Electric bikes with a cafe racer style usually come with a high price tag, sometimes reaching up to $4,000. The NATO F2 stands out by offering this distinctive look at a more affordable price, making it an appealing option for riders wanting style without the steep cost. Shoppers can choose between a 500-watt and a 750-watt motor, allowing them to balance budget with performance needs.
Besides power options, the bike features a solid battery, adjustable settings, basic disc brakes, and a comfortable, upright seating position. Its design and assembly aim for ease of use and a pleasant experience, even for those new to ebikes. While it may not match pricier models in off-road or high-speed performance, it delivers reasonable value for its cost.
Key Takeaways
- The NATO F2 offers cafe racer style at a lower price than competitors.
- Performance and comfort features are suitable for most riders’ needs.
- The bike is easy to assemble and includes essential safety elements.
Snapshot of Modern Cafe Racer Ebikes
Comparing Top-Tier Cafe Racer Brands
Modern cafe racer ebikes are usually found at the higher end of the market. Major brands include Super 73, Eior, Go Powerbikes, and Ride One Up. These companies offer bikes in this style that regularly cost between $2,000 and $4,000.
The following table shows basic differences in price range among these brands:
| Brand | Bike Style | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Super 73 | Cafe Racer Ebike | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Eior | Cafe Racer Ebike | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Go Powerbikes | Cafe Racer Ebike | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Ride One Up | Cafe Racer Ebike | $2,000 – $4,000 |
These bikes often come with features such as large batteries, full suspension, and a fixed, cushioned seat. More premium models typically include hydraulic brakes, high power motors, and advanced off-road capabilities. Standard components can include dual coil rear shocks, full suspension, and motorcycle-inspired lighting.
Price Differences and What They Really Mean
Most cafe racer style ebikes are expensive, but some newer models are making this style more affordable. For example, there are now options at around $1,200 with a 500W motor, or $1,500 for a 750W motor. While less costly, these models can still reach 25 mph and offer decent features for their price.
Key trade-offs with lower-priced choices may include:
- No hydraulic brakes (just disc brakes)
- Suspension that is less advanced than on high-end models
- Moderate uphill performance, especially with smaller motors
Below is a quick comparison:
| Feature | Typical Premium Model | Lower-Priced Model |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $2,000 – $4,000 | $1,200 – $1,500 |
| Motor Power | Often 750W or above | 500W or 750W |
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc brakes | Mechanical disc brakes |
| Hill Climbing | Strong | Moderate |
| Suspension | Advanced full suspension | Basic full suspension |
| Assembly Needed | Varies | 95% assembled |
Affordable models typically maintain the core look and essential features of cafe racer ebikes but have scaled back on power, off-road comfort, and some quality of components. This offers buyers a chance to experience the style and much of the function without paying top-tier prices.
NATO F2 Features and Key Details
Motor Choices
The NATO F2 comes with two different motor choices. Riders can pick between a 500-watt motor or a more powerful 750-watt version. The 500-watt option is priced at $1,200, while the 750-watt model costs $1,500. Both versions can reach up to 25 mph with either pedal assist or throttle. Riders have access to adjustable pedal assist levels and throttle start settings for a tailored experience.
| Motor Option | Power (watts) | Top Speed (mph) | Price ($USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 500 | 25 | $1,200 |
| Upgrade | 750 | 25 | $1,500 |
Other motor settings, such as sensitivity and power strength, can also be changed through the LCD display for a more customized ride.
Battery Information
The NATO F2 uses a 48-volt, 16-amp-hour battery. Charging the battery fully takes about 4 to 6 hours. The battery is rated for up to 1,000 charge cycles. On a single charge, the bike can go between 30 and 60 miles, depending on how it’s ridden and the terrain.
Battery Quick Facts:
- Voltage: 48V
- Capacity: 16Ah
- Charge time: 4–6 hours
- Estimated range: 30–60 miles
Even after a tough ride with hills, the battery still showed strong performance.
Build and Comfort Details
The frame of the NATO F2 has a compact café racer look and only weighs 68 pounds. Its long seat is fixed and well-cushioned, and the BMX-style handlebars give an upright riding position. The frame works best for riders between 5’3″ and 6’3″, but taller riders may find it a bit small.
For off-road riding, the bike features 20×4 inch all-terrain tires and a full suspension setup, including dual coil shocks at the back. The suspension can be locked or adjusted, but riders may notice the ride gets rough above 10 mph on bumpy ground.
Features List:
- Full suspension (adjustable and lockable)
- 20×4 inch all-terrain tires
- Disc brakes (not hydraulic)
- Front motorcycle-style headlight, rear lights, and fender reflector
- Color LCD display
- Waterproof connectors
- Arrives 95% assembled (handlebars need attachment)
The handlebars have bolted-on grips for extra comfort. The overall ride is quiet with only light brake noise. The bike includes standard disc brakes, with separate levers for each wheel.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Frame weight | 68 pounds |
| Suspension | Full (front & dual rear coil) |
| Tire size | 20×4 inches (all-terrain) |
| Brakes | Disc brakes |
| Handlebar style | BMX-style, upright |
| Lighting | Motorcycle-style headlight, rear |
| Rider height range | 5’3” – 6’3” |
Performance Review
Maximum Speed and Custom Speed Options
The NATO F2 can reach up to 25 mph on both throttle and pedal assist, which is in line with other bikes in this style that average between 25 to 28 mph. The speed rating is slightly lower than some higher-end models, but still delivers a solid performance for its price range.
Users have the option to adjust the speed and pedal assist settings through the onboard menu. The number of pedal assist levels can be changed from five to three for those who prefer simpler controls. There is also a setting to limit the top speed if needed.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Speed | 25 mph |
| Pedal Assist Levels | 3 or 5 selectable |
| Speed Limiting Option | Yes |
Quickness and Pedal Assistance Response
Acceleration on the NATO F2 feels similar to most standard fat tire e-bikes, rather than the quicker takeoff found on some more expensive cafe racer style bikes. While not slow, it doesn’t stand out in terms of rapid acceleration.
The bike’s settings allow users to adjust how quickly the pedal assist activates and how much power is delivered. Sensitivity can be set so the assistance kicks in after only a single pedal revolution, and power can be increased or reduced as preferred. For those seeking immediate response, these adjustments provide a more tailored riding experience.
- Throttle Engagement: Can be set to zero or non-zero start
- Pedal Assist Sensitivity: Adjustable from level 1 (quick) to 24 (slower)
- Power Output: Five levels, from gentle assistance to full strength
Uphill Performance
When tested on a steep hill with a 15% incline, the NATO F2 reached the top, but at a slow pace. Riders in areas with significant elevation may find the 500W version underpowered for steep climbs. Opting for the 750W model is recommended for better uphill results.
The bike’s hill climbing ability is in line with its price and intended use. While it’s capable, those wanting faster hill climbs should consider a higher wattage option.
| Hill Climb Test | Result |
|---|---|
| Grade | 15% |
| Distance | Half a block |
| Outcome | Reached summit, slow pace |
| Recommended Motor | 750W for steep areas |
Distance Capabilities and Battery Duration
Results from Actual Use
Testing showed the bike has a 48V, 16Ah battery. The maker lists a distance range of 30 to 60 miles per charge. During a recent ride, after climbing almost 700 feet of elevation, the battery gauge still showed all bars filled. While this does not mean the battery was completely full, the power drop was minimal. This kind of performance is more common in bikes that cost more.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery Voltage | 48V |
| Battery Capacity | 16Ah |
| Claimed Range | 30–60 miles |
| Elevation Tested | ~700 ft climbed |
| Display after Ride | All bars full |
Charging Duration and Battery Lifespan
The battery needs 4 to 6 hours for a full charge. It is designed to last for 1,000 charge cycles. This means the battery should stay reliable for many uses, even if the bike is used often.
- Charging Time: 4–6 hours
- Rated Life: ~1,000 charge cycles
This gives users a good mix of quick charging and solid long-term battery performance.
Rugged Terrain and Shock Absorption Study
Multi-Surface Tires
The bike uses wide 20×4 inch tires designed for different surfaces. These all-terrain tires can handle dirt trails, pavement, and gravel. They have deep treads, which help give better grip and control when riding off-road. The wide shape helps make the ride feel more stable, even when the ground is loose or bumpy.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Tire Size | 20×4 inches |
| Tread Pattern | Deep, multi-surface |
| Surface Types | Dirt, pavement, gravel |
| Riding Benefit | Improved grip, stability |
Shock System Function
The bike is built with a full suspension system. It has an adjustable and lockable front fork, plus dual coil shocks in the back. This setup is meant to smooth out the ride by absorbing bumps.
While the suspension works well at lower speeds, it performs best between 8-10 mph on rough trails. Going faster than 10 mph makes the ride feel bumpy and shaky. Riders looking for top-tier shock absorbers often pay more or replace these parts. On this bike, the suspension is functional, but not as smooth as more expensive models. This is common for affordable bikes used on rough or mixed terrain.
Braking System And Safety
The NATO F2 comes with mechanical disc brakes. The right lever handles the rear brake, and the left lever controls the front. There are no hydraulic brakes on this model; those are usually only found on more expensive bikes.
When using the brakes, the levers are not linked to the tail light. That means the tail light does not get brighter when braking. Riders should be aware of this, especially in low-light conditions.
You might notice a little bit of squeaking and grinding from the brakes during use. This is normal for this type of setup.
Braking Features Overview
| Feature | NATO F2 |
|---|---|
| Brake Type | Mechanical Disc |
| Hydraulic Brakes | No |
| Brake Lever Setup | Right: Rear, Left: Front |
| Tail Light Activation | Not Connected |
| Brake Noise | Some Squeaking |
Riders should keep in mind that mechanical disc brakes usually require regular checks and occasional adjustment to stay sharp and safe. For those expecting hydraulic performance, it may be better to look at higher-priced models.
Comfort and Riding Feel
Steering Bars and Body Position
The NATO F2 uses handlebars similar to those found on BMX bikes, which create an upright and relaxed riding position. Riders who are around 5’11” will find they can sit straight up without leaning forward. The grips are well-made, secure on the bars, and comfortable to hold during longer rides.
A table below shows details about rider fit and posture:
| Rider Height Range | Handlebar Type | Posture |
|---|---|---|
| 5’3″ to 6’3″ | BMX-style | Upright |
This posture makes it easier to see the road and surroundings, especially on pleasant days.
Saddle Support
The seat on this ebike is fixed in place and has a long, cushioned design. Riders will notice that the seat stays comfortable during most trips. The extra length gives more room to shift and find a good spot while riding.
The soft padding helps with comfort, but taller riders at the upper end of the height range (near 6’3″) may find the overall frame and seating area a bit small. In most cases, though, the seat provides steady support and matches the bike’s casual style.
Lighting and Instrument Panel
Front and Rear Lights
The NATO F2 comes with a large motorcycle-type headlight in the front. This design adds to the classic cafe racer style and provides good visibility at night. In the back, there are taillights and a reflector mounted on the rear fender for extra safety.
Lighting Features Table:
Component Location Type Headlight Front Motorcycle-style Taillight Rear Standard ebike light Reflector Rear fender Safety reflector
It’s worth noting that the brake levers do not connect to the taillight, so the rear light does not get brighter when braking.
Color Display and Waterproof Plugs
The cockpit includes a color LCD display that shows riding details like speed, pedal assist level, and battery life. The screen is easy to see while riding and uses water-resistant connectors to protect the electronics from rain and mud.
- LCD display: Shows speed, battery, assist level
- Waterproof connectors: Keep wiring safe and secure
- Easy to read while riding
Most of the assembly is done at the factory, so only a small amount of setup is needed at home.
Simplicity of Setup
Putting the NATO F2 together is simple and quick. The bike arrives 95% pre-assembled, so there is not much to do. The only step needed is to secure the handlebars with four bolts.
Assembly Overview
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Handlebar Attachment | Secure with four bolts |
| Tools Needed | Included in the box |
| Estimated Time | Under 15 minutes |
No special skills or extra tools are needed. All the main parts, including the wheels and drivetrain, come pre-installed. Anyone new to bikes should not have problems completing the setup.
Key Points
- Most of the work is done at the factory
- No complex steps or hard-to-understand directions
- Easy to follow setup for beginners and experienced riders alike
The simple setup means it is possible to get the bike ready for use soon after unpacking.
Final Thoughts
This ebike offers two motor choices: a 500-watt option for $1,200 and a 750-watt for $1,500. Top speed for both versions is about 25 mph, which matches the average for similar models. Riders can adjust pedal assist and speed settings for a more personal ride experience.
Key Features Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor Power Options | 500W / 750W |
| Top Speed | ~25 mph |
| Battery | 48V, 16Ah |
| Estimated Range | 30–60 miles |
| Weight | 68 lbs |
| Suspension | Full, adjustable |
| Brake Type | Disc brakes (no hydraulics) |
| Tire Size | 20 x 4 inch, all-terrain |
| Assembly | 95% assembled |
| LCD Display | Color, waterproof connectors |
The acceleration feels similar to standard fat tire ebikes, not quite as fast as many high-end cafe racer models. On hills, the bike can make it to the top but does so slowly. Choosing the larger motor is recommended for those in hilly areas.
Off-road riding is possible at slower speeds due to average suspension quality. Comfort is helped by a long, cushioned seat and upright BMX-style handlebars.
The battery lasts for short, high-elevation rides with little loss and is rated up to 1,000 charge cycles. Riders get disc brakes instead of hydraulic, a large headlight, rear reflector, and a condensed lightweight frame best for people up to about 6’3″.
Pros
- Multiple power options
- Large battery and good range
- Mostly assembled out of the box
- Comfortable riding position
- Color LCD and full lighting
Cons
- Suspension is basic for off-road
- Slower acceleration than high-end models
- No hydraulic brakes
- Smaller frame for tall riders
Simple assembly requires just a few bolts for setup, making it beginner-friendly. The bike packs key features found in more expensive cafe racer models, while still keeping the price within reach.
