Light e-MTBs are the new boom bikes on the e-mountainbike market. The concept behind them is best explained by the advertising slogan of one brand: More bike, less E. Manufacturers are cutting back on the power of the motor and the capacity of the battery, thereby saving massive amounts of weight. With bikes weighing around 18 kilos, the natural riding experience should take centre stage. This is aimed at all those who find classic e-MTBs too clunky and sluggish.
This is also the case with the super-slim iLynx from BH. However, the Spaniards are pursuing a different strategy to the classic light eMTBs à la Levo SL, Orbea Rise or the Fazua bikes. Although BH also saves on maximum motor power, it only saves on battery capacity to a limited extent. The permanently integrated energy source with 540 watt hours can be extended by a range extender with 180 watt hours. This should give the bike a long range.
The facts about the BH iLynx Race 8.4 LT Pro
- BH 2ESMAG motor (max. 65 Nm)
- 540 watt hours permanently integrated in the down tube
- 180 Wh additional battery (water bottle format) included
- 120 mm suspension travel
- 29 inch
- 18.2 kilos (size L, EMTB measurement)
- 7999 Euro
- Full carbon frame
The drive of the BH iLynx
The centrepiece of the slim iLynx is its own motor, which goes by the name of BH 2ESMAG. The drive weighs 2210 grams. That is around 400 to 700 grams less than the classic Shimano, Bosch and Brose motors. The dimensions are also significantly more compact. BH gives the maximum torque as 65 Newton metres. This puts the drive in the Fazua league and, on paper, is significantly more powerful than a Specialized SL motor.
The bare figures of the drive give a promising impression. But what does it look like off-road? What is the background noise and power delivery of the engine like? What about the range? We tested the 2ESMAG in direct comparison with other minimalist e-drives and compared them on standardised test rides.
You can read all the results and experiences with the BH 2ESMAG in EMTB 5/2021 - currently available in print and digitally!
The chassis of the BH iLynx Race LT
In the non-motorised world, we would put the iLynx Race LT directly into the young category of Downcountry bikes pack. With 120 millimetres of travel at the front and rear, it is a slightly more powerful version of the even firmer iLynx Race with 100 millimetres of travel. Among e-MTBs, bikes with such a sporty chassis and short stroke are the absolute exception. The iLynx Race is best compared with the E-Calibre from Trekwhich also relies on race and marathon genes.
When we look at the iLynx range, we think the LT version makes much more sense for an E-MTB. With a telescopic seatpost and a little more travel reserves, the bike should be at home on tours and shallow trails. And the concept works! The fast, light-footed bike really comes into its own on flat trails. Exactly where classic e-MTBs are too sluggish. However, the iLynx Race does not come close to the off-road performance of a real trail bike with more suspension travel and robust tyres.
The BH iLynx Race LT on the trail
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
