Tenways, one of several popular low-cost electric bike brands that have popped up in the US and European markets over the last few years, has updated its popular lightweight commuter e-bike. Just launched today, Tenways’ new Chain Version CGO600 Pro swaps out the single-speed belt we’ve come to know and love for an 8-speed Shimano drivetrain.
Thankfully, the Chain Version CGO600 Pro retains most of what we enjoyed about the original version, which we covered in an in-depth review earlier this year.
The main update on the model appears to be the new chain drivetrain, which employs a Shimano 8-speed setup. However, the Chain Version also gets a new Tenways’ branded C9 350W hub motor, which is rated for the same 350W of power and 45 Nm of torque as the belt drive version’s MiVice hub motor.
The new motor has an “advanced internal clutch mechanism that minimizes friction when the motor is not in use, ensuring a seamless transition between powered and manual riding modes,” explained a statement from Tenways provided to Electrek. “This design offers enhanced energy efficiency, resulting in a 50% longer gliding distance compared to typical hub motors.”
Both bikes still feature the same Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, 700C wheels, and a MiVice torque sensor for more intuitive pedal assist. The bike lacks a throttle, which combined with its 20 mph (32 km/h) top speed, ensures that it slips into the Class 1 e-bike designation.
Powering that 350W motor is a 36V 10Ah battery using LG cells, though there is no word on whether the battery has achieved UL compliance. The smaller 360 Wh capacity helps keep the bike’s total weight down (just 37 lb or 17 kg), yet the efficient pedal assist setup still allows for an impressive range. An OLED display on the handlebars gives riders constant feedback on the battery’s charge level, among other key riding data.
According to Tenways, the Chain Version CGO600 Pro claims a maximum range of 53 miles or 85 km, though that’s likely measured while using its lowest pedal assist power setting. At around 7 Wh/mile, that level of efficiency isn’t often achieved in real-world scenarios unless the rider is on a fitness ride and using as little power from the motor as possible. Even for more average riders who don’t stick to the lowest power setting, at more realistic levels of 15 Wh/mile, the bike should still likely offer a range of around 25 miles or 40 km in higher power modes.
The new model is available in Tenways’ existing color schemes of Avacado Green, Pebble Gray, Midnight Black, and Sky Blue.
Priced at $1,399, the Tenways Chain Version CGO600 Pro is now available online.
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