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Verdict on the Steppenwolf Tundra 9.0 test
With an outstanding motor system, low weight and agile handling, the Tundra 9.0 scores a lot of points. Downhill, however, there are stronger bikes. If you are looking for a combination of low weight, long range and a slim carbon frame, there are hardly any comparable bikes at this price.
Test result
| Property | Grade |
|---|---|
| Riding behavior | 3,0 |
| Lab | 1,6 |
| Equipment | 3,2 |
| Motor | 1,0 |
| Final grade | 2,6 |
You can find the full bike rating here
Data and facts about the Steppenwolf Tundra 9.0
| Preis | 5.199,00 €>> hier erhältlich |
| Suspension travel | 160 mm |
| Wheel size | 29"/622mm |
| Weight | 22.1 kg |
| Motor | Avinox 120Nm |
| Battery | Avinox 800Wh |
| Fork | SR Suntour Durolux 38 EVO Boost |
| Rear shock | SR Suntour Edge Evo TR |
| Drivetrain | SRAM Eagle 70 |
| Front brake | Magura MT 5 |
The Steppenwolf brand is venturing a new start and relying fully on the power of the DJI Avinox engine. The Tundra 9.0 is the entry-level model in the world of sporty e-mountainbikes. In the test, the bike was still fitted with the Avinox M1 - but in future it will be equipped with the even more powerful Avinox M2S (tested here) delivered. The price remains the same. The look and measurements reveal why the Avinox drive (even in the M1 version) is so popular: the Tundra is really slim with the permanently installed 800 Wh battery and also achieves a top value on the scales. 22.1 kilos. Classic e-MTBs in this price range are often two to three kilos heavier.
Please note: We tested the Steppenwolf Tundra 9.0 with Avinox M1. All values refer to this bike. However, according to Steppenwolf, the bike will roll off the production line with Avinox M2S in the future. This is a "running change" in production and the new models will gradually be launched on the market.
This is not only due to the drive, but also the lightweight full carbon frame. A luxury that not many can offer at this price. Unfortunately, Steppenwolf skimps on the tyres. The exo-carcass and the weak tread have no place on an e-MTB with 160 millimetres of travel and off-road ambitions. Buyers should therefore factor in the price of new tyres and a little extra weight. Especially as the Tundra 9.0, with its thick 38 mm Durolux fork from SR Suntour and generous suspension travel, almost has enduro ambitions. But can the bike keep this promise in the practical test?
Superior uphill
The super-powerful Avinox motor makes its mark on the bike not only visually, but also on the climbs. The difference in performance is already Avinox M1 motor (tested here) compared to Bosch and Shimano is so striking that we flew up the tricky, steep trails much faster and more effortlessly in our practical test. However, the maximum power of 1000 watts is too much in places to really keep on track in a controlled and smooth manner. The background noise is also impressive, as the motor never gets unpleasantly loud despite its mega power.
The new M2S is not louder, but it is significantly stronger and smoother. The Tundra is also very easy to get on the ground, as the riding position is very progressive and front-wheel orientated. With reduced engine power, the bike is therefore very easy to control. In the wet, however, the low-profile tyres are overwhelmed far too quickly.
On long tours, you have to be careful with the engine's extreme power. This is because the extremely powerful Avinox consumes a lot of energy in turbo mode. As a result, the battery runs out quickly. And the Tundra does not have the option of a replaceable battery. Furthermore, the entry-level Tundra 9.0 is not supplied with the Avinox fast charger, but with the small 4A charger. This means you will need to upgrade again for quick recharging on tour. However, if you deliberately reduce the power of the Avinox, you can achieve really good ranges with the 800 Wh battery.
Come play with me!
Downhill, the new Steppenwolf leaves a mixed impression. The low weight is clearly noticeable, the bike is light-footed and agile on trails and is a lot of fun to ride on flat terrain. However, the riding position is not ideal. Due to the high bottom bracket and low front end, you are not optimally integrated into the bike. A handlebar with more rise could help.
The suspension also reveals weaknesses. We were unable to achieve a perfect setup on the rear suspension. Either the rear end was a little stubborn and used the travel too sparingly, or it lacked support. Many other e-MTBs with 160 millimetres of travel are more plush on the trail and take on hard hits more confidently.
The choice of tyres also costs safety and control in difficult terrain. Of course, you can venture onto difficult trails even with these flaws. But in a direct comparison, the Tundra can't keep up with the best downhill bikes. It is definitely more of a trail bike than an enduro bike.
Strengths and weaknesses Tundra 9.0
Strengths
- Strong uphill
- Massive motor power
- Very light and slim
Weaknesses
- somewhat stilted driving position
- Chassis performance
- only three frame sizes, long seat tube
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
