Tenways CGO600 Pro Review: Dites Adieu aux Voitures pour le Trajet

Tenways CGO600 Pro Review: Dites Adieu aux Voitures pour le Trajet

Le Tenways CGO600 Pro est un vélo électrique idéal pour les trajets quotidiens, offrant une assistance pédalée sans manette d’accélérateur, avec une vitesse de pointe de 20 mph et une autonomie annoncée de 53 miles. Mais un poids légèrement élevé et des pneus efficaces mais rigides affectent le confort. Bien qu’il puisse ne pas séduire les cyclistes passionnés, son coût compétitif de 1 699 $ en fait une option attractive pour ceux qui cherchent à réduire leurs dépenses de transport sans posséder de voiture.

If I had a typical daily commute, an electric bike like the Tenways CGO600 Pro would be a staple in my garage. Working from home allows me to test various e-bikes, a privilege I truly value. With over 20 years in automotive journalism, I am indeed a car aficionado. My previous e-bike review delves into how I blend my passion for cars with cycling. I recognize that many e-bike buyers can’t afford a car or the associated expenses. Thus, I view this as more than just an expensive toy—it’s a practical tool. The Garage is dedicated to all mechanical wonders, and I will approach this review like any other machine assessment.

The Tenways e-bike represents a quintessential « normal commuter bike » in both aesthetics and functionality. Most people would overlook it, which suits me perfectly as I prioritize utility in my e-bike purchase. This utility means not only saving money on fuel but also reducing car maintenance costs. Additionally, I avoid the common hassles of parking and enjoy the mental health benefits of cycling in the fresh air and sunshine. There’s something remarkably satisfying about gliding past cars stuck in traffic.

Key Takeaway

It has been ages since I’ve felt range anxiety in an electric vehicle. Unfortunately, I cannot say the same when cycling. The Tenways e-bike lacks a throttle and offers only assistive power, yet it reassures me that I can still return home if I’m unwell, facing wind, or needing to change my route significantly.

The bike’s power cuts off at 20 mph, which is quite fast for a standard commuter bike. Tenways advertises a range of 53 miles, but even when I exert myself, I manage around 45 miles on the 10 Ah battery. Weighing 215 pounds and standing over six feet tall, I’m not exactly optimized for weight or aerodynamics.

If you’re an e-biker looking for flair, this might not be your ideal choice. It has a sleek but low-key appearance; you might need to look closely to spot the battery hidden in the downtube or the 350-watt rear hub motor. The riding experience is akin to a standard pedal bike. The single-speed gearing is rather high for getting started without assist, but the absence of a derailleur and the use of a Gates Carbon belt drive mean virtually no maintenance for the drivetrain.

This bike weighs a bit over 42 pounds, which is noticeable when maneuvering it in a garage or lifting it onto a maintenance stand. On the road, it behaves like most commuter bikes, offering more responsiveness than a contemporary mountain bike but lacking the sharp cornering of a true road bike. If it were mine, the first modification would be the puncture-proof tires, which feel stiff and unyielding. I would also replace the pedals for better grip, potentially risking shin injuries. For those who haven’t cycled since childhood, this will be an impressive bike. Cycling enthusiasts will find it a solid urban commuter option. At $1,699.00, it’s a competitive price for an aluminum e-bike with hydraulic disc brakes and a reliable Gates drivetrain.

What a Car Enthusiast Sees in E-Bikes Like the Tenways

E-bikes may not cater to everyone, but they are perfect for many who have never contemplated them. Some automotive enthusiasts fear that e-bikes could somehow usher in the decline of cars. Likewise, serious cyclists worry they may replace traditional bicycles. However, if a Triumph Daytona, which accelerates from 0-60 in 3.5 seconds and revs to 12,000 RPM for under $10,000 isn’t putting cars out of business, e-bikes certainly won’t.

As for road cyclists, the industry will continue producing high-end pedal bikes for those willing to spend upwards of $15,000, and encouraging more people to ride is beneficial overall. As I tackle a steep incline on my pedal bike and watch the Sun City Senior Cycling and Canasta Club pass me by, I take comfort in knowing I can still ride in my 80s.

Many short car trips contribute little to warming the drivetrain, which is detrimental to vehicle health. Additionally, these trips often lead to destinations with poor parking for cars but ample bike racks. Convenience is invaluable; the last time I refueled my car, I paid over $4 per gallon. I charge the e-bikes I test using solar energy, resulting in no cost. Should the Tenways 36v 10Ah battery reach empty, recharging it would only cost approximately $0.06 at $0.17 per kWh.

Driving my 2019 VW Tiguan, I’m lucky to achieve 20 mpg in urban