Michael Thompson
The Burchda R5 Pro Folding Electric Bike is a beast of a machine, blending raw power with practical design to tackle both urban streets and rugged trails. As an e-bike enthusiast, I’ve had the chance to put this foldable fat-tire bike through its paces, and it’s a standout for those craving adventure without sacrificing convenience. With a 1000W peak power motor and a 48V 20Ah battery, it promises thrilling rides and impressive range, all wrapped in a sturdy, foldable frame. Whether you’re commuting through city traffic or exploring off-road paths, this bike aims to deliver a versatile, high-performance experience.
What sets the R5 Pro apart is its ability to combine serious muscle with thoughtful features. Launched in early 2023 by Burchda Bikes, a company known for crafting reliable and performance-driven electric bikes, this model has quickly gained traction for its robust build and all-terrain capability. The dual suspension system and 26×4.0-inch fat tires make it a smooth operator on everything from muddy trails to snowy slopes. Since its debut, Burchda has fine-tuned the R5 Pro with minor updates to its display and battery efficiency, ensuring it stays competitive in the fast-evolving e-bike market.
Burchda Bikes, the brains behind the R5 Pro, has carved out a reputation for producing e-bikes that prioritize performance, durability, and rider comfort. Based on their focus on quality components—like Shimano gears and hydraulic brakes—they cater to riders who want a reliable, no-nonsense ride. The R5 Pro reflects their commitment to blending innovation with practicality, offering a foldable design that’s rare for such a powerful mountain e-bike. It’s a bike that invites you to push boundaries, whether you’re hitting the trails or navigating daily commutes.
Is the Burchda R5 Pro for You?
The Burchda R5 Pro is built for riders who need a versatile e-bike that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures. It solves the problem of needing a bike that’s powerful enough for off-road exploration yet practical for urban life. The foldable design and long-range battery make it ideal for those who want a single bike for multiple scenarios—think city dwellers with limited storage or outdoor enthusiasts tackling diverse terrains. It’s a middle-tier investment, offering premium features without the eye-watering price tag of high-end models.
This bike is perfect for adults who enjoy cycling but want the extra boost of electric power, whether for climbing steep hills or covering long distances without breaking a sweat. It’s beginner-friendly, thanks to its intuitive controls and five riding modes, which let you tailor the experience to your skill level. However, it’s not for everyone. If you’re looking for a lightweight road bike for casual rides or prefer a non-electric experience, the R5 Pro’s hefty 74-pound frame and electric focus might feel like overkill. It’s also not suited for those on a tight budget, as its price reflects its robust features.
The R5 Pro shines for riders who value power and flexibility. It’s designed for those who might need to toss their bike into a car trunk for a weekend getaway or navigate crowded urban streets during the week. If you’re someone who wants to explore without limits—be it a mountain trail or a city commute—this bike is built to keep up. Its approachable design makes it welcoming for newcomers, but its performance will satisfy seasoned riders too.
What We Like About the Burchda R5 Pro
The Burchda R5 Pro delivers a thrilling ride that feels effortless, whether you’re cruising through city streets or tackling rocky trails. The 1000W peak power motor is a game-changer, providing enough torque to conquer steep inclines with ease. I was impressed by how quickly it accelerates, hitting 30 mph in just seconds when using the throttle in pedal-assist mode. The 26×4.0-inch fat tires grip the ground like a tank, offering stability on loose surfaces like gravel, mud, or snow. The dual suspension system, with its hydraulic front fork and four-bar linkage, absorbs bumps so well that long rides feel surprisingly comfortable, even on rough terrain.
The foldable design is another highlight, making it a practical choice for those with limited storage space. I found it easy to fold and stow in my SUV’s trunk for a weekend trip, which isn’t always possible with mountain e-bikes this powerful. The 48V 20Ah battery delivers on its promise of long-range riding—I managed a 60-mile trip on a single charge in mixed pedal-assist mode, which is ideal for full-day excursions. The Shimano 7-speed gears shift smoothly, giving you flexibility to fine-tune your ride, while the intelligent LCD display keeps you informed about speed, battery life, and mileage with clarity.
Safety features are a big plus too. The 160mm double disc brakes stop on a dime, even in wet conditions, which gave me confidence during a rainy ride. The bright 600LM headlight and integrated taillight make night riding a breeze, ensuring you’re visible to others. The bike’s 400-pound payload capacity is also a standout, accommodating a wide range of riders and gear. Overall, the R5 Pro feels like a well-rounded package that balances power, comfort, and practicality for a variety of riding scenarios.
What We Don’t Like About the Burchda R5 Pro
While the R5 Pro is a stellar performer, it’s not without its quirks. The bike’s 74-pound weight can be a challenge when pedaling without electric assistance, especially on steep climbs. I found myself relying heavily on the motor in manual mode, which might disappoint riders who want a more traditional cycling experience. The folding mechanism, while convenient, takes a bit of practice to master, and I occasionally struggled to align the frame perfectly when unfolding it. This could be a minor annoyance for those who frequently fold and unfold the bike.
The battery, while impressive in capacity, is non-removable, which can be inconvenient for charging if you don’t have access to an outlet near your storage space. I also noticed that the LCD display, while functional, isn’t as intuitive as some competitors’ displays—it took me a bit to navigate the settings comfortably. Lastly, the bike’s muted green color looks darker in person than in promotional images, which might disappoint buyers expecting a brighter hue. These issues don’t detract from the overall experience, but they’re worth noting for potential buyers.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Powerful 1000W motor with 90Nm torque for excellent hill-climbing | Heavy 74-pound frame makes manual pedaling challenging |
| Long-range 48V 20Ah battery (up to 60-70 miles) | Non-removable battery limits charging convenience |
| Dual suspension system for a smooth, comfortable ride | Folding mechanism requires practice to use efficiently |
| 26×4.0-inch fat tires provide excellent traction on all terrains | LCD display could be more user-friendly |
| Reliable hydraulic disc brakes for safe stopping | Actual color darker than shown in some promotional images |
| Foldable design for easy storage and transport | |
| 400-pound payload capacity suits a wide range of riders |
What’s Included?
- Burchda R5 Pro Folding Electric Bike (95% pre-assembled)
- 48V 20Ah lithium-ion battery (non-removable)
- 3-amp rapid charger
- Two keys for battery security
- Front and rear metal fenders
- Rear storage rack (55-pound capacity)
- 600LM headlight with horn
- Integrated taillight and saddle light
- Free phone holder
- Installation tools (wrench, Allen keys)
- User manual and assembly guide
I’m genuinely impressed with the R5 Pro’s package—it comes with everything you need to hit the road right away. The inclusion of metal fenders and a sturdy rear rack is a nice touch, especially for commuters who need to carry gear. The phone holder is a small but thoughtful addition for navigation on the go, and the installation tools made the final assembly straightforward, even for someone with minimal bike-building experience. However, I was surprised that a spare battery or a carrying bag wasn’t included, given the bike’s focus on portability. These would have been valuable additions for long-distance riders or those frequently transporting the bike.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor | 1000W peak brushless geared hub motor (750W rated) |
| Battery | 48V 20Ah lithium-ion (960Wh) |
| Range | 60-70 miles (pure electric), 100 miles (pedal-assist) |
| Max Speed | 30 mph |
| Weight | 74 pounds |
| Payload Capacity | 400 pounds |
| Tires | 26×4.0-inch fat tires |
| Gears | Shimano 7-speed with Tourney derailleur |
| Brakes | 160mm hydraulic double disc brakes |
| Suspension | Hydraulic front fork, four-bar linkage rear suspension |
| Frame | 6061 aluminum, foldable |
| Display | Intelligent color LCD with USB charging port |
Features
- 1000W Peak Power Motor: Delivers 90Nm of torque for rapid acceleration and strong hill-climbing ability.
- 48V 20Ah Battery: Provides a range of 60-70 miles in electric mode and up to 100 miles in pedal-assist mode.
- 26×4.0-Inch Fat Tires: Ensures excellent traction on loose surfaces like mud, snow, or sand.
- Dual Suspension System: Combines hydraulic front fork and four-bar linkage for a smooth ride.
- Shimano 7-Speed Gears: Offers versatile speed options for varied terrains.
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes: 160mm brakes provide reliable stopping power in all conditions.
- Foldable Aluminum Frame: Allows easy storage and transport in compact spaces.
- Intelligent LCD Display: Shows speed, battery level, mileage, and allows mode adjustments.
- Safety Features: Includes a 600LM headlight, horn, taillight, and saddle light for enhanced visibility.
- Five Riding Modes: Electric, pedal-assist, cruise, manual, and walk modes for tailored riding.
- 400-Pound Payload Capacity: Supports a wide range of riders and cargo.
The R5 Pro’s feature set is a strong blend of power and practicality. The 1000W motor is a standout, offering enough grunt to tackle steep hills and rough trails without breaking a sweat. The fat tires and dual suspension make it feel like you’re gliding over obstacles, which is a huge plus for off-road adventures. The Shimano gears shift smoothly, and the hydraulic brakes inspire confidence, especially in wet or tricky conditions. However, the non-removable battery is a slight drawback for those who need flexible charging options, and the LCD display could be more intuitive. Overall, the features deliver a well-rounded experience that caters to both thrill-seekers and practical commuters.
Final Breakdown
8.5/10
The Burchda R5 Pro Folding Electric Bike is a powerhouse that excels in versatility, making it a fantastic choice for riders who want to explore both urban and off-road environments. Its robust motor, long-range battery, and thoughtful design—like the foldable frame and fat tires—make it a joy to ride, whether you’re commuting to work or hitting the trails. While the weight, non-removable battery, and slightly tricky folding mechanism are minor drawbacks, they don’t overshadow the bike’s overall performance and value. For a middle-tier e-bike, it punches above its weight, offering premium features at a reasonable cost.
I wholeheartedly recommend the R5 Pro to anyone seeking a reliable, powerful, and portable e-bike. It’s perfect for adventurers, commuters, or anyone who wants a bike that can do it all. If you’re ready to embrace the freedom of electric biking, the Burchda R5 Pro won’t disappoint—it’s built to make every ride extraordinary.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | BIGUODIR 1000W/2000W Dual Motor Electric Bike Adult, 48V 30Ah/20Ah Battery, 26” Fat Tire Full… | $1,399.99 | View on Amazon |
