Tezeus Swift
Tezeus Swift
Is Tezeus Swift the LIGHTWEIGHT King of Folding Ebikes?
This eBike stands out thanks to its lightweight carbon fiber frame, full suspension system, and folding capability, making it an ideal choice for city dwellers who need a compact yet powerful ride. In this comprehensive review, we will explore everything you need to know about the Tezeus Swift, from its technical specifications to real-world performance and user experience.
Lightweight Carbon Fiber Frame
One of the defining features of the Tezeus Swift is its ultra-light carbon fiber construction. Weighing only 36 pounds, this bike is easier to carry and maneuver compared to traditional electric bikes, which often weigh significantly more. Despite its light weight, the Swift supports a maximum payload of 264 pounds, making it suitable for a wide range of riders.
Full Suspension and Comfort
The Swift’s full suspension setup includes a DNM rear shock with adjustable air pressure, allowing riders to tailor the ride quality to their weight and road conditions. This feature enhances comfort, especially on uneven pavement or light off-road trails. The bike also features a narrow low-profile seat with a comfort groove, designed to balance support and comfort during longer rides.
Folding Design for Portability
Designed with urban mobility in mind, the Tezeus Swift folds down compactly to dimensions of 32 inches long, 28 inches tall, and 16 inches wide. Its foldable pedals and quick-release seat clamp add to the convenience, allowing users to quickly collapse the bike for storage or public transportation. Magnetic bits on the rear keep the folded bike secure and compact for easy carrying.
Powerful Motor and Battery System
Equipped with a 36V 250W rear hub motor, the Swift delivers a peak power output of 317 watts and 30 Newton-meters of torque. It features a seven-speed Shimano transmission that offers smooth shifting for various terrains and speeds. The battery is cleverly integrated into the seat post, a 36V 7Ah unit providing 252Wh of power. Riders can expect up to 37 miles of range on a single charge under optimal conditions.
Pedal Assist and Throttle Options
The Swift comes as a Class 2 eBike in most markets, featuring a thumb throttle that allows speeds up to 20 mph in the US or 15 mph in the EU. The pre-production model reviewed here is limited to Class 1 with no throttle, but the standard version includes five levels of pedal assist and a sensor system that automatically switches between torque and cadence sensing. This setup ensures smooth power delivery based on riding style and effort.
Safety and Additional Features
Stopping power is provided by Shimano two-piston hydraulic brakes with 160 mm rotors, ensuring reliable and responsive braking. The 20×1.95-inch CST tires feature a street-friendly tread pattern optimized for urban environments. The Swift is UL 2271 certified for battery safety and has an IP65 rating, meaning it can withstand low-pressure water streams, making it suitable for light rain conditions.
Frame and Suspension
The carbon fiber frame not only reduces weight but also improves the bike’s overall stiffness and ride quality. The rear DNM shock is air-adjustable, allowing riders to set the suspension pressure according to their weight—for example, a rider weighing 225 lbs can adjust the shock to 120 PSI for optimal comfort. This suspension helps absorb bumps and uneven surfaces, making city rides smoother.
Drivetrain and Gearing
The Shimano seven-speed derailleur paired with a 52-tooth chainring provides a good range of gears for urban commuting and moderate hill climbing. However, some riders might find the gear ratio slightly limiting when trying to maintain higher speeds near the 20 mph limit, suggesting that a larger chainring could improve performance.
Battery Integration and Charging
The Swift’s battery is housed within the seat post, which can be removed for off-bike charging. It takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours to fully charge using the included 2-amp charger. The battery lock mechanism requires lowering the seat post and unlocking it with keys, which adds security but requires a few steps for removal.
Controls and Display
The bike features a full-color display integrated into the stem, providing clear information on speed, battery level, pedal assist, and trip data. The control panel includes intuitive buttons for adjusting pedal assist levels, turning on the headlight, and accessing trip stats. A walk mode is available, offering motor assistance at low speed for pushing the bike uphill or through tricky terrain.
Urban Commuting and Maneuverability
Thanks to its lightweight design and nimble handling, the Tezeus Swift excels in traffic-heavy urban environments. The wider handlebars, compared to typical folding bikes, offer better control and a more stable ride. Riders can easily weave through crowded streets and tight spaces without feeling cramped or unstable.
Speed and Power Delivery
The torque sensor system responds immediately when pedaling, providing smooth and natural power assistance. While the throttle was not tested on the pre-production model, it is expected to provide easy acceleration up to 20 mph. During testing, the bike reached speeds of up to 23 mph, slightly exceeding the stated limit, which reflects the motor’s responsiveness.
Battery Range and Endurance
Under normal city riding conditions and moderate pedal assist, the Swift can deliver close to its advertised 37-mile range. However, heavier riders or those frequently climbing steep hills may experience reduced range, as demonstrated during the review with a 225-pound rider covering just under 20 miles after rigorous testing including hills, sand, and brake tests.
Comfort and Suspension Performance
The adjustable rear shock significantly improves ride comfort on rough urban roads and light trails. Although the bike is not designed for aggressive off-road use, it can handle occasional park paths and uneven surfaces comfortably. The suspension absorbs bumps effectively, reducing rider fatigue.
Limitations: Off-Road and Sand Riding
While the Swift performs well on paved roads and light trails, its small 20-inch tires and lightweight frame limit performance in sandy or very rough conditions. Testing confirmed that the bike struggles in sand, making it unsuitable for beach riding or off-road adventures.
Folding and Portability
The folding mechanism is straightforward and quick, aided by the bike’s light weight. This makes it ideal for commuters who need to combine biking with public transit or store their bike in small apartments or offices. The compact folded size also facilitates easy transport in car trunks or storage lockers.
Fit and Rider Compatibility
The Swift fits riders from approximately 4’11″ to 6’5″, accommodating a wide range of heights. Seat height is adjustable, though the seat post must not be lowered beyond a certain point to avoid battery damage. The bike’s geometry encourages an upright riding position, suited for casual commuting rather than aggressive or sporty riding styles.
Maintenance and Durability
Some creaking noises were noted during testing—common with carbon fiber frames but worth monitoring. Cable management is excellent, with all wiring hidden inside the frame, contributing to a clean look and reduced wear. Hydraulic brakes and Shimano components ensure reliable maintenance with routine care.
Conclusion: Is the Teasia Swift Worth It?
The Tezeus Swift is an excellent choice for urban commuters seeking a lightweight, compact, and stylish eBike. Its carbon fiber frame, full suspension, and folding design make it stand out in the crowded eBike market. While it’s not designed for rugged off-road use, it offers comfortable, nimble, and efficient performance on city streets and bike paths.
Riders who value portability and ease of use will appreciate the Swift’s folding mechanism and integrated battery system. The 20 mph top speed and five pedal assist levels cover most commuting needs, while the responsive torque sensor ensures a natural riding experience. Although the pre-production model lacks a throttle, the retail versions include this feature, adding convenience for riders.
If you live in a metropolitan area and want a high-quality, lightweight electric bike that folds for easy storage and transport, the Teasia Swift should be on your shortlist. Its blend of carbon fiber technology, thoughtful design, and practical features delivers a compelling package for city riding.