It’s not often that a superior quality product costs the same as an average one, but that’s exactly the model that Mark2 is aiming for with the launch of its brand new X-Cross 450 eBike. The step-through design uses ultra-lightweight components in its core build to make it easy for anyone to ride. Specifically if you are older or smaller, then this eBike has been designed with you in mind. In addition to that, it is being offered with an ‘early-bird discount’ of £700. WhichEV took a closer look at this offer.
The frame itself has been built using an aircraft-grade aluminium alloy, referred to as 6061 in the industry. It’s strong enough to come with a five-year warranty, yet only weighs 2.5kg before assembly begins. With electric motors, we’re always keenly aware of Newton’s Second Law, which tells us that the force needed to accelerate something like an eBike, is directly related to its mass.
The wheels are also made from a lightweight alloy and come with Schwalbe Spicer Plus twin skin puncture-resistant tyres. Both the 10-speed derailleur gears and hydraulic disc brakes have been supplied by Shimano – the later with stainless steel rotors. While not totally tool-free, you can release the front wheel and seat quickly, either for adjustment or security.
The battery and motor come from Denmark. The Promovec rear hub motor is rated at 250w (36v) and delivers 45Nm of torque – which is enough to let anyone enjoy an assisted ride around town or on country roads.
Ed Thomas, owner of Mark2 Electric Bikes, explained the reasoning behind the design: “At Mark2 Electric Bikes, we believe that cycling should not only be a fun and exciting pastime full of adventure, but also that the excitement and adventure should be accessible to as many people as possible.
“Regular cycling comes with a whole host of physical and emotional health benefits; alongside multiple social benefits – keeping you fit and healthy whilst providing a great sense of wellbeing,” he explained.
For Mark2, it made perfect sense to design an electric bike that’s easier for more people to enjoy. Maybe they are in recovery or rehabilitation for an injury, perhaps they have limited mobility or maybe they are older and simply want to ride a bike comfortably, without the need to struggle.
“By their very nature, electric bikes are typically considered more accessible than manual bikes; the X-Cross 450 hybrid electric bike just takes that accessibility to an even greater level,” explained Thomas.
The X-Cross 450 hybrid electric bike is the step-through version of Mark2’s best-selling design and is positioned as a premium quality eBike ideal for town and city commuting or general leisure riding.
This is a road legal UK specification eBike, which means with all the assistance provided by the motor it is still classed as an ordinary bicycle, which in turn means no registration, road tax or licence would be required to ride on UK roads. With up to 50 miles of assistance, it’s worth thinking of the savings you could make with your daily commute – especially given that the vast majority of car journeys are less than 5 miles.
“Delivery is scheduled for November 2021,” Thomas told us. “So we’re offering a limited number of X-Cross 450 eBikes with a substantial discount of £700. That will get you a top-quality £1,899 eBike for only £1,199.”
There are several choices when ordering, for example swept-back handlebars, an upgraded saddle, carrying rack, powerpack upgrade and options for a large LED screen – so if you want a level of customisation, then it might be worth calling Mark2 directly.
It's good to see local businesses, run by enthusiasts, creating high-quality products at affordable prices.