Battle of the folding E-Bikes: K Series vs Lectric XP 3.0 vs Lectric XP Lite - Which Reigns Supreme?

When comparing any product, it's essential to breakdown their specifications comprehensively to determine the most suitable option. This is especially true for e-bikes because there are so many options out on the market today. In this article, we'll compare three leading entry-level e-bikes, highlighting their differences in both a chart and text for easy reference. We'll do a short dive into each feature individually, identifying why the feature is important and if there is a clear winner in the category. Finally, based on this thorough examination, we'll provide our take on the best value among these three options.

Comparison Chart for Easy Reference

Price

The price of an e-bike is the most important factor for many buyers, but especially for first-time buyers looking for an entry-level e-bike. The price of an electric bike can vary significantly based on the brand, features, quality, and extras like long warranties or an easy return policy.

The KBO K Series wins out easily against both the Lectric XP Lite and the Lectric XP 3.0. With the price of $699, not only is the KBO K Series the least expensive option, but it also comes with the longest warranty (a full two years compared to only a one-year warranty for both Lectric models). The length of the warranty from any company says a lot about how much they stand behind the quality of their products.

Motor

The highest-performance motors offered on e-bikes are typically 750-watt peak power. Once in a while, professional bikes will come with a 1,000-watt motor. For everyday riders in average situations, this will be complete overkill. A 500-watt motor is the sweet spot that provides enough power to get up most inclines at a good speed. As seen in the chart above, both the K Series and the XP 3.0 come equipped with such a motor. However, possibly in an attempt to use cheaper parts, the XP Lite only achieves 300 watts of nominal power, which may not be enough for many riders.

Battery Capacity and Range

Higher capacity batteries can provide longer rides between charges, but they may also add weight and cost to the bike. The range of an e-bike indicates how far it can travel on one charge. Factors such as rider weight, terrain, air temperature, and riding style can affect actual e-bike range, but a higher-capacity battery and efficient motor all contribute to longer rides between charges.

However, the Lectric XP Lite only has a 7.8Ah rating, while the K Series and XP 3.0 achieve a 10.4Ah rating. This means that the XP Lite will have less range and possibly take longer to charge than the K Series and XP 3.0 models. You don’t want to be caught out of battery power far away from home, so this is important to consider.

Entry-level e-bikes in this class must be affordable to be practical, but they must also have decent range which is where the K Series excels. The K Series comes standard with enough range to get you around the city to every stop on your journey. Users have reported being able to ride multiple days in a row without needing to charge these batteries. There is plenty of juice in the K Series to get you around the campsite, the campus, or the bike path of your choosing without breaking the bank. 

Top Speed

The top speed of an e-bike impacts different types of riding, from commuting to leisurely cruises. Regulations often limit the maximum speed allowed for e-bikes in certain areas, so riders should consider legal restrictions as well as personal preferences when comparing top speeds. Most states in the U.S. have a top legal speed of 20mph without pedal assistance, which makes each of these 3 options about equal for simple activities like commuting, running errands, and general exercise.

Drivetrain

Drivetrains typically determine how efficiently power from the motor is transferred to the wheels by way of the gear system. E-bikes, especially budget-friendly e-bikes, often come with traditional derailleurs, or single-speed setups, each with different advantages in terms of maintenance, efficiency, and riding experience.
Again, we see the Lectric XP Lite lagging behind the other two in this category. By only offering a single-speed drivetrain, it may be more difficult to achieve efficient momentum with the XP Lite, compared to the 7-speed option offered on the other two competing bikes.

Weight

As one might expect, the weight of an e-bike affects its maneuverability, portability, and overall feel. Lighter bikes are easier to handle and transport, while heavier bikes offer more stability in rough conditions. Coming in at 46 lbs., the XP Lite is the lightest bike amongst the three, with the K Series in the middle at 55 lbs. and the XP 3.0 weighing in at the high end of 64 lbs.

When considering folding e-bikes, weight will be unique to what each rider feels capable and confident with carrying. Thanks to the removable battery, the K Seriescan be lightened prior to carrying it up stairs or placing it into a car.

Tires and Brakes

Tires play an important role in traction, comfort, and handling. E-bikes may come with various tire sizes, tread patterns, and compositions suited to different riding conditions, such as road, trail, or mixed terrain. Fat tires, a crowd favorite and featured on the K Series, typically measure at least 3” wide.

High-quality tires and good brakes are essential for safety and control, especially at higher speeds. Bikes typically come with either mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes, with hydraulic brakes offering slightly better stopping performance, but more maintenance. The K Series comes with mechanical disc brakes which function very well in the use-cases described in this article and require less maintenance than hydraulic brakes

Folded Dimensions

Just like with the weight factor, riders with limited storage space or those who need to transport their e-bike frequently will find folded dimensions critical. All 3 of these foldable e-bikes are easy to store in apartments, classrooms, or vehicles, offering convenience without sacrificing the ease of riding.

The XP Lite is the smallest overall option, just ahead of the XP 3.0 and followed by the KBO K Series. In general, the size differences amongst these 3 bikes would likely not be noticeable.

The Takeaway

By analyzing this comparison of the most important features of entry-level e-bikes, the best e-bike for most riders looking for a foldable design at the absolute most affordable price is hands down the KBO K Series. While the Lectric models do have some advantages in a couple categories, the KBO K Series wins out on the features that matter most. To further ensure the K Series provides the most value for the money, KBO offers additional discounts for students and veterans, and an extra $200 off when buying two bikes!

This makes the decision easy; it’s the KBO K Series for your first and best e-bike choice. Happy shopping!