Rattan LM-750 Electric Bike Review: A Year of Reliable, Fun Riding

Introduction: Discovering the Rattan LM-750

When it comes to electric bikes, there's no shortage of options on the market. But for Bob and Karri, a couple in their 50s looking to add a little more adventure and mobility to their lives, the Rattan LM-750 stood out as a clear winner. After a year of putting these bikes through their paces across Florida, the East Coast, and beyond, Bob and Karri are back with a comprehensive review - the good, the bad, and everything in between.

Unlike many electric bike reviews out there, Bob and Karri didn't receive these bikes for free. They paid for them out of their own pockets, giving them a unique perspective on the real-world ownership experience. From the initial setup to the daily use and any necessary upgrades, this review offers an unbiased, "no BS" look at life with the Rattan LM-750.

Key Features of the Rattan LM-750

The Rattan LM-750 is a powerful, feature-packed electric bike that offers a lot of bang for your buck. Some of the standout features include:

- Powerful 750W Motor: The LM-750 is equipped with a 750-watt brushless rear hub motor, providing ample power for tackling hills and longer rides.
- Long-Range Battery: The included 48V, 15Ah lithium-ion battery delivers up to 50 miles of range on a single charge, more than enough for most daily commutes or recreational rides.
- Sturdy, Foldable Design: The LM-750 features a durable, folding frame that makes it easy to transport and store, whether you're loading it into a vehicle or keeping it in your home.
- Integrated Lighting: Bright LED headlights and taillights come standard, ensuring you can ride safely in low-light conditions.
- Throttle and Pedal Assist: Riders can choose between using the thumb throttle for on-demand power or the five-level pedal assist system for a more natural, exercise-focused ride.

Initial Impressions and Setup

When Bob and Karri first unboxed their Rattan LM-750 bikes, they were immediately impressed by the quality of the components and the overall design. The bikes arrived fully assembled, requiring only minor adjustments to the handlebars, seat, and pedals before they were ready to hit the road.

One area that did require some attention was the tires. As Bob noted, the stock tires on the LM-750 are "incredibly thin" and prone to punctures. To address this, he and Karri opted to install slime-filled inner tubes, a simple upgrade that has helped prevent flats and keep them rolling with confidence.

Upgrading and Customizing the Rattan LM-750

While the Rattan LM-750 comes well-equipped out of the box, Bob and Karri found a few key upgrades that have enhanced their riding experience:

- Comfortable Seat Upgrade: The stock seat on Bob's bike was quickly deemed "trash" and replaced with a Whit-cop Medicus seat, which offers better cushioning and breathability.
- Convenient Cup Holder: A swiveling cup holder was added to provide a secure place to hold drinks during their rides.
- Smartphone Mount: A retractable phone mount allows Bob and Karri to easily access GPS navigation and other apps while on the go.
- Rear Storage Bag: A Sahu-branded rear bag system provides ample storage space for carrying essentials during longer rides or trips.

One upgrade that proved particularly important was the addition of side mirrors. As Bob explains, "In real estate, the handlebar becomes very crowded very quickly," so the folding mirrors have been invaluable for keeping an eye on Karri when riding together.

Riding Experience and Performance

After a year of putting the Rattan LM-750 through its paces, Bob and Karri have been consistently impressed by the bike's performance and reliability. Whether tackling the hills of Maine, the flat roads of Florida, or the bike paths of Disney's Fort Wilderness, the LM-750 has proven to be a capable and enjoyable ride.

The powerful 750-watt motor provides ample acceleration and hill-climbing ability, while the five-level pedal assist system allows riders to find the perfect balance of electric power and physical exertion. Bob and Karri have found the 50-mile range to be more than sufficient for their typical riding needs, with the ability to recharge the battery quickly using the included charger.

One aspect of the riding experience that took some getting used to was the bike's folding mechanism and overall size. As Bob notes, "Folding them up, it's not very difficult, but they're heavy bikes, these are tall bikes, and putting something like this into the back of a truck could be kind of a pain."

To address the storage and transportation challenges, Bob and Karri initially invested in large plastic storage totes to house the folded bikes. However, they found these totes to be less than ideal, as they would often break down due to the weight and size of the bikes. Their solution? Utilizing the anchor points in the back of their truck to securely strap the folded bikes in place, keeping them protected and readily available for impromptu rides.

Reliability and Customer Support

One of the key concerns with any electric bike purchase is the reliability of the components and the quality of the customer support. In this regard, Bob and Karri have had a mixed experience with the Rattan LM-750.

Early on, they encountered an issue with the motor on Karri's bike, which required a replacement part. The communication and process with the manufacturer in China was, in Bob's words, "lengthy and a communication barrier." However, the company ultimately made good on their promise, sending a replacement motor and even offering a contribution towards the cost of having it installed.

Aside from this initial hiccup, Bob and Karri have been pleased with the overall reliability of the Rattan LM-750. The brakes, paint, and other components have held up well over the course of a year's worth of regular use. The only minor issue they've encountered is the stock bell, which Bob jokingly describes as "might as well be and that is the bell that came with it."

Would They Buy the Rattan LM-750 Again?

The ultimate question for any product review is whether the reviewer would purchase the item again. In the case of the Rattan LM-750, Bob and Karri's answer is a resounding "yes."

As Bob explains, "I would and I think hands down over are dealing with the people at electric bike, I just don't trust them." He cites their previous negative experiences with other electric bike companies as a key factor in their decision to stick with Rattan.

Beyond the reliability and customer support, Bob and Karri have found the Rattan LM-750 to be an excellent value proposition. At around $1,200 per bike, they feel they've gotten their money's worth, especially when considering the cost savings of not having to rent golf carts or other transportation during their travels.

Conclusion: A Reliable, Fun Electric Bike for Active Older Adults

After a year of ownership, Bob and Karri's enthusiasm for the Rattan LM-750 electric bike remains strong. These bikes have become an integral part of their active lifestyle, providing them with a fun, convenient, and reliable way to explore their surroundings, whether it's the streets of Key West, the bike paths of Disney's Fort Wilderness, or the roads of their home state of Florida.

While the Rattan LM-750 may not be the perfect fit for younger or shorter riders, it's an excellent choice for active older adults like Bob and Karri who are looking to add a little extra mobility and adventure to their lives. With its powerful motor, long-range battery, and durable, foldable design, the LM-750 delivers on its promise of being a versatile, high-quality electric bike that can keep up with your adventures.

So, if you're in the market for an electric bike that can provide a fun, reliable, and cost-effective transportation solution, the Rattan LM-750 is definitely worth a closer look. Just be sure to factor in a few key upgrades, like slime-filled tires and a comfortable seat, to truly optimize your riding experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

- What is the weight capacity of the Rattan LM-750? The manufacturer lists a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs for the LM-750.
- Can the Rattan LM-750 be used by shorter riders? Bob and Karri note that the LM-750 may not be the best fit for riders under 5'5" due to the bike's tall frame and high seat.
- How long does it take to charge the Rattan LM-750 battery? According to Bob and Karri, the included charger can fully recharge the 48V, 15Ah battery in a relatively short amount of time, allowing them to get back on the road quickly.
- Are there any accessories or upgrades you recommend for the Rattan LM-750? In addition to the upgrades mentioned in the review, Bob and Karri suggest considering a more powerful headlight, a better bell, and potentially a suspension seat post for added comfort.

For more information on the Rattan LM-750 and Bob and Karri's adventures, be sure to check out their YouTube channel and Amazon storefront, where they share their honest, real-world experiences with this and other products they use in their daily lives.