Toutche Heileo M100: ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The Toutche Heileo M100 is a hardtail MTB which is built on an Aluminium Alloy frame. This frame is strong enough to handle rough surfaces at high speeds. The strength seems to come mainly from the chunky headset area where the top and bottom tubes merge, which can absorb vibrations of the surface. The slanting top tube gives extra standover clearance for the rider.

The front suspension fork on this MTB comes with an 80mm travel which ensures smooth riding on bumpy roads.

The Heileo M100 which I test rode came in a full Black frame with Green and White as the secondary colours for graphics and text. The matte finish paint job was smooth and premium in quality. The shape of the battery and the bottom tube ensure they blend in as 1 piece in an aesthetic manner. The LED console was minimalistic and simple in design.

This Electric Bicycle is equipped with a simple 1x6-Speed drivetrain. This means there is no front derailleur and the rear has a 6-Speed derailleur. Gears generally help in increasing or decreasing the pressure in pedalling. This 6-Speed drivetrain helps the rider in two ways; for exercise purposes and also to pedal easily if in case the battery power runs out during a ride. The Shimano shifters were basic and were easy to shift with clear gear indicators.

The Heileo M100 is equipped with a 10.4Ah Lithium-Ion battery which powers a rear brushless DC Rear Hub motor. This battery is installed on the top tube of the frame and is detachable. This battery can be easily removed and installed using a simple lock and key system. The 3 Pedal-Assist modes helps in controlling the power generated from the battery per pedal stroke. The thumb throttle on the left side near the grip starts to work only after the motor is activated by pedalling once. If the thumb throttle is let go then one has to pedal again to activate the motor and then the throttle. This can be a little difficult in terms of quick acceleration from a stand still position. The LED display on the handlebar is has the assist levels, walking mode and battery level indicators displayed in a very clean manner.

With 1 full charge this battery is capable of giving 50-60 kms in Pedal-Assist mode and 40-50 kms in throttle mode. These mileages will differ with the varied riding conditions and rider weight. The top speed using just the throttle is 25kmph and the speed can be increased using Pedal-Assist simultaneously. This battery takes 2.5-3 hours to charge from 0 to 100% in any normal Indian plug point. The charging point for the battery is on the left side of the battery, which can be removed and charged separately.

The M100’s stopping power is handled by Repute branded Mechanical Disc brakes at the front and rear. This is a performance-focused brake component and provided powerful stopping power during the test ride in both wet and dry conditions.

The handlebar on this bicycle was of perfect length which enabled an ‘open-chested’ riding posture and also easy manoeuvring in traffic. The grips are cushioned for added comfort.

The Heileo M100 rolls on a pair of Wanda King 26” x 1.95” MTB tires. These tires are heavily treaded and fast rolling, making them perfect for rough/smooth roads and trails. These rims are double-walled which is strong enough to handle rough roads. The stock saddle from Toutche was ergonomically designed for long and soreness free rides.