Jackrabbit XG Review, 2024

To test the JackRabbit XG’s battery life, we performed a Range Test in Eco and High modes. This entailed riding the bike along a network of paved bike paths until its charge expired, with Strava tracking our mileage. In High, we traveled 13.9 miles over the course of 50 minutes, while Eco allowed us to reach 19.5 miles after 1 hour and 29 minutes.

In most cases, we do not test throttle-only range, so this test leaves us only the JackRabbit OG (which typically means “original gangsta,” for those unaware) to compare to. With its single throttle setting, the original version traveled 9.5 miles in 45 minutes – but it had half the XG’s battery capacity.

As another of its upgrades, the XG (or “extreme gangsta,” we assume?) includes dual 36V, 151.2 Wh batteries to increase its range. As our test results show, this additional battery did its job by adding an additional 10 miles of potential distance when riding in Eco mode.

With twice the range, the XG is far less limited in its capabilities than the OG. Instead of being functional only for short jaunts across campus or down the street, we think it is likely to be a capable commuter – or with its off-road tires, perhaps even more adventurous.

Not only were we pleased with the bike’s performance when compared with its sibling; we were also satisfied with its motor’s efficiency. Based on its motor and battery specs (500W of nominal output and 302.4 Wh of capacity), we estimated that our High mode test would take 36 minutes with a result of roughly 12.3 miles. Our actual results show that the XG was more efficient than expected, as we measured a 39% increase in time and a 14% increase in distance.

For those seeking even more range (and who doesn’t want that?), JackRabbit released a new optional accessory after we completed our testing. This new, larger “Range Buster” battery extends beyond and straddles the battery port. With a capacity of 340 Wh, the brand advertises that each battery can provide a range of 24+ miles (the XG has the capability of holding two for a max of 48+ miles). We didn’t have the opportunity to test this new battery, but considering the established accuracy of their advertised range for the XG, we have no reason to doubt the brand’s claims for the Range Buster.

With its increased power, we had high hopes for the XG and were not left wanting; the bike climbed the paved path at Hell Hole Trail successfully in 2 minutes and 3 seconds.

While this result is slower than average for a 500W rear-hub motor (at the time of writing, this average is 1 minute, 48 seconds), the difference of 15 seconds is relatively small – and well within our expected range of results.

It’s worth noting that the XG uses a 36V drive system, which, while not uncommon, isn’t able to send power from the battery to the motor as quickly as a 48V system. This results in the motor having less “fuel to burn” at any given time, therefore resulting in an overall slower speed.

Another contributing factor to the XG’s performance was the peak output of its motor. The rear-hub can produce a maximum of 590W and 35 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. While this output is enough to complete a challenging climb, the maximum wattage and torque figures are relatively low for a 500W motor.

It may have taken a few seconds longer to reach the hill’s summit, but the fact that the XG reached the top should not be overshadowed by its speed. We think it’s easy to look at this fun-sized bike and be doubtful of its capabilities, but of course, one shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.

The XG clearly has enough muscle to climb just about any hill it comes across – and considering that the previous version of the bike was unable to complete this test, we call this a big win for JackRabbit.

We tested the JackRabbit XG’s brakes to determine if they were a good match for the bike’s weight and speed. After performing our Brake Test using the process described above, we calculated that its average stopping distance was 28’-2”, which shows some room for improvement.

Our test bike was equipped with a mechanical disc brake system made up of parts from at least two brands: Bolids and Power (the brake levers were unbranded). This style of brake, while generally considered less effective than a hydraulic system, is often adequate for lightweight e-bikes in the 30-40 lb range. In this case, however, the JackRabbit XG has two things working against it.

First – and most importantly – with such a short wheelbase, strong brakes could actually be a downside. If its brakes are too powerful, the rider could end up being carried over the handlebars by inertia.

Second – brakes from name brands like Tektro and Shimano often perform better than their lesser-known counterparts.

To be fair to the brand and the bike, we found that the XG’s brakes felt decent under normal application. When performing our Hill Test at Hell Hole, for example, we first had to get down the hill in order to test whether the XG could make it back up. Going too fast down that path is dangerous, but the mixed mechanical brake system on the XG allowed us to modulate our speed effectively.

Ultimately, while we hope to see an improvement in results in the future, the XG’s brake system functioned properly. We feel that as long as its rider is operating the bike responsibly, this system should be effective.

First, comfort: the bike features a great-feeling CHIFA leather saddle that I found extremely comfortable after hours on the bike. Like the JackRabbit OG, the XG uses foldable pegs for foot placement. These felt sturdy and stout, even as a rider with large feet. The bike’s standard rubber grips were pleasantly squishy but otherwise as expected.

In terms of fit, the XG is advertised as being able to accommodate riders from 4’-9” to 6’-6”. Few bikes can fit such a broad range of users with a single frame size, but the XG has one clear advantage. With no pedals, riders need not be concerned with proper leg extension – they simply need a comfortable seat. Our tallest and shortest testers (Michael at 6’-5” and Kaleigh at 5’-4”, respectively) enjoyed their rides in comfort and style, proving JackRabbit’s advertised height range completely on point.

The overall feel of the ride ranged from lively to relaxing. In Eco, the bike’s cruising speed was a comfortable balance between getting us where we needed to be and allowing us to enjoy the scenery. In High, the ride was a bit more thrilling with punchier acceleration and a more energized feel.

Regardless of power level, the XG’s handling was incredible! With such a short wheelbase, we could almost literally turn on a dime, and with its robust motor, the bike could easily power through turns.

With a low-profile off-road tread pattern on its 20” CST tires, the XG can handle some light dirt or gravel roads. There is no suspension that comes standard, though the 2.4”-wide tires help to smooth some dips and bumps.

Those looking for more cushion shouldn’t fear, however – the bike is compatible with an unexpectedly broad range of accessories including a suspension seatpost. In addition to the aforementioned shoulder strap (see the opening paragraphs of this JackRabbit XG review), owners can add fenders, a cargo box or basket, a cup holder, and even a trailer with a 100-lb carrying capacity.

The included accessories are sparse but essential; the XG comes with a small but effective headlight and a tail light with flashing brake light functionality. These are both plug-and-play with short cords that can be connected directly to ports in the frame, making them easy to remove if desired.

The XG is available in four standard color options, including Red, Black, White, and Yellow. JackRabbit’s OG model can be customized with Limited Edition colors and graphics, so we hope to see these options extended to the XG down the road.

The XG boasts a number of upgrades over the OG – and carries an increased price to match. With an extra battery, it has literally twice the range. With a more powerful motor, riders have access to bigger thrills and improved climbing ability. And while JackRabbit added some weight and increased the wheelbase, the XG is still impressively maneuverable.

In terms of test performance, the XG demonstrated many of the capabilities we often associate with full-size e-bikes. It impressed us in our Speed, Range, and Hill Tests – and while we hope that JackRabbit can improve its braking performance in the future by including a stronger, name-brand system, we understand the challenges that are inherent with the bike’s size.

For now, though – we think JackRabbit’s newest offering is as practical and versatile as ever, with the ability to serve as a fun and easy way to get around your city, neighborhood, college campus – or wherever you need to go.

Magical elixirs of immortality might only be works of fiction, but a healthy mental state is at least half of the battle. We find that getting in touch with your inner child is a great way to boost quality of life, and what better way than adding a daily dose of unbridled joy? The JackRabbit XG is certainly a step in the right direction!

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 JackRabbit XG down in our comments section.