Reconsidering Choices: Reflecting on the Lectric XPremium Electric Bike Experience

There are definitely some positives and negatives to the Lectric XPremium e-bike. Lately, though, the downsides are starting to outweigh the benefits.

I love my Lectric XPremium electric bike for several reasons.

First and foremost, the mid-drive motor is fantastic. The motor is positioned in the middle of the bike, near the bottom bracket or the pedal area. It provides powerful and efficient performance, making my rides smooth and enjoyable. The torque sensor adds to this experience by ensuring the motor accurately responds to my pedalling, giving me the right assistance when needed. I seldom used the throttle, opting to pedal and enjoy the physical activity. I deactivated the throttle after a few months.

I also appreciate the step-through frame, which adds to the bike's accessibility and ease of use. It makes mounting and dismounting the bike effortless. I frequently have difficulties dismounting when riding a "standard bar" bicycle. I often hit the bar, lose my balance, and fall over. I think maybe it’s my age.

The hydraulic disc brakes are a standout feature as well. They provide exceptional stopping power and precise control, giving me peace of mind during my rides, especially when dealing with challenging terrains or unexpected obstacles (like pedestrians in the bike lanes).

The long battery life of the Lectric XPremium is truly impressive. It allows me to go on two-hour bicycle tours without "range anxiety". I can explore new areas, go on longer adventures, and enjoy the ride without worrying about running out of battery power.

Until now, I have completed two round trips of approximately 33 kilometres each from my residence, travelling along the Delaware and Raritan Canal Park Trail using the XPremium bike. The first ride was to a local brewery, and the second one was simply for the joy of it. Following each of these rides, the XPremium displayed that the battery still had approximately 75% charge.

Lastly, I must mention the solid construction of the bike. The XPremium feels like a tank. It feels durable and well-built, giving me confidence in its longevity and performance, which is important when buying a high-quality electric bike.

Overall, the Lectric XPremium has exceeded my expectations with its mid-drive motor, torque sensor, foldable design, step-through frame, hydraulic disc brakes, long battery life, and solid construction. It's a fantastic electric bike that provides an exceptional riding experience.

Bicycle Ride, Delaware & Raritan Canal Park Trail, e-Bike, Griggstown
Griggstown · Sunday 14 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF27mmF2.8 R WR

Butt there are a few things about it that I dislike. First of all, the cable wrap has been a nightmare. I had a damaged rear speed sensor that needed to be replaced, but the mess of cable ties and cable wrap surrounding the cables has made the repair process incredibly difficult. It's frustrating that I might have to pay someone else to repair this.

The foldable design of the bike is another great feature that would make transportation and storage incredibly convenient. But even without batteries, it doesn't fit into my wife's 2013 Acura RDX. Following the tips in this , I removed both batteries, folded the e-bike, and lifted it (oh, my poor back) into the trunk. No matter how I positioned the e-bike, I could not close the trunk.

: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbLrPqCb7L8&t=16s

Another major issue is the weight of the bike. It weighs 34kg, and even with the batteries (6kg) removed, lifting and moving it around is a real challenge. Despite its folding feature, it's still quite heavy to lift into the back of the Acura RDX, making transportation a hassle. This means that my riding adventures are limited to my local area.

This limits my ability to explore trails in other towns, go on adventures in another state, and enjoy rides outside my immediate area. When Bhavna and I visited Matt and Jean in Lewes last summer, I discovered that Cape Henlopen State Park was a haven for birds and other wildlife. There are a lot of biking trails. I imagined myself getting up early and spending the morning riding on those trails and stopping to photograph the birds and other wildlife. But that goal now seems impossible.

We had a great weekend when Bhavna and I visited Matt and Jean in Lewes last summer. I was so excited to learn that Cape Henlopen State Park was a refuge for birds and wildlife. The park has these extensive biking trails too. I had this whole plan in my head of waking up early, hopping on my bike, and cruising on a bicycle along those trails while taking photos of the birds and wildlife. I didn't have the right bicycle or Fujinon lens (the XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR) back then. But now, I finally have the perfect bicycle and lens I need. But now that dream doesn't seem possible anymore.

Furthermore, the suspension on the bike leaves much to be desired. I had a small camera bag in the rear basket, and the poor suspension caused it to bounce out during a ride. Unfortunately, I had left the bag slightly open, and the Fuji X-T3 camera body bounced onto the gravelled trail. It’s frustrating to have such a basic issue with a feature that should be reliable. Fortunately, neither the camera body nor the lens were damaged. They escaped with a few scratches.

Given all these problems, I may have been better off purchasing another bicycle.

Ale Trail Adventure

My recent bicycle adventure from my home near Rocky Hill to Flounder Brewing in Hillsborough relied on the Delaware and Raritan Canal Park Trail.

One of the adventures I had imagined when I bought my Lectric XPremium was a bicycle ride to the Brick Farm Tavern for a pint of Troon Brewing ale. The Brick Farm Tavern is approximately 12 km from home. Apple Maps estimated that the ride would be almost 40 minutes. Regardless of the chosen route, the route included a busy roadway. The most scenic route is along Cherry Valley Road. But it’s also the least desirable route as the narrow roadway has no shoulder or bicycle lane. The next best route is along CR-518. CR-518 is wider and has bicycle lanes but has much more vehicular traffic. I was not comfortable with either route. once I realised how narrow and busy the country roads leading to the Brick Farm Tavern would be, I imagined a new goal. I would ride to Flounder Brewing in Hillsborough.

Flounder Brewing is just over 17 km from my home. Apple Maps only provided two routes with a one-way ride estimate of about one hour. I wanted to avoid busy roadways as much as possible. I followed a route using the Delaware and Raritan Canal Park Trail and residential roads. I chose this route because of my growing familiarity with riding on the Delaware and Raritan Canal Park Trail. My route took me to the Griggstown Causeway, where I encountered my first difficulty.

The Griggstown Causeway connects River Road (CR 533) in Montgomery Township to Canal Road in Franklin Township and crosses the Millstone River, D&R Canal Park and the Delaware and Raritan (D&R) Canal. The Griggstown Causeway is an important transportation route, allowing people to access different parts of the area while providing scenic views of the surrounding waterway.

The Causeway spans the Delaware and Raritan Canal, providing vehicle passage. There is no pedestrian footpath or bicycle lane. The Causeway merges with a one-lane bridge where it crosses the Millstone River. The bridge is quite narrow. The bridge was quite busy this day, with cars waiting in both directions. I was quite nervous about riding the bicycle across. I got off the bicycle and walked across the bridge.

Bicycle Ride, Delaware & Raritan Canal Park Trail, e-Bike, Griggstown
Griggstown · Sunday 14 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF27mmF2.8 R WR

After crossing the bridge, my ride continued through several residential neighbourhoods bordering Montgomery Township and Hillsborough Township. The route led me along some old farm roads in Hillsborough until I reached Amwell Road. Amwell Road is one of the busiest roads in Hillsborough Township.

As I approached the intersection, I signalled my intention to turn left using the proper hand signals. But guess what? A car nearly ran into me. It seemed like the driver had no clue about bicycle hand signals or maybe didn't care. Frustrated and concerned for my safety, I turned left onto Amwell Road and decided to pull over for a moment.

I didn't want to take any chances, so I walked my bicycle for a short distance until I reached Clerico Lane, the entrance to Flounder Brewing. It's a shame that even with proper signalling, some drivers are oblivious to the rules of the road and the safety of cyclists. But hey, I made it to my destination in one piece, ready to enjoy some well-deserved refreshments at Flounder.

I had casually mentioned to the crew at the Flounder tap room that I had ditched my car and got myself an electric bicycle. I had teased them that I'd make the trek from my home to the brewery one day. Well, when I walked in, all sweaty and exhausted, they were pretty excited. I wasted no time and made it clear that I had just "conquered" that ride and that I parched. As a reward, I treated myself to a refreshing glass of Bhavna's favourite brew, the witbier named "White Wedding."

Thousand Helmet, White Wedding Witbier, Flounder Brewing
White Wedding Witbier · Sunday 14 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF27mmF2.8 R WR

Not surprisingly, I enjoyed my first pint quickly and needed another. With a relaxed pace, I settled into Flounder Brewing's delightful outdoor area, slowly sipping my second pint. However, I had to watch the clock as time was ticking away. I wanted to reach home before the sun dipped below the horizon. But I couldn't resist indulging in one more pint before hopping back onto my trusty XPremium for the ride home.

Apple Maps provided the two routes I had looked at. Had I checked Google Maps instead, I would have seen a third possibility. Google Maps showed a route that continued on the Delaware and Raritan (D&R) Canal, past the Griggstown Causeway up to East Millstone Park. The final leg of that route still takes me along Amwell Road. While Amwell Road lacks a designated bicycle lane, it does have a sufficiently wide roadway for sharing with cars, ensuring that my presence on the bicycle would be easily noticeable to drivers. That’ll be my chosen route the next time.

The Delaware and Raritan Canal Park Trail on Two Wheels

I had the most amazing experience on my e-bike. I rode 33km from Rocky Hill to Port Mercer, all along the scenic Delaware and Raritan Canal Park Trail. It was a blast!

I had planned to take my e-bike out for a spin once the weather improved. Cold weather and uncomfortable mornings in early May had made me hesitant to go cycling. However, when I woke up on the weekend and checked the weather, I was relieved to find a wonderful forecast of warmer weather and clear skies. I couldn’t miss this opportunity, so after enjoying a hearty breakfast, I ensured my helmet and trusty Xpremium bicycle were in good condition. Then, I set off towards Rocky Hill.

Years ago, Bhavna and I embarked on a winter walk along the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail from Griggstown Lock to Kingston Lock with a group organised by the Montgomery Friends of Open Space. It was an invigorating walk in freezing weather. On a few other occasions, we also walked from Kingston Lock to Millstone Aqueduct and once from the Millstone Aqueduct to the Harrison Street Bridge. Simple pleasures.

Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR

My previous rides on the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail were shorter, so this time I aimed to go a little further. My plan was simple; ride from Rocky Hill to Kingston Lock, take a breather, capture some photographs, and then continue to the Millstone Aqueduct and footbridge. However, upon reaching the footbridge, I wanted to push on. I told myself I would go as far as Lower Harrison Street. Crossing the footbridge, I carried on.

Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR

When I arrived at Lower Harrison Street, I questioned myself, “How far can you go?” I worried about going too far, becoming too tired, or experiencing low blood glucose that would require Bhavna to come to my rescue. I checked my camera bag to ensure I had enough jelly beans to manage potential hypoglycemiahypoglycemia1. Feeling confident, I continued my journey.

Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR

I crossed the Washington Road Bridge, then the Alexander Road Bridge near Turning Basin Park in Princeton. Each time I reached a bridge, I wondered, “How much further can I go?” By crossing the Alexander Road Bridge, I had mentally committed to continuing to Port Mercer.

Port Mercer, a hamlet in Lawrence Township, owes its development to the opening of the Delaware and Raritan Canal in 1834. Before the canal’s construction, the area mainly consisted of agricultural land, primarily located further east and centred around Clarksville along the Trenton-New Brunswick Turnpike, known today as US Route 1. Prominent families like Clark, Gordon, Applegate, Phillips, Arrowsmith, and Forman owned extensive estates and farms close to Brunswick Pike.

Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR

The canal’s inauguration brought the residents a new avenue of transportation and economic opportunity. Alfred Applegate, an enterprising individual, seized this chance and established a store near the present-day bridge crossing, adjacent to the newly constructed canal bridge house. Over time, the store changed hands, with notable figures like John A. Crater and Charles Mather taking charge. By the 1850s, the canal hamlet thrived, featuring a cluster of homes, a post office, an inn, a steam-powered sawmill, a coal yard, and a turning and delivery basin.

Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR

The name “Port Mercer” emerged from the basin’s significance. It served as a loading and delivery area, facilitating direct transportation and the exchange of goods with larger markets in Trenton and New Brunswick. Additionally, it established connections to major cities like Philadelphia and New York City.

The ride to Port Mercer was a simple yet invigorating experience. The air smelled crisp and clean. I enjoyed witnessing everything that makes the Delaware and Raritan Canal Park Trail so fascinating - birds, turtles, humans walking dogs, paddle boats, and wildflowers. I even caught a glimpse of a snake. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride there and back again, with paddle boats gracefully gliding through the canal.

Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR

A sense of contentment washed over me as I made my way back. The ride offered a blend of adventure and tranquillity, for which I felt grateful.

I documented the ride on Strava. The round trip covered a distance of 33.98 km and lasted a little over two hours. Perhaps next time, I’ll venture all the way down to the Brearley House.

Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail at Port Mercer · Monday 8 May 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR

  1. I have Type 1 diabetes and manage my blood glucose with insulin. Hypoglycemia is always a concern. ?