Zoomi Life

One of the most fun, retro-style electric bicycles out there is the eGo Cycle 2, which comes in three models: standard, LX (deluxe), and SE (deluxe, deluxe). The basic specs on all three models are the same, it’s the amenities that separate them. Prices start in the $1200 range and these bikes are available nearly world-wide both online and by mail order, with local dealerships in some areas.

Two things stand out about this electric bicycle immediately: it looks more like a scooter than a bike, and it’s a pretty nice looker at that. The first impression says that, if you do get one of these and hope to ride it without a motorcycle license, you’d better check your local statutes: many designate a bicycle vs. a scooter by whether or not there are pedals, which the eGo doesn’t have. The second impression tells you that the days of geeky scooters are coming to a close.

If your local statutes designate a scooter/motorcycle by weight, then you’re probably OK calling this a bicycle under the law (it weighs only 120 pounds), but if pedals are required to make it a bike, then you’re out of luck. If your local or state government is going to call your eGo a scooter, you’ll probably have to purchase the LX or SE model in order to have turn signals and a license plate holder. Don’t worry, though, the price difference between the regular Cycle 2 and the LX is only about $300, so it’s not a deal breaker.

Let’s look at what kind of street specs will decide whether you want one of these for your around-town riding or short commute:

• Top speed: 23mph Go Fast/ 18mph Go Far
• Range: 23 miles at top speed in Go Far mode
• Colors: five to choose from (red, light green, dark tan, blue-green, and black)
• Motor: 1.5kW, 1,000W continuous/4,000W peak, 24V brush
• Drive Train: belt-driven
• Max Load: 250lbs
• Charger input: standard 110V AC
• Recharge Time: 3 hours to 80%, 6 hours to full

For many, that’s enough. The light weight and smaller size (about 64 inches long, 44 inches high, and 23 inches wide) make it small enough to easily fit through the door of an apartment or elevator, and light enough to be pushed around without the motor.

Other features make the eGo even more useful. Regenerative braking, easy controls, and a head and taillight are some of those features. The rear-view mirror isn’t a bad addition either. The “bell” for a horn is kind of cheesy, though, and the simple keyswitch on/off doesn’t make this a secure bike for street-parking. It’s nice to have the built-on cargo rack, though.

The standard model comes with all of what’s been listed so far, while the LX model basically ads legal fixes like front and rear turn signals, dual mirrors, a license plate holder, electric horn, and speedometer. Making it so that you can legally operate it as a motor vehicle in areas where it doesn’t fit the title of “bicycle.” They limit the color choices on the LX models to red and black, however.

The SE (or LX Special Edition) model is the same as the LX version, but ads some really nice looks to the machine with the silver powdercoat and the great-looking five-spoke alloy rims. You’ll pay a few hundred more for these extras, but they really take this electric from “classy” to “niiice.”

Finally, the 10 year frame warranty is exceptional, but the 6 month battery warranty will make even the most enthusiastic have doubts. For some, these are the perfect choice, but others might want to look at something more substantial or longer term. The eGo has some great points for the short-distance commuter or rider, but for the money and options, a similar electric bicycle with pedal-assist might be better.

Check out this short video of the eGo electric bike in action: