We recently covered the launch of the JackRabbit OG2 Pro and XG Pro electric bikes, which added more range and power to the existing micro e-bike lineup from JackRabbit. Having spent a few weeks testing the XG Pro myself, I can attest to just what that means from the perspective of someone with saddle time doing things you wouldn’t have thought possible on a micro e-bike.
To get a sense of what I mean, check out my video review of the JackRabbit XG Pro below.
Or keep reading for my full written thoughts on this fun, high-performance ride stuffed into the body of a much smaller-than-expected micromobility device.
JackRabbit XG Pro video review
JackRabbit XG Pro tech specs
Motor: 749 geared rear hub motor
Top speed: 20 mph (32 km/h) – or faster 24 mph (39 km/h) in off-road mode
Extras: Thumb throttle, 90-degree fold-flat rotatable handlebars (in high-rise format), foldout Mega Metal footpegs, bell, LCD display, kickstand, LED lights that run off the main batteries, plus plenty of optional accessories
What’s new and different?
Don’t forget to check out my article on the launch to see what makes this model so different from the original JackRabbit XG. But to summarize, the XG Pro gets a more powerful motor, larger brakes, high-rise handlebars, wider tires, faster top speed, bigger batteries, and just generally feels like a major upgrade in simply every way.
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A lot of those upgrades go a long way towards turning this into a highly competitive bike on more than just convenience. Now, the XG Pro competes on performance as well.
Previously, JackRabbit’s big claim to fame was that its bikes were more convenient. They were smaller and lighter while still offering 20 mph speeds, and that was the big advantage. However, you paid for it with limited range and lower power. Now, however, the JackRabbit XG has massively upgraded the range to over 48 miles (77 km) with the inclusion of not just one but two of JackRabbit’s RangeBuster big-boy batteries. These have nearly 2.5x the capacity of the standard airline-friendly batteries offered by JackRabbit and the resulting range is more than you’d find in many heavier e-bikes with similar battery capacities.
JackRabbit XG Pro: Seriously powerful and torquey
I don’t have a lot of hills to test when I do my riding in Florida, but I can say that the 749W motor will easily wheelie me if I’m not careful (no doubt aided by the short wheelbase), and so the torque is appreciable.
I can also tell you that I towed nearly 100 pounds (45 kg) of kayak and camping gear for around 10 miles, including up sandy berms that might not have been crazy steep but were a serious test of the bike’s ability to climb an off-road grade at slower speeds (i.e. without the benefit of momentum).
So let’s just say that the power and torque are there, and you’re not going to struggle to climb a medium-sized hill.
At the same time, the small footprint and lightweight (for an e-bike) 37-lb design meant that I could strap it to my kayak and take it camping on an uninhabited island that is inaccessible by motorboat. That’s a whole other story, though. Maybe I should write a separate article on that adventure?
The 20 mph (32 km/h) top speed of the previous JackRabbit models also got a boost on the XG Pro up to 24 mph (39 km/h), though only in the new Off-Road Mode. To access this, you can’t simply pop into the display menu and choose the “More speed, please” option. You have to first reach out to JackRabbit and sign a waiver that also includes confirming that you are over 18 and pledge to only use the mode on true closed course, off-road scenarios. From there, you get access to the unlock, which is so convoluted that no one will ever discover it on accident. If you are explicitly told how to do so (which I’m not sure how it won’t eventually leak online), you wouldn’t be able to figure it out from mere button-mashing.
In unlocked mode, the JackRabbit XG Pro’s 24 mph top speed gives higher-performance riders more of what they are looking for, truly unleashing those 749 watts for peak performance.
How well does it ride?
There’s no suspension on the bike (unless you opt for the add-on suspension seat post), but you do get 2.8 inch tires that put more air volume between you and the road. That results in a better ride that isn’t as jarring as you’d expect on a small, non-suspension bike.
If you’re doing actual off-roading, which I highly recommend because of how fun it is on the JackRabbit XG Pro, then you’ll be rising out of the saddle anyway much of the time. In the same way that you drop the seat on the mountain bike because you won’t be using it much of the time anyway, you stand on the pegs and let your bent legs serve as suspension when you approach bigger obstacles.
With the knobbier off-road tires, you also get better grip, though the little bike wants to turn so hard that I am still worried about losing it in a few corners on loose gravel and sand. In my own testing, I covered plenty of different types of terrain, finding grassy fields to be my favorite place to ride the XG Pro. It did fine on gravel and sand too, but the looser terrain also had me feeling a bit squirrely, and the short wheelbase likely contributed to that. But back on grassy pasture to hold the loose soil together, I could fly around at nearly top speed and feel solid.
Who is the JackRabbit XG Pro for?
With its off-road credentials spoken for, I still think the XG Pro has plenty of room left for on-road riding. As a commuter, I can see the XG Pro being a fast, long-range option for a super convenient micromobility device. The included LED lights make it highly visible to other road users at night, and the small size means it can fold up and stow away in an office or apartment.
In fact, I really love the sideways-turning handlebars that spin 90-degrees for even more compact storage. With the bars turned and footpegs folded, the entire bike is a mere 7 inches (18 cm) wide, something you could never claim with an e-bike.
So in my opinion, the XG Pro is great for anyone who wants to enjoy the trails on the same bike they use to get to work or class, and doesn’t have the space in their life for anything bigger. You’ve got to enjoy looking different though, as it’s always going to be a unique and somewhat weird-looking ride compared to what most of us consider a ‘normal’ bike or scooter.
Is it an e-bike?
That brings me to a common question regarding all of the JackRabbits. Are they even truly e-bikes? By definition, probably not. JackRabbits don’t have pedals, instead opting for lighter and more compact foot pegs. That means that the JackRabbit is technically in the class of seated electric scooters.
However, the company refers to it as a micro e-bike, and I’m inclined to agree largely on the basis that it rides and feels like a bike, especially considering that most Americans use their throttles on their e-bikes almost all the time anyway. The pedals on most e-bikes these days are just glorified footrests that have the ability to spin, so JackRabbit basically said, “Enough with the charade,” and took away that rarely used ability.
The fixed footrests on the Jackrabbit remove the bicycle definition, but I can attest to the JackRabbit still feeling like a bike, even if you can’t pedal it. It leans into turns like a bike and feels like a bike when riding over obstacles because it uses a bike’s handlebars and wheels instead of the smaller scooter handlebars and wheels common among scooters.
So much like the Romeo and Juliet cliche, this is basically the rose by any other name situation. It still smells as sweet, and it still rides as good.
Is the JackRabbit XG Pro worth it?
I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again: If you’re looking for the best dollar-per-watt bargain, then move on. JackRabbit will never be the answer for you. These bikes cost a premium. The XG Pro is the new flagship model and is priced at an eye-watering US $2,249. The OG2’s $1,249 looks downright fiscally responsible by comparison.
But then again, JackRabbit isn’t trying to compete on price. Despite now matching other popular e-bikes on power, speed, and range, it will always be a more expensive alternative due to the company’s unique design that requires them to invest in building their own major components. They don’t benefit from off-the-shelf frames and batteries. Instead, they’ve invested the hard work in engineering new designs, not to mention paying for the tooling to make that happen. You can’t ask for innovation at the price of mediocrity.
For anyone on a budget, there are cheaper ways to get the same speed, power, and range. But there aren’t lighter ways to do it, or more convenient ways, or (in my opinion) cooler-looking ways. And that’s the whole point of JackRabbit. These bikes were originally designed as the perfect solution for college students getting around campus. And after many years and many new models, the company has grown into a fun solution for so many different types of people who share the same basic needs: a small yet potent e-bike-like vehicle for getting around without taking up too much space. Now, everyone from students to professionals ride them, and they’ve become a favorite among RVers, boat owners, private plane pilots, and anyone who needs a super-compact ride.
So in my opinion, the question of whether or not the JackRabbit XG Pro is worth it comes down to whether you want these capabilities in this form factor. You can find it for cheaper, but it’s not going to be as small or lightweight or slick. That’s the magic sauce at JackRabbit, and when you ride it, you damn well feel that magic.
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Blink Charging’s (Nasdaq: BLNK) new partnership with Eco-Movement will make Blink’s EV chargers a lot easier to find across multiple platforms.
Eco-Movement is a global platform that collects, refines, and maintains a massive real-time database of public and semi-public EV charging locations and pricing data. That info is used by some of the biggest names in the industry. Now, Blink is tapping into Eco-Movement’s platform to make its chargers way easier to find – whether you’re searching on Google Maps, asking your voice assistant, using a charging app, or navigating from your car’s dashboard.
As new Blink chargers come online, Eco-Movement updates its database of EV charging locations in real-time, and that information is incorporated by mapping and charger-finder apps. That way, EV drivers are kept up to date.
Mike Battaglia, president and CEO at Blink, said, “The leading mapping apps trust Eco-Movement and its state-of-the-art, quality-checked, and constantly updated data. We are excited to be teaming with them to ensure drivers worldwide can easily find our chargers and receive up-to-the-minute updates on charger availability.”
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Eco-Movement’s global database includes detailed charging point info – like addresses, operators, pricing, accessibility, truck compatibility, and real-time availability – along with roaming partners, membership rates, and payment options.
“Ultimately, this data will help EV drivers all over the world to find their next charging stop, which is a mission we share with Blink,” said Roderick van den Berg, CEO of Eco-Movement.
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Headlining today’s Green Deals is the second phase of EcoFlow’s ongoing Mega Sale, which is not only expanding the lineup of power station deals that are up to 65% off, but also continuing the EcoCredit rewards, adding bonus savings, and dropping prices on several units for new lows. Among them, we spotted the DELTA Pro bundle with two 220W solar panels and a protective bag going lower than ever to $2,279. Next, running as part of Hiboy’s Easter Sale, the brand is launching its new cargo-capable U2 Pro Electric Scooter with a 34-mile range at $600 off. Lastly, we have Goal Zero’s Sherpa 100AC 25,600mAh 100W Wireless AC Power Bank that features five port options, a wireless charging pad, and solar-charging capabilities at $200 alongside a counterpart model. Plus, all the other hangover Green Deals are in the links at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s ongoing Lectric XP Trike bundle, and more.
EcoFlow expands lineup with up to 65% off power stations during second phase of Mega Sale starting from $119
EcoFlow has shifted to the second phase of its ongoing Mega Sale through April 25, with up to 65% taken off power stations and solar generator bundles, complete with extra savings, EcoCredit rewards, and upcoming flash sale offers. One returning bundle that is dropping lower than ever is the DELTA Pro Portable Power Station that comes with two 220W solar panels and a protective bag for $2,279.05 shipped, after using the code 25EFMFAFF at checkout for a bonus 5% off. Normally fetching $5,096 at full price, we’ve seen this same bundle go as low as $2,374 in past sales, which is getting beaten out here today. With the bonus savings you’ll be scoring $2,817 off the going rate here, which lands the package down at the lowest rate we have seen to date.
Before we jump into the specifics of our headlining deal, let’s go over the bonuses we’re seeing during this Mega Sale’s second phase. First, while you would normally have to spend at least $2,500 to score the automatic 5% in extra savings, you can instead score it on orders under that amount thanks to the exclusive code 25EFMFAFF at checkout. From there, you’ll bump that amount to 7% off automatically on orders of $5,000 or more. There are some exceptions though, which you can get the full list of by hovering over the extra savings sections on the page. We’re also seeing the continued EcoCredit rewards here, with 3x the EcoCredits from purchases for standard members and 3.5x EcoCredits for Plus members.
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The EcoFlow DELTA Pro is one of the most popular and expansive options for backup power support from the brand, with this solar generator kit being quite the start-up for your needs that can be further invested in and built up over time. The LiFePO4 batteries start with a 3,600Wh capacity that you can further expand up to 25kWh with future investments in add-on equipment. Its 14 ports dish out 3,600W of power output, which will cover most appliances, with things surging up to 7,200W to ensure essential devices stay running.
Plugging the power station into a wall outlet will have the station’s battery recharged in 1.8 hours, or you can refill its capacity in 2.8 hours should you have the maximum 1,600W of solar input available (with the 440W here obviously taking more time). Keeping track of its settings and monitoring charging statuses doesn’t have to keep you nearby either, as the companion app gives you the full array of remote smart controls you’d expect, it just takes a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection.
***Note: The 5% sitewide coupon has not been factored in to the prices below, make sure to enter the code 25EFMFAFF at checkout to score the maximum savings!
You can browse the full lineup of EcoFlow’s second phase Mega Sale by following the link here to the landing page – and remember, you have through April 25 to take advantage of these deals. Be sure to also keep an eye out for the upcoming 24-hour flash sale offers too.
Hiboy launches new cargo-capable U2 Pro e-scooter with a 34-mile range and 25MPH top speed at $900 ($600 off)
Running as part of its Easter Sale, Hiboy is launching its brand new U2 Pro Electric Scooter with a significant discount to $899.98 shipped along with a handy free device for its upkeep. This all-new commuting solution will carry a $1,500 price tag normally, but it’s hitting the ground today with the very first chance at cash savings here. You’ll be getting a 40% markdown while these savings last, cutting $600 from the tag and setting the bar for future deals down the road. What’s more, you’ll even be getting some free gear too, as it comes with a 2-in-1 tire inflator and vacuum device that is valued at $70.
Hiboy’s new U2 Pro Electric Scooter is cruising onto the scene with a sitting-oriented design that carries a 265-pound payload, as opposed to the usual standing frames we see from the brand. The 750W motor here peaks up to 810W in order to tackle inclines up to 20 degrees, delivering a top speed of 25 MPH. The 48V 13Ah battery provides enough juice to carry you for up to 34 miles on a single charge, with a 3.5-inch thick memory foam seat for added comfort during your journey. The whole thing comes with an IPX4 water-resistance rating that protects it from light rain, humid conditions, and other situations where it may be splashed with water.
This cargo-capable e-scooter comes with a larger footboard, which you could secure groceries or even a pet carrier to while also sporting an integrated rear cargo rack that can be further used for packages or to carry a passenger thanks to the inclusion of a removable cushioned seat. Among its other stock features, you’ll find 16-inch all-terrain snow tires that maximize grip on whatever surface your riding along, as well as a 125mm rear suspension, dual 160mm disc brakes, a 70 lux headlight, a break-activated taillight, a twist throttle, a key ignition, conveniently integrated controls along the left handlebar, and a large 7-inch display for real-time information at a glance.
Hiboy has added a banner to its main site stating that it will be increasing prices in the future, so be sure to check out the full lineup of deals in its Easter Sale while costs are still kept this low.
Goal Zero’s Sherpa 100AC 25,600mAh 100W 5-port wireless AC power bank accompanies you anywhere at $200
By way of its official Amazon storefront, Goal Zero is offering a chance to score its Sherpa 100AC 25,600mAh 100W Wireless AC Power Bank at $199.89 shipped. This model, which is one of the few we’ve seen sporting an actual AC port, has been more recently keeping to $250 after falling from its original $300 MSRP back in 2024. While we did see it go as low as $177 during Black Friday and Christmas sales, it’s mostly stayed above $210 over the last year, with today’s deal providing a solid $50 markdown that lands it at the fourth-lowest price we have tracked – $23 above the low.
Coming in a durable anodized aluminum form factor with impact bumpers along its edges, the airline-approved Goal Zero Sherpa 100AC has been designed to accompany you anywhere while also being packed with a significant amount of port options for juicing up your essential devices. It totes a 25,600Wh capacity and among its many output options, you’ll find a 100W AC port that can surge up to 150W, a 100W USB-C port, a secondary 60W USB-C port, two USB-A ports, and it even provides 15W wireless charging to your smartphone. It can recharge its own battery at up to 60W speeds, taking two hours via a wall outlet while also providing up to 50W solar-charging capabilities that will refill the battery in three to six hours.
If you’re not really in need of the AC port option in the above model, you can save a bit more by going with Goal Zero’s counterpart Sherpa 100PD model for $159.89 shipped, down from $200. You’ll be getting much of the same performance capabilities for output charging and input recharging, with the difference here being fewer ports, specifically two USB-C ports and a 60W in/100W out USB-C port, as well as the 15W wireless charging.
The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.
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A relatively young, handcrafted British EV automaker, RBW EV Cars, is celebrating an $8 million milestone as it expands its vehicle production to North America to deliver its two flagship models to US consumers. These bespoke BEVs with British design heritage in mind look like they are extremely fun to zip around in. See more below.
RBW Electric Cars was founded in 2017 by Peter Swain, who spun the business out from his restoration company RBW Classic & Sports Cars after seeing the potential of EVs with modern technology designed within a classic car aesthetic.
Swain then established a cooperation with Continental Engineering Services (CES), which helped develop and build a “proof of concept” for BEV. One year later, RBW launched its first prototype, which was followed by a driving sampler in 2019 before the start of production of RBW’s first EV, the Roadster, in Britain in February 2020.
By January 2022, RBW had delivered its first Roadster EV to a UK client before securing an investment to scale its production processes in the summer of 2023. That following fall, RBW opened its new UK EV factory before officially launching its second model, the RBW GT, in December 2023.
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Now, RBW Electric Cars is moving across the pond, making good on plans announced a year ago to establish a second hub to operate and build in the US to provide BEVs for consumers in North America.
RBW EVs breaks ground on US production site in Virginia
Per an update from RBW EV Cars today, it has officially broken ground on its new US production facility, lo9cated in Danville, Virginia. Today’s milestone follows an update in late 2024 that RBW had secured a deal with the state to build its new $8 million state-of-the-art production facility.
When complete, the 29,000-square-foot US hub in the rendering above will be home to RBW’s EV assembly, sales, and marketing operations. It will also be the new home to the entire team at Spirit EV, which developed and provides the turnkey EV powertrain solutions used in both the Roadster and GT models. Swain spoke about RBW’s latest milestone and its collaboration with Spirit EV:
RBW EV Cars has dedicated nearly a decade to developing bespoke electric vehicles that honor classic British design while delivering cutting-edge electrification. From the beginning of its operation, the company has been focused on bringing a global EV platform to market that could transcend how automakers design and engineer their own platforms. This is where Spirit EV comes in. We will now have R&D facilities in both the UK and US.
According to RBW EV Cars, its US operations will be led by former NASCAR driver and Danville native Peyton Sellers. Sellers will oversee the production of the UK automaker’s left-hand drive versions of the Roadster and GT EVs, both of which are currently scheduled to see only 50 US deliveries each in 2025.
Both RBW EV models deliver up to 150 miles of estimated range, a top (limited) speed of 90 mph, and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 8 seconds. Brand new, built examples of the Roadster start at £108,000 ($143,00) in the UK. We don’t have US pricing yet, but RBW did share plans to unveil “additional product development initiatives and future vehicle lines” this coming fall.
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