Engwe X-Series Review (X26/X24/X20): 1,200-Watt Fat E-Bike

Engwe X-Series (X26/X24/X20) is another foldable electric bike by Engwe.

It’s a series of hybrid bikes that are a strange combination of so many different types of bikes:

• folding bike
• fat bike
• mountain bike
• downhill bike
• commuter bike

In this Engwe X-Series review, we take a closer look into this electric bike series and compare the similarities and differences between the X26, X24, and X20.

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Engwe X-Series Review

At first, the series came out only with the X26 model. It was the company’s first bike with 26″ wheels. The previous models (Engine Pro, EP-2 Pro, and C20 Pro) all had 20-inch wheels. It’s worth noting that a couple of months after launching X26, Engwe released another 26-inch e-bike – Engwe P26.

Later the Engwe X26 e-bike got itself a couple of smaller siblings – Engwe X24 and X20.

Additionally, no previous Engwe bikes have had triple suspension. But is the suspension system good? We will get to that later.

I had an opportunity to see all those models with my own eyes and now I can share my experience with you.

Before we really dive in, let’s take a look at the specs of Engwe X-Series.

Engwe X26/X24/X20 Specs

General

Electronics

Bike Components

Engwe X-Series Performance

Motor and Speed

The Engwe X26’s motor is one of its most notable features.

The whole series of the bike offers a reliable motor and steady power at 750W. However, there are slight differences in the peak power among different models. The peak power of the motors of X26 and X24 is 1,200W, while the motor of X20 has a peak power of 1000W. Also, the 2 bigger versions have slightly more torque than the smaller one (70 Nm vs 65 Nm).

However, the power difference doesn’t change the top speed of the bikes. Right out of the box, all versions of the bike have a speed limited to 16 mph (25km/h) to comply with the laws in all jurisdictions. But when the speed limiter is turned off, all X-series electric bikes have a 31mph top speed (50km/h).

The bikes have 5 different pedal-assist levels. Each of them gives you a different amount of assistance.

Hill Climbing

As mentioned, the Engwe X26 and X24 have an exceptionally powerful motor capable of producing 70Nm of torque.

Although both electric bikes weigh over 90 pounds, which is a lot, it’s still able to climb inclines of 30 degrees. So, Engwe X26 and X24 are perfect for individuals looking to experience some off-road fun.

The motor of Engwe X20 provides a bit less torque, but at the same time, the X20 is considerably lighter. So it can keep up with its bigger brother on the inclines as well.

Dual Batteries and Range

All Engwe X-Series e-bikes have dual batteries, which both are hidden. The main battery is located in the seat post and the 2nd battery is hidden inside the frame.

Again, the X26 and X24 models share the same specs, while the X20 is slightly more modest.

In total, Engwe X26 and X24 batteries have 1,402Wh of energy capacity. The batteries of Engwe X20 have an energy capacity of 1066Wh.

However, the batteries are not connected to the system at the same time. There is a cable that has to be connected to whichever battery you want to use at the time. So, if one battery gets empty, you have to unplug the cable from it and switch it over to another battery.

The bike’s onboard computer displays battery levels on a 5-part scale, and manufacturers estimate users weighing 60 kilograms can ride the X26 and X24 bikes for a 50-62 mile (80-100 km) range on flat terrain at 25km/h with pedal assist mode. The estimated range for the X20 model is 40-50 miles.

Using only the throttle mode reduces the range to 31 miles (50 km). However, the batteries’ removable feature makes it easy for riders to charge them at any power point or carry multiple batteries when planning to commute longer distances.

While I was testing the X26 bike, I managed an 85km range on a fully charged battery with an average 25km/h speed on mountainous terrain.

Charging

There is a charging port below the saddle for charging the main battery. It takes about 7-8 hours to fully recharge it.

For charging the second battery, you can either remove the battery or charge it while it’s still in the frame. To remove the battery, you always have to fold the bike so you can take the battery out.

Hydraulic Brakes

All versions from the Engwe X-Series have rear and front hydraulic disc brakes. The bike’s brakes work well and are effective, although they are not from a well-known brand (Logan).

Applying the front and rear disc brakes I managed to stop the X26 within a 12m (39.4 ft.) distance.

Since the bike is so heavy, it was a good idea to install hydraulic brakes on the bike. The brakes have enough stopping power, which ensures riders stop on time.

Shimano Altus 8-Speed Gearing

Although the Shimano Altus is not the cheapest gearing system, it’s still an entry-level option.

The Shimano Altus 8-speed gearing technology uses 15 and 13-tooth pulleys, allowing all the ebikes from the X-series to manage effective gearing, 34-tooth sprockets, and wide ratio gearing. The bikes have a smart cage pulley plate that looks better on the bike and provides more ground clearance.

Engwe X-Series Design and Features

Frame

One thing that jumps out when observing the X26 and X24 is their massive size. Although the X20 looks a bit smaller, it’s also quite heavy. Due to triple suspensions, dual batteries, and fat tires, the X-series is much heavier than other Engwe electric bikes.

The weight of the Engwe X26, X24, and X20 is 96 lbs (44 kg), 92 lbs (42 kg), and 82 lbs (37 kg) respectively.

Each bike has a very comfortable seat. At the rear, there is another saddle for a passenger. However, there are no footpegs.

The bikes have an external cable routing like all other Engwe bikes. It’s quite messy and doesn’t look neat.

The handlebars and the seat of Engwe X-Series are well adjustable. Although the bikes have only one frame size, it is suitable for a wide variety of riders. However, it’s not suitable for very small people.

Each model of the X-Series has their own recommended rider height:

• X26 is suitable for: 5’5″ – 6’5″ (165-195 cm)
• X24 is suitable for: 5’2″ – 6’4″ (157-193 cm)
• X20 is suitable for: 5’4″ – 6’2″ (162-188 cm)

Triple Suspensions

All X-Series e-bikes (X26/X24/X20) have a triple suspension extending from their rear air shock, middle mechanical shock, and front hydraulic shock.

However, these suspensions look much fancier than they really are. If you look at the rear suspension, it seems like it has a lot of travel like downhill bikes. Actually, it has just about an inch of travel.

Also, the same goes for the middle shock. It has even less travel than the rear shocks. The front suspension has a bit more travel.

But still, the suspension system allows you to easily ride over the curbs and it soaks up easily.

Additionally, the suspension reduces any painful effects riders would have experienced on their back or lower back when riding over bumpy terrain.

Portability

Even though all bike models of the series are foldable, they are not easily portable. The bikes are really heavy and you don’t want to lift them.

Also, you need a very big car to be able to fit the folded bike into the trunk.

We think that the only reason why it has a foldable frame is that otherwise, you would not be able to remove the second battery.

One-Piece Wheels and Fat Tires

All bikes from the series come with 4″ fat tires. Fat tires provide better grip because of their large contact area and are also skid-resistant. They give users better control when riding through various elements, stop faster, and make it easier to take tight turns.

At first, the wheels of each bike look like the same. Just a different size. But then I saw one quite big difference.

The X26 and X20 have one-piece wheels, meaning their design incorporates the wheels’ frame and spikes forming a single piece of metal. But the X24 has regular wheels with spokes.

So usually the one-piece wheels improve stability, maintenance, and durability, making them way better than traditional spoked wheels. However, if you like the traditional look of the bike, you can choose the X24 version.

Handlebar and Display

Handlebars look the same on each model.

On the handlebar, you can find brake levers on both sides. On the left side, there is a throttle, an electronic horn, and display control buttons. And on the right, there is a switch for selecting a gear.

In the middle of the handlebar, there is a large, colored LCD showing vital information riders need to have a great experience.

The screen shows the battery life, speed, riding mode, etc., clearly making it easy for riders to adjust various controls and monitor their ride for the perfect experience.

The display design is also thoughtful since riders don’t have to scroll down the screen, which can be distracting, mainly because they share the road with other users.

The bikes have high handlebars designed for tall riders. However, they are adjustable, as with most other parts, including the twist grip, button module placement, and saddle heights.

Lights

Additionally, the X-Series e-bikes have 48V 12W headlights that automatically turn on at night, which provide quite good illumination.

At the rear, the light is behind the passenger’s seat. If you apply the brakes, the brake lights come on.

Engwe X26 Review Conclusions

To sum it up, it’s an interesting series of bikes with powerful motors and great range. Having a spare battery inside of the bike is a really cool idea. Also, fat tires make the ride comfort really good.

However, the bike is really heavy and without the help of the motor, it’s barely rideable. Also, the triple suspension looks nice but in reality, it’s quite a low-quality system.

Overall, I must say that it was cool to test such a unique e-bike. I like that Engwe has the guts to come out with something different and surprise its customers with so unique products.

Jarmo Habakuk

The founder and the editor-in-chief of the Electric Wheelers blog. With a previous background in IT, sales, and video editing, he has now established himself as a micromobility expert.

He bought his first e-scooter over 5 years ago and since then has owned dozens of e-scooters and e-bikes. His deep understanding of the technical aspects, coupled with a keen eye for market trends, enables him to provide insightful and reliable content.

His commitment to promoting sustainable and efficient urban mobility solutions has made him a respected voice in the community of eco-friendly transportation enthusiasts.