Heybike Explore Review

The Heybike Explore stands out as an all-terrain electric bike, sporting a Bafang rear hub motor paired with a 48-volt battery. This combination delivers 750 watts of consistent power, with the capacity to peak at 1200 watts. Accelerating to a top speed of 28 mph, the Explore falls within the class 3 bike category.

Operating in three distinct modes, the Explore e-bike offers versatile functionality: the first mode mimics a regular pedal experience, the second engages pedal assist to augment your pedaling efforts, and the third unleashes full-electric power using a convenient half-twist throttle. Enhancing flexibility, the Explore e-bike provides 5 levels of pedal assist, allowing you to tailor your riding experience based on your chosen terrain and preferences.

Having 26” fat tires, the Explore e-bike offers sufficient grip and more traction for a better riding experience.

The Heybike Explore has a peak speed of 28 mph when utilizing either the 4th or 5th pedal assist level and a top speed of 20 mph when using the twist throttle. It is classified as a class 3 designation.

The Heybike Explore picks up speed gently and smoothly. The e-bike gets faster gradually, which gives you a nice, comfortable push. And it stays steady as you speed up.

The Heybike Explore performs well with a 12% incline, especially with the help of the pedal assist. Depending only on the throttle might not provide enough strength for uphill slopes.

The Explore e-bike comes with a 48V 20Ah battery, allowing you to travel up to 55 miles using pedal assist alone. This comfortable journey maintains a relaxed pace of 9mph on one full charge. Although the manufacturer suggests a range of 70 miles, the actual performance is slightly different but still impressive. Keep in mind that the range also varies based on your weight.

The Heybike Explore provides a sturdy and smooth ride. The steering proved to be fairly nimble and agile, allowing for effortless maneuvering.

The power delivery is okay, although there is a bit of a lag in the e-bike’s reaction while using the pedal assist, but it is not a deal breaker.

The Explore e-bike did well in terms of weight distribution and riding stability as well. It is capable of handling loads of up to 400 lbs while remaining stable. It’s a useful function, especially if you’re hefty or carry a lot of goods.

Though the Explore e-bike has a single front suspension only, the inclusion of suspension on the seat post helps in absorbing the impact when riding the e-bike on off-roads, which provides a better riding quality.

The Explore e-bike features mechanical disc brakes with 160mm brake rotors on both the front and rear wheels. Equipped with motor and power cut-off levers, these brakes assist the e-bike’s motor during braking. While the combination of hydraulic brakes and larger 180mm rotors is ideal, the mechanical brakes perform effectively.

The Heybike Explore features a dependable single front shock, which is sufficient due to its added seat post suspension that effectively absorbs minor bumps while keeping the connection with the ground intact. 

The comfortable and soft saddle enhances the overall riding pleasure. The suspension offers a reasonable 110mm of travel, which adequately handles bump absorption.

The frame of the Heybike Explore is made from a strong and sturdy aluminum 6061 alloy. Weighing in at 77 lbs, the electric bike exhibits impressive sturdiness, capable of a max load capacity of up to 400 lbs. This weight capacity is a great feature. The step-thru frame design not only catches the eye but also adds to the bike’s accessibility. Additionally, the convenient frame knots provide a practical solution for carrying a water bottle during your extended rides. 

Considering the unique battery location, it gives a different vibe to the overall frame style and also makes it wider. If you’re on the lookout for a good-looking step-thru electric bike, you might want to check and look at this stylish e-bike from NIU.

The Heybike Explore electric bike is priced at $1,699 on both the Heybike official website and Amazon. While it may not be the cheapest choice available, I believe it is within a respectable price range. It is not overpriced when compared to the features and performance it provides. The Heybike Explore’s pricing is definitely worth considering if you’re seeking a nice blend of quality and cost.

The Heybike Explore’s step-thru design gives both charm and a sense of adventure and the ergonomically crafted handlebar design enhances comfort and usability. While the majority of wires are externally placed, their nice arrangement maintains a clean and organized look for the bike. The internal wiring is well-executed as well ensuring a neat and streamlined style.

The Heybike Explore’s battery adds a lot of convenience. You can easily take it out, which is great for charging and storing. This is something common for e-bikes, but it’s super useful. The battery looks different too – it has a handle on top. And to keep your electric bike safe, the battery has a lock feature. This is extra protection when you’re not around. Charging the battery fully takes about 6 to 7 hours.

The Heybike Explore has a colored LCD display right in the middle of the handlebar. It’s a bit small, but you can count on it. While it might not be super fancy, it does its job well. It shows you all the important stuff without any trouble. Having a dependable LCD is a plus, especially when you’re riding in bright daylight as some other electric bikes can struggle with that.

The Heybike Explore is equipped with 26×4” fat tires. These big tires are made to give you great grip, which comes in handy, especially when you’re going off-road. The knobby pattern on the tires helps a lot when you’re on rough paths. They make sure you stay steady and confident, no matter where you’re riding.

The Heybike Explore features a bright headlight. It comes with a rear reflector which might be better if it’s integrated already for added safety.

The Heybike Explore features an IPX4 waterproof rating. While this helps a bit with small raindrops and light moisture, remember that the electric bike isn’t meant for heavy rain.

The Heybike Explore offers a 1-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind and coverage for any manufacturing defects or problems that might occur during the first year of owning the bike.

The Heybike Explore comes with a handy set of tools to assist you in assembling the e-bike, which is a thoughtful addition. The e-bike comes with a sturdy rear rack, metal fenders for both the rear and front, an electronic horn, reflectors on the pedals and wheels, and a water bottle holder which is a nice addition that is not a typical inclusion when you’re buying one.

If you’re looking to compare choices, here are two primary alternatives to consider alongside the Heybike Explore, which offers similar specifications and features.

Heybike Explore vs. Engwe L20

When considering the Heybike Explore and the Engwe L20, it’s evident that both e-bikes are equipped with a powerful 750 W motor, ensuring a powerful and efficient ride for various terrains.

The Heybike Explore provides a top speed of 28 mph, allowing you to effortlessly cruise at higher velocities. In comparison, the Engwe L20 offers a top speed of 25 mph, slightly more conservative yet still delivering an enjoyable ride.

With a substantial 960 Wh battery, the Heybike Explore outshines the Engwe L20, providing an extended riding range of up to 55 miles. On the other hand, the Engwe L20 features a 624 Wh battery, offering a range of 40 miles. This makes the Heybike Explore the preferred choice for those seeking longer rides between charges. Both e-bikes share the same weight at 77 lbs, ensuring stability and ease of maneuverability during rides.

Featuring a single suspension system, both the Heybike Explore and the Engwe L20 still provide a steady and smooth ride by absorbing shocks and vibrations, but a plus for the Explore’s added seat post suspension. The Heybike Explore is priced at $1,699, offering the advantage of extended battery capacity and range. In comparison, the Engwe L20 comes in at $1,199, introducing a wallet-friendly alternative.

Heybike Explore vs. Aventon Sinch.2

Comparing the Heybike Explore against the Aventon Sinch .2, it’s evident that both e-bikes share a common motor power of 750 W, ensuring a powerful performance across various terrains.

Both the Heybike Explore and the Aventon Sinch .2 provide a top speed of 28 mph, allowing riders to experience a swift and nice adventure.

The Heybike Explore is equipped with an impressive 960 Wh battery, which matches the battery capacity of the Aventon Sinch .2 at 720 Wh. This capacity ensures a substantial riding range of up to 55 miles for both e-bikes. Both e-bikes share the same weight at 77 lbs, ensuring stability and ease of maneuverability during rides.

While the Heybike Explore comes with a single suspension system to increase comfort by reducing shocks and vibrations, the Aventon Sinch .2 goes a step further with a dual suspension system, providing an even higher level of smoothness on rides and adaptability to different terrains.

The Heybike Explore and the Aventon Sinch .2 are both priced at $1,699.

Let’s take a quick look at how these three electric bikes compare.

What stands out about the Heybike Explore e-bike is its impressive 48V 20Ah battery, which is perfect for extended rides, and the sleek and sturdy step-thru design that adds to its overall appeal. The battery placement is a notable feature, as it is seamlessly integrated without compromising the e-bike’s performance. It’s also convenient that the e-bike already includes a water bottle holder, a cheap accessory, but nice to be included in the purchase.

While the half-twist throttle performs okay most of the time, I do hope that its sensitivity can be fine-tuned slightly as it becomes a bit jerky sometimes, a little twist gives a strong power, which might be an issue for some riders. The Heybike Explore comes with a front fork, dual disc brakes, metal fenders on both the front and rear, and a sturdy rear rack, which is nice for an electric bike priced under $2,000. If you want to get this e-bike, you can find it on both the Heybike official site and on the Amazon page below. Also, if you want to see more choices, you can check out these top bikes under $2,000, under $1,000, or under $500.

How much time does the battery of the Heybike Explore usually stay charged?

The battery’s durability varies based on factors like how you ride and where, but typically it lasts for many years with regular use.

Can I ride the Heybike Explore without using a pedal assist?

Definitely! You can cruise on the bike using just the throttle without needing pedal assistance.

Can you fold the Heybike Explore for storage?

No, the Heybike Explore doesn’t fold up. It’s made to be a robust and regular-sized e-bike.

Is it possible to put a child seat on the Heybike Explore to carry my child?

Whether you can attach a child seat depends on whether the bike and the child seat are a good match. To be safe, consult the manufacturer or a pro before making any changes.

How does the Heybike Explore handle hill climbing?

The Heybike Explore performs admirably when tackling inclines, particularly with the assistance of its pedal assist feature. The e-bike is equipped with a 750 W motor that provides a boost in power while climbing hills, making uphill rides more manageable and enjoyable.

• Brand: Heybike
• Model: Explore
• Motor: 750 W
• Battery: Massive 48V 20Ah Lithium Battery
• Speed: Class 3
• Charging time: 6 to 7 hours
• Max Range: 55 miles
• Max load: 400 lbs
• Recommended height: 5’9” to 6’6”
• Package Dimension: 165 x 30 x 87 cm
• Rear rack dimension: 50 x 19.5 cm
• E-bike dimension: 203 x 64 x 125 cm
• Pedal assist: 5 levels
• Display: LCD Display
• Weight: 77 lbs
• Charging time: 6 to 7 hours
• Charging port: Output 54.6V 2.8A
• Bell/horn: Electric Horn
• Color: Military Green / Leather Black
• Fenders: Metal
• Frame: Aluminum
• Light: 4 LED headlights and integrated rear light
• Rotor: 160mm disc rotor (Front and rear)
• Suspension: Front fork suspension
• Style: Step-thru
• Tire size: 26” x 4” knobby tires
• Transmission: 7-speed Shimano shifter
• Throttle: Half-twist throttle
• Removal battery: Yes