The range comprises three models with different equipment variants: Powerfly, Powerfly FS and Powerfly LT. Prices start at 2699 euros for the Powerfly 5 hardtail, while the Powerfly with the FS suffix is a fully with 130 millimetres of travel on the front and rear wheels. We took a closer look at the top model Powerfly LT 9 and rode it extensively. Cost point: 5599 euros. LT stands for Long Travel, as the bike offers 150 millimetres of travel. In addition, fat 2.8 inch Bontrager Chupacabra tyres spin around the hubs with a wide Boost standard. The drive unit is a Bosch CX drive on the bottom bracket and is operated from the handlebars via the brand new Bosch Purion display.
The relaxed, sporty riding position is immediately pleasing as soon as you get on the bike. The cockpit looks tidy and functional: the display for the drive and the control lever for the remote seat post are on the left. It is shaped like a shifter. On the right-hand side is the gear lever for the new EX-1 drivetrain from Sram. It was specially developed for e-mountainbikes: it can manage eight gears from 11-48 teeth and can even be changed under load. Only one chainring is required at the front.
The overall package makes it possible to climb extreme inclines. And it is great fun to explore the limits of what is possible. The battery provides 500 watt hours, which is enough for over 1500 metres in altitude.
Downhill, the bike offers enormous reserves: the combination of the 150 millimetre suspension with the large contact area of the fat tyres provides plenty of traction. The forgiving handling gives the rider confidence and yet the bike remains agile enough to cope with angled sections. The Bosch CX drive in combination with the great gearing pushes the limits when climbing uphill. A real fun machine.