After testing dozens of e-bikes, the Heybike Alpha might be the one I’d most want to keep. With its fat tires, torque-sensing mid-drive motor, and sleek frame, it delivers a surprisingly smooth and natural ride for $1,699—making it a compelling choice for both off-road exploration and everyday urban commuting.
Smooth Power, Smart Design
The Alpha is Heybike’s first e-bike to feature its own Galaxy eDrive system, pairing a 500W mid-drive motor with a 680Wh battery. This setup offers great power delivery with a natural pedaling feel—especially with the torque sensor, which responds more intuitively than typical hub motors. Combined with an 8-speed Shimano shifter, the bike easily adapts to hilly climbs or flat city streets.
Even on the lowest pedal assist setting, the Alpha provided plenty of torque, and I rarely needed more. Top speeds reach 28 mph with pedaling, though throttle-only rides cap out at 20 mph. Notably, the throttle only kicks in once you’re moving above 5 mph, which may frustrate throttle-heavy riders.
Impressive Battery Life & Utility
Heybike claims up to 60 miles per charge, and based on my rides, that seems conservative. The regenerative braking adds to battery efficiency, possibly accounting for the slow battery drain during testing. Add a sturdy rear rack and 400-pound payload capacity, and it’s easy to see why this could be a great cargo option for delivery riders too.
The Alpha handles well across terrain, thanks to 26×4” fat tires and a front suspension fork that softens even the roughest potholes and curbs. At 71 pounds, it’s not featherlight, but it’s more manageable than similarly specced cargo bikes.
What Needs Work
Not everything was perfect. Setup required more effort than expected, and assembling it via a QR-code manual wasn’t ideal. I needed a bike shop to correct my handlebar placement, and a poorly assembled battery latch led to ongoing issues with the cover popping off during rides. The horn was comically loud—effective, but too aggressive for casual signaling.
The accompanying app was underwhelming. It offered basic features like headlight control and ride data, but lacked more valuable tools like GPS tracking or anti-theft alerts. Also, if you’re picky about aesthetics, your color choices are limited to white (step-through) or black (step-over).
Final Verdict
The Heybike Alpha offers exceptional value for the price. You get mid-drive performance, long range, and a rugged build without breaking the bank. However, the setup process, minor build quality concerns, and limited tech features might be drawbacks for some. If you’re handy—or don’t mind a quick trip to the bike shop—it’s one of the most satisfying rides under $2,000 today.
