Heybike Mars 3.0 Review | A Fast, Far-Out, Full-Sus Folder

As you might expect, the goal of our Range Test is to determine how far a bike can travel on a single charge of its battery. The process we use for this test is explained in the graphic above, along with the Heybike Mars 3.0’s results.

As a point of clarification, we expect the bike to be capable of reaching Heybike’s advertised range of 65 miles. Our team is regularly shuffling bikes between riders, and in this case, we inadvertently set the Mars to its Class 3 mode before the final 9-mile leg of our Eco mode range test. This increased our test rider’s speed and required more power than when it was limited to 20 mph for earlier portions of the test.

The Mars 3.0 performed very well, with minimum and maximum results that closely matched the averages of a pool of similar models, which include the best folding e-bikes we’ve tested. Those bikes averaged 59.8 miles in their low-power tests and 29.1 miles in their max-PAS tests.

It’s worth noting that, on average, the pool of e-bikes used for comparison had larger batteries. While their power packs averaged 667 watt-hours (Wh), the Mars 3.0 was equipped with a 624 Wh battery, which puts its average performance in a different perspective, making it more impressive overall.

Looking closer at its test scores, we can divide its battery capacity in watt-hours by its mileage in each test to find the number of watt-hours used per mile (Wh/mi).

The bike’s test results line up well with the efficiency of its motor as shown by this approach; the Mars 3.0 used 10.2 and 18.2 Wh/mi in its low and high-power tests, respectively, while similar models used 11.2 and 22.9 Wh/mi. By using fewer watt-hours per mile, the bike was able to travel as far as (or slightly farther than) similar models with larger batteries.

Our test riders encountered some difficulties relating to the bike’s display during this test. The battery readout fluctuated significantly in response to the motor’s instantaneous demands. This made it difficult to determine the remaining charge in the battery; we encourage Heybike to adjust the display’s programming to convey its charge level more accurately and reliably.

Otherwise, considering the versatility of folding e-bikes, the results of this test demonstrate that the Mars 3.0 is well-equipped for commuting, running errands, exploring campgrounds, riding on multi-use trails, and more.

A final note: The Mars ships with a standard 2-amp charger that should take approximately 6.5 hours to charge a fully drained battery.

We tested the Mars 3.0’s ability to climb hills using the method explained above, and found that it was capable when using both its throttle and its highest level of pedal assistance. The bike’s times were nearly identical with both approaches; its 1:53 result in the throttle test differed from its 1:53 pedal result by just two seconds.

We moved our Hill Test to the Devil’s Backbone within only a couple of months of this test; as such, we have not tested a large number of similar models at the new location.

In comparison to a small group of similar models (shown in the graphic above), which averaged 1:56 in the throttle test and 1:57 when pedaling, the Mars 3.0’s performance was slightly above average.

When only compared with other folding e-bikes with 750W motors, however, it was somewhat slower; the two bikes with more comparable specs averaged 1:44 and 1:54, respectively, making the Mars average to slightly below-average in comparison.

An e-bike’s peak power in watts (W) and torque in Newton meters (Nm) are major factors influencing its climbing ability.

Heybike states that the Mars 3.0’s 750W motor peaks at an impressive 1,400W and produces 95 Nm of torque, while the other models with 750W motors used for comparison averaged a peak of 1,180W and 80 Nm of torque.

Clearly, the Mars 3.0 is powerful enough to conquer hills that riders on analog bikes or less-powerful e-bikes might struggle to climb. Considering its relatively average weight of 72 lbs (other bikes weighed 70 lbs) and above-average motor power, however, we anticipated that its results would be noticeably faster than those of its competitors.

Still, the bike performed well in my personal testing; its throttle felt powerful and confident, and my experience when pedaling was relaxed and low-effort. With that in mind, the Mars passed our test with results that reflect its capabilities; it’s able to give riders the option to throttle or pedal over intimidating hills with relative ease.

The Mars 3.0 is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes (one of this model’s major upgrades over the last version of the bike, the Heybike Mars 2.0) with 2-piston calipers and 180mm rotors. We tested this brake system using the method above, and averaged our three test results for a final score of 20’8”.

A relatively large pool of similar (and similarly-equipped) folding e-bikes averaged a stopping distance of 19’11” in this test. This group included a couple of overachievers that exceeded the performance of nearly all e-bikes we’ve tested, so with those removed from our dataset, the folding category average increased slightly to 20’8”, matching the Mars 3.0.

Some elements of the bike’s unbranded brake system appear similar to those of other models we’ve tested from Tektro, one of the most prominent manufacturers of bicycle and e-bike brakes. If the system is indeed made by such a reputable company, its great performance makes sense.

It’s worth noting that the Mars’s rotors are somewhat thicker than average, which likely contributed to the brake system’s effectiveness. Heybike advertises the rotors as 2mm thick (we measured 1.9mm) instead of the more common 1.8mm thickness, which would make them slightly better at dispersing heat and able to stop the bike faster.

I found the brakes’ performance to be quite powerful and effective in my testing; they brought the bike to a halt quickly and somewhat aggressively, so I expected it to perform well in this test. I was glad to be correct!

Our braking results show that the Mars is well-equipped with safe and capable brakes, so we gladly give the bike our stamp of approval in this test.

In this section, I’ll examine many of the elements that contribute to how the Mars 3.0 feels to ride. Overall, the bike felt comfortable and well-equipped; however, there were a handful of areas that could be improved.

In terms of sizing and fit, Heybike offers a single step-over frame size for riders between 4’11” and 6’2”. Our contact at the company shared that, more specifically, it is intended for those with inseams between 23.6 and 31.5 inches.

At 5’11” (and with a roughly 31” inseam), I am on the high end of the recommended height range. I rode with the saddle at its tallest position (the seatpost offers an 8.5” height range) and its handlebars raised to roughly half of their 5.5” range of adjustment.

I found the bike comfortable to ride and easy to pedal, though the seatpost did not allow me to get full leg extension when pedaling; my knees were noticeably bent.

I typically prefer a higher saddle, but I found the motor powerful enough and the PAS sensitive enough to compensate for any lack of pedal efficiency. The motor dished out a lot of power with relatively light pressure applied to the pedals, so I experienced no discomfort in my knees.

The bike’s reach is long, so my arms were fully outstretched without my elbows being locked. This follows the style of many similar folding e-bikes we’ve reviewed, so the Mars does nothing out of the norm, but we prefer the more relaxed positioning of e-bikes like the Lectric XP4, which uses a 0-degree stem (in line with the bike’s head tube) to bring the handlebars closer to the rider, and we encourage Heybike to do the same in the future.

A highlight of the Mars 3.0 is its full suspension! The bike’s 65mm suspension fork takes care of most of the cushioning on the front end, while its rear shock, which offers 30mm of stroke, absorbs bumps beneath the rider. In addition to paved streets and paths, I tested the bike on dirt and gravel roads, and found its ride smooth and comfortable in all cases.

Its handling was expectedly quick and nimble, thanks to the bike’s 20” wheels and 630mm handlebars. Folding e-bikes with a similar size and relatively narrow handlebars can sometimes be described as twitchy in their steering, but the Mars 3.0’s weight and sturdy frame helped to balance this out.

The bike’s 4” tires are worth mentioning. Most folding e-bikes we’ve tested recently came equipped with narrower 3” tires, which we like, but the Mars’s wider tires offer more stability, comfort, and traction on loose terrain. They do add some weight, but we found them a nice complement to the bike’s full suspension.

Noise can be bothersome for some riders, so I want to mention that the bike could be somewhat loud at times. The motor made a moderate but noticeable (and not unusual) hum. The rear suspension on our test bike was a little creaky, but the sound lessened with use and did not affect performance.

One aspect of the bike that we didn’t like was the requirement for a key to be inserted into the battery while riding. The key is secured in place, so it is unlikely that it would fall out while riding, but we found it both somewhat inconvenient and unnecessary, considering that the Mars 3.0’s display requires either a 4-digit PIN or keycard to activate the bike.

Aside from the aforementioned battery readout inconsistencies, I was a big fan of the Mars 3.0’s display! Its size, overall design, and color-coded pedal assist levels made it a big step up from the basic black-and-white screens we’ve tested on most previous models from Heybike. The security PIN/keycard requirements are also a welcome bonus, not commonly found on e-bikes in this price range.

I mentioned previously that the bike’s speeds could be customized through the Heybike mobile app. The app, another relatively uncommon feature on similarly priced folding e-bikes, also offers ride data tracking and syncs with Apple Maps or Google Maps for navigation.

Many other customization settings can be accessed through the bike’s display. The bike’s settings menu offers options for the number of assist settings, the sensitivity of the torque sensor, the acceleration force of the motor, and many others. It’s complex but robust and relatively easy to read and understand.

The Mars 3.0 is well equipped with a cargo rack that can carry up to 100 lbs, as well as fenders, turn signals, and an electronic horn. It’s also compatible with a variety of accessories, including panniers, a cargo basket, etc. Our contact at Heybike also shared that more unique accessories, such as a golf bag carrier and surfboard rack, are currently in development.

As a folding e-bike, the Mars is relatively average in how it compacts. At 72 lbs, including its 9-lb battery, it is on the heavier side, but no more so than many similar models on the market. The hinge on our test bike was somewhat stiff, but otherwise, it functioned well. The bike’s folded dimensions measured roughly 40”L x 21”W x 32.5”H.

All in all, I consider the Mars 3.0’s ride quality to be very solid for its price; the bike is comfortable, well-equipped with a great range of specs and features, and most importantly, fun and easy to ride.

One of the best parts of my job as an e-bike reviewer is seeing brands evolve. In my previous experiences with Heybike products, the brand had a solid foundation and a clear aim, but it wasn’t always the most successful in its execution. The bikes were often loaded with appealing features but lacked some refinement.

To me, the Mars 3.0 marks a significant leap forward for Heybike; it’s a generally well-put-together e-bike that offers an excellent balance between value and performance. It’s also one of the best-feeling Heybike models to ride that we’ve tested yet.

When it comes to the basics, the bike is speedy, powerful, comfortable, and adaptable. In our series of performance tests, it showed a good distribution of speeds across its pedal assist system, along with great range, reliable stopping power, and solid climbing ability.

The bike’s full suspension and ability to reach speeds in excess of 28 mph will likely be appealing to thrill-seeking, adventurous riders, while its cargo rack and folding frame add versatility and utility to how and where it can be used. The bike’s price point of around $1,300 makes it a great purchase for a first e-bike or an addition to the family’s fleet.

Of course, the good must also be balanced with critique. We identified a few key (pun intended) areas with room for improvement, including the requirement for a key to stay in the battery while riding, the accuracy of the battery charge indicator on the display, and the fact that increasing the PAS speed can also raise throttle speed above legal limits.

Otherwise, we’re happy to recommend the Mars 3.0 to those who enjoy a bike with a peppy feel and the ability to reach high speeds. It would be a great choice for budget-conscious shoppers who enjoy a connected and customizable experience through the Heybike app.

And in terms of real-world use, we consider it suitable for daily commuting or leisure riding, and we feel it would be a great travel companion for those seeking a powerful, portable folding e-bike for road trips, camping trips, and other adventures!

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 Mars 3.0 down in our comments section.