Himiway Rambler Premium Review, 2024

Using the process described in the graphic above, we evaluated Himiway’s advertisements, which state that the Rambler can achieve a range of up to 55 miles. With its 500W motor and 720 watt-hour (Wh) battery, the bike performed as expected, and matched its advertised range!

When testing the bike in PAS 5 and PAS 1, we measured a high- and low-end bracket of 42.9 to 55.9 miles on a single charge. Many factors affect an e-bike’s range, including terrain, rider weight, weather, and more – but most riders should expect to fall somewhere between these numbers depending on which PAS setting they use.

We were pleased to be able to meet (and slightly exceed) Himiway’s claimed range, and also happy to note that the Rambler’s performance measured up well when compared to similar e-bikes we tested previously. Aside from a few anomalies (e-bikes that performed far beyond expectations), the Rambler’s results were on the high end of the “normal” or standard range. The Rambler’s 720 Wh battery was also on the larger side when compared to similar e-bikes, so its placement in the rankings makes sense.

Based on the bike’s motor and battery specs – as well as the speeds measured in our Speed Test section above – we estimated results far below what we achieved. The theoretical maximum time for our PAS 5 test was roughly an hour and a half, but we were on the bike for nearly an additional hour. We estimated a result in the neighborhood of 35 miles, but exceeded that by a significant margin.

Of course, range results will vary with the Rambler’s torque sensor. Riders who pedal more conservatively will use less power and could potentially exceed our results, while those who prefer a more spirited pace will likely have the opposite experience.

We often measure a much greater difference between our max-assist and min-assist test results, but the Rambler Premium’s range bracket was relatively narrow, with just 13 miles between PAS 1 and PAS 5.

Considering the results of our Speed Test, where PAS 1 provided a substantial amount of motor power allowing for relatively fast travel, this is appropriate. The motor’s base level of output requires a larger amount of energy than we have measured on similar commuter/cruiser e-bikes – but in most cases, these do not come equipped with such powerful motors.

Based on our results from this test, we aren’t sure there is much incentive to use a low PAS setting when traveling longer distances – but we’re not sure there is much incentive to use a high PAS setting either. The roughly 43-to-56-mile range is substantial and should cover most daily commutes or a number of shorter leisure rides, and the bike provides a significant amount of power in every setting to make the experience easy and enjoyable.

Personally, I’d likely spend most of my time riding in PAS 3 or 4 to slightly extend the bike’s range, only increasing my assist level when approaching steep hills where I needed the additional motor output in PAS 5.

At Hell Hole Trail, the power of the Himiway Rambler Premium’s mid-drive motor was put on display. The bike climbed our test hill confidently using both its throttle and its max-assist modes. We measured a time of 1 minute and 31 seconds on throttle, with an average speed of 11.9 miles per hour. When pedaling in PAS 5, our results were similar, with a slightly slower 1 minute and 38 seconds and an average of 11.1 mph.

We are rather limited in terms of comparison; our pool of similar e-bikes with 500W mid-drive motors is small. When compared with the handful of other models we have data for, the Rambler’s throttle performance was great, while its pedaling performance was relatively average – but this means that the bike was specced appropriately! The bike’s powerful motor fulfilled its purpose, successfully conquered a challenging task, and allowed us to cruise uphill comfortably.

As established previously in this Himiway Rambler Premium review, the bike’s Bafang M600 mid-drive is built for demanding jobs, so we expected nothing less. With a theoretical peak output of 864 watts (based on the controller voltage and amperage) and 120 newton-meters (Nm) of torque, it has an impressive amount of power where it counts. These two ratings are especially relevant when approaching hills, and they are specifically what allowed our test to go so well.

The Rambler Premium proved that it has the grit to conquer nearly any challenging hill its rider may encounter. With an effective throttle and a powerful pedal assist system, it gives its user options when approaching such climbs; the motor can do all of the work if desired, but if pedaling is preferred, it will likely not require much effort.

When evaluating the Rambler Premium’s Tektro E-350 hydraulic disc brakes, we noted that they served their purpose and brought us safely to a stop, but we feel there is room for improvement.

After performing our test three times using the process described above, we calculated an average stopping distance of 23 feet, 11 inches for the Rambler Premium. This is exactly two feet beyond our current running average for the commuter and cruiser-style e-bike we’ve tested previously, and while that difference is relatively small in the real world, the overall 24-foot mark is a significant amount of distance that has the potential to impact rider safety. We think the current setup is workable as long as riders know to give themselves more room, but we also understand that some unexpected situations do not allow for advance planning.

We have tested a myriad of e-bikes with the Tektro E-350 system, and have measured both great results and others (like this) that were somewhat less ideal. For this reason, we’d like to see the Rambler equipped with a more consistent braking system – perhaps one with four-piston calipers and larger rotors – to improve its stopping distance and increase its safety factor.

Our interpretation of the Rambler Premium’s data was reinforced by feel; during my testing of the bike, I noted a longer-than-usual stopping distance. In most cases this was not a problem, especially once I knew to expect it.

I must give credit where it is due; the Rambler remained quite stable during braking due to the width of its Innova street tires. The rear wheel had a tendency to lock up when applying hard pressure to the brake levers, but the bike’s line of travel remained straight, so this was completely acceptable.

With a Trama suspension fork with 80 mm of travel, a Selle Royal saddle with thick cushioning, and Innova 27.5”x2.4” tires, most of the bumps that I encountered were absorbed appropriately. I thoroughly enjoyed the feel of the saddle, the ergonomic faux leather grips, and the overall hand placement as determined by the swept-back, cruiser-style handlebars.

I found the bike’s relatively long reach and resulting slightly-forward-leaning riding position to be different than I expected, and I would have appreciated the ability to adjust those elements of the ride.. The bike is available in just a single frame size with height accommodation from 5’-2” to 6’-4”, so those on the extreme ends of the spectrum may experience a less precise fit. To remedy this, we’d prefer to see an adjustable stem on the Rambler instead of the standard-style, non-adjustable stem currently included.

That said, the Rambler’s handling was a joy! The bike cornered well and had a responsive and nimble feel overall.

In previous sections, I have described the motor’s performance but not its feel; this was certainly another highlight of the Rambler. The bike’s torque sensor was beautifully responsive, allowing the motor to adapt instantaneously to changes in my pedaling. We often state that e-bikes can provide the sense of superhuman strength, and with its analog bike feel and powerful motor, this was decidedly the case here.

With its great ride feel, stylish looks, and easygoing personality, we found a lot to enjoy about the Himiway Rambler Premium. In our experience, it’s a commuter e-bike for those who need to get to work quickly without getting stressed out about it! We found it tough to feel anything but relaxed when riding the bike; even pedaling hard to hit the bike’s top speed felt breezy and carefree.

The Rambler proved to be a fun e-bike to test, though we did find a few points of critique. The bike’s brakes stopped in what we consider a reasonable distance, but we’d like to see an upgraded system for more consistent performance. And while we enjoyed the speed of the throttle, we’d prefer for it to be limited to 20 mph per the standard Class 2 requirements.

Otherwise, the Rambler performed well in all other areas of our testing, with solid speed distribution, great range, and admirable hill climbing ability. We enjoyed its comfort level, its motor power and responsiveness, and its leisurely feel; the Rambler Premium proved to be a capable commuter and just a fun e-bike to ride in general.

We think those seeking a relaxing yet spirited experience will find satisfaction with the Rambler. Riding the bike is a great way to start and end your work day, but also a thoroughly enjoyable way to take in the scenery on the weekends.

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions down in our comments section or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Himiway Rambler.