2013 IZIP E3 Metro Review

Izip E3 Metro Electric Bike Review 1
Izip E3 Metro
Izip E3 Metro Hub Motor
Izip E3 Metro Basket
Izip E3 Metro Pedelec Sensor
Izip E3 Metro Rear Rack
Izip E3 Metro Electric Bike Review 1
Izip E3 Metro
Izip E3 Metro Hub Motor
Izip E3 Metro Basket
Izip E3 Metro Pedelec Sensor
Izip E3 Metro Rear Rack

Summary

  • Strong 500 watt motor is capable of moving heavier riders and heavier loads in the integrated racks
  • Weight is spread out from rear and kept low to the ground with battery built into downtube
  • Front rack is strong and very capable, deflopilator spring keeps it steady

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

IZIP

Model:

IZIP E3 Metro

Price:

$2,699

Body Position:

Upright Relaxed

Suggested Use:

Neighborhood, Urban, Cargo

Electric Bike Class:

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

Warranty:

2 Year Motor, 1 Year Frame and Battery

Availability:

United States

Model Year:

2013

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

55 lbs (24.94 kg)

Frame Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Frame Sizes:

17 in (43.18 cm)18 in (45.72 cm)20 in (50.8 cm)

Frame Types:

Step-Thru, High-Step

Frame Colors:

Gray with Orange Accents, Black with Blue Accents, Black with Teal Accents

Frame Fork Details:

Unicrown Aluminum with Disc Brake Mounts

Attachment Points:

Rear Rack Bosses, Front Rack Bosses, Bottle Cage Bosses

Gearing Details:

7 Speed 1x7 Shimano Acera

Pedals:

Aluminum Alloy Platform with Rubber Tread

Stem:

Adjustable Angle

Handlebar:

High-Rise

Brake Details:

Avid BB5 Mechanical Disc

Grips:

Dual Density

Saddle:

Velo Suspension Comfort

Seat Post:

Micro-Adjust with Suspension Shock

Rims:

Aluminum Alloy Double Wall

Spokes:

Stainless Steel

Tire Brand:

Currie Comfort, 26" x 2.00"

Wheel Sizes:

26 in (66.04cm)

Tube Details:

Pre-Slimed

Accessories:

Chain Guide, Double Leg Kickstand, Removable Front Porteur Rack, Welded Rear Rack with Bamboo Platform

Other:

Quick Release Front Wheel, Battery is Not Removable

Electronic Details

Motor Brand:

8Fun

Motor Type:

Rear-Mounted Geared Hub
Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

500 watts

Motor Torque:

40 Newton meters (Nominal 18 Nm)

Battery Voltage:

36 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

10 ah

Battery Watt Hours:

360 wh

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-ion

Charge Time:

5 hours

Estimated Min Range:

20 miles (32 km)

Estimated Max Range:

35 miles (56 km)

Display Type:

LED Console

Readouts:

3 Levels of Pedal Assist (Low, Medium, High), PAS and Tag, 5 Levels of Battery Capacity

Drive Mode:

Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist, Twist Throttle

Top Speed:

20 mph (32 kph)


Written Review

Please note, this review is for the older 2013 version of the IZIP E3 Metro that had a downtube mounted battery pack. The newest version of this bike has a removable battery pack that is located just behind the seat post tube. This is still a wonderful ebike and you may have the opportunity to buy it at a garage sale or at a discount at your local shop. Be sure to offer less than the suggested price listed in the spec above and consider that the battery pack may be harder to replace or already somewhat degraded if it is used. This can be an expensive upgrade at $500+ so build that into your offer. Okay, on with the review!

The IZIP E3 Metro combines a powerful 500 watt motor with mid sized 36 volt Lithium battery pack to help you carry groceries or other goods with ease. The primary feature of this bike is its sturdy front basket with matching rear rack. A “deflopilator” spring is even built in to help with steering and parking under load. The bike itself weighs in at 55lbs and is built sturdy with thick metal tubing. And it offers oversized Avid BB disc brakes on the front and rear to make sure stopping won’t be a problem.

The E3 Metro stands apart from other IZIP electric bikes in two big ways. First, it offers a 500 watt geared hub motor. That’s a big step up from the 250 and 350 watt motors most of their bikes use. If you’re a heavier rider, or someone looking to pull a trailer or actually use the front and rear rack you’ll need that power. If you care about power but don’t need the rack, check out the IZIP Zuma which is a little cheaper. The second differentiating feature of this bike is the solid tubing and low mounted battery. Some of the lower end IZIP bikes use bolt on racks and actually mount their batteries up high in the rear. This creates imbalance and will rattle over time. The E3 Metro by contrast, keeps the weight low to the ground and all of the racks are super thick with the rear rack being welded right onto the frame!

The battery pack on this bike offers 36 volts of power and 10 amp hours for range. That’s about average in terms of power and range but what really stands out is the year warranty! All IZIP bikes offer this benefit and it’s worth considering here because the battery is enclosed in the downtube and less easy to remove. That means it may be exposed to more environmental and temperature related hazards. I’m not actually a huge fan of this design but given the benefits of low center of gravity, I’d say it’s better than a rear mounted cell. So, you can’t upgrade the battery, replacing it may be tricky and require a shops help but overall it works well and would be harder to steal.

Whether you want an electric bike that performs more like a scooter (where you twist the throttle to go) or want something to boost your own pedal power (pedal assist) this bike will perform very well. The controller system works with a fancy LCD computer that mounts right to the handlebars and tells you things like speed, range and time. It’s a neat system and since you can easily take it off, it offers another hedge against vandalism or theft of the bike. One thing I would have liked to see here however are some integrated lights since “metropolitan” areas usually involve cars and some street riding situations where lights are required. It’s easy enough to use aftermarket lights but then they have to be charged separately and removed when the bike is parked.

Ride quality on the E3 Metro is decent and the adjustable upright style handlebars and seat post shock really help to relax the back and neck when riding. There’s no front shock here but that helps to keep the bike lightweight and less expensive. The bike also includes heavy duty flat-resistant tires that come pre-Slimed and the front chain ring has a built in plastic guide to keep the chain from falling off. All in all, this bike offers good ride quality with decent features but misses on lights, fenders and removable battery pack. Still, it’s one of the only ebikes with a front basket built in and the wood trim looks very nice. It’s available in low step and high step as well so you can fit your riding style.

Pros:

  • Weight is distributed well front to rear with battery pack on the downtube
  • Strong 500 wat geared rear hub motor performs well for heavier riders or heavier loads of cargo
  • Beautiful matching front basket and rear rack with wood accents
  • Advanced LCD display unit tells you speed and battery life and is easily removable for parking security
  • Heavy duty aluminum frame and racks, rear rack is welded directly to frame
  • Several nice color choices, bike is available in step-through and high-step “diamond” style
  • Solid front and rear disc brakes provide ample stopping power under load
  • Pre-Slimed tires are also extra thick to help avoid sticker flats but keep them inflated to avoid pinch flats
  • Seat post shock helps to reduce bumps but there are no shocks on this bike
  • Upright positioning with adjustable neck is good for “heads up” riding in crowded metropolitan environments
  • Includes braze-on threaded holes for mounting a water bottle cage

Cons:

  • No lights or fenders built in
  • Battery is not removable and may be tricky to service or replace
  • LCD computer is neat but somewhat oversized and awkward
  • Rear rack is solid but the large tubing size makes it harder to use with standard sized pannier clips
  • Base of downtube is plastic with wires running out, seems exposed and vulnerable
  • Battery pack is medium sized, would be nice to have a 48 volt upgrade for increased power

Resources:

More IZIP Reviews

IZIP E3 Brio Review

  • MSRP: $1,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

All new for 2019, the IZIP E3 Brio is an affordable and lightweight commuter with a lot of included goodies, an SR Suntour rear hub-motor, two frame styles and two color options, and an entry level price point. 7 speed Shimano derailleur, mechanical disc brakes, integrated fenders, battery integrated lights, adjustable rear rack,…...

IZIP E3 Edge Review

  • MSRP: $1,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

An affordable entry level hardtail mountain mid-drive ebike that is at home on the streets and trails, priced at $1,999 and legal for all Class 1 jurisdictions. Comes in a mid-step and high-step, two different colors (black with yellow accents or blue…...

IZIP E3 Loma Review

  • MSRP: $1,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A new and unique frame for 2019 that is striking and comes in two frame sizes, each with a different wheel size, both really look great in the two colors and reflective accents available. Some key features like battery intergraded front and rear lights, a throttle, and a battery…...

IZIP E3 Simi Review

  • MSRP: $1,599
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

All new for 2019, the IZIP E3 Simi is an affordable and lightweight cruiser with comfortable riding position and an SR Suntour rear hub motor, two frame styles and two color options, and an entry level price point. Mechanical disc brakes, paint matched steel frame, integrated lights, rear rack, comfortable riding geometry, swept…...

IZIP E3 TRLZ Review

  • MSRP: $1,599
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A value-priced hardtail electric mountain bike with basic 100mm SR Suntour spring suspension fork and knobby Vee Rubber tires, no lockout or preload adjust, no puncture protection or tubeless setup. Available in three frame sizes and two frame styles, I like the mid-step frame because…...

IZIP E3 Vida Review

  • MSRP: $2,749
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A relatively lightweight, approachable, comfortable cruiser electric bike, oversized saddle and padded grips dampen vibration, available in two colorways and three frame sizes to fit style preferences and body types. 26-inch wheels lower the frame height and provide more strength than 700c, high-volume 2.4-inch Schwalbe…...

IZIP E3 Moda Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

An urban oriented speed pedelec, capable of 28 mph pedal-assisted speeds, complete with wide alloy fenders, a streamlined rear rack, and integrated LED lights. Powerful hydraulic disc brakes with adjustable levers, the front rotor is larger at 180mm and…...

IZIP E3 Peak DS Review

  • MSRP: $3,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A full suspension trail style electric bike with 130 mm travel, purpose-built frame comes in two sizes with internally routed cables, custom motor integration, sturdy Boost hub spacing. Nimble 2.6" plus sized tires balance traction, stability, and comfort with precision, control, and weight…...

IZIP E3 Zuma Review

  • MSRP: $1,899
  • MODEL YEAR: 2018

A value-priced cruiser from a larger trusted company, available in a high-step and mid-step frame styles with one color pattern for each (white or metallic gray). Efficient mid-drive motor keeps weight low and center, the battery clicks in from the left…...

IZIP E3 ProTour Review

  • MSRP: $3,299
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

An efficient, feature-complete, speed pedelec capable of ~28 mph top speed with excellent frame balance but limited suspension and comfort options. Alloy fenders and minimalist rear rack stay quiet on bumpy terrain, an alloy chain guide…...

IZIP E3 Peak+ Review

  • MSRP: $3,099
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A mean looking cross country style hardtail electric mountain bike, beautifully integrated battery pack and motor keep weight low and center, has rear-rack bosses!. Locking removable battery pack can be charged on or off the bike, the display is…...

IZIP E3 Dash Review

  • MSRP: $2,599
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A value-priced urban electric bike that includes fenders, integrated LED lights, a rear rack, and hydraulic disc brakes, it's available in three frame sizes but only high-step. This is a high-speed Class 3 ebike that can reach ~28 mph assisted and because…...

IZIP E3 Sumo Review

  • MSRP: $3,199
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A rigid electric fat bike with provisions for front and rear racks, available in two frame sizes for improved fit, designed with a steep top tube for comfortable stand over and steadying. Beautifully integrated Bosch Performance Line CX motor and battery pack, downtube is cut away and…...

IZIP E3 Go Review

  • MSRP: $2,599
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A purpose-built electric tricycle with efficient and well-balanced middrive motor system, powerful 48 volt battery and optional second battery bay for increased range, rear wheel drive offers good traction. Comfortable swept-back handlebar with ergonomic grips, massive padded saddle with springs and hybrid tires keep…...

2017 IZIP E3 Peak DS Review

  • MSRP: $4,199
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A value-driven full suspension electric cross country mountain bike with higher end drive system and components from Bosch, SRAM and RockShox, it's $300 cheaper than prior year with lots of upgrades. Beautiful hydroformed frame with inset battery mount and tapered head tube, the motor hangs down…...

2016 IZIP E3 ProTour Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

One of the coolest looking, most feature rich high-speed electric bicycles I've tested... the battery is beautifully integrated and the small motor stays almost completely hidden behind the chainring. Pedal assist gets you 28 mph using speed, cadence and torque sensing and you can…...

2016 IZIP E3 Sumo Review

  • MSRP: $3,099
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

One of the lighter weight, higher powered and more affordable off-road capable fat bikes I've tested, you get 15 mm and 12 mm thru-axles with quick release and punched out rims. Sturdy Shimano M396 hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, no motor inhibitors in the levers…...

IZIP E3 Peak Review

  • MSRP: $2,799
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

A 650B hardtail trail or mountain ebike with a powerful 73 Nm mid-drive motor, it's one of the quieter motors but less responsive (mostly cadence sensing) and no shift sensing. Nice 180 mm hydraulic disc brakes, quick release for both wheels and a 15 mm…...

2016 IZIP E3 Dash Review

  • MSRP: $2,599
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

A feature complete speed pedelec (capable of ~28 mph top speeds) with a high torque mid-drive motor from TranzX. Quality full length plastic fenders from SKS with integrated mud flaps, mid-level suspension fork with…...

IZIP E3 Path+ Review

  • MSRP: $2,299
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

An efficient, light weight commuter electric bike available in two frame sizes and high-step or step-thru styles, the adjustable stem and swept back bars support a surprisingly comfortable upright body position. Narrower tires, firm saddle and all-Aluminum frame and fork provide great power transfer when pedaling…...

IZIP E3 Vibe+ Review

  • MSRP: $1,799
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

An approachable electric bike with deep low-step frame, adjustable stem, swept back handle bars and a large comfortable saddle. Simple linear pull brakes work well and are easy to adjust, quick release skewers on…...

2016 IZIP E3 Zuma Review

  • MSRP: $2,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016

A high powered, cruiser style electric bike with four levels of zippy pedal assist and a twist throttle drive mode. Available in two high-step sizes (18" and 20") and one step-thru (18") for easier mounting,…...

2015 IZIP E3 Sumo Review

  • MSRP: $3,650
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

One of the only fat tire style electric bikes I've tested to date that is legally capable of 25+ mph top speeds in pedal assist mode. Good value considering the custom fat frame in two sizes, solid warranty and availability, hydraulic…...

2015 IZIP E3 Peak DS Review

  • MSRP: $4,500
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

Full suspension electric bike with powerful mid-drive motor for effective climbing and balanced weight, higher ~28 mph top speed. Removable battery pack and quick release wheels make charging and servicing convient, reduce weight when…...

2015 IZIP E3 Peak Review

  • MSRP: $3,100
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

Hardtail trail-ready electric bike with powerful centerdrive motor for effective climbing and balanced weight, ~28 mph top speed. Removable battery pack for convenient charging and reduced transport weight, lockout suspension fork by RockShox…...

2015 IZIP E3 Zuma Review

  • MSRP: $2,550
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

Cruiser style electric bike with two frame styles, two frame sizes, 11 custom colors and a wonderfully balanced purpose-built frame. Removable battery can be charged on or off the bike, optional matching fenders, rear rack…...

2015 IZIP E3 Path+ Review

  • MSRP: $2,600
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

Near-silent commuter style electric bike offering pedal assist and throttle mode, fenders and a carry rack. Comfortable ride with upright seating position, swept back handlebars and oversized Velo comfort saddle...

2015 IZIP E3 Dash Review

  • MSRP: $2,900
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

High performance city style electric bike that offers throttle mode up to 20mph and pedal assist up to 28mph. Comfortable ride with oversized 700x45c tires, suspension fork with lockout and updated Velo Street saddle...

IZIP E3 Twn:exp Review

  • MSRP: $2,900
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

A sturdy, highly adjustable city bike that's perfect for rentals or fleets. High torque 400 watt direct drive motor is quiet and extremely durable, encased in rear…...

2014 IZIP E3 Path+ Review

  • MSRP: $2,200
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

An active urban-style electric bike with near-silent motor operation and clean design helping it blend in. Strong 500 watt motor paired with large 48 volt battery that's removable and uses premium…...

IZIP E3 Metro Review

  • MSRP: $2,800
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Sturdy, stiff and capable of hauling cargo with the reinforced front basket and welded rear rack. Oversized tires, adjustable stem and seat post suspension improved comfort when riding...

2014 IZIP E3 Zuma Review

  • MSRP: $2,400
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Clean design with integrated battery pack improves balance, eight frame colors to choose from. Delivers smooth pedal assist and twist throttle mode for easy start from rest...

2014 IZIP E3 Dash Review

  • MSRP: $2,600
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

High quality features and well rounded drive system at an excellent price. Strong but quiet 500 watt gearless rear hub motor offers throttle mode and torque-sensing pedal…...

2014 IZIP E3 Peak Review

  • MSRP: $3,000
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Mid-level off road electric mountain bike with excellent weight distribution. Centerdrive motor offers high-torque, leverages rear cassette and makes servicing wheels and tires much easier...

IZIP E3 Compact Review

  • MSRP: $2,150
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013

Built on the industry leading Dahon single speed folding bicycle frame. Offers both pedal assist and twist and go throttle mode...

IZIP E3 Path Review

  • MSRP: $1,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013

An affordable, classic style electric bike with balanced features. Weaker 250 watt motor offers less torque but also weighs less...

2013 IZIP E3 Zuma Review

  • MSRP: $2,199
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013

Solid frame with oversized cushy tires and seat delivers a fluid enjoyable ride. Powerful 500 watt geared rear hub motor paired with 36 volt Lithium-ion battery offers torque…...

IZIP Express Review

  • MSRP: $2,799
  • MODEL YEAR: 2012, 2013

Ultra powerful and rugged long-range electric bike, originally designed for use by the Los Angeles police force for urban patrols. Unique mid-drive belt system delivers high torque for climbing and accelerating, speed pedelec design capable…...

IZIP E3 Ultra Review

  • MSRP: $2,899
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013

Powerful 500 Watt motor paired with strong 36 Volt battery for acceleration and climbing ability. Sensitive pedal assist mode becomes jerky when climbing hills but is otherwise very responsive...

IZIP E3 Vibe Review

  • MSRP: $999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013

Upright seating with high-rise handlebars, wide sprung saddle and seat post shock for improved comfort. 250 watt brushless rear hub motor works well with pedal assist or throttle mode for…...

IZIP Trekking Enlightened Review

  • MSRP: $1,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2009

Discontinued in 2009, replaced with the E3 Path which is sturdier, less expensive and features twist throttle as well as pedal assist. Designed to be pedaled, the Trekking Enlightened lacks throttle mode but features 24 speed, lights,…...

IZIP Urban Cruiser Enlightened Review

  • MSRP: $1,899
  • MODEL YEAR: 2009

A relaxed, comfortable and stable cruiser style electric bike with integrated downtube-battery that keeps weight low and center. Smooth torque sensing pedal assist is responsive but requires more care when working on the…...


 No Comments YouTube Comments

Be the First to Post a Comment

Your email address will not be published.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.