Lectric Bikes: Worth it? Or Just Hype?
Posted by Putrid-Rooster9187@reddit | ebikes | View on Reddit | 24 comments
So I've finally decided it's time I start riding again... but being over 400-lbs, and over 50-y/o, there aren't many options out there. Especially if the area you're in is hilly, or your budget looks only big enough to buy groceries.
Thankfully, I've found a deal on one: A Lectric Cargo model.
Just one problem: The price is so low, I'm wondering what's the deal? Is the company in trouble? Are their bikes just not "up to snuff"? I'd sure like to know BEFORE I buy, so I don't wind-up with a lemon, like my dad did with the last new car he bought... in 1980.
Suitable_Voice_5432@reddit
Don’t buy Lectric. Battery died second year and they are asking me to pay for a new $300usd battery. Infuriating.
skynetwins90@reddit
First ever ebike and I love it. I was thinking about getting a cheap ebike from Amazon but a local bike shop had some on sale. I plan on buying some mirrors for it today.
BumblebeeCivil7900@reddit
I have a XP4 extra battery that was purchased by mistake and unable to return. It was never used and I will sell for $250.00 obo. let me know at:
ptwilli24@gmail.com
Away-Revolution2816@reddit
I have bought a few different brands of ebikes including two Lectrics and zero issues with either. They are priced to really grab market share. I think they are the best selling ebike brand in the U.S. They do partner with shops in many areas for repairs. They have helped me with issues that weren't their fault. My next bike will probably be another Lectric just because of their customer service.
Putrid-Rooster9187@reddit (OP)
Well, that's good enough for me...! As long as it's still ride-able if the assist fails for any reason, I'll be happy with it... once I get a comfortable seat & handlebars on it. ;)
Away-Revolution2816@reddit
If you decide on a Lectric message me, I have a referral link that will give you a free accessory. These are the accessories they let you choose from https://lectricebikes.com/collections/referral-rewards?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2FZW7QrKQsLyOtuSpHSM3GbQ2u16GAlL8p49Qwrljlh59SBs_wiey8Q14_aem_66mNlXhq2_PQZCarTjRpxw
Livid-Wrangler543@reddit
Hey, is this deal still going? Does it come with the fast charger option too?
Away-Revolution2816@reddit
Lectric did away with the program.
Putrid-Rooster9187@reddit (OP)
I'll keep it in mind... and hope it works. I don't know what-all I'll need with this bike, but the more I can get as part of the deal... the better!
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
Lectric is one of the largest, if not the largest, ebike brands in the US. There is no reason to think they are struggling financially. They are reportedly profitable but are a private company.
They are a value brand and aggressively cut costs. Their high volume allows them to bring down prices. Along with cost saving measures like offering few color choices. Companies like Velotric and Aventon make more polished bikes. But that doesn't mean that Lectrics are lemons.
Laserdollarz@reddit
I've been seeing loads of posts about day 1 issues on their new xp4. They bought my brand after it went out of business (juiced). I'm worried they're going to neuter the brand and bungle want sort of revival. 💀
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
I really hate how Lectric pushes folding bikes to people who do not even need them and would be better served with fixed frames and normal sized tires. Four of their seven models fold. A fifth is a 20" cargo bike. A sixth is a fat tire bike. ONLY ONE model out of seven is a fixed frame with normal tires.
Putrid-Rooster9187@reddit (OP)
Believe me: I wish they offered a fixed-frame bike that'd hold my weight. Especially a fat tire 26"! But the only one rated high enough is the XPedition 2.0 Stratus, which is "collapsible"... which is something I might need for my building's elevator... so I haven't much choice.
Laserdollarz@reddit
I hear "folding bike" and all I can think is "engineered failure point"
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
Cutting a bike in two is just not a good thing to do unless you need the capability. Although I did buy a Velotric Fold 1 Lite just because the $549 sale price was too good to pass up. They did a great job on the hinge and managed to mostly eliminate vibrations and play on smooth pavement. Enough so that I'm not worried about riding it on road.
Huge contrast to a folding Rad bike I had which exhibited a tremendous amount of play in the steering column even when the retention nut was perfectly adjusted. Felt nerve wracking on downhills. That said, folding bikes are still compromised and even the best ones reveal themselves on rough terrain.
musashi_san@reddit
I'm also over 50, overweight and looking for the right bike. I don't know the answer to your question but want to share a few words of caution about jumping on a two wheel bike at the start of your fitness and recovery adventure. We are one injury away from being sidelined for a year or two and not being able to ride at all. I encourage you to consider an e-trike, at least initially, to build strength, cardio conditioning, and balance.
Putrid-Rooster9187@reddit (OP)
I've considered the same... but a few things keep me from it:
-It might not clear the door frames of the building in which I live... including the elevator's.
-Because I must use an elevator (where I live) I doubt I could easily get it into it's small car, or through it's narrow door. Especially if I had to do so with it unfolded... because of how limited my [unassisted] mobility is. Sure, I could stand-up for a bit... but I fear not long. And the bike itself would be acting as a mobility assistive device--such as a walker--when I'm not genuinely riding it.
And (this is a big one)...
-Trikes can't track where bikes can.
I'm afraid for me, it's an e-bike or stay in the wheelchair... and I'm tired of taking forever to get anywhere.
So....
BodSmith54321@reddit
Max passenger weight is 335 lbs.
Putrid-Rooster9187@reddit (OP)
What I'm looking at is the XPedition 2.0 Stratus--their cargo-bike model. It's rated at 450-lbs, so I feel safe about my weight on it... it's just the seat I don't like. I guess I can do like I did on my last mountain bike: A long banana seat. With a short sissy bar, it'll be easy to swing my leg over, and [as a whole] supports my weight better. Add a pair of moderately raised handlebars to ride in a somewhat "upright" position, and it'll be very comfortable--and easy to power-pedal up inclines--while cruising around town. And (perhaps) the county. ;)
HoldLeather3612@reddit
https://youtu.be/FctHZR2hWp8?si=eABkIiptjDJGh8-h
I dont remember if i watched this one or not, but I feel his reviews are honest.
BodSmith54321@reddit
This guy is the comic relief of bike reviews
HoldLeather3612@reddit
Cool, are yours better?
SynapticDampener@reddit
Hype. Good bikes but too overpriced
TikiTribble@reddit
They’re legitimate, one of the major “online” brands.
Mandatory Caution: even these “major” online brands can have disadvantages, chiefly that many bike shops refuse to work on them. They often use “unbranded” or generic Chinese components, not ideal . Typically the company stands behind them and will ship you replacements if needed. You may be on your own for installation.
We have a Lectric (trike) in the extended family which has worked well. Frankly it’s darn good for the price, very pleased. While the bike itself came assembled, we still had a lot of stuff to attach and tighten and so forth.
Aventon is another major online brand you may want to check out for your needs. Also, you may have read this review but just in case: https://electricbikereport.com/lectric-xpedition-2-review/