Lightspeed Glyd 21 Speed: ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The Lightspeed Glyd 21 Speed is made using an Alloy hardtail frame. While the previous version were coming in steel, this alloy helps with reducing the weight of the bicycle. The alloy frame material, makes it a sturdy and durable bicycle capable of withstanding heavy usage. The bicycle comes in a single frame size corresponding to 18.5”. This is suitable for riders from 5’5” to 6’ tall. The bicycle comes with a suspension fork which works well to absorb vibrations felt from flat terrain trails as well as rugged roads and potholes.

The Lightspeed Glyd 21 Speed comes with a Black frame, with Orange highlights. The branding, too, is in the same shade of Orange. The rims on the bicycle are color coded, and match the shade of Orange that is on the frame.In addition to its neat design and paint job, the front LED lights and the display monitor adds to the overall aesthetics of this bicycle.

Lightspeed has recently added some multi-speed variants to the Glyd City E-bike. This variant which I test rode came with a 3x7 Speed Shimano Tourney derailleurs. These derailleurs are entry-level but the usage is minimal on an e-bicycle like the Glyd and shifted smoothly. Gears on electric bicycle are useful to match the speed of the bicycle and also helps when battery runs out during a ride. The easy fire trigger shifters are simple and easy to use.

The Battery and Motor is the make or break of electric bicycles. The Lightspeed Glyd 21 Speed comes with a 250W brushless DC motor located at the hub of the rear wheel which is powered by a rechargeable Lithium Ion battery, with a capacity of 7.8Ah. The battery takes about 3.5 hours to charge and can last for an approximate of 30-35 kilometres per charge. This is probably the only area that could use with a slight upgrade on this bicycle.

The bicycle functions on two operating modes, one being pedal-assist and the second being hub, and throttle driven. In the pedal-assist mode, there are three levels - Low, Medium and High - each determining the amount of momentum provided by the pedal-assist system. The Low mode being the least, and High being the most. The ‘High’ setting allowed me to reach 25 kmph with minimum effort. In the second mode, one achieves additional momentum by simply moving the throttle on the right grip of the handlebar, similar to the accelerator on scooters. The maximum speed achievable on this mode is also 25kmph, however using this mode one does not have to pedal, at all. Thereby, saving energy. The pick up was rather impressive while using both modes, and the power sufficient to effortlessly conquer climbs and harsh ‘head wind’ riding conditions.

The Lightspeed Glyd 21 Speed comes with a Disc brake at the front and rear. Since electric bicycles deliver speeds that require no efforts, braking is an important component, incase one needs to get the bicycle to a full stop within moments. The brakes on this bicycle worked efficiently, giving me confidence to ride without inhibitions in heavy city traffic. The right brake acts as a motor cut off, and it responds quickly.

The handlebar on this bicycle is long and comfortable, allowing for a comfortable riding position. The reach to the display monitor on the left, and the accelerator on the right was well spaced, allowing comfortable access without straining at all while riding.

The Lightspeed Glyd 21 Speed comes with Ralson 26” x 1.95”, well treaded tires.The 1.95” width of the tires ensured that they were fast rolling and has good grip. 26” tires are great in terms of on-road performance with the likelihood of potholes and occasional rough, rugged roads. The tires are sure to work well providing adequate traction on both wet and dry surfaces.

The saddle on this bicycle is commendable. It was well cushioned throughout, leaving no room for saddle sores or general discomfort when used on longer rides.