Cargo ebikes are increasingly seen as practical alternatives to cars, especially for short commutes, but one common issue has been their limited range. Riders often find themselves charging more than riding, which can make the switch from car to ebike less appealing. Engwe aims to address this issue with the launch of the LE20, a fat-tire cargo ebike designed for long-haul trips. The LE20 promises an impressive range of over 200 miles on a single charge, positioning itself as a game changer for those who need both cargo capacity and extended battery life.
Designed for the modern commuter
Engwe has designed the LE20 to offer a hassle-free commuting experience, reducing common road stresses like traffic, parking fees, and fuel costs. According to the company, the LE20 is the longest-range cargo ebike available today. It runs on a powerful 750-watt rear-hub motor, which can peak at 1,300 watts, providing up to 75 Nm (55 lb.ft) of torque. This makes it capable of delivering pedal-assist up to speeds of 28 mph, or allowing riders to roll throttle-only at speeds of up to 20 mph without pedaling.
For European customers, the LE20 is equipped with a mid-drive motor instead of the rear-hub motor, which produces 100 Nm of torque but caps the top speed at 25 km/h to comply with regional regulations. Both versions come equipped with a Shimano 7-speed gearset, giving riders flexibility in varying terrain.
Battery capacity and range
What sets the LE20 apart from many other cargo ebikes on the market is its impressive range, which is made possible by the option of dual batteries. Riders can choose to equip the bike with two 48V/19.2-Ah batteries, giving it a total capacity of 1,844 Wh. This setup provides a maximum pedal-assist range of 211 miles on a single charge, though riders in Europe could stretch that to 350 km. Of course, these range figures are achieved under ideal conditions, including using the lowest pedal-assist level and keeping the total weight (rider and cargo) under 165 lb (75 kg). Heavier loads and higher assist levels will shorten the range, as with any electric vehicle.
To complement its long-range capabilities, Engwe offers an 8-A fast charger as an optional add-on. With this, riders can recharge both batteries within 4 to 6 hours, making it easier to get back on the road quickly. A color display located mid-handlebar provides vital information such as battery status and speed. This display can be synced with a mobile app for additional control options and riding insights.
Built for practicality and comfort
The LE20 is constructed with a durable 6061 aluminum frame and is available in two colors: gray and blue. It is equipped with a rear rack and wheel boards designed to protect both cargo and passengers. The bike itself weighs 81.1 lb (36.8 kg), yet it can handle a maximum load of up to 440 lb (200 kg), which includes the rider’s weight. This makes the LE20 a practical choice for those who need to haul goods or even transport passengers over long distances.
Riding comfort is also a priority, with a suspension fork that works in tandem with the 3-inch puncture-resistant fat tires wrapped around the bike’s 20-inch wheels. This combination helps absorb shocks from uneven terrain, making for a smoother ride. Hydraulic disc brakes with 180-mm rotors ensure reliable stopping power, while integrated lighting, including a braking tail-light with turn signals, adds an extra layer of safety.
Pricing and availability
The Engwe LE20 fat-tire cargo ebike is competitively priced at $1,300 for the single-battery model. For those looking to maximize their range, the dual-battery version is available for $1,699. Accessories such as racks, panniers, padded seats, and rails can also be purchased separately to enhance the bike’s functionality. While the bike is already available for customers in the U.S., European riders will need to wait until next month to place their pre-orders.
Product page: LE20
