The Himiway D5 2.0 promises to deliver a full-sized, full-suspension fat tire electric bike that starts just under $2,000. While the market is flooded with fat tire options at this price point, the D5 2.0 distinguishes itself with unique customization options—specifically the ability to switch between torque and cadence sensors—and enhanced off-road capability.
In this review, we break down the components, the deep customization, real-world performance, and whether the heavy 92 lb frame is worth the investment.
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Himiway D5 2.0 Step-Thru YouTube Review: See It In Action!
While we go in-depth on the performance and features below, some things have to be seen (and heard) to be appreciated. Watch our full video review to hear just how quiet the 750W motor runs, see the suspension working over rocky trails, and watch Ryan tackle our massive hill climb test to visually compare the difference between Torque and Cadence modes.
What Makes the D5 2.0 Different?
Himiway’s original fat tire ebike was a best-seller due to its attractive price, but the D5 2.0 introduces features we didn’t see on those early models.
Full Suspension and Comfort
The headline feature is the full suspension setup. The bike features an RST Guide front fork with 100mm of travel, preload adjustment, and lockout. This is paired with a rear suspension system that provides 130mm of travel. Combined with the wide memory foam seat, this setup makes the ride significantly more comfortable than a standard hardtail, smoothing out trails and fire roads.
Switchable Sensor Technology
Perhaps the most notable upgrade is the ability to customize the riding experience through the display. Riders can toggle between a Cadence Sensor and a Torque Sensor. This allows you to choose between the consistent power delivery of a cadence sensor or the natural, amplified feel of a torque sensor.
Advanced Display Customization
Beyond simply switching between sensor types, the D5 2.0 offers an impressive layer of deep customization within the display settings. This allows riders to tailor the bike’s behavior to their exact preferences:
- Class Switching: The bike is fully Class 1, 2, and 3 capable. You can set the bike to Class 1 (20 mph limit, no throttle) , Class 2 (20 mph limit, throttle enabled) , or Class 3 (28 mph limit).
- Speed Limits: Riders can granularly adjust the top speed for both Pedal Assist and the throttle anywhere from 4 mph all the way up to 28 mph. Note: While the throttle can be unlocked to 28 mph for off-road use, the legal limit for throttle operation on public roads is generally 20 mph.
- Torque Settings: You can adjust the maximum torque output for each specific riding mode. If “Turbo” feels too aggressive or “Eco” feels too weak, you can dial in the exact power ceiling you want.
- Assist Ratio (Sensitivity): This setting allows you to adjust the ratio of motor output to your pedaling input. Essentially, this controls the sensitivity of the torque sensor—you can configure it so that a light touch delivers massive power, or dial it back so you have to push harder into the pedals to get a boost.
Brand Name Tires
Unlike many competitors that use generic rubber, Himiway equips the D5 2.0 with Maxxis Minion tires (26 x 4-inch). The specific “FBF” (Fat Bike Front) and “FBR” (Fat Bike Rear) designations suggest a higher quality setup designed for actual off-road traction. As a bonus, these tires are tubeless ready, giving enthusiasts the option to ditch the inner tubes for better grip and puncture protection down the road.
Sleek Integrated Lighting
The bike features a modern lighting system with a 120-lux front light mounted on the stem plate and integrated rear lights in the seatstays, offering both flashing and steady modes, along with brake indicators and turn signals.
Frame and Sizing
The D5 2.0 is available in two distinct frame styles: a traditional Step-Over (available in Space Grey, Midnight Blue, and Olive Green) and the highly accessible Step-Thru we tested (available in Space Grey, Midnight Blue, and a premium Camo for an extra $200).
On the road, the bike feels substantial and planted. While the 92 lb total weight makes it difficult to lift, this heaviness is typical for the fat tire category and contributes to a stable ride feel while supporting a massive 400 lb payload capacity. Comfort is generally excellent, though taller riders should note that Ryan (6’0″) found the stock seatpost too short for full leg extension, likely requiring an aftermarket upgrade for the best fit.
Specs and Components | Himiway D5 2.0 Review
At the heart of the D5 2.0 is a powerful 750W rear hub motor delivering 90 Nm of torque, paired with a substantial 48V 15Ah battery that carries UL 2271 certification for safety. Stopping power is managed by reliable Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors. For those who like to look at all the specs, here is the full breakdown:
Himiway D5 2.0 Performance Review
To see how the D5 2.0 handles real-world riding, we put it through a comprehensive test covering flat ground, steep hills, and light trails.
Throttle-Only Acceleration
Out of the box, the bike ships as a Class 2 ebike with a top speed of 20 mph, though it can be unlocked to 28 mph for off-road use. In throttle-only testing, the 750W motor is extremely quiet—almost to the point where tire noise is louder than the motor. Acceleration is gentle rather than jerky, ramping up smoothly to top speed.
Torque vs. Cadence Sensors on the Himiway D5 2.0
Cadence Sensor Mode
This mode offers a “cruise control” feel. The motor engages simply because you are turning the pedals, regardless of how much pressure you apply. On flat ground, this made for an effortless ride; we found that even in “Eco” mode, the bike quickly ramped up to 20 mph with minimal effort. It is responsive and ideal for commuters who don’t want to break a sweat.
Torque Sensor Mode
Switching to the torque sensor provided a much more natural, bicycle-like experience. The motor amplifies your actual leg power rather than taking over. In “Eco Plus,” it cruised at a leisurely 8 mph, and hitting 20 mph required noticeably more leg input compared to the cadence mode. The torque sensor feels smoother and gives the rider more control over their speed, making it the better choice for exercise or technical riding.
Auto Assist Mode
Himiway also includes an “Auto Pedal Assist” feature, activated by pressing the power button while riding. This feature is designed to automatically adapt the power delivery to changes in terrain, more or less the “set it and forget it” mode. In practice, we found it difficult to use effectively at lower speeds. Once engaged, the bike was eager to surge to 20 mph (and eventually 28 mph).
Hill Climb Test
We took the D5 2.0 up a massive test hill to evaluate the 90 Nm motor against the bike’s heavy 92 lb frame.
- Throttle Only: The bike successfully crested the hill, dropping to a minimum speed of 10 mph. This confirms the 90 Nm motor is capable of hauling the bike’s weight without pedaling.
- Pedal Assist (Torque Mode): Climbing in lower assist levels like “Eco” or “Tour” required significant rider effort. However, switching to “Turbo” made the climb much easier, maintaining 6 mph with moderate input.
- Pedal Assist (Cadence Mode): This mode proved superior for easy climbing. In Turbo mode with the cadence sensor, the bike used all available power to pull Ryan up the hill without requiring forceful pedaling, effectively doing the work for him.
Pros and Cons
The Verdict: Is the Himiway D5 2.0 Worth It?
The Himiway D5 2.0 Step-Thru is a “beast” of a bike that excels where the pavement ends. It is not designed for technical single-track riding, but it is perfect for fire roads, light trails, and comfortable cruising. If you are a taller rider, you may need to invest in a longer aftermarket seatpost. However, if you are looking for a full-suspension ebike that offers the choice between a natural workout (torque sensor) and an effortless commute (cadence sensor), the D5 2.0 offers excellent value at the $1,999 price point.
You can find all of our Himiway reviews here if you’d like to learn more about their lineup. If our reviews help you decide on a model from Himiway, you can support our content for free by using our affiliate link. Thank you for your support!
