As we already know from my previous reviews, Electric bikes are becoming more popular in American and European homes as people seek out environmentally-friendly transportation options. In this post I take a look at the Engwe M20 Electric Bike Review in depth. The Engwe M20 is one such option, with a design that the SUPER73 clearly inspires. But don’t dismiss it as just another knockoff – the M20 has some unique features that make it stand out.
Engwe M20 Specifications
| Specification | Engwe M20 |
|---|---|
| Motor | 750W rear geared hub motor (1,000W peak power) |
| Top speed | 28 mph (45 km/h) |
| Range | Up to 94 miles (151 km) on pedal assist with two batteries |
| Battery | 2x 48V 13Ah 624 Wh |
| Weight | 89 lb (40.5 kg) with 2x batteries |
| Max capacity | 265 lb (120 kg) |
| Wheels | Mag wheels with 20-inch x 4.0-inch tires |
| Brakes | Mechanical disc brakes with 160mm rotors |
| Extras | Dual headlight, taillight, fenders, 7-speed gearing, front & rear suspension, kickstand |
| Price | $1,299 (single battery) or $1,599 (dual battery) |
Design and Build Quality
The Engwe M20’s design is heavily influenced by the popular SUPER73 electric bike, with a similar silhouette and color scheme. While this design may not be original, it does appeal to those who are fans of the SUPER73’s look but may not have the budget for one.
General build quality of the M20 ebike is decent but not exceptional. The bike features a sturdy aluminum frame that can support up to a maximum of 265 lb (120 kg) of weight. It also comes equipped with a front and rear suspension system, which is uncommon in bikes at this price point. The suspension helps to absorb shock and provide a smoother ride, which is especially useful when traveling over uneven terrain.
However, some components on the M20 are basic and not of the highest quality. For example, the mechanical disc brakes are functional but not as responsive as hydraulic brakes. The tires are also basic, with no puncture protection, which may be a concern for riders who frequently encounter debris on their route.
Performance
The Engwe M20 electric bike’s performance is one of its standout features. It is powered by a 750W rear geared hub motor, with a peak power output of 1,000W. This provides an impressive top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h), which is faster than many other electric bikes on the market.
The M20 also has an impressive range, especially considering its price point. With the option for a second battery pack, the bike can reach up to 94 miles (151 km) on the pedal assist. This means you can take long rides without worrying about running out of battery power.
The bike’s motor can also easily handle inclines and hills. The pedal assist system is smooth and responsive, allowing you to adjust your level of assistance based on your needs easily. And if you need a break from pedaling altogether, the M20 also has a throttle that lets you ride without any pedaling at all.
What You get with the Engwe M20
The Engwe M20 electric bike is a moped-style e-bike that stands out from the crowd with its box-style minibike frame. However, it sacrifices pedaling comfort due to its seating position, which makes it feel more like a motorcycle ride than an e-bike. While the Engwe M20 has half the pedaling comfort of most e-bikes, it makes up for it with its dual suspension and dual headlights.
The front suspension is better than the rear, which is a bit stiff for lightweight riders. However, it still makes a difference when hopping off curbs or hitting potholes. The front suspension removes the shock from your wrists, reducing the need to raise out of the saddle and letting your legs do the suspension work when necessary. The rear suspension isn’t adjustable, so riders can’t dial in the suspension to their weight.
The Engwe M20 is equipped with a 750W rear-geared hub motor that can reach a peak power of 1,000W. It has a Class 3 top speed capability with a claimed max speed of 28 mph (45 km/h). However, the top speed doesn’t quite make it into existence in real-world testing, usually topping out closer to 26 mph. The bike feels a bit sluggish off the line, but after several seconds, riders can get moving at a good clip.
One of the Engwe M20’s most significant features is its option for dual batteries, which can double its range. The bike company claims a max range of 47 miles (75 km) for the Engwe M20 with a single battery, but throttle-centric riders will probably get somewhere between a range of 20-25 miles (32-40 km) per battery in real-life riding. With the dual battery setup, a solid 40-50 miles (64-80 km) is a reality.
Although the build quality is basic, the Engwe M20 has plenty of redeeming qualities that make up for it. From the long-range to the high power and even the dual headlights, Engwe has made up for quality with quantity. The bike is equipped with 7-speed gearing, fenders, and a kickstand, making it a convenient and practical choice for urban commuting.
Throttle
Typically, e-bikes come equipped with half-twist throttles, which are considered safer for less experienced riders. This is because with a full-twist throttle, there is a higher risk of accidentally accelerating while walking the bike around, as the rider may inadvertently twist the handlebar. However, full-twist throttles are more common on motorcycles and seated scooters, which are assumed to be ridden by more experienced riders.
While there is nothing inherently wrong with a full-twist throttle on an electric bike, some riders may prefer the half-twist throttle for safety reasons. The Engwe M20’s full-twist throttle may take some getting used to, especially for those who are new to electric bikes. However, it can also provide a more intuitive and responsive riding experience for those who are familiar with motorcycles and seated scooters.
One potential concern with the full-twist throttle is wrist strain. Riders who apply prolonged pressure on the throttle may experience discomfort or fatigue in their wrists. However, this is unlikely to be an issue for most riders who are looking for a powerful electric bike. If a rider is unable to apply a small amount of pressure with their hand for extended periods, they may not be part of the target market for a bike like the Engwe M20.
Price
The Engwe M20 electric bike offers a great value for its price, especially considering its features and performance. The single battery option is priced at $1,299, which is significantly less expensive than the non-suspension SUPER73, which starts at $2,199. For just $300 more, you can upgrade to the dual battery option for $1,599, which offers double the range of the single battery option. This is a great deal considering that adding a second battery to many other electric bikes can cost upwards of $500.
Final Verdict
After my thorough analysis of the Engwe M20, I have to admit that it’s a really fun e-bike to ride. Despite some concerns about its basic build quality, this bike delivers a thrilling ride that can handle various terrains with ease.
And let’s talk about the price – at either $1,299 or $1,599 (depending on the number of batteries you choose), the M20 is a pretty darn affordable option in the e-moped space. While there may be better deals out there, few have as much battery power as this bike does.
Sure, it may not have the same quality as name-brand e-bikes like those from SUPER73, but for the budget-conscious rider, the Engwe M20 offers a great time for a great price.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for an e-bike that can deliver a thrilling ride, handle various terrains, and won’t break the bank, the Engwe M20 is definitely worth considering. Its unique features, such as the option for a second battery pack and full suspension, make it stand out from other budget e-bike options.
