of cruiser-style e-bikes, encouraging riders to enjoy their surroundings instead of fiddling with too many levers, buttons, and switches.

We were generally impressed with the Omega, as it performed well in all areas of our testing. It offers an intuitive pedal assist system with approachable power levels and the feeling of riding a “regular” bike. It also exceeded the range of many similar models we’ve tested.

Additionally, its brake system proved effective, and while it may not be a speed champion in the climbing department, it demonstrated that it has the power and ability to safely and steadily carry its rider uphill.

Our only areas of critique are centered around the Omega’s limitations. With few points of adjustment in the cockpit, shorter riders may need to look to the Galaxy Lux as an alternative. Considering its cost, we would also like to see a wider array of color options in the future.

Otherwise, it’s a cruiser that is easy to recommend for leisure purposes, long-distance commutes, and encouraging an active lifestyle. If you’re the kind of rider who doesn’t mind exchanging a higher price for an elevated experience, the Omega serves as an accessible, natural-feeling e-bike with a luxury spin.

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 Evelo Omega down in our comments section.