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Emerald Folding Electric Bike
Price: $1499
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Overall Score
I Like the Way This Looks | Emerald Folding Electric Bike
If there is ever a type of bike that I don't see very often, it is the Emerald Folding Electric Bike. You're probably thinking, "Mike, there are plenty of foldable fat bikes out there, so what are you talking about?" It's true that most folding fat bikes have all-terrain tires, but this one is different. It features smooth commuter tires with a cool sidewall, mounted on BMX-style rims, creating a truly unique and eye-catching bike.
Emerald's Folding Electric Bike is their first venture into the e-bike market, and it's fascinating to see where they focused their efforts. Some e-bike brands prioritize power, investing in high-speed motors, while others prioritize comfort. Emerald seems to strike a balance by partnering with top-notch brands, such as Samsung, Shimano, Promax, Compass, and Welgo, among others. With a mix of premium components, they've created a bike that offers a well-rounded experience.
The bike comes equipped with high-quality leather grips, top-tier brake levers, and a sleek LCD screen. However, it also includes standard components like a Shimano shifter, an inexpensive throttle, and a decent saddle. These choices suggest that Emerald didn't solely invest in power, as the top speed for pedal assist is 21 mph and 22 mph for throttle, indicating a relatively slower acceleration, similar to a single-motor scooter, and not enough torque for steep hill climbs.
Given the performance, it's likely that Emerald focused their resources on optimizing the bike's range. However, it turns out that the range is fairly average. A test recorded 157 miles with 1,120 feet of elevation gain, and an average speed of 20 mph. While this is by no means a disappointing range, it doesn't stand out as exceptional. The bike does feature hydraulic brakes, which are pricier than standard disc brakes, offering decent stopping power, although the front brake can be somewhat noisy, especially at low speeds.
Comparing the Emerald Folding Electric Bike to similar brands in terms of price and design, it ranks close to the top in terms of performance. It boasts a fast speed, ties for the second fastest acceleration, handles hill climbs well, and offers a competitive range. This suggests that Emerald allocated its resources effectively to compete with its rivals, achieving a well-rounded and balanced product.
What might be misleading about this bike is its appearance, which conveys power and speed. However, in reality, it's a slow and easygoing commuter bike. Once you adjust your expectations, you'll appreciate its strengths. We'd love to hear your thoughts on this bike in the comments, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask. Thanks for watching, and take care!
