Emotorad EMX+ review - A Pedal-Assist Powerhouse with a Few Quirks
Electric bikes have surged in popularity, offering a perfect blend of pedal power and electric assist to make cycling more accessible and enjoyable for all. The Emotorad EMX+ is one such offering that aims to take your riding experience up a notch, especially when dealing with varying terrains. I had the pleasure of testing this electric pedal-assist bicycle for a month, and after putting it through different conditions â€" from city streets to light off-roading â€" I've gathered some thoughts.
The EMX+ is not just a typical e-bike; it feels meticulously engineered. The first thing that caught my eye was its modern, sleek aesthetic. The foldable frame design is a major plus, making it convenient for storage and transportation without sacrificing robustness. It looks and feels like a premium product, thanks to the quality of materials used. The battery placement, too, is clean, with the battery seamlessly integrated into the frame, ensuring the bike doesn't look clunky.
The ergonomic aspect of the bike is equally commendable. Whether riding through tight city streets or cruising on open roads, the EMX+ feels balanced. The adjustable suspension is a standout feature, especially with its lockout mechanism on the front fork and adjustable rear suspension. This means that regardless of whether you're navigating bumpy roads or smooth asphalt, the EMX+ adapts perfectly, giving you a smooth and controlled ride.
Pedal Assist and Performance
Now, coming to the heart of the EMX+ â€" it's pedal assist. While the pedal assist works efficiently on flat terrain, it did show limitations on steeper inclines. During a 15km test ride, I encountered various terrains â€" from smooth roads to inclines, twists, and even light off-roading. On inclines, the pedal assist slowed down to around 5km/h, which, while slower than manually pedalling, did prevent the bike from coming to a stop. It's a clear reminder that while the assist can give you a nudge, it's still primarily a bicycle at the end of the day. That said, on flat and straight roads, the pedal assist shines. Just a twist of the throttle, and you're off, with the bike darting forward smoothly.
When it comes to speed, Emotorad claims a top speed of 25km/h, but during my tests, I managed to clock a slightly higher 28km/h. It's a small but satisfying difference, making the EMX+ feel snappy and responsive in the right conditions.
Handling and ComfortOne of the major selling points for the EMX+ is its comfort. The bike features Shimano Altus gears with a 21-speed drivetrain (7x3 configuration), allowing for versatile riding modes. Whether you're cruising through the city or tackling more demanding terrains, the gear system ensures a smooth transition between pedal speeds. The suspension system is also excellent, making rough roads feel less jarring. Whether you're riding on paved streets or light off-road trails, the adjustable suspension keeps you comfortable and in control.
Moreover, the EMX+ is equipped with a 100 lux headlight, which performs admirably during night rides. Visibility is crucial, and this feature definitely adds a sense of security. The headlight is bright and casts a wide beam, illuminating your path clearly.
The only thing I found missing was turn indicators. While not a dealbreaker, having indicators would enhance the safety aspect, especially when riding in urban environments with traffic.
Battery Life and Charging
The EMX+ houses a battery that charges quickly â€" just five hours to full charge. Given its 80km range on a single charge, it's more than sufficient for daily commuting or weekend outings. Over my month of testing, the battery held up well, and I never found myself anxious about running out of juice unexpectedly. In case, even if it depletes and you're tired too, you can easily carry it in an auto back home.
Display and Tech Features
One of the standout tech features is the full-colour TFT display. It's bright, responsive, and easy to read, providing vital information like speed, battery life, and the level of pedal assist at a glance. This may seem like a minor detail, but having a clear and modern display elevates the entire riding experience. It's an upgrade over the basic displays you typically find on electric bikes.
Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded, Fun to RideThe Emotorad EMX+ strikes a balance between being a practical e-bike for daily use and a fun ride for the adventurous at heart. It's compact, easy to park, and store, and doesn't overwhelm with unnecessary components beyond a regular bicycle, except for the additional battery and electric assist. That said, it's not without its limitations. The pedal assist could use a bit more power for tackling inclines, and turn indicators would have been a useful addition.
Still, these minor gripes don't detract from the overall experience. For those looking for an electric bicycle that delivers comfort, style, and a decent level of performance across varied terrains, the EMX+ is a solid choice. At the end of the day, this is one of the few electric bikes that truly feels like a finished product.
Available offline and online through Amazon and Flipkart at a discounted festival price of Rs 52,499 and compared to a lot of products in the market, I feel it's a great deal.
Also Read:
Emotorad Doodle V3 review - A Funky, Foldable Fat-Tyre Marvel