Svitch XE+: ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The Svitch XE+ is built on a folding frame made of 6061 Alloy. Electric bicycles are generally considered to be heavy and the Alloy makes sure the weight is in check. This frame folds from the middle with a strong metal lever and the handlebar also folds down using a similar type of lever. These levers are easy to open and close without the help of any tool. The low top tube helps in easy and safe getting on and off for shorter riders and the adjustable seat post and handlebar helps rider’s from 5’ t 6’4” to find their ideal riding posture. Both the XE and XE+ models come with the same frame.

The XE+ is a full suspension bicycle with both front and rear suspensions. The front suspension fork works smoothly and helps reduce most vibrations of the surface on bumpy roads. The rear suspension behind the saddle on the rear triangle on the frame makes sure the vibrations of the bumps on the roads don’t fully get passed on to the saddle for the rider.

The Svitch XE+ which I test rode came in a full Red frame with Black as the secondary colour for the text. The gloss paint job was neatly done with a shiny finish. This folding bicycle’s frame design was simple yet elegant with simple welds and levers which enable easy folding and opening. The handlebar is packed with accessories which include a bottle cage, mobile holder and also a combination lock which is fixed on to a holder on the tube. The front adjustable White LED light fixed on the fork and the blue strip type LED rear light on the seat post are useful safety features which are aesthetic as well.

This Electric Bicycle is equipped with a simple 1x8-Speed Shimano Altus drivetrain. This means there is no front derailleur and the rear has a 8-Speed derailleur. Gears generally help in increasing or decreasing the pressure in pedalling. This performance focused 8-Speed Altus gear helps in 2 things; for exercise purposes and also to pedal easily if in case the battery power runs out during a ride. The Shimano shifters were basic and were easy to shift with clear gear indicators.

The XE+ from Svitch is equipped with a default 11.6Ah Lithium-Ion battery which powers a Bafang brushless DC rear hub motor. This battery is safely concealed inside the top tube of the frame which protects the battery from theft, weather and external damage. This battery is locked inside and can be opened using a key and can be accessed from the bottom of the top tube. This battery can be removed easily by folding the frame and opening the lock. The 5 level pedal assist modes helps in controlling the power generated from the battery per each pedal. The throttle on the right side grip helps the rider move without any pedalling and is easy to use. The 5 level assist also caps the throttle speed at each level. The colour Bafang LCD display on the handlebar has the speed, trip meter, assist levels and battery level indicators.

In 1 full charge this battery is capable of giving 60-70 kms in pedal assist mode and 55-60 kms in throttle mode. These mileages will differ with the varied riding conditions and rider weight. The top speed using just throttle is 25 kmph and the speed can be increased using pedal assist simultaneously. This battery takes 4 - 4.5 hours to charge from 0 to 100% in any normal Indian plug point. The charging point for the battery is on the left side of the frame. The battery can also be removed and charged separately.

The XE+’s stopping power is handled by Tektro branded Mechanical Disc brakes at the front and rear. Tektro is a performance range brake component and provided powerful stopping power during the test ride.

The handlebar on this bicycle was of the perfect length to give a comfortable riding posture and easy manoeuvring. The grip throttle on the right was smooth and easy to use to accelerate. This handlebar is adjustable in height and can also be folded.

The Svitch XE+ rolls on a pair of 20” x 4” fat tires. These tires from Chaoyang are heavily treaded and fast rolling, making them perfect for rough and smooth roads.

The Stock Saddle from Svitch was wide and well cushioned to keep the rider sore free when riding on bumpy roads.

Note - The Svitch XE+ does not come with mudguards. They can be purchased separately