Why the Wallke X3 Pro is the eBike for Me (and Maybe for You)

In this video, I review my selection process for choosing the best eBike I could find for both preparedness and mormal-times use. The Wallke X3 Pro is near-perfect for my requirements, and might suit yours as well.
Timecodes:
00:30 The Selection Process
01:18 "Must Have" Features
02:46 The Wallke X3 Pro
07:58 Riding Experience
09:12 Customer Service
09:45 It’s Not Perfect...
10:33 ...But It's Close
12:18 Zero Emissions
12:38 Benefits of an eBike
13:48 Conclusion
Support website: www.desertprep.info
Wallke website: www.outdoorebike.com
10% discount code for channel viewers: desertprep
Tail Light / Brake Light - amzn.to/3oc0qEg
Handlebar Bike Mirror - amzn.to/3exA2jJ
Bike Bag for Rear Rack -amzn.to/3otxPdB
ABUS Granit 6500 Folding Lock - amzn.to/33GPpRV
Best way to pay: set up a free PayPal account so you can be billed on your credit card without providing credit card details to the seller. PayPal may also offer installment payments to make your purchase easier to budget.

[@vivietang8866]

that deep voice startled me at the beginning. anyway, mine is said to arrive this monday so this was helpful.

[@benbriscoe4091]

This is by far the most thorough and easily understood review on this bike. Idk how this only has 300 likes.

[@stockpilez8884]

Probably because it's clearly a paid promotion masquerading as an organic review

[@gensteel]

Probably one of the best youtube reviews I have come across. No fluff. No attempts at being humorous which usually translates as unecessary awkwardness. Outstanding book attached in the comments, solid information, to the point, realistic application, hyperlinked time stamps. Kudos to you. I subscribed to your channel and in over a decade of youtube usage I have an extremely small number of subscriptions. Good work. I also am intrigued by your perspectives in relation to a "prepper's" concerns. Again, good work.

[@jailbreakoverlander]

Yup Ebikes are a definite solid piece of kit. Im all over them.

[@over50nomads70]

Great video, I never really considered an E-Bike. But after watching this video. I will rethink my plan. Thanks for the great content.

[@DesertPrep]

Glad it was helpful!

[@markwolfe3488]

Just ordered mine based upon your excellent review and thank you so much for the discount code. That really pushed me over the edge to order it. Thanks again!!

[@PyroX676]

THANK YOU for such a concise clear and informative review. This has cemented my purchase decision and smoothed out a few issues I've had in selecting this over a subcompact folding bike. I just need to figure out how to fit it into the cab of my truck now.

[@charlieroderigues3886]

BEST professional detailed review I ever heard. Thank you sir.

[@danielerasmus9678]

Best video about e-bikes ever!! Thank you!!

[@BoogieReb]

I've got a little over 500 miles on mine. Charger died two weeks ago and with one email received a replacement in about 4 days no cost. Had a flat today, ordered a tube and slime from Amazon at 8pm last night and received items at 11:30 this morning and already back in the saddle. There is a Wallke FB group, that shares basic information as well as specific parts like better handling knobbie tires (my next upgrade). I also installed a mirror, and use a high lumen headlamp usb rechargeable strapped to handlebars to cut down battery drain. Thanks for the manual there are youtube videos but having info in one offline place is of benefit.

[@djbastetusa]

Thank you for such a detailed review. The manufacturer doesn’t even give us close to as much info as you did. I purchased the bike because of your review.

[@lachlanm3439]

EXCELLENT review! Thank you

[@lewerim]

Your videos are have great content and I love the production quality. Looking forward to the solar charging video.

[@DesertPrep]

Thank you!

[@rustynutz7158]

I just purchased an ebike. A yamee xl 750. I have the alot of the same features as your bike. I definitely need your manual for the complicated controller. No real instructions in my manual. Thanks for putting it together.

[@shawngrignon4020]

Nice review! Going to be keeping this one on my radar as I continue shopping around. Have you considered the Cyrusher XF-690 ebike? Seems very similar to yours, minus the more advanced display, and it's even cheaper at $2100.

[@ytgre7767]

Good too see your back posting videos again.. I'm sure I know what happen regular life got in the way..lol stay safe with the heat spell..

[@Jasonkarl12]

Great video. Thank you👍

[@DesertPrep]

Thank you too!

[@fitchmultz]

Just picked one up. Your videos were excellent and made it an easy choice.

[@fitchmultz]

Went with the grey but wondering if I should've gone with the yellow.. hmm

[@DesertPrep]

Congrats and welcome! Pleased to have a fellow rider. (I have the gray.) I think you'll really like the Rider's Manual at www.desertprep.info

[@fitchmultz]

@@DesertPrep reading through it now. Used your code. Much appreciated

[@2NDFLB-CLERK]

▪ You still liking it ? I'm having trouble finding the right choice 4 me. 🟥

[@marchills4131]

Great video review, especially since it's from a prepping perspective. Did you ever complete the solar charging set up for the ebike batteries? Would love to see that video. Thanks from another prepper.

[@mohamedalini3179]

great review video thx for the content.....it sucks tho this bike been sold out for 4 months now so frustrating :(

[@HughJassOne]

Great content is the solar charger video available yet?

[@VirtualJohnDoe]

A supremely superior review/ overview, best I've seen on any topic/ item on KZbin, thank you. I do have two questions: (1) To lower the seating height (for a 5'2" person) , could I take the seat post out and cut it by say - four inches (or use a replacement shorter seat post tube) , to make the post shorter and therefore not hit the factory (frame) post stop as soon as it would when using the factory seat post length when inserted into the factory (frame) seat post tube? In theory, this would bring the seat-to-ground distance down by a few inches. (2) Could I re-wire the "Thumb" throttle to be replaced by a "Twist" throttle? Simply a personal preference.

[@djbastetusa]

Great video. This bike has been the best bike I’ve ever had. My only complaint is I’ve had a lot of flat tires but it is what it is. I live in the desert.

[@2NDFLB-CLERK]

▪ This is the 3rd comment on here saying this,,, I think I'll pass on this one... 🟥

[@siegkukier6033]

How do you handle flats? Specially on the back tire? Other than carrying Slime? And, if so, would you recommend Slime in the tube as protection? Or only after a flat.

[@DesertPrep]

One item I didn't cover in the video is power regeneration. The controller allows for the use of motors that have the capability, but the geared rear hub motor on the bike doesn't support it. The real world reports indicate the amount of regeneration is pretty low (some estimates are 5%). If the bike had regeneration, I'd turn it off. This is because regeneration drains momentum from the bike so it can charge the battery. The bike is actually braking when regenerating, so you lose momentum that would otherwise be there for coasting. Due to the inefficiencies inherent in the cycle of regeneration, power storage and them re-powering the motor, you can't get back as much energy as you lose. You get less usable range extension than you lose from braking instead of coasting. Basically, you shorten the range of the bike.

[@Jazzzon777]

I'm looking at the Cyrusher XF690. Its slightly cheaper, has very similar specs, and is much easier to get shipped to me because I am living in Japan. Did this bike come up in your research? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[@chubley8248]

I was wondering what is your second choice cause it seems to have alot of the same specs as the Yamee fat bear which I have been looking at alot lately

[@MichaelBurko]

Great info! Just curious why you didn’t choose a mid drive motor bike?

[@DesertPrep]

I looked at mid-drive bikes, but chose the rear-hub drive for several reasons. First, mid-drive bikes use the chain and gear system to power the bike, so they're more complex to ride as gear selection will have a significant affect on torque, speed and power consumption. You need to monitor the ride and operate the shifter continually. Rear-hub drives don't involve the chain, sprockets or shifter for powered modes. Second, the much increased load on the chain and sprockets with mid-drive requires more maintenance to protect them. Third, the chain and sprockets (which are really engineered for human power) wear out pretty quickly under the high torque of motorized power, with reports of needing replacement in a thousand miles. That's less than a year for me, and seems like an issue, especially in the context of a possible grid-down future where replacements might not be available. Fourth, some mid-drives don't freewheel, so that means you're "pedaling" when the motor's engaged, whereas the rear-hub drive lets you stop pedaling (like you would for coasting), while the motor's fully powering the bike. This is a lot more comfortable. Some people with deep cycling experience prefer the fine control provided by involving the sprockets and shifter in the motor-power process. I've heard at least one say they'd never consider a rear-hub. For me, I'm happier to have solid and easy-to-use transportation, without concentrating on gear selection. As someone with years of experience with manual transmissions in cars, I'd say the mid-drive / rear-drive discussion is analogous to manual and automatic transmissions. Rea-hubs eliminate a lot of complexity, leaving you free to ride. For me, the rear-hub drive is the clear winner. It's easy to understand and operate, less taxing to ride, and gives plentry of power and control. Thanks for raising the question! 😊

[@aguynamedscott11]

This must be a popular bike. I checked out the website and it says they are sold out

[@shukhratjonturobov7323]

Hi 👋 why is this bike not in the Amazon system I did not find it in amazon???? Thencks

[@lectricride8803]

Interesting and well presented video. Ebikes are a useful and fun mode of transportation. They may contribute to extending survivability scenarios if the SHTF. They also can help people with mobility issues and/or health problems get places. Technology has it's uses. Every tool we can possibly use to survive isn't always realistic though. The best tools are still zero tech knowledge and education. My personal thinking is an Ebike would put a huge bullseye on anyone riding one post civilization collapse so I'd definitely use extra caution where and when I rode it. For example, unless you're traveling with a small army, urban riding would not be possible at all. If cash is not an issue it appears to be a good choice. If on a budget it's not a priority. Cool bike though.

[@MrYamaharider1]

I need help deciding on a bike seems like the Wallke X3 Pro is a good bike, but I also like this one. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[@USMC6976]

What trailer did you get?

[@ActivityPhoto]

My Himiway displays the speed while coasting even when the pedal assist is set to 0. Seems like the Wa;;ke people need to reprogram their system. Also I can program 0-9 pedal assist levels with the lowest being 20% great for slow riding.

[@siegkukier6033]

Thanks to your review I have ordered this EBike. What device would you recommend I get to haul my 105 Lb German Shepard dog? The one in you video looks perfect. Any recommendations?

[@ottoinct]

DoggyRide -- used one with my 80lb lab - they have a few sizes.

[@connorcameronjaggs]

Sucks that this bike is sold out now. I've seen an identical "unbranded" version on Amazon but I really don't trust buying it from there

[@luxuryxnoah2059]

Wow

[@fitchmultz]

Question about water resistance, should use in the rain be avoided? What about the screen and motor?

[@DesertPrep]

EBikes are fine to use in the rain. I'd certainly avoid snorkeling...

[@lav1daloca]

I saw there are different manufacurers fe Opeak or Cyrusher offering the same ebike. Is this the best ebike in this price point?

[@DesertPrep]

I examined several dozen eBikes as I was researching my choice. I did find less expensive alternatives, but nothing with the critical features I was looking for, and actually paid about a $300 premium to get payload, folding frame, rear suspension, hydraulic brakes, the excellent color display, thumb throttle and user-customizable controller. I couldn't find anything with all those at a lower price. I also didn't spot the same bike under another brand, although the practice is pretty common. I did get the manufacturer to offer a 10% discount for channel viewers, so your premium would be less. The Cryusher looks similar, but seems stripped down, without carrier, fenders, or high-end display / controller. It doesn't look as beefy as the Wallke, and one I found was on eBay (perhaps a resale?), another was on AliBaba at about $500 more than you'd pay for the Wallke. (I'm happy to venture an opinion, but I have no vested interest in anyone buying the Wallke or any other bike. However, my experience with the Wallke is first rate. I definitely recommend it.)

[@123gggyyy]

top speed?

[@ganeshkumarchiramshetti5587]

Your voice is my professors”s ahhh

[@lodwill5116]

Yes. But fer $400 less I got wildeway . Big 32ah battery. 750 watt 30 mph wow. Got 100 dollar code. It Is in this description. Hint has to do with battery.$ 100 of makes it$1299😮

[@cal4625]

Too bad they don't sell a step-thru version.

[@jtnoodle]

bike website is dead.

[@onceANexile]

It should come with a SOLAR PANEL!!!!

[@DesertPrep]

LOL

[@onceANexile]

@@DesertPrep joking

[@torjones1701]

Okay, questions. eBikes are obviously batter powered. As a prepper, we prepare for Bad Things to happen. Assume, for a moment, worst case scenario. You've just survived the collapse of civilization. You're running around on your eBike. The battery now needs to be replaced because it's just not holding a charge any more, and neither is your spare. Stockpiles of batteries aren't an answer because even batteries in storage go bad after a time. How do you replace the battery now? If you can't replace the battery, do you now just put up with the fact that you basically no longer have an e-bike? What about the shocks? They go bad over time, just like they do in cars. How do you fix/repair/replace those shocks?

[@DesertPrep]

I think you have a different view than I do. Nothing will last forever, but I intend to exploit whatever's available as long as possible. I'm not swayed by an argument that says, effectively, "no point in having the bike for the five years the battery will last because sometime past that time it won't work as well".

[@torjones1701]

@@DesertPrep My point wasn't that you don't get the eBike, it's that we need to figure out a way around the problem of the battery going bad. It's not a problem I've found a satisfactory solution to yet, hence why it was a question rather than a statement of opinion. My own personal bike doesn't have shocks as it's not something that I can repair. I'm trying to reduce the number of points of complete failure to a minimum in my gear so that I can either repair or replace everything. Motors can be re-wound, magnets can be re-magnetized, bearings can be repacked, but I'm still working on batteries. Replacing them with lead acid seems to me to be rather unsatisfying as a solution...

[@jasonjayalap]

@@torjones1701 You're going to make your own chains when they wear out? Your own sprockets? Pedals? Ok, Your bike will last much longer than an ebike without new industrial input, maybe you'll be scavenging non-rusted chains for the next 50 years for an uncomfortable but better-than-walking bike, but I don't think Desert Prep is preparing for the that situation.

[@DesertPrep]

@@torjones1701 Got it. My wife and I have both the eBikes and some very good mountain bikes which we now consider as backup. In the worst-case scenario, already-manufactured material will still exist, and I expect we can scavenge or trade for much of it. Since there's a number of the Wallke eBikes within our own group, we'll be able to cobble together components to keep the bikes working for some time. To your point, our mountain bikes will continue to be available past the lifespan of the eBikes, and are kit we can share within our group as needed.

[@torjones1701]

@@jasonjayalap Yes, actually, I can make my own chains, sprockets, and pedals. Pedals are ridiculously easy to replace and can be fashioned from wood if necessary. As an amateur blacksmith with a half decent metal shop, I can quite literally make new chain and new sprockets. It's not even that difficult, just a bit repetitive to make chain. Any idiot, once they are taught the process, can make sprockets. I'm sure a reasonably intelligent person could figure out how to make a new sprocket based on the old one if they think about it for a few minutes. But, if you actually bother to keep your chain and sprockets clean, they'll last a lot longer to start with. That's something else people are going to have to learn to do in a collapse situation, maintenance. Rather than running it over to the bike shop for every little foible, gotta take care of it yourself. I've never considered my bike to be uncomfortable either. I've got a spring loaded seat and cushioned hand grips. What more do you really need?

[@p-m--essing441]

You're not going 50-60 miles with a 14ah battery.

[@wk4max]

Won't be no Electricity in the Zombie Apocalypse!

[@babybirdhome]

Plenty of sun, wind, ocean tides, streams, waterfalls, and geothermal energy everywhere you look. Harnessing them effectively is less trivial, but well within the realm of possibility. You’d be surprised how little technology is required to make usable electricity.

[@000036754]

Sorry but I have this bike it is too much money for this bike, after 120 miles i already have probleme with the battery and the brakes...the quality is just not there compared to other bike costy less money...the assist system is dangerous as it reacts too slow...

[@Hampsterz]

It’s great till you get a flat tire

[@denison5357]

1st

[@jasonmelo9379]

Serious vocal fry

[@markbernhardt6281]

Terrible bike for a prepper.

[@onceANexile]

CHINA...

[@gerry4585]

When these bikes coming to the uk??....