XDS E-Micro Folding E-Bike Review

The XDS E-Micro is another folding e-bike the brand has built to offer a more lightweight approach and ease when folding. Was this my experience?

Important information about my review: This e-bike was loaned by Ivanhoe Cycles for testing purposes, and all the words are my own. I have not been compensated to promote the bike store or the bike’s brand.

Specs Summary

Riding the XDS E Micro

– There are a few nice things here that can benefit a rider. First, of course, it weighs 18 kg. This is not too bad compared to other bikes, like the XDS E-City, which is 2 kg heavier, but I was expecting less weight.

– Even though the seatpost was long, I didn’t feel confident it would not bend with my weight. I believe this bike was built for people between 155 cm and roughly 185 cm.

– The PAS provided by the front hub motor was surprisingly good. PAS 1 was strong enough to provide enough assistance for a smooth takeoff; on the other hand, when testing PAS5 (highest assistance), it was much more powerful and provided a smooth experience.

Ergonomics and Comfort

– I liked the long frame. It provided enough comfort and stability when taking sharp turns.

– The handlebar was easy to reach; however, I experienced some instability every time I pedalled from zero. I presume that the configuration of the stem was placed too forward.

Folding and unfolding experience

– I loved using the rear rack as a supporting mechanism instead of a kickstand. It was simple to fold, and the bike was easy to move around, thanks to the small plastic wheels attached.

– The folding process was a pain. It was not straightforward, and the front part of the frame was difficult to manipulate; there were too many things to consider. However, the unfolding process was much more manageable and took less than 10 seconds.

Controller and display

– I think it is a very basic controller. It provides minimum readouts like battery level travel and speed, which are really basic.

– I liked that the information was easy to read in bright conditions, something that more expensive high-end controllers, like some provided by Giant, struggle with.

Gear system

– The gear system, Shimano Nexus 7, was relatively smooth, responsive, and super easy to operate. However, if you have issues with your wrist, this gear mechanism is not for you.

Battery and range

– The battery range is a bit questionable. I believe it is on the low side, providing around 40 km to 50 km using PAS 1. You know, it is a smallish battery, so it’s not surprising.

Front hub motor

– I want to mention the motor’s power. At 250w, it was surprisingly strong for a front hub motor. It was responsive, smooth, and keen to assist me with my pedalling when riding uphill.

– One thing to consider is the traction of the front hub motor. Generally speaking,  front motors won’t provide the same traction as mid-drive or rear hub motors, especially in wet conditions. It would have been ideal if this E-Micro had a brake sensor in place to control the motor’s power; I didn’t feel unsafe, though.

Read More: Electric Bike Motors Guide

My final thoughts

– I believe the brand tried to build a nice-looking folding e-bike with a minimalist design. However, there were things I was not so impressed with.

– The motor had enough power to get me uphill without issues, and the gear shift system was smooth.

– Considering this is a foldable e-bike, I found the process somehow complex. Folding was a pain, but unfolding was okay.

Overall, I think the XDS E-Micro could offer good service for its price, but if you do not have much patience, this would not be the bike for you.