Product · HX
HX Q5 Shark: Bafang hub, torque sensor, 95 Nm
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Most e-bikes at this level use a cadence sensor, which switches the motor on when the cranks turn. The HX Q5 Shark instead pairs its hub motor with a torque sensor, so the help grows with the pressure on the pedals. That makes it a candidate for riders who want a more natural feel on hills and trails without moving up to a premium brand.
- Motor
- 250 W Bafang hub, torque sensor
- Battery
- 13 Ah removable
- Brakes
- 160 mm hydraulic disc
- Gears
- 7-speed
- Weight
- 29 kg
In its favour
- A torque sensor sets assistance by how hard you pedal, with 95 Nm quoted from the Bafang motor.
- 160 mm hydraulic disc brakes and CHAOYANG puncture-resistant 27.5 x 2.25 inch tyres.
- IPX6 water rating, EVE 18650 cells and a 2,000 lumen headlight are listed.
Good to know
- Battery voltage and watt hours are not stated clearly; only 13 Ah is given for the battery.
- The fork is described as segmented adjustable ABS, a basic design for trail use.
Our take
Motor and sensor
HX describes a 48 V brushless planetary gear hub motor developed with BAFANG, rated at 250 W with 95 Nm quoted. The planetary gearing is said to be quiet and maintenance-free. Assistance tops out at 25 km/h, in line with UK rules.
The torque sensor is described as responding within milliseconds. In practice that should mean gentler starts at junctions and more help when you push hard on a climb, with less of the on-off surge some cadence systems give.
Battery and range claims
The removable battery is rated at 13Ah and uses EVE 18650 cells, with over 2,000 charge cycles claimed. The listing does not give a clear watt hour figure. HX quotes 50 to 60 km with pedal assist and 40 to 50 km in pure electric mode, and a 2A charger that takes 6 to 7 hours.
The pure electric mode is worth understanding before you ride on UK roads, where throttle-only riding is restricted.
Frame, brakes and extras
The aluminium frame has a welded one-piece design and a stated maximum load of 150 kg. Brakes are 160 mm hydraulic discs, and tyres are 27.5 by 2.25 inch CHAOYANG puncture-resistant units.
There is a 2,000 lumen lens headlight with a cut-off to avoid dazzling others, plus RGB frame lights. The fork is an adjustable ABS design, which is better suited to towpaths and forest tracks than rough downhill trails. Weight is listed at 29 kg, and the minimum rider height is 168 cm.
Compared with nearby picks
The Carpat GB1 offers Shimano hydraulic brakes and EN 15194 certification but uses a smaller 374.4 Wh battery and does not list a torque sensor. The SAMEBIKE XD26-II gives a stated 672 Wh and bigger 180 mm rotors, but its sensor type is not named.
Verdict
The Q5 Shark suits riders of 168 cm and up who want torque-sensing assistance and hydraulic brakes on a 27.5 inch hardtail. If you value certification and named Shimano parts, the Carpat GB1 is the alternative, and if range matters more than feel, consider the SAMEBIKE XD26-II.
Compared with alternatives in: Best electric bikes under £2000
Amazon listing title: HX Q5 Shark Electric Mountain Bike Adult,27.5'' E bike,100KM