The Kuo is the first folding electric bike in the A2B lineup of electric bikes but in truth, it’s actually the re-branded F4W Edge. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, A2B and F4W were merged into Hero Eco in 2011 and both have benefitted from lower prices, broader distribution and upgraded parts.The Kuo offers great features, a solid warranty and comes at a decent price point.
The Kuo, like most folding electric bikes, doesn’t offer a whole lot of power. It’s got a 250 watt geared hub motor in the rear that runs off of a 24 volt 9 amp hour Lithium-ion battery pack. If you’re a larger rider or someone who expects this to push you up hills without pedaling along then you’ll be disappointed. That said, it works well on the flats and is better than having no motor at all, especially because it’s relatively lightweight at just under 40lbs and offers both twist throttle and pedal assist!
This isn’t the kind of bike you’d want to ride for long distances, but that’s not really the point right? This will get you to and from the train, bus, subway etc. and be easy to fold up and carry onboard. Note that because the pedals fold up they aren’t as stiff and solid as normal metal pedals and the crank arms are shorter so you don’t get as much power with each push. This is true of most folding ebikes but still worth mentioning. On the plus side, the battery pack is well protected and very easy to remove making the bike even lighter to lift if you’re a smaller person. Note that you can charge the battery on or off the bike.
The Kuo folds easily and includes a magnetic clasp to keep it from coming undone during transport. The v-brakes offer decent stopping power and are appropriate for a smaller bike, keeping the overall price lower than if they would have gone with disc brakes. I like the kickstand they chose as it stays out of the way when riding. The fenders also work well and don’t make too much noise. All in all, this bike offers a lot of value and comes at a good price. A2B has a solid reputation and even though the Kuo is brand new to their line, it has actually benefitted from being around as the F4W Edge for many years.
Improves on the standard Kuo with smoother cadence sensing pedal assist, a larger motor and battery and upgraded drivetrain using Shimano Alivio vs. Shimano Tourney. Low weight distribution, removable battery is easy to access, fenders rack and lights look good…...
High-step urban cruiser with quiet resposive motor, removable battery pack and excellent warranty. Premium upgrades including ergonomic grips from Ergon, fenders with double supports, alloy chain guard and…...
Relaxed urban cruiser with quiet resposive motor, removable battery pack and excellent warranty. Premium upgrades including ergonomic grips, fenders, chain guard, suspension fork with lockout, rack and integrated…...
Sturdy step-through frame, strong smooth motor and higher top speed of ~28 miles per hour. Commuter ready with front and rear LED lights, fenders, rear rack and lots of reflectors...
Stylish frame with front and rear fenders, disc brakes, lights and a suspension fork for added comfort. Powerful 500 watt direct drive (gearless) rear hub motor is quiet and durable...
Smooth, strong ride with solid frame, dual suspension and large gearless hub motor. Beautiful design featuring integrated cables, matching fenders and front and rear lights...
Elegant design features integrated wires, fenders and lights with matching seat and grips. Front shock and larger tires smooth out the ride, adjustable neck for varied positioning...
Full suspension, forward positioned pedals and comfort seat make this bike feel like a Vespa scooter. High power 500 watt gearless rear hub motor provides torque and speed without a lot…...
Paul_C
11 years agoMudguards? Not present on the UK version. WHich is stupid as we really need them with our weather…
Magnetic clasp holding the bike folded? Sorry, can’t find it at all…
Chain ring n the front gear is not enough, needs to be a proper full length chain gaurd…. When folded and trying to pick it up, the chain is exposed and will get your clothes dirty…
otherwise, I’m having fun with mine. Got some decent pannier backets to got with the aftermarket pannier rack and also got a trailer to tow behind for a proper weekly shop.. :) I can easily get to my local supermarket and back up the hill with my weekly shopping in tow on less than a full charge using the Hard setting ( 2.3 miles there, 2 3 miles back)
ReplyCourt Rye
11 years agoHey Paul! I’m glad to hear the Kuo is working for you but bummed that it doesn’t come with the same accessories as the US version I reviewed. Thanks for the heads up and the quick testimonial :)
ReplyTim
10 years agoPaul: I’m looking for panniers to go with my Kuo. What brand and size did you get?
ReplyAngel
10 years agoWell, it seems like there are 2 models, Kuo and Kuo+, the cheaper Kuo (which Im about to buy) doesnt have the magnetic thing nor the mudguard, perhaps your site should specify this!
ReplyCourt Rye
10 years agoGreat feedback Angel! I tried these two models quite a ways apart and appreciate your clarification on these extra differences between the two :)
ReplyHector
8 years agoHi, I really need your help, I purchased a fast4ward egde ebike that I believe is the same model as the kuo. After left unused for one month, now every time I use the bike it turns off after 5 minutes of riding. The battery reminds full charged. I just realized that the computer screen has a voltage reader. At the beginning is 38.7V; but when the motor starts then the number goes down, 36,35, 34 … when it arrives at 33.5V the motor and the screen shuts off. I have to restart the battery again in order to get power. Hope you can help me. Thanks, Hector
ReplyCourt Rye
8 years agoHi Hector! Bummer to hear that your bike is having some issues :/ I have heard that over time batteries can wear out and that it can be dangerous to mess around with them too much… like some people try to overcharge or reverse charge them and that can result in fires. I think your best bet would be to search for a replacement (perhaps directly from Fast4Ward or the shop you bought it at) and if that doesn’t work contact a company that repacks batteries. I wrote an article about it here, hope this helps! Sometimes it’s cheaper to simply start from scratch with a new bike unfortunately.
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