Lectro Renew (2017) - Review

The Lectro Renew has been made using an aluminium alloy frame that offers stability and durability. The ergonomically designed frame offers an upright riding position. The frame is available in one size and it is relatively oversized. I feel that shorter riders might have a hard time mounting, and controlling the bicycle. The low-step through frame design is what enabled easier mounting for shorter riders. The frame has an integrated, detachable Li-On battery mounted on it. This bicycle comes with a suspension fork enabled with mechanical lockout.

The Lectro Renew comes equipped with a Shimano Altus, 7-speed rear derailleur. The shifting is comfortable, smooth and on-point. What enhances this department is the electric assisted pedalling that comes to life with the installed rechargeable battery that powers a motor on the bicycle. The pick-up in power is noticeable right from the first time you pedal. The 48V rear hub motor adds to the pedalling power with each stroke of the pedal. The motor of the cycle has a range of five power options that can be used according to the amount of electric assistance the cyclist requires. The charge range of the battery is estimated to be able to power the bicycle for up to 5 kilometres, and the battery takes approximately 4-5 hours to charge. The motor power cut off is at 25 km/h, which is the max speed one can achieve with the electric assisted pedalling. There is a cadence sensor connected to the motor and an LCD display screen that lets the rider know the speed, as well as vital information such as charge left and power range that is being used.

The Lectro Renew comes in a single colour of bright yellow designing over a matte black frame. The yellow design is spread over the frame and is prominent. I feel that the bicycle would have been more aesthetically pleasing with a toned-down amount of yellow designing. That said, when on the test ride, it did turn more than a few heads when on the road.

The Lectro Renew comes equipped with Tektro Hydraulic disc brakes with a 16mm rotor and brake sensors in the front and rear of the bicycle. The stoppage power was found to be extremely efficient. The handle bar used on this bicycle is of the perfect length to ensure great control and stability of the bicycle. A LCD screen is mounted on the handlebar which controls the power options of the motor as well as the head lamps that are on the bicycle. The screen displays essential details such as speed, power range and battery status.

The Lectro Renew comes with Kenda 1cm wide fat tires, with efficient treading to offer good grip and stability. The wheels enabled efficient control and grip while turning on sharp corners. The broadness of the tire is necessary for stability with the power this bicycle offers. The fat tires on this bicycle make it an efficient bicycle to ride on sandy beaches, trails and bumpy roads.The overall riding experience on the Lectro Renew was fun, novel and commendable. One thing that is noteworthy is the fact that the motor only runs with pedalling, so one can’t slack off and expect the motor to do all the work. This makes it the perfect cycle for commutes and fitness.