REVIEWS & INFORMATION

Stay Safe on Your Ebike

March 17th 2024

Riding an electric bike, or ebike, can be a thrilling experience, but safety should always be your top priority. After all, you want to enjoy the ride without any unplanned detours to the emergency room. Here’s a lighthearted yet essential guide on how to stay safe while cruising on your ebike:

What NOT to do:

1. Don’t be a speed demon: Sure, your ebike can make you feel like the Flash, but resist the urge to channel your inner speed racer, especially in crowded areas. Zooming around like you’re in a Grand Prix won’t earn you a trophy; it might just land you in a fender bender.
2. Don’t be a stuntman (or woman): Leave the daredevil stunts to the professionals. Wheelies, jumps, and curb-hopping might look cool in a YouTube montage, but attempting them on your ebike could lead to an unplanned flying lesson – without the parachute.
3. Don’t forget the rules of the road: Yes, you have the power of electricity propelling you forward, but that doesn’t exempt you from obeying traffic signals and signs. Remember, red means stop, not “eh, I’ll just zip through.”

What TO do:

1. Gear up like a pro: Helmet? Check. Reflective clothing? Check. Elbow and knee pads? Check, check. Dressing like a futuristic knight might not win you any fashion awards, but it will keep you protected in case of a tumble.
2. Stay alert: Keep your eyes peeled for potholes, pedestrians, and pesky parked cars. The last thing you want is to turn your ebike ride into a game of dodgeball with unexpected obstacles.
3. Mind your battery life: Running out of juice mid-ride can be a real buzzkill. Keep an eye on your battery level and plan your route accordingly. You don’t want to end up stranded in the middle of nowhere with nothing but your helmet to shield you from the elements.
4. Practice, practice, practice: Familiarize yourself with your ebike before hitting the streets like a pro. Get comfortable with its speed, handling, and braking so you can navigate with ease and grace.

What to wear:

1. Helmet: This is non-negotiable. Your brain is priceless, so protect it like the precious cargo it is.
2. Bright clothing: Channel your inner highlighter and deck yourself out in vibrant colors. The goal is to be seen, not blend into the background like a stealthy ninja.
3. Closed-toe shoes: Leave the flip-flops at home; you’re not at the beach. Opt for sturdy, closed-toe shoes to keep your feet safe and secure on the pedals.

Remember, safety first, fun second (but a very close second). So, suit up, saddle up, and enjoy the ride on your trusty ebike – just don’t forget to follow these tips, or you might end up with a tale to tell that’s more cautionary than comedic.

Mountain Ebikes

March 1st 2024

Discovering the peak of performance in mountain e-bikes is an exhilarating journey, with a range of options to explore. Let’s delve into some notable choices that have left a mark on the trail.

Specialized Turbo Levo: At the forefront, we find the Specialized Turbo Levo, celebrated for its responsive handling and seamless integration of motor and battery components. A stalwart in the cycling world, Specialized’s reputation precedes its name.

Trek Powerfly: Moving along the trail, the Trek Powerfly series emerges as a beacon of quality, boasting not only a well-established brand but also exceptional build quality, performance, and the utilization of premium components.

Haibike XDURO NDURO series: Venturing into German engineering, the Haibike XDURO NDURO series beckons with high-performance design tailored for challenging off-road terrains, showcasing the brand’s commitment to excellence.

Giant Trance E+: On the global stage, Giant stands tall, and its Trance E+ series is renowned for its balanced handling and an efficient motor that propels riders to new heights of trail-riding satisfaction.

Santa Cruz Heckler: The trail doesn’t end there; Santa Cruz, renowned for top-tier traditional mountain bikes, introduces the Heckler to the e-bike arena. Featuring a VPP suspension system and robust components, it seamlessly blends tradition with innovation.

To round out our exploration, we introduce a more budget-friendly option, the Engwe E26. However, it’s essential to recognize that Engwe, while perhaps not as widely known, brings its own unique strengths to the table. When evaluating the Engwe E26 or any e-bike, consider the following factors:

Motor and Power: In the heart of every e-bike lies the motor. Opting for a mid-drive motor enhances weight distribution and performance on challenging terrains. Consider the motor’s wattage, torque, and adaptability to diverse landscapes.

Battery Capacity: A higher-capacity battery means extended rides. Tailor your choice to your typical riding distance and opt for lithium-ion batteries for durability and energy efficiency.

Frame and Suspension: The foundation of an e-bike, a sturdy frame, and effective suspension are imperative for off-road adventures. Full-suspension eMTBs elevate comfort and control on rough trails.

Tires and Brakes: Navigate trails with confidence by opting for wide, knobby tires for superior traction and hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power.

Gearing System: A reliable gearing system is your ally on varied terrains. Look for quality derailleurs and a broad range of gears to conquer any trail.

Weight and Build: Balancing weight and durability is key. While lighter bikes are more manageable, robust components ensure resilience on rugged terrains.

Additional Features: Explore eMTBs with integrated lights, digital displays, and smart connectivity based on your preferences and needs.

While the Engwe E26 may cater to a more budget-friendly audience, evaluating its specifications and user feedback against your priorities is crucial. Test-riding or perusing recent reviews can provide invaluable insights into its performance and alignment with your preferences.

Engwe Electric Bike L20 & L20SE Review:

A Commuter’s Dream with Spanish Ebike Laws Insight

FEBRUARY 26th 2024

Introduction:
I recently had the opportunity to test ride the Engwe Electric Bike L20 and L20SE. I must say, they are impressive additions to the e-bike market. As a commuter seeking a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation, these models offer a compelling mix of features.

Engwe Electric Bike L20 & L20SE Overview:
The Engwe L20 and L20SE models share a robust frame. A foldable design (L20se), and a powerful electric motor that makes commuting a breeze. The 20-inch fat tires provide stability and comfort, making them suitable for various terrains. The L20SE and it’s 36v battery will offer an extended range for longer rides. While the L20 has more battery capacity of 48v to help with those hill climbs & faster speeds.

Key Features:

1. Powerful Motor: Both models boast a reliable motor that assists riders in conquering hills and covering distances effortlessly.
2. Foldable Design: The L20se with foldable frame ensures easy storage in tight spaces. Making it an ideal choice for urban commuters with limited storage options.
3. Long-lasting Battery: The battery life on both models is commendable.
4. Comfortable Ride: The fat tires and ergonomic design contribute to a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing shocks from uneven surfaces.

Spanish Ebike Laws Overview:
Understanding the legal aspects of e-bike usage is crucial to ensure a safe and compliant riding experience in Spain.

1. Classification: In Spain, electric bikes are classified into three categories based on their maximum assisted speed and power output. The Engwe L20 and L20SE, with their moderate power, fall within the legal limits for e-bikes.
2. Maximum Speed: E-bikes in Spain are typically limited to a maximum assisted speed of 25 km/h. Both Engwe models adhere to this standard, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
3. If the motor is no more than 250w, you do not need a specific license to operate them. This makes electric bikes a convenient and accessible option for a wide range of users.
4. Age Restriction: Riders must be at least 14 years old to operate an e-bike in Spain. Aligning with the age requirement for mopeds.

Conclusion:
The Engwe Electric Bike L20 and L20SE models combine practical design with impressive features, making them excellent choices for commuters. When riding in Spain, it’s crucial to adhere to local e-bike laws to ensure a safe and legal experience. The Engwe electric bikes offer an enjoyable and hassle-free commuting solution in this beautiful country.

Also, by the way, I bought an Engwe L20 & loving it