Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Belated poorly written review - E-moto ebikes

I hadn't planned to write a review of the e-Moto bikes when I visited with them recently at the NorthWest Bike Expo, so I have neither notes nor a photograph (I'd like the notes, I'm sure you would like the photograph). But of course, they're online, so check them out here.

Here are my impressions - a full line of ebikes (mtn bike, cruiser, commuter, folder), aluminum framed. They're generally 24v batteries, so practical speed is probably around the 15 mph range, which is a little underpowered for the domestic market but do claim a 25m range. The smaller form factor battery, though, makes for some interesting battery placement - the mtn bike mounts the battery at the head tube, for instance. The midframe mounted battery looks to be a clean installation. They spec both front and rear hub motors across their product line, all with torque-sensing pedal assist. The company started with more traditional scooters, but found distribution to be a challenge, and added the ebike line. Riding in a circle in the Expo's demo area (which e-Moto sponsored, thanks guys!) is admittedly nowhere near a complete test ride, but based on that, I'd say it seems a legitimate consideration. Most of their models come nicely accessorized with lights, built in locks, and some models come with baskets pre-installed.

My request for a local distributor went unanswered, but they do show for sale at REI and Sears, as well as other retailers. Columbia Scooters is listed as a local dealer, but as they're a scooter-only shop, I'm not sure they would carry the ebike line.

"Yays!":
Nicely accessorized
Light

"Really's?":
24v battery could be underpowered

Updated, 3/6: Columbia Scooters let me know that they do not carry the e-moto ebikes, just the scooters.

Updated, 3/13:
Best Buy at Cascade Station is not currently carrying the E-moto line.

3 comments:

  1. No pictures?!? Have you followed up with Columbia Scooters to see they will take orders for them?

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  2. No word back from Columbia Scooters as to whether or not they stock or can sell the e-moto ebike. Will follow up. Thanks, @DanR!

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  3. nice blog.. check this out, here are some cheap batteries for your e-bike ebike 48v 15ah battery

    ReplyDelete