To run the forums, host the website, and travel, I charge a universal service fee for my reviews. This review was sponsored by Qualisports. My goal is to be transparent and unbiased, this video and written review are not meant to be an endorsement of Qualisports products.
So today, I am checking out the Nemo from Qualisports which is still a new brand new to me, but apparently they have been around for a while. They have been making bikes worldwide under a number of names, but the Qualisports brand is used for the United States. The Nemo is a cute and minimalist folding bike with smaller 16” wheels as opposed to the 20” wheels we usually see on smaller bikes. In addition to that, it doesn’t look electric, it looks quite normal. That is mostly due to the battery being integrated in a unique place, the seat post. That comes with its own pros and cons that we will jump into later, but for now, I can say the bike is incredibly lightweight. It only weighs 34.8lbs! And that is including that seat post battery! That is incredible, but then again, this bike will likely be designed for petit riders, so it should only make sense to have it weigh less so they can pick it up or cart it around. The bike is very approachable and somewhat of a mid-step… it comes in 3 colors, this satin red, glossy white, and a matte black as well. The aluminum alloy frame is rigid all around and doesn’t provide for any suspension or absorption of any kind apart from the tires and a slightly comfortable saddle that I would still however classify as an active saddle. You do get some comfort and stability from those small tires however. Being 2 & 1/8th inch wide really helps the bike feel more sturdy during the ride. Over the tires you have these nice black and sturdy steel fenders. Steel fenders are great but they can rust if the paint gets nicked or scratched and left outside over time. I do see some included lights which is very considerate, but I should note the rear light is not integrated, so do make sure to turn it off when you are done using the bike so you don’t waste those AAA batteries. The front is integrated which I love, and it is a Wuxing headlight that points where you steer. Looking around, there are some bottle cage bosses, a quick release on the seat post clamp, and a kickstand positioned out of the way to eliminate pedal lock when reversing (although I should not it is not adjustable length as shown in the video). The Nemo has some nice wire wraps, but it should be noted since this is a folding bike, the wires are not internally routed… this is pretty common since folding bikes need that maneuverability when bending so the wires don’t get pinched. Qualisports also has some accessories that go well with the Nemo; an optional $60 basket that can mount to the front and they even offer a bag for the bike itself that it will fit into when folded. Sadly, the rear rack is not available for this version as it will not fit on the smaller frame. This is a nice touch since there are actually places where you may transport this when folded where they require it to be in a bag. A lot of pilots and others have bought this as a last mile vehicle they can stow on a plane. As you know, airplanes are all about weight management, so something small like this is a perfect fit.. Overall the bike folds up quite well with some good locking points and can even be walked easily if you leave the seat post up. Other features include Velo grips (non-locking), a little flick bell, plastic chain guard, and plastic folding pedals.
Driving the Nemo is a planetary geared hub-motor from MXUS. The motor is 250watt nominally rated with a 12 magnet cadence sensor and throttle. The throttle for this bike is on the right as opposed to the other Qualisports that place it on the left. I love that the cadence sensor is sealed, that really helps keep road debris out, and I wish more manufacturers went with this setup. The max speed is about 15mph, so weaker than its 20mph siblings. The power ramps up kind of slow, but the smaller wheels do have a mechanical advantage to it as well. Overall, it’s a nice linear power delivery. It’s quite efficient, really a power sipper so its not so bad that you have a smaller battery. It may not be the best for long rage riding, due to the amp hour rating and that the smaller wheel base feels a little twitchy as well as bumpy because of the lack of suspension. However, the Nemo would be a great last mile vehicle for both students and commuters. The electrical system is rounded off with these nice motor inhibitors, another feature I love to see in bikes because it really makes the ride that much safer. On the mechanical side, the Nemo goes for a more simple and reliable single speed setup. It has a 14 tooth sprocket in the rear with a 52 tooth sprocket in the front. For stopping power, you get some 160mm mechanical brakes. Mechanical brakes are easy to adjust and maintain, however, the stopping can take a bit more accusation in the handle, especially for that rear brake. The brakes are from a generic company, but the levers are 4 finger brake levers with no rubberized edge, I have heard people say the non rubberized edges can sometimes make the handle cold to the touch if it has been outside for a long time.
Powering the Nemo is a 36v 7ah battery (252 watt hours), which is on the smaller side, but enough for the quick trips this bike is made for. What is really interesting is that the battery is located inside the seat tube. That aspect brings with it is own pros and cons… on the one hand, it is very discreet, clean, protected, and likely won’t advertise that it is an electric bike to would be thieves. On the other hand, you cannot change the seat post to a suspension seat post to increase comfort, and it limits you to just the one battery type and size. You can actually remove the seat post, the entire thing is removable if you wish to take the battery with you somewhere. The charging port sits protected under the seat front and faces upward from the tip of the tube, like where you would put a straw in for a drink pouch. The charger itself is pretty portable at 1.3lbs and charges at 2amps, which is a little slow, but helps maintain a healthy battery life. To really care for this and other lithium-ion packs, I have heard that storing in a cool dry location vs. extreme heat or cold will extend the life and try to keep it about 50% full when not using for long periods so you won’t stress the cells. Try not to let it run down to zero, because that’s really hard on the cell chemistry. I am told that the replacement MSRP for one of these batteries is around $290. That is quite a bit cheaper than basic battery replacement that is usually around $500, and way better than brand name battery replacement like Bosch at $800.
Controlling the Nemo is done though this plastic display mounted on the left. It is backlit, but is not removable as far as I can tell and doesn’t seem to swivel either. The controls feature a Power button as well as an Up and Down button for scrolling. Along with the speed here in MPH, it shows a 4 bar battery info graphic, with the outline of the battery logo itself acting as a 5th bar. So basically, it reads out in 24% increments. It also has readings for a timer, distance, and what level of assist you are in. Assist levels range from 0-5, but I did notice that 0 also locks out the throttle, so if you want to use that throttle, make sure to push the assist into 1-5. If you press Power lightly again, you can cycle through current speed, average speed, max speed, voltage, and odometer. Holding down the Up button will get the display to turn on its backlight. This also activates the integrated headlight too. Hold the Down button will active a walk mode. Finally, if you turn the display off, then back on, begin to hold down Up and Down together and you get a deep menu that lets you configure things like top speed, wheel diameter, and MPH to KMH. Believe it or not, you can go even deeper by holding Up and Down again and again to get into a series of coding menus if you really want to get into the nitty gritty. Qualisports also has a in-depth manual online for those interested. One last thing I have to point out is this really cool cruise control feature. Essentially, you can lock the throttle down so you don’t have to keep your thumb on it to keep going. Very cool and works well for a 15mph bike like this.
All in all, the Nemo is a lot of fun and surprisingly only cost $899! It’s not often you see bikes like this with unique features and aesthetics when browsing other affordable options. Another neat feature is that when the bike is folded, you can push the seat tube down through the frame and the lower part is sturdy enough to act as a chair leg so to speak, and it allows you to sit down on the seat comfortably while waiting for a train, bus, or just need a moment to relax. With all these unique features, there are some tradeoffs to consider. The most obvious is that there is no suspension of any kind. This paired with the high seating, high handlebar, and attack angle make for a bumpy and twitchy ride. Sam brought up a good point, you really want to test ride a bike like this if possible to see if it is right for you. If you look around the EBR site, you will notice there are not a lot of 16” wheels running about. This is because 16” lacks stability and feels more twitchy, so it may not be the best fit for someone closer to 200lbs. The bike really shines as a last mile vehicle, great for little hops across the way and getting in and out of transportation like buses, trains, subways, etc. The ability to sit with it, store it, and walk with it are great. And it looks good too! It’s got great locking points and there is even some folding instructions in the video review if you get a chance to check it out. I should also mention that the bike comes pretty much assembled from the the get go and you can even get dealer support. I think Qualisports did a good job here and I am excited to check out their other offerings as well and thank them for the opportunity to do so.
As always, I welcome questions and feedback in the comment section below. Whether you own a previous version of the bike, have taken a test ride, or are brand new to the space, my goal is to provide an objective and honest resource. You can also join the Qualisports ebike forum and share your own photos, videos, and review updates to help others! Have fun out there, and ride safe :)
Pros:
- Really just a beautiful bike, I love how the battery is hidden and out of the way, it doesn’t look like a typical electric bike to most people so it could deter would be thieves as well
- Smaller 16” wheels not only keep the bike light weight and easy to pick up, but maintain its ability to be perfect for petite riders
- When shopping for affordable bikes, you usually get some bottom of the barrel options, its nice to see the Nemo bring a purpose built bike with unique features and aesthetic to the segment for just $899
- A lot of times with bikes like this you have to go online to find them, Qualisports also has a dealer network so you can get established and knowledgeable help and service which is great
- Has some really good locking points and is a nice folding bicycle, that battery position is really is beautiful and it keeps the battery out of the way
- If the bike is folded and you prop up the seat post, you can hold the seat and guide it as you walk it and it glides straight with no problems
- The seat post itself is sturdy, you can push the seat tube down through the frame and the lower part is sturdy enough to act as a chair leg so to speak, and it allows you to sit down on the seat comfortably while waiting for a train, bus, or just need a moment to relax
- The bike comes pretty much fully assembled so you don’t have to worry about putting pieces together or needing complicated tools
- The display has a very deep menu section that will let you configure just about everything with the electrical system if you are a real tinkerer and want to get things just right, they will be posting a in-depth manual online with information too
- Some lights are included for both the front and rear, I particularly like that the front headlight is battery integrated and can be turned on and off via the display
- At 34.8lbs including battery, they really hit a home run in the light weight department, many use this as a portable vehicle, including pilots since they can stow it on a plane and not interfere with the weight
- The power delivery is nice and linear when using the electrical system and I am a big fan of motor inhibitors on brakes, so I am grateful they included them here
- Some great optional accessories are available like a front bucket or even a cover bag that you can put the bike in when its folded
- A lot of the features on this bike like the optional cover bag, the seat post chair setup, and being able to walk the bike when folded really help this stand out as the perfect last mile vehicle, this would be great for a student that has to take a tram to campus but still has a mile or two to get to class, or the subway commuter that has a long walk to his loft, you can tell they really thought out the design of the target user
Cons:
- The bike does not have any suspension or much comfort aside from what the tires can handle, it should be noted that you cannot swap out the seat post because of the integrated battery, similarly, you cannot swap out the fork either, I like this bike a lot, but it probably won’t be my top choice for a lengthy ride
- The tires here are nice but have neither puncture protection or reflective sidewall, also, there is no quick release on either wheel
- High speeds and bumpy terrain are not handled well due to the high seating position, high handlebars, and higher attack angle, add those small 16” wheels in the mix, and you get a very twitchy ride
- Because the tires are smaller, its not really meant for people around 200lbs, if possible, test ride one before buying as the 16” wheels can really affect if it is the right bike for you
- There is no slap guard on the frame where the chain rides along, I would recommend protecting it with an aftermarket neoprene slap guard or at least some box tape
- Some generic parts here and there like the brake system, plastic pedals, and plastic display, but that is to be expected since the price of the bike is so low
- Just a basic single speed system, but I do suppose this also adds to the lightweight and reliability categories, but you won’t have much of any pedal range
- The ride is a little twitchy because of the riding geometry and the bumps you feel, it really is best for short rides or as a last mile vehicle
- The included rear light takes 2x AAA batteries instead of being integrated into the battery pack itself, so it could be a bit of a hassle to turn it on and off separately, additionally, you could forget to turn it off and drain the batteries leading to having to replace them more frequently
- The battery amp hour rating (which effects overall range) is pretty small, likely because of the seat tube design, however, the motor is a bit of a power sipper, so that should help
- The display is easy to read and backlit, but I do wish it was removable since the rest of the bike hides the fact that it is electric really well
Resources:
Ramon
5 years agoI’ve been commuting on the Nemo for over a month now and have some thoughts. The target demographic for the Nemo is a small one; that is, the Nemo seems like a specific rider with very specific requirements. For me, it works exceptionally well based on my own requirements: last mile commute (2 miles each way), handle a mostly flat with one short (2 city blocks) incline, can fold down small, relatively light weight, and looks like a regular bicycle.
The Nemo is not a long range riding bike as the battery and motor aren’t capable of that. But for a single speed, folding bike to use for short commutes, it’s pretty good. I’m actually surprised that pedal assist at the highest level is almost 18 MPH. The ride is stiff, but the wider tires kind of helps unless you’re riding some really bad city streets. I made some quick mods to the bike; swapped to an Origin8 saddle, removed rack/fender, and swapped out the plastic pedals to quick release pedals. Otherwise, everything is stock.
All in all, a good niche bike and a pretty decent value if you know what the capabilities are.
ReplyCourt
5 years agoHey Ramon! I enjoyed reading your comment, thanks for sharing the experience and some tips about upgrades for the Nemo. It’s a unique bike, I’m glad it’s working well for you as a commuting platform. I prefer bicycles to scooters because the tires are usually bigger (and more comfortable) and they allow for more cargo options as well as different body positions to mix things up (standing or sitting). It will be interesting to see if other companies jump on and bring some mini ebikes like this one to bridge that gap between scooter and ebike :D
Replykmart64
5 years agoAre you able to adjust the top speed for the nemo? In Court’s review, he mentioned that “Finally, if you turn the display off, then back on, begin to hold down Up and Down together and you get a deep menu that lets you configure things like top speed, wheel diameter, and MPH to KMH.” I was wondering if you are able to configure the top speed (let’s say to 20 mph?). I know some other bikes that I’ve been able to configure the top speed, but that actually didn’t make the bike any faster ha.
ReplyPablo Molina
5 years agoI just got some kind of stripped-down version of the Qualisports Nemo in Medellin, Colombia (South America) for less than US $550, which is an impressive price point for an electric bike with its non-electric looks. For what I can tell after watching your video, my version only lacks the thumb throttle, the front and back lamps (only has reflective panels) and the “Nemo” sticker. Everything else seems exactly the same. I’m not sure if the battery is the same Samsung one because I don’t see any sticker with information, but the post looks the same with the height adjustment numbers laser-etched.
Does anyone know if I can get and fit the front lamp and thumb throttle button? As for the rear light I got the amazing Enfitnix Xlite 100 from Amazon. And for the Nemo sticker, some white-stripped orange fish sticker will do the job.
ReplyCESAR CASTANO
5 years agoHi PABLO. I have the same version you described, it arrived today from Bogotá. I really want to install the full throttle button (and maybe later the lights), and I’ve been doing some research. I’m not very familiar with electronics or mechanics, but I think this video might be useful. It’s a different bike from a different brand, but I think maybe we can do the same with a Nemo. The cable and the button can be found online. Have you tried something yet?
ReplyJairo Gonzalez
5 years agoI bought a Nemo qualisports here in Bogota Colombia a couple of weeks ago. The described autonomy was 45 km, but when tested these days, it only reaches 16 km without pedaling. I really like how minimalist the bicycle is, that makes it imperceptible in the eyes of thieves. The height of the handlebar cannot be adjusted very well, since the brake and display cables do not allow it. The friction when the battery runs out is quite high, which makes it difficult to pedal. The folding system is very good and fast, but difficult to transport because it does not have handles that allow it to be transported comfortably. The use that I give to the bicycle is to go to work that is at a distance of 8km per trip, and it really behaves very well, comparatively with a scooter I definitely prefer this bicycle. In the office I usually leave it under the desk which is very good since it is always with me ready to load. In general very good bike, but it would improve some autonomy and friction when turned off. If there is any way to solve these problems, I would greatly appreciate them.
ReplyCourt
5 years agoHi Jairo! Thanks for sharing your experiences with the bike. Yeah, sometimes the adjustable handlebars have limited height. I agree that it’s nice how stealthy the battery is, so the bike doesn’t attract as much attention. I hope yours lasts many years is not taken. I’m surprised to hear that you have experienced friction, because the gearless hub motor should freewheel without causing any friction or drag… All ebikes tend to be heavier than non-ebikes, so that could be what feels like friction… but it’s only ~15lbs or so. It’s cool that you can bring it in to work and hide it under your desk.
As an aside, years ago I had a girlfriend named Gisela who was from Bogota! We would go salsa dancing and she told me about Colombia. It sounds beautiful. Thanks for sharing your comment and where you’re from, it made me smile :)
ReplyVince
4 years ago1/3rd the cost of the electric Brompton.
Replyed
4 years agoI bought the Nemo a couple of months ago… then I noticed a noise coming from the motor hub, more of a clanking noise. I took a video and sent it to the tech support there. it seems that they acknowledge that there is a problem. They gave me a number to contact a local bike shop for repairs. I can’t remember how many times I called and left a voicemail, but never got a call back. So, they gave me another number, another (mechanic) but something happened, I never got a reply. I’m tired of calling and sending email back and forth, but that’s about it. So, I’m stuck with this problem. I hope the motor will hold up for the next couple of years, if I had to give them a review, I would give one star.
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Ed, that’s unfortunate about the motor casing. Sorry that none of the local shops were willing to help, or even call back! It’s not a part that is easy to fix… and I think many shops and companies are just very busy right now with backorders and pricing updates from their suppliers. I also hope that the motor holds up and that you can enjoy the bike, even with the noise that you seem to have. Good luck!
Reply4 years ago
It was for my wife valentine gift… hopefully motors not gonna freeze up and cause an accident. I appreciate your comment have a blessed day.