My Fun Ride with the Rattan LM 750W: Stories from the Road
Ebike Education

My Fun Ride with the Rattan LM 750W: Stories from the Road

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Unboxing: Like Christmas Morning!

When the Rattan LM 750W arrived at my doorstep in Portland, I felt like a kid on Christmas morning. The bike was packed securely in expanding foam, so it arrived without a scratch. This attention to detail hinted at the quality I was about to experience.
Opening the box, I found the bike nearly fully assembled. The sleek all-black design with a semi-gloss finish and shiny logo immediately caught my eye. While other color options are available, the black variant was the winner for me. The bike’s compact size—just 20 inches for the wheels—made it perfect for my urban lifestyle.

Fold and Go: Design and Build Quality

The LM 750W’s compact 20-inch wheels and multiple folding points make it super portable. It fits easily into my car, and despite its folding capability, the bike feels stable and sturdy when unfolded—a critical factor for any e-bike. I remember one particular Sunday when I decided to take the bike on a road trip to Mount Hood. It fit perfectly into the trunk of my Subaru Outback, alongside my camping gear. The compact design was a game-changer for my outdoor adventures.
Folding and unfolding the bike is straightforward, though its 55-pound weight can make it awkward to carry when folded. The latches securing the folding sections are standard, but the unique plastic clips add reassurance that the bike won't accidentally fold during a ride. On a breezy afternoon ride through Portland’s Forest Park, the bike’s stability was evident as it handled the park’s winding paths with ease.

Getting Comfy: Adjustability and Comfort

Both the seat and handlebar heights are adjustable, catering to riders from 5’2” to 6’4”. As a 6’1” rider, I found the seat height just adequate. The adjustable handlebars, while a nice feature, might not be necessary for most users. During a ride around the Portland Waterfront, I found the adjustable seat and handlebars made for a comfortable ride. The bike handled the paved paths beautifully, and I barely felt the minor bumps along the way.

Gear Up: Components and Performance

The LM 750W is equipped with standard components for its price range. It features a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain that provides smooth shifting. Most of the time, I found myself using the higher gears, especially when utilizing the pedal assist on flat terrain.
The bike comes with front and rear mechanical disc brakes, which perform adequately at various speeds. While hydraulic brakes would have been a nice upgrade, the included mechanical brakes are sufficient for the bike's performance. On a ride through the hilly streets of San Francisco, the brakes held up well, providing the stopping power needed on those steep declines.

Screen Time: Display and Controls

The display is large, clear, and easy to read, even in bright sunlight. It provides essential information such as speed, distance, battery level, and riding mode. The unique feature of displaying current motor output adds an interesting touch, though it may not be particularly useful for most riders. One sunny afternoon, while riding through Forest Park, I appreciated how easy it was to read the display, even in direct sunlight. The information was clear, and the unique motor output feature was a fun detail to keep an eye on.

Need for Speed: Motor and Battery Performance

Powered by a 750-watt rear hub motor, the LM 750W can reach speeds close to 30 miles per hour. The acceleration is impressive, making it capable of tackling most city hills with ease. Riders can choose between pedal assist and a twist throttle, with the pedal assist engaging quickly with minimal pedal input.
The bike features six riding modes, including a zero mode for riding without pedal assistance. For me, mode 3 offers a balanced experience, allowing for comfortable speeds of around 20 miles per hour on flat terrain. The twist throttle is designed for quick takeoffs, though its placement may feel awkward for some users.

Battery Life: The Real Deal

The Rattan LM 750W is equipped with a 13 amp-hour battery, providing an estimated range of 17 miles at the highest pedal assist setting. While this is below the advertised range of 45 miles, it’s important to note that many manufacturers tend to overestimate performance figures.
Removing the battery can be cumbersome as the seat must be completely removed to access it. A significant concern is the mounting of the battery; the guide rail can become loose, which may cause the bike to turn off unexpectedly. This issue highlights a design flaw that could potentially damage the battery if not addressed. On a trip to the Oregon Coast, I experienced this issue firsthand. Mid-ride, the bike suddenly powered off. After a quick check, I realized the battery rail had come loose. It was a minor inconvenience, but it taught me to double-check the battery mount before setting out on any ride.

Nifty Extras: Unique Features

One noteworthy feature of the LM 750W is the rear seat, designed for carrying a passenger. While it includes metal footrests, the overall design feels more gimmicky than functional. A rear storage basket would be a more practical addition, allowing for better utility.
The 20-inch fat tires are a standout feature, providing stable all-terrain riding capabilities. They can be run at lower pressures for added cushioning, and the front suspension fork offers some shock absorption. However, the overall suspension system may not significantly enhance the ride quality, as the fat tires handle most bumps effectively.

Off the Beaten Path: Off-Road Fun

During testing, the LM 750W demonstrated competence on various terrains, including dirt trails and sand. While it may not be suited for extended off-road rides, it performs well for short detours. The bike's design makes it an appealing option for beach riding and casual off-road adventures. I took the bike for a spin along the trails of Mount St. Helens. The fat tires handled the dirt paths with ease, and the bike's stability on uneven terrain was impressive. It wasn't an off-road beast, but it was more than capable for a casual adventure.

Wrapping It Up: Final Thoughts

Overall, the Rattan LM 750W offers a solid riding experience with its combination of speed, stability, and portability. Despite some minor drawbacks, such as the battery mounting issue and the less-than-ideal rear seat feature, the bike generally delivers on its promises. It is a commendable option for those seeking a folding fat tire e-bike for various riding conditions.
If you're considering the Rattan LM 750W, it is a worthy investment that meets expectations for performance and quality. With its attractive design and functional features, it stands out in the competitive e-bike market. For those who prioritize speed, versatility, and portability, the Rattan LM 750W is definitely worth a closer look.
Happy riding!