Review: Lectric XPedition 2.0 - The Cargo E-Bike That Delivers on Every Front
Discover the upgraded Lectric XPedition 2.0 cargo e-bike! Enhanced power, massive range options, superior comfort, and incredible value. Your ultimate hauler.
Finding a cargo e-bike that ticks all the boxes—affordability, power, capacity, and rider comfort—can often feel like searching for a unicorn. But every so often, a product comes along that doesn't just meet expectations but reshapes them. The Lectric XPedition 2.0 is one such marvel, an impressive evolution of its already popular predecessor, designed to be the ultimate transportation solution for families, commuters, and anyone looking to haul more with ease. What's truly remarkable? It brings a host of significant upgrades while keeping the accessible starting price that Lectric is known for.
An Evolution in Hauling: What’s New and Improved?
Lectric has clearly been listening to its community. The XPedition 2.0 isn't just a minor refresh; it's a thoughtful redesign that enhances nearly every aspect of the ride. The bike now sports a longer, hydroformed aluminum frame, providing more stability and increased cargo space on its extended rear rack. Rider comfort gets a significant boost with the introduction of a 50mm dual-spring suspension front fork, smoothing out those bumps on city streets and light trails.
Perhaps one of the most exciting developments is the expanded battery capability. Riders can now choose from three UL-certified battery configurations, including a "Mega" dual-battery option for truly epic range. This is paired with a powerful 750W motor that now benefits from a torque sensor and Lectric’s PWR+ programming, delivering smoother, more intuitive power. The drivetrain sees an upgrade to an 8-speed Shimano Altus system with a user-friendly trigger shifter, and a clear color LCD display (now with a USB-C port) keeps all your ride information readily accessible. Even with these substantial improvements, the entry-level price remains an attractive $1,399. Standard inclusions like robust polypropylene fenders, integrated lights with turn signals, and a rear wheel shroud mean this bike is practically ready to roll right out of the box.
Power and Performance: A Ride Transformed
At the heart of the XPedition 2.0 is its potent 750W rear hub motor, which can peak at an impressive 1310-1350 watts and churn out 85Nm of torque. This isn't just raw power; it's intelligently delivered. The inclusion of a torque sensor is a game-changer for the XPedition line. It measures your pedaling effort and provides proportional assistance, making acceleration feel natural and responsive. Combined with Lectric's Pedal Assist Wattage Regulation+ (PWR+) programming, the bike offers a remarkably smooth and controlled ride, whether you're cruising unladen or hauling a heavy load. For those who like to fine-tune, advanced options even allow for multiplier adjustments to the torque sensor's output. Plus, Lectric’s M24 Stealth technology ensures this powerhouse operates more quietly than its predecessor.
The upgraded 8-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain, operated by a crisp trigger shifter, provides a wider gear range than the previous 7-speed setup. This makes tackling hills easier and finding the perfect cadence on flats a breeze. Test results show the XPedition 2.0 can accelerate to its 20 mph throttle-powered maximum in around 7 to 9.9 seconds, and it demonstrates strong performance on inclines, even with a 180-pound rider with two kids on board.
Range for Every Journey: Battery Options to Go the Distance
Lectric understands that "range anxiety" is a real concern, especially for cargo bikes intended for significant use. The XPedition 2.0 addresses this head-on with three UL 2271 certified battery options:
- A single 624Wh battery, offering a solid range for daily errands (estimated up to 75 miles).
- A dual-battery setup totaling 1248Wh for extended adventures (estimated up to 150 miles).
- A "Mega" dual-battery configuration boasting a massive 1680Wh for those who truly want to go the distance (estimated up to an incredible 200-220 miles).
The dual battery system cleverly uses an isolator to drain both batteries simultaneously, keeping the voltage higher for longer, which translates to sustained power output. While the bike comes with a standard 2-amp charger (charging a single 624Wh battery in about 6.5 hours), Lectric also offers an aftermarket 5-amp fast charger that can significantly reduce charging times. It's worth noting that when using dual batteries, each needs to be plugged in separately.
Built to Haul: Unmatched Cargo Capacity and Versatility
This is where the "cargo" in cargo e-bike truly shines. The XPedition 2.0 boasts a total payload capacity of 450 pounds. This includes accommodating riders up to 330 pounds, while the redesigned rear rack can now impressively support up to 300 pounds. An optional front rack can handle an additional 30 pounds.
The rear rack itself is a highlight, now 5 inches longer (approximately 37 inches long, with about 33 inches of usable length due to battery placement) and more versatile than ever. It features integrated pannier rails, allowing you to attach bags without sacrificing the utility of the top platform. There's ample room for two Thule Yepp Maxi child seats, and it’s compatible with Lectric’s new Orbiter 2.0 accessory. The Orbiter 2.0 is fantastic in it's own right, my girls feel much more secure and safe with the cage around them. The 20-inch wheels contribute to a lower center of gravity and rack height, enhancing stability when fully loaded and making the bike surprisingly maneuverable for its size.
Lectric’s ecosystem of accessories is well-designed and reasonably priced. From the XL Cargo Panniers (each capable of holding two grocery bags) to the Orbitor rack with pinch-proof handles and the comfortable Plus One chair for larger children, customizing the XPedition 2.0 to your specific needs is straightforward and enhances its already impressive utility.
Comfort and Convenience: Features That Elevate the Experience
Lectric didn't just focus on power and capacity; rider comfort and convenience are clearly priorities. The Courier 50mm front suspension fork, with preload adjustment and lockout, significantly improves ride quality, absorbing shocks from potholes and uneven surfaces. While some test bikes included a suspension seatpost that occasionally suffered from stiction, the standard telescoping seatpost offers good adjustability.
The bike's geometry, with its longer 54-56 inch wheelbase, contributes to a stable ride. A low step-over height of 21 inches makes mounting and dismounting easy, even when the bike is loaded. Lectric states the bike fits riders from 4'11" to 6'5", as a 6'2" rider I was perfectly comfortable. The cockpit itself is highly adjustable without tools, thanks to a lever on the stem that allows you to change its angle, along with the handlebar's rise and sweep—perfect for households sharing the bike.
The 20" x 2.5" Chao Yang street tires are puncture-resistant, feature reflective sidewalls for visibility, and even come with Slime in the tubes for extra flat protection. The front wheel now uses a quick-release Thru Axle system for secure and precise alignment. The redesigned dual-leg kickstand is beefier, with larger feet that resist sinking into soft ground, providing a stable platform for loading and unloading. Though its rearward placement was noted by testers as sometimes tricky to deploy, its stability is a marked improvement.
Integrated features add to the bike's readiness. Full-wrap polypropylene fenders with a rear shroud keep you clean and protect passengers. The bright Elite Headlight (850 lux output) illuminates your path, while the rear light features a working brake light and, notably, turn signals. Initially, turn signals might seem like a novelty, but on a loaded cargo bike where taking a hand off the handlebars can feel precarious, they prove to be a genuinely useful safety feature. The color LCD display is easy to read, provides key trip information, and includes a handy USB-C port for charging devices on the go.
Assembly: Almost Ready to Roll
Lectric is known for its easy-to-assemble bikes. While the "One-Minute, Tool-Free Assembly" tagline might be a slight exaggeration (unpacking alone takes time), the process is remarkably straightforward. The bike arrives mostly assembled, and resources like Lectric’s step-by-step assembly videos are available for guidance. Given its weight, especially with dual batteries, the stable kickstand is a boon during setup.
The Unbeatable Value Proposition
In a market where cargo e-bikes can command premium prices, the Lectric XPedition 2.0 stands out as an incredible value. Starting at $1,399, it offers a feature set and capability often found on bikes costing significantly more. Its "Best Bang for the Buck" award is well-deserved. The direct-to-consumer model helps keep costs down, and with increasing availability in retail locations like Best Buy, more people can experience Lectric bikes firsthand.
Minor Considerations: A Balanced View
No bike is perfect, and the XPedition 2.0 has a few minor points to consider. The quick-release pedals, a Lectric staple, offer convenience for transport but may not feel as secure as traditional screwed-in pedals for some riders. If you opt for the dual-battery setup, you'll only receive one charger, meaning sequential charging. And while functionally sound, the wiring could be a tad neater for improved aesthetics. The 2-piston hydraulic brakes are effective, but for ultimate stopping power under heavy loads, 4-piston calipers would be a welcome upgrade.
Conclusion: Is the Lectric XPedition 2.0 Your Next Cargo E-Bike?
Absolutely! The Lectric XPedition 2.0 is more than just an upgrade; it’s a thoughtfully engineered cargo e-bike that delivers exceptional performance, versatility, and an impressive array of features at a price point that is hard to beat. Whether you're hauling groceries, taking the kids to school, making deliveries, or simply enjoying the freedom of a capable utility bike, the XPedition 2.0 is ready for the task.
It successfully builds upon the strengths of the original, addressing previous feedback with meaningful improvements like the torque sensor, enhanced suspension, greater cargo capacity, and expanded range options. If you've been on the fence about investing in a cargo e-bike, the Lectric XPedition 2.0 offers an economical and highly compelling way to experience the convenience, joy, and sheer utility these bikes bring to everyday life. It’s a true workhorse that’s also a pleasure to ride.
