Fat Tire Battle: Comparing the New Lectric XPeak with Hovsco HovAlpha

The leading ebike brand Lectric has announced its newest ebike model XPeak, which is a fat tire ebike, and already started pre-sale. The brand is famous for its foldable ebikes, and has now come up with a new model that is similar to Hovsco’s HovAlpha and fits riders of more of an adventurer type.

So what’s the difference between the new XPeak and HovAlpha? We’ll start by listing the key differences between the two, and then dive deep into all their specs.

Main Differences

	HovAlpha	XPeak
Picture
Sensor	Torque sensor	Candence sensor
Battery capacity	960Wh (48V 20Ah)	672Wh (48V 14Ah)
Range	Up to 80 miles	Up to 55 miles
Capacity	450lbs	330 lbs
Coloroptions	4	2
Price	Starting from $1599(Contact us for this deal)	Starting from $1399

Breaking down the main difference

Sensor

Don’t take it from us, let’s read a rider’s comment under the release of XPeak:

I have a Lectric XP. I also have a J*** while my wife has an R**. The latter two use a torque sensor. The Lectric does not. Suffice it to say, I'm not going back. Once you experience the natural feel of a true torque sensor, it becomes obvious that a "poor man's torque sensor" is not even a close substitute. I see other makers like A*** and R*** moving towards torque sensors like J ***. It's because the buyers are getting more sophisticated in their knowledge. Lectric made the wrong decision to prioritize a $400 fork over a $100 torque sensor.

Torque and cadence sensors are the two types of sensor in the ebike market. The torque sensor is the superior and more expensive one. It provides power boost based on how hard you pedal, therefore offering a natural and intuitive riding experience just like riding a normal acoustic bike. While the cadence sensor robotically offers power boost based on the rotation of the pedals. It does not offer such a real cycling feel as torque sensor.

Though Lectric claims to use some kind of programming to help the cadence sensor be more effective, according to the rider’s comment, it does not make a big difference. Torque sensor is the way to go!

Only one of the seven Lectric ebike models on sale now uses the advanced torque sensor, while all Hovsco ebikes use it (except HovCity cruiser). It's one of the reasons why Hovsco ebikes are on the higher end of the market and a little pricier.

Battery

It is obvious that one of the main differences between the two ebikes is the battery. HovAlpha has a larger battery capacity than XPeak, far exceeding by 288Wh.

The gap between the batteries leads to other differences between the two. The most significant influence is on the range. HovAlpha offers a maximum range of 80 miles, while XPeak only supports a trip up to 55 miles. Also, the capacity is under influence. HovAlpha is able to support up to 450 lbs of payload, while it’s only 330 lbs with XPeak. If you are a rider on the higher end of the weight scale, HovAlpha is the better choice.

Colors

Colors matter to those who not only have fun riding, but also want to look good on the ride. XPeak merely offers two color options, which is the plain and simple black and white. The step-over model only comes in black and the step-thru only in white. On the other hand, HovAlpha offers four color options in total. The step-over model comes in green and grey, and the step-thru model champagne and dark red. The shiny metallic paint is sure to catch eyes on the street!

Conclusion

Although HovAlpha is slightly more pricy than XPeak, HovAlpha is a better choice for those who would like a natural-feeling, fashion-forward ebike that supports more range and more weight.

Click the links below to check out the Hovsco HovAlpha fat tire ebike:

Step-over model: https://www.hovsco.com/products/hovsco-hovalpha-26in-all-terrain-electric-fat-bike

Step-thru model: https://www.hovsco.com/products/hovsco-hovalpha-step-thru-26in-electric-fat-bike

After looking at the differences, let’s dive into the thorough comparison between the two to give you a total look at their performances.

Electrical components

Summary: Both XPeak and HovAlpha feature a 750-watt strong motor. It is the legal top limit of ebike motor power in the US, so any “ebike” with a motor stronger than that should not be regarded as an ebike. As mentioned above, the key difference is between their battery and sensor, leading to the gap between performances such as capacity and range.

Mechanical components

Summary: XPeak and HovAlpha are classic fat tire ebike models. They both utilize 26 by 4 inches fat tires, which is perfect for tough terrains such as gravel, dirt, snow and grass. And they both use the high-end hydraulic brake and front suspension system.

Performance

Summary: Though XPeak is slightly cheaper, the huge difference between their range and capacity can explain the price gap well. It is clear which is a better choice for a rider who looks for longer rides or is on the higher end of the weight scale.

Click the links below to check out the Hovsco HovAlpha fat tire ebike:

Step-over model: https://www.hovsco.com/products/hovsco-hovalpha-26in-all-terrain-electric-fat-bike

Step-thru model: https://www.hovsco.com/products/hovsco-hovalpha-step-thru-26in-electric-fat-bike

Why should you get a fat tire ebike? Read this blog to find out the benefits: https://www.hovsco.com/blogs/blogs/the-benefits-of-fat-tire-ebikes-all-season-companion-from-sand-to-snow