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Lightweight e-MTBs, especially lightweight e-enduro bikes, have one thing in common. They are often really expensive. This is the only way manufacturers like Specialised, Trek or Simplon Despite thick suspension elements and tyres, the record weights that characterise this type of bike can be achieved. But what happens when more attractively priced manufacturers like Conway try their hand at the light enduro? At 6499.95 euros, the entry-level model Ryvon LT 4.0 is not exactly cheap, but it won't lead you straight to personal bankruptcy. On the other hand, at 20.7 kilos, is it still light at all? And what compromises do you have to make in practice?
The facts about the Conway Ryvon LT 4.0
- Price: 6499,95 Euro >> available here
- Motor: Bosch SX, 55 Nm max. torque
- Battery: 400 Wh (removable)
- Frame material: Carbon
- Suspension travel: 170/170 mm
- Wheel size: 29/27.5 inch (Mullet)
- Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Weight: 20.7 kg (test bike in size L, EMTB measurement)
- Permissible total weight: 140 kg (manufacturer's specification)
The Conway Ryvon was already an old acquaintance in the EMTB tests. Already last autumn we were impressed by the top model Ryvon LT 10.0 with its mix of low weight and strong riding characteristics. So much so that we immediately arrested the bike for an endurance test. And In the last Light test, we rode the affordable All Mountain Ryvon ST 4.0 for the test victory. Here is the entry-level version of the enduro bike. The Ryvon LT 4.0 shares its extreme geometry with its siblings. The approach of omitting the charging port on the SX motor for weight reasons can also be called uncompromising. On the other hand, the battery on the Conway can be removed from the bike quickly and without tools - not a matter of course for light eMTBs. In terms of equipment, Conway invests primarily in the lightweight carbon frame and Fox suspension as well as in grippy tyres. The NX drivetrain and Sun Ringlé wheels are rather inexpensive.
Bosch Performance Line SX motor: rotary organ
Under the motors (here is the big test overview)the lightweight Bosch Performance Line SX in the Conway is clearly a specialist. For short intermediate sprints, the motor almost delivers the power of a large 85 Newton metre unit, but then of course drains the battery accordingly. However, the torque at the bottom and therefore the power at low cadence is meagre. In addition, the motor heats up quickly at full throttle and then noticeably reduces performance. In our range tests, this effect was already noticeable after 10 minutes under full load - even at moderate outside temperatures of around 20 degrees.
On the other hand, the small Bosch impresses with a great ride feel. It is super sensitive to the foot and responds sensitively, while the extended boost in E-MTB mode helps on some steep climbs. Radical: Conway has not installed a charging port on the Ryvon. This makes the chassis somewhat lighter and less complex. The battery can be easily removed from the bike. Open the flap and release the battery at the touch of a button, then the battery can be removed from the down tube. This is particularly important, as the battery has to be removed for charging every time. Incidentally, the Conway does not have a real display. However, the system controller on the top tube shows the cadence and battery status in 10 per cent increments via coloured LEDs.
The geometry of the Conway Ryvon
The super slack steering angle in particular shows the sporty design of the Conway Ryvon LT 4.0, where you have to actively put pressure on the front! The remaining values are rather moderate, but the wheelbase is still long due to the flat front. This ensures a smooth ride, but makes the bike a little bulkier in slow and narrow sections.
EMTB measurements at a glance (frame size L)
- Seat tube length: 433 mm
- Wheelbase: 1285 mm
- Reach: 475 mm
- Stack: 645 mm
- Steering angle: 63.2 degrees
- Seat angle: 77 degrees
- Chainstay length: 444 mm
The features of the Conway Ryvon LT 4.0
Since a lot of money is spent on the full carbon chassis, Conway has to cut back on the equipment. However, the product managers show a good hand here. They have invested in top tyres from Schwalbe and good Fox suspension. The wheels and drivetrain are rather simple and heavy. Grips from SQ Lab and an ergonomic saddle from Fizik are nice details.
- Fork / shock: Fox 36 Rhythm / Float X2 Performance
- Gear system: Sram NX Eagle
- Brakes: TRP Slate Evo, 220/203 mm
- Wheels: Sun Ringlé Düroc SD 37
- Tyres: Schwalbe Magic Mary Ultrasoft, Big Betty Supergravity
- Special features: Quick battery removal, no charging port
Practical test: How the Conway E-Enduro Ryvon LT 4.0 rides
Uphill you sit balanced on the Conway. The steep seat angle strikes a good balance between compact and stretched. If the climbs get demanding, the Ryvon LT 4.0 is still not easy to control. The SX motor needs to be kept constantly revving, even in key sections, otherwise it lacks power. However, the front end of the Conway is noticeably light even with little torque from the motor and the slack steering angle drops significantly at slow speeds. On flowing trails, the dynamic and torquey drive is a lot of fun to ride and allows the Conway to accelerate casually out of tight corners on the rear wheel. The range is average for light bikes. However, on tours with significantly more than 1000 metres of elevation gain, you will need to plan for a second battery (quickly replaceable) or a lengthy charging stop.
Light even with over 20 kilos?
The crucial question for us: Can a light bike weighing over 20 kilograms still have the handling advantage for which this type of bike was created? The Conway provides the answer within the first few metres. It is easy to pull into the bunny hop or manual. On flow trails and flat stretches, the Ryvon is noticeably lively and light-footed. Even if the slack steering angle and generous wheelbase certainly don't make it feel manoeuvrable. The extreme geometry is particularly noticeable in tight corners, where the Conway wants to be steered with vigour and conveys little passive riding confidence. On fast tracks, however, the Ryvon is in its element. The only criticism is that the well-tuned rear suspension clearly overshadows the simple Rhythm fork. Nevertheless, if you want to leave it on the straight line downhill, you've come to the right place. Only the loud rattling tarnishes the otherwise successful overall impression.
EMTB review of the Conway Ryvon LT 4.0
Strengths
- Noticeably light and light-footed
- well-tuned rear triangle, high suspension qualities
- Harmoniously selected equipment
Weaknesses
- Challenging handling
- Rattles clearly downhill
The BIKE conclusion
Even the most affordable version of the Conway Ryvon LT 4.0 is a sporty E-Enduro with a racy touch. The slack steering angle and modern geometry require an experienced rider. But then the e-bike offers plenty of high-speed potential and riding fun. Unfortunately a little noisy on the downhill.
Adrian Kaether
Editor
