The Bulls Sonic EVO EN-SL2 with Shimano EP 8 weighs just 22.1 kilos - and that's with a large 750 watt-hour battery! This puts it halfway between the power eMTBs in the test group with an average weight of 25.1 kilograms and our light comparison bike, the Specialized Kenevo SL, which only weighs 19 kilograms.
You can find an overview of all 7 E-Enduro bikes tested here. In it, we discuss in detail, among other things, the Motorswhich Reach heights and the question of whether a Light E-MTB or a classic E-Enduro is the better choice.
This is made possible by the super-lightweight full carbon frame of the Bulls Sonic EVO, a battery with a high capacity-to-weight ratio and a battery mount that prioritises low weight over smooth handling. The tool-free removal is a little awkward, and unfortunately the battery creaks and rattles a lot. On the trail, however, the weight is a positive factor.
In terms of liveliness and light-footed handling, the Bulls Sonic EVO EN-SL is in a league of its own in this test. It takes the targeted line with determination and precision and scurries from one bend to the next. It is also easy to get airborne and pull onto the rear wheel.
When rocks and roots line the trail, the shorter stroke and tamer geometry are noticeable. Here it doesn't quite have the full enduro character of the best in the test. However, experienced riders can also handle the bike well in rough terrain.
The Bulls Sonic EVO has nothing to criticise on the climbs either. With a central riding position, you always stay in control and steer precisely, the front wheel climbs late and the traction is excellent. Only the slightly weaker Shimano motor slightly spoils the uphill flow on steep sections. Good equipment, fair price.
Test summary of the Bulls Sonic EVO EN-SL 2 Carbon
Lively, precise, light: The Bulls EVO EN-SL is a fun trail tool for e-bikers with top handling and an impressive range-to-weight ratio. The downside: noticeable battery rattling.
Technical data and evaluation of the Bulls Sonic EVO EN-SL 2 Carbon
General information
- Price: 6999 Euro
- Further information at Bulls
Drive
- Motor: Shimano EP8
- Max. Torque³: 85 Nm
- Battery³ / weight² / price Replacement battery: Sonic V10, 750 Wh / 3597 g / n.a.
- Gear system: Shimano XT (12-speed)
- Translation (v. / h.): 34; 10-51
- Display / Size: SC-EM800 / 21 x 38 mm
PLUSComparatively light and compact; harmonious ride feel
MINUS: Moderate power; not very lively power delivery; rattling noises
Measured values
- Reach altitude¹: 1756 (+22) hm
- Average speed: 14.4 km/h
- Sizes / frame material: M / L (tested size) / XL / Carbon
- Weight²: 22.1 kg
- Centre of gravity height: 535 mm
- Handlebar width: 780 mm
- Crank length / Q-factor: 165 mm / 182 mm
- Ground clearance⁵: 497 mm
Equipment
- Permissible total weight³: 130 kg
- Fork / Shock: Rockshox Lyrik Ultimate / Super Deluxe Select+
- Suspension travel (f. / h.): 160 mm / 150 mm
- Telescopic post: Eightpins H01, 175 mm
- Brake / Disc Ø (front / rear): Shimano XT 8120 / 203 mm / 203 mm
- Wheels: DT Swiss H 1900 Spline Hybrid
- Tyres (f. / h.): Schwalbe Magic Mary ST Soft / Big Betty ST Soft, 29 x 2.4"
EMTB test verdict on the Bulls Sonic EVO: very good - 8.6 points
¹ The reach height was determined during standardised test rides on an asphalt climb with a gradient of 12.2 percent. Highest support level, 150 watts pedalling power of the rider, rider weight incl. equipment 90 kg. The altitude metres in clearly reduced emergency mode are shown in brackets. The average speed refers to the journey with full assistance.
² Determined on the test stands in the EMTB test laboratory, weight without pedals. Battery weight incl. screwed-on cover where applicable.
³ Manufacturer's specification
⁴ The judgement reflects the subjective impression of the testers and the results of the reach measurement and laboratory tests. The EMTB judgement is independent of price. EMTB judgements: super (from 9.0), very good (from 8.0), good (from 7.0), satisfactory (from 6.0), with weaknesses (from 5.0), below insufficient.
⁵ Measured with 36 centimetre raised rear wheel (step).
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
