This time we didn't have to worry about being recognised on the trail with the new e-mountainbike from Rotwild. Even without the Erlkönig look: the new Rotwild R.X735 is perfectly camouflaged. Silhouette, rear triangle construction, equipment - the e-bike is hardly visually distinguishable from Rotwilds Light E-MTB R.X375 to distinguish.
How does the supposed light eMTB perform on the trail? The detailed test including lab data can be found in EMTB 4/22. From 16 August in specialist shops, as a digital edition and in the DK Kiosk app.
The visual proximity to the Light-E-MTB is intentional, say the developers. Rotwild's lightweight R.X375 and the new R.X735 are aimed at a similar target group. The new e-mountainbike with Shimano EP8 is designed to steer more directly, even with a large battery, and provide more feedback from the ground, making it the sporty alternative to the light eMTB. Comfort-orientated big mountain bike R.X750 with Brose motor be.
The geometry of the new Rotwild R.X735 is in line with the light e-MTB. At 475 millimetres in size L, the reach is modern and slightly longer than the R.X750 with Brose motor. The steering angle of the new bike is also slightly slacker at 65.5 degrees. At 450 millimetres, the chainstays are also slightly longer than on the Brose bike. The low bottom bracket ensures a secure cornering position, but overall the new Rotwild presents itself more as a balanced bike for fast riders than as a maximally playful bike. Sporty uphills shouldn't be a problem thanks to the 29-inch front and rear and the not-too-short chainstays.
The new Rotwild will be available in three versions. The R.X735 Core model is the most affordable version of the new e-mountainbike at € 7999 and comes with Fox Performance suspension and XT drivetrain. The Pro model for 9499 euros has more carbon parts and lighter wheels, but for Fox Factory suspension you have to go for the top-of-the-range Ultra model for a whopping 12,499 euros.
For the upcoming issue of EMTB 4/22, we were able to get a comprehensive impression of the new Rotwild and put the bike through its paces both in the lab and in practice. On the trail, in addition to the low weight, the balanced geometry is particularly noticeable.
This benefits the Rotwild on steep climbs, even if we would have liked the sensitive rear suspension to be higher in its travel. This, and the strong setback of the eight-pin seatpost, sometimes makes the front end feel light. Downhill, on the other hand, the Rotwild impresses with its transparent handling. However, the lightweight Rotwild R.X735 doesn't take to the air or the rear wheel all by itself. The noise level downhill could also be improved.
You can read the detailed test of the Rotwild R.X735 in EMTB 4/22. From 16 August in specialist shops, as a digital edition and in the DK Kiosk app.

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