Review: Bulls Machete Evo SX 2 2027 – a lightweight e-gravel bike with Bosch SX

Lightweight e-gravel bikes combine the dynamic riding experience of a gravel bike with subtle electric assistance. This is precisely the category into which the Bulls Machete Evo SX 2. For 2027, Bulls is equipping the €5,999 model with, amongst other things, a Bosch SX drive unit, high-end carbon wheels from Mavic, electronic SRAM gearshift and a RockShox Rudy suspension fork.

Despite its motor, removable battery and integrated lights, the Bulls e-gravel bike is said to weigh just 16.5 kilograms (manufacturer’s specification).

Conclusion on the Bulls Machete Evo SX 2

With a manufacturer’s weight of 16.5 kilograms, the Bulls Machete Evo SX 2 is one of the lighter e-gravel bikes. Particularly appealing is the combination of a sporty Bosch SX drive, a removable 400 Wh battery and premium off-road-ready spec. That is, if you’re prepared to pay for it - Adrian Kaether, Test & Technology Editor

Lightweight Bosch SX motor and removable 400 Wh battery

When it comes to electric assistance, the Bulls Machete Evo SX 2 a Bosch SX motor (reviewed here) responsible. The compact motor was developed for sporty e-MTBs and is therefore well suited to the requirements of a lightweight e-gravel bike. With up to 60 Nm and 600 watts, it now offers a relatively high peak power output. Many e-gravel bikes otherwise have to make do with significantly less.

Power is supplied by a removable 400 watt-hour battery. This is particularly handy when the bike cannot be parked right next to a socket. The battery can be charged separately at home, in the office or whilst out and about. The Bosch Purion 400 display shows the key information about the drive system. It is positioned clearly on the handlebars without unnecessarily cluttering up the sleek, sporty cockpit.

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Carbon frames and weight

Its light weight is one of the key features of the Bull Machete Evo SX 2. According to the manufacturer, this e-gravel bike weighs 16.5 kilograms. Compared to traditional gravel bikes weighing under 10 kilos, that sounds like a lot, but for an e-bike it’s actually quite light. Especially with a removable battery.

The low weight is likely to be particularly noticeable when accelerating, on winding gravel tracks and when riding without motor assistance. Every kilogram saved is also welcome when carrying the bike up stairs or loading it into a car. The Machete Evo SX 2 is designed to offer a riding experience closer to that of a classic gravel bike than significantly heavier e-bikes with large batteries.

SRAM Rival electronic groupset for fast gear changes

The Bulls Machete Evo SX 2 is equipped with a 12-speed electronic SRAM Rival groupset. This high-end electronic gear system is designed to enable fast and precise gear changes. This is particularly useful on varied terrain, when switching rapidly between fast tarmac sections and steep gravel climbs.

Thanks to electronic signal transmission, the gear system does not require traditional mechanical shift cables. This contributes to the clean, uncluttered look of this sporty e-gravel bike. To avoid the need to charge a separate battery, the gear system is connected to the main battery via a cable.

Mavic Allroad carbon wheels improve acceleration

When it comes to wheels, Bulls has opted for a Mavic Allroad carbon wheelset. Weighing 1,550 grams, the carbon wheels are designed to reduce rotating mass, thereby improving handling and acceleration. Less rotating mass is particularly noticeable during acceleration and when changing pace frequently.

This means the Mavic wheels complement the sporty character of the Machete Evo SX 2. At the same time, the all-road design is tailored for mixed use on tarmac, gravel tracks and gentle terrain.

45-millimetre-wide Schwalbe G-One RX tyres

The carbon wheels are fitted with 45-millimetre-wide Schwalbe tyres featuring the G-One RX tread pattern. The comparatively coarse tread pattern is designed to provide good grip even on loose ground.

The wide tyres also promise greater comfort and control on rough gravel tracks. With the correct tyre pressure, they can absorb minor bumps and vibrations. At the same time, with its gravel handlebars and sporty geometry, the Bulls Machete Evo SX 2 is clearly designed for fast riding.

Rockshox Rudy suspension fork with lockout

The RockShox Rudy air suspension fork offers additional comfort. It is designed to absorb shocks on rough terrain and improve the front wheel’s contact with the ground. Riders can benefit from this particularly on coarse gravel, washed-out forest tracks or easy trails.

For fast rides on smooth tarmac, the suspension fork features a lockout. This allows it to be locked to reduce unwanted bobbing whilst pedalling. This broadens the e-gravel bike’s range of use without compromising on its sporty performance.

SP Connect on the stem with power supply

There’s a clever detail on the stem. Bulls has integrated an SP-Connect interface with a power supply there. With a compatible mount, a smartphone can be secured in the centre of your field of vision.

This means, for example, that the mobile phone can be used as a sat-nav. With the right accessories, wireless charging is also possible whilst driving. This is particularly handy on longer journeys, as sat-nav and a display that’s constantly on can use up a lot of power.

Integrated Supernova lighting

The Bulls Machete Evo SX 2 is also fitted with permanently installed lighting. The rear light is discreetly integrated into the frame. At the front, a Supernova Starstream Mini light is fitted, mounted on the handlebars.

The integrated solution keeps the cockpit tidy and makes separate battery-powered lights largely redundant. At the same time, the permanently fitted lighting system enhances the bike’s suitability for everyday use. The Machete Evo SX 2 is therefore not only suitable for sporty gravel rides, but also for commuting and longer tours into the twilight.

Who is the Bulls Machete Evo SX 2 suitable for?

The Bulls Machete Evo SX 2 is aimed at riders looking for a lightweight and sporty premium e-gravel bike suitable for a variety of terrains. The Bosch SX drive is designed primarily to provide assistance on climbs or over longer distances, without compromising the typical riding feel of a gravel bike.

The combination of wide Schwalbe tyres and a RockShox Rudy suspension fork is likely to make the bike particularly appealing for challenging gravel rides. Carbon wheels, an electronic SRAM Rival groupset and the bike’s light weight also cater to sporty riders who want to ride at high speeds.

Thanks to its removable battery, smartphone charging function and integrated lighting, the Bulls also offers practical features for touring and everyday use.

​Bulls Machete Evo SX 2 at a glance

• Lightweight e-gravel bike for tarmac and off-road riding
• Bosch SX motor
• Removable 400 Wh battery
• Bosch Purion 400 display
• SRAM Rival electronic gear system
• Mavic Allroad Carbon Wheelsets
• Rockshox Rudy suspension fork with lockout
• 45-millimetre-wide Schwalbe G-One RX tyres
• SP-Connect interface with power supply
• Integrated lighting by Supernova
• Manufacturer's weight: 16.5 kilograms
• Price: 5,999 euros