Coswheel's CT20 E-Bike Stands Out With a 40-MPH Top Speed, It Can Even Fit a Sidecar

Coswheel is based in Dongguan, China, and has been operating since 2015. Since then, they've managed to create quite an extensive range of products: four series with a total of 11 e-bikes, if we're to count all the different versions of its products.

One of their newer creations is the CT20, which the company describes as a family commuter e-bike. At first glance, this all-electric two-wheeler might remind you of a Super73, with a design inspired by the motorbikes and mini bikes from the 70s.

There are two versions available: the standard CT20 and a better-specced CT20S – I'm not entirely sure what the S stands for, but given its specifications, you could consider it the "Sport" variant. I'll detail the differences below. From the geometry standpoint, these two variants are the same – they're designed to accommodate riders with heights between 5"1' and 6'5" (155 and 196 centimeters).

What will surely catch your eye when you first see the CT20 is the cylindrical top tube – it's like Coswheel took the conventional top tube of a bike and increased it a few times in size. However, besides that, the design is very similar to that of the Super73 e-bikes.

We know that this kind of design is tried and tested, both mechanically and aesthetically. And what I mean by that is we know that people like this retro-inspired look.

The CT20's frame, just like many e-bikes out there, is made from aluminum alloy. Regarding dimensions, this e-bike measures 1,800 millimeters (71 inches) in length, 600 millimeters (24 inches) in width, and 1,150 millimeters (45 inches) in height.

The e-bike tips the scales at 41 kg (90 lb.) with the battery, but it can hold a decent 150 kg (331 lb.). In fact, in Coswheel's presentation video, we can see two adults riding on the two-wheeler together with a child in the front. It will not be the most comfortable ride for the passenger as they will be sitting on the rack's bare metal, but it shows you that the e-bike is sturdy enough to support extra weight. Specifically, the rear rack can hold a maximum weight of 331 lb. (150 kg), but Coswheel suggests the safe threshold is 265 lb. (120 kg).

At the core of the CT20 is a 1,000 W (1,500 W peak) brushless geared motor paired with a 1,200 Wh, 25 Ah battery. The high-torque motor provides plenty of power, outputting 80 Nm (59 lb-ft.) of torque and allowing you to reach a top speed of 28 mph (45 kph). In the United States, that classifies it as a Class 3 e-bike.

Coswheel claims an excellent maximum range of 87 miles (140 km), although that will vary depending on your riding style. Even if you ride it at its fullest, you should be able to get at least 40 to 50 miles (64 to 80 km) of range using only the grip twist throttle, which is more than enough for most commuters.

If that's not enough for you, consider the CT20S version. First, you get a more powerful 1,500 W (2,000 W peak) motor that can deliver 120 Nm (88.5 lb-ft.). Second, a bigger battery allows you to go even further, up to 100 miles (161 km) - you can choose between a 48 V, 45 Ah battery or pay extra for a 60 V, 27.5 Ah one.

Charging time is pretty loosely described, with Coswheel saying it will take between 3.5 and 8 hours to juice up the battery fully. From personal experience, it's best you expect a longer charging time.

The top speed for the CT20S is still limited at 28 mph (45 kph), but there's an off-road mode allowing you to ride even faster than that – it can go up to a whopping 40 to 44 mph (64 to 71 kph). I'm glad that Coswheel kept the rider's safety in mind with both versions of the CT20, equipping them with hydraulic disc brakes with 180 mm rotors.

For the CT20S, Coswheel fitted what it calls "deluxe fenders." It kept the CT20's original fender but added an extra layer that holds the taillight LED. It does look a bit better, although I don't know if I'd call it deluxe. By the way, the CT20S doesn't come standard with a rear rack, but you can add it as an extra.

The last notable difference between the two e-bikes is the suspension. The CT20 comes only with a front fork with 80mm travel, while the CT20S will offer comfortable riding by incorporating a rear shock suspension with 180mm travel.

Both models are fitted with a 7-speed Shimano derailleur, which will help you tackle slopes more easily. In fact, Coswheel says the CT20 can go up 30-degree slopes while the CT20S can handle an extra 5 degrees. Moreover, they ride on 20" x 5" off-road tires.

Regarding electronics, this e-bike comes equipped with front and rear lights. The rear one is a run–of–the–mill LED, but the headlight stands out with its round shape and 120 LUX intensity. Moreover, the latter feature makes the e-bike look more like an actual motorbike.

An LCD display allows you to cycle between five pedal assist levels and even charge your phone via a USB 1Ah charging port underneath it.

Regarding accessories, both the CT20 and the CT20S can be equipped with footrests and a bag that slots nicely underneath the top tube. However, there's one interesting accessory that's compatible only with the CT20: a sidecar.

The sidecar attaches to the rear axle. It features a smooth, streamlined bullet shape and tides on a small but still off-road capable wheel. Furthermore, its inside has red stitching and a black leather seat.

There's no way an adult can fit inside, but it's the perfect accessory to bring your kid along for the ride. However, there's one catch – it's offered for quite a hefty price of $1,299. That's enough to buy your kid a nice e-bike so they can cycle beside you.

The CT20 is currently discounted to $1,700 from $1,899, while the S version will set you back $2,100, also discounted from $2,400. Considering the price difference between the two models is just $200, I'd say it's worth it to go for the CT20S if it ticks all your boxes.

If you opt for the CT20S's bigger 60V battery, you'll have to dish out an extra $200. Free shipping is available in the US, but we Europeans will have to pay an additional charge.