When comparing Watseka XP Cargo Electric Bicycle vs Gocycle G2, the Slant community recommends Gocycle G2 for most people. In the question“What are the best electric bikes?” Gocycle G2 is ranked 9th while Watseka XP Cargo Electric Bicycle is ranked 18th. The most important reason people chose Gocycle G2 is:
The GoCycle G2 can connect to your smartphone and a companion app via a Bluetooth connection and allows improved customization of your bike and also monitors different aspects such as speed limits, power mode and battery life. You can also keep the bike itself up to date with the Connect app, as it's possible to update the bike's firmware through the application. In the case of a technical failure, the app is able to generate a maintenance log for future reference. Another feature of the Connect app is the ability to upload custom maps: you can specify parts of that map where the Gocycle should provide motor assistance. In case of a stolen G2, the app allows the user to remotely lock the bike if someone else tries to pair with it.
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Pros
Pro Comes with accessories
The Watseka XP Cargo comes with a number of different accessories, such as a front light, rear light, horn, bell, front basket and a rear cargo rack.
Pro Budget-friendly
Out of all the electrical bikes available in the Western market, the Watseka XP Cargo is one of most inexpensive options.
Pro Doesn't feel cheap
The bike itself is sturdy and overall well constructed. The frame is completely made of steel and doesn't feel cheap. In short, build quality is great.
Pro Easily assembled
Watseka includes a User Guide and assembly instruction, and also provides customers with online assembly videos.
Pro Battery is easily removable
The included battery of the Watseka XP can be removed with an ignition key, allowing you to easily switch battery packs between rides.
Pro Great customer support
The bike is provided with a 90 Day manufacturer warranty by Watseka, and the customer support that is provided by them is great. When the bike itself or a part (such as the battery) is faulty or suffers from a dead-on-arrival, a pick-up and replace process can be started - no need to pay for shipping costs.
Pro Extensive Gocycle Connect app, features anti-theft
The GoCycle G2 can connect to your smartphone and a companion app via a Bluetooth connection and allows improved customization of your bike and also monitors different aspects such as speed limits, power mode and battery life. You can also keep the bike itself up to date with the Connect app, as it's possible to update the bike's firmware through the application. In the case of a technical failure, the app is able to generate a maintenance log for future reference.
Another feature of the Connect app is the ability to upload custom maps: you can specify parts of that map where the Gocycle should provide motor assistance. In case of a stolen G2, the app allows the user to remotely lock the bike if someone else tries to pair with it.
Pro Great handling of the bike
The Gocycle G2 has a good weight distribution across the frame of the bike which results in a great handling of the device.
Pro Sleek and compact design
The Gocycle G2 features a sleek design with most elements such as the chain and battery integrated into the frame. Some parts such as the wheels can be dissembled as the G2 is quite modular in its nature.
Pro Good for commuting long distances without charging
The maximum range of the Gocycle G2 is measured at an impressive 40 miles (65 kilometers), an excellent result for a compact, foldable electric bike.
Pro Easily view battery life and speed on the steer
The remaining battery life of the Gocycle and the current speed can be read off the compact LED-display on the steer at all times.
Pro Low maintenance
Bike maintenance is almost non-existent with the G2. The chain is self-tensioning and built-in and doesn't require lubrication. The only thing that needs to be checked every once in a while is the tire pressure.
Pro Well constructed
The framework of the Gocycle G2 is entirely made out of magnesium which is a light, yet solid building material.
Pro Doesn't weigh much
The Gocycle G2 only weighs 35 pounds (16 kilograms) and is considered a light-weight electric bike. The weight distribution across the bike is also quite balanced for easier transport and better handling.
Pro Easily assembled
Assembling the Gocycle G2 is straightforward and only takes up a couple of minutes, as seen in this instructional video.
Pro Maximum speed can be adjusted via phone app
The official maximum speed of the Gocycle G2 is limited to 15.5 miles per hour (25 kilometers per hour), but this can be ramped up by using the official Gocycle companion app and setting a custom profile with speeds up to 25 mph (40 km/h). When using this adjustment, the Gocycle G2 is faster than the majority of all electrical bicycles.
Cons
Con Heavy to transport
The total weight of the Watseka XP bicycle weighs in at 72.5 pounds (a little over 32 kgs), which is significantly higher than some other electrical bikes such as the 51 lbs X-Treme Trailmaker. This is mainly due to the heavy battery, which weighs 22 lbs on its own.
Con Battery quality is questionable
Watseka has opted for lead acid non-lithium batteries, which are cheaper to produce but also less efficient and heavier. Lithium batteries also last longer, which results in a somewhat limited range of 18 miles (29 km) for the Watseka XP.
Con Difficult replacement of rear wheel
Replacing the rear wheel of the Watseka XP tends to be an issue, as special tools are required to take the sprocket off the rear wheel. This is a task that is better suited for specialized repair shops.
Con Doesn't support a high passenger and cargo weight
The maximum weight on the Watseka XP for the passenger and the cargo is 250 pounds (113 kilograms). Not only is the 250W motor too weak for higher weights, but according to the manufacturer, the seat is also not suited for larger riders. For comparison: other bicycles such as the X-Treme Trail Maker allow weights up to 350 pounds.
Con Very expensive
With a recommended retail price of $3500, the Gocycle G2 isn't exactly the cheapest option on the market. For example, Xiaomi is releasing a fully electric bike that's also foldable for a fraction of the cost - the MiJia Qicycle - while other brands are producing electric bikes with similar specifications at only a third of the Gocycle G2's price.
Con Doesn't support high passenger and cargo weight
The maximum total weight specified by Gocycle for the G2 is 250 pounds (113 kilograms), which is fairly low compared to some other electric bikes. They also specify that under this maximum weight of 250 pounds, the bike may not function properly. For example, the X-Treme Trailer Maker supports weights up to 350 pounds (159 kgs).
Con Produces annoying motor noise
The Gocycle G2 produces some audible front motor noise, especially when using the electric bike in more intensive situations (such as traveling at high speeds or when climbing an a steep surface).
Con Clumsy kickstand
The kickstand of the G2 is somewhat clumsy to use with your feet, as it is difficult to extend when stepping off the bike.