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Electric bikes have enjoyed a major breakthrough over the past couple of years, with around 40 million e-bikes sold around the world in 2023.
We’ve been testing out e-bikes in all shapes and sizes, but recently we got to grips with our first electric mountain bike, the Lankeleisi RV800 Plus.
Below, we’ll run through our experience with this eye-catching bike.
Lankeleisi RV800 Plus Review
- Range
- Terrain
- Style
- Value
- Quality
Summary
The Lankeleisi RV800 Plus, an electric mountain bike, stands out with its sleek, sturdy design and a powerful Bafang 750W motor, peaking at 1130W. Its 48V20ah Samsung lithium battery offers decent range of up to 120km (if using minimal assistance). It features a lightweight aluminum frame, Kenda fat tires for smooth rides, a smart LCD meter, and hydraulic disc brakes. Ideal for off-road and urban use, it includes removable mudguards, weighing 35.5kg, combining functionality, aesthetics, and versatility for an enhanced riding experience.
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Great design. Looks awesome.
- Capable on all terrains.
Cons
- No rear light as standard
- Quite heavy (35.5kg)
Lankeleisi RV800 Electric Mountain Bike
While Discerning Cyclist has tried out many fat electric bikes before, this was our first go on a dedicated mountain e-bike and the first thing you’ll notice about the RV800 is that it is a thing of real beauty.
It is an inevitably chunky e-bike, but it’s been designed in a way that still looks sleek and streamlined, with the battery built into the bottom frame. It also comes in some bright colours and I couldn’t resist the Discerning Cyclist-esque orange.
Packed with Power
At the core of the RV800 Plus is the Bafang 750W (Peak 1130W) motor, potentially delivering impressive acceleration and a top speed of 52 km/h, although this is limited to 25km/h in EU countries and 25mph in the US.
This power is perfectly suited for challenging terrains, ensuring that steep hills and rugged paths are conquered with ease. The star gear design in the motor amplifies torque and enhances energy efficiency, making every ride exhilarating yet efficient
Battery Life
Equipped with a 48V20ah Samsung lithium battery, the RV800 Plus promises an exceptional range. In pure electric mode, Lankeleise claims to offer 60-70 kilometers, while the assisted mode extends this to a staggering 120-150 kilometers.
But if you’re flying around with full power, you can expect to get about 60% of this range – about 35 to 40km.
Rugged Yet Refined
The RV800 Plus doesn’t just perform well; it looks good doing it. The frame is crafted from lightweight aluminum alloy, offering both strength and agility.
Its large, double shoulder oil spring suspension fork, coupled with 26*4.0 Kenda fat tires, ensures a smooth ride across varied terrains, from city streets to muddy trails.
The bike’s design balances rugged functionality with sleek aesthetics, making it a head-turner wherever it goes
User-Friendly Features
A standout feature is the color smart LCD meter, which offers a wealth of information at a glance, from gear settings to power output. This IP64 waterproof and dustproof meter enhances the RV800 Plus’s user experience, keeping riders informed and in control.
The bike also boasts hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power, a Shimano 7-speed gear system for smooth transitions, and a comfortable sports seat, making long rides more enjoyable
The RV800 also has a nice chunky and bright front light which can be controlled from the user dashboard, although sadly no rear light is included.
Not Just for the Trails
While the RV800 Plus excels in off-road conditions, its versatility makes it an excellent choice for daily commutes or leisurely weekend rides. The bike’s robust construction and powerful motor make it capable of handling urban environments with the same ease as mountain trails.
Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring backcountry roads, the RV800 Plus adapts seamlessly to your needs. Lankeleisi also provide removable mudguards with the bike which is a most welcome addition and one that should come with every bike in my opinion.
Lankeleisi RV800 Plus Review
The Lankeleisi RV800 Plus is a great deal of fun.
Its combination of power, range, and design makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to upgrade their riding experience. While it might be on the heavier side, weighing in at 35.5kg, the trade-off is a bike that’s built to last and perform.
If you’re in the market for an e-bike that can handle both urban commutes and rugged trails with equal aplomb, the RV800 Plus is certainly worth considering. It’s a bike that promises to transform your daily rides into extraordinary journeys.
Oh, and it looks really cool.