Thu Sep 26 15:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Engwe P275 ST: Quirky Looks, Sensible Design, Questionable Commitment?
The Engwe P275 ST, a new electric bike from Chinese manufacturer Engwe, is turning heads with its distinctive design. Featuring a slanted battery integrated into the seatpost and oversized cowhorn handlebars, the bike’s aesthetics might be polarizing, but the design choices ultimately work well for city riding.
Weighing in at 25.6kg, the P275 ST is surprisingly lightweight for a full-size e-bike with a powerful 70Nm mid-drive motor and a large 690Wh battery. This departure from Engwe’s usual bulky, fat-tire models suggests a shift towards lighter, more efficient machines.
The bike offers a comfortable and safe riding position thanks to its upright design, large-volume tires, and comfortable seat. The powerful mid-drive motor, though not as powerful as some others, makes light work of hills and the 690Wh battery promises a range of around 35 miles, potentially reaching 40-50 miles in less demanding conditions.
Other features include Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, a nine-speed Shimano derailleur system, integrated mudguards, a rear rack, and a bright front light.
However, the bike isn’t without its drawbacks. The brake levers are incorrectly positioned, a common issue with Far East e-bikes. This, along with Engwe’s questionable commitment to the UK market (including several illegally powerful e-bikes on their website and a TrustScore unavailable due to Trustpilot violations) raises concerns about their reliability and customer support.
Despite these issues, the Engwe P275 ST offers compelling value for money, especially considering its powerful motor, large battery, and comfortable design. At £1,499, it stands out in the crowded mid-drive e-bike market, particularly for step-through models. While the questionable commitment to the UK market might be a deal-breaker for some, the bike’s overall performance and design make it a strong contender for city riders looking for a comfortable and powerful e-bike.
First Piper 