Last Updated on August 1, 2023 by Igor Karni
Himiway, a popular American e-bike brand, introduces the Rambler, one of the latest electric commuter bike models. For the first time, one of its electric bike models is equipped with tires that are less than 4 inches, which is apt for city roads. As 4 inches can sometimes feel heavy for many riders, the Rambler is great for city riders.
Table of Contents
Himiway Rambler is a step-thru commuter e-bike available in three builds and at three price points. All the models are designed well, offering excellent on-the-road performance, making them dependable for daily errands and city use.
Himiway Rambler: Design and Build Quality
Rambler from Himiway is an electric commuter bike designed for the comfort of city riders. Two unique aspects reaffirm this – first, the tires are narrower at 27.5“ x 2.4” and not typical fat tires, and second, it has a step-thru design offering easy accessibility.
The frame is hydroformed 6061 aluminum. The battery is integrated within the frame. The presence of a suspension fork makes it easy to ride the Rambler, be it on paved roads, potholed roads, bumps, etc. All the models are recommended for riders between the 5’2″ ~ 6’3″ height range.
Rambler also comes with a rear rack and fenders. There’s an integrated brake light. The colors available for this e-bike currently are mint green, Himi Grey, and pearl white.
The handlebar is ergonomically designed with rubber/foam grips with a ridged pattern.
Read also: How to select the best commuter e-bike (with examples)? – also in this article. And, how much does a commuter e-bike cost?
Himiway Rambler: Performance and Ride Experience
Himiway introduced its electric commuter bike model in early 2023.
The best part is that there are three versions of this model – Basic, Upgraded, and Premium. Visually, all three are the same. The difference between the three is the motor system, speed train, and disc brakes.
Before discussing each version, here’s a comparative table highlighting the main features.
| Features | Basic | Upgraded | Premium |
| Motor | Hub Motor | Hub Motor | Mid-Drive Motor |
| Motor Power | 500W brushless gear motor | 500W brushless gear motor | 500W Bafang motor |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 62 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Freewheel | Shimano 7-speed gear shift system | Shimano 9-speed gear shift system | Shimano 9-speed gear shift system |
| Gearing | Shimano- 14-28T BROWN/BK | Shimano- 13-32T BROWN/BK | Shimano- 13-32T BROWN/BK |
| Battery | 48V 15Ah LG Lithium battery | 48V 15Ah LG Lithium battery | 48V 15Ah LG Lithium battery |
| Range | 55 miles (88 km) | 55 miles (88 km) | 55 miles (88 km) |
| Charger | US standard 3.0 A smart charger | US standard 3.0 A smart charger | US standard 3.0 A smart charger |
| Recharge Time | 5 hours | 5 hours | 5 hours |
| Pedal Assist System | 0 – 5 levels | 0 – 5 levels | 0 – 5 levels |
| Throttle | Thumb | Thumb | Thumb |
| Disc brakes | Mechanical | Hydraulic | Hydraulic |
| Suspension System | Alloy front suspension fork with lockout and adjustment | Alloy front suspension fork with lockout and adjustment | Alloy front suspension fork with lockout and adjustment |
Motor Power and responsiveness
All three models are equipped with a 500W motor each. While the Basic and the Upgraded models have a hub motor, each producing a torque of 62Nm, the Premium model has a mid-drive motor producing a torque of 120Nm. This makes the latter more responsive than the other two.
Battery Capacity and Range
The models come equipped with a 48V 15Ah LG lithium battery with a range of 55 miles (88 km). This means that all three models can go up to 55 miles (88 km) easily with a full charge. It takes about 5 hours to charge the battery fully.
LG batteries are known for their durability, lasting between 2.5 and 7 years. Therefore, Rambler e-bikes can go a long way!
Speed and Acceleration Capabilities
Between the three, the top speed remains about 20 mph (32 kph). Reaching the maximum speed with the lower two models will take time, whereas in the Premium model, due to higher torque. You can also climb steep slopes with the Premium Rambler.
Handling and Maneuverability
The maneuverability of the Himiway Rambler scores top points because, in city traffic, you can move faster than other vehicles. Additionally, you can use any of these three models to drive on bike lines and narrow spaces during traffic jams and congestion.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Himiway Rambler is an electric commuter bike that can navigate through different city road conditions. All three models come with front suspension forks that are sound shock absorbers, facilitating comfortable rides.
Moreover, every version of the Rambler comes equipped with cushioned Selle Royale Saddle seats, well-fitted with most pelvic bone sizes, adding to the convenience. The saddle height is ideal, too.
The models have ergonomic grips that help when riding long distances.
Suspension system
The Basic and Upgraded models of Rambler are equipped with 180MM mechanical disc brakes, and the Premium model is fitted with hydraulic disc brakes.
Additionally, the front fork suspension system with lockout and adjustment makes things even more comfortable, convenient, controlled, and safe.
Hydraulic brakes offer smooth and frictionless working, enabling the electric commuter bike to brake with considerably less force. Acceleration is better, too, with these brakes. Thus, of the three, Premium Rambler certainly offers a better riding experience each time.
Pedal Assist Modes and Controller
As mentioned previously, Himiway Rambler models have five levels of pedal-assist modes from Level 1 to Level 5. All three e-bikes have a similar control cluster system with buttons to switch the motor and PAS level on and off.
Read also: Himiway Cobra Pro review: here is why it could be the best long-range fat tire e-bike. And, Himiway Zebra vs. RadRover 6 Plus review: two all-terrain e-bikes compared.
Himiway Rambler: Technology and Features
| Features | Basic | Upgraded | Premium |
| Display | LCD display with USB charging | LCD display with USB charging | LCD display with USB charging |
| LCD | Black and White | Black and White | Colored |
| Tail Light | Integrated Taillight | Integrated Taillight | Integrated Taillight |
| Front Light | Front Light | Front Light | Front Light |
| Brake Light | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fenders | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rack | Rear | Rear | Rear |
| Kickstand | Heavy duty aluminum | Heavy-duty aluminum | Heavy-duty aluminum |
| Brakes | Aluminum alloy grip levers with a switch to cut off the motor | Aluminum alloy grip levers with a switch to cut off the motor | Aluminum alloy grip levers with a switch to cut off the motor |
Display Panel and User Interface
The Display Panels on all three models of Rambler show mileage data and keeps the rider informed about different details of the riding state.
However, the LCD differs for Basic, Upgraded, and Premium.
Basic and Upgraded versions with the hub motor have black-and-white water-resistant LCD. Also, the LCD in these models can switch on and off the automatic headlights. The Premium model with a mid-drive motor has a high-end colored Bafang LCD.
Integrated sensors
Himiway uses cadence sensors for all three models. Thus, unlike torque sensors that measure the force on the pedals, the Rambler electric commuter bike measures the speed at which you pedal and accordingly offers assistance. Notably, the sensors are responsive, though you may need to use them often to get used to them.
Lighting systems
The models come with integrated brake lights, which turn on automatically when the brakes are applied. The Himiway logo is highlighted when the brake light is on. Then there is the 48V 500LM spotlight with R and D luminosity, which are ⅕ times brighter than LEDs, for added safety during night rides. The Basic and Upgraded models have automatic headlights that can be operated via the LCD.
Safety features
The brake lights, headlights, and spotlights help the rider ride conveniently in the dark. All the models come with the requisite reflectors. The Front Fork Alloy suspension adds to the safety aspect.
Additional accessories or add-ons
All the models of Rambler are fitted with a rear rack each. There are fenders and kickstands, making all the versions highly dependable.
Himiway Rambler: Battery and Charging
Battery Type and Capacity
The Rambler electric commuter bikes are equipped with lithium batteries from LG. Each battery has a 48V 15Ah capacity.
Charging Time and Methods
The batteries take about 5 hours each to charge. The charger is a US standard 3.0 smart charger. Since the battery is integrated, it can be charged within the e-bike or taken out. All you need to do to take it out is to unlock it using the special key.
Range Estimation Accuracy
When the battery is fully charged, you can drive up to 55 km in one go.
Real-world performance and efficiency
In real-time, reaching the range of 55 km, as mentioned by the brand, may be a bit of a challenge. In most cases, the battery would drain completely by the 45 km distance if the rider is heavy. For a lighter rider, the range of 55 km might be real.
Read also: Is Himiway a good e-bike brand to buy? Brand and models review.
Himiway Rambler: Pros and Cons
The Strengths and Advantages
The Rambler is a true electric commuter bike, best meant for paved or gravel roads through city traffic. The 500W motor produces the ideal torque for within-the-town rides, and the battery with a range of up to 55 miles (88 km) also supports ably. The Premium produces more torque for a few off-road drives.
The step-thru frame is a big advantage, making the Rambler accessible to people of all genders. There are some branded components like Bafang, Shimano, LG, etc., so you can expect good performance on the road. This is true for all three Rambler models.
All three deliver on the dotted lines with integrated lights, sensors, LCD, and additional accessories. The fact that the brand has three price points helps, too. The Basic is available at $1,299, while the Upgraded model is priced at $1,499. The Premium Rambler is available at $2,199.
Limitations & Areas for Improvement
- The thinner tires are not too impressive or ideal. These are not poor performers on city roads, but they could have been better.
- The motors of the Basic and Upgraded versions again could have been better because the performance can be sluggish. The Premium version, of course, is quite impressive.
- All three electric commuter bikes are pretty heavy. The Basic Rambler weighs 56 pounds (25.4 kg), and the other two weigh 61 pounds (27.6 kg) each. So, if you live in a high-rise apartment without elevators, the Rambler models can be stressful.
Core e-bike Specs
| Features | Basic | Upgraded | Premium |
| Motor | 500W Hub Motor | 500W Hub Motor | 500W Mid-Drive Motor |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 62 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Gear Shift System | Shimano 7-speed | Shimano 9-speed | Shimano 9-speed |
| Battery | 48V 15Ah LG Lithium battery | 48V 15Ah LG Lithium battery | 48V 15Ah LG Lithium battery |
| Pedal Assist System | 1 – 5 levels | 1 – 5 levels | 1 – 5 levels |
| Range | 55 miles (88 km) | 55 miles (88 km) | 55 miles (88 km) |
| Suspension System | Front Fork | Front Fork | Front Fork |
| LCD | Black and White | Black and White | Colored |
| Total Payload | 330 lbs (150 kg) | 330 lbs (150 kg) | 330 lbs (150 kg) |
| Display | LCD with USB charging | LCD with USB charging | LCD with USB charging |
| Recommended Height | 5’2” – 6’4” | 5’2” – 6’4” | 5’2” – 6’4” |
| Weight | 56 lbs (25.4 kg) | 61 lbs (27.6 kg) | 61 lbs (26.6 kg) |
| Controller | 48V/ 18A | 48V/ 18A | 48V/ 18A |
| Charger | US standard 3.0 A smart charger | US standard 3.0 A smart charger | US standard 3.0 A smart charger |
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Overall, Himiway Rambler is a good electric commuter bike with some great features, especially considering the price points of all three versions. Of course, the Premium Rambler is the best out of the lot, but it comes at a higher price. The Basic and Upgraded versions are best for beginners.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Himiway has done a good job of developing new electric bikes. The Rambler is not a fat tire e-bike, which makes it good for city rides. The step-thru frame makes it versatile.
The 500W motor hub/mid is powerful, though the torque from the Basic and Upgraded versions is comparatively less than that of the Premium. That makes the Premium Rambler a bit stronger and more dependable. The LG lithium batteries for all three models are power-driven with a range of 55 miles (88 km) each.
For those with budget constraints but want a good branded electric commuter bike, the Basic and the Upgraded models are good to go. But, if money is not a problem, the best choice is the Premium Rambler. If you are looking for an electric bike for city rides, the new Rambler from Himiway is a good choice.
Read also: Why Himiway Stands Out in the E-bike Industry? A Comprehensive Analysis of Product, Brand, and Service.
Igor is a sustainable mobility and green energy advocate. His mission for Easy E-biking is to help make electric cycling simple, practical, and fun. Follow him on Facebook and LinkedIn.
