Damson R8V
$799
Now, you might think the R8V is just like any other fat tire electric bike but when you see its incredibly low price (currently $799 on Amazon), you’ll understand why it’s gaining attention in the market. What’s even better is that the R8V doesn’t compromise on quality or performance. In fact, it comes with impressive features such as a hydraulic front suspension, an extra wide saddle, a front and rear rack, and a mobile phone holder with USB charging. Let’s explore what else it has to offer.
Damson R8V 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 Damson R8V electric bike is equipped with a 48-volt 500-watt brushless rear hub motor (with a peak of 750W). It offers four modes of operation: regular cycling, pedal-assist, pure electric using the throttle, and cruise control. You have the flexibility to adjust the pedal assistance in five different levels to select the amount of power you want, making your ride more comfortable and efficient. The bike utilizes a cadence sensor to gauge your pedaling, which may result in slight delays in power delivery.
Performance Summary
Acceleration
On flat terrain, the Damson R8V electric bike demonstrated impressive acceleration due to its powerful 750W peak output. During my test ride on a smooth asphalt road with normal wind conditions, I reached a speed of 20mph in approximately 16-17 seconds. Once I started from a complete stop, the bike maintained a consistent speed throughout the ride. When it comes to acceleration, I noticed that it performed quite similarly to the Engwe M20.
Top Speed
The Damson R8V is originally designed as a Class 3 electric bike, limited to a maximum speed of 28mph. On flat roads and with typical wind conditions, I was able to reach this top speed, though it took me quite some time. Additionally, the R8V offers a handy cruise control feature that you can activate by holding the throttle for a few seconds.
Ride Quality
The Damson R8V electric bike places a strong emphasis on ensuring rider comfort. It features a well-designed step thru frame and a comfy riding posture. Plus, its 4-inch fat tires and front suspension fork do a good job of absorbing shocks from uneven surfaces and bumps. The R8V also provides decent handling and steering. While the cadence sensor’s responsiveness may not be the best, the power delivery is still quite impressive, especially considering the bike’s price. Additionally, both the saddle and handlebar are adjustable in height, adding to the overall convenience. The saddle is extra wide for enhanced rider comfort!
Hill Climb
In my tests, I discovered that the Damson R8V handled inclines reasonably well. Most of the hills I rode on were easy to conquer. However, I did observe that when facing slopes steeper than 15 degrees, it needed some pedaling assistance, despite the brand’s claim of effortlessly handling inclines up to 30 degrees. If we compare it to the RAEV Bullet GT, which I tested recently, the Bullet GT had significantly better hill-climbing abilities.
Range
The Damson R8V comes equipped with a 48V 15Ah (720Wh) Lithium-ion battery that powers the bike. During my testing, I was able to cover a distance of 21.4 miles using both the throttle and pedal-assist modes. My rides included flat urban areas and some moderately sloped trails. Considering the bike’s nominal and peak power outputs, along with its affordable price, the range is quite reasonable.
If you’re looking for an electric bike with an exceptionally long range, you might want to explore options like the Aniioki A8 Pro Max, which boasts a massive 48V 60Ah (2,880Wh) battery, or consider the Bandit X-Trail Pro with a similarly large battery
Braking
The Damson R8V is equipped with 160mm mechanical disc brakes, and also includes a cutoff feature that stops the motor when you use the levers. While I haven’t had the chance to perform a formal brake test yet, my initial impressions of the bike’s braking performance are positive. Although I typically prefer hydraulic brakes, considering the budget, the 160mm mechanical discs are still a decent choice.
Suspension
The Damson R8V electric bike is equipped with a hydraulic front suspension fork that operates mechanically, offering a level of off-road capability. This sets it apart from the Engwe Engine X, which boasts dual suspension. The good news is that the Damson R8V’s fork can be locked, allowing riders to adapt to various terrains or personal preferences. Additionally, the fat tires contribute to a smoother ride by absorbing bumps and shocks from rough surfaces, making the R8V a reasonably comfortable choice for urban riding
Transmission
Similar to most budget ebikes, the Damson R8V is equipped with a Shimano seven-speed chain transmission. Shifting gears felt smooth, but I did notice some ‘ghost pedaling’ at higher speeds, especially beyond 25mph. However, this is a common occurrence in nearly all high-speed electric bikes that use 7-speed gear systems, so it’s not a significant issue.
Damson R8V
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Damson R8V Features
Price
In terms of pricing, the Damson R8V stands out as an exceptional choice among electric bikes. It initially retails for $999, but it’s currently available at 20% discount on Amazon, making it just $799. The value you get for this price is truly astonishing. Even though it’s budget-friendly, this electric bike doesn’t make any compromises when it comes to performance, comfort, or features. The R8V offers an impressive top speed of 28mph, along with features like an extra wide saddle, a front and rear rack, and a mobile phone holder with USB charging.
Frame
The Damson R8V electric bike boasts a robust frame crafted from high-strength yet lightweight aluminum alloy, tipping the scales at a mere 66lbs. In terms of load capacity, this bike can accommodate riders weighing up to 400lbs. While its overall appearance aligns with the typical fat tire ebike design, the cast rims and dual fenders contribute to its aesthetic appeal. The bike has a step thru design for easy mounting, and its frame is foldable, enhancing portability and facilitating convenient storage.
Battery
The Damson R8V electric bike comes equipped with a strong 48V 15Ah (720Wh) Lithium-ion battery positioned behind the seat post. The battery is both lockable and detachable, making it highly convenient for users who can easily charge it or swap it out when needed. Recharging the battery is also a straightforward process, taking around 6-7 hours when using a standard 2A charger
LCD
The R8V is fitted with a generously-sized backlit LCD display, positioned at the left of the handlebar. This display offers excellent visibility, whether you’re riding in the dark or under the bright sun. Its ample size makes it effortless to monitor essential information such as your speed, distance traveled, battery status, pedal-assist mode, and various other ride details.
Lights
The R8V comes with a front LED light to brighten the way for riders during nighttime trips. Additionally, it features a rear light, enhancing safety by making the bike more noticeable to others on the road. The rear light also includes a brake light that activates when the rider applies the brakes.
Accessories
The R8V is loaded with various accessories to enhance your riding experience and safety. Notably, it includes sturdy front and rear racks for carrying your belongings. The bike is also equipped with pedal and wheel reflectors to ensure you remain visible on the road, dual plastic fenders protect you from splashes when riding through wet areas, and a side kickstand allows you to park the bike conveniently. To top it all, you have a mobile phone holder with a USB charging port.
Tires
Similar to many typical American fat ebike, the R8V sports 20×4-inch CST fat tires with a tough knobby tread pattern. These tires are not just for looks – they excel in their performance. They offer superior traction on surfaces like sand, snow, and mud while delivering a comfortable ride by effectively absorbing shocks and reducing vibrations on uneven city streets or rugged off-road paths.
Warranty
The Damson R8V electric bike comes with a comprehensive warranty that covers all manufacturing defects in its components for a period of 24 months. This includes protection for almost every ebike component.
Damson R8V Alternatives & Competitors
If you’re looking to explore different options, here are two main alternatives to consider that fall within the same price range as the Damson R8V folding fat tire electric bike
Damson R8V vs Heybike Mars
Both electric bikes share the same weight and motor capacity, but there are some noteworthy differences between the two. The Heybike Mars, which comes at a slightly higher price than the R8V, boasts a smaller battery, which means it offers less range. But Heybike is a reputable brand recognized for producing some of the most dependable e-bikes available… and Heybike electric bikes consistently receive top ratings on Amazon.
Damson R8V vs Vitilan V3
When comparing the Damson R8V with the Vitilan V3, there are notable differences in terms of features and pricing. The V3 comes in at a lower price point compared to both the R8V and the Mars but features a smaller battery, resulting in a shorter range. The V3 also lacks the front rack, and its load capacity is less than the R8V. On the positive side, it is a bit lighter and more affordable than both the R8V and the Mars.
To gain a better understanding of their features and capabilities, let’s briefly compare these three folding fat tire electric bikes
| Damson R8V | Heybike Mars | Vitilan V3 | |
| Motor | 500W | 500W | 750W |
| Top Speed | 28mph | 20mph | 28mph |
| Battery | 720Wh | 600Wh | 634Wh |
| Range | 21.4 miles | 22.6 miles | 21.4 miles |
| Weight | 66lbs | 66lbs | 64lbs |
| Load Rating | 400lbs | 330lbs | 330lbs |
| Front Rack | Yes | No | No |
| Price | $799 | $799 | $749 |
Conclusion
The Damson R8V is an impressive folding fat tire electric bike that truly excels in terms of value, thanks to its highly competitive price of just $799. Furthermore, its outstanding performance and wide array of features position it as a top contender in the budget electric bike category. What sets it apart immediately is its impressive top speed of 28mph, outperforming many other bikes in its price range, and it also boasts a very convenient cruise control feature.
Moreover, the bike doesn’t compromise on features either. It comes complete with dual fenders, reflectors, a kickstand, and a large mid-mounted display. You also have front and rear racks as well as a mobile phone holder with a USB charging port. While the R8V lacks in hill climbing, it still makes a compelling case.
Considering the remarkable features it offers at an unbeatable price of $799, the R8V unquestionably stands out as an excellent choice in the market. If you’re interested in purchasing this electric bike, you can visit its Amazon page below. Alternatively, if you’d like to explore more options, you can check out our top picks under $2,000, under $1,000, or under $500.
Damson R8V FAQs
Does the Damson R8V fat tire ebike come assembled?
The Damson R8V arrives 95% assembled. The rest of the process is easy and you can find the instructions on the brand’s Amazon page.
What are the weight and payload capacities of the Damson R8V?
The R8V features an aluminum alloy frame, resulting in a total weight of just 66lbs. It has a payload capacity of 400lbs, and is well-suited for heavier riders or individuals who need to carry their belongings along with them.
How many riding modes does the Damson electric bike offer?
The Damson electric bike offers four modes of operation: regular cycling, pedal-assist, pure electric using the throttle, and cruise control.
Damson R8V Manufacturer's Specs
- Motor: 500W (750W peak) brushless hub
- Max Speed: 28mph – Class 3
- No. of Assist Levels: 5
- Battery: 48V 15Ah (730Wh)
- Max Range: 60 miles
- Charger: 48V 2A Charger
- Charging Time: 6-7 Hours
- Brakes: Mechanical Disc Brakes
- Front Suspension: Hydraulic (Lockable)
- Frame Material: Aluminum Alloy
- Bike Weight: 66lbs (with Battery)
- Max Load: 400lbs
- Transmission: Shimano 7-speed
- Display: Backlit LCD
- Tire Size: CST 20×4.0″ Fat Tires
