APEFOX RH20 Delivery & Assembly: First-Ride Checklist

Before the RH20 arrives

• Choose a level, well-lit assembly area larger than the bike.
• Arrange a second adult to help move and stabilise the carton.
• Keep a phone ready to photograph every side of the package.
• Have the order confirmation and exact RH20 specification available.
• Prepare a safe indoor charging location away from exits and combustible clutter.
• Download or open the current RH20 manual before starting.
• If you are not confident with brakes, wheels or folding mechanisms, book a bicycle technician.

European listings put gross shipping weight around 45.2kg. Do not plan to drag the carton upstairs alone, and do not use protruding components as lifting handles.

What APEFOX says is included

The current official contents list includes a 54.6V 2A charger, user and installation manuals, two pairs of brake pads, 5mm and 6mm wrenches, and a multi-function tool covering 2.5/3/4/5mm sizes. Contents can change by batch, so use the packing list supplied with your own box as the final reference.

Step 1: document the unopened delivery

Photograph all sides, shipping labels, crushed corners, punctures, wet areas and broken tape before opening. If damage is serious, do not hide it by assembling immediately. Record the unboxing continuously where practical and contact the seller with the order number and clear evidence.

Keep the carton and protective material until the bike is inspected and its main systems work. Packaging can be important if a return or carrier claim becomes necessary.

Step 2: inspect before tightening anything

• Frame tubes and weld areas for dents, cracks or paint stress
• Folding joint, latch and secondary safety mechanism
• Fork alignment and suspension surfaces
• Wheel rims, spokes, tyres and axle seating
• Brake rotors for obvious bends or contamination
• Cables and hydraulic hoses for pinching, cuts or leaks
• Battery case, mount and electrical connectors
• Display, controls, lights, rack and derailleur

Step 3: assemble to the supplied manual

Independent videos show RH20 assembly and control setup, but a video should supplement—not replace—the manual for the delivered batch. Component design and fastener requirements can change. Use the stated sequence and torque values; do not copy a torque figure from a different bike.

Common boxed-bike tasks may include positioning the handlebar, fitting the front wheel, pedals or accessories, and checking rack/fender alignment. The exact work depends on how your unit was packed. Thread pedals by hand before using a tool, keep the correct left/right orientation, and never force a fastener that feels cross-threaded.

Step 4: check brakes, tyres and wheels

With the bike supported safely, spin each wheel and operate each brake separately. Rotors should not be heavily bent, levers should not pull to the handlebar, and there should be no fluid leak. A light rotor rub may need adjustment; weak or inconsistent hydraulic braking needs competent inspection.

Inflate tyres according to the tyre sidewall, terrain and permitted range—not to a number copied from another fat bike. Confirm the tyre bead is seated evenly and that both axles are fully secured.

Step 5: battery and electrical check

1. Inspect the battery and connector for impact, moisture or distortion.
2. Confirm the charger label and connector match the supplied system.
3. Charge on a stable, non-flammable surface with ventilation.
4. Do not use a damaged charger, extension lead or battery.
5. Power on and verify the display, lights and basic control response.
6. Do not change hidden settings before establishing normal operation.

APEFOX states a 7–8-hour charge time with the 2A charger. A partially charged delivery battery may take less. Unusual odour, swelling, smoke, heat or noise is a reason to disconnect power only if it is safe and move away from the hazard.

Step 6: first ride at low power

Choose a flat, traffic-free and legally permitted area. Wear appropriate protective equipment. Begin at the lowest assistance, learn the speed-sensor response, test each brake progressively and listen for rubbing, knocking or loose components. Do not use dual-motor acceleration or maximum speed as the first test.

After a short ride, stop and recheck the folding latch, wheel security, controls, pedals, rack, fenders and any fasteners installed during assembly. Follow the manual or a technician’s advice for the post-assembly recheck interval.

Ready for delivery? See the RH20 at €899 →

Delivery and setup FAQ

Bottom line

A careful first hour protects a purchase far better than an exciting first speed run. Document delivery, use the correct manual, treat the folding latch and brakes as safety-critical, and complete a controlled low-power ride followed by a recheck. That process cannot guarantee fault-free ownership, but it catches the problems most worth finding before normal use.

Research basis: current APEFOX RH20 product page and included-items list, the APEFOX manual library, current XVELO specification and independent RH20 assembly/review coverage. The supplied manual for the delivered batch takes priority.