BikeRide, appreciate the detailed review of the QuietKat Jeep Rubicon. I'm sold on QuietKat, but I'm not sure which model/drivetrain is best for my use cases (yet). I really like the Ranger AWD with dual electric hub motors, one in each tire, and capability to select motor usages, however, it's single speed drivetrain without a derailleur. I also like the APEX Pro with mid-drive motor, no electric hub motors in the wheels and this has a 9-speed drivetrain with derailleur. My questions are: What are the Pros/Cons for single speed drivetrain with no derailleurs, and e-hubs in each wheel? What are the Pros/Cons for mid-drive motors which rely on the bike chain for torque to drive the wheels? I'm leaning to Ranger AWD because even if you lose/break the bike chain, you can still use the hub motors to get out. Other thoughts?
Thanks for the questions! I have not had a chance to ride a dual-motor e-bike yet and I have not ridden either of the bikes mentioned. So I cannot comment directly on the bikes, but I can offer some info. Most hub motors feature planetary gearing, which allows the motor to automatically offer different gearing ratios for riding at different speeds. They also may use a direct drive hub motor, which can attain higher speeds and does not require gearing. (similar to the motors used on electric vehicles.) This is all taken care of by the motor. I have ridden several bikes that offer belt-driven drivetrains with no traditional gearing, and they are comfortable and straightforward to ride. The main benefit is reduced maintenance on the drivetrain. The main problem with these style bikes often comes with steep hills, where the motor needs to provide most of the power. This would be significantly improved by adding the second hub motor to the front wheel. The Ranger AWD uses dual 750W motors, which should be more then enough power to climb any hills so I would not worry much about climbing ability with this bike, it should have lots of power and torque even at grades above 12 degrees. The main thing I would focus on is whether you would like an e-bike that feels and pedals more like a traditional bike (Apex Pro Mid-Drive) or if you are interested in using the throttle and having performance more in line with an e-dirtbike. (Ranger AWD) as well as the benefit you mentioned of being able to get out with only motor power. When riding and climbing technical terrain, tight trails or slippery substraights I prefer a mid-drive motor. I find the performance is very enjoyable as a MTB rider, and it allows you to carefully climb terrain that a mid-drive motor may spin out on. You do need to be mindful of gearing though, tearing into a steep hill in a low gear will put a lot of strain on the chain and is a perfect combo for broken links. An easy fix is to carry quick links for your chain and a chain breaker; many MTB riders do this for traditional bikes when traveling in the backcountry. If you ride more on the road, larger forest service roads, and dirt/desert paths, then a hub motor is going to reduce your pedaling significantly. It will also be much easier to use the throttle.
@@BikeRidecom Appreciate your reply, and you make an excellent point about the mid-drive gearing on steeps and the chain strain! What are the best practices to avoid chain-strain if you have not made the gearing changes in time? Lift the rear end up and make gearing changes while pedaling bike with 1 foot, or just turn around, go down the hill a little ways, adjust gearing, then head back up the steep hill? I guess much of this depends on bike weight if it's holding heavy cargo.
@@tombenedettoaccount No problem! You are 100% on both options if you happen to hit a hill in the wrong gear, with e-bikes I tend to use option 2, either turning around for a short distance, or even traveling across the hill rather then up if I'm on a wide enough road to change gears to limit the amount of force being placed on the drivetrain since its less effort then hopping off the bike with the e-power to push you back up again
This was shot on the Sunshine Coast in BC. Canada has a varied set of laws concerning electric bikes and it can be confusing. The USA does a better job of defining the types of bikes, and locations you can ride them legally. Class 1-3 bikes and unrestricted. That being said, there are different laws in different states. The version we had was 1000W nominal and treated in a similar fashion to an offroad dirtbike. The original Jeep e-bike is also available as a 750W version
Other than Himiway Cobra Pro, there are two more virtually identical bikes - the Eunorau Specter S and the Biktrix Juggernaut FS Pro 3. But, unlike the Rubicon, all these three come with 180 mm brakes. Otherwise, no difference between them all.
Check out the QuietKat Ibex, it's the current model equivalent to the Jeep quietkat.com/collections/quietkat-ebikes/products/ibex The Jeep was a limited partnership with Jeep for those models, and they have all sold out. The IBEX is the current full suspension bike from QK and it has many of the same features and components.
Unfortunately, the UK only allows pedal assist bikes which "must have a maximum power output of 250 watts and should not be able to propel the bike when it’s traveling more than 15.5mph" This limits the bikes available considerably. You may be able to purchase the bike in the US and privately ship it to the UK, but I do not know how you would license it. or where you would be able to ride (if you could ride it) it would probably be considered a motorbike.
@BikeRidecom If I can get my hands on it, we can find out about the licensing and legalities of riding it, if and when they pull me over 😉. I'll keep looking, thanks for the response.
I wouldn't be on any main roads any ways. I really just want it for mountains, forest and beaches. Love the full suspension with fat tyre combination, looks like a very comfortable ride.
@@dexterousd It was very comfortable and impressive on mountain roads and trails. For the range test we went straight up a mountain and back down, and it performed very well! Technically this bike is not road legal in north America as well, but many use the same logic. It seems many e-bike regulations are falling behind and need to catch up!
Thanks! We had to send this bike back to QuietKat (we are sad about it too) so I do not have the bike on hand to check. The 26X4" tires performed well in all conditions though, offering good float in loose sand, snow, and slush. A 5" tire would be massive! Let us know if anyone has put one on a bike and send a video!
The bike runs a set of 26" rims, which can have a slightly smaller tire put on them, but it's also a little-known fact that this Jeep Rubicon can also have a 29'er rim placed on it. If you go with a 30-35mm rim as opposed to this wide rim, you can put a traditional 29X2.4"-2.6" wheelset on the bike making it less burley and large
Thinking of getting the Rubicon? Check out the website for a 5% discount, with the current sale we are seeing a low price of $4274.05 compared to a normal price over 6.5k! www.bikeride.com/quietkat-jeep-rubicon/
That is a ton of torque on the chain.. I would prefer to have it to be belt driven.. Even if rocks or dust get in the chain it can create havoc.. The other thing that isn't mentioned is how far you can go with the battery and if you should bring another battery along just in case..
Battery Range Test 24:16 The battery will power the unit for 28 Miles (including 2,952ft elevation change) over mixed offroad terrain operating at Boost (max) power assist. This will depend on the load, terrain and other factors such as temp but it is a great range! Regarding chain Vs belt, so long as the chain is rated for the torque there is no issue. This system operates well, and with proper use will show no issue. Belts will not offer superior torque resistance in comparison to chains. In this case a belt drive would also not allow the bike to use a traditional derailer and cassette. Many belt drive bikes are single speed.
@@darinsmith2458 You are correct, and thats the core reason we do not see a belt drive on mid-drive motors like the QuietKat. Because it is a mid-drive and ulitizes a derailer it requires the chain, and also having that chain allows you to swap wheel-sets to a 29" MTB wheel. At its core belt drive systems are amazing, but they are also expensive and require the bike to be built around that belt drive. I think the key reason QuietKat did not go with a belt drive and internal gearing is the expense, and ability to offer a drivetrain very similar to what many MTB riders would see. Although it may require more maintenance it does allow you to swap drivetrain components and wheel sets more easily, and maintenance is in general simpler and less expensive, despite being more frequent with the exposed gearing. Tire and tube changes are also easier and feel very similar to a traditional bike.
It is a beast thanks! It is currently 6500$ usd but you can score on the cousin the Jeep e-bike for 2999.00! www.bikeride.com/jeep-e-bike/ check it out on the website for the best price. The Rubicon manages to get a range test of 30 miles and 3000 ft of elevation change which is straight up a mountain, exploring technical tight trails, and coming back down again in cold temps with snow cover. So it was very impressive! If you are looking for a bike to take into the backcountry this is more then enough, but it is heavy.
I agree the bike is expensive, and this does put it in the same arena as well known MTB brands. QuietKat does bring some features, like the 1000W motor, attachment points for a game cart and massive tire set that make it purpose built to hunt. The battery is also larger then many E-MTB battery's. IMO it comes down to use, those looking to hunt and explore and want to have the Jeep name will accept the high price. But like you mention you have a ton of options for other bikes In the same price range that will exceed the performance of the Rubicon on advanced singletrack. If you are looking for a E-MTB, something for enduro or all mountain riding this is not the bike.
@@roberthunt3996 We also have a 5% discount if you visit the review page on top of that bringing the current price down to $4274.05 www.bikeride.com/quietkat-jeep-rubicon/ Great time to buy!
@@matthewmatzner4930 I used a promo code. I just checked, and looks like it has expired, sorry, you might try calling and asking for one... Also, I dont like how mine did not come with the updated firmware allowing for their vpo system and torque sensor to work as was advertised right on the rubicon pages. Grrr. Finally, all they have is size medium now. I will say that my hillclimb torture test was looking quite good as far as range on lowest assist level goes. But still haven't taken it off pavement tho as I might return it although come to find out the shipping is way higher than i anticipated. Oh and the bike weighs 85lbs, not the 75 they advertise, must be some b.s. where they dont weigh it with battery.
"Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life_think of it, dream of it, live on that idea. Let the brain, muscles, nerves, every part of your body, be full of that idea, and just leave every other idea alone. This is the way to success." _Swami Vivekananda
Hey now! This is a great review of a sweet bike! Keep it up!
Thanks! The Rubicon was a ton of fun to test out on the trail.
BikeRide, appreciate the detailed review of the QuietKat Jeep Rubicon.
I'm sold on QuietKat, but I'm not sure which model/drivetrain is best for my use cases (yet).
I really like the Ranger AWD with dual electric hub motors, one in each tire, and capability to select motor usages, however, it's single speed drivetrain without a derailleur.
I also like the APEX Pro with mid-drive motor, no electric hub motors in the wheels and this has a 9-speed drivetrain with derailleur.
My questions are:
What are the Pros/Cons for single speed drivetrain with no derailleurs, and e-hubs in each wheel?
What are the Pros/Cons for mid-drive motors which rely on the bike chain for torque to drive the wheels?
I'm leaning to Ranger AWD because even if you lose/break the bike chain, you can still use the hub motors to get out.
Other thoughts?
Thanks for the questions! I have not had a chance to ride a dual-motor e-bike yet and I have not ridden either of the bikes mentioned. So I cannot comment directly on the bikes, but I can offer some info.
Most hub motors feature planetary gearing, which allows the motor to automatically offer different gearing ratios for riding at different speeds. They also may use a direct drive hub motor, which can attain higher speeds and does not require gearing. (similar to the motors used on electric vehicles.) This is all taken care of by the motor. I have ridden several bikes that offer belt-driven drivetrains with no traditional gearing, and they are comfortable and straightforward to ride. The main benefit is reduced maintenance on the drivetrain.
The main problem with these style bikes often comes with steep hills, where the motor needs to provide most of the power. This would be significantly improved by adding the second hub motor to the front wheel. The Ranger AWD uses dual 750W motors, which should be more then enough power to climb any hills so I would not worry much about climbing ability with this bike, it should have lots of power and torque even at grades above 12 degrees.
The main thing I would focus on is whether you would like an e-bike that feels and pedals more like a traditional bike (Apex Pro Mid-Drive) or if you are interested in using the throttle and having performance more in line with an e-dirtbike. (Ranger AWD) as well as the benefit you mentioned of being able to get out with only motor power.
When riding and climbing technical terrain, tight trails or slippery substraights I prefer a mid-drive motor. I find the performance is very enjoyable as a MTB rider, and it allows you to carefully climb terrain that a mid-drive motor may spin out on. You do need to be mindful of gearing though, tearing into a steep hill in a low gear will put a lot of strain on the chain and is a perfect combo for broken links. An easy fix is to carry quick links for your chain and a chain breaker; many MTB riders do this for traditional bikes when traveling in the backcountry.
If you ride more on the road, larger forest service roads, and dirt/desert paths, then a hub motor is going to reduce your pedaling significantly. It will also be much easier to use the throttle.
@@BikeRidecom Appreciate your reply, and you make an excellent point about the mid-drive gearing on steeps and the chain strain!
What are the best practices to avoid chain-strain if you have not made the gearing changes in time?
Lift the rear end up and make gearing changes while pedaling bike with 1 foot, or just turn around, go down the hill a little ways, adjust gearing, then head back up the steep hill? I guess much of this depends on bike weight if it's holding heavy cargo.
@@tombenedettoaccount No problem! You are 100% on both options if you happen to hit a hill in the wrong gear, with e-bikes I tend to use option 2, either turning around for a short distance, or even traveling across the hill rather then up if I'm on a wide enough road to change gears to limit the amount of force being placed on the drivetrain since its less effort then hopping off the bike with the e-power to push you back up again
Nice! I just picked up a QuietKat Ibex … same drivetrain, different rear suspension geometry.
Awesome! How is the Ibex running for you so far? We are looking forward to testing some of the other bikes from the QuietKat lineup soon!
@@BikeRidecomrunning great, had it up to 52mph😂
Looks very similar to the Himiway cobra pro. Where are you located?I was unaware of the restricted use bikes for what Is road legal and what’s not.
This was shot on the Sunshine Coast in BC. Canada has a varied set of laws concerning electric bikes and it can be confusing. The USA does a better job of defining the types of bikes, and locations you can ride them legally. Class 1-3 bikes and unrestricted. That being said, there are different laws in different states. The version we had was 1000W nominal and treated in a similar fashion to an offroad dirtbike. The original Jeep e-bike is also available as a 750W version
Other than Himiway Cobra Pro, there are two more virtually identical bikes - the Eunorau Specter S and the Biktrix Juggernaut FS Pro 3. But, unlike the Rubicon, all these three come with 180 mm brakes. Otherwise, no difference between them all.
Also Frey. Clone.
Nice video.👍 Where are you riding? Looks like the PNW. Nice job.
Thanks! This video was filmed outside of Vancouver B.C. on the coast, with some great riding in the area!
What happened to the Jeep Ebikes??? I don't see them on Quietkat's website anymore. are they discontinued???
Check out the QuietKat Ibex, it's the current model equivalent to the Jeep quietkat.com/collections/quietkat-ebikes/products/ibex
The Jeep was a limited partnership with Jeep for those models, and they have all sold out.
The IBEX is the current full suspension bike from QK and it has many of the same features and components.
Is there any European retailers that sell this? Or American retailers that ship to the UK?
Unfortunately, the UK only allows pedal assist bikes which "must have a maximum power output of 250 watts and should not be able to propel the bike when it’s traveling more than 15.5mph"
This limits the bikes available considerably. You may be able to purchase the bike in the US and privately ship it to the UK, but I do not know how you would license it. or where you would be able to ride (if you could ride it) it would probably be considered a motorbike.
@BikeRidecom If I can get my hands on it, we can find out about the licensing and legalities of riding it, if and when they pull me over 😉. I'll keep looking, thanks for the response.
I wouldn't be on any main roads any ways. I really just want it for mountains, forest and beaches. Love the full suspension with fat tyre combination, looks like a very comfortable ride.
@@dexterousd It was very comfortable and impressive on mountain roads and trails. For the range test we went straight up a mountain and back down, and it performed very well! Technically this bike is not road legal in north America as well, but many use the same logic. It seems many e-bike regulations are falling behind and need to catch up!
@@dexterousd did you manage to find one in the UK? I was probably about to buy a Zebra but now this video popped up! Cheers 👍
Great review. Will this fit a pair of 26×5.0 tires? Thank you.
Thanks! We had to send this bike back to QuietKat (we are sad about it too) so I do not have the bike on hand to check. The 26X4" tires performed well in all conditions though, offering good float in loose sand, snow, and slush. A 5" tire would be massive! Let us know if anyone has put one on a bike and send a video!
@@BikeRidecom thanks for the reply.
Wish they made a lighter version of this bike with 27.5+ tires. Anyone have suggestions?
The bike runs a set of 26" rims, which can have a slightly smaller tire put on them, but it's also a little-known fact that this Jeep Rubicon can also have a 29'er rim placed on it. If you go with a 30-35mm rim as opposed to this wide rim, you can put a traditional 29X2.4"-2.6" wheelset on the bike making it less burley and large
Thinking of getting the Rubicon? Check out the website for a 5% discount, with the current sale we are seeing a low price of $4274.05 compared to a normal price over 6.5k! www.bikeride.com/quietkat-jeep-rubicon/
That is a ton of torque on the chain.. I would prefer to have it to be belt driven.. Even if rocks or dust get in the chain it can create havoc..
The other thing that isn't mentioned is how far you can go with the battery and if you should bring another battery along just in case..
Battery Range Test 24:16
The battery will power the unit for 28 Miles (including 2,952ft elevation change) over mixed offroad terrain operating at Boost (max) power assist. This will depend on the load, terrain and other factors such as temp but it is a great range!
Regarding chain Vs belt, so long as the chain is rated for the torque there is no issue. This system operates well, and with proper use will show no issue. Belts will not offer superior torque resistance in comparison to chains. In this case a belt drive would also not allow the bike to use a traditional derailer and cassette. Many belt drive bikes are single speed.
@@BikeRidecom I thought the belt drives had the gearing in the hub..
@@darinsmith2458 You are correct, and thats the core reason we do not see a belt drive on mid-drive motors like the QuietKat. Because it is a mid-drive and ulitizes a derailer it requires the chain, and also having that chain allows you to swap wheel-sets to a 29" MTB wheel.
At its core belt drive systems are amazing, but they are also expensive and require the bike to be built around that belt drive. I think the key reason QuietKat did not go with a belt drive and internal gearing is the expense, and ability to offer a drivetrain very similar to what many MTB riders would see. Although it may require more maintenance it does allow you to swap drivetrain components and wheel sets more easily, and maintenance is in general simpler and less expensive, despite being more frequent with the exposed gearing.
Tire and tube changes are also easier and feel very similar to a traditional bike.
Looks like a beast
How much is this bike going for
Also what is the range
It is a beast thanks! It is currently 6500$ usd but you can score on the cousin the Jeep e-bike for 2999.00! www.bikeride.com/jeep-e-bike/ check it out on the website for the best price.
The Rubicon manages to get a range test of 30 miles and 3000 ft of elevation change which is straight up a mountain, exploring technical tight trails, and coming back down again in cold temps with snow cover. So it was very impressive! If you are looking for a bike to take into the backcountry this is more then enough, but it is heavy.
I got one! OMG I feel like a bird flying through the woods.
Hey get the 40 ish dollar seat post spring shock....No BUmps
A CADILLAC Mt Bike LOL
$4200 would be fair, 6500 your in Specialized and Trek territory.
I agree the bike is expensive, and this does put it in the same arena as well known MTB brands. QuietKat does bring some features, like the 1000W motor, attachment points for a game cart and massive tire set that make it purpose built to hunt. The battery is also larger then many E-MTB battery's.
IMO it comes down to use, those looking to hunt and explore and want to have the Jeep name will accept the high price. But like you mention you have a ton of options for other bikes In the same price range that will exceed the performance of the Rubicon on advanced singletrack. If you are looking for a E-MTB, something for enduro or all mountain riding this is not the bike.
It's on sale now for $4499
@@roberthunt3996 We also have a 5% discount if you visit the review page on top of that bringing the current price down to $4274.05 www.bikeride.com/quietkat-jeep-rubicon/ Great time to buy!
6,500 dollars!!!😂
You can keep it.
Got mine for $2,729.35 but they're out of size L.
Let us know how the rides go!
Where’d you get it for that price?
@@vagitarian68419 direct from quietkat
Any more information on how you got it for that price would be greatly appreciated as I’m considering buying two of them this week.
@@matthewmatzner4930 I used a promo code. I just checked, and looks like it has expired, sorry, you might try calling and asking for one... Also, I dont like how mine did not come with the updated firmware allowing for their vpo system and torque sensor to work as was advertised right on the rubicon pages. Grrr. Finally, all they have is size medium now. I will say that my hillclimb torture test was looking quite good as far as range on lowest assist level goes. But still haven't taken it off pavement tho as I might return it although come to find out the shipping is way higher than i anticipated. Oh and the bike weighs 85lbs, not the 75 they advertise, must be some b.s. where they dont weigh it with battery.
"Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life_think of it, dream of it, live on that idea. Let the brain, muscles, nerves, every part of your body, be full of that idea, and just leave every other idea alone. This is the way to success." _Swami Vivekananda