For city dwellers and delivery riders seeking a powerful and efficient alternative to gas-guzzling vehicles, the 20 Electric Bike market offers compelling solutions. Among these, the Engwe cargo e-bike stands out, promising impressive mileage and robust performance. Having put this bike through its paces in demanding daily use, covering approximately 80 miles a day, four days a week for food delivery, this review dives into the pros and cons of this next-generation cargo bike.
Pros of the Engwe 20 Electric Bike
This 20 electric bike immediately impresses with its beautiful design and exceptional build quality. It boasts some of the best mileage in its class, making it a reliable choice for long commutes or extended delivery shifts. The price point is attractive, offering excellent value for money, and the availability of customization accessories allows riders to tailor the bike to their specific needs. Assembly is made easy with helpful video instructions, and the bike’s uphill power is remarkable, effortlessly tackling inclines. Fast shipping ensures you can get on the road quickly.
The dual battery option is a significant advantage, charging both batteries simultaneously for maximum convenience and range. The customizable front suspension is effective and easy to adjust, enhancing ride comfort across various terrains. Braking is tight and responsive, providing confident stopping power, and acceleration is brisk, allowing for quick starts and maneuvering in urban traffic. Practical features like a great kickstand and a large cargo seat area add to the bike’s utility. As a bonus, the bike arrived with valuable free gifts – a helmet, bike lock, and reflective vest.
Cons of the Engwe 20 Electric Bike
Despite its many strengths, this 20 electric bike is not without its drawbacks. Its weight is considerable, which can be a factor when maneuvering in tight spaces or lifting the bike. Anti-theft security features are basic, suggesting the need for aftermarket upgrades for peace of mind. The included horn bell is underwhelming and likely to require replacement for effective signaling. While customization accessories are available, they lack accompanying instructions, potentially complicating installation.
The front LCD interface and Bluetooth phone app could benefit from enhanced features to provide more comprehensive ride data and control. A minor initial issue was a damaged blinker upon arrival, although a replacement is being sent (currently backordered), highlighting a slight concern with initial quality control and parts availability. The absence of front blinker lights, unlike the rear, is a noticeable omission for safety. Customer service, while responsive via text or email, can have response times of 24-72 hours due to the company’s location, which may be a concern for urgent issues. The limited stock of accessories at the time of purchase was also an inconvenience.
The gear set is tightly spaced, making it challenging to maintain a speed of 28 mph without excessive pedaling at high cadence. The use of two separate keys for the dual batteries is less convenient than a single key system. Finally, attaching a cargo trailer can be problematic due to compatibility issues, and the lack of a dedicated attachment piece is a limitation for users needing to haul larger loads.
Conclusion: A Top Contender in the 20 Electric Bike Category
Overall, the Engwe 20 electric bike presents a compelling package where the pros significantly outweigh the cons. For anyone seeking a robust, long-range, and customizable 20 inch electric bike for urban commuting or cargo hauling, particularly food delivery, this model is a strong contender. Its advantages in design, build quality, mileage, and price, combined with powerful performance and useful features, make it a worthwhile investment. While improvements can be made in areas like weight, security, and accessory support, the Engwe cargo e-bike stands out as one of the best cargo bikes currently available and a step in the right direction for urban transportation. Other manufacturers in the 20 electric bike market could certainly learn from Engwe’s design choices and overall approach to creating a practical and efficient cargo e-bike.
