Totem Victor & Totem 26″ Electric Bike — Full Review
The Totem Victor and Totem 26″ electric bikes position themselves as versatile, all-around e-bikes for commuters, casual riders, and entry-level trail riders who want a balance of power, range, and everyday usability. Out of the box these models advertise a 750W peak brushless motor (often paired with a 350W nominal rating in marketing) and a 374–375Wh removable battery that Totem claims will deliver up to 25–40 miles per charge depending on riding mode and conditions. On paper, the spec sheet ticks many of the boxes most buyers look for: a mid-sized 26″ wheel platform that suits a wide range of riders, a 21-speed drivetrain for climbing and cadence control, front suspension to tame rougher surfaces, and an LCD display that keeps speed, battery level, and assist level visible at a glance. In this review I tested the bike across commuting runs and mixed-surface rides to evaluate how the Totem measures up in real-world use.
Performance is one of the most important parts of any e-bike review, and the Totem’s electric assist is pleasantly punchy for its class. The 750W peak motor provides brisk acceleration from a standing start and makes short climbs feel much less strenuous — you can hold 15–18 mph on moderate grades with throttle or pedal assist (the model offers walk, pedal-assist, and regular bicycle modes). Top speed is limited to around 20 mph as advertised, which matches typical Class 2 e-bike behavior in the U.S. The pedal-assist system is intuitive: assist levels scale predictably, and the motor cuts in smoothly rather than abruptly. For heavier riders or very steep hills you’ll still need to use the 21-speed gearing actively, but having that motor support means longer rides and more confident climbs without pushing your heart rate into maximal zones. On short bursts the bike feels lively; on sustained, hilly rides the motor’s peak output and the 21-speed gearing combine to keep cadence comfortable and assistance consistent.
Battery life and range are practical concerns, and the Totem’s 374.4–375Wh removable battery performs in line with expectations. Totem claims 25–40 miles per charge, which is an accurate window if you account for rider weight, terrain, assist level, and how often you stop/start. In a mixed test that included city commuting with light hills and periodic higher-assist sections, I averaged roughly 28–32 miles per charge using moderate pedal-assist. If you plan to use the highest assist setting constantly or tackle sustained climbs, expect the lower end of that range. The battery is removable, a welcome feature that makes charging convenient at work or home and reduces the need to bring the entire bike indoors. Charging time is listed at 4–5 hours, which fits typical daily-use patterns for commuters. One practical tip: bring a charger to work or invest in a second battery if you plan multi-day excursions or heavy-duty recreational riding without access to charging.
Ride quality and component selection are where Totem balances affordability with usability. The front suspension fork soaks up bumps and rough pavement effectively for city and light trail use — it’s not a long-travel fork for aggressive mountain biking, but it dramatically improves comfort over rigid forks and keeps traction on uneven surfaces. The 21-speed Shimano-compatible drivetrain gives a familiar gear spread that most cyclists will appreciate; shifting is generally smooth, though very aggressive downshifts under heavy loads can feel slightly hesitant until the chain settles. Braking is handled by front and rear mechanical disc brakes. They provide robust stopping power for urban and trail scenarios and are easier to maintain than hydraulic systems, though they lack the modulation and feel of higher-end hydraulic discs. Cable routing is neatly integrated into the frame, which looks cleaner and reduces snag points. The adjustable stem is a thoughtful inclusion for riders who want to dial in cockpit fit for comfort or a slightly sportier position.
The Totem’s LCD display and ride modes are simple but effective. The screen shows speed, battery level, and pedal-assist level clearly; it’s easy to change assist modes on the fly and read the battery percentage at a glance. The three ride modes — Walk Mode, Pedal-Assist Mode, and Regular Bicycle Mode — cover nearly every use case for a general-purpose e-bike. Walk Mode helps when you’re pushing the bike uphill or through crowded areas, Pedal-Assist lets you tailor the workout and range trade-off, and Regular Bicycle Mode allows you to ride without motor assistance to conserve battery or get pure exercise. For commuters who want to extend range, combining lower assist levels with efficient pedaling will reliably push you into that upper range territory. The display and controls are not overloaded with features, which keeps the learning curve minimal and reduces the chance of accidental mode changes mid-ride.
No review is complete without an honest look at limitations and overall value. The Totem offers strong value for riders seeking a versatile e-bike without breaking the bank, but it isn’t perfect. The main trade-offs are component-level: mechanical disc brakes instead of hydraulic, a front fork suited for light trails rather than aggressive downhill use, and an overall build that favors durability and cost-effectiveness over premium finishing touches. Assembly from the box is straightforward for anyone familiar with bikes — basic front wheel, handlebar, and seatpost installation — though less experienced buyers may prefer professional assembly from a local shop. Weight is typical of hub-motor e-bikes in this segment, so maneuvering off-bike requires some care; however the removable battery reduces the hassle of bringing the battery inside for charging. For commuters, casual weekend riders, and families seeking a single bike that can do errands, light trail play, and longer assisted rides, the Totem hits a sweet spot. If you need class-leading components, aggressive trail capability, or the absolute longest possible range, you’ll want to look one tier up. But for most people seeking an affordable, dependable, and user-friendly e-bike, the Totem Victor and Totem 26″ models are strong contenders.
Verdict: Totem has built a practical, capable electric bike that delivers strong motor support, a useful removable battery, and a ride that balances comfort and efficiency. It’s especially appealing for commuters and recreational riders who want predictable pedal-assist, a manageable charging routine, and straightforward controls. Expect a lively, confidence-inspiring ride at a reasonable price, with the usual compromises at the component level that come with that affordability. If your priority is a true do-it-all bike for city streets, bike paths, and the occasional gravel or forest track, the Totem Victor and Totem 26″ deliver a compelling package. Consider optional upgrades or professional tuning if you plan to push the bike into more demanding mountain-bike territory or if you want to improve braking and suspension performance down the line.
