ZDZA ZA04 Electric Bike Review: 1000W Punch, 375Wh Battery, Real-World Range
ZDZA ZA04 Electric Bike Review covers this budget commuter’s 1000W peak punch, 375Wh removable battery (to 40 miles), color LCD, 7-speed and dual disc brakes.
The ZDZA ZA04 is an entry-level, step-over e-mountain/commuter hybrid built to make daily rides simpler without draining your wallet. On paper it pairs a 1000W peak hub motor with a 375Wh removable battery, a 7-speed drivetrain, dual mechanical disc brakes, and an upgraded color LCD. The brand claims up to 22 mph and as much as 40 miles of pedal-assist range, which—if realized—places it squarely among the most approachable budget commuters.
What stands out at first glance is how complete the package feels for beginners: puncture-resistant 26″ tires for mixed surfaces, a lockable front suspension fork to tame bumpy paths, a bright headlight with reflectors for visibility, and five riding modes (including cruise and walk assist) so you can tailor effort to the day. The frame is a traditional triangle (step-over), which maximizes stiffness and payload capacity (rated up to 265 lb) and keeps battery weight centered in the downtube.
The ZA04 looks like a recent addition to ZDZA’s lineup, carrying design cues from mainstream value commuters. Compared with many sub-$500 competitors, it brings a slightly more robust feature mix—especially the color LCD and two charging options (charge in-frame or remove the pack). While ZDZA doesn’t publish a long history for this model, the current spec sheet suggests a sensible refinement of the “budget mountain-commuter” template.
If your primary need is a reliable, low-maintenance way to commute, run errands, or explore local bike paths without spending premium e-bike money, the ZA04 hits a sweet spot. The 1000W peak motor provides confident starts at lights and enough punch to crest moderate hills (the brand cites 25% grade capability), and the 7-speed drivetrain helps you find a comfortable cadence whether you’re cruising at 12 mph on neighborhood lanes or pushing toward the 22 mph top speed.
It’s best suited to first-time e-bike owners, students, and budget-minded commuters who want predictable performance, simple controls, and practical range. The 375Wh battery is sized for typical weekday use—think 6–12 miles each way with assist—plus weekend paths and light gravel. The 26″ tire format keeps handling familiar for riders coming from analog city or mountain bikes.
It’s not the ideal choice if you regularly demand 50+ mile rides without recharging, want hydraulic brakes out of the box, need a torque-sensor’s ultra-natural pedaling feel, or prefer a step-through frame. Likewise, very tall riders above ~6’1″ (the recommended 5’3″–6’1″ size window) may want a longer frame.
Budget-wise, this is firmly a budget e-bike. That’s good news for value; just set expectations accordingly around components (mechanical discs vs. hydraulic, entry steel frame, modest 375Wh pack). For beginners, the interface is friendly, assembly arrives 90% complete, and the five ride modes remove the learning curve.
What We Like About the ZDZA ZA04
The motor-assist tuning is confidence-boosting for a budget bike. A 1000W peak rating (with an expected lower continuous wattage) paired to 22 mph assist makes urban starts and short hills feel easy. Gearing through the Shimano 7-speed is sensible for city speeds, letting you spin rather than mash.
The removable 375Wh battery is practical. You get two charging paths—plug in while the pack is locked inside the frame or remove it to charge at your desk. ZDZA quotes up to 40 miles in PAS; even with real-world variables, that’s enough for most day-to-day use. The listing’s IPX6 call-out for the battery inspires confidence in rainy commutes, and the on-board BMS (battery management system) addresses basic pack protections.
Ride comfort exceeds the price class. The lockable front suspension and 26″ puncture-resistant tires do a credible job smoothing rough pavement and park paths. The cockpit is straightforward, and the color LCD makes ride data easy to read at a glance—speed, battery, trip, mode—without the gummy contrast of older monochrome displays. Five working modes (pure electric, pedal assist, cruise control, normal bike, push assist) give you unusual flexibility at this price.
Safety is covered by dual mechanical disc brakes, a bright headlight, reflectors, and a stable triangle frame rated to 265 lb. Add UL 2849 certification and 12-month warranty support, and the ZA04’s value proposition becomes clearer: it is a beginner-friendly commuter with thought-through basics done right.
What We Don’t Like About the ZDZA ZA04
Battery capacity is the main limiter. 375Wh is fine for mixed-mode commuting, but riders expecting long throttle-only trips will meet range anxiety quickly. Expect to manage assist levels or plan mid-week charges for longer routes.
The brakes are mechanical rather than hydraulic. They’re adequate and simple to service, but they require more hand force and periodic cable adjustment to maintain best feel. At higher sustained speeds or on long descents, hydraulic brakes would be a welcome upgrade.
The frame is carbon-steel, which is durable and cost-effective but generally heavier than aluminum. At a claimed 57.9 lb, the bike is not unmanageable, yet carrying it up multiple flights will feel like a workout. The step-over frame may also challenge riders with limited mobility compared to a step-through.
Finally, some details are thin in the public spec—e.g., rated (continuous) motor wattage and exact battery voltage are not explicitly published. That’s normal at this price, but spec transparency helps buyers compare apples to apples.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
1000W peak hub motor with 22 mph assist for punchy starts
375Wh battery limits throttle-only range
Removable, IPX6-rated battery; two charging methods
Mechanical (not hydraulic) disc brakes
Color LCD with five ride modes incl. cruise & walk assist
Heavier carbon-steel frame (~57.9 lb)
Lockable front suspension; 26″ puncture-resistant tires
Step-over frame not ideal for riders wanting easy mounts
UL 2849 certification; 12-month warranty
Some specs (continuous watts/voltage) not detailed
1 × 26″ ZDZA ZA04 electric bike (pre-assembled about 90%)
1 × Battery charger
Tool kit
User manual
Packaging impressions: For a budget bike, this is the right load-out. You get everything needed to finish assembly and start riding. The tool kit is basic but adequate; seasoned riders may prefer their own Allen/torx keys and a better pedal wrench. The only omission some commuters might notice is a rear rack and fenders—worth adding later if you carry bags or ride wet streets frequently.
Technical Specifications
Specification
Details
Motor
Rear hub, 1000W peak (continuous rating not specified)
Top Speed
Up to 22 mph (assist)
Battery
375Wh removable lithium pack (voltage/Ah not specified); IPX6-rated; BMS
Claimed Range
Up to 40 miles in pedal-assist (varies by rider/input/terrain)
Charging
Two methods: in-frame or off-bike; ~5 hours fast charge indication
Wheel/Tire
26″ puncture-resistant tires
Drivetrain
Shimano 7-speed
Brakes
Dual mechanical disc
Suspension
Lockable front suspension (dual-spring, budget coil design)
Display
Color LCD (speed, battery, trip/odo, PAS, etc.)
Frame
Step-over triangle, carbon-steel
Weight
57.9 lb (claimed)
Payload
265 lb max
Rider Fit
Recommended 5’3″–6’1″
Ride Modes
Pure Electric, Pedal Assist, Cruise Control, Normal Bike, Push Assist
Lighting
Headlight + reflectors
Certification
UL 2849
Included
Bike, charger, tool kit, manual
Features
1000W peak rear hub motor for brisk city starts and hill support.
375Wh removable battery with two charging options.
Up to 40 miles claimed PAS range for daily commuting.
IPX6 battery and BMS protections for wet-weather confidence.
Color LCD with clear metrics and simple mode switching.
Five ride modes: pure electric, pedal assist, cruise control, normal bike, push assist.
Lockable front suspension to smooth rough pavement and light trails.
Dual mechanical disc brakes for predictable stopping.
26″ puncture-resistant tires for mixed surfaces.
265 lb payload and stable step-over frame geometry.
UL 2849 certification and 12-month warranty coverage.
90% pre-assembled, tool kit included for quick setup.
Feature take: The ZA04’s spec sheet is deliberately pragmatic. You get what matters most to new riders—assist power, removable battery, readable display, and basic suspension—without paying for boutique components. The only conspicuous compromises are the modest 375Wh capacity and mechanical discs, both understandable at this tier and easy to live with for typical commutes.
Motor & Drivetrain: Everyday Power, Sensible Gearing
City riding demands quick “get up and go,” not top-end race speed. The ZA04’s peak 1000W hub motor addresses exactly that. It spools quickly from a stop and carries smoothly up to the rated 22 mph. Because hub motors deliver power independent of pedaling torque, takeoffs feel consistent even if your cadence isn’t perfect yet—ideal for newer riders still finding their rhythm.
Pairing a 7-speed derailleur is the right call. It’s enough ratios to keep you comfortable on small climbs and to avoid spinning out near top speed. Most budget commuters ship with 6 or 7 speeds; the ZA04’s spread is in line with class standards. Riders in hilly areas will appreciate downshifts together with PAS 3–5 on steeper segments.
Without a torque sensor, pedal-assist is cadence-triggered: the bike provides a set level of power when the cranks are turning. That’s less “organic” than a mid-drive or torque-sensor hub at higher price points, but it’s predictable and easy to learn. For flat-to-rolling commutes, it’s exactly what you need.
Battery & Range: Right-Sized for Commuters
At 375Wh, the ZA04’s battery is targeted at commuter realities rather than touring fantasies. For a 6–12 mile each-way commute using PAS 2–3 and reasonable cadence, you can expect to recharge every day or two. The up to 40 miles figure assumes lighter riders using moderate assist on flatter routes; throttle-only or cold-weather use will cut that dramatically.
The removable design means you can park the bike in a shared garage and take the pack indoors for charging. Two charging methods (in-frame or off-bike) add flexibility—especially if your parking spot lacks outlets. The indicated ~5-hour charge time from low to full is typical for packs of this size and keeps downtime manageable.
For riders wanting extended weekend rides, consider carrying a charger to the office or adding a lunch-break top-off. As your fitness grows, using lower PAS levels can stretch range considerably.
Comfort & Handling: Calm, Stable, and Beginner-Friendly
The step-over triangle frame gives the ZA04 a planted, predictable feel. It’s a layout that resists flex when you stand on the pedals or hit potholes, and it supports the 265 lb payload rating. The trade-off is stand-over height: shorter riders should double-check inseam against the published 5’3″ minimum recommendation.
The lockable front fork smooths out broken pavement and gravel connectors. It’s a coil design suited to light to moderate bumps. Lockout is handy for efficiency on smoother streets—flip it on for long, steady sections where you don’t want fork bob.
Tires make or break budget bike comfort, and the ZA04’s 26″ puncture-resistant set balances roll-over ability with maneuverability. They feel predictable on bike paths and neighborhood streets, and—combined with the fork—keep vibration in check. If your routes include frequent rain, consider a tread with finer siping when it’s time to replace.
Braking & Safety: Solid Basics, Easy Upgrades
Dual mechanical disc brakes are standard in this class. With fresh pads and good cable tension, they deliver consistent stopping in dry and wet conditions. They lack the modulation and lighter lever feel of hydraulics, but performance is plenty for city speeds when properly maintained. Periodic cable adjustment (or swapping to compressionless housing) will keep lever throw short and bite point clear.
Visibility is handled by a headlight and reflectors. If you ride in true darkness, adding a 500–800-lumen handlebar light and a flashing tail light is a smart upgrade. The color LCD’s readability helps you keep eyes up—glance, get speed/battery, and return to the road.
The UL 2849 certification is an important box to tick: it addresses systemic electrical-system safety at the product level, increasingly required by buildings and insurers in some regions.
Display, Controls & Modes: A Nicer Cockpit Than Expected
An upgraded color LCD elevates the cockpit above many monochrome budget units. Data legibility is good in daylight, and the layout surfaces the info riders actually use: speed, PAS level, battery bars, trip/odometer. The five modes make the bike adaptable:
Pure Electric: thumb the throttle and cruise without pedaling (fastest battery drain).
Pedal Assist: your default for efficiency and exercise.
Cruise Control: hold a steady pace on long, flat stretches.
Normal Bike: ride with the motor off—useful if you forget to charge.
Push Assist: walk the bike up ramps or into elevators with less effort.
Mode switching is intuitive, and the shifter’s tactile clicks are beginner-friendly.
Assembly, Maintenance & Support
ZDZA ships the ZA04 90% assembled with a tool kit and user manual. Expect to attach the handlebar, front wheel, pedals, and saddle, then align the brakes and check all bolts with a torque pattern. Plan 45–75 minutes if you’re new to bike builds. It’s worth following a standard pre-ride checklist: tire pressure, true the rotors if they rub, adjust derailleur indexing (a quarter-turn at the barrel does wonders), and bed in the brakes over a few safe stops.
Routine care is straightforward: keep the chain clean and lubricated every 150–250 miles, check brake pad wear, and keep the battery between ~20–80% for longevity (full charge before longer rides). The 12-month warranty provides peace of mind; keep your proof of purchase and record the serial number.
Value & Alternatives
In the budget bracket, competitors often force trade-offs: they’ll deliver a larger battery with a dim display, or a nicer fork with a lower payload rating. The ZA04’s mix is balanced. If you want longer range out of the box, look for a 480–614Wh battery (often at a higher price). If you want stronger braking feel, prioritize models with hydraulic discs (again, typically more expensive).
Two alternatives to consider for comparison’s sake:
A value 26″ commuter with similar 7-speed and mechanical discs but a slightly larger battery. You’ll gain range but may lose the color LCD and two-way charging.
A 27.5″ or 29″ city e-bike with hydraulic brakes and a torque sensor (higher tier). Ride feel is superb, but price creeps well beyond “budget.”
For riders focused on predictable commuting and weekend paths under ~40 miles per charge, the ZA04’s balance of features at the price is compelling.
Tips to Get the Most from the ZA04
Dial PAS to terrain. Use PAS 2–3 on flats for efficiency, bump to PAS 4–5 only on rises. Your range will thank you.
Bed in the brakes. Ten medium stops from ~15 mph to 5 mph seats pads to rotors for stronger, quieter braking.
Check bolt torque after week one. New bikes settle; a quick wrench session keeps creaks away.
Consider early upgrades: a rear rack + panniers for commuting, better flat-resistant tubes, and a brighter tail light for night rides.
Store the battery smartly. Cool, dry place; avoid deep discharge; top to ~80% if the bike sits for weeks.
Final Breakdown
9.2 / 10
The ZDZA ZA04 succeeds by focusing on the fundamentals that matter to new riders: enough power to feel confident in traffic, a removable battery with flexible charging, a readable color display, and a comfortable ride over imperfect streets. The parts list is honest and repairable, the payload rating is generous for a budget frame, and safety basics are all here—including UL 2849 system certification.
The drawbacks—mechanical discs, a modest 375Wh pack, and a heavier steel frame—are predictable for the class and rarely show-stoppers for the target rider. If your commute fits the range profile and you prefer a classic step-over frame, the ZA04 is a smart, wallet-friendly way to get moving. Recommended for first-time e-bike buyers and value-focused commuters who want everyday reliability over flashy spec sheets.
Michael Thompson has been a part of the cycling community for over 15 years, with a particular focus on e-bikes for the last decade. Michael's background in electrical engineering gives him a unique perspective on the technical aspects of e-bike performance.
