Our test bike shipped as a Class 2 e-bike with its throttle and pedal assist system (PAS) limited to 20 mph, but using the Heybike app we were able to open it up to its full Class 3 mode. We performed Speed Tests in each Class mode to determine the pre-programmed limits in each PAS setting while riding along a flat, predetermined course of local bike paths.
Prior to engaging the PAS, we soft-pedaled the bike with no assistance at 7.8 miles per hour; we could have pedaled faster, but we wanted to clearly observe the difference the motor made.
In Class 2 mode, we recorded a maximum speed of 8.4 mph in PAS 1, providing a subtle boost that might be best for newer riders or those who prefer a calm ride. The Mars 2.0 rocketed ahead in PAS 2, carrying us to 14.2 mph, then did the same thing in PAS 3 by delivering a max of 18.4 mph. The boost in PAS 4 was more subtle since the bike was already so near to its Class 2 limit; we reached the ceiling of 20mph. PAS 5 brought no change in speed since the motor was already at its cutoff point.
In Class 3 mode, we observed similar results in PAS 1, 2, and 3, with maximum speeds of 8.2 mph, 14.2 mph, and 18.4 mph respectively. There was a measurable difference in PAS 4, where the bike topped out at 21.2 mph. The largest power increase occurred when moving up to PAS 5, where we reached 27.9 mph.
After performing this test, we usually analyze the distribution of speed and power between settings, but this is less relevant on the Mars 2.0 since the Heybike app allows users to fully customize the limits of each setting.
Still, if we look at the standard distribution, we see a relatively common pattern in the data from our Class 2 test, where the increases in power are measured and consistent on the low end, but taper off as they approach the 20 mph limit toward the top. The Class 3 data shows that the motor had much more “breathing room” on the top end, though the max speed in PAS 4 is a bit lower than expected in comparison to the rest of the settings.
With a 48V electrical system, a motor that peaks at 1200W, and a maximum torque output of 80 Newton-meters (Nm), it was no surprise that the Mars 2.0’s acceleration was so punchy; the motor can draw power rapidly and output a significant amount of force.
When testing the throttle, we appreciated that its acceleration built more slowly and steadily, and we liked that the throttle speed was tied to the same limits as the PAS (though this too can be adjusted in the app). This made it easy to find a consistent riding speed without the need to hold the throttle lever somewhere in the middle of its travel.
A downside is that, when adjusting the top speed of the PAS to 28 mph through the Heybike app, the throttle’s maximum speed was also brought up to this limit. In most locations in the US, throttle speed must be limited to 20 mph when riding on roads, so we highly recommend that Heybike divide the maximum speed setting so that throttle and PAS speeds can be adjusted separately.
Otherwise, while we advise some caution to those who prefer a calmer ride, we found the Mars 2.0’s performance in this test to be spirited and exciting. We greatly appreciate the ability to fully customize the individual PAS settings, and we were pleased to note that the bike could easily reach and maintain its Class 3 limit.
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