Until now, the Bavarian sporting goods manufacturer M1 has always had a clear line when it comes to e-mountainbikes: the main thing is full carbon fibre and the main thing is plenty of power. With its extravagant e-bikes, M1 has already created one or two eye-catchers. Now a new light e-MTB is in the starting blocks. With the models featuring Bosch's SX light motor, M1 is entering the market for lightweight e-mountainbikes. Perhaps a break with the previous power bikes with Brose or even HPR120 motors from TQ, but still a typical M1: sturdy tyres, a brute look and, with up to 600 watts for short periods, plenty of power. At least for a light e-MTB.
The facts about the M1 400 SX models
- Motor: Bosch Performance SX (40 Nm / 400 watts continuous load, briefly up to 55 Nm / 600 watts)
- Battery: Bosch 400 watt hours, classic removable
- Suspension travel: 150 - 170 mm
- Wheel size: MX, 29 / 27.5 inch
- Full carbon frame
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL
- From 17.5 kilos (manufacturer's specification)
- 5 models between 6500 and 15,000 euros
Full carbon frame and removable battery
Common to all Light-E-MTBs is the new full carbon frame, which M1 has designed around Bosch's SX drive and the 400 watt-hour battery integrated in the down tube. Typical for M1: The shock is integrated into the partially open top tube and is only articulated by a minimalist rocker. To ensure that the bikes also perform in everyday use, M1 relies on a kickstand mount in the left-hand chainstay, the battery is secured with a key and can be folded forwards out of the down tube in the classic manner. This is a real rarity among light e-MTBs.
Commuting, all-mountain bike or enduro? The M1 models and geometries at a glance
With the new Bosch SX motor, M1 is launching an entire model range. Whether exorbitantly expensive or still reasonably affordable, full-throttle enduro or commuter bike: the new chassis should cover all areas of use.
For tour and trail: the all-rounder
It starts with the trail all-rounder M1 CC.400.SX.P from 6500 euros. With 140 millimetres of travel, the bike should impress as a sporty, fast bike for moderate terrain. The equipment is very decent considering the carbon frame at this price. The front suspension is a Fox 34 Performance, the rear a Float DPS, plus an XT twelve-speed from Shimano and wheels from DT Swiss.
Those who prefer difficult terrain, on the other hand, can opt for the M1 AM.400.SX.P from 7650 euros. Here you get 160 millimetres of suspension travel, Fox's thick 38 mm fork in combination with a Float X damper, DT wheels and powerful MT7 brakes from Magura. Both bikes should weigh around 20 kilograms.
Fancy a little more? The Enduro
In terms of equipment and downhill performance, the M1 EN.400.SX.P goes one better for 9900 euros. The equipment highlight here is the Fox Factory suspension with Float X shock and 38 mm fork, albeit only with the Fit4 cartridge. Thick Eddy Current tyres are heavy, but offer good puncture protection, just like the AM model. Shifting is with Shimano XTR, braking with Magura MT7. We have already tested this bike and will be reporting more shortly.
Tuned ex works: the World Cup
The top model in the range, the M1 WorldCup.400.SX.P, costs a whopping € 15,000. The price is likely to be driven up by the elegant full carbon wheels from Bike Ahead, but M1 also treats itself to numerous carbon components and high-end parts from Shimano's XTR and Fox's Factory Regal, which should reduce the weight to 17.5 kilograms.
Noble commuter: M1 400 SX with full equipment
The M1 is also available as the GT.400.SX.P with full equipment for 8150 euros. The pannier rack and mudguards are practical for everyday use and, as with some other models, the lighting system is included ex works. With Fox performance suspension, XT twelve-speed and MT7 brakes, the GT model also has plenty of off-road terrain on the menu - at least if you leave the panniers at home for trail excursions.
Adrian Kaether
Editor
