Some of your loyal readers might understandably wonder if you’ve forgotten the cautionary tale surrounding the ultra-low-cost electrical bicycle that had piqued my interest on Indiegogo, its promise seeming almost too good to be true. While I initially directed readers to explore this concept themselves, my curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to take a stab at it to see what kind of insights I could uncover?
The result of their endeavours was quite fruitful.
Honestly, I must confess that I’ve had experience purchasing unconventional electric vehicles without even seeing them first from Chinese manufacturers. As the pioneer who brought the iconic white electric mini pickup truck to the forefront several years ago – an innovation still thriving today, might I add – it’s hardly surprising that my other ventures, such as introducing Chinese electric boats and other exciting projects, have garnered significant attention.
Following an Indiegogo marketing campaign for the innovative and unusual-looking Mihogo Mini electric bicycle, my curiosity was piqued and I felt compelled to procure one. With an initial value of $390, it seemed almost too enticing to pass up, though I’ve learned that caution is usually warranted.
As the narrative concluded, I had deposited the cash and initiated a leisurely activity. Despite the initial promise to deliver within just two months, it actually took around eight months for our eagerly anticipated motorcycle shipment to finally arrive at our doorstep. And to answer many of your queries, yes, this was indeed the pre-tariff reality, where an e-bike valued at $390 actually cost just that – $390 – rather than the inflated price of $899.
Experience the comprehensive unboxing and testing of this bike by watching our engaging video, set to an upbeat soundtrack inspired by The Simpsons’ classic “Canyonero” style.
As promised, my diminutive e-bike burst forth from the compact bike field in resplendent glory! Although it wasn’t impressive or extremely successful, it still had a certain level of quality to it. Despite its relatively underpowered 350W rear hub motor, the little e-bike effortlessly accelerated to a speed of around 20 mph (32 km/h). The 48V 16Ah battery boasts an impressive 768Wh of capacity, making it remarkably large. While these statistics may not be astonishing on their own, they are truly impressive considering the affordable and compact nature of this e-bike.
Although the entrance suspension fork appears diminutive, measuring roughly an inch (25mm) in travel, its minuscule size belies its functional status as a genuine suspension component. The 12-inch tires, each encased in a diminutive fender, provide a modicum of additional comfort during the ride.
For such a small and cheap e-bike, you might be shocked to see that it comes with a reasonably detailed coloration LCD display screen that may venture turn-by-turn navigation arrows out of your telephone, a folding handlebar stem, and even entrance & rear LED lighting. The unit boasts IP65 rating, ensuring that accidental splashes won’t compromise its electronic components and cause immediate shutdown.
The standout feature of this bicycle design is undoubtedly the innovative, wishbone-inspired frame configuration that generates a unique central cavity perfectly accommodating a supplied storage bag. By digging deep into your jacket pocket with its circular opening, you can easily retrieve items like a water bottle, phone, or snack package to keep you energized throughout the day.
At just $390, it’s clear that some compromises have been made, making this option an attractive value proposition for those seeking to save money. While initially diverging from conventional notions of ‘consolation’, the saddle’s design subtly nods to ergonomic comfort, its compactness fostering a sense of snug security. The harmonious union of small wheels and single-speed drivetrain tacitly suggests that speeds above 10-12 mph (16-20 km/h) won’t exponentially increase pace. Your progress largely hinges on judicious application of the hand throttle to achieve faster acceleration.
Despite its compact size, the device’s weight of approximately 41 pounds, or 19 kilograms, renders it impractical for solo transportation up multiple flights of stairs.
While the bike’s compact design might make it suitable for riders under 5’10” (178 cm), its feasibility for taller individuals remains uncertain. As someone standing at 5’7″ (170 cm), I found the design acceptable, yet it’s evident that the creators prioritized a Chinese audience over Western tallness. Riders will reportedly be matched with e-bikes that accommodate individuals up to 6’4″ (195 cm) in height, but only those with the agility of circus performers will find harmony on these three-wheeled vehicles.
For $390, I find myself exhausted from complaining excessively. You’ll also receive disc brakes, plus an impressive five color options to choose from – three more than many prominent US e-bike manufacturers.
Don’t risk it like you did?
Don’t repeat my mistake – numerous Indiegogo campaigns have concluded poorly, leaving many backers without the e-bikes or e-scooters they had promised to deliver. Entering this situation, I acknowledged the tremendous risk I was taking, fully aware that I had to be prepared for the possibility of being significantly disadvantaged. When I learned that a motorcycle would be arriving on set, my first thought was that I’d have the opportunity to create an engaging and informative video and article about this exciting event. Perhaps if a motorcycle never existed, its absence would warrant attention; the story of what could have been might be worth telling. While caution is advised when supporting emerging e-bike companies through uncertain crowdfunding initiatives, this stance should not be misconstrued as an automatic seal of approval for all such ventures.
I’m grateful that it worked out well; honestly, I simply appreciate the subtle detail. The sudden and substantial price increase, from $599 to a staggering $899, is nothing short of egregious, particularly in light of the marketing campaign’s conclusion. Currently, prices seem to be stabilizing at around $599, although corporations are hesitant to commit to avoiding further price increases due to ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Trump tariffs.
As I wait, I’ll continue to enjoy myself on my quirky little electric bicycle. Mihogo, Mihogo!
