Evelo Galaxy Lux Review | Awesome Tech Makes Riding Easy

Range is one of the most important factors in choosing an e-bike, so we tested the Galaxy Lux in two scenarios: once in Boost mode (highest assist) and once in Eco mode (lowest assist), to give a realistic idea of what you can expect depending on how hard you ride the motor.

Evelo quotes a maximum range of up to 55 miles, and we came reasonably close to that. In our max-power test, the bike covered 31.3 miles before the battery tapped out. In Eco mode, we reached 48.2 miles.

Range is hard to label as strictly “good” or “bad” — it really depends on your riding needs — but I was especially impressed by the efficiency in the max-power test. It outperformed both the all-bike and mid-drive averages in our database for watts per mile. The Eco-mode result was more middle-of-the-pack, but as we saw in the speed test, even Eco still delivers meaningful assistance that makes pedaling noticeably easier.

One important battery-related note: the Enviolo transmission only functions when the bike has power. I never recommend running any e-bike to empty, none of them are pleasant to ride that way, but with this setup it’s especially important. If the battery dies completely, you’ll be stuck pedaling in whatever gear ratio you were in last, and with a heavier e-bike, that could make for a long trip home.

While many modern e-bikes use fully frame-integrated batteries, the Galaxy Lux keeps its pack rack-integrated. It’s still removable for charging or quick swaps if you have a spare, and while it does put a bit more weight over the rear tire, most riders won’t notice any handling quirks unless they’re also maxing out the rack’s 55-lb cargo capacity.

Bottom line: if 30+ miles sounds like enough for your rides, and you keep a little buffer so you don’t lose your shifting as well as your motor, this battery and range setup should serve you well.

Cruiser e-bikes are a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to hill climbing. The style is more known for riding in comfort and joy, rather than being hill-dominating machines. So the results here largely made sense.

In our throttle-only test, the Galaxy Lux wasn’t able to complete the full climb, stalling out about 40% of the way up. We did have a few kinks we were working out with the shifter at the time, so we’ll retest again later and update the review.

With maximum pedal assist, it made the climb in 2 minutes and 35 seconds at an average speed of 11.7 mph. That’s a bit slower than both our current all-bike average of 2:04 and the cruiser category average of 2:15.

Given the motor’s 105Nm torque rating, I initially expected a faster result, but I think the tuning reflects the bike’s overall theme of comfort and approachability. Instead of throwing all that torque and wattage into blazing hill speeds, it uses that power more strategically by keeping a steady, persistent output as long as you’re pedaling. There’s no quit in the system, but there’s no rush either.

If your goal is to fly up steep hills, then something like the Evelo Atlas might be more up your alley. However, if you’re looking for reliable, consistent support to reach the top, nearly 12 mph on a hill this steep is still a respectable showing.

As for shifting performance, the AutomatiQ system adapted well on moderate climbs and remained helpful here, though on an extreme grade like this, a manual override could have offered a slight advantage. For typical inclines, however, it handled gear changes smoothly and effectively.

The Galaxy Lux delivered standout braking performance, stopping in an average of 17 feet, 3 inches. For context, as of this writing, our current all-bike average is 21 feet, 11 inches, and the cruiser category average is 22 feet, 4 inches. Not only is that well above both averages, it’s also a top 10 result I’ve recorded out of more than 257 e-bikes tested!

This result exceeded my expectations. Tektro makes solid brakes, but the Galaxy Lux uses a 180mm front rotor and 160mm rear. It feels like a step down from the dual 180mm setups we often see. Still, several factors work in its favor. For one, it has a lower center of gravity from the frame and tire design. It’s also got a wider contact patch thanks to the tread pattern, and it’s lighter-than-average weight. At 57 lbs, it’s relatively light for an e-bike.

We tested a previous version of the Galaxy Lux a few years ago when it had Zoom brakes, and that model delivered an average result. The switch to Tektro Aurigas has clearly paid off.

These brakes provide strong bite when you need it, with the ability to stop on a dime, but they’re also well-modulated — allowing smooth, gradual slowing with just a light squeeze.

The tech package on the Galaxy Lux is one of its biggest selling points. The Gates belt drive and Enviolo CVT hub deliver exactly what they’re designed to — a simple, low-maintenance “hop on and ride” experience that pairs seamlessly with the motor and should hold up for thousands of miles.

Comfort is another standout. The upright riding position keeps the body relaxed, and with a 15” standover height, the bike is approachable for just about anyone. The stem isn’t adjustable, so it’s best to stay within the quoted rider range for the most natural fit, but accessibility is clearly a strength here.

Handling is a pleasant surprise for a cruiser. The narrower handlebar and 24” wheels give the Lux a more purposeful, precise feel than the wide, laid-back steering you get from traditional beach cruisers. It’s still easygoing, but more responsive when you want it to be.

Aesthetically, the bike has a clean, modern look. It’s a little disappointing that there’s only one color option at this price point, but at least it’s a sharp one. Practical touches like the included fenders, integrated lights, rear rack, and bottle-cage mounts round things out nicely — though turn signals would have been a welcome addition.

Finally, Evelo’s warranty deserves recognition. Few brands back their bikes as strongly: four years or 20,000 miles on the frame, motor, transmission, display, and controller, plus two years on the battery (with prorated replacement options extending coverage under certain conditions). For a premium-priced bike, it’s reassuring to see coverage that goes well beyond the industry norm, and it comes from a company with more than 13 years in the business. That kind of track record inspires real confidence.

I’ve tested hundreds of e-bikes over the years, and I must admit, some of them start to blend together. But the Galaxy Lux stands out. This isn’t your average cruiser, or even your average e-bike, for that matter.

The tech package is impressive — it’s a smooth, well-integrated system with a ton of real-world benefits. It’s low-maintenance, clean, and super easy to operate. Simply power it on, select your PAS level, and let the CVT and automatic shifting take care of the rest. It’s a heightened cruiser experience for sure.

The ride quality is great, too. It handles well, feels lighter than most e-bikes in its class, and is just genuinely enjoyable to ride.

Now, there are a few modern touches I’d love to see in future versions, such as more color options, turn signals, or expanded programming features. At this price point, those extras would help it feel even more complete.

But overall, this is a thoughtfully designed, high-quality ride, and one that makes a lot of sense for specific riders.

If you’re a smaller to medium-sized rider, someone looking for minimal maintenance, or if it’s been a while since you last rode a bike, the Galaxy Lux could be a great fit. It’s a premium e-bike experience that’s simple and smooth, yet refreshingly different.

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Evelo Galaxy Lux down in our comments section.