A common question most people ask when looking at an e-bike is, “How many miles will this bike take me on one battery charge?” So, we do a range test to answer that. Normally we do two parts, a test for the highest level PAS – for maximum reliance on the motor; and we do a test on the lowest PAS level – for longest distance with minimum continual reliance on the motor. We did four tests instead for the Rubicon because PAS 1 – is in two separate operation modes – Eco and Sport. The Eco mode is meant to minimize battery consumption. This is helpful if you’re planning to ride a long distance. It is also the mode you’ll want to use when your battery level is dropping and you need to make sure you have enough power to reach your destination. The Sport mode is for when you want full power, in any of the PAS levels, and you are not as concerned about using up battery power.
First we’ll review the Eco mode results. Our test rider for the Eco PAS 1, Brenden, rode 46.1 miles, in a time of 2:52, average speed of 16.09 mph, before the battery quit. This fell far short of the 62-mile range the manufacturer claims. Why the big difference? Frankly, we don’t know. Brenden rides a lot of our tests and he is very consistent. So we know our rider is not the reason.
Our test results for the high PAS test in Eco mode came close to QuietKat’s claim. TJ rode in Eco PAS 5 for 31.14 miles, time of 1:37, average speed of 19.3 mph. This was very close to QuietKat’s 32 mile range claim.
Next up are the Sport mode results. In Sport, PAS 1, rider TJ went 44.8 miles, total time of 2:28, average speed 18.10 mph before the battery died on him. I had the opportunity to do the test ride for the Sport PAS 5 test. Unlike most other test rides, which are performed on bike paths, I did this test on actual desert terrain, identical to actual usage. The trails I rode on are considered intermediate in difficulty and featured a mix of hard pack, rocks, soft sand, and hills. Total distance in Sport PAS-5 mode was 13.36 miles, in 1:21 and average speed of 9.96 mph.
QuietKat didn’t give us a range claim for Sport mode. I was a little disappointed with the distance – I was expecting to go at least 20 miles. But the ride was really fun! The suspension was great at absorbing the bumps and rocks I rode over. The 26” x 4.8” monster tires provided great handling all throughout. I felt like I had more control riding the Rubicon on these trails than I have when I ride my 250cc dirt bike on these same trails. Ofcourse, I’m not riding as fast on the e-bike (average speed 10 mph vs 30 mph on the motorcycle), and the Rubicon weighs less than one-third the weight of an average dirt motorcycle – another e-bike advantage over motorcycles.
If you are planning to ride more than 45 miles, you should consider purchasing a backup battery from QuietKat (currently priced at $999 plus tax). For long rides where you’ll have access to car or truck, a 12-volt DC charger is a good idea (currently $122 plus tax). If you’re camping and have no access to electricity for charging, you can purchase a portable e-bike solar charging station from QuietKat (current price $769 plus tax). Either way, the folks at QuietKat understand what your likely e-bike outdoor adventure might entail, so it’s worth looking at their accessories page before you make the final purchase.
Our overall takeaway from the QuietKat Rubicon’s range test is Eco mode is the way to go if you want to ride 40 miles before recharging. You’ll get enough “oomph” from the motor to get where you need to, just not a lot of power. But if you’re out for fun, and not worried about draining the battery, then the Sport mode will give you an awesome ride!
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