Ado Air 28 test: our full opinion –

After the Air 20, here we are at the controls of the Ado Air 28. Still from China, but in a more classic style.

For further
Ado Air 20 Review: A Folding Electric Bike With Real Advantages and One Disturbing Black Spot

Ado Air 28Technical sheet

The bike tested was provided to us by the brand

Ado Air 28Design, assembly and characteristics

The Ado Air 28 sports a truly seductive design that combines a little vintage elegance, while remaining modern. Its low-step aluminum frame, an open frame if you prefer, is available in three pastel colors (gray, sky blue and light yellow).

From my point of view, it evokes the style of Dutch bicycles while offering optimal accessibility. The smooth welds are evidence of good finishing.

The bike weighs 21.5 kg, a relatively low weight for an electric bike in this category.

The battery, cleverly integrated into the seat post, like the Air 20, contributes to an optimal balance between the front and rear of the bike. However, its extraction can be tedious, requiring several careful steps. You have to pull quite hard. This time, Ado thought of installing an anti-theft system.

The Air 28 comes with a full range of equipment including hydraulic disc brakes, a Gates carbon belt drive, a lockable front suspension fork, front and rear mudguards, a rear rack, LED lighting front (powered by the main battery) and rear (batteries), a kickstand, a smartphone holder, as well as a bell with a hidden compartment for the Apple AirTag.

These accessories, impressive for a bike in this price range, promise a hassle-free riding experience. You won’t need to buy anything other than a lock.

Ado Air 28Embedded technologies

The Ado Air 28 incorporates several interesting technologies. A 250-watt Mivice motor (37 Nm torque) is housed in the rear wheel hub. Although modest in power, it proves effective on flat terrain.

The 36V/9.6Ah (345 Wh) Samsung battery is hidden in the seat post, offering an advertised range of 96 km.

The transmission is provided by a Gates carbon belt, combined with an automatic gearbox, promising silent operation and minimal maintenance. The electric assistance system offers 3 to 5 levels (depending on the settings), managed by a torque sensor for a smooth and natural response.

A bright, sunlight-readable 3.5-inch color LCD display shows essential information like speed, battery level, and assist mode. An ADO Smart app lets you customize some of the bike’s settings and access additional features. The bell has a slot for an Apple AirTag, though it’s too easy to access to be truly secure.

Finally, it can be synchronized with an application, which allows you to obtain some information on the smartphone. But also to unbridle the bike, but that’s another subject.

Ado Air 28Driving, braking, comfort and handling

The ADO Air 28 is a pleasantly surprising ride, especially considering its affordable price. The upright riding position, typical of Dutch bikes, effectively relieves the back and offers excellent visibility. The adjustable handlebars allow you to finely adjust your posture for optimum comfort.

The electric assistance, managed by the torque sensor, is progressive and well calibrated. The three levels of assistance (expandable to five via the application) allow you to adapt to different situations.

On flat terrain, the 250W motor does its job perfectly, propelling the bike up to 25 km/h effortlessly. However, its limits quickly appear on steeper slopes, where the lack of torque is felt.

Hydraulic disc brakes, although generic, offer satisfactory stopping power and good progressiveness when properly adjusted.

The lockable front suspension fork does a good job of providing overall comfort by absorbing minor road imperfections. The 28-inch tires provide good stability, but their wet grip leaves something to be desired. In fact, a change to softer tires might be beneficial.

The Gates belt drive, coupled with the automatic gearbox, ensures quiet and smooth operation. The absence of a derailleur greatly simplifies maintenance, a significant advantage for daily use. On the other hand, if your battery is flat, you will struggle.

Ado Air 28Autonomy

Exactly… the real autonomy of the ADO Air 28 is between 50 and 60 km depending on the conditions of use, the weight of the cyclist and the level of assistance chosen.

During our tests, we were able to cover around 40 km with an 80 kg rider, in a temperature of 25°C, mainly using the maximum assistance level.

This result, although lower than the 96 km announced by the manufacturer, remains honest considering the capacity of the battery and the price of the bike.

Fully recharging the battery takes about 6 hours with the supplied charger, which, although basic, does its job adequately. It is possible to reach 80% charge in just over 2 hours, which can be convenient for everyday use.

Note however that the process of removing the battery for charging is quite complex and can be tedious on a daily basis. Personally, I am lucky enough to be able to leave the battery in place, which is a little more convenient.

Ado Air 28Price and availability

The Ado Air 28 is offered at a recommended retail price of 1699 euros, which positions it as a competitive option in the urban electric bike market.

Promotions can sometimes bring its price down to 1499 euros, making it even more attractive. In addition, depending on where you live, you may be eligible for local or national aid for the purchase of an electric bike, which further reduces the final cost.

For further
Bonus for the purchase of an electric bicycle: what assistance is available by region?

This price positioning is particularly aggressive given the characteristics and technologies on board the Air 28. It thus positions itself as a serious alternative to more expensive models.

On the other hand, the bike is available directly on the manufacturer’s website as well as from some specialist retailers. It is important to note that, as this is a relatively new brand on the electric bike market, the distribution and after-sales service network may be less developed than for more established brands.

For further
What are the best electric bikes in 2024? Our selection