The Riding’times Z8 Electric Fat Tire Bike (Upgraded Version) is a robust and versatile e-bike designed to cater to various riding needs, whether it’s commuting, adventuring, or simply cruising around town. Priced at $899, this bike offers a comprehensive set of features, making it a compelling choice in the sub-$1000 e-bike market. In this review, we will explore its design, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Introduction
Riding’times, established in 2006 in New Jersey, has built a reputation for delivering high-quality electric bikes equipped with top-notch components. The Z8 is their latest offering, boasting significant upgrades over previous models. This bike is designed for those who need a reliable, powerful, and comfortable ride across various terrains, from city streets to mountain trails.
Positive Aspects
Performance and Power
The Z8’s 1500W peak brushless hub motor is a standout feature, offering impressive power for steep climbs and high-speed rides. It reaches speeds of up to 28 mph in pure electric mode, providing a thrilling ride while ensuring efficiency with its 7-speed gear system.
This motor makes the bike ideal for various riding conditions, whether you’re navigating hilly terrain or cruising on flat roads. The motor’s peak power capability also ensures that the bike can handle demanding situations, such as carrying heavy loads or traversing rough terrain, without compromising on performance.
Suspension and Comfort
Equipped with a 6-layer full suspension system, including dual front fork shock absorbers and seat springs, the Z8 ensures a smooth and comfortable ride. The 20″ x 4″ fat tires add to the bike’s shock absorption capabilities, making it suitable for rough terrains like mountains, snow, and sand.
This comprehensive suspension setup sets the Z8 apart from many competitors, offering unparalleled comfort and stability. The suspension system not only enhances the ride quality but also reduces the impact on the rider’s body, making long journeys less tiring and more enjoyable.
Range and Battery
The bike’s 15.6AH removable battery delivers up to 40 miles on a single charge in electric-only mode and up to 75 miles in pedal-assist mode. This long-range capability makes the Z8 perfect for long-distance rides and daily commutes.
The battery is also designed with a key lock for security and can be charged conveniently at home or the office. The battery’s performance is optimized by its integration with the bike’s intelligent power management system, ensuring efficient energy use and prolonged battery life.
Additionally, the battery’s waterproof rating of IP54 means it can withstand splashes and light rain, adding to the bike’s durability and reliability.
Versatility and Modes
The Z8 offers three riding modes: electric-only, pedal-assist, and regular bike mode. This versatility allows riders to switch between modes based on their needs and preferences, whether they seek a fully powered ride, an assisted experience, or a traditional biking workout.
The intelligent LCD display panel helps manage these modes effortlessly, providing real-time data on speed, mileage, and battery life.
This adaptability makes the Z8 suitable for a variety of scenarios, from daily commutes to weekend adventures. Riders can customize their riding experience, optimizing for either performance or battery conservation depending on the situation.
Build Quality and Design
Riding’times has ensured that the Z8 is built to last with a strong and durable frame that can support up to 300 lbs. The bike is designed to accommodate riders ranging from 5’3” to 6’1”, making it a flexible option for various body types.
Its CNC-machined shocks and high-elasticity memory foam seat further enhance the riding experience, offering both durability and comfort.
The design also includes practical features such as full-coverage fenders, which protect riders from mud and water splashes, and a robust kickstand for stable parking.
The attention to detail in the bike’s design reflects Riding’times’ commitment to quality and user satisfaction.
Safety Features
The Z8 includes several safety features such as front and rear mechanical disc brakes and an EABS system, ensuring powerful braking performance.
The bright LED headlights and taillights increase visibility during nighttime rides, enhancing overall safety.
The bike also features a horn and reflectors, further improving rider safety in various conditions.
These safety features make the Z8 a reliable choice for urban environments, where quick and responsive braking can prevent accidents and improve overall ride safety.
Negative Aspects
Weight
At 78.3 lbs, the Z8 is relatively heavy, which might pose challenges when transporting or storing the bike. The weight can also make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces or carry up stairs.
This aspect might deter some users, especially those looking for a more lightweight option.
However, the bike’s sturdy construction and robust components, which contribute to its weight, also provide enhanced durability and stability, ensuring a longer lifespan and reliable performance over time.
Charging Time
The battery requires 6-8 hours to fully charge, which can be inconvenient for users who need a quick turnaround between rides.
While the long-range capability compensates for this to some extent, the charging time might be a drawback for riders with limited charging opportunities. It is advisable to plan charging sessions overnight or during periods of inactivity to mitigate this issue.
Furthermore, the convenience of a removable battery means it can be charged separately from the bike, adding some flexibility to the charging process.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High Performance: The powerful 1500W motor and 7-speed gear system ensure a dynamic and responsive ride.
- Long Range: With up to 75 miles on a single charge in pedal-assist mode, it’s great for long rides and commutes.
- Versatility: Three riding modes cater to different riding preferences and needs.
- Comfort: The 6-level full suspension and fat tires provide a smooth and stable ride on various terrains.
- Safety: Dual disc brakes and bright LED lights enhance safety during rides.
Cons
- Weight: At 78.3 lbs, it may be heavy for some users to handle.
- Charging Time: A 6-8 hour charging time might be inconvenient for some riders.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
High Performance | Weight (78.3 lbs) |
Long Range | Charging Time (6-8 hours) |
Versatility | |
Comfort | |
Safety |
Package Contents
The Z8 arrives 90% pre-assembled, making it easy to set up. The package includes the bike, a removable battery with a key lock, a charger, and tools necessary for assembly.
The inclusion of a comprehensive user manual and access to customer support further simplifies the setup process. Overall, the package contents are satisfactory, providing everything needed to get started quickly.
The pre-assembly reduces the hassle and time required to get the bike ready for use, ensuring that even those with minimal technical skills can complete the setup without difficulty.
Technical Specifications
- Model: Z8 (Upgraded Version)
- Motor: 1500W peak rear gear hub motor
- Battery: 48V / 15.6Ah removable battery
- Range: Up to 40 miles (electric-only), up to 75 miles (pedal-assist)
- Top Speed: 28 mph (electric-only mode)
- Gears: 7-speed Shimano
- Tires: 20″x4″ all-terrain fat tires
- Suspension: 6-layer full suspension
- Brakes: Front and rear mechanical disc brakes
- Weight: 78.3 lbs
- Load Capacity: Up to 300 lbs
- Rider Height: 5’3” to 6’1”
- Charging Time: 6-8 hours
- LCD Display: Backlit with speedometer, odometer, trip odometer, pedal assist level, and clock
Features
Intelligent LCD Display
The backlit LCD provides essential information at a glance, including speed, mileage, remaining battery, and more. This feature ensures that riders are always informed about their ride status and can make adjustments as needed.
The display is easy to read even in bright sunlight, and its intuitive interface makes it accessible for users of all experience levels.
SHIMANO 7-Speed Gears
The 7-speed gear system allows riders to efficiently tackle various terrains. Whether climbing hills or cruising on flat surfaces, the gear system offers flexibility and ease of use.
The Shimano gears are known for their reliability and smooth shifting, enhancing the overall riding experience. This feature ensures that riders can maintain optimal speed and efficiency regardless of the terrain or riding conditions.
Front Fork and Rear Shock Absorbers
The dual front fork shock absorbers and rear shock absorbers provide excellent shock absorption, ensuring a smooth ride on rough terrains. This feature enhances comfort and reduces rider fatigue, making long rides more enjoyable.
The quality of the shock absorbers reflects the bike’s overall build quality, ensuring durability and long-term performance. The ability to adjust the suspension settings allows riders to customize their ride based on personal preference and terrain type.
Mechanical Disc Brakes
The mechanical disc brakes offer reliable stopping power, crucial for safety on diverse terrains. The EABS system adds an extra layer of security, providing consistent braking performance in various conditions.
This feature is particularly important for high-speed rides and steep descents, where reliable braking can prevent accidents and ensure rider safety.
The brakes are designed to perform well in both wet and dry conditions, making the bike suitable for all-weather riding.
Removable Battery with Lock
The battery’s design includes a key lock for security and easy removal for charging. This feature adds convenience, allowing users to charge the battery separately from the bike.
The battery’s large capacity ensures long rides without frequent charging, and its robust design guarantees durability and reliable performance.
The inclusion of a USB interface on the battery also provides a portable power source for charging devices on the go, adding to the bike’s practicality.
All-Terrain Fat Tires
The 20″x4″ fat tires are designed for all-terrain use, providing stability and traction on surfaces like snow, sand, and gravel.
These tires contribute to the bike’s versatility, making it suitable for adventurous rides. The wide tires enhance grip and control, improving safety and performance on challenging terrains.
Their durability also reduces the risk of punctures and wear, ensuring long-term reliability.
Customer Support and Warranty
Riding’times offers comprehensive customer support, including phone support, 24/7 email assistance, and four US-based repair centers.
The Z8 comes with a 2-year warranty on the motor, battery, and charger, reflecting the company’s confidence in their product’s quality and durability.
This level of support and warranty coverage provides peace of mind for buyers, ensuring that any issues or defects will be addressed promptly and professionally.
Conclusion
The Riding’times Z8 Electric Fat Tire Bike (Upgraded Version) is an impressive e-bike that offers a combination of power, comfort, and versatility.
Its robust motor, comprehensive suspension system, and long-range battery make it an excellent choice for both daily commutes and adventurous rides. While the bike’s weight and charging time are minor drawbacks, the overall performance and feature set far outweigh these concerns.
Final Score: 9/10
The Z8 scores highly for its powerful motor, durable design, and comfortable riding experience. It is a highly recommended option for those seeking a reliable and versatile e-bike.
Whether you’re navigating urban environments or exploring off-road trails, the Riding’times Z8 is equipped to handle it all with ease and style. The bike’s comprehensive features and thoughtful design make it a standout choice in the e-bike market, offering exceptional value and performance.