Magnum Cruiser Review

Magnum Cruiser Electric Bike Review
Magnum Cruiser
Magnum Cruiser Das Kit 500 Watt Internally Geared Hub Motor
Magnum Cruiser Large 48 Volt 13 Ah Downtube Ebike Battery
Magnum Cruiser Padded Stitched Grips
Magnum Cruiser Rst Neon Tnl Spring Suspension Fork With Led Headlight
Magnum Cruiser Tektro Auriga Hydraulic Disc Brakes 180 160
Magnum Cruiser 18 Amp Controller Chainring With Minimalist Guard
Magnum Cruiser 8 Speed Shimano Acera With Derailleur Guard
Magnum Cruiser 2 Amp Portable Electric Bike Charger
Magnum Cruiser Electric Bike Review
Magnum Cruiser
Magnum Cruiser Das Kit 500 Watt Internally Geared Hub Motor
Magnum Cruiser Large 48 Volt 13 Ah Downtube Ebike Battery
Magnum Cruiser Padded Stitched Grips
Magnum Cruiser Rst Neon Tnl Spring Suspension Fork With Led Headlight
Magnum Cruiser Tektro Auriga Hydraulic Disc Brakes 180 160
Magnum Cruiser 18 Amp Controller Chainring With Minimalist Guard
Magnum Cruiser 8 Speed Shimano Acera With Derailleur Guard
Magnum Cruiser 2 Amp Portable Electric Bike Charger

Summary

  • A handsome, cruiser style electric bike with neatly integrated cables, strong alloy fenders, a clean plastic chain cover, and uniquely designed rear cargo rack, everything matches
  • Emphasis on comfort for the rider with soft Big Ben balloon tires, an extra-wide saddle with rubber bumpers, high adjustable-angle handlebar, padded grips, and suspension fork
  • Powerful 500 watt geared motor, 48 volt Lithium-ion battery, and 18 Amp controller can support larger riders and power up hills more easily, 28 mph pedal assist and 20 mph throttle on demand
  • Heavier build at nearly 60 lbs in part due to the large battery capacity, only one frame size and color choice for now, independent lights and reflective tires improve safety

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

Magnum

Model:

Cruiser

Price:

$2,099

Body Position:

Upright, Upright Relaxed

Suggested Use:

Neighborhood, Cruising

Electric Bike Class:

Throttle on Demand (Class 2), Speed Pedelec (Class 3)
Learn more about Ebike classes

Warranty:

1 Year Comprehensive

Availability:

United States, Canada, New Zealand, Israel

Model Year:

20172018

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

59.2 lbs (26.85 kg)

Battery Weight:

9.2 lbs (4.17 kg)

Motor Weight:

10.1 lbs (4.58 kg)

Frame Material:

6061 Aluminum Alloy

Frame Sizes:

19.5 in (49.53 cm)

Geometry Measurements:

19.5" Seat Tube, 25.25" Reach, 27.5" Stand Over Height, 26.75" Width, 76" Length

Frame Types:

High-Step

Frame Colors:

Satin Black with Bronze Accents

Frame Fork Details:

RST Neon-TNL Spring Suspension, 75 mm Travel, Compression Clicker with Lockout, Preload Adjust, 100 mm Hub Length, 9 mm Skewer with Quick Release

Frame Rear Details:

142 mm Hub Length, 11 mm Axle with Nuts

Attachment Points:

Rear Rack Bosses, Fender Bosses

Gearing Details:

8 Speed 1x8 Shimano Acera Derailleur, 11-32T Cassette

Shifter Details:

Shimano RevoShift Grip Shifter on Right

Cranks:

Prowheel Ounce, Forged Alloy, 170 mm Length, Square Taper Bottom Bracket, 48 Tooth Chainring with Alloy Guard

Pedals:

Wellgo Aluminum Alloy Platform, Black

Headset:

Neco Tapered 1-1/8" to 1-1/2" Threadless Internal Cups

Stem:

Promax Quill Style, Tool-Free Adjustable Angle, 100 mm Length, 25.4 Clamp Diameter

Handlebar:

High-Rise, Aluminum Alloy, 670 mm Length

Brake Details:

Tektro Auriga Hydraulic Disc with 180 mm Front Rotor and 160 mm Rear Rotor, Dual-Piston Calipers, Three-Finger Levers with Motor Inhibitors

Grips:

Imitation Leather, Ergonomic, Stitched

Saddle:

Selle Royal Cruiser Comfort, Rubber Bumpers, Imitation Leather

Seat Post:

Promax, Aluminum Alloy

Seat Post Length:

300 mm

Seat Post Diameter:

30.4 mm

Rims:

Aluminum Alloy, Double Walled, 25 mm Width, 36 Hole

Spokes:

Stainless Steel, 13 Gauge, Silver with Adjustable Nipples

Tire Brand:

Schwalbe Balloon Big Ben, 26" x 2.15" (55-559)

Wheel Sizes:

26 in (66.04cm)

Tire Details:

30 to 55 PSI, 2.0 to 4.0 BAR, Reflective Sidewall Stripes, K-Guard 3 Puncture Protection

Tube Details:

Schrader Valve

Accessories:

Flick Bell, Custom Rear Rack with Pannier Blockers and Triple Bungee (25 kg / 55 lb Max Weight), Black Aluminum Alloy 70 mm Wide Fenders with Mud Flaps, Minimalist Plastic Chain Cover, Independent Spanninga Swing Headlight (3 AAA Batteries, Twist Lens to Open), Independent Spanninga Solo Back Light (2 AAA Batteries), Sticker Slap Guard, Center-Mount Single Side Adjustable Length Kickstand, Steel Derailleur Guard

Other:

Locking Removable Downtube Mounted Battery Pack, 9 Mosfet 18 Amp Current Controller, 1.5 lb 2 Amp Charger, Sine Wave Controller

Electronic Details

Motor Brand:

Das-Kit

Motor Type:

Rear-Mounted Geared Hub
Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

500 watts

Motor Peak Output:

700 watts

Motor Torque:

90 Newton meters

Battery Brand:

Samsung, DLG, Panasonic

Battery Voltage:

48 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

13 ah

Battery Watt Hours:

624 wh

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium Nickel Cobalt Manganese (Li-NCM)

Charge Time:

6.5 hours

Estimated Min Range:

30 miles (48 km)

Estimated Max Range:

60 miles (97 km)

Display Type:

Das-Kit C7, Fixed, Backlit, Monochrome LCD

Readouts:

Power Output Indicator (6 Ticks), Assist Level (0-6), Speed, Odometer, Timer, Trip 1, Trip 2, BMS Voltage, Battery Level (6 Bars)

Display Accessories:

Independent Button Pad (Power, Set, +, -), (Press Power Button for Display Backligt, Hold Minus Button for Walk Mode)

Drive Mode:

Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist, Trigger Throttle

Top Speed:

28 mph (45 kph)(20 MPH Throttle, Adjustable)


Written Review

EBR charges a service fee to manufacturers to produce ebike reviews and videos. It’s the same flat fee for each bike, and it helps us to keep the site going while limiting ad clutter. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you with our opinions and data but respect your right to know that we receive compensation :)

In recent years, Magnum has expanded their line of electric bikes for sale in the US, and the Cruiser is one of the newest models. It builds on the 28 mph top speed, pedal assist + throttle operated, extra-large battery concept that the Metro and Peak models also use, but really emphasizes comfort and style. With a bottom bracket that is pushed forward and smaller 26″ diameter wheels, you can more easily mount, stand over, and stabilize this bike at stops. When it comes time for pedaling, you still get decent leg extension because the cranks are positioned forward. And upper body position is extremely adjustable here, you can angle the high-rise bars forward or back to suite your arm length and the adjustable angle stem can raise or lower the base position. When you combine puffy padded grips with an enlarged comfort saddle, fatter 2.15″ balloon tires, and an adjustable suspension fork, you end up with a very satisfying ride. This is one of the few cruiser style electric bikes that’s priced within reach for a large audience, and still comes with fenders, lights, and a custom mid-frame battery pack. In my opinion, it really does offer a great value… even if you decided to remove the fenders and rear rack to emphasize style and shed a few pounds. Weighing in at nearly 60 lbs, I was surprised to discover that the Cruiser model is not heavier than the similarly specced Metro. The Metro just looks lighter to me because it’s a commuter frame with skinnier tires. The features overlap quite a bit, though the Cruiser has a 180/160 mm disc brake setup vs. 180 mm for both on the Metro, and the Metro also has an integrated headlight vs. independent lights on the Cruiser. I think the big decision between the two should be based on body position and ride style. If you care about active pedaling on a narrower saddle and more forward aerodynamic position, get the Metro. Otherwise, the Cruiser is just as capable. Note that the Cruiser frame is only available in this swooping high-step design and you can only get it in black with bronze accents at the time of this review.

Driving this ebike is a very capable Das-Kit internally geared hub motor rated from 500 watts nominal to 700 watts peak. The motor controller offers 9 Mosfets and puts out up to 18 Amps for smooth, quiet, and powerful operation. Notice how large the controller unit is, and how it’s mounted outside of the frame (there near the bottom of the downtube). It’s insulated against water, just like the motor, display panel, button pad, and battery, but gets more direct airflow here. I also believe that they positioned it as they did, so that the battery could slide down lower for improved frame balance. Everything works together and while the aesthetics are slightly altered, the controller box is mostly hidden by the chainring and I feel that it is mostly out of the way of water and debris because of the large alloy front fender. As with all internally geared hub motors I have reviewed, this one does produce some electronic whirring noises. It does not interfere with pedaling, so you can shift easily and smoothly regardless of power delivery, and it works best if the bike has a little bit of speed going. I was able to climb some steep sidewalk sections in a garden area near the capitol building in Salt Lake City and had no issue once the bike got going a few miles per hour. I only weigh 135 lbs, but got the impression that this bike would be capable of handling heavier riders and gear on the rack. The rack is rated to 55 lbs. Perhaps the best part of this setup is that the motor can be activated anytime the bike is powered on by simply pressing the trigger throttle near the left grip. It’s wonderful to have such control at your fingertips and not have to pedal… but this will drain the battery quickly, and if you’re starting from standstill on a steep incline it may struggle. The throttle offers full power if you depress the trigger throttle all the way but maxes out at 20 mph. If you want to hit the maximum speed of 28 mph, you will have to arrow up into the highest level of assist and pedal along. That said, you do not have to push while pedaling because this bike relies on a cadence sensor to measure crank movement, not crank torque. For those who are interested in lower speed operation, Magnum or your local dealer can set a different top speed. Coming back to the throttle for a moment, take care to always turn the bike off when dismounting or moving it because the throttle is always active and could easily get bumped. This could lead to the bike getting out of hand and crashing.

Supporting that powerful motor is an equally powerful high-capacity Lithium ion battery pack. It offers 48 volts and 13 Amp hours for a total of 624 watt hours (over half a kilowatt hour!) that should take you anywhere from 25 or 30 miles up to 60+ miles per charge. The range is fairly wide and imprecise because speed, rider weight, and terrain greatly influence operation. If you always use the first one or two levels of assist and rarely juice the throttle, it will go much further than if you sit back and zip around like a scooter. The battery pack fits neatly into the downtube and clicks in from the left side. You can charge it on or off the bike with the included 2 Amp charger, but be careful with the plug interface because the charger wire ends up in the path of the left crank arm and could get snagged or bent if you turn the pedals accidentally or move the bike when it’s plugged in. I also noticed that the little rubber cover that seals the charging port on the battery can be difficult to press in. Near the top right side of the battery is a second port which has a standard sized USB female plug for charging portable electronics. You could use this while riding the bike to keep your phone charged (perhaps if you’re using it for GPS navigation) or when the pack is off the bike, as a backup source of energy. The rubber cover for the USB port fits much easier and I appreciate that this plug is out of the way of the cranks and your legs when pedaling. So, you can also take the battery completely off the bike for storing or charging inside, which is convenient if you work in an office and have to park the bike outside. Lithium-ion batteries tend to be very durable but it’s best to avoid extreme heat or cold to really make them last for the 1,000+ rated full cycles. Note that this battery pack weighs about nine pounds, and would be worth taking off if you have to lift the bike or transport it on a car rack. The front wheel can also be removed with a simple quick release mechanism and the seat post is the same way. You will need some tools to get the rear wheel off, but there’s a simple disconnect port on the motor power cable to make it easier.

Operating the Magnum Cruiser is simple and clear. Once the battery has been charged and mounted, you press the rubberized power button on the pad situated near the left grip. The Das-Kit LCD display panel blinks to life, and you can tap the power button once more to turn on backlighting. Unfortunately, this display does not activate the headlight or tail light. They are both independent, relying on AAA batteries and separate on/off switches. This is a grip for me because the battery is so large and easily rechargeable. It takes extra time and memory to switch the lights on and off when parking, but at least you get the lights, and I appreciate the reflective tire casings as well. Since this is a black colored bike, it’s important to have some front and side reflection and lights if you plan to ride in early morning or late evening conditions where automobiles might miss you. Note also, since the headlight is mounted to the moving portion of the suspension fork, it may create a less consistent beam and even get jolted out of place over time. During my test rides, I took the Cruiser down some steps and across a few very bump sections of sidewalk, and I could hear the kickstand bouncing up and down. But the fenders and light seemed solid. It was easy for me to look down and get a sense for speed, battery capacity, and assist level because the display panel is so large and centrally mounted. I do wish that the display was removable, for reduced wear at bike racks, but it’s better protected than most because of the taller handlebars. The button pad allows you to arrow up or down for more or less power and speed with assist… but remember, the throttle is always hot and offers up to full power depending on how far you push it. This is a more advanced and “full control” setup than a lot of other electric bikes and as a regular, possibly more confident rider, I love it. You can hold the down arrow to activate walk mode for climbing steep sections or just taking a break. It’s useful if the bike is loaded with gear or when you’re walking through tall grass or other soft terrain.

There’s a lot to say about this electric bike because it’s packed with features. The fenders are correctly sized for the large balloon tires and the plastic chain cover kept my pants clear of the chain. There’s also an alloy bash guard that would protect the chainring from curb strikes and other tall obstacles… but that’s a bit overkill for more of a neighborhood/urban styled ebike. I think the chainring guard looks nice, but wouldn’t mind having a full chain guide (a second plate on the inside) to keep the chain from bouncing off track. I never dropped the chain during my test ride, and did appreciate the plastic sticker style slap guard to protect the black paint on the right chainstay. Even the kickstand has been optimized here, though not completely 100%. It is positioned far back enough on the left side to stay mostly clear of the left crank arm when walking the bike backward or servicing the chain, as long as the pedal is not in the flat position when it passes. This stand is adjustable for length and supports the bike well, even in soft grass. Magnum continues to do a great job with their purpose built, value oriented electric bikes. To some people, $2 might not sound affordable, but you get the proper assembly and year long support that dealers can offer with this product. Little extras like the derailleur guard keep your gears and the motor cable in good shape if the bike tips or is parked next to other bicycles in a rack, and the internally routed cables look nice and stay protected. Stopping is a big deal, especially because this bike is heavier and capable of high-speeds, so the hydraulic disc brakes with motor inhibitors are a win, and the little bits (like the custom rack with pannier blockers and bungee cord) all add up to something really special. I’d like to thank Magnum for partnering with me on this review and bringing their Metro model for side-by-side comparison. I feel like they have a good model here, balancing value against performance and service, and enjoyed this ebike very much.

Pros:

  • Considering that Magnum sells their electric bikes predominantly through independent electric bike shops and offers a comprehensive one year warranty, I feel like their price points offer a lot of value, this thing has a powerful motor, larger than average battery pack, and lots of great comfort and utility accessories like fenders, lights, upgraded saddle, and suspension fork with lockout
  • The whole bike is setup to be heavy duty with a thicker than average seat post, thicker gauge spokes and full 36 hole rims vs. 32 hole, and a reinforced diamond type frame
  • It isn’t as loud or “buzzy” as some hub motor powered electric bikes because they use a pure sine wave controller to deliver power and have an upgraded controller to handle the extra power and dissipate heat better
  • The fenders are extra wide to fully protect you from mud and water, since the tires are 2.15″ diameter, and I love the thin plastic chain cover that protects your pants from getting dirty or snagged on the chain
  • Magnum custom designed this frame for comfort and a lowered body position, notice how the seat tube bends forward to connect with the bottom bracket (where the crank arms attach) this allows you to get more full leg extension while lowering the saddle for easier mounting and balancing at stops
  • A tool-free adjustable angle stem and taller handlebar combine to make steering relaxed and upright, you don’t have to hunch forward and get a sore back and neck when riding… but this isn’t as sporty or aerodynamic as a road bike
  • The rack can be removed if you want, but I thought it looked cool and offered a lot of utility (even just using the included triple-bungee cord), the fenders are also removable
  • I love that this e-bike comes stock with powerful hydraulic disc brakes, they are easier to actuate than mechanical brakes and offer adjustable-reach levers, the levers also have motor inhibitors built in to cut motor power when stopping
  • I love the pedal choice here, they are large and stiff for people with bigger feet, the nubs aren’t especially sharp so you get good traction but maybe not as scraped up if you do slip off
  • Decent Shimano Acera drivetrain with eight speeds, you get a clean and intuitive grip shifter and at the derailleur there’s a steel guard to keep the motor cable and shifter mechanism in good shape if the bike tips, the eight speeds is just enough for the Class 3 speed version and more than enough for the standard Class 2 setup limited to 20 mph
  • The front wheel and seat tube collar offer quick release so you can make the bike smaller and lighter or do service or fitting more easily, the battery is also removable to reduce weight or charge and store separately
  • Since the lockout clicker on the fork is progressive, you can raise compression for a mixed suspension feel and decreased dive when stopping, this would be good for heavier riders or those carrying a lot of cargo
  • This is a minor pro, but I appreciate how compact and sealed off the cadence sensor is, many ebikes use a larger more exposed magnet design that can get bumped out of place
  • For people who enjoy portable electronics and want to keep them charged on the go, the battery pack has a 5 Volt USB charging port built into the right side, consider getting a cheap right angle USB adapter to keep the cables from getting bumped while pedaling
  • I really like the display, button pad, and throttle setup on this electric bicycle, they look good, seem very durable, and are reachable without too much hand effort

Cons:

  • The controller box is larger than normal, you can see it mounted at the lower portion of the downtube, near the bottom bracket, aesthetically it stands out a bit but the utility of improved cooling and a lowered battery position is worth it in my opinion
  • I wish the lights were powered by the main battery pack instead of independent AAA batteries, this means you will have to occasionally change the cells and spend more time powering them on and off before and after rides, at least the rear light is tucked into the rack so it won’t get blocked by a bag or panniers… but the headlight sits on the fork brace and may bounce around as the sliders travel up and down
  • I like that chainring has an Aluminum alloy bash guard to protect the chainring teeth but didn’t see a second plate to create a full guide (and prevent chain drops), I did not experience chain drops when riding however so this is a minor consideration
  • The battery charging port and kickstand are in the path of the left crank arm, so be careful not to bump them if you back the bike up (as the crank arms will automatically backtrack) or if you trip over the charger cable, to be fair, the kickstand is just barely clear if the pedal is not sticking out
  • They didn’t have room for a water bottle mount on the frame, so consider adding a trunk bag with integrated bottle holster like this, I like that this particular bag is also reflective for added visibility
  • The battery charger is compact and lightweight, but very average in terms of speed… and the Magnum Cruiser has a big battery, so it can take longer to fill, some e-bikes are now offering 3 or even 4 Amp chargers vs. just 2 Amp here

Resources:

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Comments (30) YouTube Comments

Jay Ford
7 years ago

This eBike is very fun and is built strong; however, the Magnum pedal assist controller goes from level 6 down to level 0 and then rolls back around to level 6. It is very easy to accidentally click one time too many and when you thought your assist is off, you get thrown forward with full assist.

  Reply
Court Rye
7 years ago

Thanks for the feedback Jay, it may be a preference thing… clicking buttons while riding can also be a distraction and cause instability, just like going from zero to six accidentally can be startling. Thanks for highlighting this point, ride safe :)

  Reply
Tim Barr
6 years ago

I was at a local dealer the other day. It seems like the latest firmware on the controllers does not allow going from 0 to 6. I believe it still allowed going form 6 to 0. Maybe they heard you.

  Reply
Matthew
7 years ago

Court, I enjoy your reviews. I have a question that perhaps others here may have, so your answer would be much appreciated.

I am about to be a first-time ebike buyer. I have researched maybe 50 bikes over the past three months and test-rode five. My favorite is the Magnum Cruiser. The only hold-up is the nearest Magnum dealer is 100 miles from my home. My local Velofix franchise said they could service the Magnum, but as they don’t have a partnership with them it could be two weeks to get a part. Also, I am not handy at all.

Do you think I should forget the Magnum and buy my second or third favorite choice (Raleigh Retroglide or Pedego Classic Cruiser) because they have dealers in my town? Very different specs, I realize that.

Thank you very much.
Matthew

  Reply
Court Rye
7 years ago

Hi Matthew! I usually lean towards dealers because it’s fun to get fitted, have them tune up the bike, and provide warranty service. Often times, dealers will give you a discount on accessories bought together with a bicycle and sometimes they even throw in a free tuneup! All of this, plus supporting the local shop, is pretty compelling… but if you’re heart is set on the Magnum Cruiser, it’s true that most shops and Velofix could help with service issues. Magnum prices tend to be lower than Pedego and I really like how many accessories they include. I feel like they have really done a good job supporting their dealers and direct customers, so I trust them. If your heart is set on this bike, I think you’ve got plenty of resources to keep it running smooth… maybe pay Velofix or your shop $100 to dial it in once you receive it, and that’s still good business for them. I think Magnum will be around for a long time and many of the parts that could break here are easily replaced (many are non-ebike specific too). For me, this is a 50/50 sort of decision and depends more on which bike you really want :)

  Reply
Matthew
7 years ago

Court,

Thanks for the reply. If I buy the Magnum Cruiser, I don’t mind making the 100 mile trip to get it and maybe again for the free 30-day tune-up. Plus, I like the store owner and like supporting a family-owned business.

I am test riding the Raleigh Retroglide Step Over next week at my local bike shop, then I will decide. I think because the Magnum is more powerful, I will end up with that and just get it serviced by either the local shop where I live or by Velofix. The owner of the store that carries the Magnum told me he’s sold 80 Cruisers and not one of them has come back within the one-year warranty with a problem.

Last thing: Do you plan on reviewing the 2018 Retroglide any time soon? As you know, it’s different (battery moved to down tube, etc.) than the one you have up on the site.

Thanks again.
Matthew

  Reply
Court Rye
7 years ago

Sounds good Matthew! I’d love to hear more updates once you get a bike and have a chance to ride for a bit. Yes, I did notice that the Retroglide has been improved for 2018 and I do hope to review it at some point. I am in touch with the Raleigh team and planning a visit in the next month or so :)

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Susan
7 years ago

Hi! Thank you for making this review! I am starting a bicycle tour company and want to use e-bikes because the city where I live is very hilly and a bit sprawling. I’m trying to choose a bike to use for the tours and am leaning towards the Magnum Cruiser, Magnum Metro and Faraday Cortland S. I like the Cortland S because I think it is has a nice design, and because it does not look like an e-bike will hopefully appeal to cyclists who are e-bike skeptics. Do you think the pedal assist with the Faraday Cortland S is powerful enough to offset the difficulty of biking up a hill for people of all ages and sizes? The hills are sloping to fairly steep though not a lot of long steep hills. If I cannot get a good deal from Faraday for the Cortland S, then I will be buying from Magnum. Do you think the Magnum Cruiser or the Metro would be better for a bike tour company where many different types of people would be riding them? I’m leaning towards the Cruiser because I like the design but would like to go with the more practical of the two for a bicycle tour company. Also, I have never owned a cruiser style bike and am not sure how practical it is for a hilly city even if it is an electric bike. Thank you again!

  Reply
Court Rye
7 years ago

Hi Susan! I like how the Magnum bikes have suspension and come in both black and white, high step and step-thru. The Cruiser does have a comfortable geometry and could compliment the Metro Step-Thru very nicely. Faraday makes some beautiful bikes, but they don’t have throttles (which could be more comfortable and helpful to riders who aren’t used to pedaling) and the motor systems they user are more gentle. They also tend to cost a lot more and unfortunately, I have heard some shops say that they are not as reliable. For a rental operation, it’s nice to have bikes with easily swappable battery packs so you can keep the bikes moving or replace broken stuff down the line. I would definitely go with Magnum in this case and also consider ebike rental insurance which I posted about in the forums here a while back. I hope this helps you and wish you luck starting your tour business!! Please share your stories and how it all works out someday :D

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Gene Schulp
7 years ago

Court, I love the reviews, keep up the good work. Do you think the throttle on the Magnum Cruiser could be moved to the right side? Thanks

  Reply
court
7 years ago

Hi Gene! I definitely think the throttle could be moved to the right side, but it would press in the opposite direction and probably be difficult to reach because of the grip shifter window. You might be able to put the half-grip shifter on the left, but then it will also turn in the opposite direction and you might need to flip the grips to match (half on the side with shifting and the full grip on the other side). I hope this helps, and I welcome your feedback if you decide to experiment :)

  Reply
Mark Dapier
6 years ago

I love the Cruiser but… and this is a big but,the placement of the throttle is downright dangerous. It is sooooo easy to bump by accident and have 60 pounds of metal take off (and I mean take off!!!) Other ebikes I tried have either a button throttle or a twist on the handle bars. Both of those options make it harder to accidentally engage this important feature. As a lawyer I suggest Magnum re-think the throttle design and placement before someone has a really bad experience.

  Reply
Court
6 years ago

Interesting, thanks for the input Mark! I’ve had the opposite experience in a couple of situations where the half-grip twist throttle was engaged while riding (since my hand slipped around or twisted slightly as I grabbed on harder during an intense moment of steering or braking. I prefer trigger throttles on any sort of off-road ebike because they stay out of the way. Twist throttles however, work very well for cruisers and city bikes where terrain is more predictable. I think a lot of it comes down to personal preference… like jet skis with trigger throttles vs. motocross motorcycles with full grip twist throttles.

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Mark Dapier
6 years ago

The trigger throttle is easy to use but the way it is placed on the Magnum if you are stopped and lean forward to reach for something, or are walking the bike it is very easy to hit it (I have done it and even the dealer I bought it from did when moving the bike). As for a twist throttle, I can see how that could be a problem in an off road situation.

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Court
6 years ago

Thanks for clarifying and sharing your input Mark, it’s nice to have a civil dialog and all constructive input is welcome here :)

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Glenn
6 years ago

Just bought two Magnums, a Cruiser for myself and a Metro for my wife. I LOVE these bikes! I always drive European cars because of the quality and workmanship and being a bit of a snob was looking to buy a Bulls, or Gazelle, or Focus, all excellent bikes, until I tested the Magnums… For half the price, I have an excellent bike of equal, and in some measures, superior quality. I HATE that it comes from China, but the riding experience tells the truth.

I bought them from a great local shop in Charlotte NC called Charlotte Cycles. We all have lots of options to buy from the big box stores and online. Its crucial for our economy to support the small local stores! I picked Charlotte Cycles because of their great price, but more importantly, great service and, most importantly, supporting the local economy!

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Court
6 years ago

Hey John, I’m glad to hear that you’re enjoying the Magnum bikes! Thanks for sharing your feedback :D

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Louis
5 years ago

**Warning to Canadian Consumers:**

If you are in Canada and you are thinking of buying the Magnum Cruiser, be warned that you might not be getting what you think. You may be getting a bike with a 250 Watt motor (European spec) and not a 500 Watt motor (North American spec).

I bought mine in Ottawa. It has http://www.magnumbikes.co.il stenciled where http://www.magnumbikes.com would normally go. I don’t care about the stencil, but it indicates that the bike was meant for the Israeli market, not North America, and it has the smaller motor. I checked on the Das-Kit web site: it is definitely a 250 Watt motor. It can be tuned to reach North American speed specifications, but this will in the very least considerably shorten the life of the motor, and you will not get the advertised motor torque.

I have written multiple e-mails to my local shop, the Canadian distributor, and to Magnum headquarters. I have had zero response. I think they are dumping their Israeli overstock in Canada.

Pictures available.

  Reply
Court
5 years ago

Interesting, thanks for this feedback Louis!

  Reply
Phil
5 years ago

Thanks Louis, for this information. I also bought a Magnum Cruiser in Ottawa and I suspect I could be in the same situation with a motor below their advertised specs. I am trying to get more motor info from Das-Kit; could you please share the link of the Das-Kit website that you referred to in your post? Thank you!

  Reply
Louis
5 years ago

Phil, aorry for the late reply.

The give-away is a sticker on the motor that says “Model: Das-Kit X15, Spec: 48V 250W, 25 KM/H”. If you do a web search for “das-kit x15 48v 250w” you will find plenty of references to this motor. The serial number on the motor starts with “X15”. Is this the same motor as “Das-Kit R4 Rear Geared Hub Motor, 48V 500W” advertised on the Magnum web site? Magnum claims yes, that they simply forgot to remove the model number sticker meant for the Israeli market. The Das-Kit web site itself has no reference to “Model X15”.

Another clue is the fact that the C7 display does not have a setting for miles per hour, as opposed to kilometres per hour. Not that I want miles, but this indicates that this bike was meant for the European market. With no miles per hour, there is no way Magnum could have gotten away with dumping this bike in Utah.

Frankly, I don’t know who or what to believe: I wrote 2 e-mails to Magnum, and they did not reply until July 6th, and only when I complained directly on their Facebook feed. Queries to my local dealer and to the Canadian distributor went completely unanswered.

Louis

Reynald Gonnin
4 years ago

Good day Sir

I bought 2 Magnum Cruisers (with the 500W motor), and we have enjoyed our daily 25-65KM rides since 2018. Your in detail review sure did help to convince us to make the purchase.

I am a certified auto mechanic, and I believe the noise coming from the gear motor may need some TLC, I will be stripping the motor apart this coming fall to inspect a little closer the gear set. Do you have any parts resource as to where I could order extra gear set for those motors?

The dealer is extremely limited in his knowledge of the components or simply reluctant to give up part numbers.

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Wow! That sounds like a neat project Reynald. I don’t know anyone who has actually done this, but I have seen pictures online where a planetary geared motor has been disassembled and grease added (or maybe just showing the inside for interest and just for fun). I get the impression that most manufacturers do not recommend for customers to open the motors, but you seem like a person with the skills and tools to try it. I welcome your feedback, but I do not have any input on where to get parts based on my own first hand experience… One possibility worth trying is Luna Cycles, because they have an entire parts section and I’ve visited their factory warehouse before and seen lots of interesting stuff there. I wish you luck, and welcome feedback on what you discover! You could also post your plans and maybe some pictures and stuff in the Magnum ebike forums to see if other people have input :)

  Reply
Reynald Gonnin
4 years ago

Good day Court. I have spent about 3hr on each bike to strip the front and rear wheel assembly, the front was simple, to lube and adjust the bearings and compare the brakes pads with the rear one; they are the same P/N: Tektro, A10.11, CCY-C3 made of Metal Ceramic compound. The motor cover once the rear wheel removed, the nuts and shim put aside, is held on place by 6 Philips screws size 2, no seal in between, from there it is an easy pull apart by hand till you get to the gear assy, there is a small internal cir-clip, once removed I did use a 3″ jaw puller and with little forces it came up. The internal sun gear has 18 teeth and the 3 big one have 36 teeth, I have used some pure synthetic brake grease compatible with plastics (Cera-Tec Brake Parts Lubricant) then put it back together and adjusted the brakes last, I have clear detail pics and videos of the gear noise before and after of course, result is: it feel like brand new, the noise level has been reduce by about 60% and I am sure I have also reduce the front wheel resistance by adjusting the bearing properly, this should be done once every 2 yr or when you reach 10K. KM Cheers

Daniel Patrick
4 years ago

Which would you recommend, the magnum metro/cruiser or Espin flow?

  Reply
Court
4 years ago

Hi Daniel! I personally like how the Magnum Cruiser looks and appreciate their dealers. If you cannot buy from a dealer, it could be a draw between the two. They both have suspension for comfort and similar specs, but Magnum has been around longer and seems to be pretty healthy. Espin is probably fine, I think I just lean towards Magnum because I like their products in general and prefer the style of the Cruiser to the Flow :)

  Reply
Daniel
4 years ago

Hello Court: Thank you for your excellent review and recommendation. We tried the Espin and was not very impressed, then went to the Magnum dealer tried the Metro and the Cruiser and decided on the Cruiser. My wife was convinced she would like the Metro (never in a million years would ride a cruiser) but after riding both, much to her surprise, she loved the cruiser. We are basically touring the area and not commuting so they are perfect. Would you recommend the battery upgrade?

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