Let's Talk: ProdecoTech Phantom XR Electric Bicycle (With Angela)

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Overview:

The  ProdecoTech Phantom XR is an aggressive-looking, affordable options that can be considered the “Black Beauty” of Prodeco’s line. The Phantom XR is a part of a larger Phantom series that also features a foldable bike as well. Featuring a 600W Geared motor and a distance per charge of 25 - 30 miles with a top speed of 20 mph, the Phantom XR is more than enough for any fun-loving cruiser - all for $2,199.

As with any bike, you’ll want to make sure that you chat with a dealer, check out the product videos, as well as the reviews and technical aspects.

Specs:

Angela's Review:

The Phantom XR can be considered my personal favorite of the Prodeco line. Fun, aggressive, and beastly are three adjectives for the XR. The XR looks and feels great, and has been designed for many riders. This budget-friendly bicycle could be a great investment for riders who want to go the distance with their charges while cruising and who want to have a speedy bike to make those quick runs to the store or work.

What are the limitations?

As with all electric bicycles, there are certain legal limitations. Since electric bikes are newer it can be difficult to place them on a legal scale. While you may not need insurance, you will definitely want to check out your local speed regulations in your state.

Besides that, the Phantom XR e-bicycle sports an entry-level component set and an aluminum frame with geometry more in line with beach cruisers than a standard MTB. ProdecoTech’s frame design, while allowing for the bike to be more budget-friendly, means that it isn’t intended for hard riding. The Phantom XR would not be the bike for riders who enjoy going over curbs or flying high off dirt mounds. (It’s just best to stick to the roads with these guys.)

What I like:

• The battery located in the downtube of the frame allows a nice riding balance
• Seat is relatively comfortable
• Twist throttle feels more in control
• Less flashy, more function
• Solid-feeling

What could be improved:

• The size is a little intimidating, starting for riders at 5’8” or higher
• The overall look screams “off road” but the intended use is for urban roadways

Final Thoughts?

Overall, the Phantom XR is my top choice from the ProdecoTech line for riders who are looking for a bike that focuses on function rather than flash. Not only is the Phantom XR fast, but it looks and feels like a stable bike. I can take a quick trip to the store knowing that I won’t have to worry about being unbalanced because of the urban-designed Continental tires and having the battery in the downtube of the frame. For shorter riders, it can be a little difficult to place your leg over onto the other side of the bicycle, so in some cases a step-through frame may be a better option. Also, for a bike that screams “Take me off roadin'” but only sports entry level components, I would almost wish to see this bike either more robust for light off road use or more urbanized.

Rating:

Scale of 1 to 10, would I ride the Phantom XR again? 9 tiny bicycles out of 10.