Velowave Ranger

94/100
BikeRide Score
?
Where to buy
We earn affiliate commission. Learn more
Bike Size Charts

BikeRide finds and shows you the best prices of the bikes you want to buy. Prices constantly change and it’s impossible to compare them all yourself.

We search for prices on over 120 bike retailers to guarantee that we find the lowest prices – to save you time and money.

It’s a promise we stand behind: If you find a lower price on a bike elsewhere, we will sell it to you for 10% less. For example, if you find a bike for $480 that we have listed at $500, we will offer you to buy it for $432 through BikeRide. The bike must be the same color and size, sold in the US and not include the use of a coupon.

If you find a lower price, email us at [email protected] with documentation of the price. We’re committed to making sure that the cost of a bike does not keep you from cycling!

Facts

Gender
Release Year
Brand
Charge Time
8, 9 Hours
Maximum Range
40 Miles
Top Speed
28, 25, 20 mph
Watts
750 W
Torque
80 Nm
Volts and Amp Hours
48V 16Ah, 48V 15Ah
Class
Drive
Wheel Size
Number of Gears
Gearing Type
Weight
74.6 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Velowave Ranger. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

17 reasons to buy

  • The Ranger’s 16 or 15 amp-hour battery offers extended range and battery-life.
  • Riders find the Ranger capable on pavement, gravel, dirt, snow, mud and firm sand.
  • The Ranger has an independent throttle that allows for modulated acceleration.
  • At this low price, the Ranger is seen as a good value.
  • The Ranger FMTB3 1.0 (with 16Ah battery) meets Class 2 specifications.
  • Owners appreciate the look of the Ranger’s clean lines and concealed battery.
  • Riders are able to reach the advertised top speed of 28mph on flat stretches.
  • The Ranger’s 4” wide Kenda tires roll comfortably, off-road at low pressures.
  • Ranger riders are satisfied with the stopping power of Logan Hydraulic Disc Brakes.
  • Velowave say the Ranger reaches top speeds of 28mph with pedal-assist and 20mph using only the throttle.
  • Buyers found the Ranger quick and easy to assemble.
  • The Ranger is fitted with a bright, integrated 10W LED headlight.
  • Velowave say the Ranger’s range ranges from 25 to 40 miles via pedal-assist, or up to 35 miles using only the throttle.
  • The Ranger happily carries riders weighing up to 300lb.
  • The Velowave Ranger is designed to fit riders from 5'6'' to 6'2'' in height.
  • A walk-assist function helps owners to lug the Range up ramps or while walking.
  • From reports, Velowave customer service is quick to send out replacement parts.

10 reasons not to buy

  • It can be difficult to climb steep hills with the Ranger’s large 52-tooth chainring.
  • For at least four new Ranger owners, the bike’s rear derailleur snapped off and was destroyed within their first few pedal rotations.
  • The Ranger’s screen is small and displays bare-bones information.
  • While easy to assemble, the Ranger's instructions were deemed insufficient.
  • The Ranger is large and heavy at 74.6lb. It is not suitable for riders under 5’6”.
  • There is no rear light fitted to the Velowave Ranger.
  • Riders say there is a 1 to 2 second delay for assist to kick in or shut off.
  • The Ranger does not use a torque sensor, resulting in an ‘on/off’ pedal assist feel.
  • In some instances, the Ranger’s plastic battery-release tab cracked.
  • The Ranger’s Kenda tires are easily punctured by small thorns.

Bottom line

Velowave’s Ranger is a fat-tired e-bike that can reach a top speed of 28mph with pedal assist. The FMTB3 1.0 version is equipped with a 16Ah battery and can be limited to a top speed of 20mph. With throttle-only application, this makes it legal to ride on roads and paths as a Class 2 e-bike. The Ranger can also be configured to meet Class 3 specifications. Owners found it comfortable and capable on-road and off. It is a heavy beast, at almost 75lb. For some owners, the rear derailleur detached almost immediately, pulling it into the drivetrain. This is an issue that might be prevented by further tuning. The Ranger’s instructions are limited but assembly is quick and easy without them. The bike’s full-color display is clear to read yet small and basic. While there are trade-offs at this low price, many owners are satisfied with the Velowave Ranger.

Expert Reviews

0/100 based on 0 rated expert reviews

Testing Out the Velowave e–Bike ($█,███)

So far, a nice smooth ride… It’s a good e-bike for ███████ hundred dollars… you are locked in at 20mph… we got 22.6 miles on one charge doing 20mph.

Visit full review

User Ratings

94/100 based on 165 ratings
  • 5 star
    87%
  • 4 star
    6%
  • 3 star
    2%
  • 2 star
    2%
  • 1 star
    2%

Bike Comparison

Velowave Ranger in comparison to averages

Forum Discussions

Discuss which bike to choose in the forum