If you're aiming for challenging descents, bike park excursions and big jumps, there are only a few options under 5000 euros. However, the E-Sommet VR, which is only available in Germany directly from the mail-order company fahrrad.de, is the perfect choice. Our Practical test with six E-Fullys up to 5500 euros shows that someone has thought about the needs of gravity bikers with this E-Enduro. The designers have opted for a small rear wheel and short chainstays for fun handling and invested in the suspension and tyres. For 4500 euros, this package is unrivalled.
However, you have to make compromises when it comes to the drive. The old E7000 motor from Shimano delivers noticeably less thrust and is also heavier and larger than more modern models such as the EP8. Added to this is a small 500 Wh battery, which only delivers just over 1000 metres in altitude at full support. Together with the somewhat older motor, this is more suitable for a few relaxed shuttle laps with low support than for long full-throttle uphills on trails. But these are not the bike's strong point anyway. The riding position is sporty.
Vitus E-Sommet VR: Geometry & suspension
In addition to the weaker motor, the geometry is also not designed for nasty climbs. Traction is good, but the front end climbs early due to the short rear end. Once at the top, the E-Sommet's showpiece discipline begins. Thanks to the low bottom bracket, you are comfortably integrated behind the high front end on downhill sections. This gives you a lot of confidence on steep sections. The low centre of gravity also ensures excellent cornering.
The geometry of the E-Sommet is successful; the steering angle and wheelbase are moderate by enduro standards. Together with the short chainstays, this results in playful handling. The bike is easy to pull into a bunny hop or onto the rear wheel and is therefore particularly suitable for active riders who don't just want to rumble clumsily over rock gardens. However, riders should not be too heavy. With a permissible system weight of 120 kilos, the rider's weight is limited to just under 95 kilos.
The successful suspension with Superdeluxe shock and thick Rockshox Domain fork offers plenty of reserves and support. There is no bottomless hoover feeling. The strong Maxxis tyres with robust carcass and soft rubber compound are not a matter of course, even in the high-end league. Also strong: The bike is very quiet on the downhill, which gives it a very high-quality feel.
Conclusion on the Vitus E-Sommet VR
If you can do without a top drive unit, the E-Sommet is a great E-Enduro at a fair price. Balanced geometry, good suspension, harmonious equipment: guaranteed fun! - Florentin Vesenbeckh, Test Manager EMTB
Technical data and notes Vitus E-Sommet VR
Manufacturer information
- Price: 4499 Euro
- Sizes (seat tube) / frame material: S, M, L (tested size 43 cm), XL / Aluminium
Measured values²
- Weight²: 25.36 kg
- Range¹: 1008 (+111)hm
- Average speed: 12.1 km/h
- Centre of gravity height: 518 mm
- Handlebar width: 780 mm
- Crank length / Q-factor: 165 mm / 188 mm
- Ground clearance⁴: 474 mm
Equipment
- Motor: Shimano E7000
- Max. Torque³: 60 Nm
- Battery³ / weight² / price Replacement battery: Shimano, 504 Wh / 2888 g / approx. 675 Euro
- Gear system: Shimano Deore (11-speed)
- Translation (v. / h.): 34; 11-51
- Display: SC-E7000
- Permissible total weight³: 120 kg
- Fork / shock: Rockshox Domain R / Superdeluxe Select
- Front / rear suspension travel: 170 / 167 mm
- Telescopic post: Brand-X Ascend, 170 mm
- Brake / Disc Ø (front / rear): Sram DB 8 / 200 mm / 200 mm
- Wheels: Vitus hubs; WTB ST Light i30 rims
- Tyres: Maxxis Assegai DD MaxxGrip, 29 x 2.5" / Highroller II DD MaxxTerra, 27.5 x 2.5"
EMTB test rating⁵: 7.7 points - good
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 clearly reduced emergency mode are shown in brackets. The average speed refers to the journey with full assistance.
² Determined on the test benches in the EMTB test laboratory, weight without pedals. Battery weight incl. screwed-on cover where applicable.
³ Manufacturer's specification
⁴ Step test, measured with 36 centimetre raised rear wheel
⁵ The judgement reflects the subjective impression of the testers and the results of the reach measurement and laboratory tests. The EMTB judgement is independent of price. EMTB judgements: super (from 9.0), very good (from 8.0), good (from 7.0), satisfactory (from 6.0), with weaknesses (from 5.0), below insufficient.
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
