The Luckeep M5 Max stands out as one of the most unique moped-style electric bikes currently available, merging classic design with modern power and performance. This review will cover everything from its motor specifications, battery details, and suspension system to real-world riding experiences including off-road performance and hill climbing capabilities. Whether you’re an urban commuter or an off-road enthusiast, the M5 Max provides a compelling choice.

Design and Build Quality

The Luckeep M5 Max boasts a distinct and eye-catching moped-inspired design, available in four colors: white, gray, yellow, and red. It features a sturdy, long frame measuring 75.59 inches in length with BMX-style handlebars and a moped-style seat providing an upright riding posture. With a weight of 102 lbs (single battery version), it supports a maximum payload of 330 lbs, making it suitable for most adult riders ranging from 5’2″ to 6’0″.

Motor and Performance Specifications

At the heart of the M5 Max is a powerful 52V, 1500W rear hub motor capable of peak bursts up to 2000W. This motor provides 120 newton meters of torque, ensuring strong and reliable acceleration capable of handling tough terrains and steep inclines. The e-bike reaches speeds up to 37-38 mph (though actual GPS-verified top speed is closer to 33 mph) and is equipped with a 7-speed Shimano transmission with a thumb shifter for smooth gear changes.

Battery and Range

The M5 Max comes standard with a 52V 20Ah battery, which delivers approximately 80 miles of range on a single charge under optimal conditions. For extended distances, a dual battery option is available to double this capacity. Charging takes around 6.5 to 7 hours with the included 3A charger. The battery is removable with a keyed lock for security, and conveniently located charging ports allow for both on-bike and off-bike charging.

Display and Controls

The bike’s full-color LCD display offers key ride data such as battery level (percentage and bars), speed, mileage, pedal assist level, and odometer. The display supports switching between metric and imperial units and reveals trip information including max and average speeds.

Starting the bike utilizes NFC cards for convenience and security. On the handlebar, riders find controls for pedal assist adjustment (five levels), throttle control, horn, turn signals, and headlights. However, the turn signals don’t have visual or audible display indicators, so riders must rely on tactile feedback.

Safety and Lighting

Equipped with KTek two-piston hydraulic brakes and 180mm rotors, stopping power is robust but can require longer distances at top speeds, especially on less grippy tires. For visibility, the M5 Max has dual LED headlights with bright daytime running lights and a rear tail light that responds when braking, enhancing safety during night rides.

Suspension System

The M5 Max is fitted with inverted dual crown front forks offering 150mm of travel and twin 1200 lb rear shock absorbers. While the front suspension isn’t adjustable, it provides solid absorption of bumps and rough terrain, making the ride comfortable on gravel, grass, and light off-road tracks.

Riding Comfort and Ergonomics

The seating position on the M5 Max is upright with BMX-style handlebars placed slightly higher relative to the saddle, designed for comfortable cruising and easy handling. However, some riders, especially above 5’9″, may find the saddle seat a bit low with zero adjustability. The bike’s full suspension system contributes significantly to rider comfort.

Throttle and Pedal Assist Behavior

The M5 Max offers a full twist throttle and five levels of pedal assist. The cadence sensor activation can have a noticeable delay (often five to ten pedal rotations before assistance kicks in), which suggests the bike is optimized more for throttle usage rather than continuous pedaling. At pedal assist level 5, speeds of about 32-33 mph are achievable on flat terrain.

Off-Road Capability

The wide 20×4-inch puncture-resistant Chao Yang tires with an all-terrain tread pattern allow the bike to handle diverse surfaces, including dirt trails and gravel paths with relative ease. The suspension performs well absorbing vibrations from uneven ground and minor obstacles such as steps and small bumps.

Hill Climbing Test

On steep inclines known as the “Hill of Doom” (31% grade), the M5 Max with its high torque motor and ample pedal assist managed to climb without much trouble when pedaling combined with throttle. Throttle-only climbing was more challenging, underscoring the benefit of using pedal assist for demanding uphill rides.

Sand and Beach Performance

While the bike delivered strong torque for loose and moderately thick sand conditions, it struggled in very thick, soft sand patches. This indicates that while it can reach beach areas, extreme sand conditions may limit its effectiveness, a typical scenario for many electric bikes.

Realistic Mileage

In real-world conditions, the bike exhibited good range performance, completing rides up to approximately 28 miles on the battery indicator before power dwindled, though actual mileage tracked via GPS apps was slightly lower (~27.5 miles). Range will of course vary based on rider weight, terrain, and assist levels.

Battery Management

The display’s battery meter had some inaccuracies, sometimes showing inflated percentage values which affected rider expectations. Voltage readings provided more reliable insight, revealing that battery power diminishes significantly over time, impacting top speed and motor power delivery.

Dual Battery Upgrade

For longer rides and to avoid range anxiety, the dual battery option is highly recommended. This feature doubles the available range and ensures consistent power even on prolonged or hilly rides. Charging time remains the same, but endurance and versatility improve dramatically.

Pros and Cons of the Lucky M5 Max

Pros

• Distinctive and stylish moped-like design that turns heads
• Strong 1500W motor with peak 2000W power and 120 Nm torque
• Claimed 80-mile range with single battery, extendable with dual batteries
• Comfortable full suspension system with front and rear shocks
• Hydraulic disc brakes for solid stopping power
• Comprehensive color display and convenient NFC start system
• Wide, puncture-resistant tires suited for multiple terrains
• USB-A charging port integrated into the display panel
• Turn signals and horn add safety features uncommon on many e-bikes

Cons

• Heavy weight at 102 lbs, which may affect handling
• No seat adjustment and unadjustable front suspension
• Loud motor noise may not suit all riders
• Turn signal indicators missing from the display and no audible feedback
• Battery meter lacks accuracy; voltage is a better indicator but less user-friendly
• Struggled on very loose, deep sand
• Braking distance can be long at high speeds, especially on stock tires
• Pedal assist activation delay reduces pedaling efficiency

Final Thoughts: Is the Lucky M5 Max Worth It?

The Luckeek M5 Max is a bold and powerful electric bike that offers a unique riding experience blending moped aesthetics with serious e-bike performance. It’s ideal for riders who want high torque, impressive top speeds, and strong off-road versatility wrapped in a retro-modern package. Its comfortable suspension and large tires make it capable on diverse terrains, from urban streets to gravel paths.

While the single battery version offers substantial range, serious riders should consider the dual battery option for maximum distance and power. Its few quirks, such as the loud motor and less-than-perfect battery indicator, are outweighed by its strengths in motor power, design, and suspension comfort.

If you’re seeking an e-bike that stands out visually and performs well across different environments — and you don’t mind a bit of weight and noise — the Luckeep M5 Max is an definite option. Available now through Gleeride with warranty coverage, it’s a worthy contender to consider in the moped-style e-bike segment.