The Engwe M20 Review: Cafe Racer Style for the London Streets

If you are bored of electric bikes that look... well, like bicycles, the Engwe M20 is here to shake things up.

With a design clearly inspired by the "Super73" aesthetic and classic cafe racer motorbikes, the M20 turns heads wherever it goes. But is it just a pretty face, or does it have the performance to handle the daily grind in the UK?

In this review, we explore why the Engwe M20 might just be the coolest cruiser to hit the British high street this year.

1. The Look: A Moto-Inspired Beast

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the design. The M20 does not look like a traditional commuter bike.

It features a low-slung, aluminium alloy frame, a long motorcycle-style seat, and distinct dual headlights that give it a unique, aggressive personality.

Available in colours like Black, Green, and White, this bike is a fashion statement. It fits perfectly into the urban landscape of places like Shoreditch or Camden. If you want a bike that sparks conversations at traffic lights, this is the one.

2. The Dual Battery Advantage

The standout feature of the Engwe M20 is the option to buy it with dual batteries.

While most e-bikes struggle to hit 40 miles, the dual-battery version of the M20 changes the game entirely.

• The Setup: It uses two 48V 13Ah batteries mounted on the frame.
• The Range: Engwe claims a massive range (up to 75 miles / 120km) on pedal assist with both batteries.
• The Benefit: For the London rider, this means you might only need to charge it once a week, even with a daily commute from Zone 3 to Central London.

3. Performance and Ride Quality

The M20 is smaller than its big brother, the E26, riding on 20 x 4.0-inch fat tyres. Lower to the ground, it offers a very stable, planted centre of gravity.

• Suspension: It comes equipped with a front suspension fork and a rear air shock. This dual suspension setup is crucial because, unlike a normal bike, you sit in a fixed position on the long seat. The suspension eats up the bumps of potholes and speed bumps effectively.
• The Motor: The hub motor delivers punchy acceleration. In the UK configuration, speed is capped at 15.5 mph, but the torque feels substantial, making it easy to zip away when the light turns green.

4. Practicality vs. Style

Is it practical? That depends on what you need.

• The Good: The smaller 20-inch wheels make it surprisingly agile. It is easier to store in a hallway than a full-sized mountain bike. The lighting system (especially the high-beam/low-beam headlights) is fantastic for unlit winter evenings.
• The Trade-off: The seat is not adjustable. If you are very tall (over 6'2"), you might find pedalling over long distances slightly awkward compared to a traditional bike. This bike is designed more for "cruising" with assistance than for rigorous athletic cycling.

5. Who is the Engwe M20 For?

This is not a bike for the lycra-clad cyclist trying to beat their Strava time.

The Engwe M20 is for the urban commuter who values style, comfort, and range. It is for the creative professional who wants to arrive at the office without breaking a sweat, and for the weekend adventurer who wants a rugged machine for park trails.

Engwe M20 Specs at a Glance

The Verdict

The Engwe M20 is easily one of the most exciting e-bikes on the market for under £1,500. It offers a rare combination of motorbike aesthetics, massive range (with the dual battery option), and genuine comfort.

Pros:

• Incredible battery range (Dual version).
• Unique, head-turning design.
• Full suspension smooths out rough UK roads.
• Powerful dual headlights for safety.

Cons:

• Fixed seat height may not suit very tall riders.
• Mechanical brakes work well, but hydraulics would be better for a bike of this weight.

If you are looking for an electric bike that feels more like a vehicle and less like a bicycle, the Engwe M20 is the ultimate choice for the modern Londoner.

Disclaimer: UK Road Laws

Please remember: To be legal on public roads in the UK without registration, an EAPC (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle) must be limited to 250W and 15.5mph, and the motor should only engage whilst pedalling. Always check that your specific model is configured to comply with local regulations.