The eMoto Ecco 2.5 Review

 (c)Ken Kalb

The first thing I notice about the Ecco 2.5 electric bike from eMoto is the large-diameter main tube of the sexy S-curve frame, finished in a glossy cobalt blue (it’s also available in flash silver). I take an immediate liking to the bike as its intelligent design is very similar to the Hebb Step-Thru model: A removable 37 Volt 10 Amp battery correctly located behind the seat tube, a brushless single-geared 350 Watt front-wheel motor, and an entry- level Shimano Nexus Inner 7-speed transmission. It’s almost like a slightly lighter-duty, economy-minded cousin of the Hebb ElectroGlide. Kind of like Toyota’s Scion compared to a Lexus.

One big difference is the VPAC -- or Variable Pedal Assist Control -- which is the Ecco’s basic mode of power operation, along with a thumb-throttle. You just pedal and go, as each pedal stroke is matched with a whoosh of power boost as you glide through the Nexus gears. It reminds me of one of those new steptronic automatic transmissions, bicycle-style. Though I have primarily been a proponent of Power-on-Demand using a throttle control, I must admit this system is very intuitive and simple -- besides increasing the bike’s range by economizing on battery power.  The more I ride it, the more I like it. And there’s always the throttle, as well as the option to just ride without power as an ordinary bicycle. I found myself using the throttle mostly for starts up to 3 or 4 MPH, then pedaling and letting the automatic boost of my pedal strokes accelerate me smoothly up to it’s top speed of 16 MPH. It is not as powerful or fast as the Hebb ElectroGlide, but it performs well. It engages you in the propulsion process as a true hybrid of human and electric power, rather than just riding an electric motorcycle.

The ergonomics on the bike are just right, supporting a fully upright riding position, with just the right handlebar bend. I might choose a more premium saddle for longer rides, though this choice is very personal. The Ergo handlebar grips are quite comfortable, with the grip shift on the right, and throttle and battery gauge on the left. Electronic connections are fully wrapped and neatly routed through the frame. A quick release behind the seat pops the saddle forward for easy battery removal if you wish to charge off-board. The battery is locked into place by the on/off key for security. The Ecco is safety-minded with 3 brakes – a front and rear handbrake as well as a coaster brake. Solid double-wall rims with 13-gauge spokes are fitted with  all-surface Kenda tires with “self-sealing” tubes. It is well outfitted with fenders, rack, battery gauge, and a bell.

First Ride:

I rode it through the beach area of Santa Barbara cutting through a head wind with ease. I ascended the hills overlooking Butterfly Beach maintaining my speed while passing a few slower riders on conventional bikes. I was very impressed with its smooth, light and balanced feel. With easy to moderate pedaling, I proceeded to climb through the Montecito foothills with relative ease. My round trip was 16 miles, after which I still had 3 of the 4 indicator lights showing on the battery gauge. Though I did not do a full battery rundown, my impression is that it may indeed live up to the manufacturer’s 30-mile range, particular on the low setting. It may not be a speed demon, but the bike is really fun to ride and has adequate power, which translates into excellent range. The brakes were solid and secure, and having a coaster brake as well as handbrakes gave it a bit of a retro feel.

It is a delightful bike which I have been looking forward to riding again and again. I really like the design – motor in the front – internal gears in the rear – and battery positioned at the center of gravity. I have even got several unsolicited “beautiful bike” comments from onlookers during my in-town commutes. I rode every available electric bike at the 2010 Interbike Show, and the eMoto 2.5 was my pick of the litter at it’s price point. For an entry level electric bicycle, this is a good choice.

The entire evolution of bicycles has really been about one principle goal: to make a bike that pedals easier. There are those purists who may say the electric bike is cheating. Then again, I don’t think anyone is keeping score.

500 Mile Review:

It seems to be holding up pretty well. My impression is that this is a good bike for lighter riders, say under 175 pounds. I wanted the bike to go a little faster, but I am also spoiled because I ride a Hebb which easily goes 20 mph without spinning the pedals.

Ken Kalb has been involved with bicycles since he was a child. He helped start Planet Repair, a free recycle Bicycle Shop in Isla Vista in the 70’s, been a triathalon champion and avid tourer, and been involved with Electric Bicycles since the mid-90’s. He has sold and serviced many product entries during their entire  evolution, and consulted on the design and development of several eBikes. He is the owner of Electric Star Power Bicycles, www.electricstar.org.