Engwe P20 Folding E-Bike
A City Rider’s Dream (Almost)!
Today, we’re diving into the Engwe P20, a folding electric bike built for conquering city streets. We’ll dissect its pros and cons to see if this budget-friendly option lives up to the hype.
Transparency Notice: Engwe sent me the P20 to review, but as always, my opinions are unbiased to help you make an informed decision. Now, let’s get rolling!
First Impressions: Sleek, Light, and Folds Like a Champ
The P20 arrived securely packed and practically assembled. Check out my unboxing and assembly video for a detailed walkthrough [watch it here]!
Unveiling the unfolded P20 is like meeting a sleek, lightweight city warrior. The minimalist frame, with hidden wires and integrated lights, boasts a clean, modern design. Unfolding takes seconds with quick releases, and folding it back is just as easy, perfect for apartments or public transport.
The magnetic front axle adapter for carrying the bike is pure genius!
Part Breakdown: Power, Battery, and Brakes
The 250W motor packs a punch for effortless city rides. Don’t let the wattage fool you; the 42 Nm torque is surprisingly impressive, making climbing hills a breeze.
You can reach speeds of 25 km/h with pedaling and 31 km/h with the throttle (though the motor brand remains a mystery). The 36V9.6Ah detachable battery offers a decent commuting range and conveniently charges on or off the bike.
Speaking of range, Engwe claims 100 km on a single charge. In my experience (mostly level 3 assist), I managed 41 kilometers. Remember, range varies depending on weight, terrain, and wind. While 60 km would have been ideal, even with a depleted battery, pedaling wasn’t too strenuous (though the lack of gears is noticeable).
The P20 truly shines with its hydraulic disc brakes. These powerful, silent wonders stop on a dime – overkill for a small bike, but in a good way! They’re even better than the brakes on my Engwe M20!
Comfort & Features: A Mixed Bag
The P20 comes with a comfy mountain bike saddle, but after 30 km, I felt some seat fatigue (normal for most saddles). The adjustable handlebar allows for an upright riding position, enhancing overall comfort.
The controls are user-friendly, with a clear LCD display showing speed, battery level, and more. It also features buttons for pedal assist, turn signals, and a bell.
Features:
Frame: 6061 Aluminum Alloy
Weight: 18.5 kg
Motor:250W/42Nm hub drive
Battery:36V, 9.6Ah
Brakes: Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Belt: carbon belt
Tires: 20 x 1.95 Tires
Performance & Ride: Fun with a Few Quirks
The P20 delivers a responsive and comfortable ride from the get-go. The three pedal assist levels and responsive torque sensor make pedaling a breeze. The first level offers light assistance, while the third unleashes full power.
There are no gears, so some ghost pedaling might occur, but the top speed remains the same across all levels. Using the motor only (scooter mode) was surprisingly fun, and the top speed felt perfect for a bike this size.
A minor letdown is the fixed headlight that doesn’t turn with the handlebars. The integrated rear lights are sleek, and the turn signals and brake light enhance nighttime safety.
The 20-inch puncture-resistant tires offer a good balance of stability and agility, but they lack comfort and aren’t ideal for rough roads. The lack of suspension is noticeable, so consider a suspension seat post for a smoother ride.
The plastic fenders did a great job of keeping me dry on wet commutes, and the small back rack is a plus. The Engwe side bag I mounted makes grocery shopping a breeze.
At just 18.5 kg, the P20 is a lightweight champ, comfortable for riders between 155 and 190 cm tall, and can hold up to 120 kg.
A small annoyance – the long handlebar stem can get noisy, a common issue with folding bikes.
Price & Value: Affordable with a BK42 Bonus!
The Engwe P20 retails for €1,099.00 and comes in black, white, green, and a limited-edition red and black. It includes free European shipping and a one-year warranty.
Use code BK42 at checkout for a sweet €100 discount (also valid for the Engwe P20 Ace Limited Edition)!