The Big Cat Cargo Bike is a value driven electric bike with more basic components but a range of accessories that make it functional. It’s got seven speeds for moving heavier loads or climbing hills and a suspension fork that reduces shock to the front rack area. I like that it comes with both pedal assist and twist throttle along with LED lights and disc brakes for under $1,5000. It’s a decent option for people with more limited budgets but you’ll either have to add your own slats or work with a shop to fully utilize the cargo area so keep that in mind.
The motor is a standard 350 watt geared design with good torque and efficient freewheeling. It’s light weight (compared with most gearless designs) and small so it doesn’t stand out. Geared motors produce a bit of noise and can wear out faster than gearless but should last several years. This one is modular with a quick disconnect plug on the right seat stay for wheel maintenance or motor replacement. It’s powerful enough to move most riders but may struggle to climb moderate hills or reach the 20mph top speed without a bit of pedaling help.
The battery pack on this bike offers 36 volts of power and 8 amp hours of capacity. It’s not the largest configuration so range is a bit limited but replacements are only ~$249 so you could potentially buy a second one to keep at work. The pack is removable which is great because it makes charging and storing inside much easier. It also reduces the weight of the bike if you need to lift it up for transport. The cells inside are Lithium-ion which are known for being light weight and long lasting. To maximize their lifespan I’ve been told it’s best to discharge to ~50% the first few times but always avoid completely depleting. Store them in moderate temperatures (avoid extreme heat and cold) and top the pack off when finished riding with refills every couple of months if you haven’t gone out.
The cockpit area of this bike is relatively simple and easy to use. After inserting the key into the battery pack and turning it to on, the bike is in pedal assist mode. There’s only one level so you just start pedaling and it takes off. At any time you can twist the grip throttle for an extra boost but this drains the battery faster. A basic LED battery indicator gives you some idea of how much battery is left and there’s a separate button on the left to activate the lights. It’s a simple design that was common on electric bikes around 2010 that helps to keep the price low here. In order for the bike to operate the keys have to be left in the pack (so they can jingle around a bit when riding) and this reduces tampering when the bike is parked if you take the keys with you.
All things considered, the NYC Cargo Bike is one of the most affordable electric bikes I’ve tested in this category and it has quite a few features. I like the addition of assist and throttle mode. Even though the frame is heavy, the steel design reduces vibration and the knobby tires provide decent traction. I did notice that on larger bumps (or with a heavier load) the front rack can bonk the top of the light but the mount is somewhat flexible so it might not be an issue. The rear heavy design is less balanced (especially with the high-mounted battery pack) but the rear rack is welded on for strength which is nice and it sort of balances out the front rack here. I also appreciate the LED lights which are wired right into the main battery pack and Big Cat offers a basic warranty on factory defects for a year which is cool. For someone who plans to move stuff around regularly the rack on this bike could become very useful (and it’s removable for times when you don’t need it). The fenders are nice and keep you dry and the bright yellow paint job on the one I tested makes the bike stand out.
Affordable cruiser style electric bike with a well balanced frame and removable battery pack. Includes mechanical disc brakes, LED lights, suspension fork, throttle mode and pedal assist...
Entry level folding electric bike with more basic components and heavier frame offered at a good price. Includes mechanical disc brakes, LED light, fenders, throttle mode and pedal assist...
Entry level electric bike with more basic components offered at a good price. Includes mechanical disc brakes, LED lights, throttle mode and pedal assist...
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