Riding Times Z8 Review Canada (2026): Z8 vs Z8 Pro Range, Measured Fit and the 25 km/h Setting

A Playcut rendering of the Riding Times Z8 in black on a maple-lined street in Victoria, British Columbia, with Zeus standing behind it

The Z8 on a street in Victoria's Fernwood neighbourhood: a Playcut.ai rendering made from Riding'times' own photograph of the bike.

60 / 117 kmZ8 / Z8 Pro at the shipped 25 km/h on the throttle, 82 kg (180 lb) rider, flat, 25 °C (modelled)
500 WRiding'times Canada's rating; 1,500 W peak on its page
38 of 100Riders at 5′8″ who can put both feet flat on the seat (RedTail's count)
$1,199CAD at Zeus for the Z8; $1,599 for the Z8 Pro

We sell this bike. Zeus lists the Riding Times Z8 at $1,199 and the Z8 Pro at $1,599. Our US sister store, RedTail eBikes, reviewed the US Z8 Pro, which Riding'times rates at 750 W, and this review uses RedTail's measured fit and its range model, with a link at each point of use.

The Z8 is Riding'times' compact moped-style e-bike: a long seat, a round headlight, 20 × 4 inch fat tires, suspension at both ends, a rear-wheel motor and pedals. Our listing sells it two ways, the Z8 with one 48 V 15.6 Ah battery and the Z8 Pro with two. Every Riding'times figure below was read on 31 October 2026, and every range and fit figure is computed, with the method linked.

Quick Answer: Riding Times Z8 review, Canada

The Riding Times Z8 is a moped-style fat-tire e-bike with pedals, sold as the Z8 (one 748.8 Wh battery) and the Z8 Pro (two). Riding'times Canada rates its motor at 500 W, ships it in a 25 km/h speed-limit mode, and prints 50 km/h as its top speed in another setting.

  • Range: modelled for an 82 kg (180 lb) rider on the throttle at the shipped 25 km/h, flat pavement, 25 °C: about 60 km on the Z8 and 117 km on the Z8 Pro. Riding'times prints no battery temperature range, and our model's 0 °C figure for the Z8 at 25 km/h spans 42 to 49 km across published cell data.
  • Fit: Riding'times prints a 4′3″ to 5′11″ rider window. On the fixed seat, RedTail eBikes' measured count puts both feet flat for 12 of 100 riders at 5′6″, 38 at 5′8″ and at least 8 in 10 from 178 cm (5′10″).
  • Certificates and recalls: Riding'times prints no UL certificate and no water rating for the Z8 on its Canadian page, product record, gallery text or manual; no recall at Health Canada or the US CPSC names Riding Times or the Z8 (31 October 2026).
  • Verdict: in our view, a capable budget moped-style e-bike for a rider about 178 cm (5′10″) or taller who rides it as shipped; pick the Z8 Pro if you ride more than about 45 km between charges, the Z8's modelled planning figure at 25 km/h.
  • At Zeus: the Riding Times Z8 is $1,199 and the Z8 Pro $1,599, with free shipping across Canada; the comparison sets it beside three bikes we sell.
How this review was made
  • Riding'times' figures: the Z8 page and product record on Riding'times' Canadian store, its FAQ and warranty pages, read on 31 October 2026 in a headless browser with every panel opened and saved, and the Z8, Z8 Pro and Z8S manual from Riding'times' own manuals page. Its US page was read the same night for the one figure that differs, the motor rating. The printed words in the 59 images on its Z8 page were read by text recognition, with a control.
  • Our US sister store's research: RedTail eBikes published a Z8 Pro review in September; we used its measured fit and its range model, linked at each point of use.
  • Range: RedTail's Riding'times range model, imported unchanged; before it ran, it passed its selftest and reproduced all 21 of RedTail's published Z8 Pro figures. RedTail modelled the US rating of 750 W on two packs; we ran the same model at Riding'times Canada's 500 W, on one pack and on two, in metric, at Canadian speeds and temperatures.
  • Fit: 6,068 measured adults from the ANSUR II survey, placed against the seat as measured on Riding'times' own photograph of the Z8 Pro, by RedTail's fit model. Riding'times prints one geometry and one rider window for both versions.
  • Law: every passage the law table quotes, from the federal regulations and 13 provinces and territories, was found again on 31 October 2026 in the source it links, except where the site refused our browser: SAAQ's FAQ (copy read 28 October), Québec's Ministerial Order and Nunavut's Act (26 October).
  • Safety records: Health Canada's recall search and the US CPSC recall database, run on 31 October 2026 under every spelling of the brand, its company name and the model, each beside a control search that had to return results and a test term that had to convict a real record.
▶ Our own Z8 review

Our own Z8 video, filmed for our channel in February 2026. Some of what it says has changed or is not in Riding'times' current pages: the prices are now $1,199 and $1,599; Riding'times Canada rates the motor at 500 W, where the video says 750 W; its warranty page reads 2 years on bikes bought from its site, with the battery at 1 year prorated, where the video says 1 year; and its Canadian page and manual print no 7-speed gearing or water rating, and describe an LCD display without a colour. The range, charging and seat figures in this review are the ones read on 31 October 2026.

▶ A rider's ride review

An independent rider in Georgia, in the United States, unboxes, builds and rides the Z8 Pro for 54 minutes (Random Adventures, 23 February 2025); his video description links a store. He rides faster than the Z8's Canadian 25 km/h setting, calls it "totally worth the budget price", and finds it not a strong hill climber at his weight of about 100 kg (220 lb).


Who is the Riding Times Z8 for?

Riding'times' Canadian page sells the Z8 under a "Legal Across Canada" badge, with a 25 km/h factory mode and a 50 km/h top speed in another setting. Buy on the badge and you can end up with a seat your feet do not reach at a light, or a setting your province does not treat as an e-bike. This review measures the fit, reads every provincial rule on that setting and computes the range of each battery for Canadian weather.

The Z8 suits a rider who wants the moped look and a throttle at a budget price: a long black seat, a round headlight, fat tires and suspension at both ends. The single-battery Z8 covers about 60 km at the shipped 25 km/h in our model, enough for most city days; the Z8 Pro's second pack takes that to about 117 km.

It suits shorter riders less than Riding'times' 4′3″ to 5′11″ window suggests. On RedTail eBikes' count, no surveyed rider at 5′3″ or under can put both feet flat on its seat, fewer than 1 in 100 at 5′4″ can, and 12 of 100 at 5′6″ can, so most riders under 5′8″ stop on one foot with the bike leaned toward it. Our electric moped guide sets out the wider field.

Takeaway: buy the Z8 for the look, the throttle and the price if you stand about 178 cm (5′10″) or taller, or are at ease with a one-foot stop; ride it as shipped at 25 km/h.

Want the moped look on a budget?

The Riding Times Z8 is $1,199 at Zeus and the Z8 Pro $1,599, with free shipping across Canada. Not sure about the fit? Call us with your height and inseam.

See the Riding Times Z8, $1,199Call 1-866-938-7580

What are the Riding Times Z8's specifications?

Riding'times Canada prints a rear gear hub motor rated at 500 W with 1,500 W peak and 80 N·m, one or two removable 48 V 15.6 Ah batteries, 20 × 4 inch tires, mechanical disc brakes front and rear, and a factory 25 km/h mode. The table quotes its wording, read on 31 October 2026, with what each line means.

Item Riding'times Canada prints (31 October 2026) What that means
Motor "Rear Gear Hub Motor 500W(Peak 1500W, Torque 80Nm)" The provincial rules read the 500 W rating; Riding'times' US page rates the same motor at 750 W
Speed "15 MPH/25 KM/H" speed limit mode; "32 MPH/50 KM/H" top speed; "31 mph" in its table Ships at 25 km/h; the faster setting is the owner's change
Battery "Single Battery - 48V 15.6Ah" (Z8); "Dual Battery - 48V 15.6Ah x2" (Z8 Pro) 748.8 Wh or 1,497.6 Wh; each pack comes off to charge
Range Z8: 25 to 50 miles on the throttle, 50 to 60 with pedal assist; Z8 Pro: 50 to 75 and 100 to 120 No speed or weight given; see the range section
Weight and load "79(89) lbs" (Z8), "91(112) lbs" (Z8 Pro); "330 lbs" maximum load About 40 kg and 51 kg with the batteries; the manual prints a 120 kg load
Geometry 41.3 in wheelbase; "130-180cm" recommended height; no seat height printed A fixed seat; see the fit section
Brakes "Front and rear mechanical disc brake + electronic brake" The manual: the system "cuts off power to the motor whenever the brakes are squeezed"
Suspension "Front Fork & Rear Double Spring Suspensions" (Z8); "Advanced Suspension with Rear Hydraulic Shock" (Z8 Pro) The second pack is not the only difference
Charger and charge time "48V 2A x1" (Z8), "48V 2A x2" (Z8 Pro); "7-9H" Overnight; the manual lists a 54.6 V 2 A charger, which reads as the same charger described by its output voltage
Class "Multi-class 1-3 with Speed Limit Setting" "Class" is a United States category; Canadian rules read watts and speed

Source: Riding'times' Canadian Z8 page, read 31 October 2026; its Z8 manual is linked under Sources.

Riding Times Z8 moped-style e-bike in black, front three-quarter view: the round headlight, the long seat, the fat tires and the front suspension fork

The Z8 as pictured on our listing. Tap or click to enlarge.

Where Riding'times' own figures differ

Riding'times prints several figures two ways. The top speed is 32 mph on its page's headline and 31 mph in its table; the load is 330 lb (150 kg) on the page and 120 kg in the manual; the rider window is 4′3″ to 5′11″ in one answer and 4′2″ to 5′11″ in another; and its US FAQ calls the Z8's battery a "750Wh removable dual-battery system", while the Canadian page prints 48 V 15.6 Ah per pack (748.8 Wh by our arithmetic), one on the Z8 and two on the Z8 Pro.

The badges disagree with the FAQ too. The page shows "Legal Across Canada", while Riding'times' own FAQ says "a speed-limit setting alone does not guarantee that a bike meets every provincial or municipal requirement". We follow the stricter reading each time: 120 kg for rider, passenger and cargo together, and the law section's province-by-province answer instead of the badge.

Takeaway: the motor, batteries, brakes and tires read the same everywhere Riding'times prints them; where a figure appears twice, plan on the stricter one, 120 kg for everyone and everything aboard.

Z8 or Z8 Pro: what does the second battery change?

The second battery doubles the energy and, in our model, nearly doubles the range: at the shipped 25 km/h, about 60 km for the Z8 and 117 km for the Z8 Pro. The Pro also swaps the double rear springs for a rear hydraulic shock, adds 23 lb with its batteries fitted, and costs $400 more at Zeus.

Z8 Z8 Pro
Battery 48 V 15.6 Ah, 748.8 Wh Two 48 V 15.6 Ah, 1,497.6 Wh
Range at 25 km/h (modelled) 60 km 117 km
Range at 20 km/h (modelled) 76 km 145 km
Riding'times' range, throttle 25 to 50 miles 50 to 75 miles
Rear suspension Double springs Hydraulic shock
Weight with batteries 89 lb (40 kg) 112 lb (51 kg)
Chargers One ("48V 2A x1") Two ("48V 2A x2")
Zeus price $1,199 $1,599

Modelled rows: throttle only, flat pavement, 82 kg (180 lb) rider, 25 °C, no wind, full packs, at Riding'times Canada's 500 W rating. Riding'times' rows: its Canadian Z8 page, read 31 October 2026.

Pick the Z8 if your round trip stays under about 45 km at 25 km/h, the planning figure with a quarter kept back in our model, and you would rather carry less weight. Pick the Z8 Pro for longer days, a heavier rider, or winter, when cold cells give back less of their energy.

Takeaway: the Z8 for city trips under about 45 km, the Z8 Pro for anything longer; both share the motor, the frame, the seat and the 25 km/h factory setting.

How far do the Z8 and Z8 Pro go on one charge?

In our model, an 82 kg (180 lb) rider on the throttle gets about 60 km from the Z8 and 117 km from the Z8 Pro at the shipped 25 km/h, on flat pavement at 25 °C. Keep 25% back, the planning margin RedTail's model uses, and plan on 45 and 88 km.

Every figure here comes from the range model RedTail eBikes built for its Riding'times reviews, imported unchanged; before it ran, it reproduced all 21 of RedTail's published Z8 Pro figures, as set out on RedTail's range-formula section. It computes wheel power from Martin and colleagues' validated cycling model, fat-tire rolling resistance measured on a drum, measured rider drag and cell energy by temperature.

Two things change for the bikes we sell. Riding'times Canada rates the motor at 500 W where RedTail modelled the US 750 W, which in our model moves the Z8 Pro's 25 km/h figure from 124 to 117 km. And the Z8 runs on one pack, which our model gives its own weight and current.

Steady speed Z8, full pack Z8, 25% kept Z8 Pro, full packs Z8 Pro, 25% kept
10 km/h 107 km 80 km 198 km 148 km
15 km/h 93 km 70 km 176 km 132 km
20 km/h 76 km 57 km 145 km 109 km
25 km/h 60 km 45 km 117 km 88 km

Throttle only, flat pavement, 82 kg (180 lb) rider, 25 °C, no wind. The Z8 ships set to 25 km/h; the model does not price the faster setting. The Z8 Pro is modelled as one 31.2 Ah bank, as RedTail did; drawing one pack at a time changes these figures by under 1% in our check.

Pedalling stretches every figure. In the model a steady 75 W from your legs takes the Z8's 25 km/h ride from 60 to about 98 km, and the Z8 Pro's from 117 to about 185 km. The fixed seat leaves the knee bent on every stroke, so plan on the throttle-only figures.

What Riding'times' range figures ask of you

For the Z8, Riding'times prints 25 to 50 miles on the throttle (40 to 80 km) and its manual 48 to 90 km. In our model the 80 km top holds on the throttle only at a steady 18.7 km/h or slower for an 82 kg (180 lb) rider, and the manual's 90 km at 16 km/h.

For the Z8 Pro, the page's headline prints "75 Miles/120 KM" and its table 100 to 120 miles with pedal assist. In our model the 120 km holds on the throttle at 24.3 km/h or slower; the 193 km of 120 miles needs about 75 W of pedalling at up to 24.5 km/h, or the throttle alone at 11.4 km/h.

Rider weight, hills, wind and tires

Rider and cargo Z8 at 20 km/h Z8 at 25 km/h Z8 Pro at 25 km/h
60 kg (132 lb) 85 km 66 km 127 km
82 kg (180 lb) 76 km 60 km 117 km
100 kg (220 lb) 70 km 56 km 109 km
120 kg, the manual's limit 64 km 52 km 101 km
150 kg (330 lb), the page's figure 56 km 47 km 92 km

Throttle only, flat pavement, 25 °C, full packs. The model counts rider and cargo together, as a load limit does.

Grade at 15 km/h (Z8) Throttle only With 75 W of pedalling
2% 22.4 Wh/km, 33 km 11.3 Wh/km, 66 km
4% 43.2 Wh/km, 17 km 27.2 Wh/km, 27 km
6% 72.5 Wh/km, 10 km 49.9 Wh/km, 15 km
8% not held not held
10% not held not held

82 kg (180 lb) rider, 25 °C. The kilometres are what the whole pack would give on that grade throughout. The model holds a steady climb within the motor's 500 W rating: the steepest it holds on the throttle is about 6.1% at 15 km/h and 7.1% at 10 km/h on the Z8, and 5.6% at 15 km/h on the heavier Z8 Pro (7.3% for the Z8 at the US 750 W rating).

Riding'times prints a "Climbing Angle" of 15°, about a 27% grade. The model is stricter because it prices a steady climb within the rated power, while the 1,500 W peak can push harder for short stretches; on a long, steep hill, plan on pedalling, as the 75 W column shows. The rider in the ride review above, at about 100 kg on the US Z8 Pro, slowed from 24 to 16 mph (39 to 26 km/h) up a long hill on pedal assist.

Condition, Z8 at 20 km/h Range
Still air, the fat-tire median (used above) 76 km
A 15 km/h headwind 32 km
A 25 km/h headwind 18 km
The lowest of ten fat tires 95 km
The highest of ten fat tires 68 km

82 kg (180 lb) rider, flat pavement, 25 °C, throttle only, full pack. Tire figures from Bicycle Rolling Resistance's fat-bike drum tests, as RedTail's model uses them.

Takeaway: in our model, keeping 25% in reserve, plan on 45 km on the Z8 and 88 km on the Z8 Pro at the shipped 25 km/h on flat pavement at 25 °C; hills, headwinds and cold take more.

Reviewed here

Riding Times Z8 / Z8 Pro

$1,199 / $1,599 CAD
748.8 Whper pack
500 Wrated hub
25 km/has shipped
20 × 4fat tires

A 500 W moped-style e-bike with one or two 748.8 Wh batteries: about 60 or 117 km at 25 km/h in our model, fat tires and suspension at both ends.

Questions before you order?

Call us with your height, inseam, weight and daily distance, and we will tell you straight whether the Z8 or the Z8 Pro suits it. Free shipping across Canada, and financing is available.

See the Riding Times Z8Call 1-866-938-7580

What do Canadian cold, rain and storage do to the Z8?

Riding'times prints no temperature range for riding or charging the Z8's batteries on its page, its product record, its FAQ, its warranty page, its manual or the printed words in its gallery images; the manual's working temperature of −20 to 60 °C belongs to the display. In our model the Z8's 20 km/h range of 76 km at 25 °C drops to about 64 km at 10 °C and 58 km at 0 °C.

Air temperature Z8 at 20 km/h Z8 Pro at 20 km/h Z8, 25% kept
25 °C 76 km 145 km 57 km
10 °C 64 km 121 km 48 km
0 °C 58 km (spread 52–61) 111 km (spread 99–116) 44 km (spread 39–46)
−10 °C 53 km (spread 26–53) 100 km (spread 49–100) 40 km (spread 20–40)

Throttle only, 82 kg (180 lb) rider, flat pavement, full packs. Cell energy by temperature from the McMaster LG HG2 measurements the model uses; the spread runs across published cell data. Riding'times prints no battery temperature range. Snow and slush are not modelled.

Below freezing the cell sources part ways: at −10 °C our model puts the Z8 anywhere from 26 to 53 km at 20 km/h and the Z8 Pro from 49 to 100 km, too wide a span to plan a winter commute on, and the Pro's second pack is the margin that span calls for. Riding'times' FAQ asks you to keep each battery "indoors in a dry, temperature-controlled location away from direct sunlight, water, open flames and extreme heat or cold".

Riding'times calls the tires "Winter Ready" on its page, and in its FAQ adds that they "do not eliminate the risks of snow, ice, mud or poor traction". Its FAQ also says "Riding’times electric bikes should not be treated as waterproof", its manual says "The bike is not designed for wading.", and its warranty page excludes "Improper storage or exposure to extreme elements (rain, snow, heat)".

Takeaway: in our model, plan on about 48 km on the Z8 at 20 km/h at 10 °C with 25% kept; below freezing the cell data spread too wide to promise a figure, so charge indoors, dry the bike after a wet ride and plan short winter trips. Our winter e-bike guide compares bikes built for snow.

Will the Riding Times Z8 fit you?

On the Z8's fixed seat, RedTail eBikes' measured count puts both feet flat for 12 of 100 riders at 5′6″, 38 at 5′8″, 80 at 5′10″ and 94 at 5′11″, for none of the surveyed riders at 5′3″ or under and fewer than 1 in 100 at 5′4″. Shorter riders stop with one foot down and the bike tipped toward it.

Riding'times prints no seat height. Measured on Riding'times' own photograph of the Z8 Pro, the seat's lowest point sits at about 33.0 inches (83.8 cm), and RedTail's counts use that figure. Riding'times prints one geometry and one rider window for both versions, so we apply the measurement to the Z8 as well; its rear springs could sit the seat slightly differently, and we have not measured that.

Height Both feet flat on the 33.0 inch seat
163 cm (5′4″) fewer than 1 of 100
165 cm (5′5″) 3 of 100
168 cm (5′6″) 12 of 100
170 cm (5′7″) 20 of 100
173 cm (5′8″) 38 of 100
175 cm (5′9″) 57 of 100
178 cm (5′10″) 80 of 100
180 cm (5′11″) 94 of 100
183 cm (6′0″) 96 of 100

Out of 100 adults of each height in the US Army's ANSUR II survey, women and men together, barefoot, from RedTail eBikes' fit model of the Z8 Pro. Boots add their sole.

Pedalling runs the other way. RedTail sets the seat against the saddle height a pedalling formula asks of the median rider: the seat sits 2.6 inches below it at 5′0″ and 10.7 inches below it at 6′2″ (RedTail's saddle table), and suits at most 2 riders in 100 at any height. The Z8 is a throttle-first bike, so the stop matters more than the pedal stroke.

Riding'times' US FAQ gives a "Recommended Age: 10 years and above", and its Canadian page pitches the Z8 to "eligible teen riders". Canadian rules set their own floors: B.C.'s regulation counts a 500 W bike with a throttle as a standard e-bike, which no one under 16 may ride on a highway; Manitoba requires 14, and PEI 16. Our teen e-bike guide covers the rest.

Takeaway: at least 8 in 10 riders can put both feet flat from 178 cm (5′10″); at 5′6″ it is about 1 in 8, so try a one-foot stop on a heavy bike before you buy, whatever the rider window says.

Between this and a lower seat?

Send us your height and inseam. We sell the Z8 and other moped-style bikes, so we will point you to the one the measurements favour.

See every Riding Times we sellCall 1-866-938-7580

Is the Riding Times Z8 street legal in Canada?

As shipped, its printed figures sit on the provincial lines: a motor rated at 500 W and a 25 km/h speed-limit mode, with a throttle and working pedals. Riding'times also prints a 50 km/h top speed, says the bike can be "configured" for its 25 km/h limit, and in its FAQ that "Changing the factory setting may change the bike’s legal classification and where it may be ridden".

Most provincial texts word the speed limit as a capability. B.C.'s motors "must not be capable of propelling the device at a speed exceeding 32 km/h"; Saskatchewan's assistance "cannot be provided" past it; Manitoba's motor "cannot provide" motive power past it. Read one way, the Z8 as delivered stops assisting at 25 km/h, inside those lines. Read the other way, a setting the owner can raise leaves the motor capable of more.

In the case-law search for our article on 750 W bikes limited to 500 W (25 and 26 October 2026), we found no Canadian court decision on a setting the owner can change; CanLII refused our research browser, so that search ran on the open web and the courts' own sites. The nearest is British Columbia's R. v. Wojtkiw, 2021 BCSC 194.

In Wojtkiw, on a scooter whose spec sheet said "governed to 32 km/hr" and which had no usable pedals, the court found that, "regardless of whether the speed governor was disabled or malfunctioned", the motor "could and did propel him over 32 km/hr on level ground", and ordered a new trial.

Québec's moped-style order

Québec adds a test for bikes styled like this one. Its Ministerial Order bars from public highways "2 or 3-wheeled motor vehicles, with or without pedals, that have the appearance of a motorcycle or moped", bear no national safety mark, and have one listed trait, among them "a set of tires and wheels that has the appearance of that of a motorcycle or moped" and "an engine that makes it possible to reach a speed of over 32 km/h or has a power rating greater than 500 W".

Read one way, Riding'times names the Z8 "Moped-Style", its Canadian page, record, FAQ and manual mention no national safety mark, and it publishes 50 km/h. Read the other way, the SAAQ's FAQ says "an actual bicycle that is equipped with an electric motor is a power-assisted bicycle", and the Z8 has pedals and a chain. The SAAQ keeps no list of models: "each model would have to be inspected individually". Québec riders should ask the SAAQ before riding it on a public road.

Jurisdiction What the rule says What it means for the Z8
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations, s. 2: the power-assisted bicycle definition reads "Repealed, SOR/2020-22, s. 3", effective February 4, 2021. No federal e-bike definition applies to any bike.
Ontario Highway Traffic Act s. 1(1) points at the "power-assisted bicycle as defined in subsection 2 (1) of the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations", the federal text repealed in 2021; O. Reg. 369/09 s. 1: "The unladen weight of a power-assisted bicycle must not be more than 120 kilograms". Ontario's page lists "a maximum assisted speed of 32 km/h" and "an electric motor not exceeding 500 watts", and says "It is also illegal to modify your e-bike's electric motor to make it more powerful or to increase the assisted speed of the bike" (Riding an e-bike). Rated 500 W; shipped set to 25 km/h, and Riding'times publishes 50 km/h in another setting. Set past 32 km/h, it is the modification Ontario's page calls illegal. Its 89 lb (40 kg) and 112 lb (51 kg) are under 120 kg.
Québec SAAQ: the motor "must have a maximum power rating of no more than 500 watts and must cease to generate power once the bicycle reaches a speed of no more than 32 km/h" (SAAQ); its French FAQ writes « puissance nominale maximale de 500 watts ou moins » (read 28 October 2026). The Ministerial Order on moped-style vehicles applies too (see above). Rated 500 W, with 1,500 W peak on Riding'times' page: inside on the French "nominale" wording, and outside if "maximum power rating" counts the peak. The moped-style order is the larger question for a bike Riding'times names "Moped-Style".
British Columbia B.C. Reg. 64/2024 s. 3: motors with "a continuous power output rating that, in total, does not exceed 500 W"; "the motors must not be capable of propelling the device at a speed exceeding 32 km/h". Riders under 16 may not operate a standard e-bike on a highway, and riders under 14 a light e-bike. Rated 500 W; shipped set to 25 km/h, and Riding'times publishes 50 km/h in another setting: B.C. words the speed limit as a capability. With 500 W and a throttle it is a standard e-bike under ss. 5 and 6, so no rider under 16 (s. 9).
Alberta AR 304/2002 s. 1(1)(o): a "power-assisted bicycle under the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations (Canada)", the federal definition repealed in 2021; s. 76: a rider under 16 on a power bicycle "shall not carry any passenger". Rated 500 W; shipped set to 25 km/h, and Riding'times publishes 50 km/h in another setting. Our Alberta e-bike law page explains the reference.
Saskatchewan Registration Exemption and Reciprocity Regulations, 2014 s. 2(1)(f): "a total continuous power output rating of 500 watts or less when measured at the shaft of each motor"; "further power assistance cannot be provided when the bicycle attains a speed of 32 kilometres per hour". Rated 500 W; shipped set to 25 km/h, and Riding'times publishes 50 km/h in another setting: Saskatchewan words the speed limit as a capability.
Manitoba Highway Traffic Act s. 1(1): a "continuous power output rating, measured at its shaft, of 500 W or less"; "the motor cannot provide the vehicle with motive power when it is travelling at more than 32 km/h"; s. 145(2): riders must be "14 years of age or older". Rated 500 W; shipped set to 25 km/h, and Riding'times publishes 50 km/h in another setting: Manitoba words the speed limit as a capability.
Nova Scotia N.S. Reg. 221/2026 s. 3: "a total continuous nominal power output rating, measured at the shaft of each motor, of 500 W or less", "no capability of providing further assistance" once the bicycle "reaches a speed of 32 km/h on level ground". Rated 500 W; shipped set to 25 km/h, and Riding'times publishes 50 km/h in another setting: Nova Scotia words the speed limit as a capability.
New Brunswick No e-bike definition in the Motor Vehicle Act; Service New Brunswick says a vehicle with a motor "equal to or less than 500W" whose motor "is not capable of assisting when the vehicle is travelling at a speed greater than 32km/h" can be considered a bicycle (GNB). Rated 500 W; shipped set to 25 km/h, and Riding'times publishes 50 km/h in another setting: the guidance words the speed limit as a capability.
Prince Edward Island Power-Assisted Bicycles Regulations: motors with "continuous power output ratings that in total do not exceed 500 watts"; the bicycle must "not be capable of propelling the power-assisted bicycle at a speed greater than 32 kilometres per hour on level ground"; s. 14 bars riding one "modified after its manufacture in any way that may result in (a) increasing its power or its maximum speed"; "No person under the age of 16 years shall operate a power-assisted bicycle." Rated 500 W; shipped set to 25 km/h, and Riding'times publishes 50 km/h in another setting. Riding it set past 32 km/h is what s. 14 forbids.
Newfoundland and Labrador The Highway Traffic Act has no e-bike definition: a vehicle "propelled, driven or controlled otherwise than by muscular power" is a motor vehicle, and a moped has "a power source that produces a maximum 1.5 k.w", a speed "not exceeding 50 kilometres an hour" and "a maximum weight of 55 kilograms". Two readings. As written, a motor vehicle that fits the moped figures (500 W rated, 1,500 W peak, 50 km/h published, 40 kg and 51 kg). Read the other way, the province "currently follows federal standards" (Cameron Kilfoy, CBC News, 6 August 2026), meaning the definition repealed in 2021. Ask Service NL.
Yukon Motor Vehicles Act s. 1, electric power-assisted cycle: "500 W or less in total for the motor or combination of motors", "incapable of providing further assistance when the vehicle attains a speed of 32 km/h on level ground". Rated 500 W; shipped set to 25 km/h, and Riding'times publishes 50 km/h in another setting: the Act words the speed limit as a capability.
Northwest Territories The All-terrain Vehicles Act counts a "pedal bicycle with motor attachment" among all-terrain vehicles; the Motor Vehicles Act defines a bicycle as "a cycle having any number of wheels that is propelled by human power". An all-terrain vehicle by that Act's list.
Nunavut The All-terrain Vehicles Act counts "a pedal bicycle with motor attachment" (copy read 26 October 2026; the territory's site refused our browser on 31 October 2026). An all-terrain vehicle by that list. Ask the territory before riding near a road.

Each text read on 31 October 2026 unless the row gives another date; links go to the text we read. SAAQ's FAQ and the order: copies read 28 and 26 October 2026, as the sites refused our browser. A rule can change: check yours before riding, and our legal access atlas covers parks and trails.

Two practical points follow. Leave the setting where Riding'times ships it if you ride roads, bike lanes or paths. And Ontario's and PEI's texts go further: Ontario's page calls raising the assisted speed illegal, and PEI's s. 14 bars riding a bike modified to raise its maximum speed.

Takeaway: ride the Z8 as Riding'times ships it, at 25 km/h; set to assist past 32 km/h it is outside every provincial e-bike rule, whatever the "Legal Across Canada" badge says. Our provincial pages for Ontario, Québec, British Columbia and Alberta cover helmets, ages and where you may ride.

Is the Riding Times Z8 UL certified, and has it been recalled?

Riding'times Canada's Z8 page text, its product record, the printed words in the 59 images on its Z8 page and its manual name no UL certificate, no lab and no water rating (text recognition reads words, not logos); the manual's certification page cites FCC Part 15 (radio interference), the EU battery directive 2006/66/EC (batteries and their disposal) and the EU's restriction of hazardous substances, none of them an e-bike safety certificate. No recall at Health Canada or the US CPSC names Riding Times or the Z8, searched on 31 October 2026.

What we checked on 31 October 2026 Result
Health Canada recalls and safety alerts, archive included: riding times, ridingtimes, both apostrophe spellings, ridert, riding robot, shenzhen riding robot, z8, z8 pro, z8s No record names Riding Times or the Z8 (control search: results returned; test term: two real recalls found)
US CPSC recall database: the same terms, on three fields each No record names them (control brand: a real recall found)
Riding'times' Canadian Z8 page text, its product record, the Z8 manual and the 59 images on the page, read by text recognition No UL certificate, lab or water rating named (the same search finds "UL" and "IPX4" on its GT33 page)

Nine CPSC records matched "z8" as part of a model number on other products (ranges, vehicles, a piano and others); none is a Z8 e-bike.

Takeaway: a clean recall record at Health Canada and the CPSC, and no published certificate: if your building or insurer asks for one, tell us with your order and we will request it from Riding'times. Charge only on its own charger, and check the brake motor cut-off before each ride, as its manual says.

How does the Riding Times Z8 compare with three moped-style bikes we sell?

The Z8 is the least expensive of the four at $1,199. The GT33 shares its 500 W rating and 25 km/h factory setting with a bigger battery and a longer bench; the Raptor ST202 GPS pairs a 1,296 Wh battery with a stronger motor; and on RedTail's count the M20 is the easiest of the four to stop on flat-footed, 72 of 100 riders at 5′8″.

Each price is what we charge on 31 October 2026, and each specification comes from the maker's own page, read that night. Smartravel rates the ST202 at 1,200 W sustained, so no province lets it ride roads, bike lanes or paths as an e-bike; Samebike Canada prints two sets of figures for the M20: 48 V 18 Ah, 1,800 W peak and 50 km/h in its headline, and 48 V 15 Ah, 500 W and 32 km/h in its specification tab.

Bike Zeus price Motor and speed (maker) Battery Both feet flat at 5′8″ / 5′10″
Riding Times Z8 $1,199 / $1,599 (one or two packs) 500 W rated, 1,500 W peak; ships at 25 km/h, 50 km/h published 748.8 / 1,497.6 Wh (48 V × 15.6 Ah, one or two) 38 / 80 of 100, RedTail
Riding Times GT33 $1,399 / $1,999 500 W rated, 1,350 W peak; ships at 25 km/h, 50 km/h published 1,296 Wh (48 V × 27 Ah) 22 / 65 of 100, RedTail
Smartravel Raptor ST202 GPS $1,999 1,200 W sustained, 1,500 W peak; 32 mph 1,296 Wh (48 V × 27 Ah) 37 / 79 of 100, RedTail
Samebike M20 $1,599 1,800 W peak and 50 km/h (headline); 500 W and 32 km/h (specification tab) 864 Wh (48 V × 18 Ah, headline); 720 Wh (48 V × 15 Ah, specification tab) 72 / 96 of 100, RedTail

Fit: RedTail eBikes' measured counts on each bike's fixed seat, out of 100 surveyed riders of each height, barefoot (the Z8 row from its Z8 Pro photograph). Makers' pages read the same night: Riding'times Canada, Smartravel's own store and Samebike Canada.

Riding Times GT33

from $1,399 CAD
1,296 Wh48 V × 27 Ah
500 Wrated hub
25 km/hfactory setting

The same maker's cafe racer: the same 500 W rating and 25 km/h factory setting on one 1,296 Wh pack, a longer bench and Riding'times' 5′1″ to 6′3″ window; our GT33 review computes its range and fit the same way. $1,399 with one battery, $1,999 with two.

1,296 Wh48 V × 27 Ah
1,200 Wsustained
GPStracking

A 1,296 Wh battery with built-in GPS tracking and a motor Smartravel rates at 1,200 W sustained and 1,500 W peak, 32 mph, 51.6 kg and a 350 lb load. Rated over 500 W, so no province lets it ride roads, bike lanes or paths as an e-bike; in RedTail's count 37 of 100 riders at 5′8″ put both feet flat. $1,999 at Zeus.

Samebike M20

$1,599 CAD
864 / 720 Whheadline / spec tab
150 kgpayload (Samebike)
500 Wspec tab rating

The easiest stop of the four in RedTail's count: 30 of 100 riders at 5′6″ and 72 at 5′8″ put both feet flat. Samebike prints two sets of figures, 48 V 18 Ah, 1,800 W and 50 km/h in its headline and 48 V 15 Ah, 500 W and 32 km/h in its specification tab, and a 150 kg payload. $1,599 at Zeus, in Brown.

Takeaway: choose the Z8 for the lowest price and the choice of one battery or two at a 500 W rating, the GT33 for the bigger single pack and the cafe-racer look, and the M20 if a both-feet stop matters most; the ST202 pairs a bigger battery with a motor rated over 500 W.

Not sure which of these suits you?

Send us your inseam and your longest regular ride. All four are ours to sell, so the answer can be the GT33, the M20 or the ST202 as easily as the Z8.

See every retro e-bike we sellCall 1-866-938-7580

Who should buy the Riding Times Z8, and who should skip it?

The Z8 earns its place for a rider who wants the moped look and a throttle at the lowest price of the moped-style bikes we compared, $1,199, or $1,599 with the second pack for days past about 45 km, the Z8's modelled planning figure at 25 km/h. It is the wrong bike for a rider under about 5′7″ who needs both feet down at every stop, for a rider and passenger who together pass the manual's 120 kg, and for anyone who wants more than its factory 25 km/h.

What it does well What to plan around
A motor Riding'times Canada rates at 500 W, shipped set to 25 km/h, with working pedals and a throttle Riding'times also publishes 50 km/h in another setting; set to assist past 32 km/h, it is outside every provincial e-bike rule
Two batteries to choose from: about 60 km on the Z8 and 117 km on the Z8 Pro at the shipped 25 km/h, in our model Both feet flat at a stop for 38 of 100 riders at 5′8″ in RedTail's count, and at least 8 in 10 only from 178 cm (5′10″)
Suspension at both ends on 20 × 4 inch fat tires, an extended seat, lights and a removable battery Two load limits, 330 lb (150 kg) on the page and 120 kg in the manual; a passenger counts against them, and in B.C. and Alberta a rider under 16 must not carry one
No recall at Health Canada or the US CPSC names Riding Times or the Z8 Riding'times prints no UL certificate or water rating for the Z8 on its Canadian page, record, gallery text or manual
$1,199 for the Z8 and $1,599 for the Z8 Pro at Zeus, with free shipping across Canada In our model the throttle holds a steady 15 km/h climb only to about 6.1% at the 500 W rating; Riding'times prints 15°
Our verdict

Consider it if the look and the price matter and you fit the seat: Riding'times rates it at 500 W and ships it at 25 km/h, in our model the Z8 covers about 60 km and the Z8 Pro 117 km at that speed on flat pavement at 25 °C, and in RedTail's count at least 8 in 10 riders put both feet flat from 178 cm (5′10″).

Look elsewhere if a flat-footed stop matters and you stand 5′6″ or shorter, where RedTail counts 12 riders in 100 who manage it; if you and a passenger together weigh more than the manual's 120 kg; or if you want it past 32 km/h, where no province lets it ride roads, bike lanes or paths as an e-bike.

That verdict is our opinion, formed from the facts above, and the facts are printed so you can reach your own.

Buying the Riding Times Z8 from Zeus

We list the Riding Times Z8 at $1,199 and the Z8 Pro at $1,599, with free shipping across Canada. Riding'times' warranty is backed by Riding'times in full on bikes bought from us, we handle every claim, and our 15-day return policy covers unused, unopened bikes, less a 15% restocking fee.

  • Shipping: our shipping policy: "Shipping is Free Canada wide. Orders will be processed within 1-3 business days after the order has been confirmed."
  • Returns: our refund policy accepts "unused and unopened items within 15 days of delivery", with a 15% restocking fee, and the customer pays return shipping.
  • Warranty: Riding'times prints two sets of terms: on its warranty page, 2 years on electric bikes bought from its own site and "Batteries are covered by a 1-year prorated warranty."; in the Z8 manual, 12 months, with 6 months on the battery, motor and controller. Backed by Riding'times in full; we file and follow the claim for you, and call 1-866-938-7580 for how the terms apply to your bike.
  • Zeus Care: our warranty page: "Your first month of Zeus Care is included with every e-bike." Zeus Care plans run from $119 to $599, and the page says "Zeus Care is not a warranty and does not add coverage."
  • Paying over time: our financing guide sets out the options.
  • Questions: call 1-866-938-7580 before you order; real people answer.

Right of reply: Riding'times can correct or answer anything in this review at milad@zeusebikes.ca, and we will publish the reply here.


Riding Times Z8 questions, answered

Is the Riding Times Z8 worth it?

For a rider about 178 cm (5′10″) or taller who wants a moped-style e-bike on a budget and will ride it as shipped, yes, in our view. In our model the Z8 covers about 60 km and the Z8 Pro about 117 km at the shipped 25 km/h on flat pavement at 25 °C. Shorter riders should read the fit section first: on its fixed seat, a both-feet stop belongs to taller riders.

How fast does the Riding Times Z8 go?

It ships in a 25 km/h speed-limit mode. Riding'times Canada also prints "32 MPH/50 KM/H" as its top speed and "31 mph" in its comparison table, reached only in another setting, and we do not explain how. Set to assist past 32 km/h, it is outside every provincial e-bike rule.

How far does the Riding Times Z8 go on one charge?

In our model, an 82 kg (180 lb) rider on the throttle gets about 60 km at 25 km/h from the Z8's 748.8 Wh pack and 117 km from the Z8 Pro's two packs, on flat pavement at 25 °C; keep 25% back and plan on 45 and 88 km. Riding'times prints 25 to 50 miles on the throttle for the Z8 and 50 to 75 for the Z8 Pro, and its manual 48 to 90 km and 96 to 180 km.

What is the difference between the Z8 and the Z8 Pro?

A second battery and the rear shock. The Z8 carries one 48 V 15.6 Ah pack and double rear springs, the Z8 Pro two packs and a rear hydraulic shock; Riding'times prints 79 (89) lb and 91 (112) lb. At Zeus the Z8 is $1,199 and the Z8 Pro $1,599.

What is the Riding Times Z8S?

A third version in Riding'times' manual, with one 48 V 20.4 Ah pack, 65 to 130 km and a 54.6 V 3 A charger. Its Canadian page offers the Z8 and the Z8 Pro, and those are the two we sell; our US sister store, RedTail eBikes, sets the three side by side.

Is the Riding Times Z8 street legal in Canada?

As shipped, its printed figures sit on the provincial lines: a motor rated at 500 W, a 25 km/h setting and working pedals. Most provinces word the speed limit as a capability, and Riding'times publishes 50 km/h in another setting, so whether a changeable setting meets that wording is unsettled; we found no Canadian court decision on it. Québec's moped-style order and Newfoundland and Labrador read differently: see the law table.

Can I remove the Z8's speed limiter?

We do not explain how, and we advise against it on any road, bike lane or path. Riding'times' own FAQ says "Changing the factory setting may change the bike’s legal classification and where it may be ridden", Ontario's page calls raising the assisted speed illegal, PEI bars riding a bike modified to go faster, and Riding'times' warranty page excludes "Unauthorized modifications or tampering".

What is the Z8's weight limit, and can it carry a passenger?

Riding'times' page prints "The bike supports a maximum load of up to 330 lbs (150 kg)." Its page adds "If carrying a passenger, the combined rider, passenger, and cargo weight must remain within the maximum load limit.", while its manual prints 120 kg and cautions "Obey traffic regulations and do not carry passengers on the bike." Weight decides it: plan on the manual's 120 kg for everyone and everything aboard. In British Columbia a rider under 16 "must not use the cycle to carry or tow a passenger", and Alberta's rule for riders under 16 says the same.

How much does the Riding Times Z8 weigh?

Riding'times prints 79 (89) lb for the Z8 and 91 (112) lb for the Z8 Pro; the larger figure is with the battery, about 40 kg and 51 kg. The packs come off to charge, so the heaviest lift is the bike itself, 79 lb for the Z8 or 91 lb for the Z8 Pro without its packs.

What is the Z8's seat height?

Riding'times prints none. Measured on Riding'times' own photograph of the Z8 Pro, the seat's lowest point sits at about 33.0 inches (83.8 cm), and on RedTail eBikes' count that puts both feet flat for 12 of 100 riders at 5′6″, 38 at 5′8″ and 80 at 5′10″. The seat is fixed.

Is the Riding Times Z8 waterproof?

No. Riding'times' FAQ says "Riding’times electric bikes should not be treated as waterproof.", its manual says "The bike is not designed for wading.", and its Canadian Z8 page, record, gallery text and manual print no water rating. Its warranty page excludes "Improper storage or exposure to extreme elements (rain, snow, heat)".

What battery and charger does the Z8 use?

The Z8 has one removable 48 V 15.6 Ah pack (748.8 Wh) and the Z8 Pro two (1,497.6 Wh). Riding'times' page lists "48V 2A x1" and "48V 2A x2" chargers and "7-9H" to charge; its manual lists a 54.6 V 2 A charger, which reads as the same charger described by its output voltage. Store a pack "charged to about 40% to 60% of capacity", as the manual says.

What do the Z8's error codes mean?

Riding'times' manual lists six: E001 controller failure, E002 communication failure, E003 Hall fault, E004 throttle handle failure, E005 brake handle failure and E006 motor failure. Stop riding and call us at 1-866-938-7580 with the code; the warranty claim goes through us.

Can the Riding Times Z8 do wheelies?

Riding'times' page says "Yes. The Riding’times Z8 is capable of wheelies". Its own warranty page excludes "Improper use, accidents, stunts, racing, or abuse", so a wheelie that breaks something is yours to pay for, and we do not recommend it on a road or path.

Is Riding Times a good brand?

No recall names Riding Times or the Z8 at Health Canada or the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, searched on 31 October 2026 with controls. Riding'times runs a Canadian store with a Z8 manual, a warranty page and a Canadian FAQ, and its own pages disagree on several Z8 figures, which this review sets side by side. Our GT73 review covers its bigger electric motorbike.

What warranty comes with the Riding Times Z8?

Riding'times prints two sets of terms. Its warranty page: 2 years on electric bikes bought from its own site, and "Batteries are covered by a 1-year prorated warranty." Its Z8 manual: 12 months, with 6 months on the battery, motor and controller. Bought from us, the warranty is backed by Riding'times in full and we file the claim for you.

Where can I buy the Riding Times Z8 in Canada?

From us. We sell the Riding Times Z8 at $1,199 and the Z8 Pro at $1,599, with free shipping across Canada and our 15-day return policy on unused, unopened bikes, less a 15% restocking fee. Call 1-866-938-7580 with your height and how you will ride it.


The bottom line

The Z8 puts a 500 W motor, fat tires and suspension at both ends under a moped-style seat for $1,199, or $1,599 with a second battery: in our model about 60 or 117 km at the shipped 25 km/h on flat pavement at 25 °C, and in RedTail's count both feet flat for at least 8 in 10 riders from 178 cm (5′10″). Ride it as shipped.

Measure your inseam before you order: on a fixed 33-inch seat it decides more than the rider window does. Then call 1-866-938-7580 with it and your daily distance, and we will tell you whether the Z8, the Z8 Pro or another bike suits you. You have 15 days from delivery to return it unused and unopened, less a 15% restocking fee; shipping is free across Canada, and financing is available.

Ready when you are

Free shipping across Canada, Riding'times' warranty backed in full and handled by us, and a person on the phone before and after you buy.

See the Riding Times Z8, $1,199Call 1-866-938-7580


Sources

  1. Riding'times: the Z8 product page and product record on Riding'times' Canadian store and the Z8 Pro page on its US store (store pages named without links), its FAQ and warranty pages, and the Z8, Z8 Pro and Z8S manual on its own CDN. Read 31 October 2026.
  2. Videos: Zeus eBikes, Best Electric Bike Under $1000 in Canada? | Z8 Electric Bike Review (YouTube, 11 February 2026); Random Adventures, Riding Times Z8 pro Ebike Road Trip to Starr's mill (YouTube, 23 February 2025). Read 31 October 2026.
  3. Riding'times, Smartravel and Samebike: the GT33 page on Riding'times' Canadian store, the Raptor ST202 page on Smartravel's own store and the M20 page on Samebike Canada (named without links). Read 31 October 2026.
  4. Our US sister store, RedTail eBikes: Riding Times Z8 Pro Review 2026 (verified 26 September 2026; measured fit and the range model); Riding Times GT33 Review, Samebike M20 Review and Smartravel Raptor ST202 Review (fit counts). Each read live 31 October 2026.
  5. Health Canada, recalls and safety alerts: searches for riding times and the brand's other spellings, its company name and the model, archive included, with a control search and a test term. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, recall database: the same terms on three fields. Read 31 October 2026.
  6. Range physics: Martin et al. (1998); Bafang OEM workbook (2021); Bicycle Rolling Resistance, fat-bike tests; Tengattini and Bigazzi (2018); Arango, Lopez and Ceren (2021); McMaster LG HG2 data; US Standard Atmosphere (1976); through RedTail eBikes' Riding'times range model, run at Riding'times Canada's 500 W rating.
  7. Fit: ANSUR II anthropometric survey (US Army, public release); RedTail eBikes fit model, its Z8 Pro run on the seat measured from Riding'times' photograph.
  8. Provincial and territorial texts: linked in the law table; the federal regulations, Ontario, Québec, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador, Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Read 31 October 2026, except SAAQ's FAQ (28 October 2026), Québec's Ministerial Order (26 October 2026) and Nunavut's Act (26 October 2026). Case law: the search for our 750 W article (25 and 26 October 2026; CanLII refused our research browser); Supreme Court of British Columbia, R. v. Wojtkiw, 2021 BCSC 194, 9 February 2021.
  9. News: Cameron Kilfoy, As N.L. eyes e-bike, e-scooter regulations, this vendor says safety is top of mind, CBC News, 6 August 2026.
  10. Zeus eBikes: the Z8, GT33, Raptor ST202 GPS and M20 listings, and our refund, shipping and warranty pages. Read 31 October 2026.