Disclaimer: Heybike sent this product to us for free for a review. That does not affect our opinion about the product. In this article, we list both what we like and dislike. Read more about this here.
Introduction To The Heybike EC1
Have you been thinking about getting an e-bike but aren’t sure where to start?
The Heybike EC1 might just be what you’re looking for. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and packed with features that make riding fun and stress-free—whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or just cruising around for fun.
Nov 2024: Heybike is currently having a Black Friday sale, click here to learn more.
We received the Black model in size Medium, designed to accommodate riders between 160-180 cm in height.
In this review, I’m going to break down everything you need to know about the EC1. We’ll talk about how it rides, what’s great about it, and maybe a few things that could be better.
Please note that this model is exclusively available in Europe, and Heybike currently does not offer a similar version for the North American market.
By the end, you’ll have a good idea if this bike is worth adding to your shortlist. So, let’s jump in and see what this e-bike’s all about!
Key Features and Specifications
The Heybike EC1 e-bike offers a range of features designed for efficient and comfortable urban commuting:
- Motor: 250W rear hub motor
- Battery: 36V 10Ah Samsung battery
- Range: Up to 100 km on a single charge (I got about 45km on various terrain at the max pedal assist)
- Charging Time: Approximately 4–5 hours
- Weight: 19.2 kg (42 lbs)
- Frame: Durable aluminum alloy
- Gears: Shimano 7-speed transmission
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Tires: 700C x 40C puncture-resistant
- Display: 3.4-inch IPX6 LCD screen
- Maximum Speed: 25 km/h (15 mph)
- Maximum Load Capacity: 150 kg (330 lbs)
- Climbing Ability: Capable of handling inclines up to 10°
There is no throttle, because bikes with throttles are generally not allowed to be classified as bikes in the EU.
Performance on the Road
Taking the Heybike EC1 out for a spin gave me a good sense of its strengths and limitations. The 250W rear hub motor provides enough power to make daily rides easier, though it’s not exactly thrilling.
With a top speed of 25 km/h (15 mph), it’s great for urban commuting or casual outings, but if you’re used to more powerful e-bikes, it might feel a bit tame. In the EU, e-bikes usually max out at 25 km/h, so it’s not like it’s unusually slow, and most likely what you would get from other brands as well.
The rear hub motor on the Heybike EC1 is responsive, engaging after about half a pedal rotation and delivering a smooth boost. It only assists up to the speed limit set by the selected pedal assist level, and it automatically disengages if you exceed that speed. This is similar to the performance of hub motors on other e-bikes I’ve tested.
The motor is a bit noisier than other e-bikes I’ve tried. It didn’t bother me much, but it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer a quieter ride.
The Shimano 7-speed transmission works well for adjusting to changing terrains. While it handles slight inclines without issue, this bike isn’t designed for steep climbs or heavy-duty off-road riding. It’s best on flat or moderately hilly routes.
One key thing to note is that the EC1 doesn’t have any suspension, which might be a deal-breaker for some. However, the large tires absorb a fair amount of vibration, making it surprisingly smooth on gravel roads or rougher surfaces. It’s not as cushioned as a bike with suspension, but it’s comfortable enough for short stretches of uneven terrain.
As for range, it’s clear that real-world use doesn’t match the advertised 100 km. I managed about 45 km on a single charge, riding as a 180-pound male on the max pedal assist setting over mixed terrain. This is pretty typical for an e-bike in this price range, but something to keep in mind if you’re planning longer trips.
The brakes deserve a quick mention—not because they’re particularly exciting, but because they just work. The hydraulic disc brakes give reliable stopping power without any fuss, which is what you want when navigating traffic or sudden stops.
Overall, the EC1 handles well for city rides and light gravel paths. It’s comfortable and reliable for everyday use, but it’s definitely geared toward shorter commutes or casual riding rather than long-distance or off-road adventures.
Battery Life and Charging Insights
Battery life on the Heybike EC1 is solid for shorter commutes and casual rides, but it doesn’t quite live up to the advertised claims if you’re pushing it hard.
While the company states a range of up to 100 km on a single charge, I managed about 45 km, riding at max pedal assist as a 180-pound rider over mixed terrain. This kind of range is more realistic for most users, especially if you’re using the bike for hilly areas or relying on the higher assist levels.
However, I tested the Heybike EC1 in near-freezing temperatures with a bit of wind, which could have impacted the actual range I experienced. Cold weather can reduce battery efficiency, so the 45 km I achieved on max pedal assist might be lower than what you’d get in milder conditions.
The EC1 is equipped with a 36V 10Ah Samsung battery, which is lightweight and removable for convenient charging. It takes about 4–5 hours to fully recharge, so you’ll need to plan ahead if you’re using the bike for a full day.
The removable design is a big plus if you don’t have a convenient outlet near where you store the bike—you can just take the battery inside to charge. Of course, you can also charge the battery when it’s connected to the bike.
In terms of battery management, the bike’s LCD display makes it easy to track remaining charge, so you won’t be caught off guard mid-ride. However, keep in mind that range can drop significantly if you’re riding on hilly terrain, using higher assist levels, or carrying extra weight.
Overall, the EC1’s battery performance is decent for its price range and design, but it’s best suited for riders with shorter commutes or those who don’t mind recharging after every ride. If you’re planning longer trips, you’ll either need to dial back the assist levels or bring a charger along just in case.
Design and Build Quality
The Heybike EC1 stands out with its sleek, modern design and solid construction. Its understated look doesn’t immediately announce it as an e-bike, which is a big plus for those concerned about theft—e-bikes tend to attract more attention from potential thieves, and the EC1’s subtle style helps it fly under the radar.
The aluminum frame features smooth welds and mostly internal cable routing, giving it a clean and polished look.
Ease of Use and Comfort
The Heybike EC1 is easy to use, with simple controls and a clear LCD display that makes adjusting pedal assist, checking your speed, and monitoring battery life straightforward. It’s user-friendly and doesn’t overwhelm you with unnecessary features, which is great if you’re new to e-bikes or just want something reliable for daily use.
It features Bluetooth support, allowing you to connect it to the Heybike app on your smartphone. Through the app, you can record trip data, customize certain bike settings, and even share your rides with other users. You can also track your weekly riding stats, including total distance and time, making it a handy tool for keeping tabs on your cycling habits.
Comfort-wise, the EC1 has its pros and cons. The seat lacks suspension, so you’ll definitely feel larger bumps on rough roads. However, the large tires help smooth out smaller vibrations, making gravel paths and uneven surfaces more manageable. They’re not particularly wide, but their size and durability offer decent shock absorption for most urban and light off-road conditions.
Comfort is subjective when it comes to bike seats, so your experience may vary. Personally, I found it decent—not the most comfortable but far from the worst. On a 2-hour ride, I didn’t experience any discomfort or pain, which is a good sign.
One downside is that the front wheel doesn’t have a quick-release mechanism, which could make removing it for maintenance or transport a bit more of a hassle. Additionally, the EC1 doesn’t fold like some other e-bikes, which could be a consideration if you need a bike that’s easy to store or carry.
Overall, while the EC1 isn’t the most comfortable option for very rough rides, it performs well for short-to-moderate trips on a variety of terrains. Its simplicity and stable design make it a practical choice for everyday use.
Safety Features and Accessories
The Heybike EC1 is equipped with a good range of safety features and accessories to enhance your riding experience. It comes with a front light and a rear light, both of which can be manually turned on when needed.
The lights provide decent visibility in low-light conditions, making them useful for evening rides or early-morning commutes.
However, the rear light isn’t a brake light, so it doesn’t brighten during stops, but it’s still great to have if you’re often riding in the dark.
The hydraulic disc brakes are reliable and offer smooth stopping power in various conditions, including wet or slippery roads. This is particularly helpful for navigating urban environments or dealing with unexpected obstacles.
The EC1 also includes full-length mudguards, a practical addition for commuters who ride in all weather. These do a good job of keeping you dry and clean on wet roads. Additionally, the kickstand is sturdy and well-placed, making it easy to park securely without worrying about tipping over.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a quick breakdown of what works well for the Heybike EC1 and what could be improved:
Pros:
- Lightweight and Portable: At 19.2 kg, the EC1 is lighter than many e-bikes, making it easier to handle and maneuver.
- Sleek, Low-Profile Design: The understated design doesn’t scream “e-bike,” which helps reduce the risk of theft.
- Decent Power and Range: The 250W motor and 36V battery provide enough power for urban commuting and light off-road use, with a realistic range of about 45 km per charge.
- Smooth Ride on Gravel Roads: Large 700C tires help absorb bumps, even without suspension.
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes: Reliable and smooth stopping power for urban and mixed-terrain rides.
- Integrated Safety Features: Front and rear lights, full-length mudguards, and a sturdy kickstand are practical additions.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The Heybike app adds functionality, like tracking your rides and customizing settings.
Cons:
- No Suspension: The lack of suspension can make longer rides on rough roads uncomfortable, especially with the firm seat.
- Non-Folding Frame: Unlike some other commuter e-bikes, the EC1 doesn’t fold, which may be a drawback for riders with limited storage or who need to transport the bike often.
- Front Wheel Lacks Quick Release: Removing the front wheel for maintenance or transport is less convenient without a quick-release mechanism.
- Limited Real-World Range: While advertised at 100 km, the actual range is closer to 45 km on max pedal assist, depending on rider weight and terrain. As mentioned earlier, I tested the bike in near-freezing temperatures on a windy day, so it’s likely that it would do better in milder conditions.
- Rear Light Is Not a Brake Light: The rear light is always on when activated but doesn’t brighten during braking, which could improve safety.
Who Should Buy the Heybike EC1?
The Heybike EC1 is a great choice for riders looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use e-bike designed for urban commuting and casual recreational rides. Its simplicity and low-maintenance features make it ideal for:
- Urban Commuters: If you need a reliable bike for short to moderate daily commutes, the EC1’s steady motor, manageable range, and practical accessories like lights and mudguards make it a solid option.
- Casual Riders: For weekend cruises or running errands around town, the EC1 offers a comfortable and straightforward riding experience without being overly complicated.
- First-Time E-Bike Users: The intuitive controls, stable design, and moderate power make it beginner-friendly for those new to e-bikes.
- Riders in Need of a Budget-Friendly Option: The EC1 offers good value for its price, combining practical features like hydraulic disc brakes and Bluetooth connectivity without breaking the bank.
That said, the EC1 might not be the best fit if you need a bike for:
- Long-Distance Rides: With a real-world range of about 45-55 km on max pedal assist, it’s more suited for shorter trips.
- Rough Terrain or Hilly Areas: The lack of suspension and moderate motor power make it less ideal for steep climbs or very bumpy trails.
- Storage-Limited or Travel-Heavy Situations: The non-folding frame and lack of a quick-release front wheel may pose challenges for riders who need compact storage or portability.
Conclusion and Final Verdict
The Heybike EC1 is a solid entry-level e-bike that checks many boxes for urban commuters and casual riders. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and comes with practical features like hydraulic disc brakes, integrated lights, and mudguards.
While its sleek, understated design is great for avoiding unwanted attention, it also lacks some premium touches like suspension or a folding frame that might appeal to more advanced riders.
In real-world use, the EC1 delivers a comfortable and reliable ride on city streets and light gravel paths. However, its range—about 45 km on max pedal assist—is far below the advertised 100 km, so it’s better suited for shorter commutes than long-distance adventures.
Again, I tested the bike on a windy day with near-freezing temperatures, which likely affected its range. I’ll update this article in the future if I observe an improved range in warmer conditions.
The lack of suspension and a non-quick-release front wheel are minor drawbacks, but they don’t overshadow the overall value the bike offers.
It’s a great choice for riders who want a simple, dependable e-bike for everyday use. It’s not the most powerful or feature-rich model out there, but it strikes a good balance between affordability, functionality, and ease of use.
If you’re looking for a no-fuss e-bike to handle your daily commute or casual rides, the EC1 is definitely worth considering. However, if you’re seeking a long-range or off-road machine, you might need to explore other options.
Please leave a comment if you have questions.
