2016 IZIP E3 Zuma Review

2016 Izip E3 Zuma Electric Bike Review
2016 Izip E3 Zuma
2016 Izip E3 Zuma 500 Watt Currie Electro Drive Geared Hub Motor
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Promax Render 160 Mm Mechanical Disc Brakes
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Promax Swept Back Bars Led Display Ring
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Velo Padded Stitched Grips
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Plastic Chain Guide 12 Magnet Pedelec
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Seven Speed Shimano Acera
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Velo Urban Saddle With Integrated Handle
2016 Izip E3 Zuma 417 Amp Hour Samsung Battery
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Battery Charger With Dongle
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Electric Bike Review
2016 Izip E3 Zuma
2016 Izip E3 Zuma 500 Watt Currie Electro Drive Geared Hub Motor
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Promax Render 160 Mm Mechanical Disc Brakes
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Promax Swept Back Bars Led Display Ring
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Velo Padded Stitched Grips
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Plastic Chain Guide 12 Magnet Pedelec
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Seven Speed Shimano Acera
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Velo Urban Saddle With Integrated Handle
2016 Izip E3 Zuma 417 Amp Hour Samsung Battery
2016 Izip E3 Zuma Battery Charger With Dongle

Summary

  • 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, seven color choices including bright blue, Lime Green and Red
  • Large comfortable tires with Slime to plug leaks, solid mechanical disc brakes with motor inhibitors for safety, mid-level seven speed Shimano Alivio drivetrain
  • Throttle does not override pedal assist, the charger requires an extra dongle to charge the battery directly vs. on frame, two year warranty, new battery sleep mode

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

IZIP

Model:

2016 E3 Zuma

Price:

$2,499

Body Position:

Upright Relaxed

Suggested Use:

Neighborhood, Cruising

Electric Bike Class:

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

Warranty:

Lifetime Frame, 2 Year Motor, 1 Year Battery

Availability:

United States

Model Year:

2016

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

54 lbs (24.49 kg)

Battery Weight:

7 lbs (3.17 kg)

Frame Material:

6061 Hydroformed Aluminum Alloy

Frame Sizes:

18 in (45.72 cm)20 in (50.8 cm)

Geometry Measurements:

Step-Thru (73" Length, 22" Reach, 18" Seat Tube, 21" Stand Over Height), High-Step MD (73" Length, 22" Reach, 18" Seat Tube, 30.5" Stand Over Height), High-Step LG (73.5" Length, 22" Reach, 20.5" Seat Tube, 30.5" Stand Over Height)

Frame Types:

Step-Thru, High-Step

Frame Colors:

High-Step (Black, White, Lime Green, Blue) Step-Thru (Black, White, Lime Green, Turquoise, Salmon Orange, Red)

Frame Fork Details:

Rigid Chromoly Steel

Attachment Points:

Rear Rack Bosses, Front Rack Bosses, Fender Bosses, Bottle Cage Bosses

Gearing Details:

7 Speed 1x7 Shimano Acera, 11-32T Cassette

Shifter Details:

Microshift TS70 Triggers on Right Bar

Cranks:

Lasco CF-58 Aluminum Alloy, 44T Chainring

Pedals:

Plastic Platform with Non-Slip Tread

Headset:

VP Threaded

Stem:

Promax Alloy Quill, Gooseneck Style

Handlebar:

Promax Swept-Back, 600 mm x 75 mm Rise

Brake Details:

Promax Render Mechanical Disc with 160 mm Rotors, Artek Vigorous Levers with Motor Inhibitors

Grips:

Velo Stitched

Saddle:

Velo Urban

Seat Post:

Aluminum Alloy, Quick Release Collar

Seat Post Length:

300 mm

Seat Post Diameter:

31.6 mm

Rims:

Alex DM-24 Doublewall

Spokes:

Stainless Steel, 14G Front 13G Rear

Tire Brand:

Kenda Kiniption, 26" x 2.3”

Wheel Sizes:

26 in (66.04cm)

Tire Details:

30 to 80 PSI

Tube Details:

Pre-Slimed Tubes, Schrader Valve

Accessories:

Matching Steel Chainguard, Plastic Chain Guide, Single Sided Adjustable Kickstand Kickstand, Optional Fenders, Optional Rear Carry Rack, Optional Integrated LED Lightset, Optional Security Bolt for Battery

Other:

Battery Sleep Mode (After 30 Days Plug in Charger to Re-Initiate), Removable Battery Pack, KMC Z51 Chain, Quick Release Front Wheel, Quick-Disconnect Cable on Hub Motor, 3 Amp 2.2 lb Charger with Dongle

Electronic Details

Motor Brand:

Currie Electro-Drive®

Motor Type:

Rear-Mounted Geared Hub
Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

500 watts

Motor Peak Output:

650 watts

Motor Torque:

40 Newton meters

Battery Brand:

Samsung or LG

Battery Voltage:

48 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

8.7 ah

Battery Watt Hours:

417.6 wh

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-ion

Charge Time:

8 hours

Estimated Min Range:

20 miles (32 km)

Estimated Max Range:

35 miles (56 km)

Display Type:

Fixed LED Console Ring with Backlit Buttons on Left Bar

Readouts:

Battery Charge Level (5 Bars), Assist Level (0-4), Current Speed

Drive Mode:

Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist, Twist Throttle (12 Magnet Ring)

Top Speed:

20 mph (32 kph)


Written Review

The 2016 IZIP E3 Zuma retains all of the things I loved about prior iterations and improves the display panel by making it smaller and tougher but still easy to reach and read. Instead of using a plastic box with LED dots strewn across, the new display ring has rubberized buttons (that are backlit) and a smaller LED console with a battery graphic and number readouts. The other upgrade for 2016 is a smart sleep-mode built into the battery to extend its life. This mode goes into effect when you’ve left the bike alone for 30 days, at this point the battery hibernates and requires the charger to be re-activated (basically, just plug the battery or the bike in and the display should wake up).

My favorite parts about this electric bike are the upright comfortable riding position it offers and the fact that it comes in two high-step sizes, to accommodate a wider range of riders, as well as an easy-to-mount step-thru. The motor is powerful and zippy, especially in assist level four or when using the throttle. I had no problem climbing hills or reaching the 20 mph top speed quickly but did hear the distinct whirring sounds often accompanying planetary geared motors. I also love how beautiful the frame looks with its matching chain guard and optional rack and fenders. You can even get integrated LED lights which would be nice and frankly, I wish you got all of these things for the $2,500 price point but it’s actually $50 cheaper than 2015 and you still get a lifetime frame, two year battery and one year “everything else” warranty including the motor.

The Zuma is a great bike for zipping around the neighborhood and is the only model for 2016 from IZIP that offers the twist throttle with full power up to 20 mph vs. partial requiring pedal assist. There’s no suspension but the tires are relatively large, the saddle is medium-firmness and the swept back bar and padded grips are great. You get 160 mm mechanical disc brakes with cheaper levers and calipers but they get the job done and include motor inhibitors. Because this is a cadence-sensing pedal assist ebike you don’t have to push hard for the motor to start, only pedal consistently. For me, it hits the mark as a cruiser and I appreciate the little extras like a plastic chain guide to reduce drops while navigating bumps and a nice sturdy kickstand that’s black to blend in. Even the spokes on the rear wheel have been upgraded to 13 Gauge vs. 14 on the front, to stand up to heavier loads and the peak output of the motor (40 Nm of torque and 650 watts)

Pros:

  • Unique quick release system for the battery and seat post (which are mated together for easier carrying), I love the plastic handle moulded into the saddle and appreciate the optional hex-screw and bolt to secure the battery for those who want to leave it on while parked in public spaces
  • Bountiful color choices ranging from traditional black or white to lime green, bright blue, turquoise, salmon orange or red and the chain guard matches
  • Seven speed cassette has an extra large ring for climbing and the derailleur is mid-level quality so it should perform well and stay in true longer
  • Electronic wires, brake cables and shifter cables are all integrated through the frame for a beautiful aesthetic, though it does make shifting a bit more firm
  • Plenty of mounting options including fenders, front and rear racks or baskets and a traditional pair of bottle cage braze-ons
  • The oversized saddle offers good support and pairs nicely with the padded leather grips, vibration dampening steel fork and large 2.3″ Kenda tires, I like that the tires are pre-Slimed to slow punctures
  • Quality oversized kickstand with length-adjustment screw, the plastic chain guide should help you avoid chain drops, quick disconnect point on the motor power cable makes maintenance easier and the front wheel has a quick release skewer for easy maintenance or lighter transport

Cons:

  • The charger can be used to fill the battery on or off the bike but requires a special little dongle to work with off-bike charging that could get lost easily so consider zip tying it to the cable coming out of the charger
  • I noticed that the down shift trigger required extra effort and was told that the cable is longer on this bike (since it wraps through the frame) and this creates more friction
  • I wish the throttle had an option to override pedal assist, as it stands you have to click down to level zero before the throttle will operate
  • The price tag is decent considering the 500 watt motor and 48 volt battery but some of the other cruiser style ebikes come stock with fenders, a rack and lights while those cost extra for the Zuma

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…...

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...

2013 IZIP E3 Metro Review

  • MSRP: $2,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2013

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…...

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…...


Comments (5) YouTube Comments

Donny
8 years ago

Do you have any idea which rear racks will work with this bike? I own one and just tried installing a rack that doesn’t even come close to working (and it is supposed to be disc brake compatible and all of that).

  Reply
Court Rye
8 years ago

Hmm… This would be a great question for a shop that carries ebike and has had some of the IZIP models. Try contacting the Electric Bicycle Center and ask for Sam. He might have some ideas for you or direction. My advice would be to look closely at each of these disc brake compatible racks online that look like they might fit (just given that the one you have does not fit), some have more adjustment in their support leg length, height, angle etc. and up front with the arms that connect to the seat stay bosses. Hope this helps :/

  Reply
Alex
7 years ago

Where would you possibly get a replacement battery like this one? Also how much would they cost?

  Reply
Court Rye
7 years ago

Hi Alex! I’d recommend checking with Rechargeable Power Energy, they offer battery repacking services and actually do work for some of the big companies like IZIP. If you have the case, they just have you send it in with their special packing slip and then they work to put new cells in it for a reasonable price (it might be the only option if IZIP isn’t producing the same battery anymore).

  Reply
jloeffelholz
7 years ago

Need 40 mpg ….like some in EU!!!

  Reply

Post a Comment

Your email address will not be published.

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