For years, the XP series has been the top choice for anyone wondering, “Which ebike should I buy?” Known for being versatile, foldable, and budget-friendly, it earned its reputation as the ultimate all-rounder. With the introduction of the Lectric XP 4, Lectric has now divided its flagship into two exciting options: a robust 750W long-range version and the upgraded classic 500W model.
This leaves many riders wondering: do you need to spend the extra $300 for more power? After putting the Lectric XP 4 500W version through its paces, we think the answer for most people is a resounding no. The standard XP 4 isn’t just a refresh; it’s a thoughtful evolution that refines the ride in almost every way. The real question is whether these upgrades are enough to keep it at the top of the sales charts. Let’s dive in.
If you’re already thinking the XP 4 is the bike for you, using our affiliate link is a great way to check the latest pricing and sales on Lectric’s website, and it’s also a great way to support reviews like this one.
Lectric XP 4 500W YouTube Review: See It In Action!
Lectric is primarily an online company, so unless you know someone who owns an XP 4 or come across one by chance, you won’t be able to test ride it before purchasing. Our detailed review of the XP 4 500W provides everything you need to know—explore the updates, see how it handles both on and off-road, and get a thorough breakdown of its pros and cons.
A Guided Tour of the XP 4’s Best Upgrades
In developing the XP 4, Lectric went beyond minor updates, focusing on a more complete evolution of the bike’s design and components to create a more refined riding experience.
A Quieter Motor and a More Natural Ride
At the heart of the XP 4 is Lectric’s new M24 Stealth Motor, a 500W powerhouse that can peak higher when you need a boost. But the most significant upgrade is the new PWR+ torque sensor. So, what does this mean for your ride? It means the bike feels like an extension of you. Pedal lightly, and you get a gentle nudge. Push harder for a hill, and the bike responds instantly with more power. It’s a smooth, intuitive system that makes the bike feel much more premium and predictable, and it’s noticeably quieter than older models.
Smarter Design, Simpler Experience
The XP 4 is powered by a 48V, 10.4Ah battery Certified to UL 2271. For added safety, the bike’s entire electrical system is also Certified to UL 2849. If you’re new to the topic, our article on UL Certification is worth a read. While the battery size is familiar, Lectric fixed some of the biggest annoyances of previous models. The key now goes into a convenient, easy-to-reach slot, and you no longer have to leave it in the bike while riding. The frame has also been tweaked for comfort, with a new stem angle that allows for a more relaxed, upright riding posture.
A Display That’s User Friendly
Say goodbye to decoding cryptic “P-settings.” The new 3.5” color TFT display is a welcome change. It’s bright, easy to read in the sun, and navigating the settings is as simple as using your phone. Whether you want to adjust the top speed, change how the pedal assist feels, or set a sleep timer, it’s all handled in a clear, straightforward menu. It means less time fiddling and more time riding.
Custom Parts That Solve Real Problems
Lectric even designed custom components to address common rider feedback. The new Star Union hydraulic brakes are powerful and responsive, giving you confident stopping power. They even have “602” on the levers—a cool nod to Lectric’s Arizona area code. To combat the “hamster wheel” effect of pedaling furiously at high speeds, they added a huge 56-tooth chainring. Now, pedaling at 28 mph feels natural and actually helps you maintain speed. Even the new quick-release pedals are wider and more comfortable, helping to make the bike one inch slimmer when folded.
Frame, Sizing, and Comfort: Finding Your Fit
Choosing the right frame is about more than just looks; it’s about accessibility and how the bike feels to ride every day. For the 500W model, Lectric keeps the choices simple and classic. You can opt for the incredibly accessible Step-Thru frame in Stratus White, which makes getting on and off the bike effortless, or the traditional Step-Over frame in Tempest Gray for a sportier profile. It’s worth noting that if you spring for the more powerful 750W version, you’ll unlock a wider palette of color options.
Beyond the frame style, Lectric redesigned the bike’s geometry with comfort as a top priority. A new stem angle brings the handlebars closer to the rider, eliminating that feeling of having to stretch or reach. This creates a relaxed, upright riding position that keeps your back straight and reduces strain on your shoulders and wrists. It’s a subtle but significant change that makes longer rides much more enjoyable.
For a detailed breakdown of the measurements, including standover height and rider height range, see the geometry and dimensions table below.
Lectric XP 4 500W | Full Spec Sheet
A bike’s true performance is best showcased on the road. However, this specs sheet reveals Lectric’s deliberate design choices to overhaul the riding experience, all while maintaining the same $999 price point. Explore the complete details of the XP 4 500W in the full spec sheet below.
Performance: What It’s Like to Ride the XP 4 500W
The XP 4 500W’s performance is defined by a customizable and highly responsive powertrain. Our real-world testing focused on how the new components translate to the riding experience.
The Pedaling Experience
The combination of the new PWR+ torque sensor, upgraded 8-speed Shimano Altus derailleur, and a massive 56-tooth chainring fundamentally changes how the bike feels. The torque sensor is a significant improvement over the old cadence sensor, providing power that feels directly proportional to your effort. Whether you want a light assist for a relaxed cruise or a strong boost for a workout, the bike responds intuitively. The larger chainring effectively solves the “ghost pedaling” issue of previous models, allowing you to pedal comfortably even at top speeds. Shifting through the Shimano gears is crisp and smooth, making the entire pedaling experience feel much more premium.
Throttle and Assist Modes
The XP 4’s new display makes it easy to customize the throttle’s behavior. You can choose to have the full 20 mph available instantly, or you can tie the throttle’s power to your selected pedal assist level for more controlled acceleration. This versatility is a key advantage, especially when it comes to using cruise control. Because the cruise control feature can be awkward to engage while simultaneously trying to modulate the thumb throttle, linking the throttle to a pedal assist level makes it much easier to set a consistent speed.
Hill Climbing Test
To evaluate the bike’s power on inclines, we performed a test with a 200lb rider. Using the throttle alone, the XP 4 held a steady speed of 9-10 mph up a steep hill, demonstrating the motor’s solid capability. When pedal assist was engaged, the torque sensor rewarded rider effort, allowing for a progressively faster ascent. This consistent power delivery, even under load, is a noticeable improvement that makes the bike highly capable for daily commuting on hilly terrain.
Off-Road Performance
50mm Travel | Preload and Lockout
The XP 4 is also perfectly happy to leave the pavement. Its new hybrid tires are a clever compromise: smooth and quiet on the street, with knobby edges that provide confident grip on gravel or dirt paths. The front suspension fork does a good job soaking up bumps, and with an IP-65 rating for water and dust resistance, you don’t have to worry about getting caught in a little rain. If you’re curious, understanding IP ratings can help demystify what this means for all-weather riding.
The Direct-to-Consumer Deal
So, what’s the catch? How is a bike this good only $999? Lectric sells directly to you online, bypassing traditional bike shops and the markups that come with them. This saves you money and is backed by a company known for great customer service and a massive, helpful community of owners on the Lectric XP Owner’s page.
The trade-off is that you’ll have to do some minor assembly yourself, and you won’t have a local bike shop for in-person support. For most, it’s a worthy compromise for the incredible value.
Pros and Cons of the Lectric XP 4 500W
After extensive testing, we’ve broken down the key strengths and weaknesses of the Lectric XP 4 to help you decide if it’s the right ebike for you.
The Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Lectric XP 4 500W?
The Lectric XP 4 500W is a testament to thoughtful design and refinement. It takes everything that made the original a bestseller and improves it in ways that truly matter. For the vast majority of riders, this 500W version is the clear winner. It offers plenty of power for hills and daily commuting while delivering all the fantastic new upgrades.
While the more powerful 750W version exists for those who absolutely need more power and range, we will soon be publishing a detailed comparison of the Step-Over 500W and Step-Thru 750W in Raindrop Blue to help you make your choice.
If you’re a first-time ebike buyer, an RVer looking for the perfect travel companion, or just someone who wants one versatile ebike that can handle anything you throw at it, the Lectric XP 4 500W is, once again, one of the easiest recommendations we can make.
If this review helped you make a decision, supporting our publication by using our affiliate link when you purchase is greatly appreciated.
