Heybike Hauler Review | Comfy & Cost-Friendly, but Capable?

The goal of our Range Test was to determine the Hauler’s minimum and maximum range; we achieved this using the process described in the graphic above. We tested the bike with its app unpaired (5 PAS settings) in Class 2 mode with no cargo on the rack.

As I mentioned previously, the base-level Hauler includes a single 48V, 864-watt-hour (Wh) battery, but buyers can purchase a dual-battery configuration that adds a second 600 Wh battery behind the seat tube. Heybike sent us the dual-battery version of the bike, though we performed our Range Test using the single main battery.

By determining the watt-hours used per mile and dividing the bike’s total possible battery capacity by that figure, we used our real-world test results to calculate estimates for the dual-battery configuration. Both sets of results are shown above.

Heybike advertises a range of up to 55 miles with the single-battery Hauler and up to 85 miles with the dual-battery configuration. Based on our real-world results and the estimates we calculated for the full 1,464 Wh capacity, we consider the brand’s claims reasonable.

Compared to other cargo e-bikes we’ve tested with rear hub motors, the Hauler’s results were somewhat below average despite its larger-than-average battery. Similar long-tail cargo e-bikes have averaged 33.7 and 63.3 miles in our testing.

The Hauler’s weight was likely one contributing factor to its performance since a heavier bike requires more energy to move than a lighter bike. At 102 lbs, the Hauler is heavier than average, so it was also naturally less efficient.

There was a second factor I noted when comparing the Hauler with similar models. One bike with an unusually long result likely skewed our data, at least in the low-power test. With that bike removed from the comparison pool, the Hauler’s results were only about 5 miles below average instead of roughly 12.

Overall, we are satisfied with its results; the bike’s ability to travel a maximum of nearly 51 miles on a single charge is impressive. Users should keep in mind that, as with all cargo e-bikes, the Hauler’s range will decrease as its payload increases. As such, we recommend doing your own range test when you have the bike loaded up with whatever you plan to carry around.

We were also pleased to note that Heybike included a 4-amp fast charger with the bike. A second charger would have made refilling both batteries on the dual battery version easier, but the single charger is quick; the main battery can be recharged in about four and a half hours, while the secondary unit can be topped up in a little over 3 hours.

Another note about the batteries: both had on/off switches that we sometimes needed to turn off to deactivate the bike’s light system. The main battery also has a USB port that can be used to recharge a phone or other USB-powered devices.

We tested the Hauler’s climbing ability in our standard Hill Test using the method described in the graphic above. Its throttle and PAS 5 pedal test results are included.

Again, when compared to similar cargo e-bikes we’ve tested, the Hauler came in somewhat behind the category average. The long-tail cargo category averages 1:19 on throttle power and 1:09 using the maximum level of pedal assist, making Heybike’s cargo carrier 7-10 seconds behind.

As with the Hauler’s Range Test results, weight seemed to be the biggest factor affecting its performance. The Hauler’s 750W motor peaks at a substantial 1400W and produces up to 80 Newton meters (Nm) of torque—both of which are on par with what we’d expect.

To evaluate the bike’s performance when carrying cargo, I personally tested it with a 55-lb sandbag at our secondary location called Pilot Hill. This hill is closer to our office than Hell Hole, and though it is slightly less extreme, we still would not want to pedal up without help from a motor.

With no cargo, I climbed the hill on throttle power in 1:09 and pedaled to the top in 1:07. The extra weight of the sandbag slowed my times to 1:29 and 1:16, reducing the Hauler’s climbing speed by about 20 seconds or 29 percent when throttling and 9 seconds or 13 percent when pedaling.

Our testing proved that the Hauler has plenty of power to move cargo or passenger weight, and it gives riders the option of throttling or pedaling over steep hills. Pedaling will clearly speed up the process, but regardless, the bike proved plenty capable of its purpose.

With its set of RSX hydraulic disc brakes, including 2-piston calipers and 180mm front and rear rotors, we determined the Heybike Hauler’s average stopping distance to be 20’ 6” using the method described above.

When considering e-bikes of all categories, the Hauler performed well; we consider any result in the neighborhood of 20’ to be extremely impressive. In our experience, cargo bikes of all varieties are typically outfitted with effective brakes. At the time of writing, those e-bikes average 19’6” in this test.

The Hauler’s results were a foot beyond the current category average, though again, its weight likely impacted its performance. The bikes used for comparison averaged 86 lbs, making Heybike’s model 16 lbs heavier than average. As such, its brake system had to work harder to slow the bike down.

Regardless of the Hauler’s test results, I found that the brakes felt and performed great. The tires could squeal loudly when stopping quickly, but otherwise, the brakes kept my speed controlled even when descending Pilot Hill with the 55-lb sandbag, and the Hauler did not deviate from its line of travel when coming to a stop.

Overall, its braking felt appropriately safe and controlled, so we gave the Hauler two thumbs up in this test.

Ride quality encompasses many factors that influence how a bike feels to ride. We break it down into a myriad of elements, including sizing/fit, adjustability, ride comfort, handling, motor engagement, user interface, etc. We tested the Hauler with and without cargo weight on its rack to evaluate its ride quality.

Beginning with sizing and fit, I found the Hauler to be generally sized well. Its single frame size is intended for riders between 5’3” and 6’6”. To accommodate such a wide height range, it features an adjustable stem paired with 790mm BMX-style riser handlebars, allowing riders to customize the handlebar height and reach precisely.

Additionally, the seatpost offers eight total inches of saddle height adjustment, though we found that the included cargo basket prevented the saddle from reaching its lowest position when installed. The basket also prevented us from removing the second battery, so we needed to remove the basket or charge the battery on the bike.

In terms of comfort, the Hauler’s contact points and suspension worked well. I mentioned the thick, remarkably supportive saddle, but I also appreciated the ergonomic faux leather grips. The front suspension successfully softened bumps when riding, though its effect on the bike’s handling was not always positive.

When carrying cargo, I experienced a “loose” or “divey” sensation when cornering that seemed to be a combination of frame flex and the fork’s 70 mm of travel. I preferred the bike’s feel with the suspension locked out, but the frame flex issue was still present; we encourage Heybike to stiffen the frame in the future to improve the overall ride feel.

Additionally, I noticed that one of the Hauler’s two kickstands (a traditional chainstay-mounted single-leg and a dual-leg center stand) would often drag when cornering. We recommend that the brand source a lower-profile center stand to avoid this.

We also feel that some small changes to the bike’s geometry would be beneficial to its overall handling. By slackening the head tube angle, the ride would feel more stable, and its steering would be more relaxed. This change would also bring the bike’s reach to a more comfortable starting place.

Another more significant point of critique centers around the Hauler’s motor engagement, which was inconsistent throughout our testing. At times, the motor engaged quickly, while at other times, it required multiple full rotations of the cranks before the pedal assist ramped up. Especially when carrying cargo, we prefer faster engagement.

On a positive note, we appreciated the motor’s power and the overall ease of pedaling as a result of its cadence sensor. E-bikes with this type of sensor do not require much effort; as long as the cranks are turning, the motor output remains consistent. As such, moving heavy loads of cargo requires roughly the same effort as riding with nothing on the rack.

Additionally, while I mentioned some functions of the Heybike app, I have not covered its full scope. In addition to allowing users to customize the bike’s maximum speed and the limits of each PAS setting, it allows users to track ride data, access turn-by-turn navigation using Apple or Google Maps, and check the current battery charge percentage.

One final point of critique concerns the bike’s cockpit layout, which feels cramped as a side effect of its handlebars. Some of its modules generally seemed oversized and difficult to reach.

We moved the position of the shifter and throttle lever to avoid accidentally triggering the throttle when shifting, but then its operation became somewhat awkward. There was no other option considering the large (but appreciated) module on the left handlebar for the lights, turn signals, and electronic horn.

In terms of accessories, Heybike offers a handrail attachment for child passengers and a handful of additional basket and rack options (at the time of writing). We tested the Thule Yepp Maxi child seat, which locked into place securely on the Hauler’s cargo rack, but at least now, Heybike does not sell seating options.

Overall, the Hauler’s ride quality was a blend of positive and negative elements. We appreciated its comfort and overall pedal experience, but there were many areas with room for improvement. Generally, this was not unexpected, as it is not uncommon with e-bikes attempting to offer plentiful features while keeping a low price.

Broadly speaking, the Heybike Hauler proved to be a capable e-bike with some expected sacrifices balancing out its affordability. Generally, the bike performed well for its specs and price in our series of standardized tests, it was fun, and we believe it offers many features that consumers will appreciate.

In addition to a generally comfortable ride, an impressive degree of customization through the Heybike app, and appreciated safety features such as front and rear turn signals, we were pleased to note that it offers a dual-battery setup at an approachable price.

Ultimately, Heybike has a good start with the Hauler, but we identified a number of areas with room for improvement. In the future, we recommend that the brand stiffen the bike’s frame and adjust its geometry for better handling. We also encourage Heybike to improve the motor engagement and correct the dragging we encountered with the center stand.

We hope to have the opportunity to take a second look at the Hauler once these improvements are made. As it is, the bike is a promising budget cargo e-bike that could be significantly better once a few elements are dialed in.

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 Heybike Hauler down in our comments section.