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The Engwe EP 2 Pro fat-tire e-bike claims to be a marriage of aesthetics and functionality, but does it live up to the hype? While it’s certainly not the bike for those seeking a traditional look, it offers a mix of strengths and a few areas where it falls short.
If you’re after an e-bike that can handle daily commutes, off-roading, and light mountain biking without breaking the budget, this model deserves a closer look—though it’s not without quirks.
What’s Under the Engwe EP 2 Pro Hood?
The Engwe EP 2 Pro arrives mostly assembled, which is convenient for those eager to get on the road quickly. However, that convenience might leave more hands-on riders feeling like they’ve missed out on customizing their setup.
Specs on paper are one thing, but real-world performance often tells a different story. Let’s dive into the details.
Battery and range
The 48V, 12.8AH battery is advertised as capable of reaching up to 50 miles (80 km) on a single charge, but this claim comes with caveats. While ideal conditions—lightweight rider, flat terrain, and the lowest pedal assist level—might hit that benchmark, most users have reported closer to 30 miles (48 km). That’s still respectable, but I think it falls short of the promise for those with higher expectations.
I found it charges in about 5-7 hours, and while the brand provides a standard charger, it’s nothing special.
The battery’s placement within the head tube adds a level of practicality and security, though it may also make replacements or repairs more cumbersome later on.
Design quality
At first glance, the design seems premium for the price. However, there are a few areas where corners feel cut. The handlebar grips, for example, have a slightly plastic feel that detracts from the otherwise solid build. On the flip side, the adjustable synthetic leather seat is surprisingly comfortable, even on longer rides—a pleasant surprise given the tendency for e-bike seats to be an afterthought.
The head tube design makes a bold statement, but it’s not for everyone. Those preferring a more traditional look might find the EP 2 Pro’s aesthetic a bit too industrial. If style matters to you, a bike like the Moustache Lundi might appeal more, though at the cost of power.
Motor and top speeds
The 750W rear hub motor is undoubtedly the standout feature here. The brand markets the bike as capable of hitting 28 mph, but in practice, it was around 25-26 mph (pretty high speed, regardless). For urban riders, that’s plenty fast, though speed lovers might find themselves wanting more.
The table below shows your expected speeds at the different pedal assist levels:
Pedal Assist Level | mph | Km/h |
1 | 6 | 10 |
2 | 10 | 16 |
3 | 13 | 21 |
4 | 16 | 25 |
5 | 24-28 | 38 |
Fortunately, the brand made some safety additions (discussed later in my review) that I personally liked.
Handling and ease of riding
The fat tires were great. They provided excellent stability, especially for a heavier e-bike like this one. Unfortunately, the ergonomic flaws of the handlebar grips became more noticeable after a long ride.
While the LCD screen is a nice touch, offering clear data at a glance, it’s not groundbreaking compared to competitors (for instance, the Bosch smart system).
My off-road exploration was not bad, thanks to the inclusion of the front fork suspension. This suspension system is basic, though, so don’t expect it to be awesome in mountain biking.
If you want a bit of e-MBT advice, check out my review of the Focus Thron2 6.8.
You get three different riding modes to choose from:
Riding Mode | Meaning | Battery/ Mileage Effect |
Throttle Mode | The motor does all the work | High performance. Battery drains faster. Lowest mileage |
Pedal Assist Mode | You alternate doing the work with the motor | Balanced usage. Fair to excellent mileage |
Pedal only mode | You do all the work (pedaling) | Unlimited mileage |
Engwe EP 2 Pro safety features
The company has done a commendable job integrating safety features, but there’s room for improvement. The anti-theft system, while functional, felt a bit basic. Requiring a key to start the bike and remove the battery is a good step, but it’s not groundbreaking in today’s market.
The lighting setup was more impressive. The rear brake light was notably larger than many competitors, offering better visibility. The front headlight was adequately bright, though not exceptional. The mechanical brakes were reliable and squeak-free, which is a relief given the speeds this bike can reach.
On the rider’s side, the adjustable mechanical bell was easier to reach. The bell was quite sonorous, so don’t worry about other pedestrians and drivers not hearing you.
Foldability and Extras on the Engwe EP 2 Pro
The EP 2 Pro truly surprised me with its practical touches. The foldability was a standout feature. It is not always simple, though, but it was easier than I expected. Unfolding was not too bad either.
The rear rack was another thoughtful inclusion. However, the bike’s weight might deter some users from fully utilizing this feature, especially when hauling heavier loads.
The ride itself was surprisingly quiet for a bike with such a powerful motor.
Should You Buy the Engwe EP 2 Pro In 2022?
The EP 2 Pro is not without its flaws, but it delivers solid value for its price. The powerful motor, respectable range, and thoughtful design touches make it a compelling option for those seeking versatility. However, minor drawbacks like the plastic-like grips and exaggerated range claims may cause some buyers to pause.
If you’re looking for an e-bike that’s adaptable, functional and well-suited for varied terrains (again, no e-MTB), the Engwe EP 2 Pro folding fat tire is a strong contender. Just don’t expect perfection—this bike shines in many areas but doesn’t escape a few rough edges.
If you have had an experience riding this Engwe model, what could you say?