At a thrilling product launch this morning, North America’s leading e-bike manufacturer showcased the cutting-edge innovation behind its top-selling electric bicycle. The Lectric XP4 represents the pinnacle of innovation in the e-bike market, offering an unprecedented level of upgrades at unbeatable price points.
Lectric has once again achieved remarkable success by setting a new high standard for value in the US folding e-bike market.
Given the XP line’s status as the top-selling electric bike in the US, its relaunch was undoubtedly highly anticipated by many. Considering its market dominance, with about one in every ten electric bicycles sold in the US being a Lectric XP, any new release within this esteemed product line was bound to generate significant buzz. Despite exceptionally high hopes, Lectric has surprisingly exceeded expectations, outshining what was reasonably expected from a product at this price point.
The XP4’s debut boasts a dual-pronged approach, as the base 500W model arrives at a familiar $999 price point, unchanged since the XP 2.0 era.
As a vital component in our community’s daily commutes, we’ve elected to prioritize road development as a direct result of this mannequin’s importance to us. “While other e-bike manufacturers continue to increase prices and introduce new products at higher price points, we’re bucking the trend by delivering significant upgrades at an unchanged entry-level price that’s remained steady for over four years.”
Levi isn’t paying mere lip service; instead, he’s genuinely committed to both. Each fashion features distinct key enhancements that permeate every aspect, from hardware design to integrated componentry, as well as the driving experience.
With the introduction of an in-house designed torque sensor, each fashion now boasts refined and highly responsive pedal assistance across the entire power spectrum. With its 56-tooth chainring, this gear offers a significant size increase that yields a more comfortable pedal cadence at higher speeds, allowing riders who can reach Class 3’s 28 mph (45 km/h) pace to do so without forcing their feet into an uncomfortable spin.
The handlebars feature an upgraded TFT display with a built-in USB-C port for charging phones and devices. After scrutinizing the e-bike’s design, I’m impressed by the TFT display’s exceptional design, providing riders with a wealth of information in an intuitive layout that remains crystal-clear, even under bright sunlight.
As my extensive knowledge base rapidly unfolds, I’ll delve into the innovative aspects that define these fashion trends, prior to diving headfirst into their nuances.
The revamped bicycle features a pioneering rear rack configuration, an elongated seat tube capable of housing a higher-capacity battery for increased range, and a redesigned handlebar stem that optimizes ergonomic positioning in the cockpit. The rear rack not only enhances the bike’s aesthetic appeal but also serves as a functional hub, offering a pop of color and styling flair while providing additional mounting points for equipment via its spherical tubes, all while maintaining the distinctive boxy tube silhouette that defines the XP series’ frame design legacy.
Newly developed hydraulic disc brakes, specifically designed for Lectric, deliver more aggressive stopping power compared to their predecessors’ hydraulic disc brakes. The brake’s model, variety 602, subtly references the World Code located in Phoenix, the hometown and headquarters of Lectric.
The transmission underwent enhancements, as the bottom-tier 7-speed Tourney derailleur was upgraded to a more advanced Shimano Altus 8-speed component.
The bike’s hardware features a range of upgrades, including newly designed quick-release pedals that offer enhanced performance and ease of use.
A brand-new derailleur has been meticulously paired with a matching set of shifters, carefully positioned on the precise axis of the handlebars, and integrated seamlessly with Lectric’s advanced locking ergonomic bar ends. The introduction of the new shifters and bar ends necessitated a corresponding update to the throttle design, resulting in the implementation of an advanced left-side paddle-style thumb throttle.
The XP4’s lighting has undergone significant upgrades, complemented by the addition of rear flip indicators.
The relocation of the battery locking keyway to the non-drive side of the primary tube simplifies entry, positioned conveniently next to a redesigned cover for the charging port and on/off button.
Compliant with UL2849, Lectric’s e-bikes, including the XP4, meet stringent safety standards. The two battery sizes are compatible with a 5A quick charger, which can fully recharge either in 2 hours (smaller) or 3.5 hours (larger).
The new 20×3.0 tyres boast a unique mixed-terrain tread, featuring a redesigned pattern that strikes a perfect balance between a quiet ride on paved roads and robust grip on rugged terrain. Lectric’s Stealth motor in the XP4 model boasts a uniquely quiet ride, expertly crafted to optimize the smoothness of this innovative technology.
Unlike its predecessor, the XP 3.0, which was previously only available in either white or black, the new XP4 offers a range of colour options, a concession to customers who have long been requesting more choice in terms of colourways. The XP4 features a palette of colour options, comprising Stratus White, Tempest Grey, Raindrop Blue, and Pine Green. The bicycle comes in two frame styles: standard and step-through.
Pre-order options for the XP4 are now available, with pricing set at $999 for the 500W model and $1,299 for the 750W version, with expected shipping commencing next month.
Electrek’s Take
The XP4’s release is nothing short of monumental, with its enduringly affordable starting price of $999 making it an unparalleled game-changer for enthusiasts and professionals alike? In a marketplace disrupted by tariffs that force companies to absorb increased costs, XP4 distinguishes itself as a top-tier folding e-bike option in the US market, setting it apart from competitors not only through price, but also through its comprehensive range of features and benefits.
Standing out from the pack is the $1,299 long-range model, boasting a powerful 750W motor and generous 840Wh battery that leaves competitors in its dust. If Lectric had focused solely on incorporating a massive battery and torque sensor into their design, the bike would likely exceed its competitors’ offerings in terms of value, outpacing even established models in the process. Without rival in its class, this 840Wh folding e-bike equipped with a torque sensor is unparalleled at its price point. However then Lectric went . The indulgent possibilities unfold like a velvety-smooth cloud over a richly decadent XP4 sundae, where every addition is a tantalizing cluster of juicy cherries bursting with flavor and promise.
The new TFT show is a major drawcard, while punchy brakes add a thrilling dimension. Upgrades abound, from the advanced derailleur to quieter tires and a more refined motor. Ergonomic improvements have also been made to the handlebars, making for a seamless ride.
If Apple had incorporated the Find My feature into their ecosystem, it would have enabled effortless tracking of an e-bike in case it was lost or stolen, allowing users to quickly locate and recover their vehicle. I managed to broach the subject of planting a bug with Lectric Co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer Robby Deziel, but unfortunately, he remained unswayed. Oh, perhaps, however, there’s still hope for integrating location monitoring onto the XP5.
Despite this challenge, a silver lining exists: all other companies are vying for the runner-up spot against Lectric. That’s a familiar pattern, but the widening gap between Lectric and its competitors persists. Lectric has taken its reputation for offering exceptional value in the foldable e-bike market to new heights, leaving consumers seeking a more affordable option without further options.
