ENGWE O20 Boost in purple at Fatbikeskopen.nl

Purple is the rarest color available for the ENGWE O20 Boost, and it works surprisingly well on a compact folding bike: the small frame keeps the color from feeling too heavy. Under the paint, nothing changes. An LG battery with 720 watt-hours, two honestly stated ranges, 75 newton-meters of torque, hydraulic disc brakes with dual pistons, a low step-through, and Shimano Altus gears.

Two stated ranges

ENGWE states a range of 108 kilometers in the most economical mode and 80 kilometers in the highest. The second figure is what you use in practice, because hardly anyone rides an entire trip in mode one. The fact that a manufacturer publishes both figures makes the claim useful rather than promotional. The 720-watt-hour battery contains LG cells and is removable, so you can charge it indoors while the bike stays in the shed. You can charge it from a regular wall outlet, so no separate setup is required. A battery lasts longer if you do not routinely run it completely empty and charge it indoors during winter. A torque sensor determines how much assistance you receive based on your own pedaling force, allowing the motor to respond gradually instead of switching assistance on in bursts.

Folding with a low step-through

Combining folding with a step-through design is technically difficult, because both require removing material in places where you need stiffness. ENGWE therefore uses a sturdier frame, which is reflected in the weight of 26.5 kilograms. Folding works well, then, but lifting is less convenient. Think of it as a bike you slide into a car trunk or store more compactly in a storage area, not one you carry up a flight of stairs every day.

Brakes, suspension, and lighting

Hydraulic disc brakes with dual pistons and 160-millimeter rotors at the front and rear. Dual pistons provide more braking power with the same lever force, which is noticeable at this weight. The front fork has hydraulic suspension with 50 millimeters of travel and an adjustable lockout, allowing you to lock the suspension on smooth asphalt. The lighting is K-Mark certified, meaning the headlight shines in a focused direction without dazzling oncoming traffic. The lights are permanently mounted on the bike and run on the main battery. The tires have puncture protection, which makes a real difference with a heavy bike that you cannot easily turn upside down.

Seventy-five newton-meters and fast charging

You notice torque when accelerating and climbing, not at top speed, and 75 newton-meters is substantial for a hub motor. You feel it immediately when setting off from a standstill and riding up a bridge. The motor delivers 250 W with assistance up to 25 kilometers per hour, so under Dutch regulations this remains a regular electric bicycle. Charging takes about three and a half hours, short enough to top it up during the day without planning around an overnight charge. A battery lasts longer if you do not routinely drain it completely and charge it indoors during winter. The stated range is always a test value, so expect somewhat less in practice.

Who is the ENGWE O20 Boost for?

For commuters who want a folding bike with plenty of range and easy step-through access, and who are looking for a color you will not see anywhere else. The recommended rider height is approximately 1.50 to 1.95 meters, with a maximum total weight of 150 kilograms. Note: 20-inch wheels and 26.5 kilograms. For a bike you have to carry every day, this is too heavy; for compact storage, it is just right. Consider where you will store the bike, as that often matters more than the specifications. For commuting within built-up areas, this equipment is more than sufficient.

Ordering from Fatbikeskopen.nl

You need to see a distinctive color in person, and you only feel 75 newton-meters when riding the bike. So visit one of the ten showrooms and schedule a test ride. For maintenance, you can visit more than 450 locations in the Netherlands. If you order online, the bike will be delivered to your home ready to ride. You can arrange insurance when placing your order. Three-year warranty on the frame and one year on parts and the battery.

See also: ENGWE e-bikes | e-bikes | electric city bikes | e-bikes for adults