If you’ve been following our ride reviews, you already know—we’ve personally tested over 170 personal electric vehicles (PEVs), from budget commuter scooters to high-performance e-bikes. So when they dropped the new Lectric XP4, we were eager to put it through a real-world shakedown.

Here’s our full hands-on breakdown of what makes the XP4 arguably the best value folding e-bike in its class—and where there’s still room for improvement.

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A True Upgrade Without the Price Hike

One of the most refreshing things about the XP4 is that Lectric hasn’t pulled the industry-standard price creep. Despite a stronger motor, better components, and new features, the XP4 starts at just $999 for the base 500W version. The long-range model we tested—featuring a 750W rear hub motor and a 17.5Ah battery—comes in at $1,299.

Given today’s economic landscape and increasing tariffs, that’s impressive.

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Real-World Range and Power Test

We tested the long-range XP4 in full-throttle, no-pedaling mode—Class 3 setting, Turbo assist—to see how far it would go under stress. For reference, I’m 6’3″, 235 lbs, riding into some wind and light hills.

Result: 25.6 miles of throttle-only range.
Not bad, especially since most real-world riders will mix in pedaling. You can realistically expect 30–45 miles with pedal assist, depending on terrain and rider weight.

And when the battery does finally give out, it pedals smoothly like a regular bike—no “walk of shame.”

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Improved Ride Comfort and Ergonomics

If you’ve ridden the XP3, you’ll notice some key differences:

• Torque sensor upgrade: Much smoother and more responsive than the cadence sensor from earlier versions.
• Pedal feel: More natural, less jerky.
• Saddle: Still the most comfortable seat in the game. It’s wider, cushier, and absorbs more shock on long rides.
• Throttle placement: Moved from twist to thumb, which is more standard, but honestly less comfortable over long periods. We preferred the twist throttle on the 3.0.

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Features That Punch Above Their Price

Here’s where Lectric nails the value:

• Class 1, 2, or 3 configuration (with California Class 3 option)
• 28 mph top speed with pedal assist (Class 3)
• Dual-piston hydraulic brakes with 180mm rotors
• Upgraded TFT display—clear in sunlight, menu-adjustable settings, though battery readout could be more granular
• 8-speed Shimano drivetrain (vs. 7-speed on the 3.0)
• Integrated lights, turn signals, and brake lights
• Folding pedals with quick-release for faster trunk loading
• Rear rack rated for 150 lbs—more integrated and stable

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On-Road vs Off-Road Versatility

While the XP4 isn’t a full-blown fat tire adventure bike, the new tires strike a smart balance. Smooth down the center for road efficiency, with knobby edges for light trail grip. Add in the upgraded headlight and you’ve got a true commuter/adventure hybrid.

This is also one of the quietest e-bikes we’ve tested in this class—another nod to the refinement Lectric has brought to the 4.

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Folding + Portability

We’ve tested many folding e-bikes, and they often come with compromises. The XP4 folds cleanly and securely, and the new quick-release pedals eliminate the annoying alignment dance when loading into a car. Total weight is 70 lbs, which is reasonable for a bike this well-equipped.

Bonus: The battery key placement has been moved from underneath the frame to the side—small but smart fix for easier access and better usability.

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What Could Be Better

While the XP4 gets a lot right, it’s not perfect:

• Battery readout only updates in 10% increments. When you’re down to 10%, you won’t know if you’ve got 9% or 2%—a critical difference.
• Thumb throttle is less comfortable on long rides vs. previous twist throttle.
• Plastic fenders feel cheaper than the older metal ones (though they rattle less).
• Throttle disables in California Class 3 mode—a legal requirement, but something to be aware of.

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Final Verdict: Is the XP4 Worth It?

Absolutely.

After testing more than 170 PEVs, I can confidently say the Lectric XP4 is one of the best value folding e-bikes on the market today. It delivers a compelling blend of performance, comfort, features, and price—with genuine improvements over the XP 3.0.

If you can stretch your budget to $1,299, the long-range version with the 750W motor is a no-brainer for larger riders or those facing hills. But even the $999 standard version holds its own.

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