Heybike Alpha: The $1,699 All-Terrain E-Bike That Packs a Serious Punch
If you’re in the market for an electric bike that balances power, comfort, and affordability, Heybike new Alpha might just be your ride-or-die. With a fat-tire, all-terrain build and a powerful mid-drive motor, the Alpha delivers a surprisingly smooth and natural ride for its $1,699 price tag.
Whether you’re commuting through city streets or cruising over gravel trails, the Heybike Alpha offers premium performance at a mid-range price.
Mid-Drive Motor, Maximum Value
The Alpha is Heybike’s first model to feature its in-house Galaxy eDrive system, boasting a 500W Mivice mid-drive motor paired with a 680Wh battery. This setup delivers a fluid, pedal-assist riding experience that mimics a traditional bike, without the jerky acceleration often found in hub motor e-bikes.
Pedal assist is responsive and powerful—thanks to 105 Nm of torque—and the addition of a Shimano 8-gear shifter allows you to fine-tune your power on different terrains, saving battery life in the process. Top speeds? 20 mph on throttle only, or up to 28 mph while pedaling.
Built for Real-World Riding
- Fat 26×4″ tires and hydraulic front fork suspension tackle potholes, tree roots, and sidewalks with ease.
- With a 400-lb payload capacity, it doubles as a cargo bike—ideal for grocery runs or delivery work.
- A rear rack comes standard, and the aluminum alloy frame keeps the weight manageable at 71 lbs.
Range That Goes the Distance
The UL-certified battery promises up to 60 miles per charge, and potentially more thanks to regenerative braking. One test ride covered 22 miles of hills without even dipping below 100% battery—a testament to the efficiency of Heybike’s system.
Downsides to Consider
- Setup can be tricky, with vague instructions and some trial-and-error required.
- Battery cover issues were frustrating, popping loose mid-ride until secured with tape.
- The horn is aggressively loud—effective, but not exactly pleasant.
- The Heybike app is limited, unable to turn on the bike or offer live tracking or theft protection.
- Color options are minimal: white for step-through, black for step-over.
The Heybike Alpha stands out as one of the smoothest mid-drive e-bikes in its price range. While there are a few build and usability quirks, its comfort, power, and value make it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a capable all-terrain ride. If you’re a bit handy—or don’t mind a trip to the local bike shop—this could be your new favorite way to get around.
Source: (Techcrunch)
