In January 2020, I decided to purchase a Kent 700c step-thru bike from Walmart. Bringing it home marked the beginning of a journey in tweaking and optimizing a budget e-bike for daily use. My initial focus was on ensuring everything was properly adjusted and safe. Like many who are detail-oriented, I meticulously went through the bike, adjusting the brakes and derailleur for smooth operation. Every nut, screw, and bolt was tightened, some even receiving thread lock for added security. The wheels were carefully trued by adjusting spoke tension. Even the bearings in the front forks, headset, pedals, and front wheel hubs were checked and regreased, despite already having sufficient grease from the factory. The front forks, a basic model by Mode with a single coil spring and damping adjustment, were noted as entry-level but functional for my needs.
To enhance comfort and utility, several upgrades were added. I replaced the stock seat with a more comfortable one and installed a rear rack for carrying cargo. For tracking my rides, I added a Ranico PC commuter to monitor distance and mileage. While inexpensive, it has proven reliable when cross-referenced with car odometers and cycling apps. My typical rides range from 10 to 20 miles daily, weather permitting. Living in Houston, I often utilize the greenway paths along the bayous for longer rides. On one such ride, the bike covered 27 miles in Mode 1 with two battery bars remaining. I’ve observed that using higher modes like 2 or 3 reduces battery life, and frequent stops and starts during my rides, especially when fishing along the bayous, also impact battery performance. As of now, this e-bike has accumulated over 1100 trouble-free miles. I haven’t experienced any flats, chain issues, or electrical problems, which speaks to the bike’s reliability after initial setup and consistent maintenance. When I contacted Kent for replacement brake pads, I learned that individual pads aren’t replaceable. However, for $20 including shipping, I received complete front and rear calipers with pads, a surprisingly affordable solution.
The frame of this Kent e-bike bears a striking resemblance to the Espin Flow ebike. Regular maintenance has been key to its continued performance. One persistent issue was a rattle near the front of the bike. After extensive troubleshooting, I discovered the noise was from the battery moving within its enclosure. Upon opening the battery case, I inserted plastic straws at strategic points to cushion the battery against the Reention case (as shown in the picture). This simple modification effectively eliminated the rattling. While opening the battery voided the warranty, it allowed me to inspect the internals. Kent claims Samsung batteries are used, and while I couldn’t confirm the brand without removing the cells, the battery color was consistent with Samsung. Considering safety and visibility, especially for evening rides, good Lights For Bikes Walmart and similar retailers offer are essential additions. While the original post doesn’t explicitly mention purchasing lights from Walmart, it’s a convenient and accessible option for many cyclists looking to enhance their bike’s safety features. Investing in reliable lights for bikes Walmart or other stores carry can significantly improve rider visibility and safety on the road or paths.
When I inquired about a spare battery from Kent, the price was $325 with shipping. Interestingly, shortly after my initial purchase in February 2020, the bike went on sale for $598. I decided to buy a second bike as a source of spare parts and, crucially, to obtain an extra battery. Recently, I encountered an issue with my battery charger blinking red and green, suggesting a potential battery problem. However, using the charger from my second bike resolved the issue, indicating the original charger was faulty. According to the charger manual, a flashing red and green light can indicate a shorted coil or a broken rectifier tube. I plan to contact Kent about a charger replacement. You might notice a 2-inch Velcro strap around the battery in the images. This is simply an added measure for my peace of mind during rides, ensuring the battery is securely in place. The long-term lifespan of this e-bike remains to be seen, but I will continue to provide updates on any future developments.
Conclusion
Overall, my experience with the Kent 700c step-thru e-bike from Walmart has been surprisingly positive. With some initial adjustments and regular maintenance, it has proven to be a reliable and enjoyable mode of transportation for daily commutes and recreational rides. Adding essential accessories like a comfortable seat, rear rack, and, importantly, lights for bikes Walmart and other retailers offer, has enhanced its functionality and safety. While it’s a budget e-bike, its performance and durability have exceeded my expectations, making it a worthwhile purchase for anyone looking for an affordable entry into the world of electric biking.
