Summary of the Schwinn Monroe 250 E-Bike

Hey guys, welcome to Philadelphia! The city’s bustling with activity, and we’re right outside the Expo Center where the eBike Expo is currently in full swing. Today, I’m taking a closer look at the Schwinn Monroe 250, the most affordable electric bike in Schwinn’s lineup, priced at $1,199. While it’s a budget-friendly option, there are a few trade-offs to consider.

First off, the Monroe 250 features linear pull brakes with traditional rubber pads and mechanical four-finger levers. These brakes come with motor inhibitors, which are a great safety feature, especially considering the bike uses a basic 12-magnet cadence sensor. This sensor detects when you start or stop pedaling but doesn’t provide detailed feedback on power levels or speed.

The bike’s design is quite eye-catching with color-matched deep-dish rims and red accents on the frame and saddle. Weighing in at about 42.5 pounds, the Monroe 250 reminds me of the Easy Motion EasyGo Race due to its single-speed setup. It has a 46-tooth chainring paired with an 18-tooth sprocket at the rear. The horizontal dropout design ensures the chain stays tight, reducing the risk of it falling off.

Designed for city riding, the Monroe 250 comes with narrower tires for better efficiency on paved roads. The max assisted speed is 20 mph, which is quite decent for urban commuting. The frame is all aluminum with a steel fork, providing some vibration dampening for a smoother ride. The bike is available in three sizes: small/medium, medium, and large, so you can find the right fit.

Under the hood, the Monroe 250 is powered by a 250-watt internally geared Bafang hub motor. While this motor isn’t as powerful as the 350-watt options or mid-drive motors found on more expensive bikes, it does the job for flat city terrains. The motor is paired with a 36V 11.6Ah battery, offering a respectable range for daily commuting.

One of the highlights of the Monroe 250 is its simplicity. The bike features mechanical brakes, a straightforward cockpit with ribbed rubber grips, and a clean handlebar setup. The handlebars and forks are made of steel, adding to the bike’s durability and vibration dampening. The bike also comes with bottle cage bosses and rear rack mounts, though it lacks a kickstand.

The battery is easy to remove and charge, featuring a built-in LED power level indicator. However, the charger is a bit on the slower side, with an average 2-amp output. The bike’s digital display is quite basic, showing only the assist level and battery status without any speedometer or odometer functions.

Riding the Monroe 250 is a pleasant experience, with a smooth and quiet motor operation. However, the basic cadence sensor means there’s a slight delay in motor response, which might take some getting used to. The bike’s single-speed setup and narrow tires make it efficient but might not be the most comfortable for long rides or rough terrains.

In conclusion, the Schwinn Monroe 250 is a great entry-level electric bike for urban commuting. It offers a good balance of affordability, simplicity, and functionality, making it an excellent choice for those looking to dip their toes into the world of e-bikes without breaking the bank.

Information of Schwinn Monroe 250

  1. Range: Approximately 20-30 miles per charge
  2. Top Speed: 20 mph
  3. Motor Size: 250 watts
  4. Battery Size: 36V 11.6Ah
  5. Frame: Aluminum frame with a steel fork
  6. Warranty: 2 years comprehensive, possibly lifetime on the frame and fork
  7. Safety Certified: Not specified
  8. Digital Display: Basic LED display

Full Specifications of Schwinn Monroe 250

  • Miles Per Charge: 20-30 miles
  • Max Speed: 20 mph
  • Max Rider Weight: Not specified
  • Waterproof Rating: Not specified
  • Motor Size: 250 watts
  • Battery Size: 36V 11.6Ah
  • Tire Size: 700x32mm
  • Product Weight: 42.5 lbs
  • Dimensions: 71 inches in length (size large)
  • Warranty Length: 2 years comprehensive, possibly lifetime on the frame and fork
  • Frame Material: Aluminum frame with a steel fork
  • Color(s): Red accents on a primarily aluminum frame
  • Inner Tubes: Presta valves
  • Brakes: Linear pull brakes with traditional rubber pads
  • Charge Time: Standard 2-amp charger (charge time not specified)
  • Suspension: None
  • Display: Basic LED display
  • Headlight: Not specified
  • Charger: 2-amp charger