BH Bikes iLynx Trail light e-MTB test: Potent e-touring bike with light motor

The noise level of BH's in-house light motor is pleasant, the 2EXMAG is only slightly louder than the Ride 60 from Fazua. Unfortunately, the motor rattles like Shimano's EP8 on the descents.

The second special feature of the BH iLynx Trail: the permanently integrated battery is large by light standards at 540 watt hours. The 8.9 model also comes with an additional 180 Wh battery. With a total of 720 watt hours, the bike delivers the longest range in the test. Great for long off-road tours. And this is exactly where we see the bike's strengths. It can be controlled neutrally and does not shy away from challenging sections. However, the iLynx is not a real trail rocket. The conservative geometry places the rider on the bike rather than in it. The handling in corners is not as intuitive and balanced as that of the competition. On rough terrain, the short frame only generates a moderately smooth ride.

The suspension works well, but lacks a little liveliness. Despite its manoeuvrable geometry, the e-bike is not a nimble trail predator. The BH iLynx Trail is easy to ride uphill, but the moderate motor power limits its climbing power on steep ramps. The equipment is strong. The Fox Factory suspension is garnished with carbon cranks and handlebars, plus an XTR drivetrain. Hardly anything is left to be desired. And this despite the fact that the iLynx is one of the cheaper candidates in the test. Top: high weight clearance!

Conclusion on the BH Bikes iLynx Trail Carbon Pro 8.9:

The BH iLynx Trail Carbon is a powerful touring bike with plenty of battery capacity and top features at a fair price. The motor delivers minimalist and quiet power. However, the bike lags behind the best in comparison on trail rides.

Technical data and grades BH Bikes iLynx Trail Carbon Pro 8.9

Manufacturer information

• Price: 9099 Euro
• Sizes / frame material: S / M / L (tested size) / XL / Carbon

Measured values²

• Reach altitude¹: 1338 (+285)hm
• Weight²: 19.6 kg
• Average speed: 12.9 km/h
• Centre of gravity height: 535 mm
• Handlebar width: 780 mm
• Crank length / Q-factor: 165 mm / 188 mm
• Ground clearance⁴: 501 mm

Equipment

• Motor: BH 2EXMAG II
• Max. Torque³: 60 Nm
• Battery³ / weight² / range extender: 540 Wh permanently integrated / - / 180 Wh / 984 g
• Gear system: Shimano XTR (12-speed)
• Translation (v. / h.): 34; 10-51
• Display: BH iRemote / no display
• Permissible total weight³: 165 kg
• Fork / shock: Fox 36 Factory Fit4 / Float X Factory
• Front/rear suspension travel: 150/150 mm
• Telescopic seatpost: Fox Transfer Fact. 175 mm
• Brake / Disc Ø (front / rear): Shimano XT 8120 / 203 mm / 203 mm
• Wheels: Raceface Turbine 30 TR
• Tyres (front / rear): Maxxis Minion DHF / Highroller II EXO, 29 x 2.4''

EMTB test rating⁵: 7.7 points - good

¹ The values were determined during standardised rides on an asphalt climb with an average gradient of 8.4 percent. Rider pedalling power 175 watts, rider weight incl. equipment 90 kg. The assistance level was adjusted for this comparison test so that all bikes travelled at approximately the same speed, see average speed in brackets. The motor output was around 250 watts. The altitude metres in brackets are in significantly reduced emergency mode. All details about our range test can be found here in the link!

² Determined on the test benches in the EMTB test laboratory, weight without pedals. Battery weight incl. screwed-on cover where applicable.

³ Manufacturer's specification

⁴ Step test, measured with 36 centimetre raised rear wheel

⁵ 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.