Lectric XP 2.0 vs Lectric XPremium vs. Lectric XP Lite: What’s the difference and which to buy?
When it comes to bang-for-your-buck electric bicycles, it’s hard to beat the Phoenix-based company Lectric eBikes. While it may not have the fancy components of the big-name companies or the sprawling reach of the industry top dogs, there’s a reason the company has such a dedicated following: It offers good e-bikes at great prices. Having just released two new e-bikes on both the higher and lower ends of the market, plus offering a great mid-tier option, we’re going to break down the differences between the Lectric XP 2.0, the Lectric XP Lite and the company’s newest model, the Lectric XPremium.
How to choose your e-bike
All three models maintain Lectric’s signature design ethos: just enough of what you need, nothing you don’t, and a killer price.
The Lectric XP LITE is priced at 799, the Lectric XP 2.0 is a bit heftier on the wallet at 999, and the Lectric XP Premium with its higher performance and better parts is priced at 1,799.
But while they all share a great balance of features and cost compared to the industry, there are also a pile of differences to understand. The bikes offer three different motors, three different batteries, and a wide range of components and designs meant for different types of riders.
Let’s start with the Lectric XP Lite and work our way up the model line. And if you’d like to see a brief video version of this post to check out the three models in action, I’ve got that for you below.
Strong mechanical disc brakes, built in LED lighting, and an easy-to-read LCD display round out the list of included gear, meaning you’re still getting a lot for your hard-earned dough.
The Lectric XP Lite is best for riders that want a good e-bike but on a budget, and don’t mind giving up features like multiple gears and suspension to get there. It’s also best for someone looking for a lighter-weight folding e-bike or that wants it to fit in a more compact area like a smaller car trunk.
For just 200 more though, you may want to check out the XP 2.0 model that we’ll discuss next next.
Lectric XP 2.0 e-bike
The Lectric XP 2.0 is something of the original classic e-bike from Lectric eBikes. Technically it is the second version, having replaced the 1.0 version by adding a number of upgrades like suspension, new tire size, stronger rack, more rugged frame, etc. But just keep in mind that this is the model that people think of when they refer to the original Lectric XP.
The XP 2.0 is priced at 999, making it just a 200 bump over the XP LITE. You give up the lightweight feature of the LITE since the XP 2.0 is about 20 lb heavier at 65 lb (29 kg). But you definitely get a lot more.
Lectric XP 2.0 Step-Through (left) and standard step-over model (right)
The XP 2.0 has a more powerful rear hub motor rated up to 800W and that can power it up to a faster top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h) on pedal assist. On throttle though, it will still only reach 20 mph (32 km/h) as required by law for Class 2 e-bikes. The more powerful motor also makes the XP 2.0 a better hill climber than the LITE.
Speaking of hills, the inclusion a 7-speed drivetrain on the XP 2.0 will also help riders in hilly areas that want to downshift for more torque when helping to pedal up a steep hill.
Other design improvements include an oil suspension fork up front combined with a pair of 3″ tires that offer a nice compromise between comfortable all-terrain fat tires and narrower urban tires. At 3″, you get the best of both worlds with a reasonably nimble ride that still feels like you’re on a higher end suspension bike.
The bike also includes a strong rear rack that is technically rated for around 70 lb. Fenders and lights are also included, meaning you’re getting a ton of nice parts for just 999.
The XP 2.0 is probably my main recommendation for anyone looking at a high-value hub motor e-bike and that doesn’t mind the somewhat heavier weight compared to the LITE.
Lectric XPremium – the king of the hill!
With the launch of the XPremium late last month, Lectric eBikes entered into much higher level competition with fancier mid-drive electric bikes.
Mid-drive motors, which house the motor by the pedals instead of in the rear wheel, are a more elegant and torquier way to power an electric bike. They allow the rider to power the wheel through the bike’s gears, letting you shift your way to either mega torque in lower gears or high speed in the upper gears.
The Lectric XPremium uses a mid-drive motor produced by a company called Truckrun, which is a good quality but lesser known manufacturer that can be found on several fancier electric bike models priced at over 3,000.
The XPremium ostensibly gets similar power and speed ratings compared to the XP 2.0, namely the peak of 800W and top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h), but the higher quality motor gives riders more freedom in how they get there, plus the ability to have a much nicer pedal assist experience.
That’s because the motor uses a torque sensor instead of a cadence sensor to engage the pedal assist, meaning the power comes on much smoother and more naturally. For anyone who really wants to pedal and experience an intuitive pedal assist support, this is the model for you.
The bike also comes with two batteries as standard equipment (there’s no up-charge for the second battery, unlike almost every other e-bike company that charge for the second battery option). With a real-world 50 miles (80 km) of range on throttle-only riding or 100 miles (160 km) of range on pedal assist, the Lectric XPremium offers seriously long riding possibilities, or just the ability to recharge less frequently.
Other nice parts include the hydraulic disc brakes for stronger stopping and reduced maintenance, upgraded LED lighting for more powerful night time illumination, oil suspension fork for softer rides, 4″ fat tires for the best all-terrain performance, a strong rear rack, and included fenders. The bikes also come with Slime anti-flat puncture resistance formula in the tires, which can save you a massive headache of fixing a flat tire on the side of the road.
The 1,799 price may seem like a big jump from the 999 XP 2.0, but it’s absolutely worth it. Not only is this a nicer motor and over twice the battery, but you get those higher quality parts like the hydraulic disc brakes too. And remember, you’d probably pay at least 1,000 more to get similar features and performance from other brands.
What about accessories?
When Lectric eBikes first started out, they had very few accessories to choose from. But times have changed and now you’ll find a wide range of useful gear to add to your bike.
Some of my favorites include the cargo package and the comfort package.
The first adds some serious hauling capacity to the bike in the form of front and rear baskets. They basically turn your e-bike into a cargo bike, and would be great for anyone that needs to do some serious grocery shopping or wants to use their e-bike for commercial use like a delivery rider.
The comfort package swaps out the standard saddle and seat post for a wider and cushier saddle on a suspension seat post. To be honest, the included base-level saddle is already a great piece of gear – it’s not like those cheap and hard base-level saddles that many low-cost electric bikes come with. But the comfort saddle is just one step higher when it comes to comfort. And that suspension seat post also adds some nice cushioning to the rear of the bike for harsh bumps that the front suspension fork won’t help with.
I haven’t tried Lectric’s pannier bags yet, but they look like a solid option. I have used the folding lock, and I really like the way that it integrates into the XP 2.0’s frame to hide it out of the way when you’re not using it but still accessible when you need it.
The takeaway
There are a lot of great e-bikes out there. I’ve ridden tons of them and I recommend plenty of brands outside of Lectric for all sorts of uses and rider types. But Lectric has gone above and beyond when it comes to bang-for-your-buck, and these three models demonstrate that.
If you want higher-grade bicycle components, ultra-lightweight frames, or rear suspension, you’ll want to look elsewhere. Lectric eBikes doesn’t cater to the higher-end crowd like that. But what it does offer is good-quality gear that may not make it to top-shelf status, but that will last for years with a bit of care and attention, and that is backed by a local customer support team that is ready to help.
Hopefully this guide has helped you learn a bit more about the different models and what makes each one tick. Ride safe out there and may your battery be forever charged!
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Lectric XP Lite Review
The Lectric XP Lite is a lighter, more compact addition to the brand’s line of electric folding bikes.
The impressive thing about this new bike is the price, coming in at just 899, making it the cheapest Lectric bike and one of the best value options on the market.
As the name suggests, the XP Lite strips back the non-essentials for an ultra-convenient bike with the same reliability expected of the brand and their flagship XP 2.0.
The primary selling point of the XP Lite is that it’s lightweight for convenient storage, carrying, and transport. However, the punchy electronics and relaxed geometry contribute to a fun and comfortable ride quality.
This Lectric XP Lite review will discuss the bike’s spec list, describe the standout components, and provide a final verdict on its quality and value to help you decide if it’s the right choice.
A compact and lightweight folding e-bike that feels and performs above its cheap price tag.
- Very neat folded package.
- 2.4-inch treaded tires for comfort and traction.
- Respectable range for the price.
- Four different color options.
- Full accessory compatibility.
- Low-maintenance build.
- Rack and fenders not included.
- Low power.
- Single-speed drivetrain limits performance.
Lectric XP Lite Key Features
The XP Lite is a compact, lightweight, and agile folding bike which would make an excellent urban companion, and the low price doesn’t reflect the functionality and performance. The folding mechanism is intuitive, and the electronics and componentry are made to last.
The XP Lite excels in less demanding urban environments. Plush 2.4″ tires, a relaxed ride position, and saddle suspension make it comfortable to ride on bumpy roads. In addition, if you need more from your XP Lite, you can combine it with various accessories from Lectric’s online store.
Lectric XP Lite Quick Specs
- Frame: Foldable aluminum alloy
- Motor: 300W geared hub (720W peak), throttle operated,
- Max speed: 20mph
- Battery: 374Wh frame-integrated
- Range: 40-mile range
- Charge time: 4-6 hour charge
- Fork: Rigid aluminum
- Tires: Chaoyang or CST 20 x 2.4″
- Drivetrain: Single-speed
- Brakes: Mechanical discs, 160mm rotors
- Weight: 46lbs
- Max capacity: 275lbs
Lectric XP Lite Full Review
The XP Lite is around 20lbs lighter than the XP 2.0 and folds up into a smaller package, making it ideal for those who struggle with heavy folding e-bikes. The trade-off for this weight saving is lower power, a single-speed drivetrain, and fewer accessories and extras.
Nonetheless, the primary appeal of a folding e-bike is the convenience and portability, and the XP Lite delivers this at one of the best you’ll find. So now, let’s take a closer look at the individual components and the most important features.
Lightweight Folding Aluminum Frame and Rigid Fork
As mentioned, the primary appeal of this electric bike is the lightweight and compact folding frame. At 46lbs, this bike is much easier to lift and carry than the 64lb XP 2.0 or 75lb XPremium. In addition, Lectric uses the same aesthetic and integration as their flagship XP 2.0, just smaller and lighter.
It measures just 36L x 16W x 27H” when folded, one of the smallest folding e-bikes around. Unfortunately, Lectric replaced the shock-absorbing coil suspension fork with a rigid fork to save weight.
Punchy Motor and Battery
The electronics on the XP Lite don’t stand out but are perfectly adequate given the cost. The motor chosen is a 300W geared hub with a top speed of 20mph using either throttle mode or one of the five levels of pedal assistance. However, heavier riders may struggle to reach this maximum speed on throttle alone.
This hub motor pairs with a small 374Wh battery that can deliver max ranges of around 40 miles and charges in 4-6 hours. This battery is cleverly integrated under the downtube. In addition, you can charge the battery without removing it or replace it with a spare pre-charged battery.
Low-Maintenance Single-Speed Drivetrain and Mechanical Disc Brakes
The single-speed drivetrain chosen by Lectric has its pros and cons. Without gearing options, the performance of the XP Lite when climbing hills and riding downhill is limited. However, the benefit of this setup is the significant reduction in maintenance requirements, saving money and time in the long run.
Mechanical disc brakes with 160mm rotors are also perfectly adequate for the sub-1,000 price range. They provide consistent performance and stopping power for a light urban folding bike, but they are more prone to degradation than hydraulic ones.
Versatile 2.4″ Knobby Tires
The XP Lite runs smaller tires than the XP 2.0 and XPremium, providing further weight savings and improving maneuverability. Nonetheless, 2.4″ tires are pretty wide for an urban bicycle, being the typical tire width for many mountain bikes.
In addition, the large knobs boost traction on loose off-road surfaces and in wet weather.
Accessories and Extras
Lectric designed this model to be streamlined and straightforward, but riders have the option to add components from the online store like a front rack, rear rack, and other cargo carrying accessories.
The XP Lite comes with the same backlit LCD computer seen across the range. This sleek unit conveniently provides live trip metrics and battery information on the handlebars. Finally, the bike comes with integrated LED lights on the front and rear to ensure safety while riding in low light.
Who Should Buy Lectric XP Lite?
Lectric’s XP Lite is an excellent choice for any rider who needs a lightweight folding e-bike and has a tight budget.
It has a durable build with reliable components and comfortable ride quality despite the low price. Of course, the ‘lite’ design sacrifices power, but that is a worthy trade-off if you prioritize portability over performance.
If you require more versatility from the XP Lite, you can purchase stainless-steel fenders or a 100 Carry Package. This bundle includes a front rack, rear rack, and pannier bags.
We think urban e-bikers who value convenience and comfort and don’t put extreme demands on their bicycles should seriously consider the new XP Lite.
Other Lectric Models To Consider
The XP Lite is the cheapest of the three folding electric bikes available from Lectric. So if you need a high-performance bike or one with more accessories and components out of the box, consider one of the other higher-end Lectric e-bikes.
Verdict: Is the XP Lite Worth the Money?
At just 899, we think this bike is a very competitive option. over, considering the excellent rating of the original XP 2.0, we’re confident the quality and durability will shine through over time.
While this bike won’t win any awards for power and performance, the low weight, agility, and comfort offer a great user experience.
In summary, we’re happy to see this new offering from Lectric that responds to customer feedback about the heavier XP 2.0. So if you’re in the market for a cheap and light folding e-bike, you’ll struggle to find a better value option than the XP Lite.
Lectric XP Lite Review—An Attractive and Affordable Folding E-Bike
Read any Lectric XP Lite review, and you’ll see the same boring info about climate and tax-free write-offs, but let’s be serious; e-bike consumers are only interested in one thing; is the Lectric XP Lite worth the money?
With an affordable price of 899.00, the Lectric XP Lite is a bike you should seriously consider. Functional and simple, this bike is the perfect solution for busy riders and one of the best folding electric bikes for people living in tiny apartments.
Is the Lectric XP Lite worth the money? I think so.
Quick Specs
- Price: 899.00
- Class: Class 2 capable
- Motor: 300W ( 720W Peak) Electric Motor
- Battery: Removeable Lithium-ion battery
- Range: 40 miles on a single charge
- Charge time: 4-6 hours
- Tires: Chaoyang 2.6″ x 20″ or CST 2.4″ x 20″
- Drivetrain: Single-speed
- Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes
Lectric XP Lite Pros and Cons
Frame, Geometry, and Sizing
Many brands promise the world when it comes to frame design. Luckily for you, the Lectric XP Lite actually delivers on its promise. The Lectric XP Lite uses high-quality materials and shares the same frame design as its counterpart, the Lectric XP Lite 2.0. The frame is practical and most importantly, stylish.
As the name suggests, the Lectric XP Lite is light, very light. Weighing 46 lbs, it’s 18lbs lighter compared to the XP 2.0. The bike is comfortable, easy to handle, and perfect for smaller-sized people.
If you have a small apartment or car, chances are you’re probably cramped for space. The Lectric XP Lite is quite simply one of the smallest e-bikes on the market, and guess what? It’s foldable. Folding away to a tiny 36 L x 16 W x 27 H inches, it’s straightforward to transport and even easier to store.
Lectric XP Lite Motor and Battery
When purchasing an e-bike, most people view the battery and the motor as the most important components. The Lectric XP Lite has an impressive 48V battery which is unusual, especially at the affordable price of 899.
expensive e-bikes offer riders a 36V battery; so although you’re paying more money, you’re getting less bang for your buck. If you love high speeds, you’ll love the Lectric XP Lite because it can cruise at speeds of 20 mph using the pedal assist or throttle.
The Lectric XP Lite battery produces 300W at the lower end and a whopping 720W at the higher end.
The feature I love about the Lectric XP Lite is the hidden lithium-ion battery, which makes for a sleek and stylish design. Remarkably, a single charge can power your ride for 40 miles, which provides peace of mind, especially on longer rides.
The fully equipped pedal assist allows riders to choose from five levels, making the Lectric XP Lite perfect for experienced and beginner cyclists.
Components
The Lectric XP Lite does have one feature that could be better, and that’s the single-speed drivetrain. Now with that said, the bike comes with a powerful 48V battery that provides more than enough capacity for you to attack the steepest hills.
Front suspension is not an option on the Lectric XP Lite, but that’s to be expected on an entry-level bike. However, the tires are decently wide, so the ride is quite comfy. To help smoothen the ride feel further, you can purchase a suspension seat-post which is an easy and affordable option.
To be honest, though, unless you do a lot of off-road cycling, the ride on the Lectric XP Lite is comfortable enough. All that aside, the components offer excellent value for money, especially if you’re looking to buy your first entry-level e-bike.
That said, if you’re worried that XP Lite will not meet your needs, we recommend also reading our Lectric XP 3.0 and XPremium reviews, as these are more powerful and better-equipped models.
Lectric XP Lite Shipping and Assembly
Buying bikes online can be a daunting task, especially with all the hidden costs, and one of those nasty hidden costs is shipping and handling.
Lectric prides itself on its customer service, giving the buyer peace of mind the brand will do everything possible to solve the issue. The customer service staff are also US-based, so contacting the company is simple and convenient.
Now, here comes the best part; every bike that leaves the Lectric factory is fully-assembled and ships FREE. All bikes include a one-year warranty, and really the only thing you’ll need to do is pump up your tires.
Just to be safe, I would suggest taking the bike to your local bike shop just for a final safety check before you head out onto the open roads.
Our Verdict: Ride or Pass?
As an experienced cyclist, I’ve reviewed hundreds of bikes, and in many cases, it’s hard to make a clear decision, but not with the Lectric XP Lite.
The Lectric XP Lite battery packs an impressive 48V, considerably better than more expensive e-bikes. The disc brakes give the rider peace of mind, and the wide tires make it perfect for riding in all weather conditions.
The bike is functional, fun, and stylish and comes in four colors, arctic white, midnight black, electric blue, and our favorite sandstorm.
Functionality is second to none, and the bike folds away easily, allowing you to transport and store it safely. The lightweight frame also makes it effortless for even the smallest rider to pack the bike in the car.
At 899, it’s tough to find a better bike, especially for that price. So, if you’re after an e-bike from a reputable brand, then the Lectric XP Lite is for you.
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Review of Lectric XP Lite
Lectric XP Lite offers much more than you would expect at the sub-900 price point. At that level, it can be difficult to find a nice road bike. But in the Lectric XP Lite, you will get a folding e-bike with 2.4” tires, an LCD display, and a 48v battery with up to 40 miles of range.
In this Lectric XP Lite review, we’re going to tell you all about the Lectric XP Lite and who it’s designed for.
With its lightweight frame and host of features, you’d expect the XP Lite to cost a lot more than it actually does.
For this Lectric XP Lite review, we’re going to go into detail about one of the lightest and most affordable folding e-bike: the Lectric XP Lite.
Main Specs
The Lectric XP Lite is a true standout in the e-bike market. You can’t find any other 48V e-bikes at this price point, making the XP Lite one of the most affordable e-bikes. Its folding frame weighs just 46 lbs including the removable battery which can power the bike up to 20mph. With a twist throttle, the Lectric XP Lite is a Class 2 e-bike with a handful of valuable features, as well as the ability to fold on the go.
Here are some of the highlights of the Lectric XP Lite, a powerful, lightweight, and affordable folding e-bike.
- Motor: 300W (720W peak) rear hub, Class 2, with 5 pedal-assist levels
- Battery: 48v 7.8ah lithium ion
- Range: 40 mile range, 15 miles with throttle only
- Charge time: 4-6 hours
- Top speed: 20mph
- Weight capacity: 275 lbs (payload) and 55 lbs (rear rack)
- Bike weight: 46 lbs. with 7 lb. battery
- Drivetrain: single-speed
- Brakes: 160mm mechanical disc brakes
- Tires: Chaoyang or CST 2.4” x 20” tires
- Accessories: heads-up LCD display, integrated front and rear lights, external charging port, removable battery, kickstand
- Price: 899.99
Frame
Lectric bikes used almost the same design for the XP Lite as their widely-popular XP 3.0, though with a few significant changes.
Firstly, the XP Lite is lighter weight – hence the name – coming in at just 46 lbs and making it one of the lightest folding e-bikes. Second, the XP Lite uses slimmer 2.4” Chaoyang or CST tires rather than the fat tires on the XP 3.0.
This sacrifices a bit of off-road capability and overall comfort, but it also increases handling and cornering speed, reduces weight, and creates a smaller frame when the bike is folded and packed away.
The Lectric XP Lite measures just 35” x 18” x 27.5” when folded, making it one of the lightest and smallest folding e-bikes.
This makes it even more impressive that the XP Lite houses a powerful 48v battery. The entire frame folds almost right down the middle, which makes it easy to pack the frame and carry it into the office, up the stairs, or onto the train.
Because of its smaller and lightweight design, the Lectric XP Lite has a relatively low payload capacity of 275 lbs making it suited for smaller riders and little additional weight. However, 275 lbs is still plenty for most people, especially when you consider the XP Lite’s intended use, and that is commuting rather than hauling 50 lbs of groceries.
Components
One of the biggest sticking points of the Lectric XP Lite is its single-speed drivetrain. This means that you won’t be able to shift gears, which can be hard to adjust to on hilly terrain. However, the 48v motor provides plenty of power to crest those hills, though the pedaling (or lack thereof) may feel awkward.
This is one of the small changes that add up to make the Lectric XP Lite the lightest and cheapest folding e-bike. With both pedal assist and twist throttle, you won’t get stuck on any hills, even if you only have a single gear.
Lectric XP Lite does not have a front suspension like many other folding e-bikes, including the Lectric XP 3.0. Coupled with skinnier tires, that means that the Lectric XP Lite has a slightly rougher ride.
But thankfully, this will only be an issue on very bumpy pavement or off-road trails. A suspension seatpost is a simple and affordable add-on that you can use with the XP Lite to help smoothen out the ride.
Despite the modest price of 899.99, the Lectric XP Lite has many of the same premium features that you will find on high-end e-bikes.
This includes the heads-up LCD display, integrated front and rear lights, kickstand, mechanical disc brakes with 160mm rotors, and IP-65 rated electrical components which ensure water and dust resistance.
Motor and Battery
Looking at the bike, it’s hard to say that this is an electric bike. The battery is hidden (but removable).
As we’ve mentioned, one of the standout features of the Lectric XP Lite is its 48v battery which is nearly impossible to find at this price point. For 900, most e-bikes are stuck on 36v batteries which produce significantly less power than 48v batteries. Even with a 48v battery that produces 300W (720W peak), the Lectric XP Lite can still motor up to 20mph using either pedal assist or the throttle.
The Lectric XP Lite has five different pedal assist levels, providing a range of 15-40 miles.
Level 1 provides the longest range at a speed of 6-7mph, while Level 5 can take you up to 15 miles at 17-20mph. Using the throttle only, you can get an impressive amount of distance out of the XP Lite, going up to 15 miles at 20 mph – that is more than enough power, range, and options to get you through your daily commute.
Compared to the Lectric XP 3.0 and its 48V, the Lectric XP Lite is only marginally slower and with a shorter range. Specifically, the XP 3.0 has an upper range of 45 miles (or 65, depending on the battery) versus the XP Lite’s 40 miles and provides 500W (1000W peak) versus the XP Lite’s 300W.
In this Lectric XP Lite review, we’ve learned that the XP Lite is a Class 2 e-bike with a top speed of 20mph. The entire battery is removable, and there is an external charging port located on the downtube.
There are even interchangeable spare batteries that can be removed or installed in seconds, doubling your range in any case. This is the simple and easy solution to forgetting about range concerns on the Lectric XP Lite.
Consider also: Lectric XPremium
Final Verdict
Lectric XP Lite is one of the most impressive offerings in the e-bike space. At 899.99, the XP Lite is the most affordable folding e-bike that is also lightweight and fun.
With 2.4” tires, powerful disc brakes, and IP-65 rated components, the XP Lite is designed to be the best commuter e-bike in all-weather conditions. You can also take the bike around town, or load up the additional rear rack with up to 55 lbs. of carrying capacity.
The 48v motor truly makes the Lectric XP Lite stand out, as you cannot find another folding e-bike with this much power at this price point. With a 15-40 miles range, pedal assist and throttle options, and 300W of power, the XP Lite will give you everything you need on the flats and the uphills.
The Lectric XP Lite is safe, fun, and effective – and you can get it all for the low price of 899.99. For beginners in the e-bike market, or for those looking for a cheap electric commuter, the Lectric XP Lite has it all. Best of all, the bike is available in four different colors, so they have something for everyone!