Someone hit the Q20 with the shrink ray
The Ridstar Q20 has become one of the most popular e-bikes on the market, loved for its moped-style design, big power, and affordable price. But there’s always been one problem—its size. For shorter riders, the full-size Q20 can feel intimidating or even impossible to ride comfortably. Enter the Mini Ridstar Q20, a scaled-down 16-inch wheel version that aims to bring the same Q20 experience to smaller riders. Does it deliver? Lets find out!
Our Latest Videos On The Q20 Mini
Key Features & Specifications
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor | 1500W-rated rear hub motor (less refined than full-size) |
| Battery | 48V 20Ah (same as full-size Q20) |
| Range | ~25–35 miles (depending on throttle vs. pedal use) |
| Top Speed | 30 mph (factory limit ~33 km/h setting) |
| Suspension | Dual suspension: non-adjustable front fork + soft rear shock |
| Frame Size | Compact 16” wheels, lower standover height (better for shorter riders/kids) |
| Brakes | Mechanical disc brakes, 160mm rotors |
| Drivetrain | Shimano 7-speed |
| Display | Small LCD, basic readouts (speed, battery, assist level, voltage) |
| Extras | Phone holder, small storage bag, built-in headlight & taillight with brake light |
| Price | ~$900–$1,000 (more expensive than the full-size Q20) |
Build and Components
At first glance, the Mini Q20 looks like a shrunken clone of its big brother. It shares the same blocky moped-style frame, aggressive stance, and even the same 48V 20Ah battery and 1500W-rated motor (on paper). The differences come in the details.
- Wheels: 16” x 4” (vs. 20” x 4” on the full-size)
- Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes, 160mm rotors (instead of hydraulic)
- Suspension: Dual suspension (front + rear), surprisingly plush on the smaller frame
- Display: Compact LCD (simpler and dimmer than the full-size Q20’s screen)
- Drivetrain: Shimano 7-speed, though this is mainly a throttle-first bike
Ridstar even throws in extras like a phone holder and a small storage bag, though the holder feels a bit cheap compared to what came with the full-size Q20.
Ride Experience
Despite its size, the Mini Q20 doesn’t feel like a toy. In fact, it’s shockingly capable. Top speed hovers around 30 mph, just a hair below the bigger Q20’s 32–33 mph. Acceleration feels punchy, and the throttle response is instant, giving it a lively character.
The rear suspension is actually an improvement over the full-size model—softer and more forgiving, especially off-road. Combined with the fat 16-inch tires, the ride is smoother than you’d expect from such a compact bike.
On the downside, the smaller wheels and frame do make it feel less stable at higher speeds. Letting go of the handlebars, the bike had a tendency to lean slightly, which taller riders will notice more.
Braking performance is fine for what the bike is, but the lack of hydraulic brakes is disappointing considering the Mini costs more than the full-size Q20 on Amazon.
The Good
- Compact Size: Perfect for shorter riders or younger e-bike fans.
- Powerful Motor: Still hits ~30 mph, nearly matching the big Q20.
- Improved Rear Suspension: Softer and more comfortable than the full-size model.
- Familiar Q20 Style: Same beloved moped look, just scaled down.
The Not-So-Good
- Price vs. Value: More expensive than the full-size Q20, despite fewer premium parts.
- Mechanical Brakes: Adequate, but hydraulic brakes would inspire more confidence.
- Dim Display: Hard to read in bright daylight, less refined than the full-size version.
- Stability: Smaller wheels make it feel twitchier at high speeds.
Verdict
The Mini Ridstar Q20 is a fun, quirky, and surprisingly capable smaller version of one of the most popular e-bikes in the world. It doesn’t quite match the value of the full-size Q20—especially considering it costs more while offering less—but for shorter riders who always wanted a Q20 they could actually fit on, this bike finally makes that dream possible.
It’s not perfect, but it’s proof that sometimes smaller can still be mighty.
Looking for more e-bike reviews? Check out our latest guides on Amped Cycle for expert insights on electric bikes and PEVs!
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