Lectric XPedition review: A cargo ebike that can replace your automobile
2023 is the year of cargo ebikes and Lectric released an affordable option that helps you transport more than just yourself
Hyperdrive Hits
5/5 Medals of Yavin: Highly recommended for those who need a bike that can move cargo, kids, pets, and more
Dual battery option for long range and power
Loads of accessories for optimal cargo carrying
Affordable price, high quality, and hydraulic brakes
While I spent a lot of time riding many foldable ebikes in 2022, it looks like 2023 is focused on cargo bikes. For those who live in cities and the suburbs, the Lectric XPedition may be able to replace an automobile for running errands, carrying kids to and from school, transporting pets, and commuting.
The XPedition builds upon Lectric’s existing product lines with some of the same classic features beloved by its customers and new functions that make it one of the most compelling cargo ebikes available today.
For the past couple of months I have been trucking up and down hills, blasting along on the roads with relatives in tow, picking up pizza, running errands, commuting to and from work, and just enjoying the beauty of the Pacific Northwest from the seat of the Lectric XPedition.
Rating:
As explained in my palmsolo’s Refresh Rating Scale post, I’m awarding the Lectric XPedition five (5) Medals of Yavin. It’s the most affordable cargo ebikes available today while offering a dual-battery option, high quality craftsmanship, advanced power management system, hydraulic disc brakes, and more.
The Good and the Bad
It’s pretty rare for me to not find something that can be improved with a product and for things like electric bikes the pros and cons can depend on your riding needs.
Pros
Affordable price
Dual battery option
High-powered pedal assist and throttle
Rear rack capable of holding 300 pounds, full cargo capacity of 450 pounds
Folding handlebars and pedals for minimizing storage
Hydraulic disc brakes
Cons
Heavy at 75 pounds
One charger to share between two batteries
Experiences
The last couple of Lectric bikes that I tested were foldable and I had a blast riding both of those bikes. The Lectric XPedition offers a different experience with the core greatness of Lectric still integrated into the bike. The handlebars and pedals fold, but the bike frame does not fold.
There is a handle in the center of the frame to help you lift the bike, but it’s quite heavy at 75 pounds for the dual battery model. A sturdy folding dual leg kickstand is used to hold up the bike when not being ridden. One cool feature of the kickstand is the ability to simply move the bike forward to start riding. This is helpful when you have children, pets, or cargo loaded up on the back of the bike.
The typical simple pedal assist control module and large number display is present to help you easily control the bike. In addition, the handy twist throttle on the right side is present with ergonomic hand grips.
The model I tested has dual batteries and Lectric provides an intelligent battery control system where both batteries are drained at the same time so you can stay at higher voltage longer and enjoy long range with the bike. Even though the bike is heavy and I had it loaded up with gear, it was able to help propel me up my very steep neighborhood hill at a speed of 8-9 mph.
The hydraulic brakes help you stop quickly, as shown in my video. This is an excellent safety feature since you can load up this bike with lots of cargo and cruising along at 20 mph with a full load can be a safety hazard if you cannot stop quickly.
Given the length between the front sprocket and rear hub, Lectric incorporates a chain idler pulley to help keep tension on the chain. This is the first time I’ve seen a bike with this feature and it works well at keeping everything on track.
With an ebike optimized for cargo, it’s great to see Lectric offer a host of accessories. I was able to check out the Orbitor, pannier bags, and Essentials Package. Other available options include Thule child seats, Plus 1 chair, bar for holding on from the back rack, large seat, pet trailer, front racks, and more.
The Essentials Package is something you should consider by default if you plan to carry a passenger. It includes two rear seat cushions and two running boards to easily set your feet down on the side of the rear wheel. Lectric has Plexi Glass fitted along each side of the rear wheel so people don’t get shoelaces or feet caught in the wheel or motor.
The Orbitor can be used to carry kids or secure packages to the rear rack. It’s a multi-purpose attachment that retails for $120.
The XL pannier bags can hold up to 66 liters of cargo, which is excellent for a visit to the grocery store. I’ve also seen photos of people carrying camping gear, which seems like a nice option for the summer. The pannier bags attach securely to the rear rack with several Velcro straps, as well as a bottom strap that fits over the running boards.
Specifications
Specifications alone don’t mean much, but they are useful for comparing similar devices and checking that you are getting value for your money.
Frame: 6000 series aluminum alloy
Motor: 750W rear hub, peak 1310W, 85Nm torque
Bike weight: 75 pounds
Bike capacity: 450 pounds, 330 pounds for rider
Pedal assist: Five levels with throttle
Max speed and range: 20 mph and up to 150 miles (closer to 100 for a rider of my weight and typical assist level)
Transmission: Shimano 7-speed
Brakes: Hydraulic disk brakes, 180mm rotors
Tires: 20 x 3 inch puncture resistant street tires
Colors: Fog Gray
Bottom Line
I’ve been riding ebikes for more than five years and they have become a part of my daily life. Bikes have replaced my car for my commute to and from the commuter train and cargo ebikes like the Lectric XPedition can even take on more roles. It’s a powerful ebike that can let you leave the car behind for even more errands. If you live in a city or the suburbs, the XPedition may be the only vehicle you need.
The Lectric XPedition is a big, heavy bike, but that’s actually a good thing when you are hauling lots of cargo, people, or pets and want the bike to be prominent on the road. Like other Lectric bikes, the XPedition is built well, easy to use, and reliable. It’s been a joy to ride and I love the challenge of finding ways to use the bike instead of a car.