The Engwe Engine Pro 2 has emerged as a standout in the world of folding e-bikes, combining practicality with performance. Priced at $1,399, this bike promises a blend of fun, utility, and upgrades that make it an appealing choice for various riders. With its ease of transport and array of features, it caters to urban commuters and adventure seekers alike.
Key Features and Benefits
One of the standout aspects of the Engwe Engine Pro 2 is its portability. Unlike traditional e-bikes that often require bulky racks or trailers for transportation, this folding model can easily fit in the trunk or back seat of most cars. In fact, the only vehicles I’ve encountered that struggled to accommodate it were compact sports cars like the MGB and Miata. This feature significantly enhances its practicality for those who want to take their e-bike on the go.
The Engwe Engine Pro 2 retains the positive qualities of its predecessor, the EP2 Pro, but introduces numerous upgrades. It is designed to be an all-purpose e-bike, making it an excellent option for urban commuting or leisurely rides on weekends. However, it’s worth noting that while it can handle dirt roads and moderately rough terrain, it’s not intended for extreme mountain biking.
Specifications and Performance
At the heart of the Engwe Engine Pro 2 is a robust 750-watt rear hub motor, capable of peaking at 1,200 watts—an increase from the previous model’s 1,000 watts. This enhancement translates to improved torque, now reaching 75 Newton meters, making it easier to navigate inclines and achieve fast starts.
The bike’s gear system has also seen an upgrade, moving from a seven-speed to an eight-speed setup. More importantly, the transition from a speed-based cadence sensor to a torque sensor allows for a more intuitive riding experience, providing power assistance that feels more natural based on the rider’s pedaling force.
The upgraded battery system has seen a shift from 48 volts to 52 volts, with an increase in amperage from 13 to 16 amps. This results in a total capacity boost from 624 watts to 832 watts, offering a maximum range of 30 miles when using the throttle alone and up to 68 miles with pedal assistance. The 3-amp charger allows for a full charge in about 6.5 hours.
Comfort and Ride Experience
Rider comfort has been a significant focus in the design of the Engine Pro 2. The bike now features an adjustable front hydraulic fork and a four-link rear suspension, a major improvement over the previous model’s spring-loaded front fork and lack of rear suspension. This upgrade contributes to a much smoother ride, especially over rough surfaces and speed bumps.
The seat has also been redesigned, now thicker and equipped with springs to enhance comfort further. With its fat tires—20-inch wheels and 4-inch width—the ride quality is markedly improved, particularly when the tires are slightly deflated for additional cushioning.
The Engwe Engine Pro 2 is designed for riders between 5 feet 4 inches and 6 feet 2 inches, with a total weight capacity of 330 pounds, including the rider and any additional gear. The rear rack can support up to 120 pounds, adding to its versatility.
Safety Features
Safety has not been overlooked in the Engwe Engine Pro 2. The bike has transitioned to hydraulic disc brakes, offering better stopping power compared to the previous model’s mechanical brakes. However, the 160mm disc rotors are a slight drawback, as many competitors utilize 180mm rotors for enhanced braking performance. Given that this bike can reach speeds of up to 28 mph with a substantial load, better braking capability would be advantageous.
In terms of visibility, the bike is equipped with a front headlight and a rear combination light that functions as both a taillight and brake light. While it lacks turn signals, this is a common omission in many e-bikes. Notably, the bike does not come with mirrors, which is a significant drawback for street riding; however, Engwe offers accessory mirrors that are highly recommended for improved safety.
Unique Features
The Engwe Engine Pro 2’s folding mechanism sets it apart from fixed-frame e-bikes, making it much easier to store and transport. The folding process involves several steps, but with a bit of practice, it becomes straightforward. Once folded, the bike measures a compact 41 inches by 21.5 inches by 33 inches. Despite its 88-pound weight (with the battery), removing the battery reduces the weight to 70 pounds, which can ease transport.
Riding Impressions
Riding the Engwe Engine Pro 2 has been an enjoyable experience. While the throttle speed is capped at 20 mph, requiring pedal assistance to reach the maximum speed of 28 mph, this limitation is manageable for most riders. The motor provides ample torque for climbing steep driveways, and even without power assistance, the bike is easy to pedal on flat terrain.
The braking performance is commendable, though the desire for larger rotors remains. Overall, the ride quality is satisfactory, especially considering its compact size and design.
Accessories and Options
Engwe offers a variety of accessories to enhance the e-bike experience, including bags, racks, and safety gear like mirrors and locks. While the Engine Pro 2 is ready to ride out of the box, adding mirrors and a solid lock is advisable for increased safety and convenience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Engwe Engine Pro 2 folding e-bike is a compelling choice for anyone seeking a versatile and transportable option. At a retail price of $1,399, it offers excellent value, especially when considering the significant safety and comfort upgrades from earlier models. The bike is available in several colors, with the green option standing out for its aesthetic appeal.
When comparing it to similar folding e-bikes, such as the Lectric XP 3.0 Long-Range and the HeyBike Mars 2.0, the Engwe Engine Pro 2 holds its ground, particularly with its superior rear suspension. While all three bikes have their merits, those prioritizing comfort and versatility will find the Engine Pro 2 to be an excellent choice.
As the popularity of folding e-bikes continues to rise, the Engwe Engine Pro 2 stands out as a reliable and enjoyable option, perfect for both daily commuting and leisurely rides. With its blend of performance, comfort, and transportability, it’s worth considering for anyone looking to elevate their cycling experience.