All-mountain e-bike test 2022: KTM Macina Kapoho 7972 in the EMTB reader test
Florentin Vesenbeckh
· 26.09.2022
Aren't these already enduro dimensions? No, because the suspension travel has only limited significance for the range of use of an E-MTB. A look at the geometry shows that the KTM Kapoho is a classic all-mountain with touring genes. With the steepest head angle and shortest wheelbase in the eMTB test, it lands on the conservative, cosy side. The reach of 455 millimetres also remains moderate. Unfortunately, the weight of the aluminium bike is not at all moderate. 27.65 kilos, an inglorious peak value. The geometry with the short chainstays still manages to give the bike a certain agility. It is quite easy to pull onto the rear wheel. However, the high weight unfortunately has a negative effect on dynamic riding manoeuvres.
The rear suspension offers plenty of reserves on demanding bumpy descents. The KTM Kapoho easily absorbs even heavy impacts, and the extra suspension travel is noticeable. The 35 mm Rockshox fork can't quite keep up with the superior rear suspension. All in all, however, the KTM's performance on the descents is quite successful. The bike also performs well on the climbs. However, the very short chainstays demand a more active riding style when things get steep. The rear suspension doesn't react very sensitively to small bumps and the ride comfort could be better. Too bad: The battery rattles massively in the down tube. Good: high permissible total weight.
Conclusion by Florentin Vesenbeckh, deputy editor-in-chief of EMTB:
Solid touring fully with reserves for rough terrain. More dignified than overly sporty. Top motor, long range, but unfortunately very heavy.
All the winning bikes from our readers' survey can be found here: >> 8 all-mountain e-bikes in the big EMTB reader test 2022 <<
Technical data KTM Macina Kapoho 7972
General information
- Price: 5399 Euro
- Further information on the KTM website
- Sizes / frame material: S / M / tested in size L / XL / aluminium
Drive
- Motor: Bosch Perf. CX Smart System
- Max. Torque³: 85 Nm
- Battery³ / weight² / price replacement battery: Powertube 750 / 4392 g / 999 Euro
- Gear system: Shimano Deore / XT (12-speed)
- Translation (v. / h.): 36; 10-51
- Display / size: Bosch Kiox 300 / 33 x 48 mm
Measured values
- Weight²: 27.65 kg
- Suspension travel f. / h.: 160 / 160 mm
- Reach altitude¹: 1902 (+0) hm
- Average speed: 13.9 km/h
Equipment
- Permissible total weight³: 147 kg
- Fork / Shock: Rockshox 35 Gold RL / Fox Float X Performance
- Telescopic seatpost: KTM Comp Dropper, 150 mm
- Brake / Disc Ø (front / rear): Shimano Deore four-piston / 203 mm / 180 mm
- Wheels: Shimano MT400 hubs; Ambrosio E35 trail rims
- Tyres (f. / h.): Maxx. M. DHF EXO, 29 x 2.5" / DHR II EXO+, 27.5 x 2.8"
¹ The reach height was determined during standardised test rides on an asphalt climb with a gradient of 12.2 percent. Highest support level, 150 watts pedalling power of the rider, rider weight incl. equipment 90 kg. The altitude metres in brackets are in significantly reduced emergency mode.
² Determined on the test stands in the EMTB test laboratory, weight without pedals. Battery weight incl. screwed-on cover where applicable.
³ Manufacturer information
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
