Varun M27-1 Review: Is This £659 E-Bike Worth It? UK Test

The Varun M27-1 is an affordable electric mountain bike sold by Biktron. At £659, it costs far less than many mainstream e-bikes. This review examines what you actually get for that money. We look at the motor, battery, comfort, and UK legal status.

We have not ridden this bike, but we have studied the manufacturer specifications and the UK rules. Our judgement is based on price, components, and typical use. That keeps the review honest and practical for everyday buyers.

If you want a simple e-bike for commuting or light trails, this could be a sensible choice. But you need to know its limits before you buy. Read on to see if the Varun M27-1 fits your needs.

Overview: What Is the Varun M27-1?

The Varun M27-1 is a 26 inch electric mountain bike with a 250W rear hub motor. It has a removable battery and a hardtail aluminium frame. The bike is legal to ride on UK roads as an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC).

It is aimed at commuters and weekend riders who want an e-bike without spending over a grand. The low step-over frame suits riders from around 5ft 4in to 6ft 2in. That covers many UK adults, though very tall riders may need a longer seatpost.

The current price at Biktron is £659, down from the RRP of £759. That is a saving of £100 and puts it firmly in the budget category. You get a lot of basic functionality for the price, but some parts are entry level.

Who Makes It?

Varun is a budget e-bike brand sold by Biktron. You can see the full Varun range on the Biktron site. The brand focuses on simple, value-driven electric bikes for everyday use.

Varun models appear across several Biktron categories, from folding bikes to fat tyre mountain bikes. The M27-1 is one of the more traditional full-size options. It avoids gimmicks and sticks to a proven formula.

Position in the Range

The M27-1 sits near the entry point for Varun mountain bikes. Its sibling, the Varun M26-2 Fat Tire, offers fatter tyres for £550. The M27-1 adds a slightly different frame and tyre setup, but the core motor and battery are similar.

If you want more trail capability, the Varun S26-1 Fat Tire Electric Bike costs £949 and features 4 inch wide tyres. The M27-1 is lighter and quicker on tarmac, making it better for mixed commuting.

Frame, Design and Build Quality

The frame is made from aluminium alloy, which keeps the bike lighter than steel. Varun does not publish an exact weight, but similar models sit around 22 to 24kg. That is normal for budget e-bikes with a battery and motor.

The M27-1 uses a hardtail frame with a suspension fork upfront. This soaks up bumps on gravel paths and potholes. You do not get rear suspension, so the saddle takes some impact on rough trails. The fork has around 80mm of travel.

The welds are tidy and the paint finish looks clean. Cables are routed along the frame and secured with clips. That reduces rattles and keeps the bike looking neat. The overall feel is solid for the price.

Finish and Components You Will Actually Touch

The grips, saddle, and pedals are basic but usable. You might upgrade the saddle if you ride daily. The pedals are plastic and fine for casual use, but they can feel slippery in the rain.

The battery sits on the down tube and locks with a key. You can remove it for charging indoors. That is handy if you park the bike outside or in a shared hallway. The battery cover feels sturdy and clicks home confidently.

If you want a different wheel size or more suspension, the electric mountain bike range has other choices. The M27-1 is one of the more affordable full-size mountain options from Varun. It competes well with other budget hardtails.

Durability and Warranty

Varun offers a standard manufacturer warranty through Biktron. The exact length is on the product page, but it typically covers the frame, motor, and battery for a set period. Always register your bike and keep proof of purchase.

Budget e-bikes need regular checks on bolts, brake pads, and tyre pressure. The mechanical parts are easy to service at any local bike shop. That keeps long-term running costs low compared to more complex e-bikes.

Motor and Battery Performance

The rear hub motor is rated at 250W continuous power, which is the UK legal maximum. It provides pedal assist up to 15.5 mph. After that, the motor cuts out and you pedal normally, just like a regular bike.

Varun does not give a torque figure, but hub motors like this are fine on moderate hills. They help most when starting from traffic lights or climbing gentle slopes. Steep climbs will need more effort from you, and the motor may feel sluggish.

The motor is quiet and smooth in normal use. You hear a faint whirr when climbing, which is normal for hub motors. The assist feels natural and does not jerk when it engages.

Assist Levels and Display

The M27-1 has a simple handlebar display showing speed, battery level, and assist mode. You can switch between three or five assist levels depending on the version. The buttons are easy to reach while riding.

There is no throttle, as UK law does not allow full throttle on EAPCs without pedalling. You must pedal to get assistance. Walking mode may be included, helping you push the bike uphill at low speed.

Real World Range

The manufacturer quotes a typical range of up to 30 miles on a full charge. Real range is lower if you ride on hills, in cold weather, or use high assist. Expect 18 to 25 miles for mixed UK commuting.

The battery is a 36V lithium-ion unit, but the exact amp-hour capacity is not always listed. That makes precise range estimates harder. You can extend range by using lower assist levels and keeping tyres inflated.

Cold weather reduces battery performance, so winter range may drop by a fifth. Charging the battery indoors at room temperature helps. Never leave the battery in direct sunlight or a hot car.

Charging Time

A full charge takes around 5 to 6 hours from empty, according to Varun. You can top up from a standard UK socket. Removable batteries make office charging simple, so you can top up at work.

The charger is included in the box. It is a basic 2 amp charger, so it is not fast. But overnight charging works well for daily use. Always use the supplied charger to avoid damage.

Gears, Brakes and Wheels

The M27-1 uses a 21 speed Shimano drivetrain. That gives you three chainrings up front and seven gears at the rear. It is enough for most town and light trail riding. The gear range is wide, helping on both flats and hills.

Mechanical disc brakes provide stopping power in wet weather. They need cable adjustment over time, but they are easier to service than hydraulic brakes. The 160mm rotors are adequate for a bike of this weight.

The brake levers are basic but comfortable. They have a reach adjustment on some versions, which helps smaller hands. Braking feel is predictable, although not as sharp as hydraulic systems.

Tyres and Traction

The tyres are 26 inch by 1.95 inch all terrain. They are not full fat tyres, so they feel quicker on tarmac. They still grip on gravel and dry dirt paths. The tread pattern is a compromise between road speed and off-road bite.

If you ride mostly on muddy trails, consider a fat tyre model like the Varun S26-1 Fat Tire Electric Bike. That bike offers more float and traction, but it costs £949. For tarmac commutes, the M27-1 tyres roll more easily.

Shifting Performance

The Shimano gears shift reliably if tuned correctly. Expect some cable stretch in the first few weeks, so a quick adjustment may be needed. The thumb shifters are basic but functional.

You have enough gears for steep climbs when you use the smallest chainring. On flat roads, the largest chainring lets you cruise at speed. The motor assistance means you will not use the very lowest gears often.

Comfort and Ride Feel

The suspension fork has around 80mm of travel, which is basic but useful. It reduces jolts from potholes and tree roots. Combined with the padded saddle, short rides feel comfortable. Longer rides may expose the budget saddle.

The handlebar is flat and wide, giving you a stable upright position. That helps you see traffic better in town. The grips are soft, but they may wear quickly with daily use. Swapping them costs little.

The riding position is relaxed for a mountain bike. You are not too hunched over, which reduces strain on your back and wrists. That is good for commuting and leisure rides.

Saddle and Handlebar Setup

The saddle height and handlebar angle are adjustable. Most riders can find a reasonable fit without extra parts. A taller rider may want a longer seatpost or a shorter stem for a better reach.

The bike has no suspension lockout, so the fork bobs a little when you pedal hard. That is normal at this price. It is not a deal breaker for leisure riding, but it can reduce efficiency on very smooth tarmac.

Commuting Ergonomics

For daily commuting, the M27-1 works well. The upright position helps you shoulder-check in traffic. The suspension fork handles potholes and dropped kerbs. You will still feel rough surfaces through the saddle, so padded shorts help.

The bike does not come with mudguards or a rack. Wet roads will spray your back and legs. You can fit aftermarket mudguards and a rear rack, but that adds cost. Factor in about £40 to £80 for basic commuting accessories.

UK Law and Safe Riding

The Varun M27-1 is road legal in the UK as an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC). You must be at least 14 years old to ride one. You do not need a licence, tax, or MOT.

The motor power is capped at 250W and assistance stops at 15.5 mph. This matches the UK e-bike rules. Riding a derestricted bike on public roads is illegal and can lead to fines.

The bike is not classed as a moped because it only assists when you pedal. If you modify it to have a throttle or higher speed, it becomes a motor vehicle. That would require registration, insurance, and a driving licence.

Where You Can Ride

EAPCs are allowed on cycle paths, bridleways, and roads. You cannot ride them on footpaths or motorways. Always follow local signs and the Highway Code. Be considerate to pedestrians on shared paths.

For safe riding, Cycling UK recommends wearing a helmet and using lights. The M27-1 does not include lights, so you must buy them separately. That adds to the total cost.

You do not legally need insurance, but third-party cover is cheap and useful. It protects you if you damage a car or injure someone. Many home insurance policies offer cycle cover as an add-on.

Maintenance Checks for Safety

Before every ride, check the brakes, tyre pressure, and battery charge. Ensure the quick release levers are tight. A loose wheel can be dangerous. Regular checks take only a minute.

Here is a simple weekly routine to keep the M27-1 safe and reliable:

• Check brake pads for wear and adjust cable tension if needed.
• Inflate tyres to the pressure marked on the sidewall.
• Tighten handlebar, saddle, and wheel bolts.
• Wipe the chain and apply a little bike oil.
• Ensure the battery lock is secure and the key is removed.
• Test all lights if you have fitted them.

These checks are easy and do not cost anything. They will extend the life of the bike and reduce the chance of a breakdown.

Who Should Buy the Varun M27-1?

This bike suits commuters with journeys under 10 miles each way. It is also good for leisure riders who want a simple e-bike for canal paths and parks. The upright position and suspension fork handle mixed surfaces well.

It is not the best choice for hardcore mountain biking. The suspension and gears are entry level. If you want a more trail focused bike, look at the VARUN M26-2 PLUS at £809. That model has wider tyres and a more rugged build.

The M27-1 is also not ideal for very steep cities. Bristol or Sheffield riders may find the motor works hard on long climbs. If you live in a hilly area, consider a mid-drive motor bike or a more powerful legal hub motor.

Best Use Cases

The M27-1 works well for flat to rolling terrain. It can handle gentle hills. Very steep climbs will drain the battery faster and ask more from your legs. For most UK towns and suburbs, it is perfectly adequate.

Here are the riders who will get the most from this bike:

• Commuters with a route under 10 miles and a place to charge at work or home.
• Leisure riders who stick to tarmac, gravel paths, and easy trails.
• New riders who want a legal, simple e-bike without complex settings.
• Budget buyers who need a full-size e-bike for under £700.

If you fit one of those groups, the M27-1 is a strong contender. If you need long range, heavy cargo, or aggressive trail riding, spend more elsewhere.

Pros and Cons

Here is a quick summary of what you gain and what you compromise with the Varun M27-1 at £659. This list is based on the specification sheet and our judgement, not a physical test.

These are the key strengths:

• Legal 250W motor and 15.5 mph assist for UK roads.
• Removable battery for easy indoor charging.
• Aluminium frame and front suspension keep the ride comfortable.
• 21 speed gears and mechanical disc brakes are simple to maintain.
• £659 price is low for a full-size electric mountain bike.

And these are the compromises you accept:

• Basic saddle, grips, and pedals may need upgrading for daily use.
• No lights or mudguards included, so budget for extras.
• Range is modest; expect 18 to 25 real miles on mixed routes.
• No rear suspension, so rough trails are less comfortable.
• Entry level fork and gearing limit serious off-road use.

None of these compromises are deal breakers at this price. They are simply what you trade for the low cost. If you want better parts, you must pay more.

Varun M27-1 Verdict

The Varun M27-1 is a sensible budget e-bike. It does the legal basics well and costs less than many competitors. For £659, you get a usable commuter with a removable battery and a comfortable upright ride.

It is not a high performance machine. The range is modest, and the parts are basic. But for the price, it is one of the better value full-size e-mountain bikes we have seen. It compares well against other budget brands.

The bike is honest about what it is. It will not win races or conquer steep mountains. It will get you to work, to the shops, or down a cycle path without breaking down. That is exactly what many UK riders need.

Is It Worth £659?

Yes, if your expectations match the price. It will get you to work and back without sweat. It will also handle light weekend trails. If you want more range or comfort, you will spend more elsewhere.

Check the current stock and price on the Varun M27-1 Electric Mountain Bike product page. The price we quote here is £659, but sales can change it. Look for bundle deals that include lights or a helmet.

Overall, the Varun M27-1 earns a solid score for value. It is one of the cheapest legal full-size e-bikes you can buy in the UK today. If that is your budget, put it on your shortlist.