Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X Cruiser E-Bike Review
- Price: $2399
- Frame: 6061 Aluminum Alloy Step-Thru Frame
- Tires: 20″ X 4.0″
- Gear: 1 x 7
- Battery: 960Wh (UL-Recognized)
What We Like About It:
- Powerful battery with enough range to meet your daily riding needs.
- Fun Banana Seat For Two, allowing you to ride with your wife or girlfriend.
What We Don’t Like About It:
- Some people might prefer it to be larger, as it doesn’t seem to be able to withstand two heavy riders.
- It’s not lightweight.
Rating: (4.81/5)
We are currently planning a feature on electric bicycles, and coincidentally, the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X has come into our view due to its unique visual appeal.
The Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X electric bicycle stands out in terms of design compared to most modern electric bikes. Drawing inspiration from the retro look of the 1970s, it doesn’t just carry that heritage, but also blends in modern elements, giving it a distinct allure. To gain a comprehensive understanding, we took it for a test ride.
In the following sections, we’ll analyze the riding experience, key features, components, and specifications of the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X Cruiser E-Bike. Towards the end of the review, we’ll also make a comparison with a few top bicycle models. If you’re interested in learning more about bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
Honestly, upon receiving the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X, its design truly captivated me, but its weight was heavier than I had imagined. This initial impression left me somewhat unsatisfied. However, after the test ride, I must admit that it is a capable, even outstanding, electric cruiser bike.
Urban Riding
It’s worth noting that this type of electric bike finds more application in urban environments, making its urban cruising ability a key aspect for us. As I hit the city streets, it’s safe to say that the SOLETAN M-66X caught the attention of many passersby, which brought a smile to my face.
Once I started riding the SOLETAN M-66X and engaged its Bafang 48V×750W powerful rear motor, I was pleasantly surprised. The anticipated heaviness never materialized; the motor’s assistance propelled me through the crowd with ease. With a torque of up to 80Nm, starting at traffic lights became swift and agile.
In urban riding, we can’t overlook its braking performance. Maintaining constant focus is challenging, so braking is crucial, especially considering the relatively higher speeds of electric bicycles.
However, the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X is equipped with excellent Tektro mechanical disc brakes. I could easily control my speed while cornering using the brake levers. The rubber-covered edges of the brake levers provided a comfortable grip.
A notable feature is the motor inhibitor function on the brake levers, which automatically reduces or cuts off electric assistance during urgent braking, enhancing safety and stability during braking maneuvers.
Gravel Path Adventure
As the cityscape gradually faded away, I found myself on the surrounding gravel paths. The road surfaces here weren’t as smooth as city streets; they were undulated with ups and downs. However, thanks to the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X’s application of the front Addshox spring suspension fork and rear suspension, I didn’t experience any jarring effects on surfaces like these. Moreover, the wide 20″ x 4.0″ Durable Fat Tires provided better traction around corners. Surprisingly, the added weight during these moments made the entire ride feel more stable.
What’s more, facing uphill sections, I could distinctly feel its power. With its equipped Bafang 48V*750W rear motor and the EB 2.0 battery, it offered robust assistance, making uphill climbs easy for me. Additionally, even after transitioning from the city to these paths, the EB 2.0 Multi-Function LCD Display still showed about a third of the battery capacity remaining. Its battery endurance, as advertised, was indeed reliable.
In conclusion, this test ride completely overturned my initial impression. Whether it’s about comfort or performance, it surprised me in all aspects. I was even reluctant to end the ride. The Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X can undoubtedly be hailed as an excellent electric urban cruiser bike, and I would willingly open my wallet for it without hesitation.
Specifications
The Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X Cruiser E-Bike features a 6061 Aluminum Alloy Step-Thru Frame. This makes it easy to mount and the wooden footrests integrated into the frame provide a comfortable resting spot for your feet during long rides.
During the ride, we mentioned its Addshox suspension fork with 80mm of travel, which effectively dampens vibrations on bumpy single-track paths. However, let’s not overlook the suspension at the rear of the SOLETAN M-66X, which enhances our riding comfort further.
Furthermore, the control cables of the SOLETAN M-66X aren’t all exposed, contributing to a clean overall appearance. However, I find the control cables at the front somewhat intricate; I would be concerned about tree branches catching onto them while riding through forest paths. After all, I’m not a rider who prefers the ordinary routes.
More Details
Of course, the pleasantly surprising details of the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X don’t stop here. Its EB 2.0 Multi-Function LCD Display provides comprehensive information and allows adjustments to the assist mode based on terrain changes. For riders who frequently switch between different routes, this is a crucial performance feature. Additionally, it integrates turn signal functions, aiding in conveying your intentions to others and further enhancing safety during rides, reducing traffic risks.
Moreover, its Banana Seat For Two offers an extended seating area, accommodating your wife or child. If you’re riding alone, you’ll have more space to adjust your sitting position and find the most comfortable spot.
There are many more detailed aspects I won’t delve into here. If you’re interested, I suggest giving it a try.
Video
What do we like about it?
- Powerful battery with excellent endurance. Plus the UL-Certification ensures a safer ride.
- Rear-mounted geared Integrated Wheel Hub Brushless Motor with up to 80Nm of torque, making uphill climbs and quick starts easier.
- The combination of the front Addshox shock-absorbing fork and rear suspension offers a comfortable ride even on bumpy, gravel-laden rural paths.
- Comfortable Banana Seat For Two, perfect for long rides.
- In order to satisfy more riders, Addmotor offers the HEROTAN M-65X step-over cruiser which is a complementary pair to the SOLETAN M-66X.
What don’t we like about it?
- Some people might prefer it to be larger, as it doesn’t seem to be able to withstand two heavy riders.
- It’s not lightweight.
- I’m not entirely satisfied with the arrangement of control cables at the front.
FAQ About Addmotor SOLETAN
- What is the top speed of this bike?
Its top speed is set at 20 miles per hour.
- How much does this bike weigh?
Its weight, excluding the battery, is 83.8 pounds.
- What height range is this bike suitable for?
It’s suitable for riders with a height range of 5’2″ to 6’2″, with a maximum load capacity of 300 pounds.
Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X Cruiser E-Bike Specs
Electronics
| Motor |
| Bafang 48V*750W Rear Brushless Gear Motor. |
| Battery |
| Samsung Cells, Addmotor 48V*20AH Battery Pack (UL-Recognized), 8-10 Hours Fully Charged Time, Rated For 1000-1500 Cycles |
| Display |
| Addmotor EB 2.0 Multiple Function LCD Display (Increase to 7 PAS) |
| Controller |
| Addmotor EB 2.0 25A Controller, Upgraded to A Chip Type |
| Throttle. |
| Variable Speed Control – 1/2 Twist Throttle With Power-Cut Switch |
| Headlight |
| Supplies a brightness of 40 lumens, a visible distance of 200m, and a 180° side view. |
| Taillight |
| UL certificate, With driving light, left and right turn signals, danger light, flashlight, brake light |
| Charger |
| 48V*2.0Ah 5 Pins US Standard DC Charger, 7-shaped Head Design |
| Pedal Assist |
| Intelligent 7 Levels Pedal Assist, Speed Sensor (7 PAS) |
| Charger Port |
| 5 Pins With Auto Magnetic Suction Customized Snap Lock |
| Range |
| Up to 105 Miles Per Charge with PAS 1 (Estimate Miles) |
| Wiring |
| Water-Resistant Connectors and Wiring Water-Resistant Connectors and Wiring |
Components
| Frame |
| 6061 Aluminum Alloy Step-Thru Frame |
| Front Fork |
| Addshox Spring Suspension Fork, Triple Clamp, 32.5mm Steel Stanchions, 80 mm Travel, Preload Adjust, Boost 135 mm Hub Spacing, 9 mm Skewer with Bolts |
| Brake Rotors |
| Tektro Aries Mechanical Disc with 180 mm Rotors, Tektro Four-Finger Levers with Rubberized Edge and Motor Inhibitors |
| Gearing |
| 7 Speed 1×7 Shimano Altus Derailleur, Shimano MF-TZ500-7 Cassette 14-28 Tooth |
| Derailleur |
| Shimano 7 Speeds / ALTUS M310 |
| Cranks |
| Ounce, Alloy, 170 mm Length, 42 Tooth Chainring with Double-Sided Alloy Chain Guard |
| Pedals |
| Wellgo Alloy Platform with Pins |
| Headset |
| Neco, Threadless Internal Cups, Straight 1-1/8″ |
| Stem |
| Promax, Alloy, Adjustable Angle (-10º to 100º), Alloy, 110 mm Length, Four 10 mm Spacers |
| Grips |
| Ergonomic, Stitched Faux Leather, Black |
| Saddle |
| Banana Seat (23″ x 8.5″), Faux Leather, Black |
| Rims |
| Cast Alloy, Double Walled |
| Brake |
| Tektro Aries Mechanical Disc with 180mm Rotors, Four-Finger Levers with Rubberized Edge, Motor Inhibitors, and Bell on Left |
| Brake Disc |
| 180MM |
| Tires |
| Kenda GIGAS Puncture-resistant 20″ X 4.0″ Inches Durable Tires |
| Handlebar |
| Adjustable U Style Curved Handlebar, Adjust The Angle and Height |
| Front Wheel |
| Quick Release |
| Spokes |
| 12-Gauge High-Strength Spokes |
| Fenders |
| Aluminum, Front Fender and Rear Fender Included |
| Horn |
| Included Electric Horn, 108 Maximum Decibel, 492 Foot away transmitted |
| Shifter |
| SHIMANO Right Thumb Shifter 7-Speed, SIS Index System |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Battery | Travel |
| Rad Power Bikes RadCity 5 Plus High-Step | Click View | 27.5″ x 2.0″ | 1 × 7 | Aluminum | 672Wh | 50mm front |
| Himiway ESCAPE PRO | Click View | 20″ x 4″ | 1 × 7 | Aluminum | 750Wh | / |
| QuietKat Villager | Click View | 26″ x 3″ | / | Aluminum | 696Wh | 100mm front |
| Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X Cruiser | Click view | 20″ x 4″ | 1 × 7 | Aluminum | 960Wh | 80mm front |
2023 Rad Power Bikes RadCity 5 Plus High-Step vs. Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X
You can easily see that there’s a significant difference between the 2023 Rad Power Bikes RadCity 5 Plus High-Step and the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X. The Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X has a more refined and compact build, which not only applies to its performance but also extends to its thoughtful details.
However, it’s worth mentioning that the Rad Power Bikes RadCity 5 Plus High-Step is somewhat lighter, weighing only 64 pounds. Additionally, its wheel diameter (650b) is larger, contributing to better rolling efficiency.
Yet, if you pay attention to battery capacity, you’ll notice that the Rad Power Bikes RadCity 5 Plus High-Step has a battery capacity of only 672Wh. In contrast, the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X boasts a higher battery capacity of 960Wh. So, if you’re looking for more battery capacity, it might be a good idea to give the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X a try.
Of course, if you’re aiming for a more lightweight option with larger tires, you can also consider trying out the Rad Power Bikes RadCity 5 Plus High-Step.
2023 Himiway ESCAPE PRO vs. Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X
When comparing these two electric bicycles, it’s easy to notice that their tire sizes are the same. Moreover, their frame designs are similar to the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X, making it easy for everyone to get on and off comfortably.
Furthermore, both of them feature Kenda fat tires, but in terms of price, the Himiway ESCAPE PRO is $600 cheaper. There’s a reason for the price difference; even though both the Himiway ESCAPE PRO and the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X have 80Nm of torque, the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X boasts a higher battery capacity (960Wh), allowing you to travel longer distances. Additionally, I find the Banana Seat on the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X comfortable for both single riders and two riders. While the Himiway ESCAPE PRO can also accommodate a passenger with a rear rack, it seems less comfortable.
So, if you often plan to ride with friends, I would recommend the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X more. Of course, if budget is a consideration, the Himiway ESCAPE PRO can also be a viable option for you.
Learn More: Is Himiway ESCAPE PRO Worth Buying?-[Himiway ESCAPE PRO Review]
2023 QuietKat Villager vs. Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X
The 2023 QuietKat Villager is more expensive than the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X. However, based on my personal subjective opinion, I prefer the refined and agile Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X.
Nevertheless, I must admit that the QuietKat Villager’s Tektro 350 2-piston Hydraulic brakes do offer a better braking feel. However, it’s undeniable that the Tektro Aries Mechanical Disc brakes on the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X are simpler to maintain and more suitable for riding situations that might require maintenance in outdoor environments (since during rides, you never know what might happen).
Moreover, the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X not only features a suspension fork but also comes with Dual Suspension. The 20″ x 4″ fat tires make it easier to handle dirt roads, bumpy trails, and more, providing a more comfortable riding experience.
Even though the QuietKat Villager is equipped with the budget-friendly RST Coil Suspension Fork, I prefer the experience on the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X.
However, the QuietKat Villager has a larger wheel diameter (26″), and if your budget allows and you prefer larger tires, you might want to give the QuietKat Villager a try. If you value getting the most out of your investment, then I believe the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X shouldn’t be missed.
Summary
Above is our review of the Addmotor SOLETAN M-66X. It’s an excellent electric cruiser bike. Considering all aspects, we’ve given it a high score of 4.81. If you’re interested in more bicycle information, feel free to check out our other reviews.
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