The Xiaomi HiMo Z20 is a well lauded bicycle. While Xiaomi is quite the influencer throughout Asia with smartphones and IoT, they also have gained a significant foothold within the electric mobility industry with their brand of influential scooters and pedal-assisted electric bicycles, which are all mostly produced by satellite companies under the umbrella of the main company. We review the HiMo Z20 below and our experience of it on Irish roads.
We also stock the HiMo Z20 here.
Xiaomi HiMo Z20 – Specs at a Glance
- Water Resistance – IP54
- Max Rider Weight – 100 Kg
- Weight – 21.6 Kg
- Range – 80 km
- Speed – 25km/h
Xiaomi HiMo Z20 – Features
- Very Comfortable Ride
- Cost Effective
- Full Folding
- Good Range
Review of the Himo Z20
Recently the Himo Z20 was introduced to this incredible line. Made available during the summer and only available on YouPin at first, this new eBike promises to bring with it all of the advantages and pros of the Himo C20 as well as some additional features that are sure to please. This folding model features a 250w motor in addition to a battery capable of 80km of use and double disc brakes.
As opposed to other models on the market produced by the company, the Himo Z20 comes in more compact packaging even with it already being mostly assembled, all that is required is the seat and pedals. That is all required for a fully assembled bicycle out of the box.
In addition to the bicycle and the minimal parts that need to be attached, included is a charger with an Italian socket that has the ability to be connected to the central pillar, and the plug is safely covered by a rubber cap. Also included are two mudguards, one available in plastic and one in metal, which you may or may not decide to install based upon your personal preferences.
If you have been considering the Himo C20, you will not find that many differences in the Himo z20. The Xiaomi folding ebikes features a solid aluminum alloy structure and a manageable weight of 21.6 Kg. The body is foldable in the traditional manner of the company as well as foldable handlebars with pedals. This particular model features no support for the HiMo Z20 to be placed when folded, which is a missed opportunity. However, the cables are all well hidden in the frame and the bicycle saddle is able to integrate with an inflator which allows additional pressure for the tires. All in all, it is a pretty spectacular setup!
While this is not the lightest folding ebikes on the market, it is quite compact and easy enough to bring on public transportation and place in the trunk of the car.
While the wheels are 20″, they are still considerably thin and make this bike somewhat unsuitable for traveling on dirt roads or cobblestones. The Himo Z20 is designed for the streets of the city and rides quite well even in rain due to its IPX7 certification. The brakes are a top-of-the-line front and rear double mechanical disc, which can be fully adjusted.
The HiMo Z20 features a decent LED headlight as well as a rear light which unfortunately is not controlled by the onboard computer. It functions solely by keys that are directly integrated into the light itself.
Engine and Gearbox
The Himo Z20 is the typical Xiaomi 250w that we have come to expect with their brand of ebikess. It is a decent engine that is able to deliver a speed of 25 Km/h and is able to work in both pedal-assisted mode as well as full electricity. Always remember that is it illegal in Italy to use an accelerator on an eBike. It should be noted that this particular model does seem to have a bit of an issue going uphill and with a maximum weight of 100kg, the HiMo Z20 might truly struggle with a full weight.
The Xiaomi Himo Z20 features a light translucent black and white display as well as backlighting, which to be honest is not the most attractive aspect of the Xiaomi Himo Z20. However, it is easy to read and offered great visibility in all lighting conditions. It is possible to choose between three assistance models of Eco, Mid, and High with the respective speeds of 16, 20, and 25 Km / h. You will want to keep in mind that the accelerator does not work while in Eco mode and the assistance will need to be adjusted according to the speed sensor, though there is very reliable gear adjustment. The engine will start after two turns of the pedal and due to the fact that there is no torque sensor, it remains constant. However, there is an interesting aspect to all of this. Consider the fact that there are two assistance modes to help the electric motor, it becomes necessary to use an accelerator or you will need to use your own legs. That is absolutely absurd.
However, you are offered an incredible Shimano 6-speed that is fast and able to be controlled with one simple click switch that is on the right side of the handlebar, directly next to the accelerator. This offers reliable gear adjustment. However, in this case, the Himo Z20 is integrated directly with a right handlebar grip.
HiMo Z20 eBike Battery and Autonomy
The HiMo Z20 ebikes features a lithium-based battery that allows you to travel an average of 80 km with little pedal-assistance, while in full electric mode you will get about 50 km and about 500 charge cycles. However, the autonomy is based on a number of factors which may result in about 27 km with full assistance and about 50 km with minimal assistance, and a measly 20 km with the accelerator. However, there are a number of cities that have many hills to climb, so your results are going to vary.
It will take an estimated 5 hours for a complete charge with the external power supply. Unfortuntlkey, the cable is a tad bit too short for its own good. The battery pack can be removed through the efforts of a key and be recharged separate of the chassis.
Road Testing the HiMo Z20
Once you are fully familiar with the torque sensor and have a good understanding of the pedal assist, the Himo Z20 is an absolute pleasure to drive and more comfortable than you would expect. The wheels of the HiMo Z20 are sturdy and always make you feel as though you are fully grounded regardless of the condition of the road and even if you like to ride completely pedal free.
The shock absorbers do seem to be a bit lacking, however, due to the soft seat and exceptional tires, there is more than enough cushioning to keep you comfortable in the city, especially in the casual riding cool mode or in sporty dynamic mode.
The tow disc brakes are always going to have you prepared for shortstops in a safe and effective manner.
In conclusion, the Himo Z20 is an incredible ride that is a genuine pleasure in the city and should guarantee the safest and most comfortable ride you have ever had on an ebikess with a helmet on.
The world is changing and vehicles are becoming obsolete on a daily basis. We are all much more concerned with the environment than we have ever been. Now is the time to consider an ebikes to get to work, run errands or simple fun in the city. It is never too early to start making changes that are going to have a positive impact on the environment around you and you can do it in sporty dynamic mode or casual riding cool mode while you ride completely pedal free. The Himo Z20 is an efficient and cost-effective way to make a small change in the carbon footprint you leave behind on a daily basis. Take charge of your life and start the day biking!
Final Thoughts on the HiMo Z20
In conclusion, the Himo Z20 is an incredible ride that is a genuine pleasure in the city and should guarantee the safest and most comfortable ride you have ever had on an eBike
The world is changing and vehicles are becoming obsolete on a daily basis. We are all much more concerned with the environment than we have ever been. Now is the time to consider an ebikes to get to work, run errands or simple fun in the city. It is never too early to start making changes that are going to have a positive impact on the environment around you. The Himo Z20 is an efficient and cost-effective way to make a small change in the carbon footprint you leave behind on a daily basis. Take charge of your life and start the day biking!
