Vivi FM20UL Electric Bike Review – Compact, Powerful, and Foldable

Description

Vivi Electric Bike Review – Folding, Fun, and Full of Surprises

The Vivi Electric Bike, Model FM20UL, caught my attention as an all-in-one solution for urban commuting and recreational riding. With its 20-inch fat tires, foldable frame, and a removable 48V battery, I decided to give this bike a spin. Spoiler alert: It’s been quite the adventure, but not without its quirks.

The First Ride – Smooth Sailing or Bumpy Roads?

From the moment I mounted this bike, I was struck by its sturdy aluminum frame and the smooth acceleration offered by the 500W motor. It’s quick to respond, and when fully throttled, the motor peaks at 750W, achieving speeds of up to 22 mph. That’s impressive for an e-bike in this price range.

The dual suspension system is a lifesaver on rough city roads, absorbing shocks and ensuring a stable ride. I live in an area notorious for potholes, and this bike handled them like a champ. However, at 55 pounds, it’s no featherweight. Folding it to store in my car trunk was manageable but not effortless. If you’re petite or not used to lifting heavy objects, take note.

The 7-speed gear system proved versatile. Climbing hills felt less like a chore and more like a breeze, thanks to the pedal-assist mode. On flat terrain, switching to cruise control mode was a game-changer. I could maintain a consistent speed without constantly pedaling—a feature I didn’t know I needed until I had it.

Battery Life and Charging – A Mixed Bag

The bike’s removable 48V 374.4 Wh battery is both a blessing and a minor inconvenience. It’s super easy to detach and charge indoors, which is great for security and convenience. Charging takes about 4-6 hours, and I managed to get around 40 miles in pedal-assist mode and roughly 22 miles in full electric mode. However, if you’re someone who forgets to charge devices (like me), you might find yourself pedaling a bit more than planned.

Design and Build Quality – Sleek Yet Functional

Aesthetically, the white aluminum frame is modern and eye-catching. The anti-slip fat tires not only look rugged but offer excellent grip on various terrains. The LED 3-speed smart meter display is easy to read, though not overly advanced. While the frame feels solid, a few complaints from other users about bolt durability had me double-checking mine. So far, so good.

Comparing to Competitors – What Sets Vivi Apart?

When pitted against competitors like the popular Rad Power Bikes, the Vivi FM20UL holds its ground with its foldability and affordability. While Rad Power’s models might offer slightly better battery performance and more advanced displays, they don’t fold, making the Vivi a more compact choice for city dwellers. However, brands like Ancheer offer similar features but fall short in build quality compared to Vivi’s robust frame.

Value for Money – Worth the Investment?

For what it offers—strong motor, foldable design, removable battery, and dual suspension—this bike is a steal. It’s not perfect, but the features-to-price ratio is hard to beat in the e-bike market. Minor trade-offs like weight and simpler electronics are forgivable at this price point.

Pros

• Powerful 750W Peak Motor: Provides excellent speed and acceleration for urban commutes.
• Compact Foldable Design: Saves space and fits in car trunks, perfect for apartment living.
• Versatile 7-Speed Gear System: Handles hills and flat terrains with ease.
• Long Battery Range: Up to 40 miles in pedal-assist mode.
• Dual Suspension: Ensures comfort on bumpy roads.

Cons

• Heavy Build: At 55 pounds, it’s not the lightest folding bike.
• Battery Charging Time: Takes 4-6 hours, which might be lengthy for some users.
• Basic Display: The LED smart meter lacks advanced features like GPS or app connectivity.
• Bolt Durability Concerns: Some users reported stripped bolts, requiring extra maintenance.
• Key Placement: Needs the key inserted for motor operation, which feels inconvenient.

What Comes with the Product

• Vivi Electric Bike (Model FM20UL)
• 48V Removable Battery
• Charger
• Tool Kit
• User Manual

Warranty & Support Information

Vivi offers a 1-year warranty on both the battery and motor, covering manufacturing defects. Customer service is responsive, with options to contact them through email or their website. Replacement parts like wheels and computers are available, though some users reported delays. Keep your bike’s serial number handy—it’s a unique identifier that can be crucial for warranty claims or theft recovery.

Additional information