The Hypershell X Ultra S is a wearable AI powered exoskeleton. It has a 5,000 mAh battery, motors and arms that strap to the user‘s thighs. The device has a cycling capability designed to assist with pedaling. A 50 year old, 270 pound cyclist tested the Hypershell on a 6.5 mile hilly route against no assistance and against an Engwe LE20 e bike (120 pounds, torque sensor). The results showed that Hypershell did not significantly improve speed or heart rate compared to no assistance. The e bike provided the easiest ride (11.5 mph average speed, 100 bpm average heart rate). The reviewer concluded that for non athletes, an e bike is the path of least resistance. However, for former cyclists with a good bike who want to get back into riding, the Hypershell may be a good option. This review covers the test methodology, data results, cycling mode effectiveness and comparisons with e bikes.
Test Methodology
The reviewer conducted three rides on the same 6.5 mile hilly route in a Chicago suburb.
| Ride | Equipment | Assistance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ride 1 | Regular Trek bike (25‑30 lbs) | No assistance | Had to stop and rest for a few minutes near the end |
| Ride 2 | Regular Trek bike + Hypershell X Ultra S | Hyper mode at 50% power | Felt device pushing legs down; back sore after ride |
| Ride 3 | Engwe LE20 e bike | Torque sensor motor | Bike weighs 120 lbs |
The reviewer used a Pixel Watch 4 to track heart rate and the Asics Runkeeper app as a backup.
Test Results
| Metric | No Assistance | Hypershell X Ultra S | E Bike (Engwe LE20) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Speed (mph) | 9.5 | 9.6 | 11.5 |
| Active Time | 43:33 | 42:04 | 34:21 |
| Average Heart Rate (bpm) | 131 | 132 | 100 |
| Peak Heart Rate (bpm) | 145 | 144 | 116 |
| Light HR Zone (min) | 1:27 | 0:06 | 31:05 |
| Moderate HR Zone (min) | 11:43 | 7:52 | 3:37 |
| Vigorous HR Zone (min) | 30:21 | 33:40 | 0:00 |
Key findings
- Hypershell improved average speed by only 0.1 mph (9.5 to 9.6 mph).
- Hypershell reduced active time by only 1 minute 29 seconds (43:33 to 42:04).
- Average heart rate was almost identical (131 vs 132 bpm).
- Hypershell increased time in vigorous zone (30:21 to 33:40).
- E bike improved speed by 2 mph over Hypershell (9.6 to 11.5 mph).
- E bike reduced average heart rate by 32 bpm (132 to 100 bpm).
- E bike reduced active time by 8 minutes (42:04 to 34:21).
Hypershell Cycling Mode Performance
The Hypershell X Ultra S has a specific cycling capability. The motor attaches to arms strapped to the user‘s thighs, pushing the legs down during pedaling.
What worked
- Felt the exoskeleton actively pushing legs down at 50% power (Hyper mode).
- Did not have to take a break on the second ride (unlike the first ride).
- Felt better after the second ride than after the first.
What didn‘t work
- No significant improvement in speed or heart rate.
- Diminishing returns above 50% power (unit rocked back and forth, causing discomfort).
- Back felt sore after the second ride (may be due to exoskeleton or lack of cycling for 2 years).
Hypershell Vs E Bike: Which Is Better
| Aspect | Hypershell X Ultra S | E Bike (Engwe LE20) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | 1,999 USD | 1,000‑3,000 USD (midrange) |
| Weight Added | ~5‑10 lbs | 120 lbs |
| Installation | Strap on to body | N/A (whole bike) |
| Speed Improvement | +0.1 mph | +2 mph over Hypershell |
| Heart Rate Reduction | None (131 to 132 bpm) | 32 bpm reduction (132 to 100) |
| Best For | Former cyclists getting back into riding | Non athletes, casual riders |
| Requires Existing Bike | Yes | No (replaces bike) |
The e bike provided a much easier ride. The Hypershell did not meaningfully improve performance for an out of shape rider.
Pros And Cons Of Hypershell X Ultra S For Cycling
Pros
- Allows you to keep your existing bike (no need to buy an e bike).
- Cheaper than premium e bikes (1,999 USD vs 3,000‑5,000 USD).
- Straps onto thighs and back (no permanent modification).
- Hyper mode with adjustable power (50% worked best).
- Felt active leg pushing (subjective improvement).
- No break needed on second ride (unlike no assistance).
- Good for former cyclists who want to get back into riding.
Cons
- No significant improvement in speed or heart rate (9.5 to 9.6 mph, 131 to 132 bpm).
- Diminishing returns above 50% power (unit rocks, causes discomfort).
- Back soreness after riding.
- Not a replacement for e bike assistance (e bike reduced heart rate by 32 bpm).
- Expensive at 1,999 USD (many e bikes cost less).
- Requires training to see benefits (device augments skills, does not bestow them).
- Not for non athletes (e bike is path of least resistance).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can the Hypershell exoskeleton replace an e bike?
For non athletes, no. The e bike provided significantly better assistance (2 mph faster, 32 bpm lower heart rate). For former cyclists with a good bike who want to get back into riding, the Hypershell may be a good option.
How much does the Hypershell X Ultra S cost?
1,999 USD. This is below most midrange e bikes (which start around 2,000‑3,000 USD) and well below premium e bikes (5,000‑10,000 USD).
How does the Hypershell work for cycling?
The device straps to your thighs and back. A motor pushes your legs down during pedaling. You can adjust the assistance level (Hyper mode). The reviewer found 50% power optimal; higher power caused the unit to rock and cause discomfort.
