Electric Bike Company Model A Review

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2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Electric Bike Review
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Custom Planetary Geared 500 To 750 Watt Geared Hub Motor
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Downtube Locking Battery Pack Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Bmx High Rise Handlebar Locking Grips Button Pad Color Display
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Left Grip With Turn Signal Button Pads
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Right Grip With Half Twist Throttle
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Rigid Steel Fork 24x3 Custom Rhino Tires Reflective Puncture Resistant
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Ebike
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A 58 Tooth Chainring With Guard 170mm Crank Arms
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Bengal Ares 3 180mm Hydraulic Disc Brakes
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Comfort Saddle Rear Rack With Integrated Light And Brake Light
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Large Adjustable Kickstand Mid Frame Custom Rear Lights
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Removable Battery Pack 48 Volt 12 Amp Hour
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Single Speed Drivetrain Upgradeable To 7 Speed
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Front View Large Headlight With Brights
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Rear View With Lights
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A High Step Black
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Electric Bike Review
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Custom Planetary Geared 500 To 750 Watt Geared Hub Motor
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Downtube Locking Battery Pack Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Bmx High Rise Handlebar Locking Grips Button Pad Color Display
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Left Grip With Turn Signal Button Pads
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Right Grip With Half Twist Throttle
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Rigid Steel Fork 24x3 Custom Rhino Tires Reflective Puncture Resistant
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Ebike
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A 58 Tooth Chainring With Guard 170mm Crank Arms
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Bengal Ares 3 180mm Hydraulic Disc Brakes
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Comfort Saddle Rear Rack With Integrated Light And Brake Light
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Large Adjustable Kickstand Mid Frame Custom Rear Lights
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Removable Battery Pack 48 Volt 12 Amp Hour
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Single Speed Drivetrain Upgradeable To 7 Speed
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Front View Large Headlight With Brights
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A Rear View With Lights
2023 Electric Bike Company Model A High Step Black

Summary

  • The most affordable model from Electric Bike Company, it comes in gloss black, one frame size, and a single speed drivetrain by default. Very high 420lb maximum weight capacity. Lots of customization options including 7-speed, fenders, a front basket, handlebar styles, and custom colors.
  • Powerful 48 volt 12 amp hour battery pack is cross compatible with some of the other EBC models. Sturdy 3.5 amp fast charger with metal body and fan, replaceable fuses. Large 180mm hydraulic disc brakes stop effectively and activate brake light blinking for added visibility. Large puncture-resistant reflective tires.
  • Excellent rear rack, seven bright integrated lights including turn signals, color LCD display and USB charging, cadence sensing pedal assist, and throttle on demand! Optional trigger throttle vs. twist. Default Class 2, but can be unlocked for higher top speeds.
  • Custom configurations are made to order, so there may be a two-week lead time. The bike is completely assembled in Newport Beach California, so there may be shipping charges if you buy direct. Many dealers, excellent warranty and support.

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

Electric Bike Company

Model:

Model A

Price:

$1,499 ($249 Shipping in Lower 48 US, Fully Assembled)

Body Position:

Upright Relaxed

Suggested Use:

Neighborhood, Cruising, Urban

Electric Bike Class:

Throttle on Demand (Class 2)
Learn more about Ebike classes

Warranty:

2 Year Comprehensive, 10 Year Motor and Frame

Availability:

United States, Canada, Worldwide

Model Year:

2023

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

61 lbs (27.66 kg)

Battery Weight:

7.0 lbs (3.17 kg)

Motor Weight:

8 lbs (3.62 kg)

Frame Material:

6061 Aluminum Alloy

Frame Sizes:

17.75 in (45.08 cm)

Geometry Measurements:

17.75" Seat Tube, 25.25" Top Tube, 17" Reach, 30.5" Stand Over Height, 33" Minimum Saddle Height, 28" Width, 74" Length

Frame Types:

High-Step

Frame Colors:

Gloss Black

Frame Fork Details:

Rigid Steel, 100mm Hub Spacing, 9mm Axle with Quick Release Skewer

Frame Rear Details:

135mm Hub Spacing, 12mm Threaded Keyed Axle with 18mm Nuts

Attachment Points:

Rear Rack, Front Rack Mount, Fender Mount

Gearing Details:

1 Single Speed, 18 Tooth Sprocket, Derailleur Mount, Optional Shimano Tourney 7-Speed 14-28 Tooth

Shifter Details:

Optional Shimano SIS Index Thumb Shifter

Cranks:

Aluminum Alloy, 170mm Arms, Square Tapered Spindle, 58 Tooth Aluminum Alloy Chainring, Sealed Bearing Bottom Bracket

Pedals:

Union, Resin Platform with Rubber Tread

Headset:

Integrated Cartridge Bearing, Threaded Quill, 1-1/8" Diameter

Stem:

Aluminum Alloy Quill, Adjustable Angle, 0° to 60°, Adjustable Height, 100mm Length, 25.4mm Clamp Diameter

Handlebar:

Steel, BMX Style, 27" Width, 8" Tall

Brake Details:

Bengal Ares 3, Hydraulic Disc with 180mm Rotors, Dual Piston Calipers, Bengal Ares 3 Two-Finger Levers with Motor Inhibitors and Adjustable Reach

Grips:

Padded Stitched, Locking, Optional Rubber Ergonomic

Saddle:

Grand Star, Oversized Comfort, Rubber Bumpers

Seat Post:

Aluminum Alloy, Tapered Head, Two Nut Attachment, Optional Adjustable Suspension Seat Post

Seat Post Length:

350 mm

Seat Post Diameter:

30.4 mm

Rims:

Aluminum Alloy, Double Wall, 36 Hole, 40mm Outer Width

Spokes:

Stainless Steel, 13 Gauge, Silver or Black with Nipples

Tire Brand:

Electric Bike Company Rhino, 24" x 3.00" (72-507)

Wheel Sizes:

24 in (60.96cm)

Tire Details:

40 to 65 PSI, 3.1 to 4.2 BAR, Puncture Resistant, Reflective Sidewall Stripes

Tube Details:

Schrader Valve

Accessories:

Massload Center Mount Adjustable Kickstand, State-Lite Integrated Headlight (120 Lumen High and Low Beam), Four Integrated Rear Lights (Two on Sides, Two on Rear Rack, All Activate Bright when Braking), Integrated Turn Signals (Front and Rear), Optional Aluminum Alloy Front Basket with Steel Mesh (50lb Capacity, Optional Battery in Basket for Increased Range), Optional Adjustable Suspension Seat Post, Optional Plastic Fenders, Optional Coiled 6 Foot Combination Lock, Optional Cell Phone Holder, Optional Bluetooth Waterproof Speaker and Speaker Holder, Optional High-Capacity Battery Pack, Optional Paint-Matched Steel Chain Cover

Other:

Locking Removable Downtube-Mounted Battery Pack with Replaceable Fuse and On/Off Switch, Smart BMS Overcharge Protection Limit, 1.8lb 3.5 Amp Charger, 420lb Max Weight, 25 Amp Motor Controller, UL Certified Electronics

Electronic Details

Motor Brand:

Electric Bike Company Custom

Motor Type:

Rear-Mounted Geared Hub
Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

500 watts

Motor Peak Output:

750 watts

Motor Torque:

65 Newton meters

Battery Brand:

Samsung or LG, 29E or 35E 18650 Cells

Battery Voltage:

48 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

12 ah (Optional 14ah)

Battery Watt Hours:

576 wh (Optional 672wh)

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-ion

Charge Time:

3.5 hours

Estimated Min Range:

28 miles (45 km)

Estimated Max Range:

65 miles (105 km)

Display Type:

Custom Color Backlit LCD, Adjustable Angle, 3.5" Diagonal Screen

Readouts:

Battery Charge Level Percentage, Assist Level (0-5 Dots), Run Time, Lights Indicator, PAS Indicator, Speedometer, Power - Cadence - Current - Speed, Temperature, Voltage, Odometer, Trip Distance,

Display Accessories:

Independent Button Pad on Left, Buttons: +, Power, -, Lights: Hold + Button (High Beam, Low Beam Switch on Right), Pedal Assist Activation: Hold + to Activate and Deactivate, Turn Signal: Toggle Switch on Left, Horn: Circular Button on Left, Battery Activation: Toggle Switch on Right Side of Pack, Settings Menu: Hold + and - (Need Password to Adjust Class and Current)

Drive Mode:

Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist, Twist Throttle (12 Magnet Sealed Sensor, Optional Torque Sensor)

Top Speed:

20 mph (32 kph)(Unlockable to 26MPH)

Written Review

This review was provided for free using a demo bike, but Electric Bike Company paid for a hotel and split the cost of flights to visit and film. My goal is to be transparent and unbiased with you, this video and writeup are not meant to be an endorsement of Electric Bike Company products. I welcome your corrections, additions, and feedback in the comments below, and the Electric Bike Company forums.

Observations:

  • This is the Model A, and A stands for affordable. It’s the most affordable model in the Electric Bike Company lineup, but is capable of being outfitted with all kinds of accessories, custom paint, and even a secondary battery pack for improved range.
  • The externally mounted downtube battery pack used for the Model A is cross compatible with the Model X cruisers that I have reviewed in years past. Modular systems like this make the bike easier to service and cheaper to repair. It’s also convenient if you already own one of the other bikes and can share batteries for extended rides.

Pros:

  • This is one of the most affordable electric bikes I’m aware of that comes from a reputable company with a good warranty and network of dealers. Sure, it costs $250 extra to have it shipped, and there’s a wait time if you customize the bike… but considering that it comes with a high quality rear rack, five very nice integrated lights, and hydraulic disc brakes, it’s definitely a stand out product.
  • Safety is a big consideration for me personally, so I love to see the durable puncture resistant tires with reflective sidewall stripes. They really went for it with the five integrated lights, including a high and low beam headlight, rear light that flashes when the brake levers are pulled, and the two mid-frame 3-LED lights. Even if you completely load the rear rack with a trunk bag and panniers, lights will still be visible from the rear and side.
  • Electric Bike Company products are gaining UL certification in 2023, which adds a level of trust and safety. This is something the larger brands are all moving towards, so it’s great to see here.
  • The rear light flashes when you pull the brakes, but also has turn signals built in! There are two additional turn signals up front that help signal to other cyclists and automobiles where you intend to ride. This is very unique for electric bikes, and is a welcome addition… especially at this price.
  • The tire size is a good choice, in my opinion. These are 24″ by 3″ wide, which brings the frame lower to the ground and improves stability while improving comfort by lowering the attack angle (taller tires) and providing sine comfort with air cushion. These are plus sized tires at 3-inches wide, which is rare to see on city models that usually come in 1.75 or 2.25.
  • I love how all of the lights, color LCD display, and USB port run off the main rechargeable battery pack. The USB port is handy if you want to mount your cell phone to the handlebar for GPS or music.
  • I appreciate the long seat clamp quick release lever, because it provides more leverage for tightening and adjusting the seat height. Small quick release levers can hurt my fingers, especially when it’s cold.
  • The rear portion of the bike is built around a forged dropout that is very sturdy. The maximum capacity of this ebike is 420lbs, which is way above the average 250lb capacity that I see on other electric bicycles.
  • When you purchase a bike from Electric Bike Company, it comes with an authentication card that has the serial number of the bike (good for tracing and insurance) as well as a signed quality control checklist. You can actually see who built the bike, and trace any questions or issues back to them. This is kind of special, especially since you can customize so many things about these ebikes.
  • This is a very purpose built electric bike. The frame allows many of the cables and wires to be internally routed to reduce snags and look a bit nicer. The seat tube has a channel on the backside, the battery mount interface uses three bolts instead of two, and I love how the base of the battery slide is curved to match the flow of the frame.
  • The mid-mounted battery pack keeps weight low and center, and it doesn’t take up any carrying capacity of the rear rack (like some other models). The battery capacity is fairly high for this price point, offering 48 volts 12 amp hours which is 576 watt hours. I appreciate how the pack has an on/off toggle switch, that can help it be stable during long periods of disuse or as a second step to operate the bike and reduce tampering.
  • Since the bike is fairly heavy, and the top speed can be raised a bit (with help from the company), it’s nice that they chose large 180mm hydraulic disc brakes. I found that they stopped very well, offering a good mechanical advantage over the 24″ wheels.
  • The 12-magnet cadence sensor is sealed and hidden from view, it felt pretty responsive to me. Both brake levers have motor inhibitor switches that cut power instantly when pulled. You can also disable pedal assist completely if you wish to only operate with the twist throttle. They also have a trigger throttle, if you prefer that interface.
  • The founder of this company is super friendly and authentic, they are easy to get ahold of via phone or online (in my experience), their 2 year comprehensive 10 year frame and motor warranty is one of the best that I have ever heard of, and they have been around since 2013. I am told that they are partnered with their battery supplier to bring a higher level of reliability and safety to each pack (cells have individual fuses vs. just one for the entire pack).
  • These bikes are completely assembled in Newport Beach, California. There is a team of people spoking the wheels, packing the batteries, and configuring the bikes. Electric Bike Company is the closest thing I’ve seen to “Made in America” in the ebike space. You can see a big tour of their facilities in this video that I shot during a visit.

Cons:

  • The frame is completely rigid aluminum alloy with a rigid steel fork. There’s no suspension here, unless you pay extra for the SR Suntour suspension fork upgrade or the seat post suspension. The Plus sized tires and oversized handlebar improve comfort, and you can swap the BMX handlebar for a cruiser bar to reduce some vibration if you wish. I believe this is an option that EBC offers at low cost.
  • The bike only comes in one frame size and one color, which helps to keep the price down. the adjustable height seat post and tall handlebar makes it easy to dial in for a wide range of riders… and you can pay extra for different paint colors (even custom-matched colors if you wish).
  • Weighing in at 61 pounds, the bike isn’t exactly light… and that’s without any fenders or a suspension fork added. I think the steel fork, large handlebar, large saddle, large tires, and included rack and lights just add up.
  • The bike ships as a single speed, which limits your cadence options. Starting from zero and climbing at low speed can be difficult. If you reach 20mph, the cadence can get a little fast. The upside is a simple drivetrain that won’t require much service. EBC sells a basic 7-speed upgrade (Shimano Tourney) if you pay a bit extra.
  • There are no bottle cage bosses on the frame, which is a shame because I think there is space for one on the seat tube. They do offer a handlebar mounted cup holder, and you can find other accessories to add a bottle adapter to the frame or get a trunk bag with a bottle holster.
  • I like how the kickstand looks, appreciate the adjustable length, and feel that it supports the bike well, but it is positioned in the center of the frame which creates pedal lock if you back the bike up while it’s deployed. I was told that they put the kickstand there to support the optional front rack and second battery that add weight to the front of the frame.
  • Minor consideration, the headlight does not point where you steer because it’s mounted to the steer tube by default, this can be a little disorienting when making sharp turns in the dark. You could always mount a second light to the handlebar crossbeam that would point where you steer.
  • You can angle the display to reduce glare but it isn’t removable, this means that it could get scratched at the rack or take more weather wear when parking outside. It’s a very nice display, but there’s also a warning notification that appears each time you power up… it can be disabled by the owner if you contact EBC.
  • Be careful with the right side of the rear axle because the motor cable protrudes here and could get snagged or bent if the bike tips over. This is a design vulnerability than many hub motors experience and just something to be considerate of, perhaps they could add a derailleur guard for added protection in the future.
  • The throttle is capped by pedal assist by default, and this is something I would disable in the settings because I like to use the throttle to zip up to speed or pass. It might require a call to EBC to get help with this.
  • I love that the display shows battery charge lever percentage, because it’s very precise. I also appreciate the color display, and it even has theme options (as shown in the video review above).
  • The seat clamp is very basic and difficult to work with. The top of the seat post is tapered in and there’s a clamp that utilizes a threaded rod with two nuts. The saddle can spin, and it’s challenging to hold and tighten both nuts simultaneously. It’s a real headache in my experience, and a more modern easy to adjust post wouldn’t have cost that muc to include.
  • Since this electric bike has a display, independent button pad for operating the display, a twist throttle, turn signals, high-low beam for the headlight, and an electronic horn… the cockpit can get a little crowded and busy with wires. However, there is one fewer cable up front since the default configuration is a single speed with no shifter mechanism.

Resources:

Review Updated On

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