👋🏻 We help our readers find the best quality e-bikes and gear to fit their needs. We strive to physically test the products that we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.
The e-bike revolution is gaining momentum, but with so many options available, finding the right balance between quality and affordability can be challenging. Enter the Tenways CGO800S, an excellent e-bike from the Netherlands that hits the sweet spot with a price tag of under $2,000. In this review, I’ll share my insights and honest opinions, breaking down what makes the CGO800S a top contender and where it might fall short.
Key e-bike details
Basics
- Base Price: $1,999
- Class: 1
- Max Speed: 20 mph
- Estimated Range: Max 53 miles
- Weight: 51 lbs
Motor & Electronics
- Motor: Mivice M080 350 watt rear hub motor
- Torque: 40 Nm
- Motor location: Rear hub
- Battery: 36V, 10.4Ah Lithium-ion Battery
- PAS Sensor: Torque
- Throttle: No
- Display: Stem integrated Smart LCD Display
Components
- Brakes: Tektro hydraulic disc brakes
- Drivetrain: Single speed Gates Carbon Belt
- Belt Drive: Yes
- Tires: CST Zeppelin 28” x 2”
Misc
- Recommended Rider Height: 5’1″ to 6’3″
- Payload Capacity: 264 lbs
What we like about it
- Gates Carbon belt drive: A truly outstanding feature, this belt drive ensures a silky smooth pedaling experience and surpasses chain drives in terms of durability. It’s a fantastic upgrade that’s typically found in higher-end e-bikes, making it quite a steal for under $2,000.
- Torque sensor: The inclusion of a torque sensor allows for fine-tuned control of the motor’s power and more natural riding experience.
- Battery range: Offering up to 53 miles of range, it’s suitable for most daily commuting needs.
- Hydraulic disc brakes: For the safety-conscious rider, the hydraulic disc brakes deliver enhanced performance and safety, providing a peace of mind on your journeys.
- Adaptable step-thru frame: With recommendations for riders ranging from 5’1″ to 6’3″ and a relatively light weight of 51 lbs, this e-bike caters to a wide variety of rider heights and strengths.
- Rear turn flashing indicators: A unique feature, these turn indicators add a touch of flair and safety, letting you signal your turns with confidence, though I’m not sure if any motorists or cyclists behind you would notice them.
- Excellent value for money: CGO800S combines a lot of features at a great price point making it our top pick for e-bikes less than $2,000.
Where it falls short
- Not ideal for hilly terrain: While it excels in flat roads and urban environments, the single-speed drivetrain and 350-watt motor with 40 Nm of torque might not be enough for those who frequently commute through hilly areas, especially if you weigh more than 200 lbs.
- Inadequate mudguards: A minor hiccup in an otherwise stellar bike, some riders have reported that the mudguards don’t provide adequate protection against the splashes, since my test ride was during a sunny day I couldn’t test this one out. You could add an extender flap to the front.
In-depth review
The first thing that caught my attention when it came to Tenways’s CGO800S was the Gates Carbon belt drive. This is a feature that’s hard to come by in this price range, and it’s something I really like about the CGO800S. The belt drive provides a smooth pedaling experience and greater durability than a chain drive. Earlier this year I switched from a chain drive to a belt drive on my primary e-bike and have been very happy with the upgrade. Normally reserved for higher end e-bikes it’s nice to see that Tenways has added it to the CGO800S.
Another thing I like is that the CGO800S is equipped with a torque sensor instead of the more common cadence sensor in this price range. This subtle change may not seem like much, but on the road it will translate to a much more natural riding experience. The fine-tuned control a torque sensor offers over the motor’s power makes your ride much more responsive to how much force you apply to the pedals.
The battery range on this e-bike is another major plus. Offering up to 53 miles of range, it’s more than adequate for daily commutes and occasional longer rides. The freedom to ride without constantly checking the battery gauge adds to the overall enjoyment.
The hydraulic disc brakes on the CGO800S are top-notch. They provide a reassuring bite and dependable stopping power. Whether you’re riding in traffic or navigating rainy roads, these brakes will help you stop quickly.
The CGO800S step-thru frame stands out for its adaptability to a wide range of rider heights. Its versatile design accommodates riders from 5’1″ to 6’3″. Moreover, this bike weighs only 51 lbs, which gives it an edge over other options in terms of ease of use and maneuverability. This makes it an ideal choice for riders who value convenience and practicality in their e-biking experience.
One feature that you don’t see on many e-bikes is the rear turn flashing indicators. While they add a touch of flair and are a nod to safety, I must admit I’m a bit skeptical about how noticeable they are to motorists and other cyclists. Nevertheless, they remain a novel addition that adds to the e-bike’s appeal.
Finally, the value for money offered by the CGO800S is hard to overlook. Combining these features at such a great price point, it’s clear why this e-bike is our top pick for e-bikes less than $2,000.
On the flip side, the CGO800S does have a couple of shortcomings. The most glaring is its performance on hilly terrains. If you’re in a region with significant inclines and weigh more than 200 lbs, the single-speed drivetrain and 350-watt motor with only 40 Nm of torque will probably leave you wanting more. This e-bike thrives on flat roads and struggles on the hills.
Another minor gripe comes with the mudguards. While my test ride was on a sunny day, other riders have reported inadequacies in protecting against the elements. Adding an extender flap to the front might be a necessary customization if you frequently ride in muddy or rainy conditions.
All in all the Tenways CGO800S has emerged as a solid e-bike for less than $2,000. With its impressive features like the Gate sCarbon belt drive, torque sensor, excellent battery range, and adaptable frame design, it’s a highly recommended option, particularly for urban commuters. While it may falter on hilly terrains the overall package is compelling. This e-bike beautifully marries quality with affordability.
Gallery
