A dead Lectric XP battery usually means a dead bike, because Lectric does not sell you a cheap way back. The ShunTongDa 48V 14Ah replacement is that way back for Step-Thru 1.0 and 2.0 owners: 672Wh, correct 5-pin connector, matching frame fit, and a 4.9 star rating from 11 buyers who mostly wrote two sentences each. Small sample, but the right sample.
The 18650 lithium-ion cells used in the production process are well-proven and reliable. They provide excellent energy storage properties as compared to many alternative chemistries and therefore meet the needs of this application. By filling the 14Ah battery pack with these cells, the manufacturers are seeking to find a suitable compromise between high levels of power output and battery longevity.
The BMS functions as the brains of the operation, monitoring all cells to prevent damage from overcharging, over-discharging, or shorting. If the BMS were not present in the system, the individual battery cells could potentially degrade rapidly causing premature failure. Additionally, if left unchecked, a damaged battery could pose serious safety hazards. Therefore, the presence of the BMS protects both the internal components of the battery and the overall safety of the user, especially when operating the ebike heavily while engaged in extended trips.
As previously stated, another key function of this battery's physical design is its ability to fold into a compact size so that it may fit snugly inside the Lectric XP Step-Thru frame geometry. The dimensions of the battery are 430 x 102 x 42 mm, making it compatible with the Lectric XP Step-Thru. As stated earlier, this folding design allows the battery to remain secured safely within the bike geometry. The 5-pin connector arrangement is identical to that of the original setup, resulting in no additional wiring or adapter requirements. The design of the handle and locking mechanism makes swapping batteries easy and convenient. requiring no tools and taking mere minutes to complete.
Compatibility is obviously important to customers purchasing aftermarket products. Although the title of the listing reads "Lectric XP 3.0", the details listed in bullet points relate primarily to the 1.0 and 2.0 Step-Thru models.
Therefore, before investing in this product, owners of Lectric XP 3.0 models or non-Step-Thru models should contact the seller to confirm compatibility. Due to the uniqueness of the Lectric XP frame geometry and because the folding battery is manufactured to match that exact space, a standard rectangular style battery cannot be utilized in this frame. The custom fit will maintain the center of gravity as originally designed by the manufacturers, which contributes positively to ease of handling.
Real-world range estimates for this battery indicate that riders can anticipate approximately 20 to 35 miles per single charge depending on environmental factors. Assuming a 500W configuration and relatively flat terrain combined with moderate assistance from pedals, riders can expect approximately 30 miles. However, assuming the rider has opted for a 750W motor and frequently utilizes full throttle or climbs steep inclines, they may see reduced mileage ranging from 15 to 20 miles per charge. This wide variation in estimated range is directly related to how much power is required under load conditions.
The increased capacity provided by the 672Wh pack enables users to utilize more of their battery reserve per single charge, ultimately spending significantly less time charging their ebike versus utilizing it.
The listing includes data indicating that the battery should last more than 1,000 recharge cycles with <1% low self-discharge rates. Based upon average daily usage, this equates to anywhere from 2 to 3 years of service life prior to experiencing measurable degradation in capacity. Long-term durability is critical for daily commuters who often depend exclusively upon their ebikes for transportation. With this type of reliability, the consumer benefits from their initial investment extending beyond multiple seasons. In addition to longer lifespan, higher quality cells tend to retain their voltage better than lower-cost alternatives as packs age. Consequently, there is a greatly diminished likelihood that a commuter will experience an unexpected loss of power mid-trip.
What Amazon Reviewers Are Saying
Buyer ratings for this product on amazon currently stand at an impressive 4.9 stars based upon a total of eleven (11) buyer comments. Positive comments account for nearly all reviews submitted to date. One satisfied customer indicated that he was able to install this battery as a replacement for his dead stock battery without any complications. Another happy customer expressed gratitude for a reasonable price point and rapid shipping. A third satisfied buyer reported having successfully completed a twenty-five mile journey without encountering any issues associated with this new battery.
An interesting comment was received from One of four star-rated customers stating that he successfully installed this battery on his lectric experience step-over model. There are indications that it may be possible to install it on models outside of Step-Thru configurations. One customer suggested to fellow buyers to always charge with the included charger as opposed to charging with the original charger for maximum longevity. The absence of any buyer complaints regarding defective products represents an extremely promising sign regarding reliability and performance from this aftermarket component.
Who Should Buy This
This battery is ideal for owners of Lectric XP 1.0 & 2.0 Step-Thru whose original battery has suffered a reduction in usable capacity. Owners wishing to restore their bikes’ original range capabilities or possibly extend their range slightly further may benefit from installing this 14Ah pack. This product is also suited for owners of Lectric XP who desire an easy-to-install drop-in solution without requiring any electrical modification or customization to their frames.
Who Should Skip This
If you own a Lectric XP 3.0 model, do not purchase this product until confirmation has been obtained from the seller confirming compatibility of this product with your particular model. Geometric differences exist among models including connector layouts which may vary among generations of Lectric XP. Also do not purchase this product if you own a bike other than a Lectric XP since it is a specialized product designed specifically for your particular frame design. Alternatives offering greater compatibility can be found in our battery comparison table sorted by price per watt-hour, and more detailed replacement information exists in our blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this ShunTongDa battery compatible with my Lectric XP Step-Thru?
Yes. The design is intended to be the same size as well as have the identical 5-pin discharger location (and also dimension) as the Step Thru 1.0 & 2.0: 430 x 102 x 42mm. Check your original battery to see if it is the right one.
Does it come with a charger?
Yes. A charger is provided. Many reviewers advise to use the charger that came with this ShunTongDa battery instead of your current charger from Lectric.
How far will I go on each charge?
The range you can expect to get depends upon your usage: amount of help used, speed of travel, your riding style, etc... Expect about 20 to 35 miles.
What kind of warranty does it come with?
You'll receive a 12 month warranty along with 24/7 support from the manufacturer who states they offer a "satisfaction guaranteed" policy.
Will it work on the Lectric XP 3.0?
Unclear. In their product description they say it's the Lectric XP 3.0 but then describe compatibility with the 1.0 and 2.0 Step-Thru models. Please contact the vendor before purchasing.
How long will it last before needing replacement?
ShunTongDa claims at least 80 percent capacity retention after 1000+ recharge cycles. Charging daily, that works out to roughly two to three years before noticeable fade.