It can be a good option for those that want the utility of an electric bicycle but don’t have a lot of spare cash. But while Walmart is known for its super cheap e-bikes, the company has never offered higher-end e-bikes with nicer features like mid-drive motors. At least, not until now with the launch of kent bayside cruiser Kent’s new mid-drive electric bike. Many individuals are concerned by the concept of a youngster riding an electric bike because they imagine kids racing down the street without even pressing a pedal. While this is absolutely possible, it is not likely, nor is it the aim or design of children’s e-bikes.
Although this is a kid’s bike, it is doubtful how it would perform on trails better suited for adult riders. There have been criticisms involving consumers complaining that the bike has a very weak frame and breakable gears thus weakening its ability to travel in long hikes. The 10.4-amp hour battery promises around 1 hour 20 minutes of run time, or around 25 miles, using the electric assist at varying levels over the course of the ride. The Kent Electric Cruiser is a very pretty bike, with the removable Samsung lithium-ion battery integrated into the frame. Given the fire-engine red color scheme, 26-inch whitewall tires, and swooping handlebars, I felt like a fatter, hairier Pee Wee Herman pedaling around my city. If you’re looking for an inexpensive ebike for casual weekend rides, the Kent Electric Cruiser demands consideration.
But to be honest, I see this kids e-bike as a great thing. The V-brakes similarly aren’t incredibly high quality, but kent electric bike then again, they work just fine. This is a $498 kids e-bike after all – not a $17,000 S-Works for lycra-clad dads.
Shimano Tourney TX800 8-speed derailleur and shifters are paired with a no-name crank and mechanical disc brakes. Front and rear fenders and a rear rack come standard on the Electric Cruiser, which was a bit of a surprise, given its relatively low price. Most of the people buying this bike will love the wide, padded saddle and upright ride position, but adjusting the saddle angle was next to impossible. Of course if the battery ever runs out, the e-bike simply turns back into a standard pedal bike powered by a morning bowl of Wheaties. There’s even a six-speed transmission that makes the bike extra pedal-friendly even without any electric assist.
This year, I introduced my wife Haley to some local beginner singletrack in our new town of Cleveland, Georgia, and she loved it. I installed new front forks on my bike, purchased kent road bike her a ride, and we started making the weekly trek for a short 30-minute trail excursion. Electric bikes amplify your pedaling power and your ability to do and see more.