The HPR 60 from TQ makes an impact. While Fazua in particular with the final cancellation of the range extender is stirring up unrestthe light drive from Ammersee is really taking off. And no wonder. Its compact design combined with the HPR 60 (tested here) now with a stylish new display, more power, less derating and a still best-in-class, super-quiet drive noise.
The Stevens' full carbon frame houses the new HPR 60 from TQ with up to 60 Nm and 350 watts of peak power. The elegant chassis with carbon main frame and carbon rear triangle and even carbon rocker remains unchanged from its predecessor. The familiar battery with 360 watt hours is still used. Optionally, the range can be extended by 160 Wh using a range extender.
As before, the battery can be removed via a service flap with a few delicate screws without removing the engine. Without a guide rail and with a little patience and the use of tools, this is not a solution for every day. If necessary, however, the battery can be removed and installed in five minutes.
Lightweight E-MTBs usually fall into two categories. Fast and super light, but with little suspension travel like Scotts Lumen or the extremely reduced Red Deer R.X275 or clearly trail-orientated like Stevens' own E-Maverick EN with 160/150 millimetres of travel and usually 19 kilos upwards. The E-Maverick AM could therefore be an exciting option for many.
With 140 millimetres of travel and an upright riding position, there is little need to compromise on comfort. Fast tyres ensure good propulsion and low battery consumption on the trail. The weight is particularly impressive. At 17.4 kilograms, the Stevens is really light even in R4 (size L - XL), despite its medium stroke and sturdy fork.
And speaking of forks: the Stevens E-Maverick model update is particularly noticeable in the suspension. Instead of the Rockshox components in the previous model, the suspension is now an extra-light Fox 36 SL Factory in combination with a Float Factory with three-way adjustable compression damping at the rear. What remains are snappy XTR stoppers, carbon wheels from DT Swiss and an X0 transmission. With Shimano brakes and Sram gears, this is an unusual but functional mix.
In addition to our test bike, the top model AM 9.4.3. for 9499 euros, the new E-Maverick is also available as the AM 7.4.3. with slightly cheaper Rockshox suspension. However, the Pike and Deluxe shock in Select+ design are already of very high quality and are hardly inferior to the top components in terms of function. Shifting is by mechanical Shimano XT. The model with more travel ED 9.4.3. for 7499 euros remains unchanged for the time being, including the older HPR 50 motor.
Cross-country weapon or trail bike? Where most light eMTBs tend towards the extreme, Stevens is looking for the balanced centre with the E-Maverick. This was already the case with its predecessor, but with the new E-Maverick AM 9.4.3. the balanced, touring character comes through even better. Stevens has raised the low front end slightly with riser handlebars. The riding position is now noticeably more comfortable and you feel more confident on steep downhill rides. Instead of the super-fast Wicked Will tyres, there is now a Nobby Nic on the front wheel for a little more grip even in adverse conditions.
However, Stevens takes a cautious approach and does not trim the E-Maverick too much for downhill riding. That's a good thing, because there are already many bikes like this on the market. The advantage of the Stevens: With the fast tyres and low weight, you can easily pedal over 25 km/h on flat terrain. The motor only has to work noticeably when the going gets tough or you run out of energy at the end of the tour. The result is a high action radius despite the small and light battery.
Here, the Stevens is very similar to the Extremos from Scott and Rotwild, but rides more relaxed. And the Light E-MTB from Hamburg also offers a little more reserves off-road. The suspension with 140 millimetres of travel can also handle some speed on built trails. The new Fox 36 SL fork with GripX damping is particularly comfortable and even outperforms the rear end in terms of composure and sensitivity. One thing is clear: the fast tyres take their toll in poor trail conditions. However, the geometry and components offer a lot of feel-good factor, even on more demanding trails. On the other hand, those who like to hold on downhill will find more suitable candidates.
Successful new edition. With the improved HPR 60 motor, Stevens has brought the E-Maverick up to date. The cautious spec updates leave the concept essentially untouched. The E-Maverick AM primarily appeals to a clientele that is not always looking for maximum downhill action, but nevertheless does not lack a certain sovereignty off-road. The ride comfort is high. Especially for fans of classic tours who switch from lightweight fullys to e-bikes for a little more comfort and a slight tailwind uphill, this is a recommendation. - Adrian Kaether, Editor Test & Technology

Editor