A departure from the classic, diamond-shaped frame design - engineers have been trying out new designs for as long as mountain bikes have existed. Often, however, it was only the look that inspired. And it was not uncommon to see a rueful return to the classic triangular shape. This is because pure function, i.e. weight in relation to stiffness, as well as important features such as the ability to lower the seat post and the rear suspension kinematics, often fell by the wayside. There are also plenty of Y-shaped frames in the box of discarded designs. Visually chic and extravagant, but unfortunately purely functional, they are a pipe-wrecker.
BH, the small forge from northern Spain, has taken up the Y-design again on the new top model, as it has clear advantages on an E-MTB. We have already had the opportunity to scrutinise the "Atom X" extensively on the trails of Malaga.
The centrepiece of the frame is a closed down tube and an elegantly hydroformed top tube, which practically encloses the head tube at the front. This unconventional design, patented by BH, allows the in-house 720 watt-hour battery to be accommodated, which can be easily removed from the top after opening a flap. In contrast to other integrated designs, the battery sits in a closed tube instead of in a shell construction with a lid. This should make the chassis particularly rigid and light. The battery can be removed either with a key or with the specially developed Smart Key wristband.
BH has chosen the powerful "Drive S" motor from Brose as the power unit, which is protected in the bottom bracket area with a special three-millimetre thick aluminium plate (bashguard). To prevent overheating, BH also installs an aluminium plate (head dissipation plate) on the motor.
In addition to the extra-large battery, the in-house 2.2-inch "head-up" display also bears the BH designers' very own signature. This is made of solid aluminium and is integrated into the stem. The switch for switching between the four support levels is in the usual position and is equipped with LEDs and a vibration alarm. In addition to the classic information such as support level, speed and charge level, the on-board computer also provides additional information such as the battery's state of wear. Of course, the motor characteristics can also be tuned via the software. There is also a special BH app for smartphones.
On the suspension side, the "Atom X" aims to fulfil the requirements of a true enduro bike. At least the top model, the Atom X 6, features a powerful multi-link rear triangle with a Fox Float DPS shock (150 millimetres of travel) and a Fox 36 Float Performance fork. With Shimano XT/SLX Mix, Schwalbe Nobby Nic tyres and Kind Shock dropper post, the flagship model costs 5499 euros. The Atom X 5 model, which also costs 5499 euros, is intended to play in the all-mountain league with its 140 mm Fox 34 fork. The entry-level model is the Atom X 29", a hardtail for 3199 euros.
Our driving impression
The Atom X 6, which was available to us in Malaga for a first ride impression, is nimble and playful on the trails. With what feels like a fairly short reach and not too slack angles, it rides neutrally even at slow speeds. The suspension works sensitively and the rear suspension irons out small and large obstacles alike. BH has placed particular emphasis on handling and the rider information system. The display is prominent, large and the menu navigation is well thought out. However, its position is very exposed and, despite its solid construction, it is susceptible to damage and scratches easily. The large battery can be conveniently removed for charging via the Smart Key wristband. Overall, the bike looks very well thought out and will find its place in the high-end all-mountain and enduro market. Schwalbe's Nobby Nic tyres in the 2.8 Plus version give cause for criticism, as they are known to be prone to punctures at the correct air pressure (1.2 bar). The total weight also seems quite high at over 24 kilos.
The range of the Atom X with its 720 watt-hour battery will be interesting, but we don't want to pass judgement on it yet based on the first driving report. We will bring you these and other hard measurements in a detailed test in the EMTB issue 2/2018.
