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Verdict on the Steppenwolf Transterra Sport 9.0 test
Das Steppenwolf Transterra Sport überzeugt auf ganzer Linie. Ein vielseitiger und komfortabler Tourer, der auch noch mit wartungsarmem Riemen-Antrieb punkten kann. Bei Kleinigkeiten kann Steppenwolf zwar noch nachbessern, aber das Debut der wieder auferstandenen Marke ist gelungen. Der fest verbaute Akku und nur zwei Rahmengrößen schränken die Zielgruppe dennoch spürbar ein.
Data and facts about the Steppenwolf Transterra Sport 9.0
| Price | 5.199,00 € |
| Weight | 25.2 kg |
| Motor | Avinox M2S |
| Battery | Avinox 800Wh |
| Drivetrain | Enviolo Heavy Duty |
The long-established Steppenwolf brand is making a comeback with the Transterra Sport. The bike is also available in more modest versions with Shimano and Bosch motors. However, the Sport 9 with Avinox is particularly exciting, as it for around 5,000 euros aims to set new technical standards. Incidentally, if you prefer, the bike is also available with a derailleur for 700 euros less, or as a comfortable low-step model.
Unusual: both the model with the diamond frame and the low-step model feature a lightweight carbon chassis. On both models, however, the 800 Wh battery is permanently fitted inside the down tube and cannot be easily removed for charging – for a touring e-bike, that’s quite a bold decision.
The Avinox engine: Upgrade to the M2S
The Transterra Sport with Avinox was first unveiled at Eurobike 2025. At that time, of course, it was still fitted with the first-generation Avinox M1. When it comes to the motor, however, Steppenwolf is keeping up with the latest developments and is fitting The new Avinox M2S motor, delivering up to 150 Newton metres and 1,300 watts at peak, is already available. So to say it’s ‘packed with power’ is an understatement, and the new engine is even more responsive than its predecessor.
Looking at it critically, one could say that the more affordable Avinox M2 motor, with ‘only’ 125 Newton-metres and 1,100 watts of peak power, would certainly have done the job on the touring e-bike and might even have made the Transterra Sport a little more affordable. But anyone who, as an early adopter, is already buying a trekking bike with an Avinox motor might as well go for the best of the best. A typical Avinox feature is a touchscreen display on the top tube, which can also be used to track the bike’s location via an optional SIM card. When it comes to the battery, Steppenwolf isn’t taking any chances and has fitted the largest available battery at 800 watt-hours. However, you’ll have to do without the 12-amp fast charger, which charges the battery from 0 to 80 per cent in 90 minutes. The Transterra charges at the standard rate of 4 amps.
The spec: Enviolo and RockShox fork
To this end, Steppenwolf has equipped the bike not only with a high-quality carbon frame but also with a number of standout features. Gear changes are seamless thanks to the mechanical Enviolo hub. A Gates drive belt also makes the bike low-maintenance. The Shimano hydraulic brakes with four pistons at the front are simple yet reliable. The affordable yet easily adjustable suspension fork (Rockshox Judy Silver) and the Limotec seatpost with telescopic function round off the package.
This is what the Steppenwolf Transterra is like to drive
The Steppenwolf also performs well in practice. The riding position strikes a pleasant balance between active and comfortable. Steppenwolf has taken few risks with the geometry. As a result, the bike handles intuitively and effortlessly. The belt and the continuously variable Enviolo hub gear system These features further enhance comfort. Thanks to the belt drive and in-hub gear system, maintenance on the bike is largely unnecessary, and you can change gears using the in-hub gear system even when stationary. Steppenwolf also fits very wide tyres (55 millimetres) for a smooth ride. We were particularly impressed by the Limotec suspension seat post: it responds smoothly, which is often not the case with suspension seat posts featuring a telescopic function.
A lot of things done right
All in all, the Transterra performs really well and impresses both in everyday use (luggage rack with spring-loaded flap!) and on long tours, provided the permanently fitted battery isn’t an issue. There are a few minor criticisms, however: the high-pitched whirring of the motor was always present on the Steppenwolf. Many other Avinox bikes are quieter. The mudguards are also a bit narrow for the wide tyres, and the grips aren’t very comfortable. If you wish, you can easily upgrade the comfort with proper ergonomic grips and perhaps a slightly bent handlebar with minimal effort. Please note: There are only two frame sizes available. Very tall and very short riders won’t find what they’re looking for here.
The Steppenwolf Transterra Sport at a glance
Strengths:
- Sporty and comfortable
- A brilliant electric drive with lots of smart features
- Low-maintenance with in-hub gears and a belt drive
Weaknesses:
- Only two frame sizes
- Battery permanently fitted
- moderate grips