The Bicycle
The Bann Zen is a bike with strong trekking roots. It features a front suspension fork and a single chainring crankset. It is built on an aluminum frame with oversized tubing, conveying stiffness and robustness, while internally housing the battery that powers the electric drive system in the rear wheel.
The drivetrain (aside from the pedal assist) is comprised of Shimano components, a mix of Acera and Tourney series. The bike’s wheels are aluminum with double-wall rims.
As for the rest of the components, the disc brakes responsible for deceleration are Avid BB5, designed to communicate with the motor control unit. The fork is a product of Zoom, offering 80mm of travel, which easily absorbs road obstacles. Other cockpit components are made of aluminum to keep the weight at reasonable levels without increasing the cost.
The Electric Drive System
The Zen’s motor is located in the center of the rear wheel, delivering 250 watts of assistance (500W peak). It is powered by a battery with Samsung lithium-ion cells, 36 volts and 11Ah in capacity.
Together, the battery, motor, and pedal assist level provide a range of up to 60 kilometers. The electric system is managed by a central control unit, which clearly displays all the information the rider needs: ride data, battery status, assist level, time, and temperature.
The control unit is connected to a remote on the left side of the handlebar, allowing the rider to adjust the assist level, as well as activate a walk-assist mode for pushing the bike. The battery also powers the lighting system, which is automatically activated by a light sensor.
Impressions
The first ride on the Zen strongly resembles that of a trekking bike. The riding position and the frame’s bold appearance with oversized tubes suggest a sporty character. The frame’s sturdiness is immediately noticeable, and the bike quickly feels familiar after just a few pedal strokes.
The Zoom suspension fork is capable of smoothing out the terrain, activating even with small obstacles encountered by the front wheel. When the assist system is engaged, the first uphill stretch becomes surprisingly easy, as the motor promptly delivers the needed boost.
In higher assist levels, riding becomes even more enjoyable and effortless. On steeper climbs, the single chainring crankset makes higher levels of assistance essential. The motor’s response is satisfactory, activating after almost a full pedal rotation.
Gear shifting is smooth and trouble-free, as Shimano is well-regarded in this domain. On the braking side, the Avid BB5 brakes do a commendable job, capable of bringing the bike to a stop even when it's moving close to 35 km/h.
Conclusion
The Zen from E-BANN is a proven implementation of a formula that combines the reliability of trekking bikes with the comfort sought by urban commuters. The presence of fenders and integrated lighting systems spares the buyer from future upgrades, while the electric motor helps riders who live or travel in hilly areas.
The overall quality and riding experience will satisfy those looking for a boost in their city commuting or weekend leisure rides.
Specifications
Motor: 250W
Wheel Size: 26''/28''
Frame: Aluminum
Top Assisted Speed: 24 km/h
Range: 40 – 60 km
Gearing: Shimano 7-speed
Battery: 36V 11Ah Lithium (Samsung battery cells)
Brakes: Front and Rear Disc Brakes (Avid BB5)
Lights: Fixed LED front lights
Chain: KMC
Fork: Zoom
Display: 5-level pedal assist LCD display with backlight and light sensor