In a world where every new bike launch seems bigger and more powerful than the last, there's a certain comfort in feeling something nice and small between your legs again. I'm talking, of course, about the JackRabbit OG2 micro e-bike. The latest update to the original JackRabbit (literally OG) electric two-wheeler format, and by God, it's better than ever!
In addition to the many models I review, this is one you need to see riding. The pictures of the bike don't do it justice, especially since this model has odd proportions compared to other bikes on the market.
To see it in action, check out my video review below. Then read on after that!
JackRabbit OG2 video review
JackRabbit OG2 Tech Specs
- Car: 300W geared rear hub motor
- Top speed: 32 km/h (20 mph)
- Distance: 16+ km (10+ mi) per battery (can carry more batteries in a much smaller space)
- Battery: 151 Wh battery, and the option to replace the 360Wh RangeBuster batteries
- Maximum load: 125 kg (275 lb)
- Weight of the bike: 11.3 kg (25 lb)
- Brakes: Rear mechanical disc brake
- Wheels: 20″ front and rear
- PricePrice: $1,249
- Additional: Thumb throttle, twist grips, folding footpegs, bell, LED dot display, kickstand, optional accessories and accessories
What makes JackRabbit OG2 special?
This is an incredibly special bike because of how unique it is – there is nothing else like it on the market. In fact, it's so unique that other companies have tried – and failed – to rip off the iconic design.
And that design is a solid bicycle-like setup, however with a distinct lack of pedals.
Without having to worry about pesky things like pedals, the JackRabbit can be very short and cramped. That short wheelbase goes hand-in-hand with a slim design, especially considering the special handle mechanism that can turn 90 degrees to create a great flat bike that slips behind the couch or under the bed.
Despite its small size, the JackRabbit OG2 still rides more like a bike than a scooter. Many people prefer the recumbent format of e-bikes as they offer a more stable feel and larger wheels for better safety. Of course, stationary scooter lovers are there. But generally, the common view is, “Why stand when you can sit?”
That's exactly what the JackRabbit OG2 offers riders. And at the same time, it makes a number of significant improvements over the original JackRabbit OG. The frame is similar to a bike, almost BMX in design, creating a strong structure that can support a lot of weight. The footpegs are improved, the display is more detailed, and the tires are better suited for city riders.
The entire bike is also UL compliant, including its battery. In fact, the battery is one of the coolest parts of the JackRabbit OG2. It's just 151 Wh, which is just under the 160 Wh maximum limit of most US airlines for onboard batteries – although you may need prior approval from the airline. Combining that always-on battery capability with a special travel bag designed specifically for the JackRabbit OG2, this is the only e-bike you can take with you wherever you go. It's also popular with boat owners, private pilots, and RVers who all appreciate the convenience of a small but peppy bike to get to their destination.
But what about performance?
The performance of the JackRabbit OG2 is what I would call, “good, but not exciting.”
This is not just a small e-bike rocket, which you might have guessed with a 300W motor. On flat ground it is perfectly acceptable, but it will not climb a hill quickly. For heavier riders, there will be slower acceleration.
That said, it gets 165 pounds of meat and backpack up to 20 mph (32 km/h) quickly enough, and I wasn't left wanting for much more. Sure, the high power sounds great, but I know a small battery would die quickly if I let myself tear this thing apart like a hired mule.
That brings me to the range. A distance of 16 kilometers is about right, although if you are climbing hills or if you are a heavy person, you may find yourself coming a little slower. This is a small battery, literally and figuratively. So you have to know how to enter.
However, the small size of the battery is a plus when you consider how easy it is to stick a second battery in your pocket. It would disappear into the pocket of cargo shorts, and it would easily get lost in the bottom of a backpack. That's how small these batteries are. We are talking about batteries like power tool batteries. So the second carry is not really a big deal. And if you only want to worry about one battery, there's a RangeBuster battery that offers 24 miles of range, which is more than most people will ever need for a small bike like this.
In fact, if you jump on the Black Friday deal that's currently on at the time of this review, you can even get a free RangeBuster battery with your order. That's a great deal!
What is the takeaway?
At $1,249, this isn't the cheapest way to get into a small e-bike. But maybe a small way to get into a small e-bike. And for some, that's the most important thing. Portability is key for many riders, and it doesn't get any easier than the JackRabbit.
There are hundreds of bike models out there to choose from, so I'm glad we have options like this on the smaller end of the spectrum. For those looking for more power or more cargo space, there are other options. Don't choose this one. You wouldn't hold a pocket umbrella in the rain of a typhoon.
There are different tools for different jobs. But if your work revolves around an urban environment with a comfortable, compact e-bike, then this is a great option. And the fact that it's delicious and looks good is just the cherry on top!
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