I recently had the opportunity to test out the DYU D3F folding “mini” e-bike. Priced at a stellar $369, this 36-Volt compact electric bike promised simplicity, portability, and affordability. And, after a few weeks of riding, I’m excited to share my honest thoughts on whether this budget-friendly eBike is worth your time.
First Impressions of the DYU D3F
What immediately caught my attention about the D3F (after unboxing and assembling it) was the sleek design and the interesting way they housed the battery and controller between the top and bottom tubes of the bike frame.
This, coupled with the flat black paint job and red trim on the hubs, logo, and headlight make for a clean aesthetic that stands out from the crowd. It might even look reminiscent of the A-Team van.
But, beyond aesthetics, what truly impressed me was the DYU D3F’s simplicity and ease of use.
Simplicity at Its Core
One of the standout features of the D3F is its uncomplicated design. As a single-speed bike, there are no shifters, cassettes, or derailleurs to worry about. Just pedal (or throttle) and go! I found this simplicity refreshing, especially for those new to eBikes.
Portability: A Major Plus
The D3F truly shines when it comes to portability. With tiny 14-inch by 2.25-inch tires, foldable handlebars and pedals, and a lightweight frame, this e-bike can be stored in the tightest of spaces. And, weighing in at just 38 pounds (or, 17 kg), it’s significantly lighter than most standard eBikes, which typically range from 50 to 100 pounds!
Clever Carrying Feature
The bike’s design includes several thoughtful touches. For instance, the electronics and battery housing has a cutout section that doubles as a handle, making it easy to carry upstairs or lift into a car trunk.
What are the D3F’s Dimensions?
When folded, the bike’s dimensions shrink to a mere 46 by 8 by 28 inches, perfect for small apartments or office storage.
Performance and Specifications
The D3F has a motor, and throttle, and sub-20 mph top speed, making it a Class 2 e-bike. In my tests, I found it reached a top pedal-assisted speed of 15.5 mph, perfect for new riders! The 36-volt battery has 10 amp-hours of juice totaling 360 watt-hours of capacity.
Full Twist-Grip Throttle!
The bike features a full-size twist grip throttle on the right-hand grip, which I preferred over thumb or half-grip options. The controls are straightforward, with power and headlight buttons easily accessible on the handlebars.
What About the Ride Quality?
While the D3F doesn’t have front or rear suspension (typical for its price range), it does include front and rear fenders to keep you clean during rides. The single-sided crankset chain guard is another nice touch, preventing chain derailment and keeping your clothes clean.
Who Is This eBike For?
The DYU D3F is perfect for anyone looking to enter the world of eBikes without breaking the bank. Its simplicity and lower top speed make it an ideal choice for first-time e-bike owners. It’s also a great option for experienced riders looking for a portable, no-fuss option for quick trips or last-mile commutes.
Despite its compact size, the D3F can support riders up to 265 pounds. At 6 feet tall and 175 pounds, I found it comfortable, albeit a little cramped, for my riding needs.
PROS/CONS of the DYU D3F
So, based on my time with the DYU D3F, here’s a comprehensive list of what I feel are it’s best pros and “least-favorable” cons:
17 Pros of the DYU D3F:
- Affordable price point at $369
- Compact and lightweight design (38 pounds/17 kg)
- Foldable handlebars and pedals for easy storage
- Integrated handle in the frame for easy carrying
- Waterproof rating of IP54
- Mechanical disc brakes for reliable stopping power
- Brake lever cut-off switches for added safety
- Included headlight and tail light
- Simple, easy-to-use controls
- 12-month comprehensive warranty
- 14-day return policy
- Decent range (15-35 miles on throttle, 30-37 miles with pedal assist)
- Low step-through frame design for easy mounting
- Single-speed drivetrain for simplicity
- Suitable for riders up to 265 pounds
- Ideal for short commutes and last-mile transportation
- Fun and nimble riding experience
5 Cons of the DYU D3F:
- Non-removable battery
- Limited top speed of 15.5 mph
- Small 14-inch wheels can make for a bumpy ride
- Twitchy and potentially unstable handling due to short wheelbase
- Not suitable for tall or large riders due to small frame size
