The Engwe L20 is a versatile e-bike that seamlessly blends utility and comfort, making it an excellent choice for daily commuters and leisure riders alike.

This bike stands out with its robust design, which balances practicality and style. Its sturdy frame, complete with a rear rack and wide tires, makes it perfect for carrying loads or cruising comfortably on varied terrains.

The step-through design adds to its ease of use, especially for riders seeking a more accessible and comfortable ride.

One of the highlights of the Engwe L20 is its powerful motor and battery combination. With a top speed of 25 km/h and a range that comfortably covers long city commutes or weekend adventures, this bike provides all the power you need without sacrificing the smooth, controlled ride feel.

Whether you’re navigating traffic or gliding along park paths, the L20 keeps you moving effortlessly.

The pedal assist and throttle options give riders flexibility, making it easy to choose between a light boost or a full-powered ride.

The 7-speed gear system complements this, allowing you to handle hills or flats with ease, giving you that extra bit of control when you need it most.

The L20 is packed with commuter-friendly features. The integrated front and rear lights improve safety, while the suspension system softens bumps, making for a more enjoyable ride.

The rear rack and fenders are particularly useful for carrying bags or groceries, and the fat tires provide excellent stability, even on less-than-perfect roads.

If there’s any drawback, it’s the bike’s weight. The L20 is a bit heavier than some other commuter e-bikes, which could make it challenging for those needing to carry it upstairs or load it into a car. However, this weight contributes to its sturdy, reliable feel on the road.

Overall, the Engwe L20 offers fantastic value for those looking for a well-rounded, dependable e-bike. With its strong motor, practical features, and comfortable design, it’s a great option for both everyday commutes and weekend rides, offering a solid mix of performance and convenience.

The post Engwe L20 Review: A Fat Commuter E-Bike Worth Having? appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

The LANKELEISI X3000 MAX is an absolute powerhouse of a bike, designed to tackle any terrain with ease while offering practical features that make it ideal for everyday use.

If you’re looking for something that’s robust and versatile, this bike should be high on your list.

One of the standout features of the X3000 MAX is its durability. This is an extremely robust bike, built to withstand the rigors of both off-road adventures and urban commuting.

The fat tires are a major asset, allowing the bike to glide over various surfaces—from loose gravel to snow—with remarkable stability and control.

Whether you’re taking it on a mountain trail or navigating through city streets, the X3000 MAX is more than capable of handling the challenge.

Engwe X24 vs LANKELEISI X3000 Max

Having previously tested the Engwe X24, another folding fat bike, I found some interesting comparisons between the two. The LANKELEISI X3000 MAX comes with front splashguards and a rear pannier as standard, which are practical additions that enhance its commuter-friendly design. T

he X24, on the other hand, has larger wheels that give it an edge when riding through deep sand, but they also add to the bike’s overall weight and bulkiness. While the X24 might be better suited for more daring mountain biking,

I find the LANKELEISI to be the better choice for day-to-day use and commuting. It strikes a balance between performance and practicality, making it a more versatile option for most riders.

Folding Fat Bikes

Another key benefit of the X3000 MAX is its folding functionality. If you have a large car boot, you can fold the bike and store it easily, which is a huge advantage if you have multi-modal journeys or if you want to drive somewhere before starting your ride. This feature adds a layer of convenience that’s often overlooked but incredibly useful in real-world scenarios.

In terms of value, the LANKELEISI X3000 MAX is a great deal. It’s packed with features that make it a strong competitor in the folding fat bike category, yet it remains accessible in terms of price. For anyone seeking a reliable, versatile e-bike that can handle a variety of conditions while still being practical for daily commuting, the X3000 MAX is a fantastic choice.

Overall, while the Engwe X24 may have the upper hand in certain extreme conditions, the LANKELEISI X3000 MAX excels as an all-arounder that offers great value, durability, and convenience for everyday use. Whether you’re hitting the trails or simply navigating your way to work, this bike delivers a solid and dependable performance.

The post LANKELEISI X3000 MAX: A Folding Fat Bike for Daily Life? appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

Let’s dive straight in: the Tenways CGO600 Pro truly stands out in the realm of urban e-bikes.

This sleek, minimalist e-bike showcases Tenways’ commitment to designing a bike that doesn’t just excel in performance but also looks stunning. Its refined lines and subtle design make it a visual treat, ideal for city dwellers who value both function and style in equal measure.

What sets the CGO600 Pro apart is how “normal” it feels when compared to other electric bikes.

Riding this bike closely mirrors the experience of riding a traditional, non-electric bicycle. The standout advantage is its ability to maintain a consistent speed of 25 km/h, which proves particularly useful when tackling headwinds or gently sloping terrain.

The motor delivers just enough assistance to smooth out your ride, enhancing the cycling experience without compromising the natural feel of pedaling.

That said, it’s worth mentioning that this model is a single-speed bike. While the motor does an admirable job of assisting you on moderate slopes, steeper inclines could pose a challenge since there are no gears to shift into for extra power.

This might be something to keep in mind if your regular route involves significant hills, but for most urban commutes, it’s perfectly suitable.

The Tenways CGO600 Pro excels as a commuter bike, offering all the essential features for daily use. It comes with front and rear fenders, crucial for staying dry on rainy days, and a built-in front light controlled through the bike’s mini-computer.

The rear clip-on light is a thoughtful touch, boosting your visibility on evening rides. Another highlight is the belt drive, which requires almost no maintenance, meaning the only regular task is ensuring your tires are properly inflated. This makes it an excellent choice for busy city commuters.

If there’s one minor drawback, it would be the handlebar grips. Initially, they felt a bit uncomfortable, but over time I adjusted. Thankfully, this is a small issue easily resolved with a swap to grips that better fit your preferences.

Priced at £1,799, the Tenways CGO600 Pro offers incredible value for what it delivers. It’s a well-balanced e-bike that combines style and performance, making it a solid option for those looking to enhance their commute with a bike that rides as good as it looks.

Whether you’re new to e-bikes or a seasoned rider, this model impresses with its perfect blend of practicality, performance, and aesthetics.

The post Tenways CGO600 Pro: The Perfect Commuter E-Bike? appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

The rapid growth of electric bikes in the last couple of years has created a bit of a grey area.

In the past, it was a easy to tell the difference between a bicycle and a motorcycle. Essentially: the presence of a motor.

But with electric versions of both now commonplace, the line is becoming less distinct.

In legal terms (in the UK at least) an electric bike is classified as an EAPC (“electrically assisted pedal cycle”) if it meets the following criteria:

• it’s power output doesn’t exceed 250W
• the power doesn’t propel the bike beyond 15.5mph
• shows the power output or manufacturer of the motor
• shows either the battery voltage or maximum speed

If these criteria are met, it’s considered an EAPC and therefore basically treated as a bicycle in the eyes of the law.

But to the naked eye, the difference between electric bicycles and electric motorcycles isn’t so clear.

And the Engwe M20 is an excellent example of this.

This IS an electric bicycle, but it looks an awful lot like an electric motorcycle.

Indeed, among the people I know, this is probably the most talked about e-bike. People who aren’t traditionally big cyclists are very much drawn to this bike. Especially teenagers and people in their 20s.

And it’s not hard to see why…

But I don’t want to sound like I’m coming across judgy. This is a very cool-looking bike – and I think e-bikes like this are good for cycling.

The more people we can get interested in cycling, the better. The Engwe M20, with its motorbike aesthetics and powerful performance, acts as a perfect bridge for those who might not otherwise consider cycling as a mode of transport or recreation.

It appeals to a demographic that might find traditional bikes unappealing or “boring.” The younger crowd, particularly male teenagers, will likely love the sense of power and speed it provides.

However, let’s be clear: riding the M20 is far from a traditional cycling experience. The bike is equipped with a 750W motor that can peak at 1000W, and it’s designed in such a way that you barely need to pedal.

It’s more about controlling the throttle and enjoying the ride, which makes it more akin to riding a low-powered motorbike than a bicycle.

For those who are deeply invested in the cycling culture and appreciate the art of pedaling, the Engwe M20 might seem like a step away from the essence of cycling.

But for someone looking for an easy, fun way to get around or to simply enjoy the outdoors without much physical exertion, this bike is perfect. It’s fast, fun, and, with its dual suspension and fat tires, it’s also incredibly comfortable on a variety of terrains.

One of the standout aspects of the M20 is its value. For its price (normally well under £1500/$1500), you get an e-bike that not only looks great but also performs exceptionally well.

The battery life is impressive, offering a substantial range that makes it practical for longer rides or commutes. The build quality, while not premium, is solid enough to withstand regular use.

In conclusion, the Engwe M20 isn’t just an e-bike; it’s a gateway into the world of cycling for a whole new audience. It’s a bike that could very well ignite a passion for cycling in those who might never have considered it before.

Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or someone just looking to try out the latest e-bike craze, the Engwe M20 offers something unique and exciting. It’s not just a bike; it’s an experience, and it’s one that’s hard to beat for the price.

The post Engwe M20 Review: Is It Really an E-Bike? appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

The small company, Loop, with their two carefully designed, high-quality – but pricier – bike phone mounts have drawn our attention since they launched on Kickstarter a while back.

We’ve had the Micro Mount, the smallest of their two two bike phone mounts in for review. Does the Micro Mount do the business? And should it be considered one of the best bike phone mounts available?

Loop Micro Mount Key Features

The majority of bike phone mounts have two drawbacks. First, they usually require you to purchase an accompanying phone case to mount the phone to your bike – not ideal if you’ve already got a case you like or don’t want your iPhone ensconced in a world of additional rubber and plastic.

Second, most bike phone mounts look damn right awful. Flappy straps or bags topped with see-through plastic are two things that I’d rather my bike isn’t adorned with.

Loop Micro Mount aims to offer a solution to both these issues.

Micro Mount is a bike phone mount which is mounted by replacing the bike’s stem cap. The way it attaches makes it possible to orientate your phone in either portrait or landscape mode.

It doesn’t require an extra phone case to work and when not in use, the clever retractable mounting arms leave you none the wiser about what it is. It’s also machined in metal for strength and durability.

So Micro Mount has a universal design, it’s all-metal and it’s retractable. Let’s look at those three features in greater detail.

Universal Design

Micro Mount’s major selling point is its universal design – both for phones and bikes. It doesn’t require a special phone case, nor does it require a separate mounting piece to attach a phone to your bike.

If your bike has a standard stem, then the Micro Mount will fit – simply unscrew your stem cap with the included fallen key and replace it with the Micro Mount – it takes less than a minute.

Loop won’t work with older bikes with quill stems or other specialist bikes such as Brompton or electric cargo bikes.

So onto the phone side of things, how universal is Micro Mount?

Pictured throughout this review is my iPhone 11 (complete with a basic rubber case), which has a width of 2.81” (71.4 mm). Micro Mount held onto this nicely, good to know seeing the current iPhone 15 is just 0.2mm wider and the equivalent Samsung Galaxy S24 is a shade narrower at 70.6mm.

For good measure, I also slotted in my old iPhone 8 Plus into the Micro Mount. At 3.07” (78.1 mm) the mount held the phone perfectly steady. Loop says that Micro Mount works with all phones up to 85mm wide. This covers the majority of modern phones, even with the addition of a case.

Do watch out for bulky phone cases that add depth to your phone as well as width. Micro Mount will only accept a phone with a depth of 14.5mm.

If you’re worried, Loop has a handy specification page with all the exact measurements you’ll need to find out if your phone will fit.

All-Metal Construction

Loop began as the brainchild of an industrial design and product development agency and it tells. Holding Micro Mount in your hand, it feels really solid, well-made – and well finished – the packaging design is neat too – if you’re into that kind of thing.

When riding with Micro Mount, its grip is very solid – I never felt that my phone would dislodge and because it’s bolted to your bike it’s never going to part with that either!

The rubber finish on the lips of the Micro Mount does a good job of protecting your phone too. If you don’t have a case on your phone, I really wouldn’t worry Micro Mount would scratch your phone. The rubber is soft to the touch but still delivers enough friction to keep the phone in place.

Micro Mount isn’t designed for off-road riding but taking it down a light gravel path shouldn’t be out of the question in my book.

Looking at Loop’s website they suggest that Micro Mount looks so good, that it becomes part of your bike. If you colour-match it to your bike’s stem, I’d be hard to argue with that. Micro Mount is available in either black or silver.

Retractable

If you will, Micro Mount’s party piece is its ability to retract when not in use. How great you think this feature is will depend on two things. How much you value your bike’s aesthetics and how cluttered your bike’s handlebars are. Let me explain.

Like many of you, I’m sure, my bike riding has changed over the years. Gone are those fancy-free days when I could be in the saddle for however long I wished. Whether it was an extra loop on the commute home from work or a ride on both Saturday and Sunday, the march of life has certainly altered my riding habits.

Bike rides these days usually involve work or running errands with the odd ride for fun squeezed in when time allows. This is where Micro Mount has done the business for me. Its position on the stem has meant I can do away with that GPS mount, but keep my front light and handlebar bag mounted neatly.

Micro Mount has been perfect for navigation when heading to an unfamiliar part of town – simply snap in my phone, tap the directions and pedal away.

And when I have had the chance for a longer ride, Micro Mount has saved me charging up that long-forgotten GPS tracker to track my ride. In went my phone – on went Strava.

Is the Loop Micro Mount Worth it?

Yes, it isn’t going to suit everyone and every bike, but the Micro Mount is an excellent bike phone mount. It saves you from faffing with a compatible phone case and its mounting position leaves your handlebars free for mounting other bits and bobs.

If you’re a road bike rider who uses your smartphone for navigation or ride tracking and you like to maintain ‘the look’ of your bike, then get the Micro Mount, it’ll be a neat, useful addition to your bike.

Price-wise, you could say that Micro Mount is expensive, but when you factor in the total cost of an equivalent setup from the likes of Quad Lock or Mous, it’s not more expensive.

And for those comparing Loop to the bargain-basement options on Amazon, Temu or AliExpress, then you’re probably missing the point. This phone mount is a quality item and should stand the test of time.

Where To Buy the Loop Micro Mount?

Unlike its sister product, Loop Mount Twist which is available on Amazon, Micro Mount is currently only available via Loop.cc and selected third-party retailers. Shipping from Loop direct, is offered worldwide and at reasonable rates too.

The post Review: Loop Micro Mount appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

I was sitting at a café, having a post-ride coffee. I placed the black Troubadour Apex Backpack 3.0 next to me on the floor. After our second ride together, it stood sturdy to my side.

It’s one of those things you proudly carry with you.

I guess it’s what they call a statement piece in the fashion world. The statement I was making was that I was serious about my gear.

But, If there’s one thing I’ve learned, the universe will quickly humble you.

If my goal was to catch the attention of fellow café patrons, I certainly did a fantastic job at it. My right hand collided with my coffee cup as I wildly gestured mid-conversation, sending my freshly brewed cappuccino flying onto my lap.

Putting the Troubadour Apex 3.0 Backpack to the Test

As the blood rushed to my cheeks in pure embarrassment, my crotch got a hot soak. To my horror, the brand-new Troubadour also fell victim to my uncharacteristic clumsiness. This never happens to me until I take a luxury backpack for a bike ride, of course.

As a waiter rushed over with a cloth to clean up the mess I had made, my priority was the bag. “This is why you can’t have nice things,” I thought. My spirits were immediately crushed when I realized the bag was probably ruined. We all know milky spills are the worst. They have a smelly after-effect that’s usually a nightmare to get rid of.

The first swipe of the serviette instantly removed the liquid dripping down the front of the bag. A second swipe, and it was gone. The bag is waterproof, and I can confirm it is also coffee-proof or spill-proof. Lucky for me, even the zippers on the bag are designed to keep water out.

Later, when I arrived home, I wiped the bag with a wet cloth just in case. It looked as perfectly new as when I first removed it from its Troubadour packaging.

I must mention the packaging. Anyone with an Apple product will know that unboxing a new product can provide a serotonin rush equal to receiving a gift from Ol’ Saint Nick. There’s a rush of joy when you slide the sleek-looking bag out of its comfy cocoon—the epitome of quality and luxury from when you set your eye on it.

The Troubadour Backpack is Packed with Pockets

Then comes the exploration phase, when the newly acquired product is thoroughly investigated. First, there’s a small front pocket—perfect for your keys. The zipper is barely visible.

The bag is separated by two large compartments: one in the back for a laptop and notebooks and a larger front compartment for everything else. When I say, “everything else,” I really do mean it.

The bag has what they call “clever pockets.” They each have a purpose. One can hold a pen; the other is perfect for a phone. There are pockets to hold two water bottles and still enough space to add a freshly folded change of clothes.  

I can also confirm that it perfectly fits a pair of boxing gloves, as I used it as a gym bag and as hand luggage on a recent flight. “I was just telling him, you have such a nice backpack,” the woman beside me said as the flight attendant closed the overhead storage before departure.

Just yesterday, as I was standing in the lift admiring the backpack in the interior mirror again, I spotted something on the left shoulder strap. I’ve had the bag for weeks but failed to notice the zipper to another hidden compartment. I zipped it open and instinctively put my phone inside—a perfect fit.

Then, reading through the specs again before writing my review, I learned about another secret hiding spot. This one is made for a tag to track your backpack.

It might seem small, but this attention to detail is a big deal. It shows an understanding of consumer needs and beyond. Troubadour knows what you need and even what you don’t know you need.

The backpack is light, modern, and soft to the touch. It’s sturdy and holds a contemporary rectangular shape. Every pocket, zip, pouch, and compartment is intentional and well-thought-out. If this bag were a pen, it would be a Montblanc. If it were a watch, it would be a Rolex. This bag is a Troubadour, the only backpack you’ll ever need.

This review is based on an independent assessment of the product supplied to Discerning Cyclist. While the product was provided at no cost for evaluation purposes, our review remains unbiased, objective, and solely reflects the views and experiences of the reviewer. No compensation was received from the manufacturer or any other entity for the creation or publication of this review.

The post Troubadour Apex 3.0 Review: The Beautiful, Idiot-Proof Backpack appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

Electric bikes have enjoyed a major breakthrough over the past couple of years, with around 40 million e-bikes sold around the world in 2023.

We’ve been testing out e-bikes in all shapes and sizes, but recently we got to grips with our first electric mountain bike, the Lankeleisi RV800 Plus.

Below, we’ll run through our experience with this eye-catching bike.

Lankeleisi RV800 Electric Mountain Bike

While Discerning Cyclist has tried out many fat electric bikes before, this was our first go on a dedicated mountain e-bike and the first thing you’ll notice about the RV800 is that it is a thing of real beauty.

It is an inevitably chunky e-bike, but it’s been designed in a way that still looks sleek and streamlined, with the battery built into the bottom frame. It also comes in some bright colours and I couldn’t resist the Discerning Cyclist-esque orange.

Packed with Power

At the core of the RV800 Plus is the Bafang 750W (Peak 1130W) motor, potentially delivering impressive acceleration and a top speed of 52 km/h, although this is limited to 25km/h in EU countries and 25mph in the US.

This power is perfectly suited for challenging terrains, ensuring that steep hills and rugged paths are conquered with ease. The star gear design in the motor amplifies torque and enhances energy efficiency, making every ride exhilarating yet efficient​​.

Battery Life

Equipped with a 48V20ah Samsung lithium battery, the RV800 Plus promises an exceptional range. In pure electric mode, Lankeleise claims to offer 60-70 kilometers, while the assisted mode extends this to a staggering 120-150 kilometers.

But if you’re flying around with full power, you can expect to get about 60% of this range – about 35 to 40km.

Rugged Yet Refined

The RV800 Plus doesn’t just perform well; it looks good doing it. The frame is crafted from lightweight aluminum alloy, offering both strength and agility.

Its large, double shoulder oil spring suspension fork, coupled with 26*4.0 Kenda fat tires, ensures a smooth ride across varied terrains, from city streets to muddy trails.

The bike’s design balances rugged functionality with sleek aesthetics, making it a head-turner wherever it goes​​.

User-Friendly Features

A standout feature is the color smart LCD meter, which offers a wealth of information at a glance, from gear settings to power output. This IP64 waterproof and dustproof meter enhances the RV800 Plus’s user experience, keeping riders informed and in control.

The bike also boasts hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power, a Shimano 7-speed gear system for smooth transitions, and a comfortable sports seat, making long rides more enjoyable​​.

The RV800 also has a nice chunky and bright front light which can be controlled from the user dashboard, although sadly no rear light is included.

Not Just for the Trails

While the RV800 Plus excels in off-road conditions, its versatility makes it an excellent choice for daily commutes or leisurely weekend rides. The bike’s robust construction and powerful motor make it capable of handling urban environments with the same ease as mountain trails.

Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring backcountry roads, the RV800 Plus adapts seamlessly to your needs. Lankeleisi also provide removable mudguards with the bike which is a most welcome addition and one that should come with every bike in my opinion.

Lankeleisi RV800 Plus Review

The Lankeleisi RV800 Plus is a great deal of fun.

Its combination of power, range, and design makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to upgrade their riding experience. While it might be on the heavier side, weighing in at 35.5kg, the trade-off is a bike that’s built to last and perform.

If you’re in the market for an e-bike that can handle both urban commutes and rugged trails with equal aplomb, the RV800 Plus is certainly worth considering. It’s a bike that promises to transform your daily rides into extraordinary journeys.

Oh, and it looks really cool.

The post Lankeleisi RV800 Plus Review: All-Terrain e-MTB Fun appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

When you think of a folding bike, you probably picture a dainty, somewhat nerdy looking contraption.

The Engwe X24 is a folding bike. But it’s not that type of folding bike. This is a true beast of an electric bike that just happens to fold.

And there are pros and cons to that. So in this Engwe X24 review I’ll discuss my experience of riding this electric bike, including the things I loved and the things I didn’t.

Watch the Engwe X24 Short Video Review

A Heavy Folding Electric Bike

Before I dig into this Engwe X24 review, let me address the elephant in the room: this is a exceptionally heavy folding bike. I’m really not exaggerating. The dual battery version of the X24 weighs 49.32kg (108lb) with the batteries in place. That’s the equivalent weight of 408 bananas or a very overweight Golden Retriever.

Fat e-bikes are typically heavy (normally 35-40kg). But this is the heaviest I’ve reviewed yet.

A heavy fat bike isn’t a problem per se. Unless you have to carry around – which is something that you’d expect to do with a folding bike.

So this isn’t a “folding bike” you’ll want to carry around as you can get on and public transport.

But there are two use cases for the folding aspect:

1. if you have limited storage at home, this bike will fold in half
2. the X24 can be folded in half and put in a large car boot and drive somewhere new to start a two-wheeled adventure.

While I can say I was able to fold the bike, lift it up and put it in my car boot. It wasn’t easy.

Only my exceptional strength, flawless technique and modesty made this task possible. It is very heavy and awkward to carry.

Despite this, the Engwe X24 still makes a lot of sense. Let me explain why…

What/Who is the Engwe X24 For?

It’s not just the folding capability that makes the Engwe X24 interesting. This e-bike also has two removable batteries, triple suspension and tonnes of power with a massive 1200W motor.

Note: There is also a single battery version available, but I’d recommend splashing out a big more cash for the dual option and the extended range it brings.

Electric bikes brands typically claim double the real-world range. Not because they’re lying, but because they calculate their range based on using the lowest assistance settings on flat, smooth terrain (probably with a backwind for good measure).

Engwe claim this bike can go 93 miles on a single charge, and my experience (riding around with full assistance on all kinds of terrain) found this bike can easily go 40 miles. If you lower the assistance level, you could certainly get more.

For me, this big range is especially useful as my commute is currently longer than usual at 12 miles each way – meaning I can easily ride to and from the office (even with the light on at night) without worrying about the battery giving up on me.

A True Adventure E-Bike

But more than anything, this bike is a lot of fun.

It might be deemed a bit silly even. And it definitely gets more than its fair share of attention. But it’s fun without doubt.

You can ride through any terrain (sand, mud and snow are no problem) and it flies up hills with minimal effort.

Throttles are very much needed on fat e-bikes and thankfully this has one as standard.

This bike whizzes around town, goes on the beach, flies through the forest and batters any hill. Then you can even throw it in a car boot if you want to take it elsewhere.

There’s even a back seat for a guest (although I’m pretty sure that’s illegal to use on the streets).

The Engwe X24 Isn’t Perfect, Though

Although I have thoroughly enjoyed riding and using the X24 on a daily basis. It’s not perfect.

I’ve already the weight issue considering it’s a folding bike. Although, this isn’t really possible for Engwe to rectify considering it is a dual battery fat bike. It’s a miracle it can fold at all real. If you want a lightweight folding bike that’s easy to carry, this isn’t for you!

I would have also like to have seen mudguards included on this bike as you quickly get messy riding in wet weather or off-road. The rear seat does prevent a fair bit of splashback, but it’ll be difficult to add fenders to this bike if you still want to fold it up.

The last issue I’ve encountered with this bike is that it is quite a pain to remove the batteries. Both batteries are removable, but you need to fold the bike to access the battery in the frame (it is secure with a key so people can’t just open your bike and steal it), while the bigger battery in the seatpost requires another key to lift the seatpost up and it is a awkward and slow to remove. That said, both batteries can be charged while still in the bike – so if you can bring your bike indoors, I’ve found this to be the easiest option.

Engwe X24 Electric Bike Review

Overall though, I’m surprised by how much I like this folding fat e-bike. It’s a crazy bike, but, man, it’s fun.

It’s powerful. It’s adventurous. It’s got a great battery life and it’s bizarrely versatile.

Engwe Electric Bikes

I’ve become well-acquianted with Engwe over the past year or so. It’s a relatively new e-bike brand, but one that is innovating at an impressive rate and producing increasingly eye-catching electric bikes.

I started out by testing the Engwe EP-2, which was a decent fat folding bike, before I was really blown away by what I still maintain is the best value electric bike for commuters, the Engwe P26.

But in recent months, their range has gone to a whole new level and I’ve been testing out the eye-catching motorcycle-esque Engwe M20 and city cruising L20.

The Engwe X24 is another impressive addition to their affordable line-up and at under $2,000/£2,000 it’s again an example of why Engwe are quickly becoming the best value e-bike brand in the world.

The Engwe X24 typically comes in black (pictured) and grey, but there’s also a stunning blue colour called Ymir, although it’s limited to 100 units only.

The post Engwe X24: A Pointless or Perfect Folding Bike appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

There’s nothing like a good cycle. In my opinion, the only thing that makes a bicycle ride better is music. I enjoy popping on my earphones when I walk, run, or bike ride. I’m a big John Mayer fan, as my Spotify year-end playlist will attest.

So when I zoom through the streets of Cape Town, I like listening to Sob Rock while singing along to every lyric. I’ve always only used earbuds or headphones for outdoor activities, but I was eager to give bone-conduction earphones a chance.

I was super-keen to try out the Nank(Naenka) High-performance Runner Neo Bone Conduction Bluetooth Sports Headphones when offered the opportunity to review the product.

How Do Bone Conduction Headphones Work?

Why bone conduction headphones? Unlike other products, these headphones don’t rely on traditional speakers to deliver sound.

Instead, they sit firmly against the upper cheekbone near the front of the ears and use transducers to send vibrations directly into the skull. Sound is conducted through your bones and inner ear.

Why Choose Bone Conduction Headphones?

Those opting for this option want to enjoy music while being aware of their surroundings and ambient sounds. Because the ear canals remain open, the user can remain aware of what is happening around them while enjoying their favorite songs.

For cyclists, this would mean you can be completely aware of traffic, making rides much safer. Because these headphones rest against the upper cheekbone, they are great for extended wear without pressure on the ear canals. They’re also perfect for people with different ear shapes and sizes.

How’s the Sound Quality of the Nank Runner Neo?

This was my first time using bone conduction headphones, and I have to be honest: I was wholly underwhelmed by the sound quality when I put them on for the first time. According to its website, the Nank Runner Neo has 57% better sound quality than similar products due to “high-efficient vibrator 3.0 technology,” which “effectively increases the vibration area by 55%”, making for better sound output.

Having never used bone conduction headphones before, I could only compare my audio experiences to earbuds and over-ear headphones, designed to keep all sound in and the noise out. As a first-time user, I was unprepared for the lower volume of bone conduction headphones. In fact, I was sure the volume on my phone or the headphones was not fully turned up the first few uses. It was lacking the richness and immersive qualities other headphones usually provide.

I used the headphones for several weeks, taking them everywhere instead of my regular headphones. Over time, I got used to the volume levels and realized the perk of hearing traffic or ambient noises around me while listening to music. I’d compare it to a backtrack playing in a film scene where you can still hear all the main characters’ conversations while being aware of the music.

For cycling, this is a great advantage. Being aware of your surroundings while cycling can be lifesaving. But it has its limitations. I tried listening to a podcast while moving through noisy surroundings and wouldn’t recommend it. I kept missing some parts of the conversation due to sudden bursts of noise around me.

I also tried taking a phone call on the earphones and found it nearly impossible to hear the audio clearly. To enhance the sounds, I closed one ear canal with a finger to up the volume as much as possible to hear the person on the other side of the line. This is not ideal if you need both hands while on your bike.

Bone-conduction headphones are great for music but not for podcast audio or for taking phone calls. There’s a lack of deep bass frequencies, which require more direct contact with the inner ear.

To remedy this, the Runner Neo box includes two earbuds and six sound quality enhancers (2 x small, 2 x medium, 2 x large), which can be inserted into the ears to block out other sounds. Using these add-ons did increase the volume and clarity of the sound. My concern is that carrying around the extra earbuds would risk losing them, but according to the Nank, the earbuds and sound quality enhancers are mainly for indoor use and not meant for outdoors or when on runs or rides.

Also included is a rubber band that can be placed on the back end of the earphones to ensure a tighter fit. It’s an extra I didn’t find helpful or necessary as the headphones rest comfortably on the upper ear. Made from titanium and covered in silicone, the headphones weigh only 0.9oz and are light and comfortable to wear. The Nank Runner Neo also fit snugly underneath my helmet and sunglasses.

The headphones are waterproof, which helps protect them against sweat, especially in the temple and lower areas where they make direct contact with the skin. Another positive is the long battery life. Effortless overnight charging will offer at least 10 hours of playtime. In my experience, it might be even longer.

Are the Nank Runner Neo Headphones Worth It?

The Nank(Naenka) Runner Neo Bone Conduction Bluetooth Sports Headphones offer a unique audio experience that caters to those who prioritize situational awareness while enjoying music during outdoor activities.

While they may not match the audio richness of traditional headphones, their safety benefits, lightweight design, and waterproof features make them a viable option for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. However, for podcast aficionados and frequent callers, they may fall short in providing the audio quality needed for these activities.

Ultimately, the choice to embrace bone conduction technology depends on your individual preferences and priorities in your outdoor music journey.

The post Nank(Naenka) Runner Neo Bone Conduction Headphones Review appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

A stalwart of the British cycling scene, Ribble Cycles can trace their history back well over 100 years.

Beginning as a bike shop in 1897, the brand is now one of the biggest independent bicycle brands that sells directly to consumers.

Selling bicycles in the 21st century is wildly different than back in the late 1800s, but has Ribble adapted to ever-changing cycling tastes and demands? We aim to find out.

Who Are Ribble Cycles?

Ribble Cycles are bicycle brand and manufacturer, with strong roots in the Northern part of the UK and a particular affinity for top-end products at more accessible prices. It could be said that Ribble is the biggest British bike brand in the country today.

Ribble’s history spans over 120 years and in that period the brand has cleverly moved with the times. From hand-building steel frames and selling them from a traditional bike shop on the high street to the first wave of ‘mail order’ bikes and on today’s highly polished Ribble website, there’s no doubting Ribble’s adaptability and resilience.

It can be said that Ribble’s history is bound up in the sport of road cycling, especially in the UK. The brand has long provided (and continues to do so) bikes and accessories to some of the country’s top professional and semi-professional cyclists.

What Does Ribble Cycles Specialize In?

Arguably Ribble’s specialism lies in high-performance road bikes at great prices. The brand does plenty to show that top-end, doesn’t have to mean bottoming out your bank account.

That said, Ribble isn’t stuck in the days of yore, the brand has a good selection of electric bikes for sale and has fairly recently, jumped back into mountain bikes too.

Thanks to its history in road bikes, today Ribble is well-known for its electric road bikes – some of which are near the lightest in their class. Even more recently, Ribble has expanded its range into electric gravel bikes.

Are Ribble Cycles Bikes Good?

In our opinion, and in a short sentence, Ribble represents excellent value for money for cyclists looking for premium performance.

Take the Ribble Endurance SL road bike for example – a popular do-it-all road bike. The Enthusiast model is priced at £3,399 with Shimano 105 Di2 gearing and carbon wheels. A similar bike at Specialized, the Tarmac SL7 Comp, with the same gearing setup is around £1,100 more. Clearly, this isn’t comparing like-for-like, but it does give you an indication of the value Ribble offers.

Depending on the type of bike you wish to buy, it’s always worth checking Ribble to see if they could have something that would suit you.

Is Ribble Cycles a Good Brand?

Despite a few fulfilment glitches during the pandemic (they certainly weren’t the only bike brand that was affected), Ribble holds a good reputation in the cycling community. Its bikes are lauded for their design, performance and value for money.

Where Ribble has really distinguished itself over the past decade or so is in its web presence. The Ribble website is, not to be too dramatic about it, a very immersive and enjoyable place to browse. Streams and streams of information about Ribble’s various bikes are displayed thoughtfully and carefully, helping make every buying decision a supportive one.

As far as we can tell almost all Ribble bikes are built to order (the checkout process on their website gives you estimated dispatch dates for each model/variant/size) and as such every bike can be customised beyond its off-the-shelf specification. Although this might be too much choice for the everyday cyclist, we think it’s a stupendous feature.

Of the customisation options available, the most exciting one is the Custom Colour feature. Once you’ve chosen your bike you can select from a range of colour palettes, applying them to the frame and decals. You can even choose from different types of colour gradients! Obviously, this is a brilliant feature, but we’d like to applaud this herculean feat of website engineering that Ribble has undertaken to get it live.

Where Are Ribble Cycles Bikes Made?

All Ribble bikes are built in Britain. That being said, the parts which make up the bikes originate from different countries across the globe.

Whilst Ribble is typically coy on the origin of their frames, we’d wager they come from either Taiwan or China, much like the third-party components that complete their bikes.

Does Ribble Cycles Make E-Bikes?

Yes, Ribble currently manufactures a number of bikes across its range. To keep things simple, Ribble typically offers an electrically assisted model of each of its bikes, whether that’s the Endurance SL e road bike, Gravel AL e gravel bike or Urban AL e city bike.

Like many of the world’s leading electric bike brands, Ribble offers each of its electric bikes in various models or builds. “Hero”, “Pro” and “Enthusiast” are some examples.

The Hero model will have the top-end specification whilst the Enthusiast will have a more basic build. The key thing to remember here is that the heart of the bike, the frame and fork (and motor in the case of an electric bike) will be the same regardless of which model you choose.

Ribble Cycles Bikes Review

Ribble has amassed a huge number of reviews of their bikes. From customer reviews on their own website to both specialist and general press assessments, there are thousands of Ribble bikes out there in the wild.

In general, product reviews of Ribble bikes tend to focus on their solid specification, good performance and perhaps most importantly, value for money. Of course, Ribble bikes aren’t always spot on and the odd component choice or design feature has left some riders dissatisfied.

For an assessment of Ribble’s overall customer satisfaction, we visited their page on the popular review site, Trustpilot. Clearly, not every single customer was delighted with their order, but at the time of writing the brand had a more than acceptable 4 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot.

Alongside the usual gripes about fulfilment delays and product issues, many, many customers (the brand has over 33,000 reviews!) praised the company for delivering their order early and with a great overall experience to boot!

Best Ribble Cycles E-Bikes

The post Ribble Cycles Review: Are Ribble Bikes Really Worth It? appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.