Gazelle vs Lectric E-Bikes: Which Should You Choose?

• A more natural feeling when you ride
• Comfort over longer distances
• A more premium feel

Lectric is better if you want:

• A lower price point
• Simple, easy-to-use performance
• A practical bike that covers everyday needs

Gazelle is a long-established Dutch electric bike brand known for comfort and reliability.

Most Gazelle models use Bosch mid-drive motor systems such as the Bosch Active Line Plus or Bosch Performance Line motor. These motors are widely used and known for their smooth, consistent performance.

Bikes typically include:

• Front suspension
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• An in-frame battery with a removable battery
• Built-in lights and a rear rack

Many models also feature a low-step frame or step-through design, making them easy to use day to day for more people.

Lectric is all about commitment to accessibility with affordable electric bikes that are simple to ride and easy to own. Most models use hub motors, which deliver power more directly and feel more immediate when riding.

Folding designs are a big part of the lineup, especially in the XP range, which are useful if you don’t have much storage space or need to transport your e-Bike regularly. Most people find that Lectric bikes are less refined than Gazelle, but they’re simple and effective.

Gazelle’s mid-drive systems deliver power through the pedals, using torque sensors to match your effort. The assistance feels smooth and natural, especially if you’re used to riding a regular bike.

Lectric’s hub motors feel more immediate. The motor assist comes on quickly, especially at higher pedal-assist levels, providing more noticeable assistance with less input.

Gazelle feels smoother and more controlled. Lectric feels more direct and easier to pick up straight away. It’s best to try both types to see which one suits you best.

Gazelle integrates its batteries into the frame while still offering a removable battery for charging. This can be useful for people who have to leave their bikes in garages, outside, or shared spaces. Lectric bikes usually use removable batteries mounted externally on the frame.

Both brands offer sufficient battery capacity for everyday riding, with differences more evident in design and feel than in how far they will take you.

Battery design is another area where the two brands differ. For example, Specialized typically integrates the battery into the frame. This approach creates a cleaner appearance and can improve weight distribution, balancing the bike better. It also protects the battery from damage, dirt, and debris.

Some lighter Specialized SL bikes can take a range extender battery, which you mount externally if you ride long distances regularly.

Lectric bikes usually use removable batteries mounted externally on the frame. This allows you to remove the battery for charging or storing indoors, which can be useful for people who have to leave their bikes in garages, outside, or shared spaces.

Both approaches work well, and the better option often depends on whether you prefer integrated design or removable convenience.

Gazelle is the clear winner here. The upright geometry, front suspension, and smooth assistance make these bikes easier to ride for longer periods.

Lectric bikes are more basic. They’re comfortable enough for shorter rides, but the ride quality is less refined. So, if you ride long distances and can put up the extra cash, you may be better off looking at a Gazelle e-Bike.

Gazelle puts a lot of emphasis on integration and overall finish. The frames are clean, with the Li-ion battery neatly built into the design rather than feeling added on. Accessories like integrated lighting, full fenders, and a standard rear rack make the bikes feel complete straight out of the box. The riding position is upright and relaxed, which fits the brand’s focus on everyday comfort.

Lectric takes a more practical approach. The design is simpler and more functional, with visible components and fewer integrated elements. Folding frames are a big part of the lineup, which makes storage and transport easier. The controls are straightforward, and the bikes are designed to be easy to set up and use without much adjustment.

Gazelle feels more refined and cohesive. Lectric feels simpler and more convenient.

• Gazelle does not currently offer a dedicated electric cargo bike in its U.S. lineup.

• Gazelle does not produce electric mountain bikes, as the brand focuses on city and commuter riding.

Choose Gazelle for a smoother, more comfortable ride that holds up over time. It’s better suited to riders who value consistency and overall quality.

Choose Lectric if you want an affordable, easy-to-use bike that covers everyday needs without a high upfront cost.

If you’re comparing Gazelle and Lectric, one challenge is finding the right model in stock, especially if you want to compare different types of electric bikes side by side.

That’s where Upway can be useful.

Instead of choosing between a lower-cost new bike and a higher-end one at full price, you can look at certified pre-owned electric bikes from brands like Gazelle at significantly lower prices. That often makes premium models much more accessible than they would be otherwise.

There’s also the convenience factor. You can browse everything online, compare different bikes side by side, and have one delivered directly to your door, rather than relying on what a single local shop happens to have in stock.

Each bike is inspected by professional mechanics before being listed, so you’re not just browsing used bikes; you’re looking at models that have been checked and prepared for riding.

You also get:

• A 1-year warranty
• A 14-day return period
• Delivery that arrives mostly assembled