Scrambler-style electric bikes are definitely having a moment, and the Super73 S2 embodies this trend perfectly. These bikes, drawing inspiration from the classic motorcycles of the 1960s, stand out from the crowd of sleek, minimalist ebike designs. They make a statement, loudly proclaiming they are different from those subtle beach cruisers and city ebikes that try to blend in as regular bicycles. Scramblers, like the Super73 S2, are designed to be noticed.
Riding the Super73 S2, you get a feeling reminiscent of driving a classic Jeep Wrangler. Much like a Jeep, it’s agile and quick to change direction, yet it can feel a bit twitchy and less confident during sharp, high-speed turns. This isn’t a bike built for carving corners. It offers a ride that’s more akin to a truck – a fun, powerful truck.
However, my experience wasn’t without its downsides. Repeated issues with the throttle, among other minor problems, introduced a level of tension into some rides, making it difficult to wholeheartedly recommend this particular 73 Electric Bike without reservation.
Unleashing Super Speed with the Super73 S2
The Super73 S2 is classified as a Class 3 ebike. This means it can reach speeds of up to 20 mph using just the hand throttle and provide electric assist up to 28 mph while pedaling. This impressive performance comes from its rear hub motor, boasting a continuous power of 750 watts and a peak power of 1,200 watts. That’s significantly more power than many entry-level electric bikes on the market.
Switching the bike to “Unlimited mode” unlocks even more power, pushing the motor to 1,200 watts of continuous power and a peak of 2,000 watts. This can propel you beyond 28 mph, which is something to be aware of, as exceeding legal ebike speed limits in public areas is prohibited in many regions.
The pedal assist system uses a cadence sensor to engage the motor when you pedal. However, the system isn’t very refined. Even a slight pedal movement can trigger a sudden surge of power. With four levels of assist available, the top two levels often give the sensation that you’re barely pedaling, with the motor doing most of the work. Like my colleague experienced with the Lectric XP, breaking a sweat on the S2 is a rarity in these higher assist modes.
Being a weighty, single-speed bike without mechanical gears, the S2 relies heavily on its electric motor. This reliance can quickly drain the battery if you’re not mindful of your energy usage and frequently use the throttle. I learned this the hard way on an early test ride, running out of battery. Pedaling this heavy bike without motor assistance was an arduous and slow experience, much like the exhausting rowing scene from Ben Hur. Eventually, I had to give up and walk. This is definitely not a bike you’d want to pedal extensively without the electric assist engaged.
Part of my battery issue stemmed from an unconventional charging process. Counterintuitively, when you plug in the charger, a green light indicates it’s not charging. To initiate charging, you must press the power button on the battery itself, at which point the LED turns red to show it’s recharging. This is certainly an unusual design choice. On the plus side, the battery is removable, so you can charge it without having to bring the entire bike to a power outlet.
Conclusion: Fun but Flawed 73 Electric Bike
The Super73 S2 electric bike delivers a unique and enjoyable riding experience, capturing the scrambler aesthetic and offering potent electric performance. It’s a head-turning bike that’s undeniably fun to ride, especially for those who appreciate its distinctive style and powerful motor. However, potential buyers should be aware of the reported throttle issues and the quirky battery charging system. While the Super73 S2 has a lot to offer in terms of style and power, these drawbacks might make some riders consider other 73 electric bike options in the market before making a final decision.
