Buzz Drone Review | Will It “Bee” Worth Your Buy?

Using the process described in the graphic above, the Buzz Drone gave us a Range Test result of 20.7 miles over an hour and 15 minutes. Both of these numbers exceeded our expectations based on the bike’s specs; we anticipated it to travel roughly 16.5 miles over exactly one hour.

In comparison to similar moped-style e-bikes we tested previously, the Drone’s results were somewhat low, but this was not unexpected as its 500-watt-hour (Wh) battery is also relatively small for a bike of this style.

Additionally, the pool of data we have for comparison is relatively small, as we only recently switched to using the throttle-only method for moped-style e-bikes. The Drone’s ranking may change as we test additional bikes in this category.

Ultimately, the Drone’s test performance was not far behind; roughly 7.5 miles behind the moped category average, but there was less than 5 miles of difference between it and a handful of its competitors. As such, we feel it did well in terms of its specs.

We noticed that the bike’s charge indicator was one area with room for improvement during this test. The Drone uses a combination bar/percentage-based battery readout, which we appreciate, but we found its percentage to be fairly inconsistent and unreliable. We encourage Buzz to use a more accurate readout in the future.

Otherwise, a range of 20-21 miles should cover most leisure rides, commutes, or errand runs—especially if an outlet is accessible for recharging. Those who need additional mileage might consider taking advantage of Buzz’s offer of 25% off the cost of an extra battery with a bike purchase. This could double the Drone’s range for a nominal upcharge.

As shown in the graphic above, the Drone completed our Hill Test at Hell Hole Trail successfully in both tests, proving that it is a capable climber. As is common for e-bike with rear-hub motors, the bike’s pedal test results were slightly faster than its throttle results, as the motor was helped by our tester’s pedal effort.

The Drone’s results are somewhat below average when compared to other moped-style e-bikes we’ve tested, but only by a maximum of 10 seconds in the pedal portion of the test. We feel that this is ultimately a good result, as the vast majority of its competitors were specced with 750W or 1,000W motors.

As mentioned in this review’s introduction, there is more to the story than nominal wattage; peak motor output (dictated by the controller) and torque are contributing factors to climbing ability. The bike’s weight, tires, and riding position also influence Hill Test results.

With a nominal output of 500 watts, an unknown peak wattage, and 65 Newton meters (Nm) of torque, the Drone’s motor does not appear to be remarkably powerful when compared to its peers. This is reinforced by the bike’s relatively gradual acceleration, as explained previously in our Speed Test.

At 68.5 lbs, the Drone’s lighter-than-average (for its category) weight gave it an advantage, helping to make up some of the difference in power when compared to similar e-bikes.

Broadly speaking, we were pleased with the bike’s climbing ability. At our secondary test location, called Pilot Hill, the Drone proved effective once again. Again, it wasn’t the fastest bike we tested, but it did not struggle to finish any of our tests.

Realistically, the Buzz Drone should be able to handle even some extreme hills under practical use. Anything less difficult should not pose a problem.

Using the process above, we tested the Buzz Drone’s mechanical disc brake system and determined that its average stopping distance was a respectable 20’5”. This result is roughly in line with the moped category average of 20’3”.

Based on its specs, we expected the Drone to have a longer, slower average stopping distance. This is because many similar e-bikes we tested used hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors, which are more powerful and better at dispersing heat than Buzz’s mechanical brakes with smaller 160mm rotors.

Again, the Drone’s advantage was its lower-than-average weight, which did not require the sheer stopping power required to slow and stop heavier moped-style bikes. Many bikes in this category range in weight from 80-100 lbs (sometimes even more), so the Drone’s 68.5 lbs was easier to stop in comparison.

Considering that hydraulic disc brakes are now fairly standard on e-bikes that exceed $1,000, we wouldn’t mind seeing Buzz spec the Drone with hydraulic brakes in the future, but ultimately, its mechanical brakes are effective for its size, weight, and maximum speed of 20 mph.

Ride Quality is not measurable in the same way that our other tests are, and much of it comes down to personal preference. Many factors affect how the Buzz Drone feels to ride, but we can examine it broadly to evaluate its effectiveness. Some of the primary factors are sizing and fit, comfort, handling, motor engagement, and the bike’s user interface.

Buzz Bicycles does not advertise a specific height range for the Drone but instead says that it will fit “most riders.” Moped-style e-bikes accommodate their riders differently than most other types of e-bikes since they do not require pedaling, so this makes sense. As long as you can sit comfortably and reach the handlebars, the Drone should work for you.

At 5’11”, I found the bike generally comfortable; its size and geometry felt much like I expected based on previous testing of similar models. My legs assumed a somewhat crouched position while my upper body was upright. With a long reach, my arms were fully extended, but the bike’s handlebars could be angled to adjust this to a limited degree.

With its relatively low weight and 20×4” Kenda tires, the bike handled quickly and felt stable when riding and cornering. Its suspension fork, while somewhat limited in its travel, offered enough cushion to soften bumps, and when tire pressure is reduced, the tires themselves can serve as a sort of suspension.

Motor engagement was another area in which we felt the Drone could be improved. The bike uses Throttle-After-Pedal (TAP), meaning that its throttle cannot engage unless the bike is moving. We feel that Throttle-On-Demand (TOD), which would allow starting from a complete stop, would be a better fit with the Drone’s style and feel.

It largely comes down to personal preference, but we also generally prefer twist throttles to thumb throttles—especially on longer rides—as they are easier and more comfortable to hold for extended periods of time. The Drone’s thumb throttle was functional, but we would like at least the option to switch to a twist throttle at purchase.

The Drone’s user interface was simple and easy to use. Its control panel included rubberized raised buttons that I found effective. The bike has a basic but functional black-and-white display with the current assist setting, battery charge, speedometer, etc. With a single-speed drivetrain instead of a 6-speed, the Drone would be even easier to use.

Overall, the Drone’s ride quality was decent; the bike was fun, reasonably comfortable, and not overcomplicated. As with most bikes, it has room for improvement, but the existing features generally functioned well.

At its heart, the Buzz Drone is an affordable, approachable, and enjoyable e-bike to zip around on. It has enough power to make the ride fun and allow it to tackle steep hills effectively. It’s also not so powerful that it’s scary or likely to get out of control.

For some riders—or the parents of some riders—this might be the perfect balance of cool, wallet-friendly, and safe.

The Drone generally proved effective in our testing, and while its results were largely average or slightly below average in comparison to its peers, much of that can be explained by the bike’s fairly reserved (but still capable) motor and relatively small (but still practical) battery.

We identified a few key areas for improvement during our testing, including the bike’s throttle, battery charge readout, and drivetrain. Throttle-On-Demand would likely fit the bike’s theme better, while a more reliable battery readout would improve user-friendliness. The change to a single-speed drivetrain could reduce cost without affecting functionality.

The Buzz Drone is likely to be a good choice for parents seeking a controlled e-bike with a fun factor that teens can find appealing. With its step-thru frame, it’s also suitable for anyone who wants an accessible and less aggressive moped-style bike. And, of course, with a reasonable price tag, it’s a great way to get a sweet ride without breaking the bank.

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 Buzz Drone.