The speed test is about gaining an understanding of a bike’s programming. We want to see if the bike moves through the assist levels predictably – good speed test results typically show incremental increases in power from one level to the next. We’re also checking to see if the bike reaches its advertised speeds.
The City Robin 3 is equipped with both torque and cadence sensor options, as well as class 2 and 3 speeds. We tested the bike in each mode to get a full picture of the programming.
To start, I pedaled the bike under my own power with no assist. Here, I averaged 8.8 mph. This bike isn’t a bear to pedal without the motor, but it’s also not what I’d call easy.
I then engaged the motor in class 2 mode using the torque sensor. Eco settled at 9.6 mph, Tour at 13.5, Sport at 16.9, and Turbo at 20.4 mph.
Next, I tested the torque sensor in class 3 mode. Eco averaged 10.7 mph, Tour did 14.4 mph, Sport did 18.6 mph, and Turbo maxed out at 27.8 mph.
Then, I selected cadence mode. In class 2 mode, Eco settled at 13.6 mph, and the remaining 3 assist levels topped out at 20.4 mph. In class 3, Eco averaged 14.5 mph, Tour 20.4 mph, Sport 25.4 mph, and Turbo 29.2 mph.
Let’s break this down into a few key takeaways.
The first is that the City Robin 3 generally feels approachable – there are a few areas that could use more refinement, but overall the programming is solid.
In torque mode, there’s good spacing between the assist levels, and each mode feels bespoke. The sensor does ask for a bit of extra effort, especially if you’re cruising at class 3 speeds. In order to reach 28 mph, you’ll need to give the drivetrain a push, which is not uncommon.
Cadence mode is much more relaxed, but there’s less difference between the assist levels. There’s a fair amount of overlap when at class 2 speeds; Class 3 sees more separation, but in general, the assist levels feel more similar here.
Both sensor options offer bespoke pedal experiences, so riders can choose based on their riding style.
As for the throttle test, we noticed a slight hiccup here – the bike will throttle past 20 mph when in class 3 mode. It does stop at 20 mph when set to class 2 speeds. We discussed the issue with Euphree, and they said that it will be fixed in their upcoming production run.
With that said, the throttle is peppy, but still approachable. It still offers proper eBike fun, but isn’t startling.
Overall, the City Robin 3 exhibits solid programming.