As a snowboarder, the off-season can feel like a letdown. It’s long, hot and totally devoid of snow.
I’m therefore always on the lookout for activities that keep the adrenaline pumping and the muscles working.
Enter the Himiway Zebra All-terrain Electric Fat Bike. This e-bike caught my eye as a potential game-changer for staying active and engaged during the snowless months.
As someone who’s spent more days on snow than on a bike saddle, I was curious to see how the Zebra could bridge that gap.
Product Roundup
- Battery 48V 20Ah Samsung/LG lithium
- Range 60-80miles
- Hub Motor 750W brushless gear motor
- Total Payload Capacity 400 lb.
- Charger US standard 3.0 A smart charger
- Controller 48V/22A
- Display LCD display with USB charging
- Weight 79 lb.
- Pedal Assist Intelligent 0~5 levels
Verdict:
Despite a few cons, the Himiway Zebra is a fantastic off-season companion for snowboarders. It keeps you active, explores new terrains, and most importantly, it's a whole lot of fun. It mirrors the thrill of snowboarding in many ways while providing a fresh perspective on the outdoors. I'd definitely recommend it to my fellow riders looking to stay sharp and adventurous when the snow melts.
- Date: Nov 1, 2023 - Nov 30, 2023
- ÂŁ300 OFF: Zebra & Cruiser
- ÂŁ200 OFF: Big Dog & Cobra
- 20% OFF: All Accessories
- Use code SBD for an additional ÂŁ80 off!
Pros and Cons
- Terrain Adaptability: The Zebra's fat tires are a standout feature. They grip like a dream on a variety of terrains, including dirt trails and sandy paths.
- Electric Assistance: The electric boost is a gem. It means I can cover more ground without burning out, making it perfect for longer explorations.
- Battery Life: With a robust battery life, I've managed several long rides without worrying about recharging. This is great for those full-day adventures.
- Build Quality: It feels sturdy and well-built. Whether it's navigating rocky paths or zooming downhill, the Zebra gives a sense of confidence and reliability.
- Fun Factor: It's just plain fun. The speed, the ease of handling, and the freedom to explore diverse terrains keep the off-season blues at bay.
- Weight: It's on the heavier side, making transport a bit of a workout in itself. This could be a drawback for those used to lighter bikes (especially if you run out of charge).
- Price Point: It's an investment. While the quality justifies the cost, it might be steep for casual riders.
- Learning Curve: For those new to electric bikes, there's a learning curve, especially in mastering the balance between pedaling and using the electric assist.
- Maintenance: Like any high-tech gear, it requires regular maintenance to keep it in top shape. This might feel like a new responsibility for some.
Detailed Review:
1. Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the Himiway Zebra stands out with its robust frame and eye-catching design. It looks tough, ready for adventure, and most importantly… powerful!
The frame, constructed from durable materials, promises longevity and resilience, two things we snowboarders value in our gear.
Its fat tires immediately draw attention; they’re not just for show, as I’ll discuss later, but they also contribute to the bike’s overall rugged appeal.
In comparison to a traditional mountain bike, the Zebra has a more commanding presence. I took it over sand, mud, dirt tracks, roads and untamed fields. It evened handled our favorite weather condition, snow!
2. Technical Specifications
Now, let’s talk tech. The Zebra’s motor packs a punch, offering enough power to tackle steep hills with ease.
The 750W gear hub motor also promises speeds of 25mph (even higher when derestricted… but you didn’t read that here!).Â
For those of us used to the exertion of a snowboarding session, this electric assist means we can enjoy a similar level of intensity without overexertion. The battery life is impressive; on a single charge, I’ve managed rides that lasted a whole day with power to spare.
This endurance is especially crucial for those long explorations that mirror a day out on the slopes. In terms of speed, the Zebra can cruise comfortably, giving that familiar rush we get from racing downhill.Â
It has a throttle which can tackle low speeds entirely pedal-free, which was super helpful for pushing the bike uphill too. The pedal-assist has settings ranging from levels 1 through 5. On level 5, a single pedal is enough to get you to 15-20mph on flat. Crazy!
3. Unboxing and Setup
I naively hadn’t anticipated the bike needing some construction following delivery. Bummer!
Having said that, it was super easy. I essentially only needed to attach the front wheel, lights and mudguards. This was super straightforward and the instructions were easy to follow (even for a DIY rookie such as myself).Â
The box and packaging was super study. No idea where it shipped from, but it arrived in immaculate condition.
Fair warning, when boxed up this thing weighs a ton! You’ll need two people to lift it (unless you’re some sort of winter demigod).Â
4. Handling and Performance
Handling and performance are where the Zebra truly shines, much like a well-waxed board on a fresh powder day.
The bike’s ability to navigate diverse terrains, from muddy paths to rocky inclines, is commendable. It feels stable and secure, a necessity when transitioning from the predictable bike paths to the unpredictability of off-road trails.
I found the Zebra’s performance in wet conditions particularly impressive; its grip on slippery surfaces is reminiscent of the infamous Magne-Traction.Â
5. Comfort and Usability
Comfort is paramount, whether strapped into a snowboard or seated on your bike. The Himiway Zebra delivers in this department.
The seat is comfortable for long rides, crucial for those extended excursions. The bike’s suspension smooths out the bumps and jolts, though it’s of course a hardtail so don’t expect crazy downhill performance.
For someone not entirely at home on two wheels, the Zebra’s user-friendly features, like its intuitive controls and clear display, made the transition from snow to trail less daunting. The ease of use is a big plus for both seasoned riders and those new to electric bikes.
6. Battery Life and Charging
One aspect of the Himiway Zebra that truly stands out is its battery life. In real-world conditions, the bike consistently exceeded my expectations. I found myself embarking on longer rides without the constant worry of running out of juice.
Does the bike match the advertised 80 miles per charge? Not quite. I guess this depends on the terrain you ride and how much you rely on the motor.Â
I got about 50 miles on a full charge (admittedly over some pretty hilly terrain). I was still pretty stoked on this though.Â
The charging process is straightforward and efficient, though it does require some planning. If you run out of charge halfway through your ride, you can of course still pedal home. But it’s a pretty heavy bike and you’ll for sure miss that e-assist!Â
7. Value for Money
When it comes to value, the Himiway Zebra sits at a higher price point, but it’s important to consider what you’re getting for the money.
Its durability, performance, and versatility make it more than just a leisure bike – it’s an all-season, all-terrain vehicle that can stand in as a worthy off-season training tool for snowboarders.
For those serious about maintaining their physical condition and seeking adventure year-round, the Zebra could be a wise long-term investment.
Looking for a lightweight commuter bike? This ain’t it!
8. Speed
Man, this thing is fast!
I’m a pretty big guy (especially following summer beer and barbecues). The Zebra had no problem assisting me to 25mph, even on some moderately steep hills. In fact, on assist level 5, I had to be a little careful not to jettison into cars/people/houses.Â
One pedal was enough to propel me to 20mph on flat ground. Madness.Â
There is also a throttle, however don’t expect high speeds from that (I believe it’s against regulations to allow higher speeds without pedal-assist). I’ve heard rumors that the bike can be derestricted to much higher speeds… but I couldn’t possibly comment on this legally dubious practice (at least publicly).Â
Things I Liked
All-Terrain Capability: The Zebra’s ability to smoothly handle a variety of terrains was a standout. I even took it along the beach (though I’m not sure whether the manufacturer recommends that).Â
Electric Assist: This feature is a game-changer. It allows for longer rides with less fatigue, mirroring the ease of a chairlift on the slopes.
Build Quality: The robust build of this bike provides a sense of security and reliability. It’s a heavy-duty unit for sure!
Battery Life: The long battery life is impressive, allowing for extended adventures without the constant need to recharge.
Fun Factor: It’s just plain fun to ride. The sense of speed and freedom it offers is reminiscent of bombing a steep face. I sent it down some pretty gnarly hills and the electric assist took me straight back around for another lap.
Things I Didn’t Like
Weight: Its weight can be cumbersome, especially when transporting the bike or navigating through tight spots.
Price: The Zebra is a significant investment, which might not be justifiable for everyone, especially casual riders or those on a budget.
Maintenance Needs: Regular maintenance is needed to keep the bike in top shape, which can be a bit of a learning curve for those not mechanically inclined.
Learning Curve with Electric Assist: Getting used to the electric assist takes some time, especially for those new to electric bikes. I overshot a few corners initially (especially on level 5).Â
Conclusion
To wrap it up, the Himiway Zebra All-terrain Electric Fat Bike is a formidable contender for snowboarders looking to stay active in the off-season.
Its robust build, impressive battery life, and terrain versatility make it an excellent choice for those seeking a snowboarding-like thrill on two wheels.
While the weight and price may be considerations, the overall quality and performance it offers are outstanding.
For those who see the off-season not as downtime but as an opportunity to explore and stay in shape, the Zebra is definitely worth considering. It’s more than just a bike; it’s a distraction until winter raises its gnarly little head once more.
Happy riding folks!