EKX GTS / X22 Review

EKX EBIKE GTS / X22 Review & Buyer’s Guide

EKX X22 Top Speed, Specs & Sur-Ron Comparison

If you are searching for a high-power e-dirt-bike, try EKX electric dirt bike GTS X22. One of the top choices for 72V dirt bikes with 8000W motor dirtbikes. Engineered as a powerful Sur-Ron ebike alternative with functional pedals and a street-friendly profile.

The EKX GTS X22 is positioned as a high-performance electric dirt bike (e-dirt bike) designed for off-road trails, steep hill climbs, and high-speed riding. Below is an organized, comprehensive breakdown covering real-world test results, detailed specifications, safety features, and solutions to common buyer concerns about this EKX electric bike for adults.

EKX GTS Quick Overview & Specs

  • Model Names: EKX GTS / EKX GTS X22 / EKX X22 Electric Dirtbike

  • Price: ~$2,499 (tax and shipping included)

  • Top Speed: ~52 mph

  • Motor: 6,000W continuous / 8,000W peak rear hub motor

  • Battery: 72V 30Ah lithium battery with intelligent BMS

  • Tires & Wheels: 19-inch wheels with 70/100 off-road tires

  • Brakes: Ketech 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes

  • Suspension: Adjustable front forks (compression) and rear shock with compression, rebound, and damping controls

  • Drivetrain: 8-speed cassette with functional pedals

EKX GTS X22 Performance & Review

GTS X22 Frame & Suspension

Unlike cheaper models on the market, the EKX e dirt bike frame features a precision-machined rear linkage with sealed bearings on all pivot points rather than standard bolts. This construction ensures smooth articulation, reduced wear, and high frame rigidity during hard trail riding.

Speed, Power & Handling

The 8,000W peak hub motor on this EKX electric dirt bike delivers impressive low-end torque for hill climbs, wheelies, and off-road trails. Reaching speeds up to 52 mph, it allows riders to keep pace with mid-drive electric motorcycles like the Sur-Ron, Talaria, or E-Ride Pro.

Street Legal Profile & Pedals

Equipped with functional pedals and a 3-position height-adjustable seat, the EKX GTS bridges the gap between an e-bike and a full-size e-moto. While manual pedaling at 50+ mph is impractical, the pedals offer peace of mind when riding near bike paths or commuting through town.

Real-World Off-Road & Track Performance

  • Speed & Acceleration: Tested with a 310 lb rider, the e dirt bike reached 52 mph on flat pavement, with smooth, linear power delivery that eliminates jerky “whiskey throttle” launches. Lighter riders (under 180 lbs) can expect higher speeds exceeding 55+ mph.

  • Hill Climbing & Torque: Tested on extreme gradients from a complete stop. The GTS X22 handled steep, paved city inclines at 31 mph and conquered loose dirt, muddy embankments, and grassy hills with minimal initial momentum.

  • Suspension & Nimbleness: Features fully adjustable front and rear suspension (preload, compression, and rebound tuning). During trail testing over tree roots, rocks, mud, and water puddles, the chassis maintained high stability and agility.

  • Emergency Braking: Using motorcycle-grade KT 4-piston hydraulic brakes running DOT 4/5.1 fluid, the bike came to a complete stop from 20 mph well within a 19-foot emergency test zone.

FeatureSpecification
Motor Output6,000W nominal / 12,000W peak power
Battery72V 30Ah (charges to 84V full charge)
Tested Top Speed52 mph (310 lb rider test) / 55–62 mph (lighter rider estimate)
Tested Range~21+ miles hard off-road riding (~50% battery remaining)
SuspensionInverted front fork (compression adjust); rear oil coil shock (compression & rebound adjust)
BrakesKT 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes (180 mm, 5.1 mm thick rotors, DOT 4/5.1 fluid)
Tires & Frame19-inch knobby dirt bike tires; lightweight aluminum frame
Weight & CapacityBike weight: 124 lbs; Max weight capacity: 330 lbs
Pedals7-speed Shimano gear setup (functional / camouflage styling)

Recommended Upgrades & Mods

Derailleur Removal & Chain Tensioner: Removing the stock 8-speed derailleur cleans up the handlebars and prevents chain drops during rough off-road riding. Installing a single-speed chain tensioner maintains optimal chain tension without shifting issues.

Direct Mount Stem & Bars: The cockpit accepts standard Sur-Ron compatible direct mount hardware. Replacing the stock setup with a direct mount stem, wider handlebars, and an ODI front number plate improves control and ergonomics.

Grips: Upgrading to ProTaper grips requires selecting 1-inch throttle tube compatible options.

EKX X22 Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Outstanding price-to-performance ratio compared to $4,000+ EKX mid-drive electric bike.
  • Adjustable compression/rebound suspension tailored for heavy or light riders
  • Top speed of ~52 mph with strong torque for climbing and trail riding.
  • Pedals provide a street-friendly appearance for local commuting.
  • Compatible with widely available Sur-Ron aftermarket handlebar parts.
  • Motorcycle-grade 4-piston hydraulic brakes with thick 180 mm rotors
  • UL certified power electronics by TÜV Rheinland

Cons:

  • Hub motor weight distribution cannot fully match the mid-drive balance required for extreme technical singletrack.

  • 30Ah battery offers decent range, though a 40Ah pack would provide better endurance at high speeds.

  • Stock handlebars have a flatter profile that taller riders may want to swap for a higher rise.

  • KTM motorcycle-style seat is firm and geared toward active off-road stand-up riding rather than long-distance sitting.

Final Verdict

The EKX BIKE GTS / X22 offers impressive performance, strong frame rigidity, and reliable high-speed capability under $2,500. For riders seeking an affordable, fast electric bike for city commuting and light off-road trails, it stands out as one of the best value hub-motor options on the market today.

Who Is This Electric Dirt Bike For?

  • Off-Road Trail Explorers & Thrill Seekers: If you need raw torque to conquer steep mountain inclines, loose dirt, and deep mud pits, the 12,000W peak output and 72V system deliver effortless power,.

  • Heavy or Tall Riders: Verified to haul a 300+ lb rider up steep grades at 30+ mph and reach 52 mph on flat ground,. Lighter riders can easily break 55–60 mph.

  • Riders Wanting Tuning Control: Fully adjustable front and rear hydraulic suspension allows riders to dial in compression and rebound for their exact weight,.


Who Should Pass?

  • Strict Street Commuters: If you need a standard Class 1/2/3 electric bicycle for paved city bike lanes, the GTS X22 is too powerful and heavy. While it includes “camouflage” pedals, it operates as a full off-road electric motorcycle.

  • Casual Pedalers: Pedaling this 124 lb bike manually is impractical; the pedals exist primarily for aesthetic compliance or emergency maneuvering rather than human-powered riding.

Is the EKX GTS X22 a good Sur-Ron alternative?

Yes. While it uses a rear hub motor rather than a mid-drive belt/chain system, the X22 electric dirtbike matches similar top speeds (~52 mph) and offers strong off-road torque at a significantly lower price point.

Where can you find EKX dirt bikes for sale, and how much do they cost?

The EKX e-bike dirt models are sold directly through the official EKX website, with the GTS / X22 priced at approximately $2,700 including tax and shipping.

 

Does this EKX electric bike for adults have pedal assist (PAS)?

No, it does not include pedal assist. The pedals are purely mechanical, allowing riders to pedal manually at lower speeds or maintain a legal e-bike look while cruising in city areas.

Is this electric dirt bike legal on streets or local neighborhood trails?

The GTS X22 features functional 7-speed pedals and street-friendly options (headlight, tail light, brake light, and horn) . However, due to its 12,000W peak motor output and 50+ mph speeds, it operates primarily as an electric moto / high-power off-road machine. It is best suited for private land, designated OHV dirt trails, and rural fire roads

How does the battery safety system and park (P) mode work?

  • Safety Lock / P Mode: The cockpit control pad automatically defaults to “P” (Park) mode when turned on or left idle for a few seconds. Squeezing the brake lever instantly engages the active throttle mode, preventing accidental acceleration.

  • Removable Lockable Battery: The 72V 30Ah pack locks securely into the frame with a key to prevent movement while jumping or off-roading. It can be charged directly on the bike or removed for off-site charging.

Is the bike too heavy or difficult to handle for trail riding?

  • Weighing approximately 124 lbs thanks to its aluminum frame, it is substantially lighter than traditional gas-powered pit bikes or full-size dirt bikes while keeping center-of-gravity low for technical tight-woods maneuvering.

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