My wife and I discussed it, while we have the funding, we’re getting an eBike. Part of the reason is that we want to minimize miles on the new Kia Soul and reduce emissions as much as possible. We’re starting off with one and possibly getting another at a later date. After some research I went with one from Lectric, specifically the Lectric Xpress 750 Step Through. What a terrible name. This will also be used so my wife can go on some of my rides with me.
I had a few requirements- I wanted an eBike that didn’t fold, was step through, had a decent range at all settings, had good reviews, uses regular sized bike tires and tubes, had an integrated rack or came with a rack, and the ability to hold a small load of groceries. I looked at Aventon, they fulfilled almost all of the requirements. Rad Power Bikes had everything I wanted. HeyBikes had a lot of what I wanted but I hated the looks. Finally I took a look at Lectric Bikes.
All in all I reject Rad Power because of their issues with customer service. I do have 4 service centers close by. Aventon’s customer service kicked Rad’s ass. HeyBikes are ugly.
The Lectric bike had everything I wanted and excellent customer service and warrantee follow up. I was a little nervous because they started out at Walmart. My brother has one of their early folders sold through Walmart and it was solid and fun to ride.
Anyway, the goal for this is to ride the eBike until it is too cold in the AM and PM to do so.
I’m currently putting together a tool kit. It will have a multi tool, a pump, spare tubes and patches, and tools specific to the bike. I’m looking at baskets and assorted items I need to house everything on the bike. I’ve got a basket and panniers that will do for grocery shopping so that’s kinda great.
This has been a long way coming. I’ve wanted to explore bike commuting since I had my first 2 stroke bike engine, and frankly the range is getting closer to what those 2 stroke bikes got on a gallon- this bike has a range of 60+ miles on the lowest assist setting and 20 on the highest. While my old 2 stroke got about 90 miles per fill with pedaling and less with no pedaling. I’m interested in how strong the motor is, the claim is that these 750 watt motors can do 28mph at top speed but it’s choked down to 20mph. The manual has instructions on turning off the choke so I can access the full speed capabilities.
All this said, I need to install a hitch on the back of the kia and invest in a rack rated to hold the weight of 2 ebikes.