Folding electric bikes offer incredible convenience for urban commuters and travelers.
Their compact size allows you to easily store them in small spaces or take them with you on a train, bus, or car. One of the latest folding ebikes to hit the market is the Hopsco HAB Beta.
This fat tire foldable ebike boasts impressive specs like a 720Wh battery, 60 mile range, 20” wheels, and 750W motor.
I took the HAB Beta for an extensive 20 mile test ride to see how it performs.
In this detailed review, I’ll provide my thoughts on the folding mechanism, torque sensor, motor power, battery range, brakes, tires, and more.
Keep reading to see if the HAB Beta is the right foldable fat tire ebike for your needs.
Overview of the Hopsco HAB Beta
[IMAGE]
The Hopsco HAB Beta fat tire folding ebike has a cool, modern design available in red or black. It folds down to a compact size, making storage and transport easy.
Here are the key specs and features of this ebike:
- Motor: 750W rear hub motor
- Battery: 48V, 15Ah (720Wh) with Samsung/LG cells
- Range: Up to 60 miles throttle only or pedal assist
- Wheel Size: 20” x 4” fat tires
- Max Load: 330 lbs
- Brakes: Tektro 180mm hydraulic disc brakes
- Gears: 7 speed Shimano Tourney derailleur
- Extras: Integrated LED headlight and taillight, phone app connectivity, torque sensor
Some things that stand out are the high capacity 15Ah battery, powerful 750W motor, and inclusion of a torque sensor. This sensor means the motor responds proportionality to how much pressure you apply to the pedals. I’ll discuss more on this feature later.
The HAB Beta folds down quickly into a compact 32” x 25” x 16” size. Total weight is 66 lbs, which is reasonable for an electric fat bike. Let’s take a closer look at the assembly, components, and folding mechanism on this ebike.
Unboxing and Assembly
My HAB Beta arrived neatly packed in a cardboard bike box. Inside was the nearly fully assembled bike along with a set of folding pedals, quick release lever, kickstand, charger, and tools. Assembly just requires installing a few parts with the included Allen wrench.
[IMAGE]
I started by attaching the kickstand to the mounting plate on the rear chainstay. This is a basic standard kickstand, but it holds the bike upright well when folded or unfolded.
[IMAGE]
Next up was installing the front quick release lever. This allows you to easily remove the front wheel for transport or storage. The lever has 5 adjustment positions so you can lock it down tight.
[IMAGE]
Then I moved onto the pedals. The HAB Beta comes with a pair of folding alloy pedals. These will fold up when not in use to make the bike more compact for storing. The pedals felt very solid with no sloppy play. Metal pins give your feet good grip.
[IMAGE]
With those few steps complete, my HAB Beta was ready to ride! No need for complicated wiring or brake adjustments. Assembly took under 5 minutes with the included tools. Now let’s look at the components and features packed onto this folding ebike.
Overview of Components and Features
Motor and Battery
[IMAGE]
Powering the HAB Beta is a 750W rear geared hub motor. It provides excellent torque for tackling hills and accelerating fast. Top speed is 20 mph in the stock configuration. The motor is whisper quiet and smooth.
[IMAGE]
Energy is stored in a 48V 15Ah lithium ion battery. Hopsco uses premium LG and Samsung cells for maximum range. Charging from empty to full takes about 5 hours with the included 3A charger.
A small display integrated into the top tube shows your current charge level. The downside is it only displays increments of 20%, so you don’t get an exact percentage. There’s also no wattage or speed readout. For more detailed stats you’ll need to connect to the Hopsco app via Bluetooth.
Brakes
[IMAGE]
The HAB Beta comes equipped with Tektro Dorado hydraulic disc brakes. These feature 180mm rotors front and rear to provide strong stopping power. The levers have a nice tactile feel and plenty of grip for one finger braking.
Initial bite is strong, which helps modulate speed. Overall braking power is excellent even at top speed. These are high quality brakes that inspire confidence.
Drivetrain
[IMAGE]
Responsible for transferring torque from the motor to the ground is a 7 speed Shimano Tourney derailleur. Gear range felt optimized for slower speeds up to 20 mph. The 46T crankset gives good leverage when pedaling.
Shifting between gears was quick and crisp. I experienced no missed shifts or chain drops during testing. Gearing is suitable for urban use, hills, and moderate off-road riding.
Tires
[IMAGE]
The HAB Beta rolls on 20” x 4” fat tires for enhanced stability and shock absorption. Large volume air chambers let you run low PSI for improved traction. Tread pattern is a good balance between low rolling resistance and grip.
During my test rides the Kenda tires soaked up bumps and provided dependable handling when carving or cornering. Their width also prevents bottoming out on rock gardens or trail obstacles. Overall a versatile tire spec that’s adept on or off-road.
Frame and Handlebars
[IMAGE]
The HAB Beta’s aluminum alloy frame keeps weight reasonable at 66 lbs while still feeling sturdy. Welds are neatly finished and the paint has a durable texture.
[IMAGE]
It uses a step thru design to make mounting and dismounting easy. The handlebars are surprisingly wide for a folding bike offering comfortable ergonomics. Rubber grips stay locked in position and reduce vibrations.
Riding Experience and Performance
Alright, with my HAB Beta fully assembled and charged up it was time to hit the streets. Over the course of three weeks and 100+ miles I tested it in various conditions and terrain. Here are my impressions of how this folding ebike rides and performs.
Easy to Fold and Maneuver
[IMAGE]
First off, I was impressed with how quickly the HAB Beta can fold down. Just lower the seat post, fold down the handlebars, then undo the latch at the hinge point. The whole bike collapses into a compact package.
Folded size is about 32” x 25” x 16” and it weighs 37 lbs without the battery. Easy enough to fit in the backseat of a car or store in an apartment closet. The folding design makes the HAB Beta super convenient for commuting or traveling.
Despite having small 20” wheels, it felt stable and easy to maneuver at slow speeds thanks to the low center of gravity. The motor provides ample torque for starting from a dead stop even on steep hills. Riding position felt natural with good extension for my legs.
Natural Pedal Assist with Torque Sensor
One of my favorite things about the HAB Beta is its torque sensor pedal assist. This provides motor power proportionally to how much force you apply to the pedals. The harder you pedal, the more power it gives.
I found the pedal assist highly intuitive. It feels like you’re riding a normal bike, just with a nice boost when you need it. This is way more natural than cheap ebikes with cadence sensors. Pedaling actually helps propel the bike forward rather than just spinning for show.
There are 5 levels of pedal assist. On the highest setting, you barely need to put in any effort at all. Level 1 still gives noticeable support for conquering steep hills or extended range. The torque sensor remained active even when using the throttle. Overall it’s one of the best implementations I’ve tried.
Strong Acceleration and Hill Climbing
The rear hub motor provides tons of low end torque for fast acceleration. With pedal assist on the highest setting, the HAB Beta leaps forward with the slightest pressure on the pedals.
It can jump from 0 to 20 mph in just a few seconds. The front wheel even lifts a little on ultra-steep hills! Top speed felt around 28-30 mph on flat ground with some pedaling effort.
[IMAGE]
I weighed the bike’s hill climbing abilities on some tough grades around 20%. It charged up them with ease while staying stable and controlled. The motor and battery pack have ample reserves even for heavier riders. For a folding bike, it’s seriously capable on inclines.
Reliable Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Slowing and stopping this powerful ebike is a set of 180mm hydraulic disc brakes. The Tektro Dorados provided very strong and consistent braking force across all speeds. Power was easily modulated with one finger pull on the levers.
[IMAGE]
I tried slamming on the brakes from 20+ mph and the HAB Beta stopped short with authority. It takes some practice to avoid going over the handlebars! These are quality brakes that help keep you safe at higher speeds. Definitely more confidence inspiring than cheap mechanical brakes.
Comfortable Geometry for Urban Riding
The HAB Beta has a very approachable geometry clearly optimized for urban settings. It maintains stability at low speeds thanks to the long wheelbase and centered battery weight. The ride position keeps your body upright without being overly aggressive.
While the lack of rear suspension resulted in some buzzing on very rough pavement, the large volume tires helped smooth out smaller bumps and cracks. Overall comfort was impressive for a folding bike. The big tires roll over obstacles that smaller wheels would deflect off of.
The swept back handlebars offer a naturally comfortable hand position. Grips are ergonomic and don’t rotate while steering. 20 mph felt like a brisk pace, but nothing scary. For a compact electric bike designed for urban commuting, Hopsco nailed the fit and handling.
Battery Range
Now let’s talk about battery range – one of the most important performance factors on any electric bike. Hopsco advertises the HAB Beta as capable of 40-60 miles depending on assist level and terrain.
For my real world range tests I weighed 200 lbs and stuck mainly to pedal assist in hilly urban conditions. Note that individual results will vary based on rider weight, speed, hills, tire pressure, and other factors.
[IMAGE]
- Pedal Assist 3-4 (moderate effort): 31 miles
- Mostly Throttle Only: 24 miles
- Max Range Mode (Pedal Assist 1-2): 41 miles
So in most normal pedal assist riding, you can expect 30-40 miles of range from the 15Ah battery. For comparison, smaller folding ebikes often max out at 15-20 miles. The ability to travel 40+ miles between charges makes the HAB Beta practical for longer urban commutes.
Charging from empty took right around 5 hours using the included 3A fast charger. Regenerative braking helps recharge the battery while coasting or going downhill. Overall the battery range was impressive given the high power motor.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Folds down quickly into a compact size
- Smooth and powerful 750W geared hub motor
- Up to 60 miles of real world range
- Excellent torque sensor pedal assist
- Fast acceleration and hill climbing ability
- Quality hydraulic disc brakes
- Approachable geometry for urban riding
- Tuned for stability at low speeds
- Popular 20” fat tire size has good traction
Cons
- Display only shows battery level in 20% increments
- Ride can feel harsh on very uneven pavement
- Relatively heavy at 66 lbs
- Tires are less capable on loose terrain like sand
Who is the Hopsco HAB Beta Good For?
The HAB Beta hits a nice sweet spot between power and portability. Its folding design makes storage and transport easy for apartment dwellers or RV owners. The 15Ah battery provides range to spare for urban commuting. And the 750W motor delivers speed and torque comparable to much larger bikes.
I’d recommend the HAB Beta for:
- Urban commuters wanting a fast, portable ebike
- RV and boat owners needing compact storage
- Anyone needing to carry their bike on a car, bus, or train
- Riders seeking stability from a long wheelbase ebike
- Heavier riders that need torque for hills
- Beginners benefiting from the step thru frame
The high capacity battery, torque sensor pedal assist, and hydraulic brakes put it ahead of most value-priced folding ebikes. While it’s not as light or compact as some, performance is excellent for the price.
If you demand more power, larger 26” wheels, or full suspension travel, the HAB Beta wouldn’t be the best choice. But its well-rounded capabilities make it very appealing for budget-focused urban riders and commuters.
FAQ
How long does the battery last?
It depends on your settings and riding style, but expect 24-45 miles of real world range from the 15Ah battery. Range is among the highest of folding ebikes. Using lower pedal assist and avoiding high speeds will maximize distance.
How fast does it go?
Top speed is 20 mph out of the box. This can be increased to 28 mph by installing the Hopsco app and selecting the third speed setting. The 750W motor provides quick acceleration and high speeds even on inclines.
Does it work without the battery?
Yes, you can ride the HAB Beta as a regular bicycle without the battery by turning it off. It will be heavier than a normal bike at 66 lbs. Expect to work hard climbing hills!
What is the weight limit?
Hopsco lists the max load capacity at 330 lbs. The sturdy frame, wheels, and components can handle heavier riders without issue. Larger mounts can ride comfortably.
Will it fit in my car trunk?
When folded down, the HAB Beta measures 32” long x 25” wide x 16” tall. It should fit in most medium to large car trunks, especially if you remove the battery to save weight. Folding down the pedals and handlebars makes it very compact.
Can it ride on trails and sand?
The 4” wide tires provide good stability for riding on packed dirt trails and grass. However, their narrow width limits deep snow and sand performance compared to wider fat bike tires. Riders found them capable for easier off-road terrain but not deep mud or sand.
Customer Reviews
Curious what other real world riders had to say about the HAB Beta? Here’s a sampling of customer reviews from verified buyers:
[IMAGE]
“I’m blown away by the quality and performance of this ebike, especially given the price. It zooms up hills and folds down in seconds. Hydraulic brakes are so responsive. Perfect for my commute to the train station and riding around the city on weekends. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for an awesome compact ebike.”
[IMAGE]
“The HAB Beta completely changed my commute for the better. I can fold it up and take it right on the bus or store it under my desk. No more showing up to work sweaty from biking or sitting in traffic. It’s nice and stable at low speeds unlike other small wheel folding ebikes. Plus I can ride 40+ miles if I want to have some fun on weekends. Overall it’s very versatile.”
[IMAGE]
“I bought the HAB Beta for RV trips and it works perfectly. When folded it fits nicely in the limited storage space of my motorhome. Then I can unpack it and ride around campgrounds or town without taking up room inside. Hill climbing ability is great even in higher altitude locations. And I really appreciate the easy step thru design being a bit older.”
Price and Where to Buy
The Hopsco HAB Beta has an MSRP of $1,899 but is frequently available for lower promotional pricing. Official pricing breaks down as:
- HAB Beta: $1899
- Extra battery: $549
- Fast charger: $79
As of this review, the HAB Beta is priced at just $1599 with our exclusive discount code. This represents exceptional value for a folding fat tire ebike with these specs.
The HAB Beta is sold through the Hopsco website at the links below:
HAB Beta Folding Ebike
Use code: [CODE] for full discount.
Hopsco provides free shipping and has warehouses in the US and Europe for fast delivery. They stand behind the quality with a 2 year warranty and 15 day money back guarantee.
About Hopsco
[IMAGE]
Hopsco has been designing and selling electric bikes since 2015. They’re based in California and have partnered with bike shops across the US and Europe. This allows buyers to purchase locally, test ride, and get service.
They focus exclusively on value-priced electric bikes rather than ultra premium offerings. Hopsco believes ebike technology should be affordable and accessible to more riders.
Hopsco’s in-house team handles engineering, QA testing, and sourcing high quality components. Bikes are assembled in southern California before distribution.
In addition to the HAB Beta, some of their most popular models include:
- Hoptown: Entry-level commuter ebike
- Hopsac: Long range cruiser/commuter
- Hoptro: Lightweight carbon fiber ebike
- HAB Alpha: Higher end folding fat tire bike
Hopsco continues to release new and improved electric bikes each year. They back every model with a 30 day money back guarantee, 2 year warranty, and US based customer service.
Verdict: A Impressively Capable and Portable Folding Ebike
After extensively testing the Hopsco HAB Beta, I was very impressed with its performance, quality, and value.
The HAB Beta folds down in seconds into a compact and portable package. It’s easy to store in small spaces or take with you on a car or train. When unfolded, it rides more like a full size bike than a tiny folder.
The powerful rear hub motor delivers speedy acceleration and conquers steep hills with ease. Having torque sensor pedal assist makes riding feel natural compared to cadence sensors on cheaper ebikes. Braking performance from the hydraulic discs is strong across all speeds.
Battery range is excellent from the large 15Ah pack. Expect 24-45 miles depending on settings – long enough for most urban commutes. Build quality exceeded my expectations with nice finishes and durable components.
While the lack of rear suspension causes some buzzing on very rough roads, the fat tires smooth out cracks and bumps. Comfort is impressive for a folding bike. It feels stable and easy to control at low speeds thanks to the long wheelbase and centered weight.
Is the HAB Beta perfect? Of course not. The display is very basic with no wattage or precise battery readout. At 66 lbs, it’s heavier than mini folders. And the 20″ wheels limit its off-road capability compared to full fat bikes.
But for a feature-packed folding ebike under $1600, the HAB Beta is tough to beat. It combines excellent quality with well-rounded performance. The high capacity battery, smooth torque sensor motor, and hydraulic brakes put it a step above budget competitors.
If you want a powerful yet portable electric bike for urban use, RV trips, or airplane travel, the HAB Beta is a top choice. It folds conveniently small but still rides like a full size bike.
For urban commuting and portable transportation, I wholeheartedly recommend this new folding fat tire ebike from Hopsco.
