Review of Riding’times Z8S Electric Bike with 1500W Motor and Full Suspension

Description

A Versatile Electric Bike with a Punch

Testing the Riding’times Z8PRO/Z8S electric bike has been a thrilling experience. This moped-style e-bike combines rugged functionality with modern features, making it suitable for all-terrain adventures. From the 1500W motor to the full suspension system, the bike delivers a ride that feels sturdy yet smooth. As someone who enjoys commuting and off-road escapades, this bike seemed tailored for those dual purposes. However, as with any product, it has its fair share of strengths and areas that could use some refining.

Design and Build Quality: Strong Frame and Long Seat

The design of the Z8S e-bike immediately stands out. Its carbon steel frame is robust, which gives off a feeling of durability the moment you hop on. I really appreciated the adjustable long seat, which ranges from 12 inches to 21.5 inches in length. It’s not just a nice touch for comfort but also ensures that different riders can use it without feeling constrained.

One of the highlights is the 20-inch fat tires, which are wide and grippy. These tires handled gravel paths, snow, and even wet roads with ease. The 6-level full suspension system, featuring two front fork shock absorbers and two seat spring shock absorbers, plays a significant role in reducing the impact on bumpy trails. Whether you’re riding on city streets or forest paths, the suspension absorbs shocks impressively well.

Performance and Speed: A 1500W Powerhouse

The heart of this bike is its 1500W brushless hub motor, which delivers a peak speed of 31 MPH in electric-only mode. The motor is powerful enough to handle uphill climbs, navigating gradients as steep as 35 degrees without breaking a sweat. I tested this feature on a hilly road in my area, and the bike powered through like a champ. The 7-speed gear system is another handy addition, providing flexibility for both casual riders and those who prefer a bit of pedaling.

The LED headlights and taillights were a pleasant surprise. Not only are they brighter than expected, but they also add a layer of safety during nighttime rides. If you’re someone like me who occasionally takes late-evening spins, this is a feature you’ll find invaluable.

Battery Life and Charging: Long Ranges for Long Rides

One of the biggest selling points is the 20.8AH removable battery, which offers a range of 40 miles on pure electric mode and up to 155 miles in pedal-assist mode. This feature is particularly useful for those who enjoy longer rides without worrying about battery depletion. I managed to ride well into the countryside, and the battery still had some juice left.

Charging the battery is straightforward, and the included 3A fast charger ensures you’re back on the road in about 7 hours. I found the removable aspect of the battery especially convenient, as I could charge it indoors without having to lug the entire bike around.

Positives

• Powerful Motor: The 1500W motor provides excellent torque and speed, making it suitable for challenging terrains.
• Comfortable Ride: The combination of fat tires and full suspension ensures a smooth experience, even on rough trails.
• Impressive Range: With up to 155 miles in pedal-assist mode, this bike is perfect for long-distance riders.
• Safety Features: Bright LED lights and dual hydraulic brakes add layers of safety.

Areas for Improvement

• Weight: The bike is on the heavier side, which makes it less portable if you need to carry it upstairs or load it into a car.
• Assembly: Although it’s 90% pre-assembled, putting together the remaining parts might be tricky for those who aren’t mechanically inclined.
• Price Point: While it offers plenty of features, it may feel a bit pricey compared to some alternatives in the market.

Peer Products

Comparing the Riding’times Z8S to other electric bikes, a few competitors come to mind. The RadRover 6 Plus offers a similar fat tire design but doesn’t quite match the Z8S in terms of motor power, as it maxes out at 750W. However, the RadRover does feature a sleeker design and is slightly easier to assemble.

The Super73 S2 is another contender. It leans towards a stylish, retro aesthetic and offers comparable speeds but falls short in battery range. While the Z8S provides up to 155 miles, the Super73 S2 averages around 70 miles per charge.

Where the Z8S shines is in its all-terrain capabilities. Its combination of a powerful motor, fat tires, and full suspension makes it a winner for those who demand versatility.

Bang for the Buck

When considering value for money, the Z8S manages to strike a balance between features and cost. While it’s not the cheapest electric bike out there, it does pack in features like a long-lasting battery, advanced suspension, and dual hydraulic brakes, which justify the investment. If you’re someone who prioritizes performance and durability, the Z8S is worth every penny. However, for casual riders or commuters who don’t need all these features, a more budget-friendly option might suffice.

Testing the Z8S has been an overall satisfying experience. The bike delivers where it matters most—performance, comfort, and safety—but it’s not without its quirks. For anyone considering a reliable and versatile e-bike, this model deserves a closer look.

Additional information