The Rabid Whip is a high-performance, full-suspension electric bike designed for both urban environments and moderate off-road use. Equipped with dual batteries and a powerful Bafang motor, this eBike promises extended range, versatility, and a smooth ride. This review covers all critical aspects, including specifications, riding experience, advanced controls, and practical tests.

Motor and Battery System

The Rabid Whip comes equipped with a Bafang 72V 3000W rear hub motor that can peak at 5000W. This motor delivers a substantial torque ranging between 143 to 200 Newton meters, providing the bike with impressive acceleration and hill-climbing capability.

The bike features a dual battery system:

• Primary battery: 72V, 20Ah, 1440Wh hidden within the frame.
• Secondary battery: 72V, 15Ah, 1080Wh mounted externally.

Combined, the two batteries offer a total capacity of 2520Wh, translating to up to 85 miles of range at pedal assist level 1. Both batteries can be charged on or off the bike, with charging times around 10 to 10.5 hours using a single charger.

Frame and Suspension

The Whip sports a robust full-suspension frame with a beefy four-link rear suspension utilizing a DNM AO 8RC air shock that offers 50 mm of travel. The front suspension is handled by XO dual crown air forks with 120 mm travel. Both suspensions are adjustable via air pressure and compression settings to accommodate rider weight and terrain preference. A digital shock pump is provided for easy air pressure adjustments.

Drivetrain and Braking

The drivetrain includes a seven-speed setup with an 11×34 freewheel and a 56-tooth chainring, controlled via a seven-speed thumb shifter. Braking power comes from Tektro four-piston hydraulic disc brakes with thick 203 mm rotors, ensuring strong and reliable stopping power.

Wheels and Tires

The Whip uses 20-inch, 4-inch wide Black Cat tires featuring a multi-terrain tread pattern and puncture resistance. The wheels are reinforced with thick double-layered alloy rims and 10-gauge spokes, contributing to durability and stability on various surfaces.

Dimensions and Payload

• Length: 70.8 inches
• Weight: 131 lbs
• Maximum payload: 386 lbs
• Suitable rider heights: 5’5” to 6’5”
• Available colors: Matte pearlescent white, matte black, java purple haze, matte midnight blue, and matte sice.

Display and Controls

The Whip is equipped with a full-color 3.12-inch display that provides vital ride information including speed, battery percentage, pedal assist level, trip data, range, calories burned, and cadence or RPM. The display is highly customizable with three different themes and adjustable brightness settings.

Controls on the handlebars include:

• Left side: static grip, front brake lever, headlight, turn signals, horn, and main control pad.
• Right side: half-twist throttle, rear brake lever, and gear shifter (thumb up/down).

Advanced settings allow users to:

• Toggle between torque and cadence pedal assist modes.
• Adjust speed limits per pedal assist level and throttle.
• Reset trip data and set service reminders.
• Create password protection for the bike controls.

Lighting and Safety

The integrated lighting system includes an oversized front headlight with side turn signal indicators. The rear features a brake light, tail light, and turn signals mounted on the rear rack. While the front lighting is bright and effective, the rear turn signals are less visible in daylight and could benefit from enhancement.

A horn is included, offering a loud warning sound, though it may be too startling for pedestrian paths, where a bell is recommended.

Additional Accessories

The Whip package includes a variety of accessories:

• Rabbid tank bag
• Digital shock pump
• Axle wrench
• Portable inflatable air pump
• Two sets of LED bike lights
• Rabbid branded hat and a shirt (note sizing runs small).

On-Road and Urban Riding

The Whip’s 3000W motor combined with the dual battery system provides ample power for urban commutes and recreational riding. The torque sensor is finely tuned for smooth, responsive pedal assist that adjusts power output based on pedal pressure. This results in controlled acceleration and a natural riding feel.

The bike is rated as Class 2 out of the box, with a top speed of 20 mph via throttle. It can be unlocked to Class 3 or higher, reaching speeds up to 50 mph under optimal conditions. The throttle response is smooth, allowing for slow-speed control as low as 3 mph, which is rare for high-powered eBikes.

Off-Road and Terrain Handling

Full suspension with adjustable air shocks ensures comfort over uneven surfaces and moderate off-road trails. The 20-inch fat tires provide good traction on sand and loose terrain, though the wide tires create some instability on very soft sand, requiring rider skill to manage.

Testing on a 10% incline (“Hill of Doom”) and rough sand demonstrated the Whip’s impressive climbing power and motor torque. It effectively conquers steep grades in both pedal assist and throttle-only modes, even at low assist levels.

Braking and Safety

The Tektro hydraulic brakes with large rotors deliver excellent stopping power. Brake tests at 20 mph and 28 mph showed stopping distances of 19 and 36 feet respectively, highlighting reliable safety performance even at higher speeds.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The Whip’s wide saddle offers comfort for shorter rides, though longer rides may require seat replacement for better ergonomics. Adjustable seating height and handlebar positioning accommodate riders within the recommended height range.

A quick-release seat clamp and two seat posts (shorter and longer) are included for customization. The bike’s geometry supports an upright riding posture, suitable for commuting and casual rides.

Battery Management and Range

The dual battery setup is one of the Whip’s standout features, enabling extended range and flexible charging options. Riders should expect about 10 hours to fully charge both batteries with one charger, though newer models may include dual chargers for faster charging.

Riders can charge batteries on or off the bike, with battery indicators on each pack for convenience. The system dynamically adjusts the displayed range based on recent riding habits and power consumption.

Safety Enhancements

The horn is loud but can startle pedestrians; it is advisable to install a traditional bell for trail use. Rear turn signals need to be brighter for improved visibility, especially in daylight.

Suitability for Riders

The Whip performs well for riders between 5’5” and 6’5” tall and up to 386 lbs payload. Its nimble handling is enhanced by placing the batteries low and centered on the frame, improving balance and stability.

Overall Value and Warranty

Priced at approximately $2,899 with a three-year warranty, the Whip offers excellent value for riders seeking a powerful, durable, and versatile eBike with advanced features.

Conclusion

The Rabid Whip eBike is a powerful and versatile electric bike that excels in both urban commuting and light off-road applications. Its dual battery system provides an extended range that few competitors match, while the Buffang motor delivers robust power for hill climbing and rapid acceleration. Adjustable suspension and a comprehensive control system offer a customizable riding experience tailored to individual preferences.

Despite minor drawbacks such as the rear turn signal visibility and seat comfort for long rides, the Whip represents a compelling choice for riders seeking a high-performance electric bike with advanced features and strong build quality. The included accessories and three-year warranty further enhance its appeal.

For those interested in an eBike that combines power, range, and versatility in a nimble 20-inch frame, the Rabid Whip is a top contender in today’s market.