Himiway ZEBRA Review
- MSRP: $1,999
- Frame: Aluminium
- Wheels: 26″ x 4″
- Motor: 750W brushless gear motor
- Battery：48V 20Ah Samsung/LG lithium battery
- What we like about it: A hardtail fat-tire e-bike that is super cost-effective, suitable for all-terrain, and achieves a super-long range.
- What we don’t like about it: The bias.
Rating (4.85/5)
In a way, the Himiway ZEBRA is an upgraded version of the popular CRUISER model by Himiway. With its powerful 750W brushless gear motor, it delivers a maximum torque output of 86Nm. The upgraded inner hub wheels, along with 26×4 inch Kenda K-shield tires, provide stronger traction and enhance its ability to run faster and tackle muddy terrains.
Just like regular bicycles, the Shimano 7-speed transmission system and hydraulic disc brakes are highly reliable, ensuring that users can easily and safely navigate uphill and downhill terrains.
Thanks to the detachable 960Wh Samsung lithium battery, the Himiway ZEBRA offers an impressive range of 80 miles of pedal-assisted riding or 60 kilometers of pure electric riding, making it a reliable partner for snow and mountain adventures.
In the following sections, we will analyze our riding experience, specifications, and other versions of the Himiway ZEBRA. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, please follow us.
Beach Riding
In fact, we received the Himiway ZEBRA at the end of winter, so we had very few opportunities to take it for a ride on snowy terrain. Most of the time, we took it to the beaches of Nantucket, Massachusetts, to enjoy the feeling of the sea breeze on our faces.
Comfortable Sitting Position
I absolutely love the feeling of sitting on the Himiway Zebra, as the riding position is quite upright and friendly to my lower back. I can easily grip the handlebars while maintaining smooth breathing. The Selle Royal Saddle is particularly impressive, with its wide hip design distributing my body weight evenly and providing a comfortable leather sofa-like feel. Even after long periods of sitting, my buttocks do not feel uncomfortable, thanks to the ergonomic design that is specifically intended to relieve pressure.
Of course, this also depends on the support of the Alloy Seatpost, which has a huge adjustment range, allowing me to customize the saddle height to my comfort level. I prefer to adjust the seat to the position where my legs are just barely touching the ground when fully extended, as this allows my legs to stretch out to the maximum while still being able to safely come to a stop.
Natural Pedaling Experience
Apart from the comfortable riding position, the natural pedaling experience is also worth mentioning. When the wheels roll over sand and gravel, I can easily pedal lightly, and the bike easily glides over those obstacles. Of course, to minimize punctures, I lock the suspension fork when necessary.
Unlike walking on the beach with a regular fat tire bike, the Himiway Zebra with its powerful 750W brushless gear motor and large 26″x4″ Kenda fat tires can smoothly and effortlessly crush over sand and gravel. With the flick of my fingers to shift gears, my legs no longer feel the buildup of lactic acid, but rather like I’m equipped with a motor, pedaling quickly, effortlessly, and naturally. At the same time, my back and neck do not feel sweaty but rather dry and comfortable.
As this motor supports pure electric mode, I also tried shifting to the highest gear, spreading my legs apart, closing my eyes, and enjoying the pleasure of electric assist.
Off-road Riding
As a hardtail fat tire bike, the Himiway Zebra is also a great mountain biking equipment. Therefore, I often take it to the nearby mountains to enjoy a relaxing holiday. Before setting off, I also booked accommodation through IHG Hotels & Resorts to give myself ample space to rest and prepare.
With its reliable fat tires, it has strong passability, easily crushing rocks on the road and tree roots in the mountains. Although it does not have a rear suspension, its wide tires have strong shock-absorbing ability, coupled with the alloy fork with very strong stretchability. When encountering gullies, it automatically and rhythmically raises or compresses, like doing a massage, effortlessly eliminating the vibration, which is very interesting and comfortable.
I never worry about running out of battery power, as the 960Wh Samsung/LG lithium battery has strong endurance and can support at least 60 miles of fun. Even if I forget the mileage, I can easily capture battery capacity, mileage, and other information on the central Multifunctional LCD Display.
Climbing or Descending
With the support of the 750W brushless gear motor, I am more enthusiastic about climbing. Simply by adjusting the assist level and shifting the Shimano 7-speed transmission system, I sit firmly on the bike and slowly climb up smoothly.
Occasionally, when I encounter downhill sections, I decide to save electricity and take advantage of gravity to descend as much as possible, so I adjust the assist level down. As I pedal lightly, the bike smoothly rushes down the slope. I rarely use the brakes because I enjoy the feeling of gliding down.
If I need to slow down, I simply move the brake lever, and the Tektro 180MM Hydraulic Brakes can quickly bite, reduce the speed, and stop safely and reliably.
Specification
The Himiway Zebra gives us the biggest impression of high quality and super safety.
The bike features a sturdy and durable aluminum frame that can support a maximum load of 400 pounds, making it very reliable. The close-to-upright riding posture is designed to make all riders feel comfortable.
With a powerful 750W brushless gear motor and a 48V 20Ah Samsung lithium battery, riders can enjoy up to 86Nm of torque output, and up to 25mph of pedal-assist speed, with a travel range of nearly 80 miles. Of course, with just a twist of the throttle, riders can enjoy the convenience of pure electric riding without the need for pedaling.
The reliable Kenda 26″×4″ all-terrain fat tires have excellent grip and shock absorption, making riding on sand, snow, or mountains smoother.
In addition, the simple and practical Freewheel Shimano 7-speed system, combined with the Aluminum alloy comfort grip with motor cutoff switch, helps users easily achieve stable and safe climbing or descending.
Last but not least, the integrated front and rear lights and the reflective details on the pedals ensure user safety when riding at night.
Other Versions of the Himiway
Although the Himiway Zebra has better facilities than its sibling, the Himiway Cruiser, the latter is slightly more popular.
On the one hand, this is because the Himiway Cruiser is $400 cheaper, giving more budget-conscious riders more options. On the other hand, it is because it is lighter in weight and has similar performance and riding experience.
Like the Himiway Zebra, the Himiway Cruiser also uses a 750W Upgraded Brushless Geared Hub Motor combined with a Samsung lithium battery to provide electric assistance support for the bike. The difference is that the Cruiser has slightly lower maximum torque and battery life.
In addition, in terms of the braking system, the Cruiser’s mechanical disc brakes are not as high-end as the Zebra’s Tektro 180MM Hydraulic Brakes.
However, these two points mentioned above do not affect the Himiway Cruiser’s conquerability on sand and snow. Instead, the lighter weight (72 pounds) and lower price make users feel closer to it.
Therefore, for riders who expect longer travel range and more powerful braking systems, we recommend the Himiway Zebra, but if your budget is limited, the Himiway Cruiser is also a good choice.
Follow us for more information.
Is Himiway CRUISER Worth Buying? – [Himiway CRUISER Review]
What we like about it?
- Great value for money hardtail fat e-bike.
- Comfortable loose geometry, upright riding makes the waist and shoulders more comfortable.
- The sturdy and durable aluminum frame, which can carry up to 400 pounds, supports riders of all sizes to travel with ease.
- The powerful 750W geared wheel motor supports a maximum torque output of 86Nm, and 0~5 pedal assist makes travel easier.
- Supports ultra-long range 960Wh Samsung lithium battery, extending assisted journeys to 80 miles and pure electric travel to 60 miles.
- The wide 26″ X 4″ KENDA ALL-TERRAIN TIRES are truly ground-independent, with superb grip and reliable shock absorption.
- The Shimano 7-speed drivetrain offers more gear ratios, which can be used wisely to achieve mileage gain.
- The reliable hydraulic brake is equipped with a handle with a motor cut-off switch and will provide stable braking performance.
- LCD with USB charging, which can provide more information about the ride
- The integrated night light design makes night riding safer and more secure.
- 2-year all-inclusive warranty commitment, use more peace of mind.
What we don’t like about it?
- The weight is not light.
- Charging time is a bit long.
FAQs
- What is the approximate weight of the Himiway ZEBRA?
The bike weighs about 35.8kg (79.0 lbs), which is a bit bulky, but with the help of the battery motor, it won’t weigh the rider down.
- How far does this Himiway ZEBRA run on full power?
With the powerful Samsung/LG lithium battery, this bike supports riders with a long range of 60-80 miles of continuous riding.
- How long does it take to charge the Himiway ZEBRA?
The bike is equipped with US standard 3.0 A smart charger, but it took us 6-7 hours to achieve a full charge task due to the large capacity of 48V 20Ah Samsung/LG lithium battery.
- Can I charge my phone through the LCD?
Yes, Himiway ZEBRA’s Multifunctional LCD Display not only records the battery level, odometer, power meter, and much other information but also supports USB charging, which can resurrect the rider’s phone with a full charge outdoors.
Himiway ZEBRA Specs
Build
| Fork | Alloy front suspension fork with lockout and adjustment |
| Stem | MA-400 28.6*90*31.8MM |
| Saddle | SR saddle |
| Seatpost | 30.9*350mm Alloy Seatpost |
Groupset
| Crank | 46T*170MM 4-jaw L/R forged alloy |
| Cassette | Shimano 7 speed gear shift system |
| Chain | KMC chain |
| Brakes | Tektro 180MM Hydraulic Brakes |
| Brake Levers | Aluminum alloy comfort grip levers with motor cutoff switch |
Wheels
| Spokes | 13 Gauge on the front / 12 Gauge on the back |
| Tires | 26″ x 4″ Kenda fat tires |
Electric Components
| Motor | 750W brushless gear motor |
| Battery | 48V 20Ah Samsung/LG lithium battery |
| Remote | LCD display with USB charging |
| Charger | US standard 3.0 A smart charger |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Gear | Motor | Battery | Click view |
| Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus High Step | $2,099 | 1×7 | 750W brushless geared hub motor | 589-672 Wh | Click view |
| Magnum Nomad | $2,599 | 1×7 | Bafang 750Wh Mounted Geared Hub | 840 Wh Lithium-ion | Click view |
| TurboAnt Thunder T1 Fat Tire Electric Bike | $1,699 | 1×7 | 750 W brushless gear motor | External 48 V × 14 Ah, Samsung/LG battery | Click view |
| IGO Electric Outland – Oka | $2,699 | 1×9 | 750W geared rear hub drive | SAMSUNG integrated removable lithium battery with security lock | Click view |
Himiway ZEBRA vs. Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus High Step
If you’ve been paying attention to the price range of hardtail fat e-bikes, then you may have come across the Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus High Step in other places. After six iterations, the Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus High Step is a reliable option, featuring a 750W geared hub motor and 26″×4″ K-Shield tires that are often seen in rural, mountainous, and beach areas.
Undeniably, Rad Power Bikes is a reliable player in the price range of around $2,000, just like the Himiway ZEBRA. However, in terms of real riding experience, the Himiway ZEBRA impressed me more. In our evaluation, we found that the Himiway ZEBRA’s geometry design and details such as the seat post and saddle are more in line with people’s pedaling power standards, which allow us to generate more power from these details. Plus, the Himiway ZEBRA is also cheaper, making it difficult for us to resist.
Himiway ZEBRA vs. Magnum Nomad
Honestly, the Magnum Nomad didn’t impress me much and felt like a mismatched bike. With a price tag of up to $2,599, it didn’t offer much surprise.
The combination of Bafang 750W hub-drive and 840Wh Lithium-ion battery didn’t perform better than Himiway ZEBRA’s motor and battery. Similarly, the Shimano SIS 1×7 speed power system didn’t provide users with more gear ratios for climbing or riding. Admittedly, its 100mm travel spring suspension had a better shock absorption effect. But no one wants to pay for an unknown fork.
On the other hand, the cheaper Himiway ZEBRA is equally reliable in terms of battery, motor, and transmission brake system. Therefore, for budget-conscious riders, the answer to how to choose is clear.
Learn more : Is Magnum Nomad A Good Choice? – [Magnum Nomad Review]
Himiway ZEBRA vs. TurboAnt Thunder T1 Fat Tire Electric Bike
When it comes to budget options, the TurboAnt Thunder T1 Fat Tire Electric Bike is more affordable.
In fact, this bike is very similar to the Himiway Cruiser, which was mentioned earlier. Both have a 750W hub-drive and mechanical disc brakes. However, the Himiway Cruiser has a better range because it has a 48V 17.5Ah Samsung/LG lithium battery, while the TurboAnt Thunder T1 Fat Tire Electric Bike has an external 48V × 14 Ah, Samsung/LG battery.
Of course, if price is a concern, the Himiway Cruiser is currently even cheaper and more suitable for budget-conscious users. If you are looking to reduce your budget, while the Himiway ZEBRA might not be the wisest choice, the Himiway Cruiser is still a good option compared to the TurboAnt Thunder T1 Fat Tire Electric Bike.
Himiway ZEBRA vs. IGO Electric Outland – Oka
For those looking for a lightweight hardtail fat e-bike, this IGO Electric Outland – Oka is an attractive option. Because the same aluminum 26-inch frame is only 57.1 pounds, very light.
Likewise, its 1×9-speed SRAM X5 gearing system is extremely competitive. More gear ratios not only increase the user’s need to match the motor for daily riding but also help with climbing and descending.
But if you consider the price and range, we can see that it’s not very cost-effective. The 672WH removable battery can only support up to 45 miles of range, and the price is $2,699, which is not so friendly to the user’s wallet.
Therefore, the more cost-effective and longer range Himiway ZEBRA is more cost-effective.
Summary
All in all, the Himiway ZEBRA is comfortable and reliable as a hardtail fat e-bike. This is because it is impeccable in terms of its component configuration, range, and detailed design.
Its users do not need to choose the road carefully, nor do they need to worry about the pedaling effort, nor do they need to worry about the mileage of the bike. As long as you pedal step by step and charge on time, it is the best companion for people’s beach parties, mountain adventures, and daily travel.
If you’re looking for a superior motor to spread your pedaling pressure, start your journey with this Himiway ZEBRA.
Finally, if you like our content feel free to share it with your friends. If our content is helpful to you, you can click the email subscribe button below!
Learn More ：Top 11 Best Electric Bikes Under $1500 – Cheap And Practical
