Summary of the Qualisports Dolphin Plus E-bike Review

Unboxing and Assembly

The Qualisports Dolphin Plus is priced at $18.99, with additional options like racks and seat post clamps. The unboxing process was smooth, thanks to a well-made video on their website showing it’s 90% assembled. For those with limited space or tools, this folding e-bike is a breeze to set up. A few tweaks were needed during assembly, like straightening the light and ensuring the handlebar cables weren’t stretched. One standout feature is the 504-watt-hour main battery, which fits neatly into the large seat tube, although this means you can’t replace it with a suspension post.

Battery and Performance

The Dolphin Plus features a second internal downtube battery with a USB charging port, adding another 336 watt-hours to the mix, totaling 840 watt-hours. This dual battery setup ensures excellent weight distribution and a nearly kilowatt-hour of capacity. It’s crucial to note that extreme cold or heat can affect battery performance. With lithium-ion batteries, keeping them in moderate temperatures will extend their lifespan and maintain range.

Drivetrain and Motor

This bike sports a Shimano Tourney 7-speed drivetrain with a 14 to 28 tooth freewheel and a 52 tooth chainring. It’s basic but effective, with a plastic guard to protect your clothes from the chain. The 500-watt hub motor, branded by Qualisports, is planetary geared and rated at 500 watts nominal. While hub motors are simpler and less expensive, they provide sufficient power, especially when combined with the bike’s 20-inch wheels, offering a good mechanical advantage.

Brakes and Safety

The Dolphin Plus is equipped with 160mm hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear, providing excellent stopping power. The brakes are easy to actuate, an essential feature for petite riders like my mom, especially on cold days. The trigger shifters with an optical window make gear changes straightforward, though I would have preferred thumb controls for both high and low gears.

Comfort and Adjustability

One of the highlights of this bike is its adjustability. The handlebar and saddle height can be easily adjusted, and the folding pedals, while not the sturdiest, help save space. The 20×2.3″ tires offer stability and cushioning, though they lack reflective sidewalls or puncture protection.

Additional Features

Qualisports offers a one-year comprehensive warranty, and they use trusted Samsung cells in their battery packs. The bike comes in four colors: black, metallic gray, blue, and red. You can now lock the seat post battery with an optional clamp, enhancing security. The bike folds compactly, with a magnet and metal piece to keep it folded, though you might want to use a bungee cable for extra security.

Ride Experience

My mom found the bike easy to mount and ride, despite its heavier weight. It’s perfect for her 5’3” frame, providing a balanced and comfortable ride. She sees herself using it for local trips but prefers her lighter road bike for longer rides with friends.

Final Thoughts

The Qualisports Dolphin Plus is a versatile, dual-battery folding e-bike with good power distribution and practical features. While it has some compromises, like the lack of a slap guard and basic drivetrain, it offers excellent value for its price. With its adjustable components, ease of assembly, and thoughtful design, it’s a great option for those seeking a reliable and convenient folding e-bike.

E-Bike Information

  1. Range: Up to 40 miles
  2. Top Speed: 20 mph
  3. Motor Size: 500 watts
  4. Battery Size: 504 watt-hours (main), 336 watt-hours (second battery)
  5. Frame: Folding frame
  6. Warranty: 1 year comprehensive
  7. Safety Certified: Yes
  8. Digital Display: Yes

Full Specifications of the Qualisports Dolphin Plus E-bike

  • Miles Per Charge: Up to 40 miles
  • Max Speed: 20 mph
  • Max Rider Weight: 220 lbs
  • Waterproof Rating: IPX4
  • Motor Size: 500 watts
  • Battery Size: 504 watt-hours (main), 336 watt-hours (second battery)
  • Tire Size: 20″ x 2.3″
  • Product Weight: 47 lbs
  • Dimensions: 58″ x 22″ x 46″ (unfolded), 33″ x 20″ x 29″ (folded)
  • Warranty Length: 1 year comprehensive
  • Frame Material: Aluminum alloy
  • Color(s): Black, Metallic Gray, Blue, Red
  • Inner Tubes: Standard 20″ tubes
  • Brakes: 160mm hydraulic disc brakes
  • Charge Time: 4-6 hours
  • Suspension: None
  • Display: Grayscale LCD with USB charging port
  • Headlight: Integrated front light
  • Charger: 3 amp output charger