Introduction of the Hero Lectro EHX20
The Hero Lectro EHX20 is an innovative electric bicycle that brings together the best of both worlds — the classic experience of cycling with the convenience and efficiency of electric power. Designed by Hero Cycles in collaboration with Yamaha, this e-bike is tailored for Indian roads and cycling enthusiasts who desire a sustainable, comfortable, and high-performance ride. In this comprehensive review, we will delve deep into the features, design, performance, pricing, and variants of the Hero Lectro EHX20. We will also explore what makes it a standout choice in the growing e-bike market in India.
What is the Hero Lectro EHX20?
The Hero Lectro EHX20 is a premium electric hybrid bike that offers both pedal-assist and throttle modes to cater to different riding preferences. It combines advanced Yamaha technology with Hero Cycles’ engineering expertise, resulting in a product that promises a smooth and powerful ride. The EHX20 is equipped with a powerful battery, a mid-drive motor, and cutting-edge components to ensure durability, reliability, and exceptional performance.
Whether you’re commuting to work, taking a leisurely ride, or going on long-distance cycling adventures, the Hero Lectro EHX20 is designed to provide a versatile and enjoyable experience. Its lightweight frame, ergonomic design, and advanced technology make it one of the most sought-after e-bikes in the Indian market.
Design and Build Quality
Stylish and Sturdy Frame
The Hero Lectro EHX20 features a lightweight aluminum alloy frame, which strikes a perfect balance between strength and weight. The frame’s design is sleek and modern, with a low-step geometry that makes it easy to mount and dismount, especially for riders of all ages and sizes. The bike comes in a striking matte black finish with green accents, giving it a sporty and contemporary look.
The build quality is robust, ensuring that the e-bike can withstand the rigors of daily commuting and outdoor adventures. The frame is corrosion-resistant, making it suitable for all weather conditions, whether you’re riding through a rainy monsoon or a hot summer day. The design also includes internally routed cables, which not only enhance the bike’s aesthetic appeal but also protect the cables from dirt and damage, ensuring longevity and reducing maintenance.
Ergonomics and Comfort
One of the key highlights of the Hero Lectro EHX20 is its focus on rider comfort. The bike is equipped with an ergonomic saddle designed to provide maximum support during long rides. The saddle height is adjustable, allowing riders to find the perfect fit for their body type. The handlebars are designed with a slight rise, promoting an upright riding position that reduces strain on the back and shoulders.
The EHX20 also features a front suspension fork with 80mm of travel, which helps absorb shocks and vibrations from uneven surfaces. This suspension system ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, whether you’re navigating city streets or venturing off-road. The combination of an ergonomic design and a well-tuned suspension system makes the Hero Lectro EHX20 suitable for both short commutes and long-distance rides.
Performance and Powertrain
Mid-Drive Motor for Superior Performance
At the heart of the Hero Lectro EHX20 is its Yamaha PW Series mid-drive motor, which delivers a powerful yet efficient performance. This 250W motor is strategically positioned at the center of the bike, providing a balanced weight distribution and enhancing overall stability. The mid-drive motor offers several advantages over traditional hub motors, including better torque, efficient power delivery, and a more natural riding feel.
The Yamaha motor is known for its reliability and durability, making it an ideal choice for an e-bike like the EHX20. It provides a maximum torque of 70Nm, which allows the bike to handle steep inclines and challenging terrains with ease. The motor is also relatively quiet, ensuring a peaceful and enjoyable ride.
Pedal Assist and Throttle Modes
The Hero Lectro EHX20 offers three levels of pedal-assist — Low, Medium, and High — allowing riders to choose the level of electric assistance they need. In the Low mode, the bike conserves battery power while providing a gentle boost, ideal for flat roads or when you want to extend the battery range. The Medium mode strikes a balance between power and range, making it suitable for daily commutes. The High mode delivers maximum power output, perfect for tackling hills or when you need an extra boost.
In addition to pedal assist, the Hero Lectro EHX20 also features a throttle mode, which allows the bike to be ridden like a scooter without pedaling. This feature is particularly useful for those moments when you need a break from pedaling or want to effortlessly cruise through traffic.
Battery and Range
The Hero Lectro EHX20 is powered by a 36V 11.6Ah lithium-ion battery, which is securely mounted on the downtube. This battery offers a range of up to 60 kilometers on a single charge, depending on the terrain, rider weight, and usage of pedal assist modes. The battery is designed to be easily removable, allowing for convenient charging both on and off the bike.
The battery takes approximately 4 hours to charge from 0 to 100%, ensuring minimal downtime between rides. The Hero Lectro EHX20 also features an intelligent Battery Management System (BMS) that protects the battery from overcharging, overheating, and short circuits, enhancing its lifespan and reliability.
Technology and Features
Advanced Display Console
The Hero Lectro EHX20 is equipped with a smart display console that provides real-time information about speed, distance, battery level, and riding mode. The display is backlit, ensuring visibility even in bright sunlight or low-light conditions. The console is conveniently positioned on the handlebar, allowing riders to access information without taking their eyes off the road.
The display also includes a USB port, which can be used to charge your smartphone or other electronic devices on the go. This feature adds to the bike’s practicality, especially for long-distance riders who need to keep their devices charged.
Shimano 7-Speed Gear System
To complement its electric powertrain, the Hero Lectro EHX20 comes with a Shimano 7-speed gear system. This gearing system allows riders to adjust their pedaling effort according to the terrain, making it easier to climb hills or cruise on flat roads. The Shimano shifters are known for their smooth and precise gear changes, ensuring a hassle-free riding experience.
The combination of the electric motor and the 7-speed gear system provides a versatile performance, catering to different riding styles and conditions. Whether you want to conserve battery on a long ride or need an extra push on a steep climb, the Hero Lectro EHX20 has you covered.
Disc Brakes for Superior Stopping Power
Safety is a top priority for the Hero Lectro EHX20, and it comes equipped with high-quality disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels. These mechanical disc brakes provide reliable stopping power, even in wet or slippery conditions. The brakes are designed to be responsive and easy to control, ensuring that you can stop quickly and safely when needed.
The inclusion of disc brakes also enhances the bike’s overall durability, as they are less prone to wear and tear compared to traditional rim brakes. This means lower maintenance costs and a longer lifespan for your e-bike.
Variants and Pricing in India
The Hero Lectro EHX20 is available in a single variant, but it offers several customization options to cater to different preferences. Here is a breakdown of the pricing and available options:
- Hero Lectro EHX20 (Standard Model): The standard model is priced at approximately INR 1,35,000. This variant includes all the features mentioned above, such as the Yamaha mid-drive motor, 36V battery, front suspension, disc brakes, and Shimano 7-speed gear system.
While the Hero Lectro EHX20 is available in only one standard configuration, riders can choose from a variety of accessories and add-ons to personalize their e-bike. These accessories include pannier racks, water bottle holders, phone mounts, saddlebags, and more.
Benefits of Choosing Hero Lectro EHX20
Eco-Friendly and Cost-Effective
The Hero Lectro EHX20 is an eco-friendly mode of transportation that produces zero emissions, making it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious riders. By choosing an electric bike like the EHX20, you can reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying the health benefits of cycling.
In addition to being environmentally friendly, the EHX20 is also cost-effective. With rising fuel prices and increasing awareness of sustainable transportation, e-bikes offer a great alternative to traditional vehicles. The low operating costs, minimal maintenance, and lack of fuel expenses make the Hero Lectro EHX20 a smart investment in the long run.
Versatile and Convenient
One of the biggest advantages of the Hero Lectro EHX20 is its versatility. It is designed to handle various terrains, from smooth city roads to rough countryside trails. The combination of electric assistance and a manual gear system ensures that you can ride comfortably, regardless of the conditions.
The bike’s design also makes it convenient for daily commuting. With a removable battery, easy charging options, and a lightweight frame, the EHX20 can be effortlessly stored or transported. It is perfect for urban dwellers who need a compact and efficient mode of transport.
User Reviews and Feedback
The Hero Lectro EHX20 has received positive feedback from users and critics alike. Riders appreciate its powerful motor, reliable battery range, and smooth ride quality. The bike’s build quality, advanced technology, and safety features have also been praised.
However, some users have mentioned that the bike could benefit from a slightly larger battery for extended range, especially for those who frequently use the High pedal-assist mode or ride on hilly terrains. Overall, the Hero Lectro EHX20 has been lauded for its value for money, making it a popular choice among Indian consumers.
Comparison with Competitors
The Hero Lectro EHX20 faces competition from several other e-bikes in the market, such as the EMotorad EMX 2024, Firefox Adventron, and the GoZero Mile. Here’s how it compares to its competitors:
- EMotorad EMX 2024: The EMotorad EMX 2024 offers a similar range and price point, but the Hero Lectro EHX20 has a superior Yamaha mid-drive motor and better build quality. The EHX20 also provides a more natural riding experience with its advanced pedal-assist technology.
- Firefox Adventron: The Adventron is known for its affordability and simple design, but it lacks the power and performance of the Hero Lectro EHX20. The EHX20’s mid-drive motor, disc brakes, and front suspension make it a better option for those seeking a high-performance e-bike.
- GoZero Mile: The GoZero Mile is a popular entry-level e-bike, but it does not match the Hero Lectro EHX20 in terms of motor power, battery capacity, or technology. The EHX20’s advanced features and superior build quality make it a more versatile and reliable choice.
Conclusion
The Hero Lectro EHX20 is a game-changer in the world of electric bicycles. With its advanced Yamaha mid-drive motor, versatile riding modes, high-quality components, and comfortable design, it stands out as a premium e-bike for both beginners and experienced riders. Priced competitively in India, it offers great value for money, making it a smart choice for those looking to adopt sustainable and efficient transportation.
Whether you are a daily commuter or an adventure enthusiast, the Hero Lectro EHX20 is designed to meet your needs. It combines performance, style, and functionality in a single package, ensuring that every ride is a memorable experience.