The Ariel Rider X-Class Performance Edition is a versatile, powerful electric bike designed for riders who want both speed and range without sacrificing comfort. This review explores everything you need to know about this Class 2 eBike, from specifications and battery life to real-world performance on city streets, trails, sand, and hills.

Class 2 eBike with Upgradable Speed

The X-Class comes as a Class 2 eBike, meaning it is throttle-powered up to 20 mph with five pedal assist levels. However, through a third-party app called Bike Go Plus, owners can unlock higher speeds, reaching beyond 40 mph, making it one of the fastest eBikes in its category.

Weight and Payload

• Weight: 116 lbs
• Maximum Payload: 320 lbs
  This makes it a sturdy choice for riders of various sizes and cargo needs.

Pricing and Warranty

At the time of review, the Performance Edition retails for around $2,799 and includes a one-year warranty.

Rider Fit and Color Options

• Recommended Rider Height: 5’5″ to 6’3″
• Color: Only available in sleek black

Motor and Torque

• 60V, 750W sustained rear hub motor
• Unlockable up to 3000W for maximum power
• Torque: 132 Nm, ideal for hill climbs and quick acceleration

Battery Setup: Dual Battery System

The X-Class features two removable batteries:

• Lower battery: 60V, 20Ah, 1200 Wh
• Upper battery: 60V, 15Ah, 900 Wh
  Totaling 2100 Wh, this dual battery system provides exceptional range, with estimates between 85 to 105 miles per charge depending on usage.

Charging Details

• 3 Amp charger included
• Full charge time: approximately 6 to 7 hours
• Batteries removable for convenient off-bike charging

Frame and Suspension

• Frame length: 70.7 inches
• Suspension: Dual crown inverted front forks with 100 mm travel (adjustable compression)
• Rear shock with 80 mm travel (adjustable rebound and stiffness)
  This setup balances comfort and control on varied terrains.

Tires

• Front: Anova 20 x 4.5 inches
• Rear: Anova 20 x 5 inches
  The extra-wide tires offer excellent traction and stability, both on-road and off-road, including sand.

Braking System

• Hydraulic four-piston brakes
• Large 203 mm rotors front and rear for stopping power

Handlebar and Controls Layout

• Left side: Double locking grip with leather cover and palm rest, front brake lever, lighting console, and controller
• Right side: Front brake lever, half-twist throttle (not limited by pedal assist level), and optional bell

Display and Lighting

• Full-color LCD display with battery indicator, speedometer, pedal assist levels, trip info, and Bluetooth connectivity
• Lighting includes bright daytime running light, low/high beams, turn signals front and rear, and brake lights
• Turn signals and horn integrated into handlebar controls

Advanced Display Settings

• Multiple pedal assist configurations (5 to 9 levels)
• Speed limit settings (locked at 20 mph via display but unlockable via app)
• Password protection and automatic shutdown timer options

Unlocking Full Speed Potential

Using the Bike Go Plus app, riders can connect via Bluetooth to:

• Increase speed limit up to 62 mph or higher (max 99 mph setting available)
• Monitor battery status, trip data, and other bike diagnostics
  Note: The bike defaults back to 20 mph speed limit after each shutdown requiring re-unlock or alternate app settings.

Urban Riding and Throttle Use

The X-Class excels as a moped-style eBike, with throttle control independent of pedal assist. It’s not ideal for pedaling alone due to its weight (116 lbs), but the throttle provides smooth and immediate acceleration up to and beyond 40 mph, allowing riders to keep pace with traffic comfortably.

Display Visibility

One downside is the display’s low brightness, making it challenging to read in overcast or bright sunlight. Future models could benefit from improved screen visibility or different glass treatment.

Off-Road and Sand Handling

The wide Anova tires and suspension absorb bumps well, providing a smooth ride on trails and sand. The bike powered effortlessly through sand tests, proving capable for beach rides and rough terrain.

Hill Climbing Capability

With 132 Nm of torque and powerful motor output, the X-Class easily conquered steep hills with up to a 31% grade. Both throttle-only and pedal assist modes made climbing effortless.

Braking Performance

• At 20 mph: Stopping distance about 25 ft
• At 30 mph: Approximately 50 ft
• At 40 mph: Around 70-75 ft
  The hydraulic brakes provide reliable stopping power, though the heavy weight of the bike naturally extends braking distances at higher speeds.

Mileage Achieved

The reviewer logged over 44 miles on a single full charge using mostly throttle. The dual battery system offers long-distance riding with minimal range anxiety.

Battery Indicator and Trip Meter Limitations

The battery indicator uses bars without voltage or percentage details, making it hard to estimate remaining range precisely. The trip meter resets after each bike shutdown, which can be inconvenient.

Seating Position

The seat is wide and plush, tapering toward the front for comfort during long rides. The riding position allows some knee clamp on the tank for stability but remains relaxed for daily commuting.

Suspension Feel

The 100mm front and 80mm rear suspension absorb bumps well, contributing to a comfortable ride on rough roads and trails.

Handling and Tires

The wide tires provide excellent traction and cornering stability, with minimal road noise and a planted feel on pavement.

Build Quality and Branding

The bike shows heavy branding from Aerial Rider, with logos on the frame, tires, brakes, handlebars, and display, ensuring it’s unmistakably recognizable.

Weather Resistance

The X-Class has an IP65 rating, protecting it from water splashes and rain, suitable for various weather conditions.

Convenience Features

• Two sets of keys for battery removal
• Motorbike-style fenders front and rear
• Mounting points for bottle cages or locks
• Front fork protectors and arched handlebars for control

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Powerful dual battery system with long range
• High top speed unlockable via app
• Comfortable seat and suspension setup
• Robust hydraulic brakes and wide tires for stability
• Bright, integrated lighting including turn signals and horn
• Hill-climbing power and off-road capability
• Strong build quality with water resistance

Cons

• Heavy weight limits pedaling ease
• Display visibility issues in low light or bright sun
• Battery rattling noise needs fixing
• Trip meter resets on shutdown
• Speed unlock resets after power off requiring app reconfiguration

Final Thoughts

The Ariel Rider X-Class Performance Edition is a standout eBike for riders seeking a moped-style electric bike with serious power and range. Its dual battery system, combined with a high-torque motor, delivers the capability to conquer hills, sand, and city traffic with ease. While it’s heavy and not ideal for pure pedal-only riders, the throttle-driven acceleration and comfortable ride make it a practical choice for commuting and recreational riding.

The bike’s extensive lighting system and water resistance make it suitable for day or night use, and the robust suspension ensures comfort across diverse terrains. Some minor issues like display brightness and battery noise aside, the X-Class offers excellent value for riders wanting speed, range, and reliability.

If you’re considering an eBike that can handle serious distance and speed while providing comfort and style, the Ariel Rider X-Class Performance Edition deserves your attention.