The Schwinn electric bicycle comes in 8 different models. All models share a front wheel mounted 250 Watt motor.
All Schwinn Ebikes have similar features. The battery packs are Schwinn "plug n drive" which can be simply plugged into the Schwinn bike rack. No external wires are required. This is actually a good idea for rain, mud, and snow, and security.
The frames are aluminum. Some models are double butted, which is good since the motors are mounted on front aluminum forks. Don't do this yourself.
The batteries are by Toshiba using their SCiB technology. This pack is also called Super Charge ion Battery technology. The battery pack weighs in at about 12 pounds. This is about the same weight as a plain (no case) prismatic 15 AH LiFePO4 battery.
Selected Schwinn EBike Specifications and suggested retail prices
This is perhaps theoretically true, but practically not quite so useful. As it turns out, in the real world there are many variables at work. There are system losses, mechanical efficiencies, low tires, wind, hills, overweight riders, out of shape riders, and cold temperatures. All of these items contribute to power losses by the time the tire hits the road.
The bottom line: the 180/250 Watt motor may be fine for nice day, flat terrain, lighter weight riders in good shape. However, if there are any more challenging conditions, these motors will be equally challenged, and likely to be under powered.
It looks like Schwinn noticed the under design of the motor, and last year produced two new models (at least) with 250 Watt continuous, and 450 Watt peak power motors. These are the Tailwind, and the Searcher e8. Note the corresponding price increase.
Notice that the (published) mileage figures have decreased with the new models. This is due to increased power consumption, and more realistic reporting. Although possible under ideal conditions, 60 miles range from 1/4 of a kilowatt of power seems incredibly optimistic. In any case, it is interesting to notice that 1/4 kWh is the energy in only 1 (US) ounce (30ml) of gasoline!
To conclude, if you want a well built ebike that will assist you for well tempered commutes, and do not mind the premium price, then the Schwinn ebike is for you. If you need more performance, we suggest an upgrade to a larger motor, or DIY Ebike.
Schwinn Searcher e8 Electric Bicycle
Schwinn eBikes come with a 110V, 8.4 Amp charger. The 10 Amp Hour battery pack can be quick charged in 30 minutes.
Schwinn motors are front wheel mounted. There are 2 types: 180 Watts contiunous, 250 Watts peak power and another rated at 250 Watts continuous, and 450 Watts peak. The 250/450 is new in the last few years.
Schwinn bicycles are incredibly well built, no doubt about that. We love our Schwinn Cruisers, and the Schwinn Paramount is a classic racer, not to mention the Continental, Le Tour and host of other Schwinn products over the years.
Schwinn electric bicycles are no exception and according to many reviews seem to quite well built. However, Schwinn has been known to mention that 180 Watts is plenty of power since this is more than the average cyclist produces.
