QuietKat Rubicon Review
- Price: $5249
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: 26″ x 4.8″
- Battery: 1008Wh
- Travel: 150mm rear, 140mm front
What We Like:
- Powerful and terrain-flexible heavy-duty machine.
- Suitable for users who enjoy exploring deeper and more challenging terrains.
- Impressive 160Nm of torque, allowing for peak power output of over 1500W.
What We Don’t Like:
- It’s not an affordable option.
- It feels heavy when not using electric assistance.
Rating: (4.81/5)
The QuietKat Rubicon has an attractive appearance and is designed to showcase skills in steep terrains. It’s a companion built to take you deep into remote areas and back again. Moreover, it comes equipped with aggressive tires and ample connection points.
Below, we’ll analyze the riding experience, key features, components, and specifications of the QuietKat Rubicon. In the latter part of this article, we’ll also compare it to several top bike models. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
Seeing it, I realized just how lightweight the previous Propella MINI was, but this comparison is a joke because they are completely different types of bikes. The QuietKat Rubicon is produced by QuietKat, a brand focused on electric bikes, distinct from bike brands like Trek and Specialized. Their bikes often feature powerful electric assist systems, and the Rubicon is no exception. For this, I prepared to go to Moab, Utah, booked accommodation nearby through IHG, and reached out to my friend (as he was recently interested in this bike).
Slickrock Bike Trail
Upon arriving at the accommodation and getting refreshed, we planned for the ride test the next day.
Here, it’s a typical off-road trail with a reddish surface that’s quite smooth. Early the next morning, my friend and I packed up the QuietKat Rubicon and headed to the Slickrock Bike Trail.
Initially, I started climbing the steep slopes of Slickrock without electric assistance, just to see how it felt. But it was really difficult to pedal; the bike was simply too heavy. Additionally, I hadn’t locked the RockShox Monarch RL front fork for suspension, which added to the challenge. I gave up because it was wasting my energy. When I started the torque sensor electric assist system via the remote, it was truly surprising. It effortlessly carried me up the hill, and I could easily adjust the intensity of the electric assistance, switching modes seamlessly as the slope changed.
It’s worth noting that the fat tires generate some rolling resistance. Despite having 26″ x 4.8″ All-Terrain tires, on such a smooth section, the wide tires provide better stability, and the unique tread pattern design enhances grip.
Yes, the uphill performance with electric assistance was truly impressive.
Downhill
At the top of the hill, we entered a technical downhill section. I must say that the TEKTRO 4-piston Hydraulic Disc brakes equipped on the QuietKat Rubicon provided excellent and reliable braking performance during this ride. Even on this smooth rocky surface, I could precisely control the speed and descend steadily with the brakes.
Due to the significant elevation changes on this route, my friend and I faced substantial bumps and vibrations while riding the QuietKat Rubicon. However, it’s important to note that this bike not only has 4.8″ wide tires but also comes with a KKE Inverted Air Fork with 140mm of travel and a RockShox Monarch RL rear shock with 150mm of travel. This made me quite comfortable on this bumpy rocky terrain, allowing me to focus more on the natural scenery.
For those who have been here before, you’ll know there are undulating sections on the Slickrock trail. Faced with such terrain, I wanted to simulate what it would feel like riding a traditional bike (I hadn’t given up after the initial attempt). However, I didn’t completely turn off the electric assistance; I chose the Eco mode, which noticeably reduces the electric assistance. Still, I found the electrical assistance extremely helpful even after going through this section. Additionally, thanks to its chassis design and tire adaptability, it remained quite stable on this changing and irregular terrain.
Trailer Riding
Whether climbing steep slopes or tackling rugged rocky surfaces, the Rubicon displayed confidence and stability.
After concluding our ride here, the next day, we attached a trailer to the QuietKat Rubicon. My friend and I planned to use it for fishing, which worked out perfectly! We had a great catch due to the good weather. Even with a trailer attached to the rear, the Rubicon’s overall operation remained smooth and agile, and its ample space allowed us to carry more items.
In conclusion, the versatility and adaptability of this electric bike left me impressed with its performance. I believe it’s an excellent choice for outdoor adventurers and off-road enthusiasts. If I had to voice a complaint about it, I’d say its weight can be a bit challenging for packing.
Specifications
Despite its aggressive appearance, the aluminum frame and fully internal cable routing give it a reliable and clean look. The overall green paint job makes it even more appealing for exploration. Moreover, the trailer attachment option adds great convenience.
Despite its bulky appearance, with the support of the Bafang Ultra-Drive 1000-watt motor, it can easily take you through the wilderness. Furthermore, the 160Nm of torque makes for quicker starts and easier handling of larger loads.
Its geometry allows you to maintain a comfortable upright posture. The comfortable saddle and easy-to-control flat handlebar also make riding more accessible.
Additionally, its fat tires allow for more freedom to traverse desert terrain, and it can handle snow conditions smoothly and safely.
Moreover, the customizable LED electronic display screen is very clear, allowing you to see the data you need.
Video
What do we like about it?
- Impressive battery range for extended exploration.
- Sturdy and durable frame with a lifetime warranty.
- 300 lbs load capacity for carrying fishing gear to remote locations.
- Powerful four-piston braking system.
- Stable and capable fat tires for handling more rugged terrain.
What don’t we like about it?
- Heavyweight, not easy to pack.
FAQ
- How much does this bike weigh?
It weighs 75 Ibs.
- What brand of motor does Rubicon QuietKat use?
The QuietKat Rubicon I tested is equipped with a Bafang Ultra-Drive motor.
- What size options are available for this bike?
Size chart:
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 4’9″ – 5’7″ | SM |
| 5’5″ – 6’1″ | MD |
| 5’11” – 7’2″ | LG |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Alloy | 150mm Travel | Internal Cable RoutingColor: Military Green |
| Fork | 200mm x 57mm RockShox Monarch RL | 140mm KKE Inverted Air Fork |
Groupset
| Brakes | TEKTRO 4-Piston Hydraulic Disc |
Wheels
| Tires | 26″ x 4.8″ All-Terrain |
Electric Components
| Motor | Ultra-Drive 1000W |
| Battery | 21AH/48V | 1008Wh |
| Remote | Customizable LED |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Travel | Battery |
| QuietKat Jeep | Click View | 26″ x 4.8″ | 1 x 9 | Alloy | 150mm front | 1000W |
| Himiway COBRA PRO | Click View | 26″ x 4.8″ | 1 x 10 | Aluminum | 190mm rear, 100mm front | 696Wh |
QuietKat Jeep vs. QuietKat Rubicon
The QuietKat Jeep also has a new 2024 model, priced $250 cheaper than the QuietKat Rubicon. However, the 2022 QuietKat Jeep was $1,550 more expensive than the QuietKat Rubicon. The so-called version of the QuietKat Jeep hasn’t seen many changes, mostly adjustments to the suspension system. But with the current price drop, let’s explore it further.
First, in terms of weight, when compared to the QuietKat Rubicon, the Jeep is 5 lbs lighter. However, it has a smaller battery capacity of 312Wh. So, if you want to go to more remote places, the QuietKat Rubicon is undoubtedly more suitable.
Secondly, the front and rear travel distances for these two bikes are the same, with no differences. The braking systems also both use TEKTRO 4-Piston Hydraulic Discs, and even the tires are identical. So, if you don’t need to travel to more distant locations, you can save some money by opting for the QuietKat Jeep. Of course, as mentioned earlier, if you want a longer battery range, you can also consider the QuietKat Rubicon.
Himiway COBRA PRO vs. QuietKat Rubicon
The Himiway COBRA PRO caught my attention with its reflective stripes on the tires. So, when riding in the evening, the Himiway COBRA PRO will be easier to notice than the QuietKat Rubicon.
However, upon seeing the Himiway COBRA PRO, I felt that the QuietKat Rubicon isn’t as heavy as I thought. The Himiway COBRA PRO weighs a whopping 88 lbs, which was unexpected for me. Its exterior design successfully “fooled” me.
It’s worth mentioning that the Himiway COBRA PRO uses a 48V 20Ah Samsung/LG lithium battery, while the QuietKat Rubicon has a slightly higher battery capacity of 21Ah. You should know that higher voltage and capacity typically provide more energy storage, allowing the electric bike to go further.
In terms of brakes, the Himiway COBRA PRO uses Tektro 180mm hydraulic brakes, while the QuietKat Rubicon uses TEKTRO 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes. In my experience, I would prefer using the QuietKat Rubicon with TEKTRO 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes.
However, if you like the design and price of the Himiway COBRA PRO, you can certainly give it a try since it also has a 1000W motor.
But if you want to try something lighter, the QuietKat Rubicon won’t disappoint.
Learn More: Is Himiway ESCAPE PRO Worth Buying?-[Himiway ESCAPE PRO Review]
Summary
This is our review of the QuietKat Rubicon. It’s an outstanding full-suspension fat-tire bike that has earned a high rating of 4.81. If you’d like to learn more about bicycles, feel free to explore our other reviews.
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