Lightspeed Glyd: ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The Lightspeed Glyd is made using a steel frame. Traditionally, steel frames are known to add to the weight of the bicycle, in this case, the steel frame along with a battery pack does indeed make the bicycle fall on the heavier side. However, being an electric-bicycle weighing in at 21 kgs is quite impressive. Moreover, the steel frame, 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 6ft 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 comes with a black frame and 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 light and the display monitor adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of this bicycle.

The Battery and Motor is the make or break of an electric bicycle. The Lightspeed Glyd 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 25 kmph, 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 comes with a disc brake at the front and a V-Brake at the back. Since electric bicycles deliver speeds that require no effort, braking is an important component, incase one needs to get the bicycle to a complete 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 were well spaced, allowing comfortable access without strain while riding.

The Lightspeed Glyd comes with Ralson 26” x 1.95”, well threaded tires.The 1.95” width of the tires enabled 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.