Whether it’s delivering goods or carrying kids around, the XPedition 2.0 cargo e-bike is capable of hauling it all. The bike has a large rack integrated into the aluminum frame, contributing to its 83-pound weight with the battery installed. Lectric says that this long-wheelbase e-bike can haul a maximum payload of 450 pounds, which includes the rider, cargo, and any attachments.
Power comes from a 750-watt rear hub-mounted motor that’s connected to a 48-volt, 13 amp-hour (624 watt hours) battery. This single battery gives the XPedition 2.0 power for up to 60 miles on a single charge, depending on how much and how often you use the assistance. We got a distance of a little over 17 miles with a combination of hills and flats at full assistance at the highest level. A second battery (1,248 watt hours) or dual long-range batteries (1,680 watt hours) can be added to boost range. The main battery is mounted to the back of the seat tube, while the secondary one is mounted to the rack.
Like other cargo e-bikes, the XPedition 2.0 only comes in one size, but Lectric says it will fit riders between 4’11” and 6’5” by adjusting the seat position and stem angle.
The eight-speed drivetrain has an 11-32 rear cassette and a single 52-tooth front chainring. Shifting is performed by a thumb trigger gear selector on the right side of the handlebars. According to Lectric, the top assist speed when operating as a Class 2 e-bike (as we tested it) is 20 mph, regardless of the battery selection. The bike can be unlocked to operate as a Class 3 bike, giving it a 28 mph top speed.
There are five levels of pedal assistance, using a torque-based system. This means that the assistance is based on how much effort the rider is putting out. Less power is used on flat ground, and more is used when going up hills. It can be somewhat awkward to select among the assistance levels using the small controller on the handlebars.
The bike has a thumb throttle on the left-hand side of the handlebars, which accelerates the bike up to its top speed without having to pedal.
A rectangular color display with a USB-C port mounted on top of the stem displays battery life, the level of power assistance, speed, and distance traveled
To improve ride comfort, a dual-spring suspension fork with 50mm of travel comes standard. Riders can adjust the absorption levels depending on the surface conditions, or lock the shock out for use on hard, smooth surfaces to prevent bouncing (and preserve energy). The padded saddle, which is narrower than ones found on other cargo bikes, also helps smooth out the ride somewhat.
The bike features 20-inch tall, 2.5-inch wide tires that help soften the ride somewhat. They come pre-filled with a liquid sealant to quickly fill punctures. Hydraulic disc brakes with 180 mm rotors front and rear are used to slow the bike.
Standard features include a headlight, a brake-activated taillight, integrated turn signals, and fenders. The XPedition also features a foldable stem that, combined with the height-adjustable seat, makes the bike narrower and shorter, which allows it to be stored in compact spaces.
Riders who plan to use the bike instead of a car for commuting, or for around-town chores and travel, will appreciate the numerous attachment points on the front of the head tube, the forks, and the rear of the bike for hanging bike bags. Cargo baskets can be mounted to the front under the handlebars and on the cargo rack itself. Owners who carry children can mount two small seats on the rack, and there are small removable running boards on which rear passengers can rest their feet.
The pedals are relatively grippy, so there is less of a need to worry about slipping off of one when pedaling vigorously. Similar to other big, heavy cargo e-bikes, it takes some strength and effort to rock the bike onto the double-leg fork kickstand.
