HiKeep has taken the success of the K6 series and packaged it into a retro frame. Has it worked?
HiKeep has been releasing some great bikes lately. The K6 series bikes were awesome moped style bikes, and now the MG series is experimenting with the same moped formula in a fun, retro package.
You’ll find the same 20×4 inch knobby tires, along with a familiar 48v 15.6Ah battery, and retro cafe racer seat. They also make a dual motor variant (MG-T) which adds another 1500w peak motor to the front.
In the back we find a unique quad shock system, and our 7 shimano gears, along with a taillight with integrated turn signals.
So has HiKeep done it again with the MG series? Lets test it and find out!
Latest Videos on The HiKeep MG-L
Key Features & Specifications
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor | 750W sustained / 1500W peak rear hub motor (unlocks to 30 mph) |
| Battery | 48V 15Ah removable battery (~25-mile throttle-only range) |
| Suspension | Quad-shock rear + adjustable front fork (firm but responsive) |
| Tires | 20×4″ knobby fat tires (Xiaoyang Na’vi tread) |
| Brakes | Mechanical disc brakes (160mm, cable-actuated) |
| Extras | Retro brown seat, halo headlight, turn signals, 7-speed Shimano gears |
Performance Breakdown
Power & Speed: Surprisingly Zippy
The 1500W peak motor delivers strong acceleration, though it’s software-limited to 20 mph out of the box. Thankfully, we unlocked it to ~30 mph (see “Real-World Testing” below).
- 0-20 mph: ~5 seconds (throttle-only)
- Hill Climbing: Struggles on steep inclines without pedal assist but handles moderate slopes.
- Unlocked Top Speed: 28–30 mph (varies with battery charge and weightd).
Ride Comfort: Unique but Firm Suspension
The four rear shocks look unique but ride firmer than expected. They absorb bumps better than a hardtail but aren’t as plush as a full-suspension MTB.
✅ Pros:
- Stable on rough terrain (grass, light trails).
- Adjustable front fork compensates for the stiff rear.
- Retro brown seat is wider and more comfortable than standard e-bike saddles.
❌ Cons:
- Pedal interference: The rear shocks can scrape your heels if pedaling aggressively.
- No hydraulic brakes: Cable brakes require harder pulls for strong stopping power.
Range & Battery Life
- Throttle-Only: ~25 miles (tested).
- Pedal-Assist (Mixed Use): ~35–40 miles (estimated).
- Charging Time: ~6 hours with the included 2A charger.
Real-World Testing
City Commuting: ★★★★☆
The MG-L’s 20×4″ tires and upright moped stance make it great for urban rides. The halo headlight and turn signals add safety, though the lack of a rear rack limits utility for errands.
Off-Roading: ★★★☆☆
The knobby tires and quad-shock suspension handle light trails and grass well, but steep hills require pedal assist. Not a true off-roader, but fun for casual exploration.
Unlocking Hidden Speed
By holding the throttle + brake lever during startup, we bypassed the 20 mph limiter, hitting 28–30 mph. A game-changer for thrill-seekers!
Design & Build Quality
- Paint & Finish: Slate gray/blue metallic with a glossy, car-quality clear coat (resists scratches).
- Retro Touches: Brown cafe racer seat, spoked wheels, and minimalist branding.
- Oddities: Controller box protrudes noticeably; no USB charging port.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
👍 Great For:
- Urban riders who want head-turning style.
- Budget buyers seeking a 1500W motor under $1,200.
- Casual off-roaders (light trails, parks).
👎 Not Ideal For:
- Delivery gigs (no rack mounts).
- Steep hill climbers (motor strains without pedal help).
- Comfort seekers (firm suspension, heel-scraping shocks).
Rating: 8.0/10
| Category | Score (★/5) |
|---|---|
| Power | ★★★★☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★☆☆ |
| Range | ★★★☆☆ |
| Build Quality | ★★★★☆ |
| Value | ★★★★☆ |
Where to Buy
Check out the HiKeep MG-L HERE (affiliate link supports our channel!).
Final Thought: The MG-L’s bold design and unusual suspension make it a standout, but the firm ride and cable brakes hold it back. If you prioritize style and torque over luxury, it’s a fun, budget-friendly pick.
Looking for more e-bike reviews? Check out our latest guides on Amped Cycle for expert insights on electric bikes and PEVs!
Affiliate Disclaimer
Amped Cycle offers objective personal electric vehicle reviews. Some bikes we buy, some bikes are sent by the manufacturer or 3rd party. Any links used in this article and our YouTube channel may be affiliate links, Which means we make a commission that helps support our channel when you buy through those links. It costs nothing extra to you.
