Qronge Thunder E-Bike Test from the Teton Mountains | Photo Rich Goodwin Mountain Weekly News
In a market flooded with high-priced electric bikes, the Qronge Thunder E-Bike comes in as a compelling option for riders seeking power, utility, and remarkable value. Priced aggressively under $1,000, this Qronge fat tire e-bike packs a surprising punch, making it a top pick for budget-conscious commuters and adventurers alike.
We took it for a spin on the streets of Jackson, WY to find out how this beast performs.
What Kind of E-Bike is This?
The Qronge Thunder is a versatile, all-terrain fat-tire electric bike designed to handle a variety of riding conditions. Its robust frame, hefty 26×4″ inch tires, and powerful motor (1200w peak) make it well-suited for both commuting and light off-road excursions. With a focus on practicality, the Thunder comes loaded with additional accessories, positioning it as a comprehensive package for daily riders.
A Hefty Hauler with a High Capacity
Tipping the scales at 80lbs., the Qronge Thunder is undeniably a burly machine. This weight, while making it a challenge to load on a bike rack, contributes to a stable and planted feel on the road especially on dirt and gravel. What’s particularly impressive is its massive 400-pound payload capacity, making it a viable option for larger riders or for those looking to haul cargo or even put a friend on the back.
Sizing and Comfort
The Thunder is designed to accommodate riders from 5’4″ to 6’4″, though its geometry may feel more comfortable for those on the taller end of the spectrum.
One of its standout features is the comfortable, beach cruiser-style saddle that provides ample cushioning for longer rides. This focus on comfort is a welcome touch on a bike at this price point. Most people ride e-bikes for short distances, including myself to get so work, so I really liked the feel of sitting on this padded cruiser style saddle.
Motor and Performance
At the heart of the Thunder is a powerful motor with a peak output of 1200 watts. This brushless rear hub motor delivers strong acceleration and has the torque needed to tackle hills and varied terrain with some added power to cover the bikes weight. This Qronge E-Bike utilizes a cadence sensor, which provides a smooth and predictable pedaling experience. While it may not have the refined feel of a more expensive torque sensor, it performs reliably across its five pedal-assist levels.
For those moments when you don’t want to pedal, a right-hand thumb throttle is conveniently placed. During our testing, I was able to reach a top speed of 28 MPH, placing it firmly in the Class 3 e-bike category. However, it’s worth noting that the bike’s substantial weight means it takes a little longer to come to a complete stop, so riding with awareness is key.
Battery and Range
The Qronge Thunder is equipped with a battery that promises a total range of up to 70 miles on a single charge when using pedal assist. This range is reduced to approximately 40 miles when relying solely on the throttle, which is still a respectable distance for a bike in this class. The beach cruiser style seat allows for comfort on longer rides, but the perfect distance for this bike is under 10 miles. Think farmers markets, trips into town or the grocery store, or even some light off road laps.
Components and Accessories
To keep the price affordable, Qronge has opted for a more basic LCD display. While this screen is not as modern as some higher priced e-bikes, it’s functional and still get’s the job done. Even though it’s a bit on the smaller side.
Where the Thunder truly shines is in its cost. It comes bundled with several hundred dollars’ worth of accessories that are often sold separately. This includes a lock, a cellphone holder, a side-view mirror, and a water bottle holder, making it ready to ride straight out of the box. And at this price the bike’s resale value won’t depreciate much.
Qronge Thunder Brakes
The bike is fitted with mechanical disc brakes both front and rear. While they provide adequate stopping power, they lack the refined feel and immediate bite of hydraulic disc brakes found on more premium models. I would like to see this bike upgraded to the higher end brakes to better handle the weight of the bike when coming to a stop especially with such a powerful motor on board.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional value at under $1,000
- Powerful 1200W peak motor
- High payload capacity of 400 lbs
- Comes with a generous accessory package
- Comfortable beach cruiser-style seat
Cons:
- Heavy at 80 lbs
- Budget-level components
- Mechanical disc brakes are less powerful than hydraulic alternatives
- Cadence sensor is less refined than a torque sensor
Overall Impression
The Qronge Thunder makes a compelling case for itself as a high-value, do-it-all electric bike. This Qronge E-Bike comes with a powerful motor and impressive cargo capacity make it a practical choice for daily commuting and running errands. While it may not boast the most premium components, the Qronge Thunder Fat Tire Electric Bike’s (sub-$1,000 price point) and a generous array of included accessories make it an attractive option for riders on a budget. If you can look past its weight and are seeking a powerful and versatile e-bike without a hefty price tag, the Qronge Thunder is certainly worth taking a test ride.
Qronge Discount Coupon Code – MWNQR50
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