This is the Metro Plus’s second incarnation. It’s the most comfortable urban electric bike I have ever ridden. The companion step-through companion Navigator is also included. It’s identical to the original Metro Plus except for the frame design. Both will be very popular, I predict. The Navigator would be my choice, as I don’t feel like swinging my legs over all the time. It’ll probably be the most popular item. However, the Voyager is my favorite looking sibling.
Many people were first introduced to ebikes by the Metro Plus and 48V Plus models. These bikes were powerful and well-priced, and the build kit was comparable to their price. They are a great value, as many buyers bought them through Mercury customer discounts or work purchase schemes. They are the same, but the RRP has increased $100 to $2999. You get a well-integrated battery and beautiful looks.
The new Magnum handles very well, especially when compared to the older model with its skinnier tyres. The wheels are 27.5 inches wide, compared to the 26 inch Metro wheels and the 28 inch Plus (but thinner) wheels. This sure-footedness is most noticeable when there are surface changes. For example, when crossing a driveway at an acute angle to get to the footpath, you notice it. With skinny tyres, this common maneuver is a little tricky. However, it’s not a problem with fatter tyres with good geometry.
Although the front suspension is now a little more comfortable than it was before, it still uses affordable coil-sprung Suntours. It is great, with a comfortable geometry that is easy to pedal. It felt great to pedal, even though I underestimated the battery’s capacity.
It’s something I have said before with previous models, and it’s still true. Magnum doesn’t have a front or rear light that can be turned on/off with the bike. The rear light must also be manually operated and requires its own battery. Magnum, it’s 2020! Wires exist!
The rack was a great find. It’s sturdy, can hold two panniers, and still has room for a trunk bag or child seat.
There are three factory modes, Normal, Eco, and six levels of Power Assistance. The bike arrived in Power mode, which I found a little ridiculous. It was far too powerful even with PAS 1. I stopped by Electrify to learn how to switch between Eco and Normal settings. Eco was my favorite mode, as it offered a substantial difference between the PAS modes. It could provide power at 20 kmh in PAS 1, and it was enough for me beyond that. The engine didn’t stop abruptly when the power was on. The Eco higher PAS settings still allowed for plenty of top-end power and hill climbing.
The thumb throttle is helpful for taking off, and all bikes equipped with cadence sensors need one. This is due to the slight delay between pressing the pedals and power coming on. This throttle is only for taking off and not for controlling speed with the pedals.
My test ride was 65 km on one charge. I believed I had 614Wh more battery capacity than I actually needed. I was riding along the flat at 40kph, mucking around with roadies, keeping my feet on the forks, and overtaking them. The voltage is the true measure, the battery indicator doesn’t give accurate information. The display was easy to read, and the controls were clear. The gears and brakes worked well. Comfort-wise, the Selle Royal saddle was a good choice. It had some suspension, and the hand grips were nice when dry. They would be slippery if they were wet.
The overall weight of the unit is approximately 25kg. It can be rated to support up to 120kg. The standard warranty is two years. Electrify provides excellent support. You can also purchase the standard warranty from many other outlets.
Who are the Magnum Voyagers and Navigators for?
- Urban riders who are looking for a fast and powerful bike.
- Voyager is for riders who prefer a frame made of diamonds
- Navigator for riders who like a low step
Who isn’t it for?
- Riders who want a more refined ride at twice the cost