KBO Breeze Review: A Fully Equipped Commuter Ebike That’s Also Affordable!

KBO now has a number of ebike models, but it all started with the KBO Breeze. The Breeze is a commuter ebike through and through. Narrow (but not too narrow) tires, fenders, rear rack, and integrated lights. It also falls into the affordable category especially if you can find it on sale. The regular price is $1,499 but at time of writing there is a $200 off coupon.

Read on for our written review or check out our full KBO Breeze video review below.

KBO Breeze Video Review

KBO Breeze Frame Design

The Breeze comes in two frame designs: high step and step-thru. The main difference between the two is accessibility, both getting your leg over the bike and height ranges. The KBO Breeze high step fits riders 5’4″ – 6’4″ whereas the high-step fits riders 5’2″ – 6’3″. We tested a rider 5’5″ and 6′ tall on the high step and the frame was accommodating to both riders. Both bikes weigh in at 62 lbs.

There are color differences, the high step is offered in a really nice orange color as well as black. The step-thru is offered only in white. And finally one notable difference is the step-thru battery is integrated into the frame whereas the battery protrudes from the frame slightly on the high step model.

While the KBO Breeze does not come with an adjustable stem, the handlebars have a slight swoop to them, putting the rider in a slightly more upright riding position.

Electronics

Simple LCD Display

This is where things get interesting, particularly with the battery. The KBO Breeze comes with a larger-than-average 48V 16Ah battery (768 watt-hours). Usually bikes around this price point come with 14Ah batteries. The motor is a 500 watt sustained, 750 watt peak motor that feels plenty zippy. In our experience, even in pedal assist 1 this ebike really takes off – maybe too much for some rider’s liking. And of course if you don’t feel like pedaling at all, a right hand twist grip throttle is at the ready.

The display is a simple and small monochrome LCD display on the handlebars’ left side. A 3 Amp charger will fully charge your battery from empty in just over 5 hours.

Large 16Ah battery

KBO Breeze Top Speed

This ebike can reach speeds up to around 21 mph on throttle alone or while pedaling. Though KBO notes the bike can be unlocked to reach speeds of 25 mph+ while pedaling. Be sure to follow all local laws and regulations and make changes to the settings at your own risk.

Components

For the drivetrain, the KBO Breeze includes many of the same components we find on many budget priced ebikes. This includes the Shimano 7-speed thumb shifter paired with a Shimano Altus rear derailleur. The tires are 27.5 x 2.4″ to give a little more stability while still offering a riding experience of a more city-oriented ebike with a street tread. A basic front suspension fork provides additional comfort over bumps.

KBO opted for name-brand Tektro Aries mechanical disc brakes with 180 mm rotors. In our experience, these are a great choice on more affordable electric bikes and hold up well over time. Included on the KBO Breeze are integrated front and rear lights as well as front and rear metal fenders. A rear rack with pannier hangers is also included.

Our Take

The KBO Breeze has all the features of a solid entry level electric bike. KBO competes well on price so you may even find this ebike stacks up better compared to other ebikes on the market. Part of this competitiveness is due to KBO being a Chinese based company which means support responses might be a bit delayed. Still the company now has a wide range of ebike models available and customer’s overall seem happy with the brand. Learn more about the KBO Breeze or check out our review of the KBO Ranger.

KBO Breeze Review
Electronics (Battery, Motor, Display)
8.5
Components (Shifter, Derailleur, Fork)
8.5
Frame/Geometry
9
KBO breeze Pros
Larger than average battery
Fully accessorized
Step-thru option
Name-brand brakes
Value priced
KBO Breeze cons
Pedal assist 1 can feel quite powerful for some
Overseas based support
8.7