The EG Athens 250 is a value priced around-town sort of electric bike with with many utilitarian features but just one type of frame (low step) in one size (medium) and two colors (black or white). It’s hard not to appreciate the value here with front and rear LED lights, a removable Lithium-ion battery pack, fenders, a suspension fork and two drive modes (assist or throttle) but the smaller 250 watt hub motor won’t be ideal for larger riders or those planning lots of steep ascents. It’s also not the easiest ebike to find at dealers and test ride and I’m not sure if EG sells direct… Still, if your dealer does carry them, the one year comprehensive warranty and clean aesthetic make this a difficult bike to ignore – especially for ~$1,200.
The motor driving the “Athens 250” offers… you guessed it, 250 watts of power! That’s not a lot compared to other electric bikes being sold in America but it’s standard fare in Europe based on different laws about power and top speed. It’s capable of powering the bike up to 20 mph but that’s hard to confirm because the basic LED display panel doesn’t have a speed or distance readout. The hub motor itself is a light weight, small form factor geared design that feels peppy on flat pavement and climbs alright with riders under 150 lbs. As shown in the video, it may struggle on steeper inclines but with a bit of pedaling help the bike will still get there.
Powering the bike is a standard sized 36 volt 10 amp hour Lithium-ion battery pack that slides into a mounting fixture on the rear rack. In my opinion, everything about this pack is normal and good except the key slot… While it’s nice to have a lock on this thing for security, I don’t enjoy leaving the keys in while riding (which is required to operate this bike). They can jingle around more and are exposed to bags and panniers with cargo that could snag or even bend the key depending on terrain. At the end of the day, the battery works and I like the integrated LED taillight for safety but I’m more impressed with mid-mounted battery packs that keep weight low and center on the frame. That can be more difficult to achieve on a step-thru bike like this and usually costs more.
Operating this ebike is very simple. Once the battery is charged and locked in place, just press the power button on the LED console mounted to the left bar. It lights up, displaying your general level of battery capacity and drive mode (assist or throttle). There are three levels of pedal assist and a 12 magnet cadence sensor activates the motor in a fairly responsive and smooth manner. The trigger throttle near the right grip is also responsive and nice to have if you’re riding through a puddle or rough terrain while trying to balance cargo. In terms of rider input, the Athens’ 7 speed cassette is good enough for around town use and keeps complexity and need for tuneups down. The Shimano Acera derailleur is pretty solid but the thumb shifter isn’t my favorite. The large levers are easier to activate when wearing gloves but don’t feel as natural or quick as a trigger shifter in my opinion.
The most exciting thing about the EG Athens is its price. If it cost $500 more I wouldn’t be all that impressed because there are lots of these “rear battery, basic systems” ebikes floating around. It’s a popular segment because it addresses the primary use case for ebikes right now – cruising for fun or exercise and commuting short distances to neighborhood stores or work. EG is a smaller company but their warranty is solid and they’ve been around for several years. This ebike isn’t as easy to find in person and that makes it difficult to test ride and ultimately purchase but the adjustable stem and relaxed bars make it fairly adaptable for a wide range of riders. Again, with just one small/medium step-thru frame and a weaker motor this isn’t the right answer for larger riders. The frame itself isn’t as stiff as some and also isn’t super light weight at ~54 lbs but I do appreciate the lights, suspension, fenders and chain guard which all contribute to that weight.
A value priced hard-tail mountain ebike that is at home on light trails or for commuting given the wide range of gearing combined with a throttle, pedal assist, and a 28mph top speed, backed by EG who has been around since 2005 and a dealer support network, a wonderful offering for $1,499. Driven by a rear hub-drive motor that is rated at a 350-500 watts, can be…...
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Michael Draut
9 years agoHi, I really like your site and reviews. You are doing an excellent job helping E-bike newbies learn about them and all the various differences. I commend you! I am 70 years young??? I use to ride a bike a lot as a kid. Now, I have bad knees and am not able to walk very much. I weigh about 250 lbs and 5’10”. I am a retired American living in Budapest, Hungary and my wife suggested I look into an electric bike to be able to get out, get some exercise and enjoy the beautiful city. The EG Athens 250 seems like a good option or maybe a Stigo scooter. With my weight I don’t know which path to explore further. Plus they seem somewhat expensive. I’d really appreciate your suggestions and recommendations. Thanks for your input. Sincerely, Mike
ReplyCourt Rye
9 years agoHi Michael! I really like the EG Athens for a more affordable but still utility-rich electric bike. I think even a 250 watt motor would feel satisfying for you on relatively flat, smooth terrain. It’s not going to climb very well but with pedal assist, at least it will try to help. My biggest question would be, which models are available in the part of the world where you are? It’s fun to explore the alternatives here but trying to get one shipped halfway across the world could prove difficult. Are there any stores nearby that carry electric bikes? I’d suggest going in person and seeing what’s available. Keep an open mind and remember that a pro level cyclist athlete puts out ~200 to 250 watts while riding long distance so even a “weaker” ebike is going to be like doubling your own power :)
ReplyLynn Frazier
4 years agol need to purchase brake pads for the Athens 250
Reply