Full-suspension crossover e-bikes like the Stevens E-Inception are fit for rough terrain as well as field and forest tracks. Because they also cut a fine figure on tarmac, rolling over kerbs and potholes without complaint, they are almost perfect all-rounders. Only almost perfect because the full suspension with rear swing arm, shock absorber and suspension fork makes the bikes very comfortable, but also heavy. The shock absorber elements also require regular maintenance. Their wide tyres and rims increase the rotating masses, which is why the bolides are less lively than lighter trekking pedelecs. The flat steering angle derived from mountain bikes and the resulting long wheelbase stabilise the straight-line stability of crossover tourers. This is a great safety benefit on steep descents in rough terrain, but also comes at the expense of agile handling.
What are the benefits of full suspension on an e-bike?
Full-suspension suspension makes e-bikes incomparably comfortable. The more favourable the ratio between sprung and unsprung mass, the more comfortable. The unsprung mass essentially includes the wheels, brakes, rear swing arm and pannier rack. These components are positioned virtually in front of the suspension and should be as light as possible. They follow the road profile, while the sprung mass - consisting of the rider and the rest of the frame assembly - ideally remains on its horizontal plane with little movement.
As a general rule, the heavier the unsprung mass is compared to the sprung mass, the less sensitive full suspension is. Full-suspension riders feel this especially with a lot of luggage on the carrier, as the rear wheel is then less able to follow the ground. It loses traction and, in the worst case, smears. Nevertheless, a full-suspension pedelec also benefits with a lot of weight on the carrier. This is because the high weight of the rider, motor, battery and the rest of the frame assembly is damped and the sprung masses remain high in relation to the unsprung masses. If the suspension and damping are correctly adjusted, the pedelec rolls more safely over obstacles, even with luggage. On full-suspension bikes, road shocks only marginally penetrate the saddle. The rider sits more relaxed and does not tire as quickly. Traction is improved, the bike can be controlled more efficiently and rolls more safely.
Nevertheless, a crossover pedelec can be exactly the right choice: it is versatile, comfortable and very versatile. It is obvious for bike manufacturers to use the frame geometry and equipment of mountain bikes as the basis for crossover pedelecs. After all, much of what a crossover tourer needs is standard on E-MTB fullys. Stevens didn't have to change much about the frame to derive a crossover e-bike from the current all-mountain series. The frame design, shock linkage and even the fairly slack head tube angle of just 66 degrees prove that the E-Inception is directly descended from a mountain bike. Most of the other components would also look good on an e-MTB. The 29-inch wheels, gears, brakes, stem, handlebars and dropper post seatpost are also found on current off-road specialists. Only the fully adjustable Rock Shox suspension has been moderately designed by Stevens, 120 millimetres of travel will have to suffice. Schwalbe's Johnny Watts studded tyre is a very good compromise, but it would not be the first choice for technically demanding trails. On the other hand, it runs smoothly and with good grip on tarmac.
Stevens has reached for the high-end shelf when choosing the road equipment. An M99 Mini Pro 25 headlight from Supernova with high beam function adorns the centre of the handlebars. The headlight has automatic switch-on and close-range illumination, and the high beam lights up the night with a full 260 lux. The petite rear light comes from Busch und Müller and fits inconspicuously into the rear mudguard. Only panniers can be attached to the pannier rack; they can weigh a maximum of eight kilos per side. On the other hand, the carrier is very stable and is supported by the rear dropout. This prevents unwanted vibrations in the rear triangle. For this reason, and because the transport load in panniers keeps the centre of gravity low, both handling and riding safety benefit.
Fit for field, forest and asphalt
During our ride tests, the E-Inception impressed us with its excellent riding comfort. The bike is very smooth and safe, especially off the beaten track. Even roots as thick as your arm and rough forest tracks don't upset the Stevens; the bike rolls over obstacles stoically and without any tendency to swerve. In addition to the full suspension, the 60 millimetre wide tyres specially developed for crossover bikes are particularly impressive. The pedelec steers directly and the Schwalbe tyres keep the pedelec perfectly on track. Despite the high weight, Bosch's most powerful motor variant accelerates the Stevens sufficiently well, even on rough surfaces. On tarmac, the crossover tourer is agile but - as expected - not really agile. On the other hand, it scores points for its excellent directional stability and outstanding ride comfort.
The Stevens has a great finish and offers some useful and well thought-out details. The cover for the charging socket in the frame knot is of high quality and closes reliably, cables and wires disappear into the head tube and run almost continuously through the frame. The Kiox colour display provides a wealth of information and is easy to read. Only the transport capacity on the carrier could be higher.
Test summary of the E-Inception TR 7.6.1 FEQ from Stevens
A comfortable touring pedelec with very good riding characteristics, even off-road. Other bikes are more suitable for travelling, especially due to the limited luggage load.
The price of the e-bike is 4,999 euros.
