Velowave Ranger
$1699 (Amazon US)
The Ranger e-bike is packed with a powerful motor and great features that give a comfortable and stable ride, all for a competitive price. Today, I will share my experience with the Velowave Ranger and give you a detailed breakdown of its features and performance.
Velowave Ranger Specs
*To ensure the most accurate evaluation, these tests are done independently with our rider. Please note that our results may differ from the manufacturer’s claims and are intended to provide a transparent and unbiased assessment of each bike’s capabilities.
Highlights
Performance Review
The Velowave Ranger’s rugged and all-terrain design makes the e-bike good for off-road rides. The Ranger e-bike’s top speed of 28mph certainly didn’t disappoint. You can have an effortless cruising along trails and tracks.
One distinctive feature that sets the Velowave Ranger apart from its counterparts is the twist shifter instead of the typical shifting method, which can have a mixed reaction for e-bike enthusiasts. While not the norm for e-bikes, this addition provided an intuitive and dynamic way to have on your ride.
The Velowave Ranger can provide 35 miles of range on pedal assist and 20 miles on the thumb throttle, which by the way is located on the left handle. You can enjoy riding the e-bike with just a twist throttle, a pedal assist, or a mix of both.
Weighing in at 75 lbs, the Ranger e-bike is still stable and smooth for all types of terrain. The 26” anti-skid fat tires offered ample grip and confidence even on trickier surfaces.
The Velowave Ranger has a powerful 750W Bafang motor which not only ensures a thrilling ride but also performs well on inclines.
Performance Summary
Top Speed
The Velowave Ranger reached a top speed of 28 mph while using the 5th pedal assist level and a 20 mph top speed with the thumb throttle. The e-bike falls under the class 3 designation.
Acceleration
The Velowave Ranger picks up speed gently and smoothly. It felt like the bike was getting faster little by little, giving you a nice, comfortable push. The Ranger e-bike stays steady as you speed up.
Hill Climb
The Velowave Ranger performed well with a 12% incline, especially with the help of the pedal assist. Relying solely on the throttle might not give you as much power on these inclines.
Range
With the Ranger e-bike’s battery capacity of 48V 15Ah, you can have a range of 35 miles using pedal assist only, cruising at a leisurely 9mph on a single charge. While the manufacturer’s claimed range of 50 miles is not the same as the actual performance, it still depends on your actual weight.
If you’re into all-terrain rides and want a reliable e-bike that can go the distance, this one’s definitely worth considering.
Ride Quality
The Velowave Ranger gave a stable and smooth riding experience. The steering proved to be quite nimble and agile, allowing you to maneuver with ease.
The power delivery was responsive, but there is a slight lag in the e-bike’s response when you use the pedal assist, roughly around 1 second.
Considering weight distribution and ride stability, the Ranger e-bike performed well too. It can handle up to 330 lbs of weight and can still maintain its stability admirably. It’s a nice feature, especially if you’re a tall or heavy rider.
Braking
The Ranger e-bike is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes and has 160mm brake rotors both in the front and rear. A great safety feature is the motor/power cut-off levers, which help stop the e-bike’s motor when you brake. The hydraulic brakes felt really responsive and dependable compared to mechanical ones, and considering the e-bike’s price point, it is quite good.
Suspension
The Velowave Ranger has a single front shock only which is not an issue since it’s paired with fat tires. It adds to the overall comfort of the ride. The e-bike does have a seat post suspension too, enhancing the smoothness of the journey.
The saddle is comfortably soft, which contributes to a pleasant riding experience. The suspension provides a decent 110mm of travel, which is good. While there’s no rear suspension, a neat trick is that you can lower the air pressure in the rear tire to get a bit more suspension effect.
Velowave Ranger
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Velowave Ranger Features
Frame
The frame of the Velowave Ranger is made of aluminum 6061, which is a good choice. The e-bike weighs 75 lbs and can handle up to 330 lbs. The frame itself is good, and having knots readily available on the frame is a plus if you’re considering bringing a water bottle for your long rides.
Price
The Velowave Ranger’s price is listed at $1,699 on both the official website and Amazon. While it might not be the most budget-friendly option out there, I’d say it falls into a reasonable range. It’s not overly expensive, considering the features and performance it offers. If you’re looking for a good balance between quality and cost, the Velowave Ranger’s pricing is definitely worth considering.
Styling
The styling of the Velowave Ranger is quite attractive and adventurous, and the handlebar design is fitting as well. Most of the wires are external, but they’re organized neatly, giving the bike a clean look. The internal wiring adds to the e-bike’s aesthetics. One standout feature is the well-placed battery that complements the frame’s appearance. The overall styling of the Velowave Ranger kind of looks like the Snapp Cycle R1.
Battery Pack
The battery pack of the Velowave Ranger brings convenience as it’s easily removable, which is handy for charging and storage, a normal feature for an e-bike but an underrated feature. There’s a lockable feature that adds an extra layer of security when you’re leaving the bike unattended. The battery takes around 8 to 9 hours for a full charge.
LCD
The Velowave Ranger comes with a colored LCD display which is a nice touch, a little small but reliable. While there’s nothing particularly standout or extraordinary about it, I appreciate that it delivers the necessary information without any fuss. Having an LCD that gets the job done is definitely a plus, like when riding in broad daylight which is sometimes the issue with other e-bikes.
Tires
The e-bike has 26×4” fat tires. These anti-skid tires are designed to provide good traction, particularly useful for off-road adventures. The tire tread adds to their off-road capabilities, ensuring a stable and confident ride on various terrains. Whether you’re navigating through rough trails or simply seeking a smoother ride, these tires definitely contribute to the bike’s versatility and performance.
Lights
The Velowave Ranger features a bright headlight. It comes with a rear reflector light which might be better if it’s integrated already for added safety.
Waterproofing
The Velowave Ranger features an IP2 waterproof rating. While this provides some protection against minor splashes and light moisture, it’s important to note that the bike is not recommended for use in heavy rain.
Warranty
The Velowave Ranger has a 1-year warranty, providing assurance and coverage for any manufacturing defects or issues that may arise within the first year of ownership.
Additional Accessory
The Velowave Ranger comes with a handy set of tools to assist you in assembling the e-bike, which is a thoughtful addition. But not much of accessories are included. The e-bike doesn’t include a rear rack or fenders, which could have added extra utility and protection. If you’re looking for additional features like a rear rack for carrying items or fenders for your daily riding, you might need to consider purchasing those separately to suit your specific needs.
Velowave Ranger Alternatives & Competitors
If you want to compare options, here are two main alternatives for the Velowave Ranger with similar specs and features.
Velowave Ranger vs Snapp cycle R1
A few key differences stand out when comparing the Velowave Ranger and the Snapp cycle R1. Both bikes are powered by the same 750W motor, allowing them to reach a matching top speed of 28 mph. In terms of battery capacity, the Velowave Ranger boasts a 720 Wh battery, slightly behind the Snapp cycle R1’s 672 Wh.
For the range, the Snapp cycle R1 has a slight edge, offering 40 miles compared to the Velowave Ranger’s 35 miles. Regarding weight, the Snapp cycle R1 is the lighter option at 72 lbs, while the Velowave Ranger weighs 75 lbs.
Both e-bikes feature single suspension setups but still provide a smooth ride. Price-wise, the Velowave Ranger is priced at $1,699, whereas the Snapp cycle R1 comes in at a more budget-friendly $1,249.
Considering these differences, it depends on your priorities. If the range is what you want, the Snapp cycle R1 might be more appealing, but if you’re looking for a slightly more powerful motor and are willing to invest a bit more, the Velowave Ranger is a solid choice.
Velowave Ranger vs Paselec GS9 Plus
Both e-bikes are equipped with 750W motors, enabling them to reach a maximum speed of 28 mph. In terms of battery capacity, the Velowave Ranger holds a slight advantage with its 720 Wh battery compared to the Paselec GS9 Plus’s 696 Wh battery.
For the range, the Velowave Ranger offers 35 miles on a single charge, while the Paselec GS9 Plus offers 21 miles. Weight-wise, the Paselec GS9 Plus Plus is a bit lighter at 70.5 lbs, whereas the Velowave Ranger weighs 75 lbs.
The suspension setup is where these two bikes differ. The Velowave Ranger features a single suspension, whereas the Paselec GS9 Plus boasts a dual suspension system, potentially offering a smoother ride on varied terrain.
In terms of price, both bikes come in at the same $1,699. When considering these factors, if range and a single suspension suit your needs, the Velowave Ranger might be more appealing. However, if a lighter weight and dual suspension are a priority, the Paselec GS9 Plus could be the better choice for you.
Here’s a brief comparison of these three electric bikes.
Velowave Ranger | Snapp cycle R1 | Paselec GS9 Plus | |
Motor | 750 W | 750 W | 750 W |
Top Speed | 28 mph | 28 mph | 28 mph |
Battery | 720 Wh | 672 Wh | 696 Wh |
Range | 35 miles | 40 miles | 21 miles |
Weight | 75 lbs | 72 lbs | 70.5 lbs |
Suspension | Single | Single | Dual |
Price | $1,699 | $1,249 | 1,699 |
Conclusion
There’s a lot to appreciate about the Velowave Ranger. I’m a fan of its rugged appearance, which adds a touch of adventure to the ride. The unique twist-type shifter is also a unique feature but might be a deal breaker since it’s a twist type similar to a twist throttle, but it still brings a different feel to the e-bike experience. The suspension holds up well, contributing to a comfortable ride, and the inclusion of hydraulic disc brakes at this price point is definitely a plus.
However, a couple of improvements would make this bike even better. I wish it came with a fenders or a rear rack to enhance its practicality. Additionally, the visibility of the shifter dial, especially under broad daylight, could use some improvement. Despite these points, the Velowave Ranger offers a solid package with its distinctive style and functional features, making it a worthwhile consideration for riders seeking a capable and rugged e-bike. You can still have it but on a different purchase, which is another cost of money.
Velowave Ranger FAQs
How long does the battery of the Velowave Ranger last?
The battery’s lifespan depends on factors like terrain and usage, but it’s generally good for several years of regular use.
Can I ride the Velowave Ranger without using pedal assist?
Absolutely, you can ride the bike without using pedal assist by relying solely on the throttle.
Is the Velowave Ranger foldable for easy storage?
No, the Velowave Ranger is not foldable. It’s designed as a sturdy and full-sized e-bike.
Can I install a child seat on the Velowave Ranger for carrying my child?
Attaching a child seat depends on the compatibility of the bike and the child seat. Make sure to check with the manufacturer or a professional before doing so.
Velowave Ranger Manufacturer's Specs
- Brand: Velowave
- Model: Ranger
Type: E-bike - Top speed: 28mph
- Motor: 750W Bafang 1275 Peak
- Battery: 48V 15Ah
- Tires: 26×4” Fat tires
- Tire type: Anti-skid
- Height range: 5’6” to 6’4”
- Payload Capacity: 330 lbs
- Dimension: 76.3” x 33.5” x 42.5”
- Torque: 80Nm
- Pedal assist: 5 (Cadence Sensor)
- Controller: 48V 25Ah
- Display: Multifunctional Color-Screen Display
- Frame material: 6061 Aluminum
- Throttle: Thumb throttle on the left
- Pedals: Platform type
- Brakes: Front and rear Hydraulic disc brakes
- Rotor size: 160mm
- Derailleur: Shimano 7-speed
- Saddle: Comfortable and soft
- Fork: Front hydraulic suspension
- Crank Set: 52T, 170mm Alloy Crank