When searching for a multi-speed suspension electric bicycle, you’re bound to find a lot of e-bikes in the $1000 to $1500 price range. In this article we take a close look at one of the few reliable e-bikes in this class that actually cost under $1000; the Gotrax Alpha XL.
This bike comes with a powerful motor and a frame sturdy enough to support up to 265 pounds of weight. Nevertheless, it does have some shortcomings. For one, it might not be able to cover far distances on one charge because its battery is small.
But don’t make a decision right away. Go through the specs of the bike and then determine if it’s a good fit for you.
The bike might also not be suitable for since it is only available in high-step frame design.
Testing Evaluation
Tested against similar models within the same category
Main Features:
- Riders Weight Limit | 265 lbs (120 kg)
- Motor | 350W Rear Hub Motor
- Range | Up to 26 Miles per Charge
- Battery | 36V, 7.5Ah Lithium-ion Battery
- Speed | 20 MPH
Complete Breakdown of the Gotrax Alpha XL’s Features
Motor and Power
The Gotrax Alpha XL comes with a 350W rear hub motor. The motor isn’t the most powerful we’ve seen at this price point but it does pack enough punch to propel the bike to a top speed of 20mph.
During our speed test, we were able to clock 19 miles an hour.
Range
Riders should be able to cover up to 26 miles of range on a single charge of the Alpha XL. This is all thanks to the 36V 7.5Ah lithium-ion battery pack that fits seamlessly into the bike’s frame.
Since the frame supports quick and easy battery removal, you can purchase a separate pack from Gotrax and carry it with you in case you run out of power (or use it to extend your range). The only problem with the Alpha XL’s battery system is that it does not support on-frame charging.
This means you’d have to take the battery out of the frame to charge it. It does come with a 2 amp charger that should get the battery fully charged up in under 4 hours.
Speed
The Gotrax Alpha XL comes programmed with three speed settings. The first one provides enough motor assistance to reach speeds of 9mph while the second setting propels the bike to a top motor-assisted speed of 14mph.
The last setting provides motor assistance until 20mph. Riders can toggle between speed settings from the bike’s LED display.
Performance and Acceleration
The Gotrax Alpha XL is a pretty zippy electric bike. It comes with a throttle that provides power on demand and is an absolute joy to ride.
However, don’t expect it to perform on the same level as e-bikes like the Aventon Level or the RadCity 5 Plus; it is still just a 350W e-bike after all.
Climbing Ability
Don’t expect anything spectacular from this electric bike. While the motor might be able to provide enough assistance for you to climb up moderately-steep hills, steeper inclines are definitely going to bog the bike down.
This has nothing to do with whether you’re pedaling or using straight throttle, the bike is just not designed for heavy-duty purposes.
Ride Smoothness
The Gotrax Alpha XL is equipped with front suspension forks that help smoothen out bumpy rides. These shock absorbers might not be suitable for harsh trails but they’re pretty decent on flat roads.
Testing Evaluation
Tested against similar models within the same category
Main Features:
- Riders Weight Limit | 265 lbs (120 kg)
- Motor | 350W Rear Hub Motor
- Range | Up to 26 Miles per Charge
- Battery | 36V, 7.5Ah Lithium-ion Battery
- Speed | 20 MPH
Weight Limit and Net Weight
If you’re a heavy rider who has been looking for a beginner-friendly electric bike, the Gotrax Alpha XL might just be the perfect e-bike for you. It has a max rider capacity of 265lbs (120kg) and doesn’t weigh as much as most electric mountain bikes (the Gotrax Alpha XL weighs about 51lbs [23kg]).
Portability
As mentioned earlier, the Gotrax Alpha XL is a bit on the light side. However, its frame is a bit too massive for it to be considered a portable e-bike.
The bike measures up to 72.8 inches in length and is around 45 inches tall. It is also not foldable.
Display and Controls
The Gotrax Alpha XL comes with a minimalist LED display that indicates battery consumption (in 25% increments) and speed mode. The display also has an “On/Off” button for powering the bike on, a “Mode” button for switching between the bike’s different speed settings (Low, Med, and High), and a “Light” button for powering the bike’s headlamp.
Also located on the handlebars is a 7-speed Shimano shifter. One thing I really like about this shifter is its ability to be operated using just one finger – your thumb. It will not require you to remove your hands from the brakes to shift gears.
Water Resistance
The Gotrax Alpha XL is built to the IPX4 water resistance standard. This means that the bike’s electronic components are protected against ingress from water splashed from any direction.
So, technically speaking, it is safe to ride the Gotrax Alpha XL under light raining conditions as long as you avoid submerging any of its components inside puddles.
Warranty and Shipping
Gotrax usually processes new orders between 1 & 2 business days. These orders are then shipped to their respective destinations, which could take up to 5 business days.
The brand only ships to addresses within the Contiguous United States. All their e-bikes come with a 1-year warranty that only covers manufacturing defects.
Full Specs of the Gotrax Alpha XL
| Battery Capacity |
36V 7.5Ah |
|
Motor Type/size |
350W rear hub motor |
|
Top Speed |
20mph |
|
Brakes |
Front and rear mechanical disc brakes |
|
E-bike Weight |
50.9 lbs |
|
Total Payload Capacity |
265 lbs |
|
Tire Diameter |
29 inches |
|
Suspension |
Front suspension forks |
|
Drivetrain |
7-speed |
|
Accessories |
Rear-mounted kickstand, front headlight, wheel reflectors, a 2 Amp charger, and a bell. |
|
Throttle |
Yes |
Pros & Cons of the Gotrax Alpha XL
Pros
- Powerful motor.
- Very affordable (under $1000).
- It comes with a removable battery that fits seamlessly into the frame.
- Smoother riding experience thanks to its 29” tires.
Cons
- The saddle is not cushioned enough and might start to hurt your butt after just a few minutes of riding.
- The bike’s battery can’t be charged while it’s in the frame.
- Low-capacity battery.
Who’s the Gotrax Alpha XL For
If you’re in the market for an entry-level electric bike, the Gotrax might be the perfect fit for you. It comes with durable components and doesn’t cost a fortune. It’s also a great electric bike for urban commuters and recreational riders.
Who’s the Gotrax Alpha XL Not For
The Gotrax Alpha XL is not suitable for heavy off-road riding. It might come with suspension forks but the rest of the bike is not built to handle the rigors of riding over unforgiving terrain.
The bike might also not be suitable for short riders since it is only available in high-step frame design.
Testing Evaluation
Tested against similar models within the same category
Main Features:
- Riders Weight Limit | 265 lbs (120 kg)
- Motor | 350W Rear Hub Motor
- Range | Up to 26 Miles per Charge
- Battery | 36V, 7.5Ah Lithium-ion Battery
- Speed | 20 MPH
