After scrutinizing several Engwe electric bicycles, each encounter leaves me with an unshakeable sense of confidence. At an affordable price point of $1,199, the Engwe E26 perpetuates this trend with an impressively equipped electric bicycle that defies expectations by offering a substantial array of features given its moderate cost.
To experience the thrill of riding this e-bike for yourself, check out my comprehensive review video below. Embrace the pursuit of knowledge by devoting yourself to the examination of your concepts.
Engwe E26 video evaluation
Engwe E26 tech specs
- A high-performance 1,000W peak-rated geared rear hub motor delivering a substantial 70 Nm of torque.
- 28 mph (45 km/h)
- Estimated actual distance covered by pedaling assistance at approximately 43 miles (69 km), significantly lower than the claimed figure.
- 48V 16Ah (758 Wh)
- 74 lb (33.5 kg )
- 330 lb (150 kg)
- High-performance cyclists increasingly opt for hydraulic disc brakes paired with 180mm rotors to ensure consistent and reliable stopping power.
- Seven-speed Shimano drivetrain; large, high-contrast LCD color display; bright LED headlights and tail lights; ergonomic thumb throttle; sleek magazine-style wheels; plush suspension seatpost; removable lithium-ion battery; sturdy rear rack; durable fenders; adjustable kickstand.
- : $1,199
Beyond your wildest expectations.
While sharing similarities with other full-size fat-tire e-bikes, the Engwe E26’s fundamental design stands out from its competitors in several key ways. With the purchase of 26×4″ fat tyres, as well as options for step-through or step-over frame designs, a moderate suspension fork, and integrated fenders paired with a rear-mounted luggage carrier, your new bicycle is starting to take shape.
The energy here far exceeds what you might anticipate at this price. The 1,000W peak-rated motor boasts an impressive 70 Nm of torque, a significant amount indeed. As I glide along at speeds of up to 28 mph (45 km/h), it’s always a reassuring feature, especially when navigating city streets alongside heavy machinery, where only a narrow line of paint separates me from the path of enormous vehicles weighing in at over 4,000 pounds. Without a designated bike lane, accelerating does seem to be safer when I’m able to maintain a consistent speed with the flow of traffic, rather than being repeatedly stopped by pedestrians.
This smartphone boasts an unexpectedly large battery, far exceeding your average expectations. Typically, these bicycles are equipped with batteries that feature a voltage of 48V and an ampere-hour capacity of 14Ah. Generally, batteries are available in capacities of around 15 ampere-hours (Ah). On the Engwe E26, you receive a 16Ah battery. That’s a whopping 768Wh of capacity, making it an attractive feature considering the product’s affordable price tag.
While you’re unlikely to achieve the proclaimed 80+ miles (130+ km) without putting in significant effort, you might still manage around half that distance with consistent pedaling. If you’re relying solely on the throttle to generate all your power and using roundabouts like a cyclist, then approximately 25-27 miles per hour is a reasonable estimate.
“Good to see” parts
Many features on the Engwe E26 are actually quite standard. The Shimano Tourney 7-speed derailleur serves as a cornerstone of any bike’s gearing system. The rack and fenders are straightforward yet reliable, without unnecessary frills. While the inclusion of entrance and rear LED lights is a pleasant feature, their ubiquity reduces their impact on overall design.
Despite what’s offered elsewhere, you’ll find some delightful additions awaiting discovery. While hydraulic disc brakes are indeed a welcome feature, they’re rarely found on bikes at this price point. By installing high-performance brakes on your Engwe e-bike, you’ll gain a superior stopping power that demands minimal maintenance, ultimately benefiting all riders.
The color LCD display delivers excellent results, accompanied by large, easy-to-read numerals that clearly present all relevant information. As we’re grasping the handlebars, give that bell a ring! I’ve never encountered an e-bike bell quite like this one. In actuality, it takes on a shape akin to a precise bell. As a symbol of freedom and independence, I’m ringing loud and clear! The massive bell features a substantial brass striker, producing a pleasant tone. As a self-proclaimed aficionado of well-crafted accessories, I confess to having a soft spot for a harmonious, expertly designed, and audaciously loud bicycle bell. For a fraction of the cost of many high-end e-bikes priced at $5,000 or more, Engwe has exceeded expectations and delivers a product that could be equivalent to purchasing four bikes of similar quality.
Full-suspension bikes offer a significantly smoother ride than hardtail designs, thanks to their ability to absorb shocks and bumps throughout the entire length of the frame.
Although Engwe dubs it a “full-suspension electrical bike,” this classification seems inaccurate, particularly when considering traditional suspension terminology. This e-bike boasts a hardtail design, one that we’ve thoroughly scrutinized and evaluated numerous times before.
The designation as a full-suspension bike stems from the integration of a suspension seat post.
I see what they’re saying. In essence, your purchase has introduced suspension at the fork’s entrance and at the seat’s rear. Positive, that’s fantastic. Typically, the term “full suspension” indicates that a bicycle lacks a hardtail design, where the rear wheel also features suspension. The Engwe E26 lacks a rear-wheel suspension setup. However, this configuration makes it a hardtail electric bike, effectively sacrificing some of the comfort and control offered by a full-suspension design in order to achieve improved power-to-weight ratio and potentially increased speed?
Although some might argue that its off-road and pothole-handling capabilities are merely adequate, the included seat submit suspension does indeed provide a noticeable difference in performance. Don’t assume a conventional ride quality when approaching this bike, as its unique design deviates from traditional rear suspension expectations.
Sum it up for me
At a glance, this e-bike provides exceptional value for its price. This e-bike exudes quality, boasting robust power output and impressive battery life, despite its substantial weight of 74 kilograms, which is to be expected from a fat tire model.
As a giant fan of several options, I’m particularly enthusiastic about the suspension seat post, the elegant bike bell, and the potent hydraulic disc brakes. I’m equally fascinated by the turquoise hue and the yellow option’s appeal. After which, a timeless option of understated black presents itself, ideal for those who prefer to avoid the thrill of vibrant hues.
Considering its price tag of $1,199, this is an extraordinary value proposition. The bike performs seamlessly, boasting impressive speed and efficiency, while its affordability means you won’t have to sacrifice a significant portion of your budget. That’s a rating, in my view!
