I Tested Amazon's Cheapest E-Mountain Bike

Summary

The Fun Hang EB M1, the cheapest electric mountain bike on Amazon, is a surprisingly capable option for those seeking affordable transportation. Priced under $400, it offers decent features like a headlight, horn, adjustable stem, and a suspension fork. While the battery isn't from a top brand, it’s safer than older models with basic overcharge protection. The bike performs well on mild trails and city roads, though it’s not suitable for advanced mountain biking due to unpredictable motor assistance and limited gearing. For its price, it’s a great value, though users should be cautious with the battery storage.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Fun Hang EB M1 is the cheapest electric mountain bike on Amazon, priced under $400 including shipping.
• 😀 Despite being affordable, the bike has decent features like a headlight, horn, fenders, and an adjustable stem.
• 😀 The bike has a relatively safe battery, with some basic protection like a charger that stops charging once full.
• 😀 The bike’s motor provides enough power to tackle steep inclines, but it’s not a high-end, high-torque machine.
• 😀 The bike has a suspension fork and all-terrain tires, but it's more suited for light off-road use rather than full mountain biking.
• 😀 The electric assist system can feel unpredictable, and the motor continues running a bit after stopping pedaling.
• 😀 The bike is more designed for commuting or casual rides around town than for serious mountain biking.
• 😀 Safety features like a motor cut-off when braking make it surprisingly safe for its price.
• 😀 While the bike performed decently on a rough mountain trail, it’s not ideal for serious off-road conditions.
• 😀 The battery could pose a safety risk, as it’s made by a lesser-known brand, but proper precautions can be taken.
• 😀 For the price, the bike is surprisingly well-constructed and functional, though it’s not without its drawbacks.

Q & A

What is the main selling point of the electric mountain bike reviewed in the video?

The main selling point of the bike is its affordability, priced under $400 with shipping included, making it the cheapest electric mountain bike available on Amazon.

How does the bike perform in terms of features despite its low price?

Despite its low price, the bike includes useful features like a headlight, horn, adjustable stem, fenders, and a suspension fork. It also has a battery management system and a temperature sensor, though the quality is not top-tier.

Is the bike's battery safe to use in a home environment?

The battery is not without risk, as it uses cells from an unbranded manufacturer. While it's not considered extremely dangerous, the reviewer advises caution and suggests using a fire-safe bag or metal box for storage.

What are the potential risks associated with the bike's battery?

The potential risks include cheap battery cells, lack of proper overcharge protection, and the possibility of a poorly constructed battery management system, which could lead to fire hazards if mishandled.

What was the reviewer's experience with the bike's performance on steep inclines?

The bike performed surprisingly well on steep inclines. Although it couldn't make it up the hill without pedaling, the throttle provided decent assistance, and the bike's hub motor offered enough power to make the climb easier than expected.

How does the electric assist work on this bike?

The electric assist is somewhat unpredictable, as it doesn't always engage when expected while pedaling. The motor kicks in randomly, and the bike is designed to be used primarily with the throttle, not proportional pedal assist.

Is the bike suitable for off-road mountain biking?

The bike is not ideal for serious mountain biking due to its basic suspension, lightweight tires, and hub motor. While it can handle light off-road trails, it is better suited for commuting or recreational use on moderate terrain.

What are the reviewer's thoughts on the bike's suspension and comfort?

The reviewer found the suspension fork surprisingly effective, especially for the price. It handled rough trails and climbs better than expected, though the ride could be uncomfortable due to the tires and the bike's overall geometry.

How does the bike compare to higher-end e-bikes on the market?

While the bike lacks the advanced features and build quality of higher-end e-bikes, it still offers great value for its price. Higher-end e-bikes like those from Aventon or Rad Power offer better performance, longer battery life, and safer components, but this bike is a strong option for those on a budget.

Would the reviewer recommend this bike to others?

The reviewer suggests that this bike is a solid choice for affordable transportation, especially for short trips around town. However, the concerns about the battery and the lack of advanced features may make it less suitable for someone looking for a high-performance bike.