HeyBike Mars 2.0 Review

The HeyBike Mars 2.0 meets the much requested improvements from it’s predecessor the Mars. This foldable fat tire electric bike boasts a powerful motor, a compact size and plenty of mounting space for enjoyable rural exploration.

A more compact size when collapsed, bluetooth connectivity to the HeyBike app, an improved rear rack, and an upgraded motor are just a few new features seen on the Mars 2.0. Let’s discuss the features of the HeyBike Mars 2.0 and then our thoughts on who the Mars is right for and how well it rides.

Coming in at around $1500 the HeyBike Mars 2.0 weighs in at 75 pounds and has an overall load capacity of 300 pounds. The Mars 2.0 is a foldable electric bike making it easy store in those tight nooks and crannies of the garage or in your car or RV.

The Mars 2.0 has 20″ x 3″ wide fat tires that offer the right amount of grip when billy goating around out in the woods. There is a new 750w rear hub motor with 80Nm of torque and a peak watt output of 1200 watts.

The 600Wh battery features a usb port to easily charge up your devices while riding. Additionally, with a flip of a lever under the seat, the battery is easily and quickly removable with use of the key to unlock it from the frame. As a foldable bike, being able to remove the battery for storage or transport helps reduce the overall weight. Being able to remove the battery also allows for charging in more accessible areas while storing the bike or traveling.

The Mars 2.0 is a Class 3 electric bike with a maximum pedal assist output of 28mph, with a Class 1 restriction to throttle assist only. In our opinion, the true description of a Class 2 electric bike.

The Mars 2.0 will come as seen in on test with: fenders, a rear rack and lights. The lights have a manual on/off switch located on the handlebars and the tail light will pulse when applying the brakes. This adds additional road safety to alert other riders and cars when out on the road.

There is a front suspension fork which pairs nicely with the fat tires, and a suspension seatpost. Although not a full suspension electric bike, it is rather comfortable while riding around on the bumpy stuff. The fork has 65mm of travel with preload adjustment, as well as a lockout to increase efficiency while on paved routes.

Mechanical disc brakes with 180mm rotors are used to provide stopping power. A Shimano 7-speed drivetrain is outfitted on the Mars 2.0 to offer a good range of gearing.

When it comes to categorizing the Mars 2.0, of course existing Mars owners will gladly find interest in the upgrades seen in this current model. For those browsing for a new electric bike while keeping things budget minded, the HeyBike Mars 2.0 is a great companion for recreational and light duty riding.

The cargo capacity and optional accessories for the Mars 2.0 open up a world of options from casual commuting to exploring lost lakes and creeks out in the woods. The folding nature of the Mars 2.0 we think appeals to those who travel and are looking for an electric bike to become a new companion to offer freer access to remote areas without taking on the physical component of hiking or riding a regular bike out to those areas.

While it does have a higher overall weight compared to other electric bikes that can accomplish the same task, the compact size and transportability of the Mars 2.0 are quite refreshing in practical use. Whether you live in smaller housing or are travel for weeks on end in an RV, transporting and storing a bike of any size comes with it’s drawbacks. I found myself easily able to load it into the back of the Subaru to take out for an afternoon ride. When returning home I could collapse it down and store it under a workbench and save valuable foot space in the garage.

Overall, the Mars 2.0 sees the much need upgrades and quality improvements to its predecessor. It may not be the right bike for everyone but it gets the task done. As an avid cyclist of all disciplines of riding, the Mars 2.0 wasn’t as sporty and aggressive as my personal bikes, but it still brought a smile and was enjoyable to go out exploring. The larger motor is quite powerful and on terrain with sufficient traction, the Mars 2.0 climbed it’s way to the top of whatever I was aiming to ride. When it came to more technical assents the smaller wheel size and general weight made it more of a task to navigate across rocks and roots that are now very slick.

Outfitted with a rear rack, fenders and lights it’s nice to not need to source those essential components for all season riding and being able to bring gear with you. For a $1578, the list of fully outfitted electric bikes is rather short.

The limited suspension can handle quite a bit while riding down gravel roads and bike paths. I found that the suspension seatpost offered the most comfort while riding allowing the fork to be set a touch more on the firm side to have better control.

When it comes to fat tire folding electric bikes the Mars 2.0 is much more a utility bike than it is a commuter. It’s rugged build, heavier weight, and high load capacity encourage you to load it up and have full day adventures.

Price: $1499 1099
Colors: Pumpkin Orange, Dusty Blue, Leather Black, Granite Grey
Weight: 75lbs
Website: heybike.com