Bakcou e-Bikes Review: Are These Bikes Any Good?

Last Updated on October 29, 2023 by Igor Karni

Bakcou, founded by Bryan Child and Dave Andre, is a brand that embodies the love for the backcountry and the desire to explore remote areas while minimizing disturbance to wildlife and their habitat.

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With a focus on creating durable, efficient, and affordable electric bikes, Bakcou stands out as a brand that combines sustainability and adventure. Whether you’re seeking to climb higher, go farther, or explore more while preserving the environment, Bakcou’s will undoubtedly have a suitable e-bike for you.

Is Bakcou a Good E-bike Brand to Buy?

Bakcou, the brand built by athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, offers a range of electric bikes designed to take you to new heights and push your limits. With their exceptional versatility, durability, efficiency, and comprehensive warranty, Bakcou is the ultimate choice for those seeking adventure while treading lightly on the environment.

Bakcou Company History and Values

Bakcou‘s journey began with the shared vision of Bryan Child and Dave Andre, fueled by their love for the backcountry and a deep commitment to preserving nature. They recognized the need for a means of exploration that would be quiet, non-pollutant, and respectful of wildlife and their habitats.

With this in mind, Bakcou designed and built electric bikes that would provide access to remote areas while minimizing environmental impact.

The brand’s mission is twofold: to create the most durable and efficient electric bikes on the market and to make them affordable and accessible to outdoor enthusiasts.

Bakcou‘s approach was not simply to add a motor to a standard bicycle frame but to design the bike around the motor and drivetrain, ensuring optimal performance and durability.

Their comprehensive warranty reflects their commitment to standing behind their products and providing customers peace of mind.

Unique selling points and brand philosophy

What sets Bakcou apart is their unwavering dedication to the backcountry and the environment. Unlike many other e-bike brands, Bakcou was founded by athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who understand the needs and desires of those seeking adventure in nature. This deep understanding is evident in every aspect of their bikes, from their durable construction to exceptional performance.

Bakcou’s philosophy is centered around enabling individuals to climb higher, go farther, and explore more without adding stress to the environment. They believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the backcountry sustainably and responsibly.

With its focus on quality, reliability, and affordability, Bakcou is not just your average brand; it’s a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for adventure and a commitment to preserving our natural surroundings.

Read also: How to find a reliable e-bike? And, Should I buy a new or used electric bicycle?

Product Proposition and Range

Regarding quality, performance, and innovation, Bakcou stands out as a leading brand in the electric bike industry. Their commitment to building durable and efficient bikes is evident in every aspect of their product range.

Quality is at the core of Bakcou‘s proposition. Their bikes are meticulously designed and constructed with the highest standards of craftsmanship and materials. Each component is carefully selected to ensure longevity and reliability, allowing riders to tackle rugged terrains confidently.

Bakcou’s dedication to durability is further reinforced by its comprehensive warranty, ensuring customers that their investment is protected.

In terms of performance, Bakcou bikes deliver exceptional capabilities. Equipped with powerful motors and advanced drivetrains, these e-bikes offer impressive speed, acceleration, and handling.

Whether you’re conquering steep inclines or navigating challenging trails, Bakcou’s bikes provide the necessary power and agility to take on any terrain. The combination of electric assistance and rider input creates a seamless and exhilarating ride experience.

Innovation is a crucial driving force behind Bakcou‘s product development. They continually strive to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the electric bike industry. From integrating cutting-edge technologies to exploring new design concepts, Bakcou stays ahead of the curve. Their relentless pursuit of innovation translates into e-bikes that meet and exceed riders’ expectations.

Whether enhancing battery performance, improving motor efficiency, or refining the user interface, Bakcou consistently introduces innovative features that elevate the riding experience.

Read also: How to select your first electric mountain bike? And, How much does a good eMTB e-bike cost?

With Bakcou, customers can expect top-notch quality, outstanding performance, and a commitment to innovation that sets them apart. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual rider, Bakcou’s e-bikes are built to deliver an unparalleled experience on any trail or backcountry expedition.

From how they design their e-bikes, it’s evident that Bakcou focuses on riders who want to get out into the backcountry and trail riding more but still have a solid option for commuting and general urban riding.

Their models are wholly their own, defying categorization and paving the way to more unconventional ones such as “hunting e-bike” and “all-terrain e-bike” – and as such, we’ve opted to label them as primarily hybrids.

Bakcou e-Bikes Review: Model Lines

Model Name	Type
Mule	Fat, Hybrid
Storm	Fat, Hybrid
Scout	Fat, Hybrid
Kodiak	Fat, Hybrid
Flatlander	Fat, Hybrid
Mav3	Fat, Hybrid

What differentiates Bakcou e-bikes?

• Bakcou e-bikes, like their most recognized model Mule, feature the powerful Bafang Ultra mid-drive motor, delivering 1,000W of power and 160Nm of torque.
• Riders can adjust the power output to comply with regulations while enjoying superior performance.
• The bikes are designed for off-road adventures, capable of towing gear-laden trailers to remote areas.
• Key components include wide handlebars for control and stability, a Shimano Alivio 9-speed drivetrain for reliability, and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes for powerful stopping.
• The e-bikes have a high carrying capacity of 300 lbs (135 kg) and come with integrated accessories such as front lights, kickstands, and a bolt-on pannier rack.
• Bakcou offers a range of specialized accessories, including trailers, racks, and bags, to enhance the versatility and gear-carrying capability of their e-bikes.

Build Quality and Design Aesthetics

Bakcou strongly emphasizes build quality, utilizing robust materials, and paying meticulous attention to detail. Their e-bikes are designed to withstand rugged terrains and demanding outdoor conditions, ensuring durability and longevity.

The overall design aesthetics of Bakcou e-bikes exude a hardy and adventurous appeal. With their sturdy frames, aggressive stance, and purposeful lines, these e-bikes seamlessly achieve that look. Functionality and aesthetics make them visually appealing to outdoor enthusiasts seeking reliability and a tough (bordering on daring) style in their electric bikes.

There’s no shortage of appealing color options, particularly for outdoor people who love the modern hunt and need more camo motifs. 

Performance and Ride Experience

Motor power, battery capacity, and range of Bakcou e-bikes

Bakcou offers a range of electric bikes, including the Storm, Mule, Flatlander, Mav3, Kodiak, and Scout. These models are designed to deliver exceptional performance and ride experiences in various terrains. Let’s delve into their technical aspects:

Motor Power: The Bakcou e-bikes have powerful motors that provide ample torque for tackling rugged terrain. The Storm features the Bafang Ultra mid-drive motor, delivering an excellent 1,000W nominal rating and 160Nm of torque. Almost all models also incorporate high-performance Bafang motors.

The battery capacity plays a crucial role in determining the range of an e-bike. Bakcou offers different battery options across its models. For instance, the Storm is available with a 48V, 17.4Ah base model, a 48V, 19.2Ah mid-level model, or a more extended range 48V, 21Ah option. The MAV3 has an integrated 30Ah lithium-ion battery, providing substantial power for extended rides.

The specific range of each Bakcou e-bike may vary depending on various factors such as terrain, rider weight, assist level, and speed. Most popular models, like the Mule, top at 40 miles (64 km).

Speed, acceleration, and handling capabilities

Bakcou e-bikes offer impressive speed and acceleration capabilities. The Storm, for example, can reach up to 20 mph (32 kph) in its street-legal configuration. Other models, such as the MAV3, can reach a top speed of 28 mph (45 kph), but we can say the same for most of the other e-bikes in the catalog.

The powerful motors contribute to quick acceleration, allowing riders to navigate challenging terrain easily.

Bakcou e-bikes are designed to provide excellent handling characteristics, ensuring a stable and controlled riding experience.

Read also: What is the difference between a regular e-bike and a speed e-bike? And, is it legal to derestrict electric bicycle speed?

The Storm, for instance, features wider handlebars compared to traditional electric fat bikes, resembling the stability and control of an eMTB. This design enhances maneuverability, making it suitable for a variety of terrains.

Ride experience, comfort, and ergonomics

Many Bakcou e-bikes, including the Storm, feature full suspension setups to absorb bumps and enhance rider comfort. The Storm utilizes a Rockshox-equipped rear suspension, effectively reducing impacts and providing a smoother ride on rough terrain.

Bakcou pays attention to rider comfort and ergonomics. The e-bikes have ergonomic handlebar grips, wide stance pedals for enhanced foot grip, and saddles designed for comfort during long rides. These elements contribute to a more enjoyable riding experience.

Bakcou e-bikes excel in all-terrain performance, allowing riders to conquer various landscapes. Whether deep sand, snow, rutted double track, or backcountry trails, these e-bikes are specifically engineered to handle challenging off-road conditions. 

The powerful motors, sturdy frames, and robust components make Bakcou e-bikes well-suited for adventurous riders seeking versatile and capable electric bikes.

Technology and Features

Bakcou models, including the Storm, Mule, Flatlander, Mav3, Kodiak, and Scout, incorporate innovative features that set them apart in the e-bike market. 

One standout feature is the integration of torque sensors. Torque sensors detect pedal rotation speed and adjust the motor’s power assistance accordingly, providing riders with a seamless and natural riding experience that matches their effort with the motor’s support.

Other than that, there’s nothing else worth mentioning about its models’ technological features. The integrated Bafang display monitor is similar to your average e-bike in showing essential parameters like distance, speed, battery level, etc. 

Read also: Front, mid-drive, or rear e-bike motor. Which one to choose? And, What are the differences between rotation and torque sensors?

Safety-wise, we need to look at a prime example, such as the Mule. It prioritizes safety with its compliance with e-bike laws by allowing power adjustment, providing control and stability through wide handlebars, and featuring hydraulic disc brakes with a motor kill switch for quick stops.

These safety features ensure a secure and enjoyable riding experience, especially in challenging terrains.

Customer Reviews and Reputation

The overwhelmingly positive feedback of models like the Mule underscores the relative success of Bakcou as a whole. The reviews are concise, much like most, but many rate the company with 5 stars out of 5.

According to a review by Electric Bike Report, Bakcou’s e-bikes, particularly the popular Mule model, have garnered high customer praise. Riders have commended the Mule’s exceptional handling and powerful performance.

The review highlights the reliability of the 9-speed Shimano Alivio drivetrain and the stopping power of Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. They affirm that Bakcou’s e-bikes are versatile and well-suited for off-road and utility applications.

The same can be said for the customer service reviews, really. The brand offers excellent after-sales support, with customers highlighting the proactive help provided by their staff. 

Pricing and Value for Money

Bakcou‘s e-bikes may have a higher price point, but they are worth every penny. Just check out the customer feedback – they love the value they’re getting!

These e-bikes come packed with powerful motors, robust construction, and clever design choices (particularly for hunting/outdoor enthusiasts) that ensure top performance and long-lasting reliability.

Sure, you might find cheaper alternatives, but let’s face it – cheap doesn’t always mean quality, even in the e-bike world.

Bakcou delivers exceptional value with e-bikes that can conquer any terrain and carry heavy loads effortlessly. The meticulous attention to detail, advanced technology, and overall craftsmanship make Bakcou e-bikes a wise investment. 

Warranty, Trial Period, Shipping

 All Bakcou e-bikes come with a manufacturer’s warranty lasting one year from the day you receive your bike. This warranty protects against manufacturing defects in material or workmanship. To activate the warranty, you need to register your e-bike within 30 days of receiving it.

The warranty covers key components such as the lithium-ion battery, frame, motor, controller, wiring harness, and LCD display. However, it’s important to note that the warranty does not cover damage caused by improper charging, improper maintenance, water damage, normal wear, or misuse.

Read also: Are electric bikes dangerous? What are e-bike risks? And, How safe are electric bikes?

For the first 30 days after receiving your bike, Bakcou provides comprehensive coverage for components like suspension, brakes, handlebars, pedals, and more. During this period, Bakcou will cover parts, shipping, and labor. After 30 days, the customer is responsible for shipping costs.

Is There a Trial Period Available?

None is being offered, at least in the conventional sense. Riders can take part in the 30-day Risk-Free Purchase Program, though.  

The Program ensures that if you’re unsatisfied with your Bakcou e-bike or e-scooter or decide you want a different model, Bakcou offers a no-hassle exchange or full refund, excluding shipping charges. To qualify for an exchange or full refund, the e-bike must be in new condition with less than 10 miles (15 km) on the odometer.

What Countries Does Bakcou Ship To?

The brand doesn’t make it clear whether they ship internationally. At present, it only has dealers in the US and Canada. 

Pros and Cons

A few words in conclusion

Bakcou is a brand that combines sustainability and adventure, offering durable, efficient, versatile, and affordable electric bikes. Their comprehensive warranty reflects their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, and they have all the feedback to back it up.

Is Bakcou a good e-bike brand to buy? Absolutely, for the reasons already mentioned above. In conclusion, if you’re seeking a reliable and robust e-bike brand for backcountry exploration and off-road adventures, Bakcou is an excellent choice. Their e-bikes deliver exceptional performance, durability, and value for money.