Lectric XP 23

It may not be the fanciest or highest-specced folding electric bike on the market, but by golly, it’s hard to deny the popularity and value of the Lectric XP 3.0.

The Electric Bike Report staff is always watching for e-bike sightings out in the wild. We like to know what people are riding and why – and the Lectric XP series is arguably our most frequent sighting. It’s popular for very good reasons: Not only is it remarkably cheap (in terms of price, not feel) at just about $1,000, it’s actually a terrifically fun e-bike!

This is Lectric’s third iteration of their XP folding fat tire e-bike which was released in 2022, but it’s had upgrades in 2023. The bike comes with a 500W motor, a suspension fork, and a 48V, 10.4Ah battery that has a pretty decent range (for its size). Toss in recent additions like a rack that can support 150 lbs (and a buddy, with the right accessory package), revamped contact points that are softer and more comfortable, and most recently, hydraulic disk brakes on 180mm rotors.

That spec sheet on its own is quite value packed at this price, but we’re not recognizing this bike for its components — we like it for its ride. The XP 3.0 is a solid-feeling folding bike that reminds me of those old Honda three-wheelers popular back in the late 80’s. It’s not super fast or overly nimble, but it romps around like no other and feels like it won’t let you down.

The Lectric XP 3.0 stole our hearts for its sheer affordability and fun factor. To be clear: There are more premium folding bikes that cater to different needs, but this one seems like the people’s champion for affordable folding e-bikes. Of all the e-bikes listed on this best electric bikes list, there may not be a more affordable and versatile one of the bunch.

 PRO’S

• It’s hard to find as full-featured an e-bike at such an affordable price
• The XP 3.0 has a terrific motor that provides spirited acceleration and a very fun ride
• As folding bikes go, this shrinks to a very manageable package, making it easy to stow away once folded
• Having such a large LCD screen makes it easy to read and serves up all the helpful ride data
• Not only is this an affordable e-bike, it includes a number of features we think of as premium, like front suspension, rack, fenders and lights
• The 3-in. tires are knobby and give the XP 3.0 the ability to take in some off-road riding

CON’S

• Moving a 60-lb. e-bike isn’t easy, even when folded; we suggest removing the battery before picking it up
• We wish the key didn’t have to remain in the bike to operate it since it’s under the frame and easy to forget