We were intrigued by the concept behind the Heybike Explore when we first saw it. However, after testing it out, we found that it will be a great choice for those who are looking for an adventure eBike with plenty of power on tap. In this Heybike Explore electric bike review, we’ll take a look at the all the unique features that allow you to go places where other bikes cannot go.
It comes with a powerful motor that provides enough torque to get you going quickly along with an integrated battery system that provides up to 70 miles of range per charge. However, no ebike is 100% perfect, and this one has some drawbacks as well.
Testing Evaluation
Tested against similar models within the same category
Main Features:
- Riders Weight Limit | 330 lbs (150 kg)
- Motor | 750W Brushless DC Motor
- Range | Up to 70 Miles per Charge
- Battery | 48V, 20Ah Lithium Battery
- Speed | 28 MPH
Complete Heybike Explore Electric Bike Review
Motor and Power
The Heybike Explore comes with a 750W brushless DC motor fitted into its rear wheel but rides like an electric bike with a 1000W motor. This e-bike can attain speeds of up to 28 miles an hour in both pedal- and throttle-assisted modes.
That’s a speed level most 750W electric bikes struggle to reach even with heavy pedaling. An electric bike that’s able to hit that speed without assistance from the rider is not something you come across everyday.
With the amount of power this electric bike puts out, I’m pretty sure it’ll be able to exceed that 28mph speed limit programmed into its controller (I.e if you derestrict it and pedal hard). Keep in mind, however, that factors like rider weight, wind direction, terrain smoothness, battery power, etc might affect the bike’s ability to attain such high speeds.
Range
The Heybike Explore’s 960Wh (48V 20Ah) battery can store up enough energy for long-range travels. Heybike claims it can cover up to 70 miles on a single charge, however, our real-world tests put the bike’s range at about 58 miles per full charge. Factors such as terrain, speed, and rider’s wieght comes into play.
Ride Smoothness
The Heybike Explore is designed to ride over almost any kind of terrain. It comes with front suspension, 4-inch wide tires, and a suspension post (one that actually compresses).
This entire system helps ensure that riders enjoy smooth rides irrespective of the type of terrain they’re riding on.
Weight Limit and Net Weight
I generally feel like the Heybike Explore can double as a cargo bike for those who are looking to carry a few extra items with them on rides. The bike weighs 77 lbs (35 kg) and can support up to 330 lbs (150 kg) of weight. It comes with a very sturdy rear rack and can support up to 120 lbs
It also comes pre-drilled with bolts that serve as a mount for front racks and baskets.
Portability
The Explore is a large electric bike, and unlike most Heybike models, it does not fold down into a more compact size. This beast is 46.1 inches tall and measures up to 79.9 inches in length so there’s no way it can be regarded as a portable e-bike.
Display and Controls
The Heybike Explore comes with a grayscale LCD device that displays the bikes speed, range, battery capacity, and pedal-assist level. To the left of the cockpit is a control pad that sends commands to the bike’s display.
Riders can use this to power the LCD on and toggle between the five levels of motor assistance.
Testing Evaluation
Tested against similar models within the same category
Main Features:
- Riders Weight Limit | 330 lbs (150 kg)
- Motor | 750W Brushless DC Motor
- Range | Up to 70 Miles per Charge
- Battery | 48V, 20Ah Lithium Battery
- Speed | 28 MPH
Turning, Control, and Balance
The Heybike Explore is a pretty steady electric bike. The fact that it doesn’t fold at the stem eliminates any weaknesses that might affect the steering of the bike.
Plus, it comes with ultra-thick tires that provide extra grip (you can also reduce the air pressure in the tires to widen their contact patch and maximize traction). Braking is so responsive you’d think it’s equipped with a hydraulic system (it actually comes with mechanical disc brakes that utilize 160mm rotors)
Water Resistance
Heybike doesn’t exactly specify the Explore’s water-resistance rating on their official webpage, however, they do claim that all their electric bikes are built to the IPX4 water resistance standard.
This means that water sprays from any direction will not affect the natural operation of the bike. So, technically speaking, you can ride the Heybike Explore under light rainy conditions; Just as long as you keep an eye out for puddles.
Upgrades and Accessories
You probably want to consider the Heybike Explore because it’s a full-featured electric bike. It comes with a pair of full-length fenders, a heavy-duty kickstand, front and rear lights, a sturdy rear rack that can support up to 120 lbs of weight, an electronic horn, and a bottle holder.
The only aftermarket accessories you might need to purchase for this e-bike are front and/ rear baskets.
Warranty and Shipping
Heybike ships electric bikes to addresses in the contiguous US for free. They do not ship to PO boxes or military addresses and delivery usually takes between 1 and 8 business days.
Shipments to Canada attract a handling fee of $200 and could take weeks to arrive at their destination. Their bikes also come with a 1-year limited warranty and they offer a 30-day money-back trial to riders.
Heybike Explore Electric Bike Review-Pros & Cons
Pros
- It is an all-terrain electric bike. The Heybike Explore can ride on wet surfaces, sand, snow, gravel, etc.
- It is a powerful e-bike.
- Its step-through frame promotes easy and effortless mounting.
- It is a joy to ride. Riding on the Explore is so smooth, you’d almost believe it’s a full-suspension e-bike.
Cons
- Heavy frame (77 lbs).
- The bike’s battery pack does not come with a USB port for charging other devices and neither does the display.
- Not suitable for short riders.
- Throttle activation does not override pedal-assist. The bike’s throttle will not operate at its highest capacity unless you’re in PAS 5.
Heybike Explore Electric Bike Review- Who is it For?
The Heybike Explore is an electric bike that’s built for the adventurer at heart. The fact that it’s able to ride over almost any kind of terrain is proof of this. That said, it’s also a great electric bike for couriers and heavy riders.
Heybike Explore Electric Bike Review- Who is it Not For?
The Heybike Explore might be a step-through electric bike, but its frame is just too tall for people under 5’9” to ride comfortably. It’s also a very bulky electric bike. So, if you’re in the market for a lightweight e-bike, the Heybike Explore is not for you.
Testing Evaluation
Tested against similar models within the same category
Main Features:
- Riders Weight Limit | 330 lbs (150 kg)
- Motor | 750W Brushless DC Motor
- Range | Up to 70 Miles per Charge
- Battery | 48V, 20Ah Lithium Battery
- Speed | 28 MPH