The Lectric XPedition2, a $1,399 electric cargo bike, proved to be the best electric bicycle I have ever tested, offering a 450lb payload capacity and a range of up to 60 miles on a single charge. During testing, it simplified grocery shopping and urban exploration, reducing the need for driving.
Design and key specifications
The XPedition2 is a "longtail" bike, featuring a large rear rack for hauling cargo, library books, or even children. It ships as a Class 2 ebike, with a top speed of 20 mph and a throttle, but includes instructions to boost speed to 28 mph in states that allow it. Key specs include a 750-watt motor, a 630 watt-hour battery, and a payload capacity of 450lb.
The test bike was light blue with black accents, featuring a 36.7in cargo rack and two removable cushions for kids. The handlebars are adjustable from 41in to 44in in height, and the bike includes a front light, brake light, and turn signal indicators. Weighing 65lb without cargo, it is heavier than standard bikes and may not fit on a bike rack.
Riding experience and range testing
With eight gears and five pedal-assist levels, the bike offers a customizable ride. Level one feels like a regular bike, while level five is akin to riding a moped. The bike can carry up to 450lb, but heavy loads and constant assist reduce range to 20-30 miles; lighter loads and lower assist levels can extend it to 60 miles or more.
In real-world tests, the bike lasted 50 miles on a single charge during a week of short trips, and 49 miles on a longer ride with minimal cargo. Fully loaded for a camping trip, it lasted about 40 miles with assist level three. The battery takes six to 10 hours to charge, though a $149 fast charger reduces that to three or four hours, and a spare battery costs $425.
Minor drawbacks and overall verdict
The kickstand was difficult to use, requiring practice to lift the heavy bike, and the display interface was not immediately intuitive. The bike's weight can be limiting for transport, but it was manageable with a helper. Despite these quibbles, the XPedition2 is a solid, well-engineered bike that encourages driving less and spending more time outdoors.
