AddMotoR MOTAN M-66 R7 Review – 2024

In-Depth Review

Frame

The AddMotoR MOTAN M-66 R7 may be a bit of a unique design, but it’s constructed very similarly to other electric bikes. The M-66 R7 has a 6061 aluminum base, which is the same material used in many other eBikes and in boat, automobile, and aircraft construction.
6061 aluminum alloys are so popular because the metal offers an outstanding balance of being lightweight and affordable, yet highly durable. The total assembly weight of the Motan M-66 R7 isn’t the lightest around at 74 lbs, but the frame weighs so much so it can support two adult riders at the same time.

We’re okay with the weight, but we’re a bit let down that the frame is only available in one size. It is a step-thru design, so shorter cyclists aren’t going to have trouble riding or mounting the MOTAN M-66 R7 electric bike.

However, bicyclists who are 6’2’’ and taller have had problems riding the eBike comfortably, mainly due to the limited handlebar and seat customization. AddMotoR does have other frames that are better suited for taller cyclists. But shorter to average height adults should feel fine on the MOTAN M-66 R7.

Motor & Battery

The AddMotoR MOTAN M-66 R7 is a class 2 eBike, with pedal or throttle activated motor assistance up to 20 MPH.

Because the eBike supports up to two adult riders, a stronger motor to compensate for the added weight is needed. The Bafang 750 Rear-Mounted Gear Hub Motor with a 750 W / 80 Nm torque output passes this test with flying colors. Whether you need motor assistance to climb a challenging hill or keep up with traffic, you’ll be able to do so on the MOTAN M-66 R7. The motor can be activated by pedaling or by making use of the throttle system. Both work great and provide steady motor power.

We’re primarily satisfied with the battery and charger included with the eBike. The Panasonic 555 Wh lithium battery helps you travel over 55 miles on a single charge–though if you’re riding with a second person, that range shrinks to about 45 miles.

A 2.5 amp charger is included, and while it isn’t significantly more powerful than a standard eBike charger, it does cut the full recharge time down to three or four hours. You can plug the charger directly into the bike while the battery is mounted, or you can dismount the battery and charge it indoors while at work or dining at a restaurant.
We also want to highlight that since the battery is mounted beneath the banana seat, it’s tough to damage even if you suffer a hard crash.

Display/Assist Modes

While it might not be the most advanced display we’ve had the chance to review, the included display is one of the largest. The M-66 R7 has an AddMotoR 5’’ LCD control panel with an independent button pad, combining ease of use with a large screen that prioritizes the most essential riding metrics you need to understand your riding performance.

The backlit screen can be used while riding day or night. And with an independent button pad, it’s easy to change settings while pedaling without having to look down. The included readouts and riding metrics for the MOTAN M-66 R7 are as follows:

AddMotoR MOTAN M-66 LCD Display Readouts, Metrics, and Settings:

• Current Speed
• Average Speed
• Max Speed
• Pedal Assist Level (Five Levels + Walk Mode)
• Battery Level (Five Bars)
• Wattage Output
• Odometer
• Light Settings

The throttle will always provide max power to the motor when used, but the power level provided when pedaling can be changed through the control panel. You can set the motor for lower pedal assist levels if you want to minimize battery drain for greater riding range or drain the battery quicker with higher pedal assist levels for greater motor power and acceleration.

Make sure you familiarize yourself with each of the included pedal assist levels since using a combination of all of them while riding will help with the best overall eBiking experience.

Handling

• On Streets- The AddMotoR MOTAN M-66 R7 is designed for riding on city streets, and for the most part, it handles well–as long as the motor is on. The powerful motor helps you reach 20 MPH quickly, and due to the moped-style frame and suspension support, you hardly feel bumps or potholes. As long as you have the motor on, this is a very fun eBike to ride (even by yourself) though without the engine it can be difficult to grapple wiith its heavy and awkward frame.
• Turn Radius- The MOTAN M-66 R7 struggles with the turn radius. While the eBike does have shorter 20’’ wheels, the 4’’ wide tires greatly reduce the bike’s ability to make tight turns. Furthermore, the moped style M-66 R7 is longer than an average eBike frame, needing even more space to pivot and turn in a circle. Take your time around corners, and you’ll have fun, but don’t expect to make any tight turns while riding the MOTAN M-66 R7 electric bike.
• Low-Speed Handling- At 74 pounds, the AddMotoR Motan M-66 R7 is tough to handle without the motor at low speeds. With the motor on, make your life easier by using the control panel to set your bike to a low pedal assist level, providing a small boost as you pedal so you can focus on handling. If you get off the eBike, you can turn on walk mode, which will cause the motor to help push the M-66 R7 along–even without having to pedal. Just don’t make the mistake of using the throttle, as the throttle will always provide max power no matter what pedal assist level you set your eBike.

Gears/DriveTrain

The MOTAN M-66 R7 has a Shimano 14-28 T cassette with a 42 T chainring making up its drivetrain. It is a 7-Speed eBike, and while some advanced cyclists might prefer more gear options, you won’t need to shift often when riding through the city with this eBike.

While the gear options might be a bit of a mixed bag, the comprehensive drivetrain protection is not. There are aluminum alloy fenders, an aluminum derailleur guard, and a double-sided alloy chain guard and guide, all included to help protect the drivetrain.

The fenders are especially helpful in keeping your drivetrain from getting gunked up by mud when you ride on rainy days, while the derailleur and chain guards help with guiding the chain when you shift. Suffering a chain drop with the MOTAN M-66 R7 is highly infrequent, saving you and your partner from having to stop and put yourselves at risk while fixing the bike on a busy city street.

Brakes

Because of the added frame weight and the second adult rider that may come with you on the M-66 R7, you need extra braking power compared to traditional eBike setups. The MOTAN M-66 R7 mostly meets the mark as it relies on mighty Tektro Aries mechanical disc brakes with 180 mm rotors for the front and back wheels.

180 mm sized rotors are often used in mountain bikes, so as long as you’re riding in the city, you won’t have any trouble coming to a quick and steady stop, even when riding downhill. Mechanical disc brakes aren’t as advanced as hydraulic brakes, but they help keep the bike price down and are easier to service when they need adjustments. Whether you’re riding by yourself or with a friend, you can trust the Tektro Aries mechanical disc brakes to work when you need them.

Suspension

One component we’re surprised to see included is the Addshox spring suspension fork. Many city commuters and moped-style bikes don’t have any suspension at all. So seeing a mid-level fork with 80 mm of travel along with preload adjustment is a very welcome inclusion.

You can ride over bumps, potholes, cobblestone paths, gravel, and other rough terrain more easily with the MOTAN M-66 R7, especially given the natural shock absorption of the heavy bike frame. We wouldn’t recommend taking it trail riding due to the frame design. Still, for everywhere else in the city, you’ll have a very comfortable riding experience with AddMotoR’s moped eBike hybrid.

Pedals

Let’s discuss the MOTAN M-66 R7 aluminum platform pedals. Pedals aren’t the most important feature on an eBike, but you’re going to have a more enjoyable riding experience overall with aluminum pedals than plastic pedals. Besides being more durable and supporting more weight, aluminum pedals also have better foot traction to grip better while riding, especially with cycling shoes.

We want to highlight side reflector panels on the pedals, which makes you easier to spot while riding, significantly reducing the risk of suffering a collision. Many entry-level bikes encourage you to upgrade the stock model pedals, but you won’t have to with the AddMotoR MOTAN M-66 R7 eBike.

Grips and Saddle

We’ve repeatedly described the MOTAN M-66 R7 as a moped/eBike hybrid, but it’s only now that it becomes apparent. The handlebars have a high-rise, swept-back design with an adjustable angle, pairing well with the banana style seat that comprises the eBike saddle.

Measuring 23’’ by 8.5’’, the faux leather banana seat is very cushy to sit on, and given its size, it’s a seat that’ll genuinely fit almost any adult cyclist– since up to two adults can ride on it at the same time.

Whether you’re by yourself or with a friend, you’ll appreciate the matching stitched faux leather ergonomic grips, which look as good as they are comfortable to hold. With an ergonomic design, you could ride for several hours without tiring out or irritating your hands. But the same probably can’t be said for your legs due to the heavy bike frame. Be sure not to push yourself too hard when riding the MOTAN M-66 R7 eBike!

Wheels and Tires

The final major performance component on the MOTAN M-66 R7 is the wheel setup. You can expect Kenda Krusade Sport tires that measure 20’’ by 4’’, mounted on double-walled six cast alloy rims. The tires themselves have a recommended inflation range of 5 PSI to 30 PSI, with 5 PSI much recommended for riding along the beach, while 30 PSI is better for city riding.

The wheels are highly reflective, reducing the risk of suffering a collision from those coming from your side, while the pedal reflectors are good for those coming towards or from behind you.

The only area where the tires are a bit lacking is they have rather basic puncture protection. Puncture protection is important for eBikes. While you’ll mostly be riding in the city, tires tend to blow out easier when riding at high speeds, something you’ll often do due to the motor on this bike. Keep an eye on how your tires are looking , and you’ll have a blast every time you go out riding with the ultra-stable Kenda Kursade Sport tires.

Accessories/Upgrades

The value of an eBike isn’t just determined by the price tag and performance alone, but by the number of accessories and premium upgrades included with the eBike as well.

In this regard, the MOTAN M-66 R7 is more than worth its price, because the necessary accessories we look for are all included. A bell system, kickstand, headlight, tail light, aluminum pedals, and several other vital accessories are all included with the M-66 R7!

The only one accessory that’s even partially a letdown is the tail light since it runs on AAA batteries rather than integrated into the bike’s electrical system. However, as long as you remember to check the tail light about once or twice a month you’ll have everything you need on the stock model.

Luckily, AddMotoR has a terrific lineup of additional accessories and upgrades worth considering to make your next trip even better, with a few of our recommendations including the following:

• AddMotoR Mirrors
• AddMotoR Rear Rack
• AddMotoR Backrest
• AddMotoR Rim Reflective Tape Stripes
• AddMotoR Water Bottle Holder
• AddMotoR Phone Bag Holder
• AddMotoR Rear Basket and Liner

Recommendation

Whether you ride an eBike by yourself to work or are exploring your town with a partner, you can do both with the AddMotoR MOTAN M-66 R7 electric bike. The 6061 aluminum frame is on the heavy side, but it has excellent weight support with a hybrid eBike/moped design that can easily carry two adult cyclists at the same time.
The Bafang 750 W / 80 Nm motor is strong enough to help you and your friend climb the most challenging hills in the city, while the Panasonic 555 Wh battery provides a good range that’ll let you travel over 55 miles before needing a charge.

The Shimano 7-Speed drivetrain is steady and reliable, with aluminum fenders, a double-sided chain guard, and a derailleur guard for smoother shifting and great drivetrain protection.

The Tektro Aries brakes will help you and your friend come to a safe and comfortable stop, with 180 mm sized rotors great for braking even when riding downhill.

The banana seat, ergonomic grips, and adjustable handlebar further add to the overall comfort of this eBike. The premium accessories like the headlight, tail light, and make this a safe bike too.

This is one of the most affordable eBike/moped bikes on the market, so if you and your partner want a bike you can share, we highly recommend considering the AddMotoR MOTAN M-66 R7 electric bike!

Thank you for reading our spec review of the AddMotoR MOTAN M66 R7 electric bike! Please leave a comment below with any questions you still have or if you would like to see a full performance review or video review from our team.