Butchers & Bicycles MK1-E

79/100
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Facts

Gender
Release Year
Charge Time
4 Hours
Maximum Range
50 Miles
Top Speed
20 mph
Watts
250 W
Torque
85 Nm
Volts and Amp Hours
36V 13.4Ah
Class
Drive
Wheel Size
Weight
110 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Butchers & Bicycles MK1-E. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

14 reasons to buy

  • The Butchers & Bicycles MK1-E e-trike comes in three builds: Vario, Automatic, and Business. The Business has a fully enclosed and lockable box.
  • The MK1-E's payload capacity is 551lb, the cargo box's capacity is 220lb, and the bike's maximum rider weight is 220lb.
  • Experts praise the Performance Line CX motor's high torque (85Nm) and powerful assistance.
  • The Tektro Auriga Twin hydraulic brakes prove effective in testing.
  • The MK1-E's handlebars are height-adjustable and can be set between 41.3" and 43".
  • A tester says the front suspension effectively smooths out bumps.
  • The trike includes a parking brake and a pedal-operated stand beneath the cargo box to stop it from tipping forward.
  • In a range test on mostly flat urban roads, a tester of the MK1-E Automatic covers 33 miles.
  • The MK1-E is compatible with a second battery (482Wh) that mounts on the underside of the top tube.
  • Experts say the MK1-E and its accessories feel high quality.
  • The cargo box can comfortably accommodate two children, though buyers must purchase the child seat or cushion set accessory.
  • A "practical" transparent front door for passengers can be added to the Vario and Automatic builds.
  • All MK1-E builds include fenders, lights, a bell, and a USB port for charging devices.
  • The cargo box has an ISOFIX interface for securing a child's seat. This is an internationally standardized child seat fitting system used in cars.

6 reasons not to buy

  • Testers say, due to the tilting design of the front wheels, that getting used to the trike's handling is a challenge and requires a lot of practice.
  • An expert bemoans the wide turning radius.
  • This trike is wider than average at 35.8", and barely fits through standard 36" doorways.
  • A reviewer notes that the position of the headlights between the wheels and the box makes them ineffective.
  • The minimum seat height of 33" may not suit riders at the low end of the 5' to 6'7" height range.
  • Weighing over 110lb without extras, the MK1-E is heavy.

Bottom line

The Butchers & Bicycles MK1-E is a cargo e-trike available in three builds, each with an 85Nm Bosch motor, enviolo Heavy Duty hub, and Gates Carbon belt drive. The MK1-E Automatic has enviolo's AutomatiQ shifting. Reviews of the latest version (2021) are limited, but the trike's torque, range, braking, passenger accessories, and overall build quality impress. However, getting used to the "Built-to-Tilt" design of the front wheels is challenging and time-consuming, which frustrates reviewers. Other complaints are minor. Overall, testers consider the MK1-E a practical car alternative for businesses or families, but potential buyers must be prepared to devote time to learn to ride it safely.

Expert Reviews

79/100 based on 2 rated expert reviews

Butchers & Bicycles MK1-E Automatic [German]

The MK1-E from Butchers & Bicycles is the most expensive in the test group, but it is also very high-quality and equipped with tilting technology. However, it doesn’t handle turns as well as the Chike [cargo trike].

Visit full review

Butchers & Bicycles MK1-E3 Family [German]

High quality and many good features, but it requires skill and practice to master. Once you do, you’ll enjoy a positive riding experience with an e-bike that leans into the turns.

Visit full review

User Ratings

0/100 based on 0 ratings
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Rankings

Compared to other bikes
#41 Best Cargo
Bottom 20%
#12 Best Tricycle
Bottom 50%
#632 Best of All Bikes
Bottom 30%

Bike Comparison

Butchers & Bicycles MK1-E in comparison to averages