The EZ Pedaler C300 is an entry level ebike that delivers average performance but includes a broad range of features. It’s got three gears, an average sized motor, lights, optional fenders and a unique pedal assist on/off switch that lets you use the throttle power in conjunction with pedal assist. The price is in line with similar bikes from other leading brands and the quality is decent but will wear out faster if used in bumpier off road settings.
The C300 name on this bike signifies how powerful the front hub motor is, 300 watts. The C stands for “cruiser” and signals the relaxed upright positioning and high top bar. If you’re a little smaller or are looking for a step-through model then check out the T300.
The 300 watt motor on this bike is geared which allows it to provide extra torque for hills and windier conditions but this should not be considered a “strong” bike. If you’re a larger rider I recommend upgrading to the 350 model or a 500 watt option from another brand like Pedego. The drawback of geared hub motors is that there are more moving parts inside which creates friction when coasting and can also wear out faster over time. Even on lower powered motors however, the front fork mounting design is a bit less structurally sound than a rear mounted equivalent. To address this, EZ Pedaler has installed a torque plate designed to handle the added stresses of motor force. It’s silver and you can see it in the picture below:
When you do end up in tougher riding conditions with this bike the pedal assist mode significantly improves climbing power and range. Basically, there is a sensor built into the bottom bracket that detects pedal arm movement and signals to the motor to kick in and “assist”. It gives your thumb a break from pushing on the throttle and it also allows you to compliment the electric motor with your own muscular input.
The motor on the EZ Pedaler C300 is built right into the front hub which is atypical for ebikes because it requires a stronger, burlier fork and can be more prone to spinning out. Most ebikes put the motor on the rear wheel because the frame is reinforced there and designed to handle rider derived input via pedaling. The downside of rear-hub designs is the complexity of adding a hub where there is already a set of gears and derailleur. One benefit to the front-hub design is that it balances out the weight of the bike more evenly from front to rear and makes servicing tires easier. In the case of the C300, it also allowed EZ Pedaler to use an internally geared rear hub which makes shifting from standstill possible and decreases the length of the chain which in turn makes it harder for the chain to fall off.
In addition to pedal assist mode, this bike features a small thumb throttle on the right handlebar. One of the coolest features of this bike is the pedal assist on/off switch which allows you to use both the throttle and pedal assist at the same time. This works very well when you’re pedaling but have to stop for alight or stop sign and then want to get back up to speed. Just use the throttle then transition back to pedaling with pedal assist! Most other bikes require you to choose one or the other and I find that distracting.
The battery powering this bike sits mid-frame and low to the ground which is great for handling and maneuvering at racks and other non-riding situations like walking. It’s also completely removable but requires you to take the seat off. Many other electric bikes mount their battery packs high up on a rear rack making them less stable. The C300 battery is made with Lithium-ion which is lightweight and powerful. It also gets many more charge cycles before wearing out than Lead acid or Lithium polymer types. The battery is enclosed in an aluminum shell and protected by the bicycle frame tubing on all sides. It also locks to the bike which is nice but requires the key to be inserted when riding which is a little annoying to me because the key can jingle around or get bumped. The battery delivers 36 volts of power and 12 amp hours of capacity, providing about 25 miles per charge in non pedal assist mode.
The EZ Pedaler C300 is a well rounded bike in terms of performance but it also offers a lot of comfort. The larger balloon style tires smooth out cracks and bumps and the cushy sprung seat and upright handlebars position riders with their “heads up” and make riding with a backpack less uncomfortable. What really sets the C300 apart from other cruiser style bikes is that it actually has a front shock absorber built in! While this does add weight to the bike, it also makes it easier to ride over longer distances or for those with back and neck pain. I also love the fact that this bike has built in water bottle mounts. It’s the little things…
Other creature comforts on this bike include built in lights (the rear one requires 2 AA batteries but the front one runs off of the main pack). There’s a nice chain guard and fenders to keep pants clean and dry and the internal hub is easy to use and maintain vs. a chain derailleur system which requires more tune ups. Even though this bike only offers three gears, I found that it’s enough for most riding up to 20 mph which is the top speed of the bike in electric mode. This is a good entry level value priced bike that’s well thought out and comfortable to ride.
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