Retrospec has been in the bike game well before e-bikes became the obsession, kicking off their lineup with a small batch of fixed-gear bikes back in 2009.
Fast forward to today, and Retrospec has stayed true to its love for all things two-wheeled, expanding into a diverse range of bikes, from urban commuters to rugged fat-tire models. Their latest offering, the Koa Rev 2, brings their practical, rider-focused approach to the e-bike world with a blend of affordability and capability.
Now Retrospec delivers a wallet-friendly fat-tire e-bike with the Koa Rev 2, packing features like a front suspension fork and 4-inch all-terrain tires that handle varied surfaces with ease. It’s built for Class 3 speeds up to 28 mph and boasts a claimed range of 52 miles, all for a price of $1,499.
In a 2025 market weighed down by tariffs, this combination of performance and value makes the Koa Rev 2 a compelling option for riders seeking versatility without breaking the bank.
My Experience Riding The Retrospec Koa Rev 2 E-Bike
The Koa Rev 2 sports the classic fat-tire e-bike look with a thicker downtube for battery integration and those signature 4-inch tires. My test model came in Matte Graphite, a sleek dark grey, though a Moss Green option is available for those who prefer a pop of color; both share black component accents. While it doesn’t break new ground aesthetically, the slimmer frame tubing sets it apart from the typically bloated frames of mainstream fat-tire bikes, keeping things beefy only where necessary—around the downtube battery—for a more modern, streamlined silhouette.
The low step-through frame is a standout, making it easy to hop on and off, especially for riders returning to cycling after years away or those prioritizing stability. At 5’11”, I found the fit comfortable within the unlisted size range, with a hybrid riding position that leans slightly forward from the saddle toward the flat handlebar. This geometry strikes a great balance, feeling relaxed for daily commutes yet capable for off-road weekend adventures.
Comfort is a major strength of the Koa Rev 2. The wide, plush saddle—supported by dual underside springs and 1.5 inches of padding—fits my sit bones well with room to spare for broader riders. Paired with 4-inch tires at 15 PSI and an 80mm coil spring front fork, the bike soaks up road chatter and trail bumps effortlessly, delivering a smooth, forgiving ride.
The 500W rear hub motor is a no-nonsense setup that performs admirably. It’s quiet enough to avoid annoyance and uses a cadence sensor that engages power after a half to three-quarter crank rotation, cutting off when pedaling stops. While many fat-tire e-bikes opt for 750W motors for heavier builds, the Koa Rev 2’s 500W motor, paired with smart programming, holds its own. Acceleration is steady rather than explosive, building confidently as the tires gain speed. Flats are effortless, and hills are manageable with pedal assist, though relying solely on the throttle can feel underpowered on steeper climbs—a quick pedal input solves this easily.
The Tektro mechanical disc brakes, equipped with two-piston calipers and 180mm rotors, are a less common choice in an era dominated by hydraulics but perform reliably. They deliver confident stopping power, though they require periodic cable tension checks—about once a year—to maintain performance, unlike low-maintenance hydraulic systems. While hydraulics might edge them out slightly, these brakes get the job done and help keep the bike’s price down.
The Koa Rev 2 handles with a near-sporty feel, thanks to a steeper head tube angle that lends quick, responsive steering. This snappy handling complements the bike’s versatile, do-it-all personality, making it fun to navigate tight turns or weave through urban settings. It’s not a race bike, but it feels agile for a fat-tire e-bike, enhancing both casual and adventurous rides.
The Koa Rev 2 won’t win drag races, but it’s a well-rounded fat-tire e-bike that’s easy to ride and handles with a lively, sporty edge. With pedal assist, it tackles hills in my area without breaking a sweat, and its comfortable, accessible design suits a wide range of riders. For its price and performance, it’s a solid choice for daily commutes or weekend trail escapes.
Range
Estimated Range (from Retrospec):
- 52 miles
Real World Range Test Results:
- MAX PAS: 24 mi
- MIN PAS: 42 mi
Retrospec claims the Koa Rev 2 can achieve “up to 52 miles” of range, a figure that fits its budget-friendly build. Range estimates always come with caveats—rider weight, speed, elevation, and assist level all play a role, and brands rarely clarify their testing conditions.
To get a real-world sense, I conducted two range tests: one at the highest pedal assist level (PAS 6) and another at the lowest (PAS 1) to see the extremes of the bike’s performance.
In the PAS 6 test, riding full throttle on a mostly flat course, the bike carried my 180-pound frame for 24 miles before the battery gave out. After recharging, I ran the second test on PAS 1, the lowest assist setting, which resulted in a slower but longer ride of 42 miles.
These results fell short of the advertised 52 miles, which isn’t surprising given the bike’s cadence sensor. Unlike a torque sensor, which adjusts power dynamically based on pedaling effort for better efficiency, the cadence sensor’s all-or-nothing power delivery is less efficient but helps keep costs down.
For most riders sticking to short commutes or rides of a few miles each way, this range is plenty. However, if long-distance trips are your priority, double-check that the Koa Rev 2’s range meets your needs.
Power (Motor & Battery)
Powering the Retrospec Koa Rev 2 is a 500W rear hub motor. This rear hub motor is activated via a cadence sensor and it has 6 levels of PAS, PAS levels 1 through 6.
The cadence sensor gives its power delivery based on the pedal cranks ‘cadence so when you start moving the cranks, it will pick that up and when you stop, the cadence sensor will then do the opposite and have the motor cutoff.
While retrospect does not disclose the peaking wattage or the torque rating of this motor, it has enough to tackle hills in my area without any issues., Although as mentioned earlier in my rides, steeper inclines need the help of your legs and pedal assist, using throttle alone it can get bogged down.
The battery on the Retrospec Koa Rev 2 is a 48V, 500Wh battery that cleanly integrates into the down tube of the Koa Rev 2’s frame. This battery can be removed for off the bike charging or for security purposes, just simply use the included keyset with the bike to lock and unlock the battery from the frame.
Components
The Retrospec Koa Rev 2’s components align with its straightforward ethos—functional, reliable, and no unnecessary frills.
The frame is crafted from 6061 hydroformed aluminum, available in step-through and high-step configurations, balancing durability with a clean design.
The drivetrain features a Shimano 7-speed groupset paired with a 46T three-piece chainring, 170mm cranks, and a 14-34T rear cassette. This setup delivers smooth pedaling on flats and enough range to push past the Class 3 speed limit of 28 mph when needed.
Braking comes from Tektro mechanical disc brakes with dual-piston calipers and 180mm rotors. They performed well in testing, though unlike hydraulic disc brakes, they require periodic maintenance to ensure cable tension remains tight. Similar to a rear derailleur, expect to check and adjust the brake cables about once a year.
The cockpit centers around a 700mm flat alloy handlebar with a 31.8mm diameter at its thickest point. It’s equipped with lock-on rubber grips, retro-style mechanical brake levers, a bell, and over-the-bar index shifters. On the left side, a three-button control pad operates the display, with the black-and-white LCD screen neatly tucked nearby.
Screen / User Interface / App
The Koa Rev 2 features a straightforward black-and-white LCD display that shows all the essential ride data: battery level, speed, pedal assist (PAS) level, and odometer. Pressing the ‘M’ button on the control pad cycles through additional screens, including average speed, max speed, and more.
The display is user-friendly and remains clearly visible even in direct sunlight, making it reliable for all conditions.
Retrospec doesn’t offer a companion app, which suits this bike’s no-frills approach. Without complex tech like motor tuning, an app isn’t necessary. The setup prioritizes simplicity, delivering what you need while keeping costs down and the riding experience uncluttered.
Retrospec Koa Rev 2 Model Options
The Koa Rev 2 comes in both step-through (ST) and high-step (HS) frame styles, available in two colorways: Moss Green and Matte Graphite.
Frame sizing isn’t listed on the product page, which is a frustrating oversight. I’ll need to contact Retrospec directly to confirm details, as guessing isn’t ideal for buyers.
Standard accessories include fenders and integrated front-to-rear lighting, which add practical value for everyday rides.
Optional accessories include the Haul Wide Rear Rack, Retrospec Rover Trailer, portable air compressor, bike lock, helmet, and rearview mirror. With mounting points for a front basket, rear rack, and bottle cages, the Koa Rev 2 offers plenty of flexibility to customize the bike for commuting, hauling, or leisurely rides.
Is The Retrospec Koa Rev 2 Worth Buying?
That depends, but in today’s tariff heavy US China trade war, it seems like the time to buy is likely sooner than later as many brands have already raised prices on.
With that said, the koa rev 2 from retrospec brings a lot of usable features to the table in a fat tire bike, things like nearly 50 miles range, class 3 speeds, a workhorse of a drivetrain and the comfort of bikes priced higher.
Is it perfect? No.
Its cadence sensor is a bit dated in today’s ebike expectations, and the mileage results from my real world range testing left me a bit underwhelmed.
But, aside from those small issues? The Retrospec Koa Rev 2 brings a fun ride at an approachable price with a spec lineup that seems to deliver a reliable and stable ride.
Pros
- Approachable price of $1499 in today’s tariff-heavy market feels like a good value in 2025.
- Comfort for days thanks to the wide comfort saddle, 4 inch wide tires and front suspension fork.
- The Koa Rev 2 gives a no-fuss approach to e-bike experience by not having an app or data-heavy screen, instead, it gives you an easy to ride bike without complicated tech.
- The motor on the Koa Rev 2 wont win any sprints off the line, but its power delivery is smooth and measured which I think many riders will appreciate.
- The low step-through frame height allows for riders from all experience levels to easily get on and off without the dreaded balance game that comes with tossing a leg over a high-step frame.
Cons
- Mechanical disc brakes perform well but require more maintenance than hydraulic brakes, as cable tension needs periodic adjustment.
- My range test fell short of Retrospec’s 52-mile estimate, likely due to the less efficient cadence sensor. While it helps keep costs low, its all-or-nothing power delivery reduces battery and motor efficiency.
Reader Interactions