Aipas C1 Electric Bike Review: A Fast, Comfortable Step-Through Commuter

BEST VALUE STEP-THROUGH

Aipas C1 Electric Bike — Punchy 1100W Peak, Easy Everyday Commuter

Quick off the line, comfortable on rough city streets, and fully equipped with rack, fenders, and lights — a hassle-free daily rider.

4.7/5

• 1100W peak hub motor (up to 90 Nm) surges to 28 mph Class-3 speeds
• IP65-rated, removable 48V 12.8Ah battery; charge in ~4–6 hours
• Dual suspension + 26×2.0 Kenda tires smooth out broken pavement
• Dual 180 mm disc brakes, bright headlight & brake light for safety
• Step-through frame fits 5’1″–6’5″; 400 lb max payload; rear rack & fenders included

Motor

1100W peak (rear hub)

Battery

48V 12.8Ah • IP65

Top Speed

28 mph (PAS)

Range

40–62 miles

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If you want a city e-bike that’s easy to live with and confident enough for weekend paths, the Aipas C1 lands right in that sweet spot. It’s a step-through commuter with a punchy 1100W peak rear hub motor, a removable 48V 12.8Ah battery, and an approachable frame that welcomes new riders while still satisfying daily commuters. On paper it promises up to 62 miles of range and a Class-3 28 mph top speed, backed by a full lighting package, fenders, and a rear rack.

In use, the C1 is built around comfort and practicality. The tall swept-back handlebar, cushioned saddle, and suspension fork take the sting out of broken pavement. The 26×2.0-inch Kenda tires roll efficiently and still have enough bite for gravel shortcuts. A lockable/adjustable fork and a mid-frame rear shock soak up chatter, while dual 180 mm disc brakes rein everything in. It’s an e-bike that feels familiar even on a first ride.

Aipas also sweats the details that matter to commuters: the battery is IP65-rated for weather resistance, the LCD display is readable in daylight, there’s a USB port to top off a phone, and the integrated tail light brightens under braking. Add a 400 lb payload rating and a rider-fit window from 5'1" to 6'5", and you have a flexible, do-most-things city machine.

Is the Aipas C1 Plus for you?

The C1’s core mission is everyday transportation with a side of fun. If your riding is mostly city streets, neighborhood lanes, bike paths, and the occasional packed-dirt shortcut, this bike checks the right boxes. The 1100W peak hub motor (with up to 90 Nm of controller-delivered torque) gets you off the line quickly and helps flatten hills. Five pedal-assist levels let you dial the effort, and a throttle is there when you want a breezy cruise or need a boost from a stop.

It’s ideal for riders who value ease of use. The low step-through frame makes mounting simple in work clothes, with groceries, or for anyone with limited hip mobility. The included rack and fenders mean fewer accessory purchases, and the removable 48V pack lets you charge indoors in 4–6 hours. If you’re shopping for your first e-bike, the C1 feels intuitive from the first few miles.

Who might look elsewhere? Riders chasing aggressive trail riding or ultra-long adventures will want beefier suspension, wider tires, and a larger battery. If you demand hydraulic braking for frequent high-speed descents, the C1’s mechanical disc setup—while strong—won’t match hydraulic feel. And if compact storage is key, a folding frame may suit you better.

Budget-wise, the C1 sits in the mid-range of commuter e-bikes. You get step-through convenience, a lively motor, and a solid feature set without reaching into premium territory. It’s beginner-friendly yet capable enough to keep up with experienced riders who value practicality.

What We Like About the Aipas C1 Plus

The motor system is the star. A 1100W peak brushless hub paired with a controller tuned for up to 90 Nm of torque gives the C1 quick starts and confident hill performance. In traffic, that snap off the line makes you feel in command. At higher PAS levels it pulls smoothly to Class-3 speeds, and the cadence-sensor assist is predictable once you learn the five levels.

Battery integration is smart. The 48V 12.8Ah pack uses 21700 cells for a denser layout and claims up to 62 miles under light assist on flatter routes. Realistically, mixed riding in PAS 2–3 should land you in the 40–50 mile window, which is plenty for most weeks of commuting with a midweek top-up. The IP65 rating inspires confidence on rainy days, and the hidden, frame-flush mounting looks clean.

Ride comfort is another highlight. The adjustable-lockout fork takes the edge off potholes, while the mid-frame shock mutes chatter from expansion joints and brick alleys. The upright cockpit, with a 24-inch bar and relaxed geometry, encourages heads-up riding. The Kenda 26×2.0 tires roll quickly on pavement and are stable in gravel park paths, and the included full fenders keep grit off clothing.

Commuter readiness is excellent. Bright headlight and brake-activated tail light, rear rack out of the box, kickstand, and reflectors are all there. The LCD cluster is simple to read, with five PAS levels and a USB port on deck to charge a phone or GPS. The stated 400 lb payload rating is generous for a city e-bike, and the height range (5'1"–6'5") makes the C1 a flexible one-bike household option.

Finally, assembly and upkeep are approachable. Aipas ships the bike 95% assembled, and routine care is straightforward: mechanical discs are easy to tune, 7-speed drivetrains are ubiquitous for parts, and 26-inch tires are widely available.

What We Don’t Like About the Aipas C1 Plus

While the dual 180 mm disc brakes have strong bite, they’re mechanical—so lever feel isn’t as light or progressive as a good hydraulic setup. Frequent hill descents or heavier riders may prefer hydraulic discs for finger comfort and modulation.

The 12.8Ah (≈ 614 Wh) battery is solid but not class-leading in capacity. Many commuters will be happy with the claimed 40–62 miles, yet high-assist riders or those facing stiff headwinds may want a 14–20Ah pack for longer no-charge weeks. There’s no factory dual-battery option.

The cadence-sensor assist favors an “on/off” surge at higher PAS levels. It’s predictable and fun, but riders accustomed to torque-sensor bikes will notice less natural leg-power blending. The rear shock provides comfort, yet its travel and damping are tuned for city use—think plush over potholes, not aggressive off-road hits.

Tire width is a compromise. At 26×2.0, the Kendas are efficient, but riders on rougher gravel may wish for a 2.2–2.4-inch casing for more cushion and grip. The headlight is fine for lit streets but could be brighter for fast, unlit commutes. And at a listed 57 lb, the C1 isn’t a featherweight; carrying it up multiple flights of stairs will be a workout.

None of these are deal-breakers for its mission, but they’re the trade-offs that define the C1’s commuter-first personality.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
1100W peak hub motor with lively acceleration and up to 90 Nm controller torque	Mechanical discs lack hydraulic feel on long or steep descents
Comfortable step-through frame fits 5'1"–6'5" riders	12.8Ah battery is mid-pack for capacity; no dual-battery option
IP65-rated, removable 48V battery with 21700 cells	Cadence-sensor assist feels less natural than a torque sensor
Up to 62-mile claimed range; realistic 40–50 miles in mixed PAS 2–3	26×2.0 tires are efficient but narrow for rough gravel
Adjustable-lockout fork + mid-frame rear shock add real comfort	Headlight brightness is modest for fast, unlit routes
Rear rack, fenders, kickstand, headlight/brake light included	57 lb weight is hefty to carry upstairs
400 lb payload rating and sturdy 6061-alloy frame
USB port on display; simple PAS controls

What’s Included?

• Aipas C1 Plus step-through e-bike (Medium size)
• Removable 48V 12.8Ah battery (IP65-rated)
• 48V charger (approx. 4–6 hour charge time)
• Rear hub motor (1100W peak)
• Full-coverage fenders (front and rear)
• Integrated headlight and brake-activated tail light
• Rear cargo rack
• 26×2.0 in Kenda tires (pre-installed)
• Dual 180 mm mechanical disc brakes with Zoom calipers
• LCD display with USB charge port and control keypad
• Kickstand and reflectors
• Basic tool kit and pedals
• Owner’s manual and warranty card
• Battery keys

As commuter packages go, this is refreshingly complete. You can unbox it, spend an hour finishing assembly and adjustments, and ride to work the same day with dry pants if it rains. The only obvious omissions are a bell and a brighter headlight for unlit routes, both inexpensive upgrades. Panniers will clip to the rack without drama, and a suspension seatpost is an easy comfort add if your roads are extra rough.

Technical Specifications

Category	Spec
Frame	Step-through 6061 aluminum alloy, Medium
Motor	Rear hub, 1100W peak brushless
Controller / Torque	Up to 90 Nm (controller-delivered)
Battery	48V 12.8Ah (≈ 614 Wh) removable; 21700 cells; IP65 rating
Claimed Range	40–62 miles per charge (PAS-dependent)
Top Speed	Up to 28 mph (Class-3 with PAS)
Charging Time	~4–6 hours
Drivetrain	7-speed derailleur
Brakes	Dual mechanical disc, 180 mm rotors; Zoom calipers
Suspension	Adjustable-lockout front fork; mid-frame rear shock
Tires	26×2.0 in Kenda (marketing also lists 26×1.95)
Lights	Integrated headlight; brake-activated tail light
Display	LCD screen with 5 PAS levels; USB charge port
Geometry / Fit	Standover ~18"; bar width ~24"; seat height ~33–41"; bike height ~44"; full length ~66"
Rider Height	Recommended 5'1"–6'5"
Payload	Up to 400 lb
Bike Weight	~57 lb
Hill Grade	15–20° (maker claim)
Colors	Black, Blue, Purple, White

Features

• 1100W peak brushless rear hub motor for brisk city acceleration
• Five pedal-assist levels plus throttle for flexible effort
• 48V 12.8Ah removable battery with 21700 cells and IP65 protection
• Up to 62 miles per charge in light-assist scenarios
• Step-through frame for easy mounting and dismounting
• Adjustable-lockout suspension fork and mid-frame rear shock
• Dual 180 mm mechanical disc brakes for strong, low-maintenance stopping
• 26×2.0" puncture-resistant Kenda tires suited to pavement and light gravel
• LCD display with speed, battery, mileage, PAS level; USB charging port
• Full commuting kit: fenders, rear rack, headlight, and brake light
• 400 lb payload capacity; recommended rider range 5'1"–6'5"
• 95% pre-assembled shipping; 4–6 hour charging time

Feature verdict: For a mid-range step-through commuter, the C1 covers the bases very well. The motor and Class-3 assist make real-world commuting faster, the suspension adds comfort without much weight, and the IP-rated battery is a commuter-confidence booster. The choice of mechanical discs keeps maintenance simple, though hydraulic brakes would be a premium upgrade. Overall, the feature mix is balanced toward reliability and daily convenience rather than exotic tech.

Real-World Riding Impressions

Acceleration and Urban Pace

The C1’s motor tune prioritizes quick launches and steady mid-speed pull. In level 3–4, you’ll keep up with neighborhood traffic from stop signs, and in level 5 it holds Class-3 speeds on the flat without feeling strained. The hub motor’s push arrives a beat after the cranks start turning—typical of cadence-sensor systems—and then builds smoothly.

Hill Performance

Short, punchy climbs are the C1’s comfort zone. With the 90 Nm controller output and a sensible low gear, it crests neighborhood hills without drama. On longer grades, stepping up a PAS level or two keeps cadence in the sweet spot. Very steep or sustained climbs are doable, but expect speeds to drop into the teens—normal for a commuter-class hub system.

Handling and Comfort

The 26-inch wheels and 2.0-inch tires make the C1 feel lively yet planted. It tracks cleanly through corners and remains stable with weight on the rear rack. The fork and rear shock don’t turn it into a trail bike, but they do take the sting out of broken tarmac, making longer rides easier on wrists and lower back. The upright posture keeps your head up in traffic.

Braking and Control

Mechanical discs with 180 mm rotors supply strong, predictable stopping. Lever effort is higher than hydraulic sets, but modulation is easy to learn. The brake-activated tail light is a thoughtful safety touch, especially for after-work rides at dusk.

Cockpit and Usability

The LCD is legible, the control pad is intuitive, and the USB port is genuinely useful for phone navigation. The step-through frame is a daily quality-of-life upgrade—no swinging a leg over a rack bag. The rack is sturdy enough for a trunk bag or small panniers, and the fenders avoid the dreaded stripe on rainy days.

Sizing, Fit, and Ergonomics

With a recommended range of 5'1" to 6'5", the C1 casts a wide net. The adjustable seatpost covers 33–41 inches in height, and the relaxed reach suits most riders in that window. Riders under ~5'2" may appreciate the low 18-inch standover, while taller riders can swap to a longer seatpost or a higher-rise stem if needed.

The saddle is on the comfort side; if you prefer a firmer perch, budget for your favorite aftermarket option. Grips are simple and functional. For long commutes, a suspension seatpost is an inexpensive comfort upgrade that pairs well with the C1’s fork.

Battery Life, Charging, and Care

The 48V 12.8Ah pack yields ~614 Wh. A light-assist commuter using PAS 2–3 on mostly flat terrain can approach the upper end of the range claim; mixed routes with hills, stop-and-go traffic, or heavy throttle use will land you nearer 40 miles. Charging from near empty takes about 4–6 hours.

Good habits extend pack life: avoid storing the battery hot or fully depleted, and top it to ~80–90% for daily use when possible. The IP65 rating is specifically helpful for riding through showers; still, dry the bike after downpours and re-grease contact points periodically.

Maintenance and Upgrades

The C1 is friendly to home mechanics. Keep the chain clean and lubed, check brake pad wear every few hundred miles, and true the wheels if you notice rubbing. Mechanical disc cable stretch is normal during break-in—plan to readjust once or twice early on.

Popular upgrades for this platform include:

• A brighter 800–1200-lumen headlight for dark paths
• A suspension seatpost for more small-bump comfort
• Panniers or a trunk bag for daily carry
• Slightly wider 26×2.2 tires if your frame/fender clearances allow
• Hydraulic brake kit if you want lighter lever feel

Safety and Compliance Notes

The battery pack carries a UL 2271 certification and an IP65 weather rating, both reassuring for durability. Ride within local Class-3 rules, use lights at dusk, and consider a mirror for city routes. If you store the bike in a communal area, use a quality U-lock and a secondary cable for wheels and the seat.

Comparisons: Where the C1 Fits

Against other step-through commuters in this tier, the C1’s strengths are its lively motor tune, generous payload rating, and truly ride-ready kit. Some competitors offer hydraulic brakes or larger batteries at a higher cost; others match the capacity but omit fenders or racks. The Aipas recipe emphasizes out-of-box utility and easy upkeep, which will appeal to riders who just want to ride and not tinker.

Final Breakdown

9.0 / 10

The Aipas C1 is a thoughtfully equipped, confidence-inspiring commuter that nails the everyday details. The step-through frame lowers the barrier to riding. The 1100W-peak hub motor and 5-level PAS make city speeds effortless, while the suspension and 26-inch wheels deliver a smooth, stable ride. Add an IP65-rated removable battery, brake-light integration, rack and fenders, and you’ve got a turn-key urban e-bike.

It’s not trying to be an enduro e-MTB or an ultra-long-range tourer. Mechanical discs, a mid-pack 12.8Ah battery, and narrowish tires are the trade-offs that keep the C1 approachable and maintainable. For commuters and leisure riders who want reliable speed, comfort, and day-one practicality, it’s an easy recommendation.

Recommendation: If you’re shopping for a mid-range step-through that blends comfort, speed, and ready-to-ride utility, put the Aipas C1 at the top of your list. It’s a cheerful daily companion that makes short work of city miles and leaves you looking forward to the ride home.