Ford Bronco eBike: Style and Nostalgia Collide
There’s a growing trend in the electric bike market: major car manufacturers are branching out into e-bikes. One of the latest examples is the Ford Bronco eBike, a model that immediately grabs attention. With its motocross-inspired design, it’s hard to miss, turning heads from casual observers to experienced bike mechanics.
Design and Appearance
The Bronco eBike certainly looks the part. Its aerodynamic seat suspended over the back wheel and a robust aluminum frame give it the appearance of a motocross bike. The integrated cockpit, featuring an analog speedometer, and an enormous 2000-lumen headlight contribute a car-like feel. However, with a 190 x 50 mm rear-coil shock and Pirelli Scorpion Enduro tires, it also feels reminiscent of an enduro mountain bike. This combination sparks curiosity about how it actually rides.
Performance and Features
The Bronco eBike boasts a 750-watt motor, generating 85 newton meters of torque, housed in the rear hub. It provides four power modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Baja—the latter likely hinting at the bike’s intended use on dirt trails and dunes.
Class II vs. Class III
The Bronco comes in both Class II and Class III versions. The tested model was a Class II bike, which means it combines pedal assist with a throttle, allowing the rider to control the speed without pedaling. Class II bikes have a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour. The speedometer on this model, however, goes as high as 40 mph.
With a 750 watt-hour battery integrated inside the bike’s frame, it promises a 60-mile range under ideal conditions. These specs are comparable to other enduro-style e-bikes. However, some competitors are lighter, with a higher torque rating.
Sizing Considerations
A significant drawback is the bike’s one-size-fits-all frame. Advertised to accommodate riders from 5′ 4” to 6′ 5”, it felt less than ideal to test riders. At 5′ 9”, pedaling felt cramped, with knees nearly touching the chest. However, using the throttle alone offered a fun experience, especially when riding in a more reclined position.
The Ride Experience
While the Bronco eBike is visually appealing, its performance has some limitations. A throttle-only ride on a Class II bike offers a top speed of 20 mph. The battery life diminishes quickly, especially on city streets, where the test ride lost a quarter of its charge in less than an hour. The cold weather conditions also challenged the battery’s performance.
Who Is This Bike For?
The ideal user might be someone shorter than 5′ 9”, allowing for a more comfortable pedaling experience and extended battery life. Another likely buyer is a Ford Bronco enthusiast who appreciates the branding and design. The bike seems best suited for locations, such as south of the border, where it can be ridden off-road on sandy backroads.
Despite its stylish design and nod to nostalgia, the Ford Bronco eBike has some significant drawbacks. The one-size-fits-all frame may not suit all riders, and the throttle-only experience is somewhat limited. Ultimately, the Bronco eBike is more about the experience than raw performance.
The Sweepstakes
Through June, those who buy or test ride any Ford Bronco eBike can enter to win a $40,000 Ford Bronco Big Bend Edition.
