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Electric Bike Company Model Y review: Getting California cruiser vibes on a US-made e-bike

by Micah Toll

That’s the impression we came away with after getting the chance to test out a beautifully-outfitted Model Y electric bike recently in California.

Model Y Specs • Motor: 1,000W peak rear geared hub motor • Top speed: 45 km/h (28 mph) • Range: Up to 80 km (50 mi) with moderate pedaling, higher range with only low pedal-assist, less with throttle-only • Battery: 48V with either 9Ah (432 Wh) or 18Ah (864 Wh) options • Weight: 26 kg (58 lb)

Model Y Specs (cont'd) • Max load: 136 kg (300 lb) • Brakes: Tektro Dorado hydraulic 2-piston disc brakes on 180 mm rotors • Extras: LCD display, LED head and tail lights, thumb throttle, front basket, heavy duty kickstand, wide cruiser saddle, option for suspension fork, platform pedals, wide balloon tires (multiple tire choices), custom paint selection, incredible array of accessories

I say “beautifully-outfitted” because that’s exactly the point: Electric Bike Company’s e-bikes are designed to be ultra customizable.

They build them locally right there in Newport Beach, California. That local touch means that riders get to customize just about every part of the bike, from paint and metal trim color to choosing from a million and one accessory options.

Electric Bike Company graciously invited us out and put us on a decked out Model Y so we could get the full experience. And wow, was it an experience!

The Model Y may be known as a women’s bike, but that’s largely marketing speak. What it really is, in my opinion, is just a great step-through cruiser e-bike that exudes cruisery good vibes.