As a catch-all term for the many aspects influencing a bike’s feel, ride quality encompasses sizing and fit, comfort, handling, user interface, motor engagement, and other factors. We found a few highlights in this area when testing the Freedare Eden, but we also identified some key areas with room for improvement.
In terms of its sizing, the bike is available in a single frame size advertised for riders from 5’5” to 6’5”. Our team was divided on its fit, but at 5’11”, I found it to be somewhat awkward-feeling. I was unable to extend my legs fully when pedaling—possibly the reason for the extremely sensitive torque sensor—and I found the 650mm handlebars too narrow.
As I stated in the intro, the Eden is one of two models made by Freedare. The brand’s other fat tire e-bike, the Saiga, has a high-step frame with greater saddle height and flat handlebars but is otherwise identical to the Eden. As such, it’s better suited for taller riders; I’m confident the Saiga would be more appropriate for my height and leg length.
We appreciate that Freedare offers two bikes for riders of different sizes, but we encourage them to expand the number of frame sizes offered for each model. This would allow for a better fit—and increase the overall comfort—for riders on the extreme ends of the height spectrum.
I found the Eden’s handling to be relatively predictable, though its size and weight were noticeable (as I’d expect for a fat tire bike). It was appropriately stable, which is one of the style’s most appealing features. In general, the bike handled well, though wider handlebars would likely improve its overall feel.
The bike’s motor engaged quickly and smoothly, and the bike felt controlled when riding at speed, but I noticed that its 7-speed drivetrain resulted in ghost pedaling at speeds above 20 mph. Considering that the bike ships in Sports Mode, where its speed can reach 28 mph, we recommend that Freedare upgrade to an 8-speed drivetrain with a wider gearing range.
An upgraded drivetrain would also likely include a trigger-style shifter, which we feel would be a better fit in terms of comfort, ergonomics, and speed.
As a fat tire e-bike, the Eden includes a suspension fork and knobby 4”-wide tires. These give the bike limited off-road capabilities, making it suitable for multi-use trails, gravel roads, and other low-difficulty areas.
I’ve discussed multiple points of critique, so I want to be sure to balance that as much as possible with kudos where appropriate. I was pleased by the bike’s color display and control panel, but the Freedare app was one of its best features.
In addition to changing the bike’s riding modes, the app can track ride data (speed, distance, time, etc.), create routes, and provide turn-by-turn navigation. Through IoT (Internet of Things) technology, users can also check the status of most of the bike’s major components.
The Freedare app also uses the bike’s integrated SIM card to monitor its location. Users can set the app to send text messages, emails, phone calls, and/or app notifications if the bike is moved—or stolen. We found this feature to be too sensitive (slight jostles would blow up my phone), but the team at Freedare was able to reduce the sensitivity.
Regarding the SIM card, Freedare offers users 500 MB of free data for five years. After that point, users will need to pay an annual subscription fee to maintain its functionality. Pricing data was not available during our review but will be in the future.
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