Buzz Drone 500w e-Bike Review

Travis GneitingBikes, e-bike

Introduction

Are you considering the Buzz Drone e-bike? As part of Buzz Bicycles, which is connected to well-known brands like Huffy and Niner, the Drone offers a unique take on the moped-style e-bike. In this review, we’ll explore whether the Buzz Drone stands out in the crowded e-bike market.

YouTube Video Review of the Buzz Drone Bike

Buzz Drone Bike Review Introduction

I have been riding this bike for the last couple months and put a few hundred miles on it as well as traveled with it from Utah, California and Nevada. The bike is a lot of fun and a good value for the price. Additionally, Buzz is always offering discounts so keep an eye out for those. This bike is more of a moped-style bike than a traditional pedal e-bicycle. It’s a lot more fun to cruise around on than commuting. The smaller diameter oversized wheels with the front 55mm shock make it fun for cruising around on dirt roads as well. The bike can be a little cramped, I’m 5’10” and pedaling long distances was not comfortable without an adjustable seat. I found myself using the full electric assist from the thumb throttle most of the time.


I think the bike is for someone that is looking to cruise around their neighborhood, campsites, and dirt roads. It makes transportation and exploration a lot more fun.

Design and Build Quality

The Buzz Drone is designed with safety and approachability in mind. Unlike many high-powered e-bikes, the Drone features a 500-watt hub motor, which is less powerful than the 750- or 1,000-watt motors found in other models. This makes it a great choice for younger riders or those who prefer a more controlled ride. The step-through frame design, reminiscent of a Vespa scooter, allows for easy mounting and dismounting, making it accessible for all riders.


The headlight and taillight as well as mechanical disc brakes offer additional safety features. All of these safety features are accessible from the handlebars. The kickstand also makes storing the bike much more convenient.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Buzz Drone e-bike delivers a balanced ride. The 500-watt motor paired with a 48-volt battery provides a top speed of 20 mph, classifying it as a Class 2 e-bike. This speed limit ensures a safer riding experience, especially for new riders. The suspension fork with 55mm of travel, along with the 20-inch wheels and 4-inch-wide Kenda tires, offer a smooth and comfortable ride on various terrains. Letting some air out of the tires I found I could even ride on some loose sand.

There are gears are changed from the right side thumb shifter. This is different from the pedal assist controlled from the left hand control. These gears work like a traditional bike. When riding around you will need to choose between increasing the pedal assist or shifting gears to overcome bigger hills or fatigue.

The large display is easy to read and control with the thumb buttons on the left side of the handlebars. You can control the levels of assist, monitor speed and watt output. Buttons also turn on and off the headlight. The thumb control works as a throttle for the e-Bike. Once peddling you can use the throttle to cruise without peddling.


Pricing and Value

Priced under $1,400 USD, the Buzz Drone is competitively positioned in the market. This makes it a more affordable option compared to many of its counterparts, some of which are priced upwards of $2,000. Always check the latest pricing on the Buzz Bicycles website for the most accurate information.


Braking and Safety

The Buzz Drone features mechanical disc brakes with 160mm rotors, which performed well in tests. The average stopping distance from 20 mph was 20 feet 5 inches, close to the industry average. Despite the smaller rotors, the bike’s lighter weight aids in stopping power, making it a reliable choice for everyday commuting.


Battery Life and Range

In range tests, the Buzz Drone achieved 20.7 miles on throttle power alone, slightly exceeding expectations. However, the battery readout on the display could be more accurate, as the percentage indicator tended to fluctuate. Despite this minor issue, the range should be sufficient for most rides, and Buzz offers a discount on an extra battery for those needing extended range.

E-Bike Drive and Motor

  • Large Center Mount LCD Display
  • Top Speed: 20Mph
  • Thumb Throttle
  • Integrated Lights
  • 48 Volt Battery
  • UL 2849 Standards
  • 500W Hub Motor
  • 40 Mile Range

Hill Performance

The Buzz Drone handled a 12% grade hill decently under throttle, showing its capability in more challenging riding conditions. While it may not be the most powerful e-bike on the market, it performs well within its design limits.


Conclusion

In conclusion, the Buzz Drone is a well-rounded moped-style e-bike that prioritizes safety, approachability, and value. While there are areas for improvement, such as the brake system and battery readout, the Drone offers a reliable and enjoyable riding experience at a competitive price.



Buzz Drone Features

  • Material: Aluminum
  • Recommended Height: Fits most riders
  • Tire Size: 20″x4″
  • Rims: Alloy
  • Frame Type: Step-Thru
  • Saddle: Extended Padded
  • Folding: No
  • Suspension: Front
  • Travel: 55mm
  • Assembled Weight: 66 lbs.
  • Shipping Weight: 84 lbs.
  • Class Type: Class 2
  • Pedal Assist Levels: 5
  • Max Speed: 20 mph
  • Motor: 500W Rear Hub Drive
  • Battery: 48V, 10.4 amp hours, 500 watt hours
  • Estimated Min/Max Range: Up to 40 miles*
  • Charge Time: 4-6 hours
  • Display: Center Mounted LCD
  • Throttle: Yes
  • Crank: Aooly 3pc, 165mm
  • Cassette: Shimano TZ 14-28T
  • Chainring: 42T
  • Shifters: Shimano 6 spd trigger
  • Brakes: Front/Rear Mechanical Disc Brakes
  • Fenders: Yes
  • Lights: Front and Rear
  • Rack: None
  • Bell: Yes