Scott Lumen & Patron: 7.6 kilogram difference - how to put E-MTBs on a diet

Using the example of Scott's top touring bikes Patron (test here) and Lumen (here in the test) we investigated the question of what exactly makes current e-mountainbikes so light. Because, even though exciting new power motors such as DJI's Avinox and ZF's Zentrix Light e-MTBs are still the big trend among e-mountainbikes. The low weight of the trail speedsters simply promises better handling on the trail and is less annoying when you have to heave the bike onto the bike rack or up the cellar stairs.

Scott Lumen & Patron: What makes the Lumen so light?

Of course, Lumen and Patron are slightly different at first glance. One bike has 160 millimetres of travel, the other only 130 millimetres. Scott also uses motors of different power. However, both bikes are designed as tourers, but the Lumen takes a much sportier line. If you want a light e-MTB, you also want to pedal hard and are prepared to accept significantly less comfort for a lower weight, so the argument goes.

This starts with the seating position of the Lumen, but on the scales, the significantly lighter frame is particularly noticeable alongside the lighter motor and battery. Scott can save a whopping 1.2 kilos here. Scott claims that the Lumen frame weighs less than two kilograms, making the chassis really light even for a bike without a motor. Striking: With the thick, removable battery of the Patron, such a weight would certainly not be possible.

Weight release, comfort, range of use: this is where the Patron scores points

In return, however, the Lumen is only approved for moderate to technical terrain and a system weight of 110 kilos, while the Patron allows very technical terrain and a system weight of 128 kilos. In order to ultimately realise the low overall weight of the Lumen, every detail of the equipment must also be trimmed for lightweight construction. This has a significant impact in practice, especially when it comes to tyres and suspension elements. The lightweight bike simply rides a little less safely and is significantly less comfortable when going downhill. Although the Patron weighs noticeably more overall, it is clearly ahead of the athletic Lumen in terms of suspension comfort and riding safety.

Minus 7.2 kilos - saving weight: facts at a glance

• Model: Scott Patron / Scott Lumen
• Frame: 3.16 kg / 1.95 kg: -1.21 kg
• Motor: 2.7 kg / 1.89 kg: -0.88 kg
• Battery: 4.35 / 1.85 kg: -2.5 kg
• Suspension fork: 2.35 kg / 1.89 kg: -0.46 kg
• Wheels: 1.9 kg / 1.26 kg: -0.64 kg
• Tyres: 2.38 kg / 1.7 kg: - 0.68 kg

Brakes and add-on parts save a further 1.2 kilos. This means that the Lumen undercuts the Patron by a total of 7.6 kilograms.

BIKE verdict on the E-MTB comparison: Scott Lumen vs Patron

The Lumen made headlines at the beginning of 2023 with its record weight. One thing is clear: Scott can only get the Lumen down to under 16 kilos through consistent lightweight construction. This starts with the motor and battery, but extends through the frame to the components. As a result, the Lumen appeals to athletes and ex-marathon riders who are rarely out and about on difficult terrain. Although the Patron is heavier, it is also less complicated, more comfortable and therefore probably the better bike overall for a broad target group. - Adrian Kaether, Test and Technology Editor for BIKE and EMTB