PVY Z20 Pro review: Convincing, extremely affordable and foldable e-bike with potential for improvement

Basically: The rear wheel hub motor of the Z20 Pro performs reliably and is quite powerful. Since PVY – unsurprisingly in view of the low price – relies on a simple pedal sensor and not on a torque sensor, the motor only intervenes with a slight delay. The manufacturer puts the power at 250 watts, and the torque at 50 Nm.

The maximum achievable speed generally depends on the selected support level. In the first level, assistance is provided up to a maximum speed of 15 km/h, in the second level up to 20 km/h, and in the highest level – up to 25 km/h. Acceleration also becomes stronger. A button next to the display is used to select between the levels.

Due to the technology, the support is less dynamic, so in practice, it jumps in quite brutally, which is less annoying in use, though. Not documented, but possible: The motor can be deactivated while driving by turning the throttle grip. The throttle grip is actually used to activate the push-assist and in the unlocked mode – which is only legal on private property in Germany – also to accelerate. A speed of up to 32 km/h is then possible.

The display is clear but is limited to the most necessary information. The current speed and the selected support mode are displayed, and the distance traveled can also be viewed. The battery level is rough and likes to jump back and forth between several bars, the possible range cannot be displayed. An app that could compensate for the rather weak display is not available.