We all know the advantages of the powerful Bosch Performance CX motor, but we also know the disadvantages: The size and, until not too long ago, the integration. Bosch solved the latter problem with the Powertube battery. However, the e-mountainbike motor itself is still very large and prevents an extremely playful geometry. Cannondale turns the drive in the new Cannondale Moterra Neo by a few degrees to create more installation space. The result is impressive: The chainstays of the 27.5-inch bike measure 457 millimetres. Although this does not come close to the best values of Rocky and Co, it is certainly impressive. The rest of the geometry is moderate: 454 mm reach in frame size L and a 67.8 degree head angle are the average for moderate trail bikes.
The suspension of the Moterra is also designed for trail use: A 140 mm fork works at the front, while the rear suspension squeezes 130 millimetres out of the shock. All three models have 2.6-inch wide 27.5-inch tyres and a Vario seat post. All Moterra models are equipped with 160 mm short cranks for sufficient ground clearance. The details also sound well thought out: there is space for a bottle cage on the down tube and an aluminium plate protects the motor from damage in the event of a collision. Also good: If you want to connect a light, you can do so easily: The necessary cables are already laid.
Three models are available for further development of the Cannondale Moterra presented in 2016 to choose from. The entry-level model is the 4199 euro Neo 3 with Rock Shox Recon suspension fork and Shimano Deore gears. If you invest 800 euros more, the Moterra Neo 2 comes with a Rock Shox Revelation fork and a Sram NX 12-speed drivetrain. The top model of the Moterra Neo, which costs 5799 euros, has a Pike suspension fork and powerful Sram Guide RE brakes. Here you shift through the twelve gears with a GX-NX mix from Sram.
