BH iLynx+ SL Enduro 9.5 test: Only 21 kilos - touring athlete for individualists

From 19 kilograms? The promise at the launch of the BH iLynx+ SL sounded full-bodied. We didn't test whether this is really true. Instead of the super light and expensive 140 millimetre top model, we preferred to order the more robust version with 160 millimetre travel for this test. The right choice on the trail, as we will see.

And the iLynx+ SL also impresses when you look at the facts. At a good 21 kilos, it is the heaviest bike in our exclusive comparison of super-light power bikes. However, the BH comes ex works with a range extender (180 Wh, plus 1008 g).

But even if you plug in the additional battery, the bike is still a good kilo under the weight of most comparable high-end bikes. And that with solid suspension elements (Fox 38!), aluminium add-on parts and decent tyres. In addition, it has a weight allowance of a whopping 165 kilos. Exemplary!

The facts about the BH iLynx+ SL Enduro 9.5

• Motor: Shimano EP801, 85 Nm max. torque
• Battery: 630 Wh (permanently installed)
• Frame material: Carbon
• Spring travel: 160/160 mm
• Wheel size: 29 inch
• Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
• Price: 8499,95 Euro
• Weight: 21.2 kg (test bike in size L, EMTB measurement)
• Max. system weight: 165 kg
• Guarantee: for life

Power dwarf: The Shimano EP801

As with many lightweight eMTBs, BH also uses the Japanese Shimano motor for the iLynx+. The reason: the EP801 weighs just 2.65 kilograms, but delivers power and torque on a par with the established Bosch CX. Thanks to the new firmware, the drive has also improved its trail performance from autumn 2024. You can now fine-tune not only the support but also the motor overrun in the app. This helps on challenging uphill trails.

>> Lightweight powerhouse: The Shimano EP801 put to the test

The energy for the Shimano motor comes from a permanently installed battery with 630 watt hours. All but the cheapest iLynx+ models also include a range extender with 180 watt hours in the form of a water bottle. The range with the main battery alone is quite decent and clearly puts classic light e-MTBs in the shade.

With the range extender, the BH is still lighter than many classic E-All-Mountains and can even manage really long tours. The minimalist EM600 display shows the most important information about the ride and the battery status in 10 per cent increments. However, Shimano still doesn't offer navigation or extensive infotainment.

The geometry

Although the iLynx 9.5 is explicitly the enduro version of the bike in our test, the geometry of the BH is more reminiscent of the good old virtues of classic trail models. The seat angle is not excessively steep. With a long reach and low stack, the riding position is sporty and stretched. The steering angle of almost 65 degrees prioritises neutral steering behaviour. Short chainstays keep the wheelbase compact.

BIKE measurements at a glance (frame size L)

• Seat tube length: 431 mm
• Wheelbase: 1245 mm
• Reach: 473 mm
• Stack: 631 mm
• Steering angle: 64.8 degrees
• Seat angle: 76 degrees
• Chainstay length: 438 mm

The features of the BH iLynx+ 9.5

The range extender is already included on our test model, the lightweight full carbon frame and the many options for customising the paintwork are likely to cost a lot of money. Despite the high price level, BH therefore "only" installs upper mid-range equipment. The stocky fork with 38 mm stanchions is striking. XT parts for brakes and gears are tried and tested, the wheels are high-quality aluminium parts from Raceface. The fact that the bike is still so light is almost surprising. With a 36 mm fork and some carbon parts, tuners can easily save half a kilo.

• Fork / damper: Fox 38 Performance / Float X Performance
• Circuit: Shimano XT (12-speed)
• Brakes: Shimano XT / 203/203 mm
• Impellers: Raceface Aeffect 30 TR
• Tyres: Maxxis DHF Exo+ / DHR II Exo+, 29 x 2.5 / 29 x 2.4

>> BH from Spain: The brand's bikes at a glance

Practical test: How the BH iLynx+ Enduro 9.5 rides

On the trail the lightweight Spaniard is pleasantly neutral. Due to the low front end, the riding position is slightly stretched, especially as the seat angle is not excessively steep. This is particularly noticeable on steep climbs. Here you have to consciously place your hips on the somewhat uncomfortable saddle nose so that the front doesn't get too light too quickly.

But then the BH rides very well uphill, is remarkably easy to manoeuvre through tight bends and, thanks to the Shimano motor, which has been improved with race software and has good trail, it can handle some key sections. Criticism: In addition to the slightly too inactive riding position, the traction could also be a little better. Nevertheless, the BH is a solid partner for some demanding Alpine tours. Incidentally, the range extender and water bottle fit in the bike at the same time. This is an absolute rarity for e-MTBs and a big plus point.

Its touring qualities The iLynx+ SL also proves its downhill capabilities. Unlike its competitors from Cannondale or Amflow, you don't have to break the sound barrier to realise the bike's potential. With a slightly steeper head angle and short chainstays, the iLynx+ SL steers comfortably even with a moderate riding style and still has good reserves for medium speeds.

This makes the handling very accessible, but also has disadvantages. The BH does not encourage an active riding style and is not so easy to pull onto the rear wheel. When things do get rough and fast, the suspension reaches its limits. It's also a shame that the BH loses a few points with unnecessary little things. The Tele lever is not very ergonomic and the 150 millimetre dropper post is very short. The low front end and steep head angle are not conducive to steep descents, and the motor and cables rattle. It is precisely because of the downhill characteristics that the model suffix Enduro is misleading - but as a classic all-mountain bike, the BH is very appealing.

BIKE review of the BH iLynx+ SL Enduro 9.5

Strengths

• Range extender included
• uncomplicated handling, balanced performance
• Custom paint at no extra charge
• High payload
• light

Weaknesses

• not outstanding in any discipline
• Small weaknesses in detail
• Permanently installed battery

The BIKE conclusion

No BH e-bike has ever impressed us as much as the iLynx+ SL. Balanced and powerful, it can score points in many situations and shines with its low weight, high weight approval and modular battery concept. However, it's not a revelation on rough descents and BH should tweak a few details. - Adrian Kaether, BIKE test editor