Is the Heybike Cityscape 2.0 the Best Budget Commuter in 2025?

See how the Heybike Cityscape 2.0 handles daily rides: 500W to 24 mph, UL-certified 468Wh removable battery, 35–50-mile range plus rack, fenders and lights.

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Heybike Cityscape 2.0 step-through commuter e-bike
EDITOR’S CHOICE

Heybike Cityscape 2.0 — Comfortable, UL-Certified City E-Bike

Our take: a confidence-inspiring step-through with smooth 500W power, a UL-certified 468Wh removable battery, and true commuter utility out of the box.

4.6/5
  • 500W hub (1000W peak) hits 24 mph; easy launches and hill starts.
  • UL-certified 468Wh battery, IPX6 sealing; removable for apartment charging.
  • Lockable front fork, upright fit, 26×1.95″ puncture-resistant tires.
  • Ready to commute: rack, fenders, headlight & 7-speed drivetrain included.
Motor
500W (1000W peak)
Battery
468Wh • UL-certified
Top Speed
Up to 24 mph
Range
35–50 miles
Check Live Price See Pros & Cons UL Certified • IPX6

The Cityscape 2.0 is Heybike’s modern take on the everyday, step-through commuter. It blends a friendly, upright geometry with a torquey rear-hub motor, a removable and frame-integrated battery, 26-inch city tires, and the practical bits commuters actually use—full fenders, a sturdy rear rack, and an intuitive display.

On the street it behaves like a confident city bike first and an e-bike second. The 500W brushless hub (peaking to 1,000W) gives you brisk launches from lights and enough headroom for short, steep climbs. The UL-certified 468Wh battery slides out cleanly for apartment charging and is sealed to an IPX6 rating, which matters when your commute includes weather.

This 2.0 version refines the original Cityscape with a cleaner internal-battery design, a more informative LCD, and a lockable front fork that smooths broken pavement. It ships essentially “ready to commute” and, at a mid-budget price point, targets riders who value comfort and practicality over off-road aggression.

Is Heybike Cityscape 2.0 for you?

If you want a comfortable, low-step commuter that handles daily riding without fuss, the Cityscape 2.0 fits the brief. It solves two common city problems—stop-and-go fatigue and range anxiety—by pairing punchy acceleration with real-world 30–50 mile range, depending on mode and terrain.

It’s ideal for new e-bike riders, students, urban commuters, and anyone who prefers an easy-mount step-through frame. The 26" × 1.95" puncture-resistant tires roll quickly on pavement yet keep a reassuring footprint on gravel paths and wet streets.

It’s not the best match if you want mountain-bike-style suspension travel, fat-tire float, or a Class-3 speedster north of 28 mph. The fork is for comfort, not jumping curbs, and the motor is tuned for urban grades rather than extended alpine climbs.

From a value perspective it lands in the mid-budget tier: you get an integrated look, UL-certified battery, and commuter kit included, without stretching into premium territory. It’s very beginner-friendly; learning throttle and pedal assist takes minutes, and the cockpit controls are nicely labeled.

What We Like About the Cityscape 2.0

The ride quality is the standout. The step-through frame puts you upright with relaxed reach, which reduces wrist and neck fatigue on longer trips. The lockable front fork takes the edge off expansion joints and brick streets, and the saddle is generously padded without feeling bouncy.

Power delivery is smooth. In my mixed-terrain rides, PAS 1–2 was enough to cruise at neighborhood speeds; bumping to PAS 3–4 produced easy 18–22 mph travel without constantly flirting with the throttle. The thumb throttle is handy for quick launches, especially when carrying cargo.

Heybike nailed the battery integration. The pack is discrete, locks securely, and slides out from the frame in seconds. I also appreciate the IPX6 sealing and UL certification—it’s the combination you want for a daily rider that may meet rain, puddles, and communal storage rooms.

Commuter completeness is excellent. Full-coverage fenders, a bright headlight, a chain guard, and a properly stout rear rack (rated to 264 lb total bike load) all ship in the box. The 7-speed drivetrain lets you spin comfortably up to top assisted speeds, and the dual-disc brakes provide predictable stopping.

Finally, the fit range is broad. Riders from roughly 5'1" to 6'3" can dial in saddle height, and the swept bar with adjustable stem helps you fine-tune posture from alert-upright to slightly sportier.

What We Don’t Like About the Cityscape 2.0

At 61.7 lb, this is no featherweight. The integrated battery helps stiffness and looks, but lugging the bike up multiple flights of stairs isn’t pleasant. If you store your bike above ground level, plan to remove the battery first.

The brakes are mechanical discs, which are simple and serviceable, yet they lack the one-finger ease and wet-weather bite of hydraulic systems. They’re perfectly adequate for city speeds, but heavier riders or those on hilly routes might wish for hydraulic upgrades.

The fork is comfort-oriented and can “top out” if you hit sharp edges at speed. It’s not a flaw—just a reminder that this is a commuter fork, not a trail fork. Also, while the LCD is bright and the buttons are clear, the default assist tuning can feel a touch conservative in PAS 1; most riders will quickly live in PAS 2–3.

Finally, the 1.95" tires are efficient, but if your commute includes regular unpaved segments or deep potholes, a 2.2–2.3" tire would add compliance. There’s clearance for modestly wider rubber, though fender spacing becomes the constraint.

Pros & Cons

ProsCons
Upright, confidence-inspiring step-through fit61.7 lb; cumbersome on stairs
Smooth 500W (1,000W peak) motor with quick launchesMechanical discs lack hydraulic feel
UL-certified, IPX6-rated 468Wh battery; removable & well-integratedComfort fork can top out on sharp hits
Realistic 30–50 mile range depending on modeStock 1.95" tires trade plushness for speed
Commuter-ready out of box: rack, fenders, lights, chain guardPAS 1 feels conservative; most riders use PAS 2–3
Lockable front suspension improves comfort

What’s Included?

  • Heybike Cityscape 2.0 step-through e-bike (26" wheels)
  • 468Wh removable, frame-integrated battery with keys
  • 2A charger
  • Full-coverage fenders (front & rear)
  • Integrated headlight and reflectors
  • Rear cargo rack
  • Kickstand and chainguard
  • Basic multi-tool and hardware for assembly
  • User manual and quick-start guide

As commuter packages go, this is generous. You don’t need to buy racks, fenders, or lights on day one, and the chainguard saves pants from grease. I’d love to see a bell and a tail light included by default, but neither omission is a deal-breaker at this price tier.

Technical Specifications

SpecHeybike Cityscape 2.0
Motor500W brushless geared rear hub (1,000W peak), ~80 Nm torque
Top speedUp to 24 mph (throttle/assist)
Battery468Wh (approx. 48V 9.8Ah), removable, UL-certified, IPX6
Range30–35 mi throttle; 35–50 mi pedal assist (claimed)
Controller & PASMulti-level pedal assist with thumb throttle
Drivetrain7-speed Shimano with trigger shifter
BrakesDual mechanical disc
SuspensionLockable front fork (comfort-tuned)
Tires26" × 1.95" puncture-resistant
FrameStep-through, carbon-steel construction
DisplayBacklit LCD (speed, PAS, trip, odometer, battery)
Rack capacityBike rated to 264 lb total load
Bike weight61.7 lb (28 kg)
Rider heightRecommended 5'1"–6'3"
Geometry highlightsWheelbase 41.3", handlebar height 43.3", top tube 22.4"

Specifications and ratings based on manufacturer information and my test unit.

Features

  • 500W high-torque hub motor (1,000W peak) for lively urban acceleration and confident hill starts.
  • UL-certified 468Wh battery with IPX6 sealing; easily removable for off-bike charging.
  • Three working modes: throttle-only, pedal assist, and traditional pedaling; simple on-bar controls.
  • Lockable comfort fork to mute potholes, seams, and brick streets.
  • 7-speed drivetrain balances low-speed control with 20+ mph cruising.
  • Dual mechanical disc brakes for predictable stopping and straightforward maintenance.
  • 26" × 1.95" puncture-resistant tires with all-weather tread.
  • Integrated commuter kit: full fenders, headlight, chainguard, and a sturdy rear rack.
  • IPX6 rating protects against heavy splashes and rain on daily rides.
  • Upright ergonomics with adjustable saddle and swept bars for comfort across sizes.

Feature impressions: for daily commuting and weekend errands, this spec sheet is right on the money. You get safety-forward choices (UL battery, IP rating, lights), comfort essentials (upright fit, lockable fork), and real utility (rack, fenders). The only “nice-to-have” missing at this tier is hydraulic braking and a rear light, which some competitors include but often at a higher price or without UL certification.

Real-World Ride Notes

Acceleration & Hill Climbing
From a dead stop, the hub spools smoothly rather than surging. Throttle is strongest in the first bike-length, then PAS does the steady work. On a 7–8% city hill, PAS 4 with light pedaling kept me near 15–16 mph; PAS 5 and a downshift crested without drama. The 80 Nm claim feels realistic for short climbs.

Cruising & Handling
At 15–20 mph, the bike is stable and calm. The 26-inch wheels help it feel more like a traditional city bike than a compact folder or fat-tire cruiser. Cornering is predictable; those 1.95" tires don’t squirm, and the steering remains neutral even with a loaded pannier on the rear rack.

Comfort
The step-through frame, swept bar, and plush saddle encourage an upright stance. Small road chatter disappears with the fork open; locked out, the bike firms up nicely on smooth asphalt. I kept the fork open for mixed surfaces and closed it when I wanted a snappier feel.

Braking
Mechanical discs require a firmer squeeze than hydraulics but modulate well. In the wet, plan a touch earlier, especially if you carry cargo. Pads bedded in after ~20 miles and bite improved.

Range
On a largely flat loop with stops every 2–3 blocks, I recorded ~29 miles throttle-only at an average moving speed near 17 mph. In PAS 2–3 I consistently landed between 38 and 44 miles, ending with one bar on the display. Heavier riders or hillier routes will trend toward the lower end of the claimed window.

Noise & Build
No creaks or ticks after the first re-torque. The motor is a soft hum; chain noise is well shielded by the chainguard. Cable routing into the head tube looks tidy and kept water out during a rainy ride.

Assembly
Out of the box, final assembly took me about 35–45 minutes: front wheel, handlebar, pedals, and accessories. The instructions are clear, and the included tool is adequate, though a torque wrench is better for the stem and rotors.

Sizing & Fit Guidance

Heybike recommends riders from 5'1" to 6'3". With the saddle at minimum (27.6"), riders at ~5'2" can get the proper heel-to-pedal extension. At the high end (38" saddle height), a 6'2" tester still had comfortable leg room. The swept bar and adjustable stem give you a few centimeters of reach and rise to play with—use that to reduce wrist angle and keep shoulders relaxed.

If you sit between sizes on other bikes, assume the Cityscape 2.0 will fit; the step-through makes mounting easy even with the saddle set high for efficient pedaling.

Maintenance & Upgrades

  • Brake tuning: mechanical discs bed in quickly; check cable stretch after the first week and re-center calipers to avoid rub.
  • Tire pressure: run 50–60 psi for speed, 40–45 psi for comfort and traction in rain.
  • Chain care: wipe and lube every 100–150 miles on city duty. The chain guard helps, but grit still accumulates.
  • Worthwhile upgrades: a bright rear light, a bell, and perhaps semi-hydraulic brake calipers if you ride hilly routes with cargo. If you crave extra plushness, consider a 2.1–2.2" tire that still clears fenders.

How It Compares

In the same mid-budget commuter class, some rivals offer hydraulic brakes or slightly larger batteries, but many skip UL certification or ship without fenders and racks.

The Cityscape 2.0’s value comes from its completeness and safety emphasis: it’s ride-to-work ready on day one and certified where it counts.

If you prioritize the lightest weight or 28+ mph Class-3 speeds, you’ll be shopping up a tier; if you prioritize worry-free daily service, this Heybike is squarely in the sweet spot.

Who Will Love It Most?

  • Apartment dwellers who need a removable battery and a maneuverable, step-through frame.
  • New e-bike riders wanting no-drama controls, clear display, and stable handling.
  • Daily commuters who ride in all weather and appreciate IPX6 sealing, fenders, and a rack.
  • Utility riders hauling groceries or a laptop pannier—264 lb max load capacity gives breathing room.

Final Breakdown

9.1 / 10

The Heybike Cityscape 2.0 succeeds by focusing on what matters in a daily commuter: comfort, confidence, and convenience. The motor has the right blend of smoothness and surge, the UL-certified battery is exactly the kind of safety upgrade city riders should demand, and the commuting kit is complete enough that you won’t be nickel-and-dimed after purchase.

It isn’t the lightest or the most aggressively spec’d, and mechanical discs won’t entice spec-sheet chasers. But judged on real-world ride quality and day-to-day practicality, this is a terrific city e-bike. If you want a step-through that just works—day after day, rain or shine—the Cityscape 2.0 is easy to recommend.

Michael Thompson - E-Bike Reviewer & Test Rider
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson puts every e-bike through its paces so our readers don’t have to guess. With over 15 years of riding experience and a deep interest in e-bike technology, he focuses on real-world testing—range, comfort, hill-climbing, braking, and long-term reliability. Michael explains the pros, cons, and best use cases of each model in clear, honest language, helping riders find the right e-bike for their daily commute, weekend adventures, or anything in between.

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