Lectric XP 3.0 Review: More Power and Carrying Capacity but Same Price

The Lectric XP 3.0 is the product of Lectric eBikes, which began in Phoenix, Arizona when two lifelong friends, Levi Conlow and Robby Deziel, decided to bring an affordable electric bike to market.

Sensing a gap in the market for affordable & high-quality e-bikes, they designed their first bike, the Lectric XP. It won them awards and garnered positive Lectric XP bike reviews thanks to its ingenious portable folding design and high-quality craftsmanship.

Lectric XP was named the Best Folding Electric Fat Tire Bike of 2020 by the Electric Bike Review Top Choice Awards.

In addition to selling affordable and high-quality e-bikes, the brand focuses on customer service as one of its main priorities. The entire team is based in the United States and offers free shipping across the country.

Lectric XP 2.0 vs. XP 3.0: Newest Upgrades

After the success of the original Lectric XP 2.0, Lectric eBikes decided to take what they’d learned and create the XP 3.0.

The Lectric XP 3.0’s upgrades signify the company’s willingness to learn and create the best product possible for their consumers rather than focus on profit or popularity.

The most notable update to this new model is the integrated rack, increasing the rear carrying capacity from 75 to 150lbs and making this bike capable of carrying an extra passenger. In addition, the motor has a passenger mode that limits you to 10mph. 

Other minor modifications to the new Lectric XP include:

• 180mm disc brake rotors to increase stopping power. 
• 10mm extra fork travel to smooth out bumpy terrain
• Softer grips and a sporty saddle
• A switch to 11-28t from 14-28t for greater pedaling efficiency 

Another significant change for the XP 3.0 is the extra motor power, jumping up to 55Nm of torque from 35Nm, and the higher amp controller. This extra kick makes it easier to climb hills and provides faster acceleration. 

If you’re looking for a more refined experience, make sure to also check out our review of the Lectric ONE e-bike with a Pinion gearbox and Gates Carbon Belt drive.

Lectric XP 3.0 Full Review

The Lectric XP 3.0 is the American brand’s third iteration of its flagship bike.

The 3.0 has undergone several upgrades to make it the impressive bike we have today. The 3.0 is perfect for urban riders, commuters, or those who need to be space conscious when storing their bikes. Several Lectric eBike reviews have commented on how well it rides, considering its affordability.

It features a 500W rear hub motor with five assistance levels and tops out at a max speed of either 20mph or 28mph depending on the class option selected. It’s easy to fold, making it ideal for journeys on public transport or stowing away in your office or apartment.

The company has released two versions of its 3.0 model;  the XP 3.0 and the 3.0 Long-Range. Each model has a step-over or step-through frame choice, available in either black or white. They are advertised at $1,099 and $1,299 full-price, making good on the brand’s promise to keep their bikes affordable.

Let’s dive into the tech specs and intricacies of the Lectric XP 3.0 below.

500W Geared Hub Motor

The Lectric eBike XP 3.0 has a 500W geared hub motor to power the assistance. The new model has 55Nm of torque (20Nm more than before). 

It includes five levels of assistance which you can control using the head unit or the handlebar adjuster. Hub motors are ultra-low maintenance options usually found on less expensive e-bikes. In addition, they save weight compared to mid-drive motors.

Importantly, a geared hub motor is better for riding up hills and more efficient than direct drive hub motors.

Top Speed of 20mph or 28mph

The beauty of the Lectric XP eBike is the ability to choose which e-bike class it is. The classification depends on the motor’s size and the maximum speed it will help you reach. For example, a Class 2 e-bike can assist at speeds up to 20mph, and a Class 3 e-bike can assist up to 28mph. Check your local legislation to determine which class you can use legally on the roads.

How to change the speed limit of the Lectric XP eBike?

• Press the plus and minus buttons simultaneously on the control pad until “P1” appears on the screen
• Using the plus or minus buttons, go to setting “P08”
• Change the value from 20 to 28
• Press plus and minus buttons until the main screen appears again
• Power off the bike by holding the power button to save the changes

Weight and Payload Capacity

• The total Lectric XP 3.0 weight is 64lbs.
• Rack weight capacity: 150lbs.
• Max weight capacity: 330lbs.

The weight of 64lbs includes the 7lbs battery and the fully built bike. This high weight can make it difficult for some riders to lift and carry the bike. 

Lectric has advised that the maximum weight capacity is 330lbs, including the rider, a second passenger, and any luggage they may carry. The new frame-integrated rear rack can support 150lbs, making it a sturdy option for those who want to ride with a friend or partner or load the bike with cargo. 

Lectric XP 3.0 Electronics

500Wh or 672Wh Lithium-Ion Battery

The Lectric XP 3.0 battery is a 48V x 10.4Ah or 14Ah Lithium-Ion unit, with a max range of 45 miles or 65 miles on the XP 3.0 Long-Range model.

The charge time (from a dead battery) takes 4-6 hours to reach full charge. The battery is integrated inside the bike’s frame, which makes the bike look sleek and aesthetically pleasing from afar.

Front and Rear Lights

The Lectric XP 3.0 comes equipped with integrated front and rear lights. You can control them through the display pad by pressing and holding the plus button. Using them is strongly advised in low light or dark conditions. Check the regulations in your area, as some regions deem it a legal requirement to have them activated.

LCD Display

The Lectric XP 3.0 comes equipped with the same LCD head unit, situated in the center of the handlebars for easy access to the various controls and to read your ride metrics and battery level. 

• Speed – Average, Current, Top
• Assistance level
• Ride telemetry
• Battery level
• Brightness

Drivetrain and Brakes

The XP 3.0 comes equipped with 180mm-rotor mechanical disc brakes, an improvement on the previous generation’s 160mm rotors. These increase stopping power and durability thanks to improved heat dissipation. 

Disc brakes can provide easier modulation than rim brakes and are often the best choice given the extra weight of an e-bike. Mechanical disc brakes can be a little fiddly to adjust than hydraulics, but one benefit is the lack of fluid and hydraulic system maintenance!

Lectric has continued with a Shimano 7-speed drivetrain for the XP 3.0. However, they increased the range of gears by swapping the 14-28t cassette for an 11-28t setup, making it easier to find the perfect gear on different gradients. 

The gears are easily controlled using the shifter attached to the handlebars, promoting a one-hand operation. The seven-speed drivetrain is easy to use and requires regular maintenance like any other bike. 

Frame and Geometry

You can fold the XP 3.0 in a few simple steps. First, the bike folds in both the center of the frame and the handlebars. In addition, you can fold in the pedals to create an even more streamlined appearance.

When unfolded, the bike’s dimensions are 66″ x 25″ x 47″. When folded, the bike is incredibly compact with the dimensions 37″ x 18″ x 28″. It’s small enough to fit into most car trunks. 

Lectric XP is a great space-saving bike for those living in apartments or traveling on public transport. However, it can be heavy to lift for some people.

• Unfolded dimensions: 66 x 25 x 47 inches
• Folded dimensions: 37 x 18 x 28 inches

There are two frame options available to choose from. The original frame design with a raised top tube and a step-through model with a low top tube that makes it easier to mount and dismount, which is ideal for senior riders. 

Wheels and Tires

The Lectric XP 3.0 e-bike uses puncture-resistant Lectric 20″ x 3″ tires.

The original version used even wider tires (4″), but as part of the upgrade to the XP 2.0, the brand changed to a slightly narrower profile tire which it maintained for the 3.0. The width is still wide enough to absorb much of the road buzz but without the added rolling resistance of really wide tires.

Lectric claims the tires increase the bike’s agility by improving the handling and lowering the rolling resistance while riding.

Lectric XP Accessories

There are several Lectric XP 3.0 bike accessories available to buy. Most of these were available with the previous XP 2.0, but there are also two new options: Thule’s Yepp child’s seat or a Passenger Package for taking along an adult. In addition, you can add a 172-lux Elite Headlight. The passenger package includes the following:

• A plush passenger seat that sits over the rear rack
• A handlebar with an adjustable mount
• Pegs for feet

All other accessories work with the XP 3.0 original frame or step-thru models. In addition, Lectric offers other packages that can enhance your cycling experience, as well as parts and merchandise so you can rep the brand off the bike.

We’ve listed some of the other accessories you can purchase below:

Comfort Package

For those that want to put plenty of miles on their bike, the comfort package includes a Lectric XP suspension seat post. It has 40mm of travel to soak up the bumps in the road and comes with a giant seat for extra comfort.

Cargo Package

The cargo package is ideal for those looking to carry more on their XP 3.0. It includes a front rack, a small, and a large basket for all your transporting needs.

Bike Lock

Their extra strong lock is ideal for locking your bike up at the store or whenever it’s out of sight. Simply mount it to the side of the seat tube facing the rear fender when not used.

Water-Resistant Pannier Bags

The Lectric water-resistant pannier bags are perfect for those who need more luggage on their bikes. Whether you’re using them for your groceries or your tools, know they’ll be protected from the elements with these hard-wearing bags.

Shop All Accessories

Safety & Precautions

Lectric XP 3.0 should be serviced after the first 100 miles or five full battery charge cycles (whichever comes first). This can be done at any certified bike shop or by a reputable mechanic.

Maintenance tips for Lectric XP 3.0

• Keep your bike clean and dry to avoid rust.
• Keep bike components tightened to the torque specifications.
• Regularly lubricate moving parts.
• Ensure the bike tires are always inflated to the pressure shown on the side of the tire.
• Keep the battery charged when not in use for an extended period (Charging once a month is fine).
• Your bike needs to be serviced at regular intervals.
• Take your bike to the first service after the wear-in period

FAQs

Our Verdict: Is Lectric XP 3.0 a Good eBike?

The Lectric XP was developed to be an affordable but high-quality folding e-bike. Lectric has undoubtedly achieved this. The XP 3.0 sits around the $1,100 mark and offers some excellent specifications, including a range of up to 45 or 65 miles. The third iteration, the XP 3.0, is the best yet and shows how the company listens to customer feedback to produce the best bike possible.

Whether you’re a commuter, a leisure rider, or looking for a better way to get around town, the Lectric XP 3.0 is a fantastic bike that can be folded away for transportation and storage when not in use.

Buy on LectricEbikes.com

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About the Author

Rebecca Bland

Based in the UK, Rebecca began cycling as a means to get to work and hasn’t looked back. Now combining her passions and working as a freelance cycling writer, she enjoys road cycling, time trialing, and mountain biking. She also blogs on rebeccabland.com She specializes in writing about cycling brands, bicycle reviews, and best-of reviews.