Lectric Bike Review
Become the Coolest Dude on the Block with This High-Tech Electric Bike
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City boy I am, cyclist I am not.
During my 15-year stint of NYC living, you wouldn’t have caught me on any type of bike. Despite the addition of dedicated lanes and Hudson River-lined scenic pathways, I always felt safer inside a vehicle and/or walking and not at mercy of erratic drivers and/or my own riding abilities.
But after moving to Chicago, a city that prides itself on access to miles of lake-adjacent bike trails and slower-paced living, I had no other choice but to invest in a new mode of transportation. And when I’m forced to do something new (and often uncomfortable), my motto has always been a resounding “go big or go home.” This led to the purchase of a Lectric XP4 long-range utility ebike.
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While one quick Google search yields hundreds of electric bikes, each touting different perks and specs, I ultimately landed on this company and this model for a myriad of reasons. Here is my review.
Standout Features of the Lectric XP4
It’s almost as if the Lectric XP4 should be classified as an automobile, rather than a bike. Not only does it accelerate up to a whopping (and sometimes scary) 28 mph, but its standard battery life will also last up to 85 miles. That means you’ll never run the risk of getting stranded during longer adventures (and, if you do, you’ve got good ol’ fashioned pedals as backup).
The bike itself also folds in half for easy storage, making it compact and convenient for coveted space in a garage or even a car trunk for weekend mountain treks.
A detachable TFT color display can volley between intuitive riding modes, including Eco, Tour, Sport, Sport+, and Turbo that can easily accommodate different terrains and preferred speeds.
And perhaps best of all, Lectric bikes come with a one-year limited warranty that covers most components. This is reassuring for anyone convinced that they’ll find a way to break something new and valuable.
Unboxing the Lectric XP4
While the box itself was large and cumbersome, setup was a breeze. The company invested in producing easy-to-follow, DIY videos (including a first ride instruction on YouTube) that walk newbs through the process of making it ready to ride.
The bike itself requires no at-home assembly — only a few tightening of screws and attaching parts like pedals. Also, packaging is biodegradable and easily recyclable to curb environmental impact.
Pros of the Lectric XP4
Can a bike be sexy? All signs point to yes, or at least that’s how I feel when I pull up next to someone in this pine green beauty. The design is sleek and sturdy, which means I also purchased a second bike lock out of fear of theft.
In addition to the aforementioned features, here are a handful of other specs that I have really come to appreciate:
- A thumb throttle to easily change riding modes
- Keyless riding! You only need a key to remove the battery from the bike frame.
- A high-tech torque sensor that seamlessly adjusts based on my pedaling output
- Killer brakes. I once had to stop short on a slick road, assuming that I’d go flying. The 602 hydraulic brakes paired with 180 mm rotors kept me and the bike upright while preventing a potentially serious collision.
- A comfortable saddle. Far too often, I quickly develop a sore taint area (TMI, I know) in spin classes and my rear end has experienced no issues.
Cons of the Lectric XP4
Of course, nothing in life is perfect, including Beyoncé, a fresh-baked chocolate chip cookie, and an ice-cold beer after a long day of garden work. While able to conveniently fold in half, the bike still weighs 62 pounds. Try hitting your shin upon its center bar while opening it and I can assure you that it’s not a great feeling.
A few weeks into riding, the air tube on my tire severed while filling it with air. While likely the cause of a faulty piece or riding with low pressure, it was repaired and replaced in practically no time at all. That said, any instance of having to lug around a broken bike, especially when you don’t own a car, is a nuisance.
Final Thoughts
Is a bike for everyone? My answer, at least a couple months ago, would have been a no. But after making the investment, I’ve come to realize that a bike is wise for practically everyone.
You don’t need to enter an Iron Man competition, but it's something that will take you from place to place while also burning calories. And if the health benefits aren’t a concern, turn on that motor and let the bike do all the work for you.
Lectric XP4 750: $1,813 $1,299 at LectricBikes.com
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