XDS E-CRUZ – BLACK

The XDS E-Cruz is a hybrid e-bike that is designed to suit 170-190cm riders for general fitness rides, commuting and leisure rides. It’s perfect for rail trails, bike paths and inner-city roads and lanes.

Almost all the major components are made from aluminium, including the frame, wheels, handlebars and front fork legs. So weight has been removed from many places to improve handling and battery life.

The E-Cruz has a sport (but comfortable) riding position. This is to ensure the bike’s handling is on the quicker side. E-bikes are generally heavier, so the quicker handling helps balance it out.

For commuting, the E-Cruz comes with mudguards and a rear rack. Also, it’s worth noting that the cabling is routed internally, minimising maintenance and protecting the wiring.

Hydraulic disc brakes (front and rear) also help stop the E-Cruz. And are a must on any e-bike. The extra weight of the e-bike needs greater stopping power to decelerate. With hydro brakes, the E-Cruz stops quicker and with much less hand effort. A blessing for constant on and off braking – especially in traffic.

An 8 speed Shimano drivetrain helps shift gears. The Shimano Acera rear derailleur and shifter are both reliable and great quality mid-level components. Shifting is performed by a Rapid Fire Plus trigger, so shifting is smooth and accurate every time.

There are three sizes in the E-Cruz; 16”, 18.5” and 20” (or small, medium and large).

MID-DRIVE

It’s worth mentioning that the E-Cruz uses a mid-drive mounting system and has numerous advantages.

First, the motor is placed in a neutral position and at the lowest position. This reduces the centre of gravity and improves handling – far better than a rear hub or front hub driven system.

Second, mid-drive systems are more powerful and more efficient compared to their hub driven counterparts.

THE ELECTRONICS

The correct technique for gear shifting is to reduce the pressure (or torque) on the pedals. On an e-bike this becomes extremely important.

Because the power that is delivered to an e-bike’s drivetrain can be up to 5 times higher.

The E-Cruz has a Gear Shift Sensor. When you shift gears, the sensor cuts the motor power out. This places less strain on the chain and cassette.

The battery is also a great size at 2900mAh (milliamp hour) and 36 Volts. The greater the mAh number, the battery has a higher capacity and service life.

A backlit LED screen shows you metrics such as speed (current, max and average) and distance (trip and total). It also shows you battery life and assistance level.

There are 5 levels of assistance to choose from, plus walk mode. Everything is controlled by remote control on the handlebar. Walk mode is great for when you need to move the E-Cruz up a ramp or incline – or simply walk alongside the bike.