This cargo e-bike has a heavy-duty rear rack integrated into the aluminum frame. While that contributes to its heavy weight (74 pounds), it gives the rider a sturdy structure to carry boxes, bags, other containers, or even people. It has thick tires, a long wheelbase, and a powerful motor, all of which help make it able to carry up to 450 pounds.
The 750-watt hub-mounted motor is powered by a 960 watt-hour (20 amp-hour, 48 volt) externally mounted, removable battery that is attached to the back of the seatpost tube. The top assist speed is 20 mph, and the bike can quickly move along on flat surfaces or hills thanks to the powerful motor. There is a seven-speed Shimano drivetrain with a single 46-tooth front chainring.
There are five pedal-assist modes in addition to the “no-assist” mode, where the CG2 is powered just by the rider’s legs. Each assist mode has a speed limit, with the top mode unleashing the full 20 mph. So while a rider with an unladen bike may be fine climbing a hill with the first or second assistance level engaged, those carrying cargo may want to ramp up to level five to maintain speed with other cyclists around them. The claimed electric range is between 45 and 75 miles, depending on how much assistance is used. In our testing, we achieved a range of almost 28 miles riding a combination of hills and flats with full assistance at the highest level.
While the CG2 only comes in one size, the stem angle can be adjusted so that riders between 5’1” and 6’4” can fit the bike, according to Mooncool.
The CG2 features a twist throttle on the right side of the handlebar, just inboard from the grip. It’s possible for riders new to the bike or used to a lever-type throttle to twist the throttle without knowing its function, which could put them in danger. Fortunately, the brakes have an electrical cut-off function, which stops electric assistance when the levers are pulled.
On the left side of the handlebars is a small monochromatic screen that displays battery life, power assist mode, the level of power being used, and speed, among other functions. It can be slightly awkward for the rider to adjust the boost level with their thumb when holding on to the handlebar.
Standard features include a headlight, a taillight with integrated turn signals, and a horn.
Riders who plan to use the bike instead of a car for commuting or around-town chores and travel will appreciate the numerous attachment points on the front of the head tube, the forks, and the rear of the bike for hanging bike bags. Cargo baskets can be mounted to the front under the handlebars and on the cargo rack itself. Or, two small seats can be mounted on the rack to carry small children.
On flat, smooth surface,s the ride is pretty compliant, thanks to the 20-inch tall, 3.5-inch wide tires. While they can soak up some of the impact from small cracks and bumps, the bike is still fairly stiff. The lack of any suspension means that most impacts punch through to the rider as harsh jolts. The thick padded saddle helps a bit, but the impacts are also transmitted through the handlebars to the rider’s hands and arms.
That soft, wide, and somewhat stubby saddle may cause some chafing on some riders’ inner legs, depending on their size and clothing. The pedals aren’t particularly grippy, so it could be easy to slip off one when pedaling vigorously. It takes some strength and effort to rock the bike onto the double-leg fork kickstand.
