The Reevo Hubless E-Bike has been making waves in the e-bike world with its radical, futuristic design. Its most striking feature is undoubtedly the hubless wheels, which give the bike an almost otherworldly appearance, reminiscent of something you might see in the upcoming TRON: Ares movie. But does this e-bike live up to the hype, or is it just a pretty face? Let’s take a deep dive into a hands-on review of the Reevo Hubless E-Bike.
Design and Aesthetics
The Reevo’s design is what sets it apart from every other e-bike on the market. The absence of traditional spokes and hubs creates a visually stunning effect, making it look like something straight out of a science fiction film. The sleek, all-black finish adds to the futuristic aesthetic, and the integrated LED lighting within the wheels enhances its visual appeal, particularly at night. It’s not just about looks, though. The design also incorporates a hidden kickstand and a clean handlebar setup, maintaining the minimalist feel.
Key Features and Specifications
The Reevo is packed with innovative features, going beyond its striking appearance. Here’s a breakdown of its key specifications:
- Motor: The U.S. version of the Reevo features a 750W motor, while the European version is equipped with a 250W motor, to comply with local regulations. This in-house-made motor is a necessity, given the hubless design.
- Battery: A 48V lithium-ion battery powers the bike, with a capacity of 10.5 Ah. It takes approximately 3 hours to fully charge.
- Range: On a full charge, the Reevo offers a range of around 37 miles (60 km).
- Speed: The top speed for the US version is 25 mph, while the EU version is limited to 25 kph.
- Weight: The bike weighs approximately 55 lbs (25 kg).
- Wheels: The most noticeable feature, the hubless wheels, are stress-tested to support up to 265 lbs (120 kg).
- Frame Sizes: The Reevo is available in two sizes: S/M for riders 5’3″-5’9″ and M/L for riders 5’9″-6’3″. An XL stem is available for riders taller than 6’3″, for an additional charge.
- Lighting: Integrated 800-lumen LED lights are built into the rims, and an ambient light sensor automatically turns them on in low-light conditions. The lights include turn signals and brake lights for added safety.
Smart Technology
The Reevo is more than just an e-bike; it’s a smart bike. It incorporates several high-tech features:
- Fingerprint Sensor: The bike features a one-touch fingerprint sensor for unlocking, adding an extra layer of security.
- GPS Tracking: Integrated GPS tracking allows you to monitor your bike’s location in case of theft.
- Anti-Theft System: In addition to the fingerprint sensor and GPS, the Reevo boasts a triple-barrier anti-theft system with integrated locks and theft detection.
- Smartphone Integration: A phone cradle allows you to use your smartphone as a digital dashboard.
Riding Experience
Riding the Reevo is a unique experience. The hubless wheels, while visually appealing, do present some trade-offs. Here’s what you can expect:
Pros
- Head-Turning Design: The Reevo is a conversation starter. Its unique design will definitely draw attention wherever you go.
- Integrated Security: The fingerprint sensor, GPS tracking, and anti-theft system provide peace of mind, making it one of the most secure e-bikes on the market.
- Automatic Lights: The integrated lighting and ambient sensor ensure that you are always visible, and that you do not have to worry about turning lights on and off.
- Smooth Ride (on smooth surfaces): On even terrain, the electric motor provides a smooth and enjoyable riding experience.
- Removable Battery: The removable battery makes charging convenient and allows for battery swapping on longer rides.
Cons
- Weight: At 55 lbs, the Reevo is heavier than many other e-bikes, which can make it more difficult to handle, especially when carrying it upstairs or loading it onto a bike rack.
- Ride Quality on Uneven Surfaces: The lack of suspension and airless tires means that the ride can be bumpy on uneven surfaces and that it is not ideal for rough terrain.
- Rolling Resistance: Some users have noted that the Reevo has a relatively high rolling resistance due to the bearings in the hubless wheel system, which means it may not coast as efficiently as other bikes.
- Noise: The bearings in the wheels can also produce more noise than traditional bikes.
- Braking: The Reevo uses caliper brakes, which, though effective, may not be as powerful as disc brakes, particularly for a bike of this weight.
- Battery Charging: The battery must be removed to charge, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- Steering Stem: Some users have found the steering stem to be shorter than ideal, causing them to bend over more than desired while riding.
The Hubless Wheel Design: Engineering Marvel or Practical Flaw?
The most talked-about aspect of the Reevo is its hubless wheel design. While it undoubtedly contributes to the bike’s unique look, it also presents some engineering challenges.
How it Works
The hubless design works with a double rim system. The inner part of the wheel remains fixed, while the second rim rotates on bearings. This setup allows the motor to be integrated directly into the wheel, eliminating the need for a traditional hub.
Trade-Offs
While this design is visually stunning, it does come with trade-offs. Traditional spoked wheels are excellent at absorbing shocks from various directions, and they can be easily trued (adjusted) if they suffer a deformity. Hubless wheels, on the other hand, primarily serve an aesthetic purpose. The Reevo team has had to overcome significant hurdles to mount, brake, and steer these wheels.
Price and Availability
The Reevo Hubless E-Bike was initially launched via an Indiegogo campaign, and it has since become available for purchase. The price varies, but it is generally available for under $3,000.
TRON: Ares Connection
The Reevo’s futuristic design has led many to compare it to the vehicles in the TRON franchise, and especially to the upcoming TRON: Ares movie, scheduled for release on October 10, 2025. The sleek black finish and hubless wheels evoke the same sense of advanced technology and cutting-edge design that defines the TRON universe. TRON: Ares will follow a highly sophisticated Program, Ares, who is sent from the digital world into the real world on a dangerous mission. The movie stars Jared Leto and Jeff Bridges, among others.
Is the Reevo Hubless E-Bike Worth It?
The Reevo Hubless E-Bike is not just a mode of transportation, but a statement piece. If you are someone who values cutting-edge design and unique technology, and are willing to make some trade-offs in terms of ride comfort and practicality, the Reevo might be perfect for you. Its advanced security features, integrated lighting, and smart technology make it a compelling option for urban commuters who want a ride that stands out from the crowd. However, if your main concern is comfort, especially if you ride on rough terrain, or if you prefer a lighter, more traditional e-bike, you might want to consider other options. Ultimately, the Reevo is a bold attempt to redefine e-bike design, and it succeeds in creating a truly unique riding experience.
