Ahooga Folding Power + (36V)
The origins of Ahooga
Smart Design
The Ahooga Folding may look like other folding bikes at first glance, but there are some unique features that sets it apart from anything else on the market.
It’s built with a classic, retro-styled stiff aluminum triangular frame. The bike is designed with a pair of double downtubes which allows the back wheel to swing in between the tubes when folding. This blends in nicely with the 20” wheels that offer a comfortable and stable ride.
The hinge free design helps to create a rigid yet dynamic riding experience. In many ways, the Ahooga Folding is more comparable to a bike with full size geometry.
Available in 3 models
- No electric assistance
- Promax caliper brakes and pads
- Schwalbe Kojak tyres
- 12kg
”Great choice for those who are on the move.
- Battery 168Wh
- 250W engine
- Torque: 35Nm
- Up to 45km range
- Max speed 25 km/h
- Schwalbe Marathon Racer tyres
- Promax caliper brakes and pads
- 16kg
”It's the perfect companion when you have to go uphill.
- Battery 252Wh
- 250W engine
- Torque: 40Nm
- Up to 60 km range
- Max speed 25 km/h
- Schwalbe Marathon Plus tyres
- Disc brakes
- 17.4kg
”If you want more speed and power, the Power + (36V) is for you!
More in the Details
Additional Specs
Frame: Hinge-free aluminum 6061
Motor: Aikema 250W motor
Battery: Li-Ion. Panasonic cells. 7Ah. 252Wh
Power Modes: 5 mode assistance levels + Walk Assist
Range: Up to 60 km of assisted riding
Speed: 25 km/h
Torque: 45Nm
Tires: All seasons, multi-tracks, Schwalbe Marathon Plus
Saddle: Selle Royal Scientia M2
Lights: LED lights. 40/20 lumens (front/rear). USB rechargable.
Transmission: Shimano Acera. 7 Speeds
Weight: 17.4 KG
Rider height: 155cm-200cm
Folding the Ahooga Power 36V
After some practice, it takes about 10-15 seconds to fold the Ahooga down to a compact size (L85xH74xW30cm.)
To begin, the rear wheel will swing into the triangle frame while the front wheel is turned to the right on a slight angle. Pushing the top tube down and backwards will tilt the bike allowing the seat post to go down after the clamp is unlocked. The handlebar stem will fold down to the side after releasing the security tigger followed by the lever.
The front wheel is then removed using the quick release system. The wheel is then mounted on a hook on the front on the right chain stay. The final step is to fold the pedals by pulling the triggers.
If you need to roll the bike anywhere, the seat tube can be extended and the bike angled back on to the small rolling wheels. The bulbous shape of the wheels are ideal and makes for an effortless experience if you need to roll the bike anywhere.
Charging the Ahooga
Riding the Ahooga Power 36V
I was pleasantly surprised by the stiff and stable ride. The full-size geometry offers excellent control with the 20” wheels. The handlebar stem can be adjusted for an ideal palm position while your hands rest on rubber ergo grips. This all comes together nicely for a compliant and comfortable riding experience.
As the Ahooga Power + (36V) is equipped with 7 speed gears, you can find that sweet spot of pedalling while using minimal power assist. There is an unnoticeable delay with the electric motor when at a stop, but when you begin to pedal, the power is responsive and the 40 Nm of torque is more than sufficient with such a light bike.
But in power mode 5, you can reach speeds of about 27 km/hr. This is where the most fun can be had and I was surprised with the superb acceleration and speed when using the top power mode.
Riding in Hybrid Mode
I love the idea of riding in hybrid mode with an electric bike. It’s a great way to extend your range as well as the life of your battery.
The Folding Power + (36V) offers a decent ride without any power assist. There is a touch of resistance when not using the power assist. But it was more than sufficient when cycling at higher speeds.
Ahooga in Amsterdam
In a city where there are literally more bikes than people, I can honestly say that I haven’t seen an Ahooga in Amsterdam. That can be a bit of mystery as any bike that rolls is welcome. But also considering the fact that the Folding is quite popular south of the border in Belgium.
Folding bikes are pretty common in Amsterdam and the Ahooga would be a great choice in that regard. For one, they ride for free for those who commute by train. This is a nice money-saver in the long run as traditional bikes need to pay € 3 per trip.
As I put the Ahooga Power + (36V) to the test riding in heavy traffic, tackling inclines on bridges and an assortment of city terrain, there was little doubt the bike belongs here.
Cobbled roads within the old city district is not where the bike will shine with the smaller tires, but it’s a comfortable enough ride that it won’t detract much from the riding experience.
But on smooth flat bike lanes is where the Ahooga Power + (36V) really excels. This was especially evident during rush hour when bicyclists bunch around at intersections choosing their pole position. I could squeeze into spots I normally wouldn’t with a larger bike. Once the light turns green, the control and sublime electric assist ensures that I could get ahead the game.
I had to tone down my excitement at times because I had the tendency to blurt out “AHOOGA!” when I had passed swaths of bicyclists.
But it just seemed like a natural inclination as riding the Folding is a wholly satisfying experience and really made for an enjoyable ride.
Final Thoughts
”The Ahooga Power + (36V) is a dynamic compact folding bike that's fast, comfortable and super fun to ride.
GusRolling Spoke
