Review: Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD - An Aggro All-Mountain eMTB

Jan 2, 2024
by Matt Beer  
When Devinci Cycles debuted the first version of the E-Troy, it didn’t carry the same clean-cut appearance as their non-motorized bikes. Back in June, the French-Canadian brand debuted a redesigned model with a suspension layout that mimics the standard Troy and hones power delivery of the sought-after Bosch Performance CX Line motor.

Three models exist in the E-Troy Bosch lineup built on Canadian-made, alloy frames starting at $6,199 USD. The GX LTD model on test ($7,499) touts a 170 Fox 38 fork at a slack 63-degree head tube angle along with shorter chainstays and mixed wheels. The 150mm travel E-Troy pushes the boundaries of what is labeled as an all-mountain e-bike.

Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD Details

• Aluminum frame - made in Canada w/ lifetime warranty
• Bosch Performance CX Line motor / 625 Wh battery
• Wheel size: Mixed
• Travel: 150mm rear / 170mm front
• 63º head angle
• 78.5º seat tube angle
• 438mm chainstays
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL
• Weight: 24.6 kg / 54.3 lb kg (size MD)
• Price: $7,499 USD
devinci.com








bigquotesThe new Devinci E-Troy is all for tackling the most difficult terrain thanks to a burly fork and a compact rear half, allowing the rider to feel confident without feeling glued to the ground at all times. Matt Beer




Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.
Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.
Clean internal cable routing and adequate chain slap protectors should be standard. Thankfully, Devinci has those areas well sorted with rubber that extends all the way forward to the main pivot. Quick-release rear axles are convenient at times. A slimmer design would remove the chances of snagging it on narrow trails or knocking your legs against it when pushing the bike. They're a pet peeve of mine which isn't exclusive to Devinci bikes.

Frame Details

Devinci has been making aluminum frames in-house for decades and although there was demand for carbon frames in other model lines, the E-Troy returns to its roots. This aluminum frame is made in their Chicoutimi factory and is all about simplicity.

You won't find pesky cables routed through the headset, the battery is easily removable, and the proven split pivot suspension returns to a traditional rocker link-look.

All sizes of the E-Troy frames roll on mixed wheels with clearance for up to 2.6 tires. There are no geometry adjustments per se, but the E-Troy can comfortably run a 160 or in the case of the LTD model, a 170mm fork.

All of Devinci's current eMTBs use the accepted widely accepted 148mm Boost hub spacing, versus the 157mm Super Boost on their unassisted trail and enduro bikes. The E-Troy is built around a 55mm chain line and includes a thoughtful upper guide, although I'd still like to see skid plates on all E-bikes.

Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.
Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.

Visually the new E-Troy is an improvement upon the previous iteration with much cleaner lines and part of that is due to the re-positioning of the motor, which is now tucked further under the cranks.

It’s no secret that Bosch makes excellent e-bike motors and the Performance CX Line motor provides up to 85Nm of torque with four assist modes. The E-bike Flow app also allows you to tune each power assist level, by torque, pedal sensitivity, max speed, and the assistance level.

One of the coolest features about this motor is that a lock and an alarm are possible to activate with the premium service subscription. The lock mechanism works by expanding a cam and can be engaged when the bike shuts off, activating the alarm at the same time. Additionally, if the bike is moved without authorization, a tracking device can determine the location.

These two services are free for the first year when you register an account with the E-bike pass, but will require an additional module to be installed by a Bosch dealer.

When I first rode the Bosch motor on a fancy Trek Rail, it used a very bulky and vulnerable remote. Thankfully, Bosch has simplified and drastically reduced the size of the buttons. Best of all, it connects to the motor wirelessly using a Bluetooth relay. All visual signals are now moved to the integrated battery percentage light bar, only found on the E-Troy GX LTD. You can also control the power and assist level from there should the battery in the Bluetooth remote run out unexpectedly.

In terms of the juice available, the main battery stores 625Wh and locks into the underside of the down tube with a key. The charge port is located on the non-drive side, below the shock. Additionally, the Power More range extender can be plugged into that port and bolted to the water bottle bosses, providing an extra 250Wh.

Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.

Suspension Design

Devinci uses a split pivot suspension design for the E-Troy. The layout is claimed to allow for more active suspension under braking due to the co-rotating pivot around the rear axle.

A 185x55mm shock provides 150mm of rear wheel travel, utilizing a trunnion mount. Devinci says that their dual-row bearings and seatstay bridge leads to a stiffer design than the than previous E-Troy.

photo
The LTD model on test has a 63-degree head tube angle, but there's the less aggressive GX version with a 160mm fork that steepens the geometry.

Geometry & Sizing

One of the first things you’ll notice when you swing a leg over the E-Troy is how slack the head angle is. At 63° it overshadows some of the most aggressive enduro bikes and with a 170mm Fox 38 at the helm, it’s capable of handling some seriously steep trails.

The only concern with the slack head angle is that it's paired with a steep 78.5-degree seat tube angle. Those angles can converge quickly should you decide to raise the handlebar height or post insertion depth, therefore shortening the effective top tube length. Depending on your cockpit setup, this can make the seated position feel cramped, which could be a reason why Devinci specified such a low-rise bar.

The stack height numbers are on the lower side, at 615mm for the medium, with the reach measuring 465mm. At 178 cm tall I’m at the upper limit of Devinci’s medium-size E-Troy, but I focused on keeping the wheelbase in check. Considering how much mass I would need to muscle around, I’m glad I steered in that direction and chose to deal with the constraints of the effective top tube versus a gargantuan wheelbase.

There are four frame sizes to choose from in the E-Troy with reaches that fit riders from 160 cm up to 198 cm. All of the chainstay lengths remain the same at 438mm.


Specifications
Release Date 2023
Price $7499
Travel 150mm
Rear Shock Fox Float X Performance Elite Evol LV, 185x55mm
Fork Fox 38 Performance Elite Grip2 170mm, 51 Offset
Headset FSA Orbit
Cassette SRAM PG1230 11-50T, HG body
Crankarms FSA CK-762 Bosch 165mm
Chainguide GN4 Mini Guide
Bottom Bracket BOSCH Performance Line CX, 85Nm
Rear Derailleur SRAM GX Eagle 12 spd
Chain SRAM GX Eagle 12 spd
Shifter Pods SRAM GX Eagle 12 spd single click
Handlebar V2 Pro E 15mm x 780mm
Stem V2 Pro E 40mm
Grips Devinci Performance w/lock-on
Brakes SRAM Code R w/ 200mm Centerline rotors
Wheelset RaceFace Aeffect eMTB
Tires Maxxis Minion DHF 29x2.5 3C MaxxTerra Exo+, Minion DHRII | 27.5x2.4 3C MaxxTerra DoubleDown
Seat SDG BELAIR Max eMTB
Seatpost SDG Tellis 31.6mm x 150mm

Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.
Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.





Test Bike Setup
When I was first offered a chance to review the E-Troy, the specs and geometry looked to be spot on for the price tag and ethos of what I believe a mid-tier, full-powered E-bike should encompass, however, a couple of small tweaks were needed to optimize its performance.

As a tech editor, we get acclimatized to our preferences in terms of grips, handlebars, seats, and tires, but I always give the benefit of the doubt to the product managers and at least give the stock components a whirl. The 15mm rise bars and low stack height were an interesting combo with the slack head angle. Before the first ride, I placed the stem at the top of the steer tube with 20mm of spacers underneath but would need to switch that out for something with more rise. Eventually, I settled on a 25mm rise bar at 770mm in width.

As for the suspension, I went above my usual pressure on the Fox 38, hovering around 108 PSI. The stock E-bike-rated version of this fork included three spacers but I would eventually add a fourth. Closing both high and low-speed compression, as well as the high-speed rebound, more than usual was another change that helped control larger impacts.


photo
Matt Beer
Location: Squamish, BC, Canada
Age: 37
Height: 5'10" / 178 cm
Weight: 170 lb / 78 kg
Industry affiliations / sponsors: None
Instagram: @mattb33r

I started with 205 PSI in the rear shock (34% sag) which provided a lot of traction, but frequent pedal strikes, plus some hard bottom outs, so I bumped up the pressure to 215 (30% sag) and swapped the 0.4 stock volume spacer for a 0.6 in.³ I kept moving up in pressure by 10 PSI increments as each change seemed to be less noticeable on the trail than I hoped. Eventually, the sweet spot registered at 230 PSI giving roughly 27% sag.

I also swapped out the 150mm dropper post for one with a 20mm longer extension. I’d like to see more manufacturers utilize all of the real estate in their frames, especially since the size medium E-Troy is capable of handling a 170mm seat post. It’s much easier to limit the amount of drop versus replacing the post. In case you missed it, that was a hot topic discussed in our latest field test.

Lastly, I installed sticky, more robust tires for the cooler autumn temperatures, an insert in the rear wheel, and softer grips that didn’t feature a tapered end.

Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.

Climbing

Just because you have a motor bolted to your bike doesn’t mean that it’ll be an effective climber. There’s much more at play here such as the e-bike’s handling and motor response.

It will be important for riders to look at the effective top tube length as mentioned in the setup. If you find yourself on the upper end of a size, the cockpit can become cramped feeling as those two angles converge - it’s likely taller riders will want to run a higher bar.

With a serious amount of front wheel ahead of you, the steep seat angle and scooped saddle shape keep your weight pushed forward without sliding off the back of the bike.

Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.
That extra front center can help bridge the gap when lunging the front wheel up onto steps and making trials-y moves.

The only place I found the extreme head angle to be a slight hindrance was an extremely tight flat turns. I believe some of that can be attributed to the longer 51mm fork offset which can cause the front wheel to swap to the side particularly quickly when standing on the pedals. You’ll need to keep an eye on where the front wheel is when rounding tight switchbacks too. That’s all to be expected of a bike like this that sits close to the limit of aggressive trail geometry. It’s an exciting but brave move for Devinci to settle on these angles that reflect similarly to the chainsaw Enduro bike.

When it came to tuning the motor, I got along well with most of the stock settings. I did tone down the pedal sensitivity level in turbo to avoid spinning out up steep slippery climbs that required awkward moves where you might have to stop and start cranking suddenly.

Choosing the right assistance mode is critical in those situations and thankfully that’s much easier to reach with the slim and ergonomic remote. Each one of those four modes offers a noticeable difference in assistance.

Calculating which modes I spent the most time in on the trail is tough to say, but I bet they would be Tour Plus and Boost, the second and fourth highest levels of assist. Although I don’t think four modes are too many, it’s easy to see why something like SRAM‘s new Powertrain system only offers two levels of assistance. Both drive units allow for plenty of tuning, but only the Bosch can be turned off completely, which plenty of riders will select to avoid any accidental motor bursts on technical descents.

Why e-bikes don’t have a more robust skid plate is beyond me, granted the motor isn’t as vulnerable to impacts as the previous model that looked to protrude further forward.

Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.

Descending

Devinci has put together an appealing eMTB for riders who will focus on lapping steeper zones as the front end of the bike overshadows the rear in terms of travel, wheel size and the balance of the geometry. With that said, it isn’t held back on less intense trails are there because there are aspects that allow it to stay on its toes.

Since the weight of full-powered eMTBs helps to keep the center of mass grounded, it’s not necessary to make the chainstays overly long to get the same stability as an enduro bike would require I do wonder how this would carry over on the larger sizes since the chainstays are the same length on the large and extra-large frames.

Adding to that element of security when descending is the long front center drawn out by the slack 63° head tube angle and 170mm Fox 38 fork. Those two components allow you to challenge the steepest tracks and gnarly lines. If that seems like too much for you, then look to the E-Troy GX which comes with a 160mm fork, and steepens the head angle by half a degree.

Honestly, I’ve been waiting for an aggressive e-bike like this, and haven’t ridden one that can descend confidently and remain somewhat playful. The 27.5" rear wheel is without a doubt part of that equation and allows you to move around the bike without getting buzzed when hanging off the back.

I know that this is a modestly priced eMTB and genuinely think that the components all around are a great bang for your buck, but riders that push the limit will look for stickier, more supportive, tires, stronger, brakes, and rear shock that can take a harder punch.

Next to the all-around great value and aggro geometry, the best part of the E-Troy was the overall quiet ride. Common complaints like motor clutch and cable rattles were not a concern. The added rubber along the lower swingarm also kept the chain slap to a minimum

Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.

photo

What's the Best Value?

Throughout the E-Troy lineup, there are three models which all use the same alloy frame and Bosch Performance CX Line motor. The entry-level build uses a full Shimano drivetrain and brake set, Fox Performance suspension with fewer damping adjustments than the Performance Elite gear. Devinci’s house-branded V2 components cover the cockpit and wheelset, plus there’s a TranzX dropper post.

The GX builds both receive a mechanical SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain that tops the Shimano cassette by one extra tooth (52 vs 51) and uses Code R brakes. Then there’s the jump up to Fox Performance Elite suspension, Race Face Aeffect wheels, and an SDG Tellis dropper post.

Although the motors are the same, the GX models use the trick wireless remote and feature the top tube display.

Between those two GX versions, the only difference is the fork. The “LTD” sees the small addition of an eMTB-tuned Fox 38 that is bumped up to 170mm of travel.

Separating the Deore and GX builds is more or less $1,300, which is still a good chunk of cash. If you’re a die-hard Shimano fan, then that could leave extra coin for upgrades such as larger rotors, and stickier, more robust tires.

photo
Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD
photo
Trek Rail 9.9

How Does It Compare?


The Trek Rail 9.9 we tested featured all of the latest electronic gizmos with a full carbon frame and costs $14,000 USD. Targeting the same style of rider, the Rail runs on the same Performance CX Line motor but is equipped with a slightly larger 750Wh battery.

To be fair, Trek does have less expensive models in their lineup. A comparable model would be the Rail 7 Gen 2 with a RockShox Domain fork and 12-speed SRAM 10 to 52 tooth gear range, so the focus is aimed towards the frame features and geometry given the price discrepancy.

At the time, the sleek Bluetooth remote was not available for the Trek and still uses a top tube-mounted display. Devinci takes a discrete, but less readily available approach by displaying the detailed all motor stats, except assist level and battery percentage, to the Bosch app.

Trek’s sizing slides down the scale slightly in terms of rider height, offering four sizes that are spread further apart. The Rail’s reach numbers start 20mm shorter than the smallest E-Troy and stretch 25mm further than the largest Devinci. Those are significant distances for short and tall riders, however, that might force some riders in the middle to make a jump up or down from their ideal size.

In terms of angles, the Rail is a little more reserved and sticks with a 64.2° had tube angle but features a flip chip that can increase that to 64.6 this flip chip also allows for a 29, or 27.5" rear wheel in the highest setting. Devinci has held off with geometry adjustments and keeps the E-Troy rolling exclusively on mixed wheels, allowing the chainstays to be shortened by 10mm over the Rail.

Both bikes can accept a 160 or 170mm fork, so if you bumped the travel up on the Rail, it would nearly put that in touch with the slack 63-degree head angle of the E-Troy. The Rail also features a whopping 1.8” tapered steer tube for increased fork rigidity. The seat tube angle on the E-Troy is roughly 1 1/2° steeper than the rail, depending on the flip-chip setting.

On the trail, the E-Troy was undoubtedly more aggressive and confident charging down nasty terrain. The Rail’s slightly longer wheelbase and larger rear wheel offer more traction while climbing with a balanced feel regardless of the grade of the trail. No surprisingly, the suspension dynamics of both bikes were similar with a plush breakaway into the stroke and excellent tracking under braking.

Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.

Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.
Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.

Technical Report

Race Face Aeffect R eMTB Wheels: Wheels take a beating on full-powered e-bikes and while I used an insert for half the time in the rear tire, these hoops from Race Face held up impeccably. Enough mistakes were made during the course of the test that I expected to result in rim damage, but honestly, they're dead straight. Despite pushing the bike into tight berms, all of the spokes have held tension, hardly requiring a preliminary true. The internals on this hub are also steel, differing from the standard Aeffect wheels, and never skipped a beat.

Motor Controls: Wireless controls aren’t necessary, but they clean up the appearance of the cockpit and remove the chance of tearing out a cable in a crash. It does mean another battery to keep an eye on, however, you can toggle through the assist levels using the buttons on the built-in top tube display. Five light bars on this display change from blue to white before turning off as the battery drains, giving you a decent idea of the battery life you have left. I do appreciate the simplicity of this approach. For a more accurate representation, you can check the app where you can dive into all the extras and tuning parameters.

SDG Bel-Air V3 Max: We often joke about E-bike-specific components, but this saddle has legitimate claims with a raised scoop at the back. You can run the saddle at less of a negative angle without sliding off the back. It’s often more effective on e-bikes to lower the saddle height a touch to keep your weight forward and use the benefits of the motor to climb ridiculously steep hills.

Devinci E-Troy Bosch GX LTD. Photos by Tom Richards.



Pros

+ Excels in steeper terrain
+ Excellent value for components and a made-in-Canada frame
+ Top-performing Bosch motor has a quiet clutch, Bluetooth control, and high tunability


Cons

- Steering on flat, slow-speed trails is less intuitive.
- Riders on the SM, MG, and LG sizes will likely wish for a longer dropper post



Pinkbike's Take

bigquotesUntil I hopped on board the E-Troy, I’ve always felt tentative descending on full-powered eMTBs. The progressive geometry doesn’t come without a few quirks while navigating slower trails, though that’s a trade-off aggressive riders will likely be willing to live with.

As for the parts specifications and construction, Devinci has chosen a solid component package, alongside the desirable Bosch Performance CX Line motor. The handlebar height and shorter dropper post may not be ideal for riders on the upper limits of the frame size, but the rest of the components are well suited to the capabilities of the E-Troy GX LTD and don’t cost an exorbitant amount of money.
Matt Beer







Author Info:
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Member since Mar 16, 2001
360 articles

167 Comments
  • 91 22
 eBike Haters: Shouldn't you be reading a hard-copy by candlelight?
  • 14 11
 Comment gold
  • 11 28
flag Bro-LanDog (Jan 2, 2024 at 11:42) (Below Threshold)
 Just cuz you bought the marketing doesn't mean motorbikes are anything new
  • 7 14
flag WhateverBikes (Jan 3, 2024 at 4:52) (Below Threshold)
 eBike Riders: Shouldn't you be drinking cheap beer with your moto cross bros?
  • 10 15
flag Bro-LanDog (Jan 3, 2024 at 10:23) (Below Threshold)
 @WhateverBikes: motocross is wayyyy cooler than these mopeds don't put em in the same sentence
  • 39 5
 Could we at least resolve to bitch more creatively in the comments on e-bike articles in 2024?
  • 24 7
 Ain't going to happen. People were still posting "26 ain't dead" long after 29ers took over the entire market. The brain dead moped comments will be around forever unfortunately.
  • 8 11
 brain dead moped
  • 13 1
 @vitaflo: But 26 aint dead. In fact it is making a resurgence in kids bikes.
  • 4 3
 @maestroman21: brian dead moped ain’t dead either. He’s out there soft pedaling up your hardest climb eating a cheese burger.
  • 12 10
 @deez-nucks: yeah it sucks. Someone yesterday on an e-bike yelled "coming up, on an e-bike" during my climb.... as if that immediately gave them an emergency services level of importance. Annoying.
  • 4 2
 @vitaflo: 26" still isn't dead. I still ride it, will do so until I can't ride anymore. My friends and kids all ride 26" too.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session the modern equivalent Looks like a Rail
  • 32 9
 Does it mean I need to update my filter every January 1st now?
  • 23 2
 premium service subscription? so cool!!! so happy to see the amazing innovations that e-bikes are bringing to the bike industry.
  • 7 3
 Soon you’ll have to pay a monthly subscription for the motor to turn on or be used at max power!
  • 3 3
 yes! SRAM, please add a subscription to your transmission drive train. Then I can have two subscriptions for one bike. That would be the bestest.
  • 2 0
 gosh this is nightmare coming true. Subscription to use part you've paid. This subscription system is a cancer
  • 3 1
 I almost couldn't believe it when I read the same thing. They are thinking how can we weasel a subscription model into an ebike product, oh, I know, here's a feature to lock behind a paywall. Actually I have a GREAT idea for Sram to use on their transmission. They should allow you a free number of shifts per day, then every extra shift is 5 cents, OR, limit the gear range to 4 gears, and you can 'unlock' more for extra $$$
  • 2 3
 @Ryawesomerpm: actually its super smart, i have the bike , but don't use that so I don't pay but someone who wants it pays, nothing to buy and suddenly you have a service that with another system you have to buy the tag then then subscription. Show me your locking system or gps locator system that you develop that is free, ya didn't think you had one. ha ha
  • 3 0
 @norona: haha there’s all sorts of aftermarket type trackers out there too if you want that type of thing. But enjoy your subscription as it sounds like you are, for a low monthly rate I’m sure.
  • 1 2
 @Ryawesomerpm: read carefully, I DO NOT have it, but as an option it is great as those who want can add it with only adding a subscription versus buy an aftermarket and buying the piece and the subscription which will cost more.
  • 18 2
 I'm not part of the mob that complains about all e-bike coverage on pinkbike, but I am a little annoyed that the review of the regular Troy was never published even though you guys had the bike, but the e-bike version does get a review.

It's fine with me if e-bike reviews are an *additional* type of content I can see here, but it's not as fine for them to displace or replace coverage of normal bikes. Can we please review the regular models of bikes as well as the electric version?
  • 15 2
 One thing that Ebike reviews don’t mention are the manufacturers warranty details.What is actually covered by the warranty and for how long.
  • 5 0
 Good point. I hadn't thought of that.
  • 6 0
 @Kootbiker Devinci manufactures the frame and offers a lifetime warranty while the motor and battery are covered by a two-year warranty per Bosch.
  • 1 4
 @mattbeer: That's great but it would be useful to also know something about the exclusions that invariably apply.
  • 3 0
 @mi-bike: If you don't put a speed chip on the motor or mess with the electronics, you're good to go for 2 years. The weakest point of bosch motors are the axle seals at the crank splines so if you wash the bike a lot, water is gonna get in and mess the motor up. Otherwise super reliable system, have a customer that has a bike from the shop i work at with more 10K kilometres and it still works as it should. Anyway, bosch has a ridiculously good warranty at least in europe, less then two weeks and you have a new motor in your hands, sometimes even out of the warranty period.
  • 2 0
 well I have been riding e-mtb since 2017 over 45,000km now on them and never had one issue with motors...not saying some have not nor some will have the same as me but they are pretty bomber and of course with the amount out there there will be problems but I don't even think about anything happening to it much like i dont think my brakes are suddenly going to fail
  • 1 1
 @norona: I guess you never owned a Specialized?
  • 2 0
 @Kootbiker: MY first bike in 2017 was a second hand specialized, no problem with the motor but the rear axle would come loose all the time, then started riding devinci. I have heard of a bunch of belt failures with them but quick turn overs with new motors...with the amount of riding and fun i get, e-mtbs are like snowmobiles, it does not matter the cost to fix, just get it done cause I can miss a day. ha ha
  • 13 0
 The ebike hate is strong today
  • 6 0
 Don't worry. NY resolutions tend to wear off quickly.
  • 86 74
 Damn! Another moped article got through my feed settings. Sheesh
  • 17 27
flag dstroud70 (Jan 2, 2024 at 8:11) (Below Threshold)
 Makes me aggro.
  • 25 30
flag in2falling (Jan 2, 2024 at 8:13) (Below Threshold)
 Mountain moped
  • 15 14
 Boohoo
  • 98 26
 Did PB also make you click on the article, scroll to the comments, type this out, and hit submit?
  • 12 32
flag freeridemafia420 (Jan 2, 2024 at 8:33) (Below Threshold)
 @Andykmn: no… why does your computer force you to do things?
  • 13 20
flag nickfranko (Jan 2, 2024 at 8:35) (Below Threshold)
 @Andykmn: Did PB force you to lose your sense of humor?
  • 19 25
flag chriskneeland (Jan 2, 2024 at 8:42) (Below Threshold)
 @Andykmn: Exhibit A why ebikers need their own website
  • 8 11
 Same, what happened to being able to block e-bike stuff from our feed?
  • 11 1
 @Tarekith: the "Made in Canada" tag overrides all filters.
  • 8 24
flag ElDragon (Jan 2, 2024 at 8:49) (Below Threshold)
 How the hell is this moped sheeat't removed? I don't want to see or hear about it, dang it Pinkbike!!
  • 6 16
flag madmon (Jan 2, 2024 at 8:51) (Below Threshold)
 i feel this rag is turning into Moto Daily. If this bike had a Pinion it would qualify as a motorcycle.
  • 41 8
 If only there was some way to not read an article you aren't interested in.
  • 9 33
flag ybsurf (Jan 2, 2024 at 9:00) (Below Threshold)
 @ThatEbikeGuy: of only there was a way to don't see motorbike on a mountain bike dedicated website
  • 9 28
flag freeridemafia420 (Jan 2, 2024 at 9:08) (Below Threshold)
 @ThatEbikeGuy: if only moped enthusiasts could step up and climb like real athletes.
  • 12 1
 I understand the frustration. I have filtered out slopestyle shit but still I see it every once in a while.
  • 12 4
 Yet you felt compelled to comment.
  • 12 20
flag cerealkilla (Jan 2, 2024 at 9:54) (Below Threshold)
 Yup, first review of the year is another e-bike being force-fed by the corporate sponsors. They won't be happy until everything in the past is obsolete, and you need a monthly subscription to pay for the software on your freakin' bicycle. Extra user-fees apply if you want extra travel or to unlock tire-pressure monitoring data on your LED screen.
  • 7 1
 Looks like a session
  • 3 3
 @freeridemafia420: AI its the new mind control
  • 1 3
 @fabsmf: damn straight.
  • 6 12
flag fruitcake (Jan 2, 2024 at 17:19) (Below Threshold)
 I don't care if you're an ebiker. Just keep the FVCK OFF trails you aren't supposed to be on....
  • 8 2
 @fruitcake: you mean the same trails you’re not supposed to be on LOL
  • 6 1
 @fruitcake: I dare you to talk to anyone like that in real life on the trails and see what happens
  • 2 3
 @nickfranko: i thought his comment was pretty hilarious lol
  • 6 4
 @freeridemafia420: lol you’re too stupid to realize people who ride e-bikes can also afford normal bikes. And that they ride both, and are definitely better at riding than you. Don’t argue about it- we already know we’re better (for the sake of argument) LOL
  • 1 5
flag fruitcake (Jan 3, 2024 at 7:45) (Below Threshold)
 @cuban-b: The London mtber has spoken.... hilarious
  • 3 7
flag freeridemafia420 (Jan 3, 2024 at 10:25) (Below Threshold)
 @cuban-b: yeah right kook. I am better than you because I don’t need a moped to climb, and I live somewhere there are actual mountains. Plus I’m having more fun than you. Suck it kook.
  • 2 2
 @freeridemafia420: spending all your time climbing, is not having fun.
  • 3 1
 @Schbeemb: Hence why it's a different sport.
  • 3 4
 @chriskneeland: you are right. Analogue riders do appear to have more in common with hikers the amount of walking they do whilst pushing uphill.
  • 5 3
 @ThatEbikeGuy: And ebikers have more in common with people who ride mopeds.
  • 1 0
 @fruitcake: stay off my f*cking trails not because of any specific reason but just because you suck and are a pos LOL… just as relevant a response. This is fun!
  • 15 6
 "Just because you have a motor bolted to your bike doesn’t mean that it’ll be an effective climber "
When you can climb a chunky extended 20% grade climb with your dropper slammed with a 75 watt effort.
  • 7 2
 I noticed that too lol.
  • 17 18
 It’s the e-bike doublespeak. They are trying to convince people it’s a real sport ahaha
  • 11 3
 @freeridemafia420: sport? It's pissing around in the woods for fun. It's a hobby.
  • 10 25
flag freeridemafia420 (Jan 2, 2024 at 11:14) (Below Threshold)
 @ThatEbikeGuy: exactly my point. Pedaling a moped is a hobby, like crochet or origami. No risk, no commitment, no skillset, no dedication.
  • 4 2
 @freeridemafia420: the same skillset as a normal bike. Except you spend more time descending, becoming even more skilled.
  • 15 4
 It's 2024 and mountain bikers are still offended by eBikes. Some things never change!
  • 6 9
 So you agree that Ebikes aren't mountain bikes
  • 8 0
 I’m triggered. Absolutely triggered, I tell ya.
  • 3 0
 Great review @mattbeer !
As you mentionned tire buzz, I was wondering if you've had diffenrent experience on emtb vs regular bikes?

In my experience, I can't stand the big rear wheel on a standard bike (tire buzz is constant). Funnily, it's never been an issue on emtb.

The hypothesis I have is that increased bike mass is less transferred forward in the steeps because it is low down. The rider doesn't have to shift weight back as much to keep the rear end on the ground.

Also, since the bike is heavier, it pitches less forward when the rear wheel gets bumped.

Rider's butt more forward and less bike pitch on bump mean less tire buzz? Does this match your experience?
  • 6 1
 The size that has evaded me my whole life. MG - this must be the holy grail.
  • 3 1
 Nice to see sensibly priced, durably built/spec ebikes come to market. Only think I question here is the 51 offset fork with slacker head angle on bigger wheel. Probably why bike was slower to turn in review and looks like front end sticks out there a bit. Bet makes it nice and stsble on the steeps, but maybe slow and floppy on tighter bits at slower speeds
  • 4 3
 I have 2500 km on the gx version and 800 on the ltd, not slow turning at all at slower speeds technical tight uphills this baby rips to!
  • 8 4
 Me too! Did my settings automatically change after I read the Pinion e-box article linked from the articles of the year?!
  • 22 27
flag cuban-b (Jan 2, 2024 at 8:23) (Below Threshold)
 It’s cute seeing people triggered by bikes Wink
  • 30 9
 @cuban-b: Bikes are bikes, these are E-bikes. Words have meaning
  • 3 3
 @cuban-b: I'm not triggered by e-bikes, but as I'm not going to buy one, I've got the site settings not to show e-bikes. So I was confused by why it appeared, and saw I wasn't the only one. I didn't spit out my coffee or write to the United Nations...
  • 1 0
 @cuban-b: They're not triggering, they're reaction-assisting.
  • 3 1
 @lukemech: you guys are pathetic
  • 3 0
 @cuban-b: I'm a downhiller and an e-biker, I have no side in this other than clarity of expression
  • 6 1
 50+ pounds is the new weight weenie standard along with 38lb trail bikes.
  • 1 0
 You enter enter into another dimension. An alternate 2024. A dimension not only of shred and shralp, but of steeze. A journey into a wondrous land where every manufacturer specs short seat tubes and long droppers. You've entered, the Twilight Zone.
  • 2 0
 Ya'll complaining about the filter but let's rejoice that this is NOT SUPER BOOST. Add it to the growing list of bikes coalescing around 148: GT Fury, Pivot Shadowcat, Frameworks, Transition TR11, Devinci Marshall.
  • 2 1
 I got my first mtb in 1985, been my primary recreational activity until recently. Looking back there are certainly times where an ebike would have been useful and fun. A bit too late for me now to fully enjoy an ebike but for the rest of you …
  • 1 0
 One thing this article fails to talk about is the battery for the LTD is different than the GX, they are not swapable to each other. Also I am not a super nerd but having the display on the GX is awesome as cadence on an ebike does matter and it is good to see your speed, the ltd does not show all that, having both bikes the better way to save money is get the GX and bump up the fork to 170mm and I think you get the better deal.
  • 5 0
 Looks like a Rail
  • 4 0
 Trunion? Subscription? (Shits pants in anger)
  • 2 0
 438mm chainstays + 501mm reach (XL) does not feel like a balanced combo. Also curious why the rear travel was limited to 150mm on an aggressive 62.3HTA bike with a motor?
  • 1 0
 I wondered that as well coming off the e-spartan at 170 mm but because its a 27.5 on the back and the geo it feels every bit as awesome, the coil over is more squishy but this bike is plenty capable with the 150mm and i bumped up the 160mm on the gx to 170 to be the same as my ltd.
  • 4 1
 Now everyone can ride the Village Bicycle.
  • 7 4
 I ride a moped and I support this. Nice review!
  • 1 0
 I wish bike companies would make XL bikes which are actually XL, 635mm top tube on an XL. Not right!
  • 2 1
 Great review, cool bike. I would have loved to see one photo that showed the complete bike without text covering it.
  • 2 0
 That linkage arm looks awfully weak for an ebike in this category.
  • 3 1
 I see high school students doing the welding again for Devinci.
  • 2 0
 More salt than the Pacific Ocean in this comment section.
  • 1 0
 Ya we can’t wait for that testle bike now with the premium service subscription for heated grips and a AC seat.
  • 1 0
 This frame with a Pinion and no motor would be amazing. Great color too! Nice work Devinci.
  • 15 16
 Looks decent. Shimano linkglide should be default on ebikes. See the dumb haters have managed to click on an ebike article so they can complain about ebike articles lolz
  • 9 11
 That motorbike article passed the motorbike filter that's why. I'm not fat and or lazy that's all.
  • 40 43
 I personally thing that testing e-bike by an fit and healthy 37-year old is offensive to e-bike riders. It's kind of body shaming, it's as bad as presenting xxxl clothes by super slim models, how a typical e-bike rider feels seeing Matt Beer on a moped? Be fair, hire a 50-year old 220lb 5'7'' dude with a bod!
(sorry, but this article passed by anti-ebike filter, so I simply had to do it, it's your fault PB! Yo made me do it!)
  • 40 29
 No one made you click on the article, scroll to the comments, type this out and hit submit. That's all you.
  • 14 8
 Plus-size testers for e-bikes is the best idea since (thickly) sliced bread.
  • 19 22
 @Andykmn: No one made you read the comment, get offended, type that out, and hit submit. That's all you.
  • 7 27
flag Andykmn (Jan 2, 2024 at 8:38) (Below Threshold)
 @nickfranko: no one made you read my comment, get offended, type that out, and hit submit. That's all you.
  • 19 4
 @lkubica It ain't just 50 year olds with a bod that can make use of these. There are loads of younger folk with invisible issues, multiple hip fractures, knee surgery etc. If it keeps them riding and happy, that sounds good to me.
  • 10 13
 @carlitouk: that's the minority, most of them are the lazy unhealthy that don't want to make any efforts to change their bad lifestyle and put some effort to get fit.
  • 7 4
 @Andykmn: 1/10. Do better.
  • 2 1
 I like my ebike testers how I like my bacon…thiccc
  • 16 2
 @carlitouk: I'm in this camp mate. I'm super fit, low weight but have a hidden medical issue which means I cannot ride a regular bike. So thanks Matt, this view is very much relevant to me and I'm sorry to everyone I disgust by using my eBike on the trails. I hope you can understand that for me it's either that or nothing Frown
  • 4 8
flag mi-bike (Jan 2, 2024 at 10:35) (Below Threshold)
 @rojo-1: Honestly curious. What type of (hidden / unhidden) medical issues would one prevent from riding a regular bike but allow for riding a pedal assist bike (with actual support given based on % effort applied to pedals)? Couldn't you just ride a regular bike but slower?
  • 18 0
 @mi-bike: stomach removal due to cancer. Cannot eat nearly enough to fuel myself for that level of cardo. I could do some riding on my own but certainly couldn't keep up with mates.
  • 7 0
 @mi-bike: If you live somewhere mountainous, there is a broad range of medical issues where a pedal assist would be required. You've had three examples here; multiple hip fractures, knee surgery, and stomach removal...keep on riding @rojo-1, getting out is what counts.
  • 7 0
 @carlitouk: literally any mental or physical imperfection could be a legit reason to get one of these and enjoy the countryside. I'm all for it and wouldn't like to judge. I certainly don't think anyone taking themself for a bike/moped ride/whatever in the outdoors is lazy, quite the opposite. Keep having your own version of fun everyone!
  • 5 11
flag lkubica (Jan 2, 2024 at 13:38) (Below Threshold)
 So this was of course just nasty trolling from my side.What inspired me today was yesterdays's encounter of 5 absolutely most stereotypical ebike riders ever, they had their beers on top and rode down. None of them had any disabilities, except bods, they all had them.
I am perfectly aware that lot's of people benefit from ebikes and it's great. There is only one but, ebikes (e-mtbs in fact) were and are not invented for people with injuries, they were made for mass market and lazy people, the rest is just a byproduct. And it's cool, I personally know a guy riding adaptive MTB with motor and it's so good that he has this chance, really. But five guys having beers before riding, I just cannot respect them, sorry.
  • 2 4
 @lkubica: typical encounter in my area as well and I think it's the norm not the exception.
  • 4 1
 @mi-bike: I have a lower lumbar injury and tendinitis of the right knee. I can ride a regular bike but almost always have pain during or after the ride. If I don't spend time doing PT exercises each day it gets really bad. Don't notice it at all on the ebike even if I don't do the PT for a bit
  • 3 4
 @catweasel: no judging here but you can climb a bike on a smooth fire road or climbing trail due to injury but you can plow downhill through rock and roots and jumps to flat no problem? For me the hardest part of MTB on my body is definitely the down, the up is the easy part but nobody's the same I guess.
  • 7 1
 @lkubica: no one cares what you think, your riding a bike dude...
  • 6 2
 @lkubica: 5 guys having a good time in the countryside and presumably not hurting anyone(?) They sound like the absolute worst people in society!
  • 2 1
 @ybsurf: If your energy/strength is limited it makes sense to save it for the down. Or if a strong fit person just wants to have more fun DH it makes sense to get an uplift/eBike. That's exctly what our favourite DH riders do...
  • 5 0
 @ybsurf: no worries dude, it's kind of a specific injury I can manage with pt and avoiding certain movements/activities. The back gets brought on by steep and/or punchy tech climbing when the tension in the hamstrings gets transferred into the glutes and then up into the lower back.
I'm fine riding rowdy descents but long blue flow trails will actually start to cause me pain as you are much more static in the bike.
Anyway just a personal example of an injury that isn't obvious. I'm fine with folks riding ebikes whether their medical status
  • 3 0
 *whatever their medical status
  • 6 2
 Fit, healthy and ride an e in order to do more descending each ride. So much more fun. Otherwise, I'd still be sat on a lift, or chair, to get to the top. Like a number of the haters. Not that I've come across any haters, but absolutely cannot wait to do so. Just to laugh at them and wind them up even more ;-)
  • 7 6
 If it looks like a boat, and rides like a boat, maybe it is a boat.
  • 1 1
 Is this LTD named after the Ford car that the TV police Dectective Hunter used to drive?
  • 1 0
 I hate e-bikes but when I do purchase one it might be a E-Troy.
  • 2 0
 I don't drink beer very often, but when I do...
  • 1 0
 This bikes price should have a 6 in front of it.
  • 1 0
 EDIT 63.2 HTA... but still
  • 1 0
 I think they copied Trek's homework with that design a bit
  • 1 0
 I suspect that rocker link(s) will be problematic.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Rail!
  • 5 4
 Sweet bike.
  • 4 4
 Not as aggro as me when it passes me on the climb
  • 1 0
 Speed and Power
  • 4 6
 Could put its picture beside ugly in the dictionary. eBikes will ruin our sport as they will cause access issues.
  • 8 4
 Y'all have been saying the same shit for a decade now. I'm still waiting for the impending ebike-apocalypse to ruin mountain biking, but so far all I've got are a bunch of new gnarly trails built and maintained by ebikers.
  • 2 1
 LOL! TOO BAD
  • 4 6
 Why test moped climbing?
  • 3 2
 if you don't get it, you won't get it....
  • 11 14
 Boooooo.....
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