Light e-MTBs are a refreshing counter-trend to increasingly heavy e-mountainbikes. However, the new category was previously aimed at specialists. Firstly, the vast majority of models in the Minimal assist type wickedly expensive. Secondly, the extreme orientation with little motor power and mini battery limited the range of use. Heavy riders? Difficult. Long, steep Alpine climbs? Real battery killers. However, lightweight fun bikes are slowly becoming interesting for the masses. Orbea has done just that with the new Rise H, the Aluminium model of the convincing carbon speedster Rise, an Two adjusting screws turned.
Light e-MTB at an affordable price: The Rise H from 4999 euros
Number one: The price. Previous light eMTBs were trimmed for high-end. With carbon frames and super-lightweight components, there should be an aha effect. Inexpensive models were sought in vain. The Rise H is from 4999 Euro to be available. A price below which even classic e-mountainbikes are hard to come by. The weight of the standard class in this price range averages just under 25 kilos. Thanks to the lightweight aluminium frame (3400 grams/manufacturer's specification), the entry-level model of the Rise H only 20 kilos weigh.
Full range: up to 800 watt hours with a maximum of 21.5 kilograms
The next point that should contribute to general compatibility is the battery size. 540 watt hours are permanently installed in the down tube of the new aluminium frame. This significantly increases the range of action compared to the 360 Wh of the Rise in carbon. Added to this is a Range extender in water bottle format (1.5 kg), which provides an additional 252 Wh. So in total just under 800 watt hours available - and that with a total weight of 21.5 kilos for the entry-level model.
As before, however, the Shimano EP8 RS drivetrain has been specially configured for Orbea. This brings Maximum 60 Newton metres instead of the usual 80 Newton metres on the chain. The reduced power is intended to protect the components and extend the range. For this reason, Orbea has deliberately dispensed with a full throttle mode.
The facts about the Orbea Rise H
- Motor: Shimano EP8 RS, max. 60 Nm
- Battery: 540 watt hours, fixed in the down tube
- Optional: additional battery with 252 Wh (1.5 kg)
- Aluminium frame: 3400 grams (manufacturer's specification)
- 29 inch wheels
- 140 mm suspension travel, option of 150/140 mm
- Weight: From 19 kilos (manufacturer's specification)
- Three equipment variants from 4999 euros (previously only in carbon fibre from 6299 euros)
The geometry of the Orbea Rise H at a glance
In terms of geometry, Orbea relies on the proven data of its big brother with a carbon frame. In other words, a modern but moderate geometry should ensure plenty of trail fun. In our tests, the Rise has always proved to be a lively and fun trail bike. Four frame sizes from S to XL are available.
Equipment and prices for the Aluminium-Rise
The Rise H will be available in three equipment variants. As usual with Orbea, details can be customised to personal preferences in the MyO configurator. The bikes should be available from the beginning of December. The carbon models are of course still available. Here, the down tube remains at 360 Wh in favour of weight. Prices for the Rise with carbon frame range from 6299 to 9999 euros.
More new, lightweight e-mountainbikes for 2022
Light e-MTBs are booming, and not just at Orbea! In our new EMTB issue 6/2021, you'll find lots of news on new projects and concepts that e-mountain bikers can expect in 2022. Included are initial tests of the exciting new products from Forestal and Transalpes.
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
