Magnum Cosmo 2.0 Review, 2023 | Electric Bike Report

The Cosmo 2.0 is equipped with a 48V, 624 watt-hour (Wh) battery to power its motor. We tested the resulting range of the bike using the process described in the graphic above. In Eco mode, the bike traveled 49.5 miles over the course of 4 hours and 45 minutes, with an average speed of 9.8 mph. With the maximum amount of pedal assistance in Turbo mode, we pedaled for 37.9 mph over 2 hours and 3 minutes. Our average speed in this second test was 18.4 mph.

We were happy with the bike’s Range Test performance, as our data both met and exceeded Magnum’s advertised range as well as our expected results. Magnum advertises between 25 and 50 miles on a single charge, though we think there is potential for some riders to exceed that. Our testers covered over 800 feet of elevation change that required more energy from the battery, so those riding solely on flat roads may achieve better results.

The Cosmo 2.0’s motor/battery pairing proved to be efficient. Using its battery’s Wh rating and the nominal 500W output of its motor, we estimated the bike’s range using the method described in our guide to e-bike batteries. We anticipated that the duration of our Turbo mode test would be approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, with a result of roughly 25 miles. The final result of nearly 38 miles was impressive – especially considering that the battery’s 624 watt-hours (Wh) of capacity is relatively middle-of-the-road.

Comparatively speaking, the Cosmo 2.0’s results lined up well with those we measured from similar commuter and cruiser-style e-bikes. The bike’s results landed somewhere in the middle; some other models managed more miles while some expired after fewer. Overall, we think the Cosmo 2.0 demonstrated solid range with the capability to cover a long round-trip commute or a number of shorter casual rides done solely for enjoyment.

To evaluate the Cosmo 2.0’s hill climbing ability, we tested both its throttle and pedal assist system at Hell Hole Trail. With an average of 12% grades across a third of a mile, this location is an extreme challenge that some e-bikes are not able to overcome.

The Cosmo succeeded in both portions of the test. We reached the top of the hill in 2 minutes and 8 seconds using the bike’s throttle, which carried us at an average speed of 8.5 mph. As is usually the case when testing e-bikes with rear-hub motors, we pedaled up with a notably shorter time in Turbo Mode. With an average speed of 11.7 mph, we finished the course in 1 minute and 33 seconds.

When comparing these results to those of similar e-bikes we’ve tested with 500W rear-hub motors, the Cosmo 2.0 was on the slower side in both tests, which was initially surprising considering that its motor peaks at just 750W with 55Nm of torque – both in the expected range of figures for a commuter.

Considering the results of our Range Test, we saw that the Cosmo 2.0’s motor was demonstrably more efficient (used less power from the battery) when compared to extremely similar e-bikes, this makes more sense. The Cosmo uses power more slowly, meaning that it also does work at a slower pace, even though its output may be the same.

Regardless, our test still proved that the Cosmo 2.0’s motor has the strength to handle challenging and even extreme hills. It offers riders the option to contribute to the ride through pedaling, but it proved capable of doing all of the heavy lifting on its own as well.

Like many (perhaps even the majority of) e-bikes we have tested, the Magnum Cosmo 2.0 features Tektro E-350 hydraulic disc brakes. This system is rated specifically for e-bikes, and uses two-piston calipers paired with 180 mm rotors. After gathering three sets of data using the testing process described above, we calculated an average stopping distance of 23’-9” for the Cosmo.

While this distance is beyond our current average for the commuter and cruiser-style e-bikes we have previously tested (this being 22’-1” at time of writing), it is within our expected range of results.

Going simply by feel, the brakes responded well – perhaps a bit on the slower side – but plenty capable of bringing the bike to a halt or modulating speed when riding downhill. We noticed that the rear tire tended to squeal and slide when braking extremely hard, but not to an unsafe degree. While the tire tread pattern is visually appealing, it seemed to lack some grip when braking – this likely contributed to our longer-than-average stopping distance.

Ultimately, while we wouldn’t mind some improvement in the future, we consider the Cosmo 2.0’s brakes to be safe and effective.

We liked the Cosmo 2.0’s accommodating and well-cushioned saddle, the shape of its ergonomic grips, and the flexibility of the bike’s fit. With only a single frame size, the bike relies on multiple adjustment points to accommodate riders 5’-0” and up.

The bike’s seatpost offers 10 inches of height from 27.75” to 37.75”. By altering the angle of the adjustable stem or rotating the handlebars, riders can alter the reach, handlebar height, and riding position. At 5’-11” I found a comfortable fit with a nearly-vertical stem resulting in an enjoyable and relaxed upright riding position.

With an SR Suntour suspension fork with 80 mm of travel, the ride was kept smooth when rolling over uneven pavement and speed bumps. We also enjoyed the quick and responsive handling that resulted from the 660 mm handlebars and 26”x2.35” CST tires.

We found that, with such relatively short handlebars, the cockpit felt somewhat crowded, though not overwhelmingly so. The left bar hosts the bike’s thumb-operated throttle lever and small control panel, while the right is home to the RevoShift twist shifter and a button for the electronic horn. We considered swapping the horn module with the throttle lever, but ultimately decided to leave the standard arrangement.

With its flashy, vivid colors and relaxed feel, the Cosmo 2.0 is relatively unique for a commuter e-bike. It can ride up to 20 mph right out of the box (and even faster when unlocked), but the bike never felt like it needed to get anywhere in a hurry. For this reason, it seemed to have the heart and soul of a beach cruiser – it evoked the same feeling of enjoying the journey instead of being focused on the destination.

This sense was apparent in our test results as well. The bike certainly had the power to get us where we needed to go, whether to the top of Hell Hole Trail for our Hill Test or around our local network of bike paths in our Range Test. But it also didn’t need to be the fastest in getting the job done.

As a result, we think the Cosmo 2.0 is well-suited for those looking to take it easy with work AND play. For commuters, it includes everything needed to cruise to work in style. For enthusiasts of leisurely cycling, the bike provides a comfortable and relaxing ride perfect for family rides in the neighborhood or sightseeing along your local bike path.

After testing the bike, we had only a few relatively minor points of critique. Most importantly, we think brake lights (in addition to the existing taillight) would enhance the bike’s commuter potential by increasing safety on the road. Additionally, while we think the Cosmo 2.0 looks great as-is, but a full-color display and cleaner cable management would make it even better.

Otherwise, we’ll chalk this one up as another win for Magnum!

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions down in our comments section or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Magnum Cosmo 2.0.