QuietKat Ranger Review, 2024

We performed two separate Range Tests with the Ranger to evaluate the life of its 48V, 768 watt-hour (Wh) battery and the efficiency of its 1,000W rear-hub motor. We pedaled the bike in its Class 2 riding mode along our local network of bike paths, while using Strava to track our progress.

By testing the bike in Eco Mode and Boost Mode, we established a real-world bracket of values; we measured results of 27.6 and 30.2 miles using the bike’s highest and lowest assist settings respectively.

When compared to similar all-terrain e-bikes we have tested, the Ranger’s results were relatively unusual, though there are clear explanations for these differences.

First, it is uncommon for the high- and low-end values to be so close, but considering the results of our Speed Test – where there was little discernible difference in speeds on paved surfaces – this tracks. With nearly identical motor output in Eco and Boost Modes, we should expect the values to be similar.

Second, while the Ranger’s range may seem average-to-low in comparison to similar e-bikes, we must consider its battery capacity and its type of motor.

Most of the all-terrain bikes we have tested have been host to mid-drive motors, which are naturally more efficient than rear-hubs due to their reliance on input from the rider. The Ranger uses both a torque and a cadence sensor to inform motor output, but in our testing, seemed to rely more on the less-efficient cadence sensor.

The bike’s shorter range also corresponds to a difference in battery capacity. With one exception, the Ranger’s 768 Wh battery was smaller than average among the all-terrain e-bikes we’ve tested, meaning that its “gas tank” ran dry earlier than those of its competitors.

Regardless, the Ranger turned out to be more efficient than we expected based on its motor and battery specs; this is likely a result of its torque sensor. We anticipated that our Boost Mode test would last only 61 minutes with a distance of roughly 21 miles. Our final results showed a 55% increase in time and a 31% increase in distance.

We found the bike’s range to be practical in our testing, though we also did not use the bike to haul cargo (or game). Those who plan to cover a longer round trip or carry a significant payload may want to consider adding QuietKat’s optional solar charging station that allows for refueling literally anywhere the sun shines.

With its throttle, the bike steadily climbed with an average speed of 11.4 mph, resulting in a start-to-finish time of 1 minute, 35 seconds. When our test rider Justin added his effort to the mix using Boost Mode, his speed increased to 13.1 mph. There, he reached the end of the path in 1 minute, 23 seconds.

Comparing the Ranger to similar e-bikes we have tested is somewhat of an apples and oranges situation; most of the all-terrain bikes we have data for used mid-drive motors, which behave much differently on hills. Bikes with 1000W rear hub motors are less common, so we only have a few to compare to, but even some of these bikes had significant differences – such as 52V electrical systems that make for faster climbers.

In our pool of similar e-bikes, the Ranger’s data places it near the bottom of the list, but this ranking should not be confused with inability. In fact, the Ranger’s proximity to other QuietKat e-bikes we’ve reviewed in our ordered data establishes continuity and suggests that they prioritize low-end torque for hauling over sheer speed.

The Ranger proved quite capable both in this formal test and in the field; Boost Mode unleashed the motor’s full force to make our uphill climbs nearly effortless. Justin remarked that he had only to apply a light amount of effort when performing the pedal portion of our Hill Test. In my own testing on desert roads and trails, only the most intimidating slopes proved daunting in Boost Mode, but Trail Mode did the job in most places.

Prospective buyers should rest assured that the Ranger can handle tough climbs, and even offers the ability to do all of the work for you with the throttle.

The bike excelled in comfort; its mostly-upright riding position felt natural and enjoyable. The memory foam saddle was supportive and accommodating, while the squishy rubber grips had the texture and “stickiness” to make them practical while wearing gloves.

Our test bike was slightly on the small side for my height of 5’-11”, but fortunately it is available in three frame sizes (S,M,L) for a range of riders under 5’-6” to over 6’-0”. Differences between the Medium and Large are relatively sparse, however, with a primary difference in seat tube length – meaning that both frames will likely feel very similar.

In terms of handling, the Ranger is big. Its wheelbase of 1190 to 1222.5 mm (depending on frame size) is comparable to many cargo e-bikes we’ve reviewed. As such, it does not have the most nimble feel, though its steering is made precise by the wide 740mm handlebars. When riding on desert roads and trails, these bars helped me to feel balanced and stable, while allowing me to direct the bike exactly where I needed it to go.

QuietKat specced a coil suspension fork with 100mm of travel, which performed very well in my testing. The bike’s tires were another huge contributor to its ride feel; with 4.5” wide tires (or 4” for the Small frame size), the Ranger felt incredibly stable and planted. Their inclusion compensated somewhat for the lack of a rear suspension; with a lower PSI, the tires had more cushion and grip on loose ground. While I had no issues, be warned: the risk of a flat tire increases as PSI decreases.

Its performance in our series of standardized tests was unexpected but admirable. Our Speed and Range Tests showed that it can cover a practical amount of ground quickly, while our Hill Test indicated that it can climb confidently. Our Brake Test proved that it has effective stopping capability. And finally, our Ride Quality evaluation proved it to be solid, stable, and both comfortable and easy to use.

While we have a few points of critique including the all-or-nothing power of its pedal assist system and the limited responsiveness of its torque sensor, we were able to overlook these aspects of the ride when the bike was in its intended environment.

The Ranger certainly has the ability to function as a commuter or errand runner, but it stood out as an off-road powerhouse first. We think it has great potential for use as a wilderness explorer, and when outfitted with some of QuietKat’s optional accessories, we feel it would be a great addition to your collection of hunting or camping gear.

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions or if you think we left anything out in this review of the QuietKat Ranger down in our comments section.