KTM Macina Gravelator HX – Review: E-gravel bike with Bosch hub motor for €2,499

​Conclusion: The price argument holds water – provided you’re aware of the compromises

The KTM Macina Gravelator HX is an e-gravel bike that, on paper, gets a lot right: carbon fork, hydraulic brakes, Bosch drive, integrated battery – all for 2,499 euros. In this price range, the package is indeed remarkable. However, anyone who thinks they’re getting a gravel e-bike without any noticeable compromises should adjust their expectations. The hub motor is a compromise, the weight isn’t a unique selling point, and the gear system is entry-level. The Gravelator HX isn’t a flawless offering – but it’s an exciting one. — Sebastian Brust, Test & Technology Editor

Bosch Hub Line in gravel riding: Bold or pragmatic?

The fact that Bosch is now unveiling a rear-hub motor after years of mid-motor dominance is quite a statement. With 45 Nm of torque and a rated power output of 400 W, the new Hub Line is positioned well below the 75–100 Nm and above that typical of some mid-motors. But even the Bosch SX’s output of just under 50 Nm is often more than enough for a gravel bike.

KTM is using the affordable Bosch hub motor in a gravel concept – and that’s a bold move. Whether it’s a wise one depends very much on how the bike is used. The system works well on flat to undulating gravel routes. However, anyone regularly tackling steep climbs on loose ground will quickly reach the limits of the Hub Line. The motor isn’t a powerhouse – it’s a helper for moderate terrain. That’s something you should know before buying.

The discreet battery housing in the rear wheel hub has its own appeal: the frame remains slim, giving it a look that’s close to that of a classic gravel bike. The integrated 400 Wh Bosch Compacttube battery can be removed from the top – which is handy for everyday use.

Whilst 400 Wh isn’t a particularly generous battery capacity, it’s at least a decent one for an energy-efficient e-bike motor used on gravel. For ambitious day trips and bikepacking stages, however, the capacity could become a limiting factor. On challenging terrain, the need to use higher assistance levels more frequently further reduces the range. Nevertheless, three-figure distances are still within reach.

Frame & Fork: What to Expect – and What Not to Expect

The frame is made from AL6061 aluminium. It’s well-crafted; the welds are neat but unpolished, and the paint finish is durable. Anyone expecting a carbon frame in this price range is looking in the wrong place.

The realm of genuinely lightweight e-bikes begins at under 15 kilograms; at 17.5 kilograms, the Gravelator HX remains well above that. As a measure of lightweight design, this figure is therefore just as meaningless as any glimmer of hope for effortless pedalling above the 25 km/h limit. This is important for correctly understanding the bike’s positioning: it is not a lightweight gravel bike with e-assist, but a reasonably lightweight e-bike with gravel ambitions. That is a difference.

The carbon gravel fork is the standout feature of the chassis. A carbon fork in this price range is by no means a given. The mounting points for bikepacking bags or mudguards are practical for everyday use.

Regarding the system weight: a maximum authorised mass of 128 kilograms is rather restrictive in this category. After deducting the vehicle’s unladen weight, this leaves a maximum payload of just over 110 kilos. Anyone who is large in build, carries a heavy load, or both, will quickly approach this limit. For a gravel bike that is also marketed for bikepacking, this is not really a selling point.

Circuit: Entry level – no more, no less

Shimano’s CUES U4000 Performs reliably as a bike drivetrain. Nine gears; with the 11–46 cassette, it offers sufficient gear range for flat to undulating gravel terrain, and is low-maintenance. However, the 4000 series CUES sits at the very bottom of Shimano’s new CUES range. Features such as the Shadow Plus rear derailleur damper are only available on the 6000 series. For a bike in this price range, that’s reasonable.

That said, the affordable Shimano gear system is considered particularly durable. Of particular interest to frequent cyclists: when used in conjunction with the hub motor, the chain is subjected to significantly less mechanical stress than with mid-drive systems, which noticeably extends the service life of the drivetrain.

Brakes: The standout feature in this price range

A hydraulic twin-piston disc brake, such as those found on the CUES range, is the minimum a motorised gravel bike should be equipped with. Although the in-house GRX brake is even more responsive, the CUES’s bite point and modulation are just right, and its stopping power is sufficient for moderate gravel terrain.

Anyone who frequently rides with luggage, in alpine terrain or on long descents will find themselves missing larger brake discs. For typical low-mountain terrain, however, this combination works well – and is a real selling point for the Gravelator HX compared to competitors with mechanical brakes in this price range.

The price: the strongest argument

E-gravel bikes start at 2,499 euros. That’s the essence of this bike. For that price, you get a carbon fork, hydraulic Shimano brakes, a Bosch drive unit, an integrated battery and a full nine-speed gear system. This combination is hard to find on the market.

Anyone looking for a fully-fledged e-gravel bike with a mid-drive motor, more torque and a larger battery will have to dig much deeper into their pockets – often 1,000 euros or more. The Gravelator HX is not a perfect gravel bike. But it’s a fair option for newcomers to the segment, occasional riders and anyone looking for an e-gravel bike suitable for everyday use without breaking the bank.

Technical Specifications