Troxus Trax LT Review | Torque or Cadence? You Choose!

The graphic above explains our typical Range Test method and the Troxus Trax LT’s results. We were satisfied with the bike’s results for two reasons: first, we were able to meet and exceed Troxus’ advertised range of 55 miles, which shows that the brand’s estimate was realistic. Second, because 38-60 miles is extremely practical for a daily commuter.

Compared to other commuter e-bikes we’ve tested previously, the Trax LT’s results were relatively average in the low-power test and above average in the high-PAS test. At the time of writing, the average minimum and maximum range for the commuter e-bike category is 30.4 and 58 miles.

Based on the LT’s 350W motor and 480-watt-hour (Wh) battery, we expected that our PAS 5 test would last roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes and yield results of approximately 24.5 miles. Our real-world results of 38 miles in 2 hours and 11 minutes showed a significant increase of over 55%!

We attribute the bike’s efficiency to its torque sensor; in this mode, its motor output fluctuated to reflect our tester’s pedal effort. We would expect the bike’s results in its cadence-sensing mode to be closer to our initial estimate based on its specs, as in that mode, its motor output is constant and consistently higher.

In terms of practical use, we expect most riders to be able to get multiple round trips on the bike before needing to recharge when using it as a daily commuter. We’re extremely satisfied with its performance; its range is appropriate for work or leisure riding. We were also satisfied by its recharge time of roughly 5 hours with the included 2-amp charger.

As with our previous test sections, our Hill Test method is explained in the graphic above. The Trax LT’s 350W motor was unable to power the bike up our test hill using only its throttle. Our tester, Justin, successfully pedaled to the top in PAS 5. We performed this test using the bike’s torque sensing mode.

We were unsurprised that the Trax was not successful in the throttle portion of the test; we have yet to test a bike with a 350W hub motor that completed this trial. The Trax LT’s motor peaks at 50 Newton meters (Nm) of torque and (going by the controller) up to 720W; this was simply not enough to conquer the difficult challenge of Hell Hole Trail.

When comparing the bike’s pedal test results to those of other models with 350W hub motors, it was roughly 13 seconds slower than average. We attribute this difference to weight; the Trax weighed 60 lbs, whereas its competitors weighed between 45 and 50 pounds on average.

To be clear, the Trax is relatively light for an e-bike, and in our opinion, it felt lighter than the scale showed! However, its added weight clearly made a slight difference in its performance.

We consider the bike’s throttle to be best used for a break when pedaling; as shown in this test and our Speed Test, it’s not likely to help get through an intersection or climb anything but small hills. On larger hills, riders can take advantage of the bike’s cadence-sensing mode to make the task slightly easier.

I tested both sensor modes at our secondary location, called Pilot Hill. The torque mode test was faster (1:46 vs. 1:48) because I had to keep a rapid pace to avoid losing momentum. The cadence-sensing mode, however, felt noticeably easier.

The Trax LT was effective in making climbing easier, but prospective buyers should keep in mind that, regardless of assist setting or sensor mode, it is likely to require active pedaling when traveling uphill. Case in point: most of the other city cruiser e-bikes we have tested used more powerful 500-watt motors and were faster in this test.

With its 350W motor, Troxus seems to have intended the bike to have a more natural pedaling experience. We found that this felt appropriate for the Trax LT’s style, even if it meant a bit more legwork.

Using the method described above, we determined that the Trax LT’s average stopping distance was 23’0”. This result, while well within our normal and expected range of results, is slightly longer than the average for commuter e-bikes (currently 22’4” at the time of writing).

In practice, the bike’s Tektro E3520 hydraulic brake system felt great. The system uses 2-piston calipers paired with 180 mm rotors, which is a good match for its size and weight.

Still, I felt compelled to dig deeper into our data to discover why the Trax LT took longer to stop than the average commuter.

There are three main factors we consider when analyzing Brake Test results: brake specs, bike weight, and tire width/tread pattern. With the brake system already discussed, the bike’s 60-lb weight was lower than average and therefore easier to stop. Its tire size and style are common for commuter e-bikes, so nothing seemed out of whack.

In an experiment, I pared down our data to the city cruiser sub-category of commuters. This group’s advertised stopping distance was 22’10”—very much in line with the Trax LT’s results.

This suggests that the upright riding position of city cruisers slightly reduces their braking efficiency, but not to an unsafe degree; we consider the Trax LT to be specced well with brakes that perform effectively.

Ride quality is a blanket term for the combination of factors that influence a bike’s feel and operation—essentially, what it’s like to ride. We consider the Trax LT’s ride quality to be great, though there is (admittedly slight) room for improvement.

In terms of sizing and fit, we were pleased to note that the bike is available in two frame sizes: a small for riders between 5’0” and 5’7” and a medium fitting those from 5’7” to 6’3”. We tested the medium, which felt appropriate for my height of 5’11”, with room to spare for taller riders.

The Trax LT’s adjustable stem allows riders to tailor the bike’s fit to their preferences. With the stem angled forward, users can adopt a more forward-leaning riding position. Conversely, with the stem set vertically, the riding position can be more upright. Personally, I preferred the upright seating position due to some back issues, as it alleviated pressure.

I found the curved handlebars, cushioned saddle, and rubber grips to be comfortable as well; I was able to enjoy long test rides without any soreness.

The bike’s user interface was simple, colorful, and easy to read and understand. A large button pad made for simple operation and a color LED display inevitably gave the bike a nicer feel than a traditional black-and-white screen. I also appreciated the added touch of its included road animation that played when the bike was moving.

Troxus included fenders, a headlight, and a 55-lb capacity cargo rack with a taillight/brake light. We appreciate these features, as they are well suited to commuting, but considering the Trax LT’s price of roughly $1,600 (at the time of writing) and its display’s compatibility, we hope to see turn signals included in the future to increase the bike’s safety factor.

Critique aside, we found the Trax LT’s nimble handling and comfort to be some of its defining characteristics—in addition to its ability to effortlessly switch between cadence and torque sensing modes by holding its ‘+’ button.

Riders might choose the torque-sensing mode to extend their range or enjoy a natural-feeling, analog-like pedal experience. The cadence-sensing mode might instead be selected for easier control over the bike’s speeds or a less-intensive uphill experience.

The Trax LT blends many of the features we expected for its city cruiser style with an uncommon level of customization over its ride. It was comfortable, fun, responsive, efficient, and quick—all features we greatly appreciate on a commuter.

We learned that the bike performed well in all areas of our testing; the few areas where it differed from other city cruisers and commuters came down to its lighter level of pedal assist. Ultimately, the bike proved capable, and we liked the analog-like user experience.

We wouldn’t mind a more powerful throttle to help users get started at an intersection or travel over medium-to-large hills, but we enjoyed the bike’s natural pedaling experience. We also appreciate its included commuter essentials, but we hope to see the addition of turn signals to supplement those features in the future.

In summary, we think the Trax LT is likely going to be a good fit for commuters seeking a highly comfortable, nimble, and responsive ride. It would also be well suited to leisure riders who prefer not to need to charge the bike after every ride. Regardless of use, it is likely also best for those who enjoy active pedaling.

Thanks to its high level of comfort and switchable torque/cadence modes, we feel that the Trax LT is likely to appeal to a wide range of potential riders. It offers uncommon features at a competitive price point, and while the bike has minor areas with room for improvement, we believe it offers good value and performance for its current cost.

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