In an effort to stand apart from the plethora of other e-bikes on the market, more manufacturers are getting inventive with their suspension configurations as electric big tire e-bikes gain popularity. The Fucare Scorpio now offers an innovative spin on the traditional twin rear suspension design for electric bicycles.
And it raises the question: Can you have too much suspension?
Fucare Scorpio Video Review
Fucare Scorpio Tech Specs
- Motor: 750W (1,400W peak-rated) rear hub motor
- Top speed: 32 mph (51 km/h)
- Range: 30-60 miles (50-100 km)
- Battery: 48V 20Ah (960 Wh)
- Weight: 84.4 lb (38.3 kg)
- Load capacity: 400 lb (181 kg)
- Frame: 6061 aluminum alloy
- Brakes: Dual-piston hydraulic disc brakes
- Extras: Color display, front and rear LED lights, included rear rack and full fenders, front and rear suspension, kickstand
Outfitted for multi-purpose riding
The Fucare Scorpio clearly stands out as a versatile e-bike designed to serve multiple purposes. It features front and rear LED lighting, full fenders, and a rear rack, emphasizing its utility and suitability for commuter-style riding. However, it doesn't stop there – equipped with full suspension and fat tires featuring a dual-sport blocky tread, it delivers enhanced off-road performance.
Rather than being confined to a single role, the Scorpio appears to function as a dual-sport electric moped, offering riders the flexibility to navigate both urban environments and rough off-road terrain.
One notable aspect is its high-speed capability, reaching up to 28 mph (45 km/h) or technically 32 mph (51 km/h) in unlocked mode. While such speeds may not be commonly utilized off-road, it suggests that Fucare has tailored the Scorpio to appeal to road riders seeking a compact commuter motorbike experience.
Despite its impressive features and a relatively modest price tag of $1,399, there is a crucial aspect to consider – the suspension. Further details or discussion about the suspension's characteristics and performance are essential to comprehensively evaluate the Scorpio's overall capabilities.
So much suspension
On the surface, the suspension of the Fucare Scorpio appears promising. Featuring a conventional suspension fork at the front and a pair of rear shocks, reminiscent of the classic dual-coilover rear suspension design seen on motorcycles and mopeds from the past, it initially sounds like a reliable setup. However, an issue arises with the dual rear shocks that don't seem to align well with the bike's overall design.
The problem doesn't lie in the concept itself; the dual shocks configuration is a proven and effective setup. The concern revolves around the spring rate of these shocks. There's a suspicion that there might have been an oversight in adjusting the spring rate when implementing the dual suspension setup.
Despite having a maximum load rating of 400 lb, and with the rider weighing only 150 lb (which is not even half of the bike's maximum load capacity), there seems to be minimal movement in the rear suspension. Even with substantial force, such as jumping on it, the rear suspension exhibits only a small amount of flex in the tail. This experience makes the bike feel almost like a hard-tail when riding off-road. While this might not be a significant issue, especially with the added comfort provided by the 4-inch fat tires, it deviates from the expectation that having two shock absorbers would result in twice the shock absorption. In this case, it appears that the dual shocks on the Scorpio may not be delivering the anticipated level of suspension performance.
The front suspension of the Fucare Scorpio provides a satisfying and optimal experience, meeting expectations for off-road excursions. The bike, which has been taken through various terrains, from dirt trails to off-the-beaten-path overlanding, has proven its capability, especially with the assistance of its robust 750W rear motor delivering 1,400W of peak power. Despite the powerful motor, the bike remains versatile and comfortable, with riders often opting to stand while riding to enhance comfort and avoid discomfort from the saddle.
The Scorpio excels in both on and off-road scenarios, delivering good performance in acceleration and achieving a fast top speed. However, some drawbacks should be noted. The pedal assist on this e-bike exhibits a noticeable lag, sometimes taking up to two seconds to engage the motor power when pedaling starts. While this might not be a concern for those relying solely on the throttle, riders who prefer occasional pedaling may find the startup delay disappointing.
In terms of the pedal drivetrain, the Shimano Tourney derailleur, while not high-end, is considered adequate for a $1,399 e-bike. It may require occasional tuning but should generally serve most riders well. On the braking front, the DYISLAND hydraulic disc brakes, though featuring adjustable levers, do not exhibit the expected grabbiness. Upgrading to brake pads with a stickier braking compound might enhance performance, as these hydraulic stoppers, while functional, might not be the strongest in comparison to others tested.
On a positive note, the Scorpio boasts an attractive appearance, with a notable trellis frame design that not only secures and cradles the battery effectively but also adds an extra layer of difficulty for potential thieves attempting to tamper with or steal the battery. The frame offers multiple locking points, facilitating secure locking in various situations, making it convenient for different bike rack shapes.
The mention of the Foldylock Forever as a preferred bike lock adds a practical touch to the review. Praised for its solid construction and exceptional security, it stands out as a top choice among folding locks, as attested by thorough testing and comparison with other options in the market.
Sum it up for me!
Concluding this assessment, I would conclude that the Fucare Scorpio is worth the $1,399 price tag. The bike rides great and is a lot of fun for riding in the mud or on the streets, but I would have appreciated some softer springs in the rear suspension and maybe new sticker brake pads.
Although you could always change the rear suspension yourself if you wanted to, it's great that Fucare provides you with a powerful and long-range frame and platform right out of the box because those are qualities that are difficult to improve upon on your own.
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