Retrospec Beaumont Rev+ Review | Classic Comfort & Style

An important consideration when buying an e-bike is the distance it can travel before needing to be recharged. We measure every bike’s real-world mileage from a single charge using the process explained above. Our test riders covered 35.5 and 72.4 miles with the Beaumont Rev+ using its highest and lowest assist levels, respectively.

A group of similar cruiser/commuter hybrid e-bikes we’ve tested traveled roughly 32 and 66 miles in their testing, placing the Beaumont slightly to moderately above average in its range capabilities.

This is particularly impressive when considering that Retrospec’s city cruiser carries a significantly smaller than average battery. Its 500W power pack has 138 fewer watt-hours (Wh) of capacity compared to the 638 Wh average among similar models from our comparison group.

The Beaumont Rev+ made up the difference (and then some) in energy efficiency. By dividing battery capacity by mileage, we can determine the watt-hours used per mile (Wh/mi) by each bike. While our comparison group averaged 10 and 20.3 Wh/mi, Retrospec’s city cruiser averaged just 6.9 and 14.1 Wh/mi. Despite having a smaller battery, this efficiency allowed it to exceed the performance of many similar models.

Considering that daily commuters often cover around 20 miles round-trip and that many leisure riders travel shorter distances, the Beaumont Rev+ should work well for a variety of uses.

Based on our testing, we’re happy to report that those relying on the maximum level of pedal assistance may get a couple of rides before needing to recharge. Owners using lower power levels should expect a single charge to last many trips! Users charging a fully depleted battery should plan for around 5 hours to reach 100%.

In our Hill Test, the Beaumont Rev+ straddled the performance of its competition. Using the process above, our test rider, Justin, recorded a throttle time and average speed of 2:12 at 13.7 mph. Using its highest pedal assist level, Turbo, the bike scored 1:58 at 15.4 mph on average. Similar models averaged 2:07 and 2:05, respectively.

The Beaumont’s motor produces 770W of peak power and 65 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. Our comparison group averages 934W of peak power and the same 65 Nm of torque, so Retrospec’s motor is average to slightly below average in motor output.

Despite the difference, we can say that the bike’s climbing performance is roughly average; in both cases, its results were within the margin of error for this test. This means that it is a competent climber, though the experience does require a light to moderate level of effort from the rider.

I followed up Justin’s formal Hill Test with a similar set of throttle and max-assist runs at Pilot Hill, our secondary test location nearer to the Electric Bike Report office. There, I was impressed with the motor’s ability to confidently and steadily power me to the top. On throttle, it felt steady and effortless. When pedaling, it was active but strong and low-effort.

The bottom line, based on our experience, is that the Beaumont Rev+ should work well for riders in flat or hilly terrain, and riders should expect to have the option of throttling or pedaling uphill. Pedaling, however, will yield the fastest results.

Continuing its trend of solid performance, the Retrospec Beaumont Rev+ also scored well in our Brake Test. Using the method above, we measured its braking performance; the bike’s average stopping distance was 21’4”.

Similar models, including many of the best cruiser e-bikes we’ve tested, averaged 21’11”. The Beaumont Rev+ placed somewhat above average, though its results are likely within the margin of error for this test.

These results line up well with the Beaumont’s specs; its weight, tires, and brake system are all relatively average for its style. Retrospec smartly equipped the bike with Tektro’s HD-E3520 hydraulic brake system—a familiar, reliable, and easily serviceable 2-piston setup using 180mm front and rear rotors.

In my personal opinion, the brakes felt a bit better than I expected based on the numbers alone. General braking felt strong and fast without being jarring or overly aggressive, and the brakes easily kept my speed in check when cruising downhill. The tired could skid and squeal under hard braking, but not excessively.

Overall, the Beaumont Rev+ did great in this department, proving itself safe and effective at coming to a stop.

With some e-bike models, the subject of ride quality can be complicated. The Retrospec Beaumont Rev+, however, keeps things relatively simple and straightforward. We’ll explore the details of how the bike feels to ride in this section of our review.

Starting with sizing, fit, and adjustability, Retrospec offers the bike in a single step-thru frame size designed to accommodate those between 5’3” and 6’4”. Thanks to its multiple adjustment points (seatpost, threaded/quill stem, and Dutch-style handlebars), its comfort and upright riding position can be tailored to fit most riders.

As a 5’11” rider, I found an ergonomic fit with the saddle raised for full leg extension and the stem/handlebars set forward and somewhat low. Cruising felt enjoyable and relaxed, and the overall fit and feel of the bike seemed broadly approachable for most riders.

Steering the bike felt relaxed and easy, and the bike handled predictably and crisply. The 2.4”-wide street tires gave the ride a stable and confidence-inspiring feel, while also providing some much appreciated cushioning; the bike’s rigid steel fork feels sturdy when going into turns, but transfers some bumps to the handlebars.

I found the bike’s motor power to be well-matched to its style. High assist levels felt lively and responsive, while low levels felt gentle and natural. At all times, the Beaumont Rev+ was engaging and controlled.

The user interface was easy to grasp, with four color-coded assist levels and a clean, well-organized display. Aside from the Beaumont’s small control panel and throttle lever, the only controls are the over-the-bar thumb shifter and the brake levers. These should be relatively familiar to riders who have used analog bikes previously.

Retrospec equipped the Beaumont Rev+ with daily-use essentials, including integrated lights, fenders, a cargo rack, and a chain guard. These are likely to be appreciated by early morning commuters and late evening leisure travelers, adding both utility and safety.

My only point of critique is the bike’s 7-speed Shimano Tourney drivetrain. While this model is not unexpected on an entry-level, budget-tier e-bike, I had hoped the Beaumont Rev+ would feature a more crisp and sturdy derailleur—especially considering its price between $1,500 and $2k.

That aside, I liked the bike’s design and overall personality. Its down-tube-integrated battery looks clean and sleek, while the tan-wall tires complement the Beaumont Rev+’s four retro-themed colorways.

Overall, the e-bike is comfortable, responsive, capable, and good-looking, which is a winning combination for a cruiser-commuter hybrid.

I always look forward to testing Retrospec’s e-bikes, as they provide consistently good performance, looks, and ride feel. In my experience, many bikes out there get two of those things right, but it’s not every day that I see all three to come together as well as they do in the Beaumont Rev+.

As shown by our testing, the bike is strong in all areas. It has a responsive, capable motor with four well-balanced and meaningful power levels. The Beaumont makes remarkably efficient use of its battery to deliver impressive range. It’s a steady, reliable hill climber. And finally, the Beaumont Rev+ has a trusty and safe brake system.

On top of that foundation, the bike presents an uncomplicated, user-friendly interface, a largely adjustable fit, and an ergonomic, comfortable ride.

Our only real point of critique is the Beamont Rev+’s entry-level drivetrain, which functioned well in our testing, but is somewhat out of place given the bike’s price. Otherwise, we appreciated that the bike included useful, commuter-friendly features and a classic-yet-contemporary design with a healthy dose of personality.

The bottom line is that the Retrospec Beaumont Rev+ makes an excellent starting point for new riders and those who want a bike that feels controlled, yet ready to handle the demands of daily use. This cruiser-commuter hybrid is fun, friendly, and familiar—making it well-suited for regular trips to work, the corner store, or the park.

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 Retrospec Beaumont Rev+ down in our comments section.