The Velotric GoMad 20×4 utility eBike is designed as a versatile and powerful electric bike suitable for various riding conditions. It arrives as a class 2 eBike, capable of speeds up to 20 mph using the thumb throttle or pedal assist, with options to unlock class 3 speeds and customized settings. Weighing 77 pounds and supporting a maximum payload of 500 lbs, the GoMad caters to riders between 5′0″ and 6′3″ in height and comes in three distinct colors: dark amber, obsidian, and sage.

Key Specifications and Build Quality

The bike is equipped with a $48$-volt, $750$-watt rear hub motor delivering $1,300$ watts peak power and $85$ newton-meters of torque. This powerful motor ensures strong acceleration and hill climbing ability. The hidden battery, integrated into the down tube, is a $48$-volt, $16.7$ amp-hour pack with a total energy capacity of $801.6$ watt-hours. Charging from $0$ to $100\%$ requires approximately $5.5$ hours using the $3$-amp charger. The battery is removable for convenient off-bike charging and comes with two keys for easy locking and removal.

Drivetrain and Brakes

The GoMad features an $8$-speed drivetrain with an $11\times 34$ freewheel, Shimano Altus derailleur, an $8$-speed trigger shifter, and a $52$-tooth narrow-wide chainring. Stopping power is provided by Tektro two-piston hydraulic disc brakes with $203$ mm front and $180$ mm rear rotors, ensuring reliable and responsive braking performance.

Suspension and Tires

The front suspension is handled by RST Guide hydraulic forks with $36$ mm stanchions and $100$ mm of travel. These forks are preload adjustable and lockable to adapt to different terrains and rider preferences. The front wheel uses a through-axle for added stability, fitted with $20\times 4$ inch Kenda tires featuring a multi-terrain tread and tan wall design. These tires are puncture resistant and optimized for both urban and off-road conditions.

Frame and Additional Features

The frame supports a unique Comfort Max system focusing on ergonomic grips and a wide, soft saddle designed to enhance rider comfort. The step-over height is low at $17$ inches, promoting easy mounting and dismounting. The bike includes plastic fenders, pedals, a single-sided chainring guard, a quick-release seat post, a telescopic stem, BMX-style handlebars, and a rear rack that supports up to $176$ lbs with the MC HD mounting system.

Display and Controls

The GoMad is equipped with a full-color TFT display providing a comprehensive dashboard that includes battery percentage, speed, pedal assist levels, class mode, trip distance, trip time, estimated range, motor and controller temperature, calories burned, power output, cadence (RPM), and heart rate when connected to a compatible monitor. Controls on the handlebar include power, plus/minus for pedal assist adjustment, turn signals, mode switching, and a class selector button.

Pedal Assist and Throttle Modes

There are five pedal assist levels—eco, tour, trail, sport, and boost—each offering different levels of motor assistance. The throttle provides up to $20$ mph in class 2 mode and is disabled in class 3 mode, where pedal assist can reach up to $28$ mph. Riders can switch between torque and cadence sensor modes to tailor the assistance based on pedaling force or cadence.

Advanced Settings and Customization

Advanced features accessible via the control pad or Veloltric app include:

• Speed limit adjustments for each class (1, 2, and 3)
• Sensor type switching between torque and cadence modes
• Cruise control activation for steady speeds without pedaling
• Ride tuning with adjustable assist responsiveness (slow, smooth, turbo)
• Stealth mode to disable sounds and screen brightness adjustments
• NFC card security for bike activation
• Auto light settings and turn signal beep control
• Battery protection features and firmware updates

The Veloltric app mirrors most of these functionalities, enabling remote control and firmware management.

Speed and Acceleration

The bike accelerates quickly to the class 2 limit of $20$ mph using the throttle and pedal assist in torque mode. Switching to class 3 disables the throttle but allows pedal assist speeds up to $28$ mph. The custom mode enables both throttle and pedal assist at $28$ mph, ideal for riders in areas without restrictive eBike laws.

Riding Modes and Sensor Behavior

Torque sensor mode requires applying force to the pedals for assistance, while cadence mode provides assistance proportional to pedaling speed regardless of force. The torque sensor mode offers more intuitive control and is preferred for hill climbing and carrying heavy loads. Cadence mode is useful for easing pedaling fatigue over longer distances.

Hill Climbing and Terrain Handling

Testing on steep, muddy inclines demonstrated the bike’s strong power delivery, especially in boost mode, which provides maximum torque assistance. The suspension fork and stock seat absorbed bumps effectively, though the reviewer suggested upgrading to a suspension seat post for extended comfort.

Off-Road and Sand Performance

The fat $20\times 4$ tires combined with the hydraulic suspension enabled smooth handling on rough terrain and sand, with the motor providing ample power to maintain traction and momentum.

Range and Battery Life

The bike’s estimated range varies by assist level: up to $75$ miles in eco mode and approximately $50$ miles using throttle only. Real-world tests showed consistent power delivery even at $0\%$ battery display, indicating a battery management system that protects the battery from full depletion. The availability of an optional second battery and rear bag for extra storage effectively doubles the range and utility.

Braking and Safety Features

Hydraulic disc brakes provided strong stopping power, halting the bike from $21$ mph within $21$ feet and from $28.5$ mph within $38$ feet. Integrated front and rear lights, brake lights, and turn signals enhance visibility and safety, all controllable via handlebar switches.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The handlebars, grips, and saddle prioritize rider comfort, with adjustability in stem height and seat position accommodating a wide range of rider heights. However, the plastic pedals were found lacking in grip and are recommended for replacement with aluminum versions featuring better traction.

Rear Passenger Kits

Veloltric offers passenger kits for carrying children or adults, including seats, foot pegs, and safety guards. This makes the GoMad suitable for family rides or passenger transport.

Front and Rear Racks

The front rack with a quick-release system and the rear MC HD rack support cargo carrying, enhancing the bike’s utility for errands or commuting.

App Integration and Tracking

The Veloltric app enables remote bike control, ride tracking, firmware updates, and customization of assist levels. Integration with Apple Find My and Android Find Hub provides anti-theft tracking.

Final Assessment

Strengths

• Robust motor with high torque and peak power
• Versatile pedal assist and throttle modes with customizable settings
• Long-range battery with removable design and optional second battery
• Comfortable ergonomic design with adjustable components
• Comprehensive safety features including integrated lights and turn signals
• High-quality hydraulic brakes and suspension fork improve ride quality
• Expandable with passenger kits and cargo racks

Considerations

• Plastic pedals may require replacement for better grip
• Stock seat may need upgrading for long-distance comfort
• Weight at $77$ lbs could be a factor for some users
• Single frame size limits rider fit range

Conclusion

The Veloltric GoMad 20×4 utility eBike stands out as a highly capable, customizable electric bike suitable for daily commuting, running errands, and light off-road adventures. Its robust motor, extensive feature set, and thoughtful ergonomic design make it a strong contender in the utility eBike market. With options to upgrade accessories and fine-tune ride experience, the GoMad caters to a broad spectrum of riders seeking comfort, power, and versatility.