UM-DB05

Comments

Why is the UM-DB05 electric bicycle so popular? Let’s learn more about the product through this article!

Construction and Appearance
The UM-DB05 is compact. Measuring 171 x 65 x 108 cm, it’s versatile and comfortable for riders between 1.80 and 1.90 cm tall. It’s surprisingly lightweight at just 52 kg and can even be lifted by hand! Available in black or white, it features striking details like red brake calipers and nickel/silver-plated components. The white model is actually two-tone (white and black), while the black model is “all black.” This is the model we currently have, as you can see in the video and photos.

From the outside, it truly is the definition of a lightweight motorcycle! Its “lightweight” construction means certain components aren’t covered in plastic, significantly reducing bulk. Front and rear fenders ensure a clean ride on wet roads, and the rear fender even has its own support. Side and center stands provide support when parked. The saddle is also beautifully constructed, seemingly “floating” above the rear, while the headlight and its housing create an aggressive look. You’ll also notice the presence of pedals in the photos, which we’ll discuss later. Finally, despite having very few plastic parts, the UM-DB05 will soon begin to squeak if used on poor surfaces, as our roads are notoriously difficult.

Engine and Performance
The UM-DB05’s name belies its maximum power. It boasts 1000W, with a nominal continuous power rating of 800W. The hub motor is integrated into the rear wheel. Due to its large size, it delivers satisfying torque and is completely tireless.

In terms of performance, 800-1000W is enough to propel you up to 45 km/h (GPS) on a straight and slightly downhill ride. Assuming a rider weight of 75-80 kg, the Portable/1000 can comfortably travel at a comfortable speed (30+ km/h) on gentle slopes of approximately 5%. On steeper slopes approaching 10%, its speed drops to 20 km/h. For this rider’s weight, reaching around 15-20% is the limit, as you’ll need to… pedal to continue. Of course, this assumes the battery is high and in Mode 3. As the battery depletes, speed and power will decrease. Approaching 10% will give you a straight-line speed of about 25 km/h, which is indicative.

Bonus… pedals!
You’ll notice that it also has a small gear, so it receives movement from the pedals via the chain. The pedals are removable, which doesn’t affect the scooter’s operation or its classification as a vehicle in any way. However, they are useful on long climbs to assist the motor and can also be used if the battery is depleted. They’re also ideal for leisurely rides on sidewalks/bike paths, if you want to keep up with pedestrians at a low speed. If you remove them, the chain remains in place, but it doesn’t burden the motor in any way. Notably, the motor is completely silent, as is the rest of the gearing.

Battery and Charging
The battery is, of course, removable and located under the saddle. It runs at 48V, has a capacity of 26 Ah, and weighs approximately 7 kg. Its shape is odd (at a 45-degree angle), and the housing takes up more space than the battery itself. This is because, after ordering and consulting with the company, it’s possible to install a battery with approximately 50% more capacity, increasing the range by almost the same percentage (approximately +40 km). However, the result is almost no space left under the saddle. There’s a relay next to the battery, and although it’s “squeezed,” it’s relatively easy to remove. It charges with the provided 250W charger, which also features an active cooling system. Fortunately, it’s relatively quiet (we measured 30dB in a small, enclosed room). Therefore, you can sleep next to it while it charges, or concentrate on work without being disturbed. It doesn’t get hot at all; the only drawback is the short cable (between the socket and the charger).

It takes 6.5 hours to fully charge a completely dead battery until the charger stops working. Actually, the last few minutes are the “charging ramp,” so we’ll assume 6 hours and 15 minutes. If the scooter’s parking space has an electrical outlet, you can charge it without removing the battery. The charging port is located upside down, under the seat, above the rear wheel. It’s important to note that the battery is rated for approximately 850 charge cycles, or nearly 50,000 kilometers.

Autonomy and Usage and Maintenance Costs
Let’s move on to another important aspect: range. The dealership claims a range of 80 kilometers for the UM-DB05. Under normal conditions, this is achievable for a rider weighing 75-80 kg at a top speed of 30 km/h on mixed routes. For the 45 km/h top speed version, you’ll likely be using Mode 3 the entire time. In this mode, we achieved a range closer to 50-55 kilometers on mixed routes. For us, this is a realistic range for this model, but it doesn’t mean you can’t “see” 80 kilometers on a single charge.

According to our meter, a full charge requires 1.5 kWh of electricity. In the worst-case scenario, this translates to a cost of approximately 0.5 € per 100 km. If you use nighttime charging and/or have a lighter vehicle (thus extending the range), then ideally, your cost might be around 0.2 € per 100 km. Maintenance, however, involves only the disc brakes and tires, making it very low.

Suspension, Handling, Braking
The UM-DB05 features a basic front suspension and a dual airbag suspension at the rear, equipped with springs and an external air reservoir. Comfort-wise, it provides basic cushioning on rough roads, but fatigue can be a problem after extended rides. The narrow footpegs don’t help matters, especially for taller or stockier riders. However, it’s stable and agile in all conditions, inspiring the necessary confidence.

The wheels are 14 inches, and the tires are 18×2.5 inches, tubeless-ready. The width is sufficient for the traction required for the scooter’s weight and power. Braking is satisfactory, combined with the front and rear hydraulic disc brakes. It’s important to note that there’s no regenerative braking, and therefore no electronic brakes.

Indicators and Indicators
Like all electric scooters on the market, both the front and rear lights are LED. The turn signals are very attractive and meet European standards. The front lights consist of daytime running lights and a central floodlight with two “trapezoidal” lights. The beam is sufficient for city use. The light’s trajectory as the steering wheel turns also makes a difference. The high beam is small and focused toward the center and far distance, enhancing visibility on dark, straight roads. In the city, the front light is sufficient to illuminate us; however, on dark roads and outside of the city, we would have liked more powerful illumination from the “mid” beam LED. The rear red beam, while smaller, provides powerful illumination both day and night.

Regarding the screen, we were particularly pleased with the LCD panel. The display proved much clearer during the day in countries with strong sunlight. Most electric scooters on the market, even those costing twice as much, suffer from glare. However, the UM-DB05 doesn’t have this issue. The screen displays speed, battery level (though not always accurate), temperature, and operating mode. Just above it are flashing, low-battery, and light indicators. There’s also a “ready” indicator, activated by a button on your right thumb, which allows you to start the scooter. Finally, the screen glows blue at night.

Other Features
Other features of the UM-DB05 include keyless entry and a USB charging port. The latter works perfectly with the included smartphone holder. This may seem a bit… odd, but many models we’ve tested don’t have a place to screw in a smartphone holder. The EMW model comes pre-installed, so you can use it for navigation comfortably.

Keyless entry is available through the alarm remote. You can virtually unlock and start the scooter with it, without having to insert a key into the ignition. Locking the scooter is just as easy. It’s worth emphasizing that the horn and siren are both very powerful. This is a feature that shouldn’t be overlooked on all models on the market.

Usable Space and Cargo Transport
As mentioned above, there’s very little space under the seat. For storage, the UM-DB05 has a plastic box on the front. It unlocks with a key and can hold small items, such as your phone, keys, wallet, etc. Unfortunately, it doesn’t fit the scooter charger, so you’ll need to find other means of transport.

There’s a hook in front of the footrest for hanging a bag or wallet. There’s also a relatively small metal handle behind the saddle for hanging another suitcase, etc. This scooter can carry 150 kg (including the rider). Of course, it also comes with foldable aluminum footrests for a second rider, if needed.

Conclusion
The UM-DB05 is an entry-level electric scooter that meets your basic transportation needs at a very low price. Its price is essentially the same as a small or medium-sized electric bicycle, but it offers the comfort and safety of a scooter. It’s well-suited for riders weighing up to 80-90 kg and is suitable for routes without significant inclines, while its autonomy covers most people in city centers. Obviously, even within the UM series (such as the UM-DC01 and UM-DC02), there are options that offer greater comfort, power, and autonomy, but at least twice the price. We recommend it for those looking to “get started” with electric vehicles and ditch the car for urban routes, as well as for those looking to upgrade from a scooter or bicycle at a relatively low cost!

Contact us to have a prototype produced to initially test product performance and potential user feedback in your local market.