The Shocking Truth About the Engwe P20: A Folding E-Bike That’s More About Marketing Than Performance
At first glance, the Engwe P20 seems like a dream come true: a folding e-bike that’s affordable, looks great, and promises a seamless riding experience. But scratch beneath the surface, and you’ll find a bike that’s more about marketing hype than actual performance.
Let’s start with the price: €1,099 (about $1,190). That’s a lot of money for a bike that’s essentially a hastily assembled collection of parts. And don’t even get me started on the "10-second folding time." I mean, come on, it’s not like it’s a magic trick or something. The bike takes twice as long to fold as promised, and the process is a bit of a hassle.
But the real problem with the P20 is its performance. The torque sensor is poorly tuned, making it difficult to get the bike moving from a standstill. And once you’re underway, the pedal assist is uneven and often feels like it’s fighting against you. It’s like the bike is saying, "Hey, I’m an e-bike, but I’m not actually going to help you much."
And don’t even get me started on the brakes. They’re unbranded, which is a red flag right there. But even if they were from a reputable manufacturer, they’re still subpar. The bike stops okay, but it’s not exactly confidence-inspiring.
But hey, at least the bike looks good, right? I mean, it’s got a sleek design and a cool color scheme. And the integrated fenders and rear rack are a nice touch. But let’s be real, aesthetics only go so far. If the bike doesn’t perform, what’s the point?
And then there’s the app. Or rather, the lack thereof. There’s no app to speak of, which is a major drawback for anyone who wants to customize their ride or track their progress. It’s like Engwe forgot that people actually use their phones to control their e-bikes.
So, is the Engwe P20 worth it? Honestly, I’d say no. It’s a bike that’s more about marketing than performance, and it shows. If you’re in the market for a folding e-bike, I’d recommend looking elsewhere.
