Zoomin Z1 e-bike Review

There’s something refreshingly understated about the Zoomin Z1, especially for an e-bike. It sometimes seems that in this space looking like a mountain bike (so it can tackle it all) is a prerequisite, but is it? 

At a glance, you wouldn’t immediately guess it’s electrically assisted. The recessed fastenings on its frame lend it a sleek profile and the absence of a quick-release front wheel subtly hints at a design focus on streamlined looks over quick convenience (or an easily stolen wheel). 

Don’t let that detail put you off; Zoomin supplies the tools you need to remove the wheel if you must, though you may discover you don’t need to very often. We can fit the bike into our BYD Atto 3 without removing the wheel, although it took a little creative angling.

The standout feature of the Z1 is undoubtedly its weight: at just 19kg including the battery, stand, lights and carrier, it’s one of the lightest e-bikes you’ll likely come across. Those who’ve wrestled with 25kg-plus models will immediately appreciate how liberating that can be. 

This lighter build is largely thanks to the 6061 aluminium frame and fork, carefully chosen components and a rear hub motor rather than a heavier mid-drive system. That motor is a 300W Mivice MO80 unit, backed by a 360Wh battery with Samsung cells, promising a range of anywhere between 60 and 90 kilometres. Charge time is around five hours using the supplied 2Amp charger, which is manageable enough for an overnight top-up or a workday charge.

What really defines the ride is the torque sensor. Rather than delivering a sudden boost the moment you pedal, it reads how hard you’re pushing and responds with assistance that feels both smooth and natural. This is frequently echoed in rider feedback, where people mention the bike’s “confidence-inspiring” ride and how it doesn’t feel jarring when tackling hills. 

A 10-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with 160mm rotors round out the main performance features, adding to the bike’s overall sense of reliability and control. Tyres are WTB Raddler 700×44, which find that sweet spot between a road-ready width and enough cushioning for comfort on rougher surfaces. While it’s not a mountain bike, it’s certainly more than capable on city streets, cycle trails, and mild gravel paths.

Zoomin hasn’t skimped on extras. Both front and rear lights are integrated and run off the main battery, a rear carrier (with a 15kg capacity) is included for errands or commuting and a built-in mirror means you don’t need to fuss with aftermarket add-ons. There’s even a phone mount with Bluetooth connectivity, mudguards and a kickstand; basically everything you need to get going straight out of the box. 

Packaging is thoughtfully done with renewable or recyclable materials, which reflects Zoomin’s mindful approach to design and distribution. The Z1 also comes with a two-year warranty for extra peace of mind.

Perhaps most enticingly, the Z1 is currently down from $2995 to $1995, making it a more budget-friendly option than many of its competitors. And did we mention there’s even the opportunity to win one by subscribing to NZ Autocar?

If you’re in the market for an electric bike that’s big on features but light on heft and cost, the Zoomin Z1 is hard to beat.