Super73 Model Comparison: Which Is Right for You?
If you’re shopping for a Super73, the right model depends on one thing: where you ride. The lineup spans four distinct bikes—Z series, S2, R, and RX—and each trades off motor output, battery size, suspension, weight, and price differently. This guide breaks down what each delivers, where it falls short, and which one matches your regular riding conditions.
Quick answer
Best value for casual street riding: Super73-Z or ZG – lower price, lighter weight, adequate range for short trips on flat pavement.
Best all-around commuter: Super73-S2 – balanced motor, suspension, and battery at a mid-tier price, with a step-through option for easier mounting.
Best for speed and on-road performance: Super73-R – 31 mph top speed in unlocked mode, sporty geometry, but no rear suspension.
Best for off-road and rough terrain: Super73-RX – full front and rear suspension (Fox air shock), knobby tires, larger battery.
Your decision also depends on class regulations. Super73 bikes ship as Class 2 (20 mph throttle) but can be unlocked to Class 3 (28 mph) or higher via the app. Local laws may restrict maximum speed, so verify before buying. If you ride mostly pavement and want the lightest option, the Z series is the clear pick. If you tackle dirt or bumpy trails, the RX’s rear suspension is worth the extra weight.
Before making a final decision, test ride different models if possible. Even a short ride reveals key differences: the Z series’ cadence-sensor lag, the S2’s torque-sensor smoothness, or the RX’s suspension plushness.
Comparison framework
Below are the key specifications across the current Super73 models. All figures come from published manufacturer specs; actual range and speed vary with rider weight, terrain, and assist level.
| Model | Motor (peak) | Battery (Wh) | Top speed | Range (claimed) | Suspension | Weight | Drive system | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Super73-Z / ZG | 500W (1000W) | 408Wh (ZG: 475Wh) | 20 mph (Class 2); 25 mph (unlocked ZG) | 15–30 mi | Front only | ~55 lb | Cadence sensor | $1,495–$1,795 |
| Super73-S2 | 750W (2000W) | 960Wh | 20/28/31 mph (selectable) | 31–75 mi | Front only | ~83 lb | Torque sensor | $2,995 |
| Super73-R | 750W (2000W) | 960Wh | 20/28/31 mph (selectable) | 31–75 mi | Front only | ~78 lb | Torque sensor | $3,295 |
| Super73-RX | 750W (2000W) | 960Wh | 20/28/31 mph (selectable) | 40–75 mi | Front + rear (Fox air shock) | ~93 lb | Torque sensor | $3,795 |
Key trade-offs to note:
- The Z series uses a cadence sensor (on/off pedal assist) instead of a torque sensor. That means the motor engages with a noticeable lag, making the ride feel less natural compared to the S2, R, and RX, which respond more smoothly to pedal pressure. This matters most in stop-and-go city riding where you feather the pedals.
- Battery capacity on the Z series (408–475 Wh) is roughly half that of the larger models, meaning shorter real-world range. In throttle-only mode, expect about 12–15 miles before the pack needs a full recharge.
- The RX gains a full suspension system (5 inches of travel front and rear) that soaks up roots and potholes but adds 15 lb over the R. The weight difference is noticeable when lifting the bike into a truck bed or carrying it up stairs.
- The S2 and R share the same motor, battery, and drive system. The R has a more aggressive, stretched riding position and slightly lower weight, while the S2 offers a step-through frame option and upright posture for easier mounting.
Best-fit picks by use case
Street commuting and campus cruising – Super73-Z or ZG
The Z series is the lightest and most affordable Super73. With a 500W nominal motor and a top speed of 25 mph when unlocked (ZG model), it handles flat pavement and short hills comfortably. The smaller battery (408–475 Wh) limits real-world range to about 12–15 miles on throttle and perhaps 20–25 miles on the lowest pedal-assist setting, so plan for a recharge mid-day if your round trip exceeds that.
When to choose it: You want a Super73 on a budget, your rides are mostly under 10 miles one way, and you don’t need rear suspension or high off-road capability. Its lighter weight (55 lb) makes it easier to hoist onto a bike rack or carry up stairs. The ZG’s 475 Wh battery is worth the upgrade over the base Z if you can stretch the budget.
When to skip it: You frequently ride steep hills, need more than 20 miles without charging, or want the top speed of the larger models. The Z’s smaller tires (20×4 vs. 20×4.5 on the R/RX) feel less planted at higher speeds, and the cadence-sensor pedal assist can be jerky at low speeds in traffic.
Practical implication: If you’re buying for a short commute or campus loops under 8 miles each way, the Z series works fine. For longer rides or any hilly terrain, the extra battery capacity and torque sensor of the S2 become worth the price jump.
Balanced daily rider – Super73-S2
The S2 hits a sweet spot between price and features. It shares the same 750W motor and 960 Wh battery as the R and RX, delivering a top speed of 31 mph in unlocked mode and a range of 31–75 miles depending on assist level. The front suspension and fat tires absorb road chatter, while the step-through frame (optional) makes mounting easy for commuters with bags or cargo. The torque sensor provides smooth, natural-feeling pedal assist that responds instantly to your pedaling force.
When to choose it: You want a do-everything e-bike for pavement, bike paths, and light gravel. The upright seating is comfortable for slower traffic. A typical commuter can ride 10–12 miles each way on medium assist without draining the pack. The 960 Wh battery is roughly double the Z series, giving you a full day of mixed riding without range anxiety.
When to skip it: If you tackle serious singletrack or need rear suspension, the S2 will beat you up on roots and drops. It’s also heavy (83 lb) and not ideal for carrying up flights of stairs. The front fork is basic (no air spring or adjustable damping), so it bottoms out on bigger hits.
Verification step: Before buying, check the bike’s class mode in the Super73 app or display. S2 units ship in Class 2 mode. Confirm your local laws allow Class 3 (28 mph pedal assist) before unlocking it. You can verify the current mode by pressing the “M” button on the display: it shows the current speed limit setting.
Speed-focused street rider – Super73-R
The R is essentially an S2 with a lower, more aggressive frame and sportier cockpit. Same motor, battery, and torque sensor, but a stance that pushes you forward to improve aerodynamics and cornering at higher speeds. At 78 lb, it is the lightest of the 2000W-peak models, which sharpens acceleration feel and makes it slightly easier to handle in tight urban spaces.
When to choose it: You primarily ride smooth pavement and want the fastest possible Super73 in a leaner package. The R’s geometry is better suited for carving corners at 28+ mph. The lower center of gravity improves stability during high-speed turns.
When to skip it: The lack of rear suspension means you’ll feel every bump, and the aggressive riding position can become tiring on longer cruiser-style rides. If you plan to hit dirt paths or rough pavement often, look at the RX. The R’s front fork is the same basic unit as the S2, so it doesn’t offer adjustment for rider weight or terrain.
Mismatch to watch for: If you’re over 200 lb, the R’s standard fork may bottom out on moderate bumps. The RX’s adjustable air fork and rear shock better accommodate heavier riders. Test ride the R on your local streets before committing.
Off-road and adventure – Super73-RX
The RX adds a Fox air shock in the rear and an adjustable front fork, giving you 5 inches of suspension travel front and rear. It comes with knobby tires and the same 960 Wh battery as the S2 and R. The extra 15 lb over the R is the price you pay for plush ride quality on rough terrain. The adjustable suspension lets you tune sag and rebound for your weight and riding style.
When to choose it: You ride on gravel, dirt, or bumpy park trails. The suspension keeps the rear wheel tracking over rocks and roots, and the taller handlebars give a more upright, controlled position for technical sections. The rear shock helps maintain tire contact during steep descents, which improves braking traction on loose surfaces.
When to skip it: If you never leave pavement, the RX’s suspension is overkill and its weight (93 lb) becomes a penalty when carrying or maneuvering. The S2 or R will feel nimbler on asphalt. The knobby tires also hum louder on pavement and wear faster.
Practical implication: The RX is the only Super73 that can handle moderate singletrack without rattling your fillings. For anyone mixing fire roads, dirt paths, and paved connectors, it’s the safe choice. For pure street, the weight and tire noise aren’t worth it.
Trade-offs to know
Battery and range reality
All models use lithium-ion packs, but real range depends heavily on how you ride. Throttle-only at full speed cuts claimed range by roughly half. For example, the S2’s 75-mile estimate assumes low assist on flat ground; hammering the throttle at 28 mph may yield 25–30 miles. The Z series’ smaller pack is especially sensitive: expect 10–14 miles at full throttle. If your commute in cold weather (below 50°F) is longer than 8 miles, the Z series’ range may drop another 20% due to lithium-ion chemistry performance loss in low temperatures.
Weight and portability
The Z series weighs about 55 lb—manageable for lifting onto a bike rack. The S2, R, and RX all tip past 78 lb. The RX at 93 lb is a chore to carry up stairs or lift into a truck bed. If you park in a basement or need to lift the bike daily, the Z is the only practical choice. For comparison, a typical commuter e-bike without a fat-tire chassis weighs around 55–65 lb; the RX is closer to a light motorcycle.
Speed and legality
Super73 ships bikes in Class 2 mode (20 mph throttle only) and Class 3 mode (28 mph pedal assist). The R and RX can be unlocked via the app to reach 31 mph on throttle, but that may push the bike into “motor vehicle” territory in some states. Check your local e-bike class laws. The ZG tops out at 25 mph when unlocked, keeping it in Class 2 territory in most states. If you unlock the higher speed modes, you may also lose coverage under bicycle-specific liability insurance policies—verify with your insurer.
Drive system feel
The Z series uses a cadence sensor: the motor kicks in only after the pedals rotate a full revolution, creating a lurchy start. The S2, R, and RX use a torque sensor that measures how hard you push the pedals, giving proportional assistance that feels like a natural extension of your leg power. If you’ve only ever ridden cadence-sensor bikes, try a torque-sensor model before buying—the difference is immediate and affects comfort in traffic.
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Ryan Williams has spent over 8 years testing, repairing, and writing about electric bikes. He has personally ridden and reviewed 150+ e-bike models from brands like Lectric, Aventon, Rad Power, Super73, and dozens more.
Before founding EBIKE Delight, Ryan worked as a bicycle mechanic for 5 years at independent bike shops across California, where he specialized in e-bike conversions and electrical system diagnostics. He holds a Certificate in Electric Vehicle Technology from the Light Electric Vehicle Association (LEVA).
Ryan’s work has been cited by Electric Bike Report, Electrek, and BikeRumor. When he is not testing the latest e-bike on California backroads, he is in his workshop tearing down batteries and controllers to understand what makes them tick — and what makes them fail.
Areas of Expertise
E-bike performance testing and real-world range verificationBattery diagnostics, charging best practices, and safetyBrand comparisons: Lectric, Aventon, Rad Power, Super73, and moreError code troubleshooting across major e-bike systemsE-bike laws, registration, and compliance by state
Ryan believes every rider deserves honest, hands-on information — not marketing hype.