Murf Electric Bikes Review 2026: The Beach Cruiser E-Bike Worth Your Attention?

Mike Published October 5, 2026

Our rating

Recommended

What we like

52-volt battery system across all models — the Alpha ST, Higgs ST, Higgs Plus, and Higgs Cargo all run 52V for better torque and range than common 48V competitors
Hydraulic disc brakes standard — 4-piston on the Alpha ST and Higgs Cargo, Tektro 2-piston on Higgs Plus and Higgs ST
UL 2849 and UL 2271 compliant safety certifications across the lineup
2-year warranty on electrical components, battery, and manufacturer defects
Murf HQ in San Clemente, CA with test ride and in-person service center support

Watch out for

7-day return window with under-10-mile odometer limit — substantially shorter than many e-bike competitors
5% restocking fee on e-bike returns; 20% on accessories — customer also pays return shipping
Alpha ST is rated for riders 5'7" to 6'5"+, limiting fit for shorter riders on that model
70-80 lb bike weights require a vehicle with a hitch or rack system for transport

What Murf Electric Bikes Sells

Murf Electric Bikes makes fat-tire e-bikes positioned as beach cruisers with genuine performance specifications. The brand is based in San Clemente, California, and markets itself as “The Original E-Bike Beach Cruisers” — a nod to its coastal origins and the fat-tire, relaxed-geometry design language that runs across all models.

What separates Murf from budget e-bike brands is primarily the powertrain: all models run a 52-volt battery system, which delivers better torque, stronger hill-climbing performance, and more consistent range than the 48-volt systems common in the mass-market tier. Hydraulic disc brakes are standard across the lineup. All bikes carry UL 2849 and UL 2271 safety certifications.

The current lineup spans five models: the Alpha ST (the performance flagship), the Higgs Plus (passenger-capable), the Higgs ST (compact step-thru), the Higgs Cargo (cargo-focused), and the Gigi (lighter cruiser). Each targets a different use case while sharing the brand’s 52-volt architecture and IPX6 water-resistance rating.

Alpha ST: The Performance Flagship

The Alpha ST is Murf’s most capable model and the most spec-forward in the lineup. A 750W motor, a 52V 20Ah (1040Wh) battery, and 26” × 4” fat tires combine for a stated top speed of 28 MPH in Class 3 pedal-assist mode and 20 MPH in Class 2 throttle mode. The Class 2/3 selector means riders can switch the bike to a lower-speed mode for paths and multi-use trails where Class 3 is restricted.

The Alpha ST is rated for 330 lbs total weight capacity and carries 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes for confident stopping at higher speeds. Integrated lighting front and rear, an IPX6 water-resistance rating, and a step-thru frame complete the package. The brand states a 30–60 mile range per charge; this figure is a real-world range spread dependent on rider weight, terrain, and assist level. The step-thru geometry makes mounting easy, though the recommended rider height is 5’7” to 6’5”+, which excludes shorter riders from this specific model.

Higgs Models: Passenger, Cargo, and Compact

The Higgs Plus is Murf’s passenger e-bike — the only model in the lineup designed to carry two riders. A 750W motor and 52V 15Ah battery support a total weight capacity of 385 lbs, with a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain for controlled hill climbing under load. The Class 2 rating (20 MPH) reflects the passenger-focused design priority: stability and confidence over top speed. The quick-release passenger seat pad and fold-up pegs are included; a separate Passenger Bundle adds support bars and a backrest.

The Higgs Cargo takes a different approach to hauling capacity: instead of a passenger seat, it features a bamboo deck cargo platform with fold-up running boards and 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes to manage the 440 lb total weight capacity — the highest in the Murf lineup. The 20 MPH Class 2 rating and 30–50 mile range reflect the heavier-duty application. At 80 lbs, it is the heaviest model in the range.

The Higgs ST is the most accessible entry point: 750W motor, 52V 15Ah battery, 20” × 4” fat tires, and 60 lbs — 10 lbs lighter than the Alpha ST. The Class 2/3 selectable system provides up to 25 MPH in pedal-assist mode, and the step-thru frame fits riders from 4’11” to 6’4”. The upright riding position, BMX-style handlebars, and integrated rear rack are design choices that favor comfortable everyday use over pure performance.

The Gigi runs a 500W motor (versus 750W on other models) with the same 52V 15Ah battery. The 26 × 2.1-inch tires are narrower than the 4-inch fat tires on the rest of the lineup — at about 2.1 inches wide, they sit below the true fat-tire threshold, which affects ride comfort on rough surfaces. At 60 lbs and a 250 lb weight capacity, it is the most compact and lightest model. The integrated rear rack and color-matched front basket position it as a practical daily commuter.

Shipping, Returns & Warranty

Murf ships from San Clemente, California, with delivery times varying by location. The brand does not state a free shipping threshold on the pages reviewed; shipping costs appear at checkout. Bikes arrive 75% assembled, with an estimated one-hour completion time for the remaining assembly.

The return window is 7 days from delivery — a notably short window by e-bike industry standards. Returns require the bike to have fewer than 10 miles on the odometer, be in like-new condition with original packaging, and include all accessories. A 5% restocking fee applies to bikes; accessories carry a 20% restocking fee. Customers are responsible for return shipping costs, though Murf provides a pre-paid label and deducts the cost from the refund. Pre-authorization is required before sending any return. For pre-orders, a full refund is available at any time before pickup or delivery.

The 2-year warranty covers the battery, electrical components, and manufacturing defects across all models.

Is Murf Worth It vs. Alternatives?

The primary direct competitors for Murf e-bikes are brands like Rad Power Bikes, Aventon, and Lectric in the mid-range fat-tire category. Murf differentiates on its 52-volt battery system (many competitors in this price range use 48V), standard hydraulic disc brakes, and the beach-cruiser aesthetic. Rad Power and Aventon both offer longer return windows (14–30 days depending on model) — which matters if you want more time to assess fit and comfort on local terrain.

For buyers in coastal areas who value the style language and want a UL-certified 52V system with hydraulic brakes, Murf is a strong contender. For buyers who prioritize flexible return terms or a wider range of frame sizes, comparing Murf’s 7-day window against competitor policies before purchasing is worthwhile.

How We Researched This Review

This review draws on specifications from Murf’s individual product pages for the Alpha ST, Higgs Plus, Higgs ST, Higgs Cargo, and Gigi models, as well as the brand’s return policy page and homepage. Mike did not ride or purchase any Murf e-bike during this research. All specs, range estimates, and policy details are presented as brand-stated figures from the pages reviewed.

Murf Electric Bikes Products Worth a Look

Alpha ST

Murf's performance step-thru: 750W motor, 52V 20Ah battery (1040Wh), 28 MPH Class 3 pedal assist, 26" × 4" fat tires, 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes, 30–60 mile range. IPX6 water-resistant.
Higgs Plus

Murf's passenger-capable e-bike: 750W motor, 52V 15Ah (780Wh), 20 MPH Class 2, 20" × 4" fat tires, 385 lb total capacity, 7-speed Shimano drivetrain. Quick-release passenger seat and fold-up pegs included.
Higgs ST

Compact step-thru cruiser: 750W motor, 52V 15Ah (780Wh), 25 MPH Class 2/3 selectable, 20" × 4" fat tires, 60 lb bike weight, fits riders 4'11" to 6'4".
Higgs Cargo

Built for hauling: 750W motor, 52V 15Ah (780Wh), 20 MPH Class 2, bamboo deck cargo platform with fold-up running boards, 440 lb total capacity, 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes.
Gigi

Murf's lighter cruiser option: 500W motor, 52V 15Ah (780Wh), 25 MPH Class 2/3 selectable, 26 × 2.1-inch tires, 60 lb bike weight, 250 lb capacity, integrated rear rack and front basket.

Shop at Murf Electric Bikes

Frequently Asked Questions

What class are Murf e-bikes — Class 1, 2, or 3?

Most Murf models are user-selectable between Class 2 (20 MPH throttle) and Class 3 (25–28 MPH pedal assist). The Alpha ST reaches 28 MPH in Class 3 mode; the Higgs Plus is Class 2 only at 20 MPH. Class determines where you can legally ride, which varies by state — check your local regulations before purchase.

What is the real-world range on a Murf e-bike?

Murf states 30–60 miles per charge across most models. The Higgs Cargo states 30–50 miles. Actual range depends on rider weight, terrain, assist level, headwind, and temperature. The lower end of the range applies to heavier riders on hilly terrain at full throttle; flatter routes at lower assist levels can approach the upper estimate.

Are Murf e-bikes UL certified — is the battery safe?

Yes — all models reviewed carry UL 2849 (complete e-bike system) and UL 2271 (battery) compliance certifications. These are safety standards developed specifically for e-bikes and lithium batteries, covering electrical, fire, and mechanical hazard testing.

How long does it take to charge a Murf e-bike battery?

Murf states 5–6 hours for a full charge from 0 to 100% on the Gigi, Higgs ST, and Higgs Cargo models. The Alpha ST uses a larger 1040Wh battery; specific charge time for that model is not stated on the pages reviewed.

What is Murf's return policy?

Returns are accepted within 7 days of delivery, with under 10 miles on the odometer, in like-new condition with original packaging. A 5% restocking fee applies to bikes; 20% for accessories. Customers cover return shipping costs — Murf provides a pre-paid label and deducts the cost from the refund. Prior return authorization is required.

Does Murf offer financing?

The brand's website mentions financing options are available. Specific financing partners and terms are not detailed on the pages reviewed — check the checkout process or contact Murf directly for current options.

How much does a Murf e-bike weigh and can I transport it on a car rack?

The Higgs ST and Gigi weigh 60 lbs each. The Higgs Plus and Alpha ST weigh 70 lbs. The Higgs Cargo weighs 80 lbs. These weights are typical for fat-tire e-bikes and are within the capacity of most quality hitch-mount bike racks rated for e-bikes. Verify your rack's per-bike weight rating before transport.

Does Murf ship assembled or do I need to build the bike?

Murf bikes arrive 75% assembled, per brand statement on the Alpha ST product page. The brand estimates approximately one hour to complete assembly. Most customers can complete setup at home with basic tools; Murf also offers a professional assembly service and has service centers and retail partners in several states.