Heybike has simply introduced the launch of its new X-Sequence, with the Mars 3.0 and Ranger S 3.0 Professional comprising the primary two huge new fashions. Or perhaps not so “huge”, as they’re truly kinda compact-sized, no less than for full-suspension e-bikes. They’re each 20″ wheel folding e-bikes, they usually pack in numerous efficiency into snug rides. I’ve been testing each, and right this moment we’re leaping in with each ft to take a look at how effectively the Mars 3.0 rides.
To start with, as typical, it’s enjoyable to start out with a video evaluation. So try my driving expertise beneath, then maintain studying for the nitty gritty particulars.
Heybike Mars 3.0 Video Evaluate
Heybike Mars 3.0 Tech specs
- Motor: 750W steady (1,400W peak) rear geared hub motor
- High pace: 45 km/h (28 mph), although it may possibly technically be unlocked to go round 48 km/h or 30 mph
- Vary: Claimed as much as 104 km (65 mi)
- Battery: 48V 13Ah (624 Wh) battery in down tube
- Brakes: Hydraulic two-piston disc brakes on 180×2.0 mm rotors
- Transmission: 8-speed Shimano Altus
- Extras: Coloration LCD show, LED head & tail lights with flip alerts, full-suspension, 4″ fats tires, smartphone app connectivity, passcode and NFC chip theft safety, and included fenders & rear rack
- Value: $1,299 (on sale at launch for $1,199)
Extra is extra
Heybike has been on a roll these days with its rising lineup of electrical bikes, and the brand new Mars 3.0 seems to be prefer it would possibly simply be the model’s most enjoyable launch but. Whereas it hasn’t but been accessible to the general public, I received an opportunity to test it out forward of time, and based mostly on every little thing we’ve seen and skilled up to now, this full-suspension fats tire folder is a critical improve over the earlier Mars. In actual fact, it provides practically each different 20″ folding e-bike a critical run for its cash.
The Mars 3.0, a part of Heybike’s new X Sequence, is all about energy, pace, and rider expertise. It brings a beefed-up motor system, smoother folding, and suspension that really works, plus a number of sensible tech options that elevate it above your common price range folder. Right here’s every little thing it is advisable to learn about Heybike’s latest electrical mini-beast.
Powerhouse efficiency: the Galaxy Carry out eDrive
Let’s begin with what issues most to numerous riders: energy. The Mars 3.0 is constructed round Heybike’s proprietary “Galaxy Carry out eDrive” system, and it delivers critical muscle. With a 750W nominal motor (peaking at 1,400W) and an eyebrow-raising 95Nm of torque, this factor jumps off the road more durable than nearly something in its class.
Heybike claims a 0–20 mph time of simply 6 seconds, and from what we’ve seen, that determine nearly checks out. It’s fast, it’s punchy, and it’s highly effective. That’s due to a properly tuned torque sensor, which supplies you extra fast and natural-feeling pedal help than the old-school cadence programs we nonetheless see on far too many folders.
For anybody in search of extra thrill, the pace limiter that comes programmed out of the field to twenty mph will be bumped to twenty-eight mph by way of the Heybike App or the show. And for many who actually wish to reside dangerously (or experience on non-public property), the show helps you to push only a bit previous 30 mph when totally unlocked. That turns the Mars 3.0 right into a form of moped-lite, splendid for riders who need bike vibes with out the licensing problem, although it might push into precise moped legal guidelines in some states.
Actual suspension, actual consolation
It’s exhausting to overstate how uncommon it’s to see actual full suspension on a folding e-bike that doesn’t value a number of thousand {dollars}. However the Mars 3.0 doesn’t simply slap a spring on the again and name it a day, it makes use of a professional Horst hyperlink suspension setup within the rear and a hydraulic fork up entrance.
The outcome? A motorbike that really absorbs bumps and path chatter, as an alternative of pogoing round or bottoming out. That makes an enormous distinction whether or not you’re tackling grime trails or simply coping with damaged metropolis pavement.
Mix that suspension with the broad fats tires, and also you’ve received a genuinely soft experience, even at increased speeds. It’s not a downhill mountain bike, however for commuting, cruising, and exploring, it’s leagues forward of different folders on this class.
Good options that don’t really feel gimmicky
Heybike’s latest bikes have been leaning extra into tech, and within the Mars 3.0, these options truly add worth.
The NFC card startup is a kind of little touches that can make the bike really feel extra premium to some, although I discover it to be a problem. Perhaps that’s as a result of I’m often parking someplace secure and never worrying about e-bike theft as a lot, however the problem of swiping the cardboard or getting into the PIN code is simply an added step at startup for me.
That mentioned, I’m certain lots of people will prefer it, and so right here is the way it works. Faucet the included NFC card to start out, similar to unlocking a Tesla. Don’t have your card helpful? You too can unlock the bike by way of a PIN code or the Heybike app, which additionally provides you management over varied experience settings like throttle mode, help ranges, and max pace.
The intense, full-color TFT show is straightforward to learn and offers you all of the fundamentals: pace, battery, distance, help stage, and extra, with a format that really feels effectively designed as an alternative of thrown collectively.
And talking of throttle: riders can select whether or not they need it to observe the pedal help stage or at all times run at full energy. It’s adjustable within the app and offers you extra management over the way you wish to experience, one thing extra e-bikes ought to provide. And you’ll even regulate how excessive you need the throttle or pedal help ramping to really feel. Need light begins? Set it at stage 1. Need to fly off the road? Select stage 5. It’s a pleasant little customization function that lets riders tune their experience as an alternative of being caught with regardless of the firm programmed.
Stops in addition to it goes
Going quick is enjoyable, however stopping quick is necessary too. Heybike didn’t skimp right here both. The Mars 3.0 will get an upgraded hydraulic disc brake system with thick 2.0 mm rotors. Not solely do they supply extra chunk and higher warmth administration, however in addition they really feel extra confidence-inspiring when braking from 30+ mph.
That further thickness means it may possibly deal with extra warmth and longer braking, which is necessary when stopping heavy bikes or descending hills, or each.
Braking is easy, managed, and highly effective, which is essential for a motorbike that accelerates this rapidly and invitations you to push its limits.
Drivetrain and equipment shifting
The Mars 3.0 makes use of a Shimano Altus 8-speed setup, which isn’t top-tier, and admittedly is nearer to the underside of the Shimano tier construction, however is okay for a motorbike at this value level. Shifting is okay and predictable, and the mixing with the motor help system is strong, gear adjustments are mirrored within the pedal response in a means that feels pure and intuitive due to the torque sensor.
It’s the type of drivetrain setup you’d usually count on on a motorbike like this. It’s not going to alter your world, nevertheless it will get the job carried out.
Utility meets design
This factor is each enjoyable and sensible. The rear rack is upgraded and sturdier than the earlier era Mars e-bike, and the bike has a excessive weight capability (as much as 440 lbs complete payload for the bike). Whether or not you’re hauling groceries, gear, or perhaps a child seat, the Mars 3.0 seems to be like it may possibly deal with it.
The brand new folding system is quick and simple, with higher pivot factors and a extra ergonomic latch. Heybike says it takes 10 seconds to fold, and that’s not an exaggeration. It truly feels easy and easy, which isn’t at all times the case with fats tire folders. After all, the bike is heavy as hell at 70 lb (32 kg), and so generally the difficult half isn’t merely folding it, however manipulating it whereas folding it. So long as you’re comparatively robust, it ought to be effective. Small girls or others with much less higher physique power should have bother. I can’t actually think about my spouse folding this e-bike. She’s a powerful girl, however there’s no quantity of fortitude that may make up for the again muscular tissues it takes to elevate a 70 lb e-bike, even folded in half.
Last ideas
The Mars 3.0 isn’t greater than only a modest improve over the earlier model. I’d name this a complete new beast. With actual energy, precise suspension, and sensible options that make it extra refined and helpful, it is a folding e-bike that doesn’t experience like a compromise.
It’s not making an attempt to be ultra-lightweight or minimalist. It’s a chunky, techy, high-speed, full-featured experience that’s extra about enjoyable and efficiency than portability. However hey, it nonetheless folds, which checks the field on portability… principally.
For an extremely cheap $1,299 (or promotional value of $1,199) , the Mars 3.0 might find yourself being among the finest bang-for-your-buck full-suspension e-bikes of the 12 months. It’s excellent for anybody who desires a strong, full-suspension experience that doesn’t take up a ton of storage area, and who doesn’t thoughts the occasional speed-induced grin.
Should you’re out there for a go-anywhere, do-anything, rip-through-the-city-and-still-fold-it-up type of e-bike that sports activities full suspension, the Heybike Mars 3.0 is completely one to observe.
