Haibike Lyke SE in the Light-E-MTB test: Trail speedster - balanced & lively

At 140 millimetres, the Haibike Lyke is the light e-MTB with the shortest suspension travel in the test. It also has the second-lightest wheels. This makes the bike a light-footed trail speedster despite its length.

However, Haibike's latest addition can do more than just accelerate out of bends in a sprint. The handling is balanced and defined. Instead of wagging its tail nervously, the bike from Schweinfurt follows the targeted line with determination and precision.

Lively and manoeuvrable: yes. However, the Haibike Lyke is not particularly playful. Jumping off roots or pulling the bike into the manual requires a little more effort than some of the other candidates in our big comparison test of eight of the most exciting light E-MTBs on the market.

We liked the rear suspension on the Haibike Lyke best when it was tuned a little softer than the usual 30 per cent SAG. Then it generates a lot of traction and feels plush. A fork with 150 millimetres of travel would suit these qualities even better. The modern and long, but by no means extreme geometry gives the Lyke a very smooth and stable ride.

Moderate profile, good climbing characteristics: how the Lyke performs on the trail

On rough descents, the light but moderately grippy Dissector tyres from Maxxis with a thin EXO carcass are the first limiting factor. The neutral steering and good-natured handling also predestine the Haibike as a sporty tourer. This also applies to the efficient and powerful Fazua motorwhich is even quieter in the Haibike than in the competitor bike, the Focus Jam² SL.

The climbing characteristics are also strong. In addition to the powerful drive, the geometry also allows extreme climbing sections. Here, the Lyke is one of the best in the comparison. Our test bike did not quite match the standard equipment, the original is even a little lighter. Too bad: Rattling cables in the frame spoil the calmness on the descent.

EMTB Conclusion on the Haibike Lyke SE light e-MTB:

The Haibike Lyke SE light eMTB is one of the most balanced bikes in the 2023 test, with a sporty, lively character that suits the Fazua motor. Although there are more playful bikes than the Lyke, it convinces on tours and trails, uphill and downhill, and thus secures many points. Changing the battery is a little fiddly.

Technical data and notes Haibike Lyke SE

Manufacturer information

• Price: 10999 Euro
• Sizes / frame material: S / M / L (tested size) / XL / Carbon

Measured values²

• Reach altitude¹: 1423 (+0)hm
• Weight²: 18.7 kg
• Average speed: 13.2 km/h
• Centre of gravity height: 518 mm
• Handlebar width: 760 mm
• Crank length / Q-factor: 170 mm / 182 mm
• Ground clearance⁴: 503 mm

Equipment

• Motor: Fazua Ride 60
• Max. Torque³: 60 Nm
• Battery³ / weight² / price Replacement battery: Fazua Energy, 430 Wh / 2255 g / 790 Euro
• Gear system: Shimano XTR/XT (12-speed)
• Translation (v. / h.): 32; 10-51
• Display: LED hub, no display
• Permissible total weight³: 120 kg
• Fork / shock: Fox 36 Factory Grip2 / Float X Factory
• Front/rear suspension travel: 40 / 140 mm
• Telescopic seatpost: Trans X Dropper, 150 mm
• Brake / Disc Ø (front / rear): Shimano XTR 9120 / 203 mm / 203 mm
• Wheels: Mavic Crossmax XL R Carbon
• Tyres (front / rear): Maxxis Dissector EXO MaxxTerra, 29 x 2.4''

EMTB test rating⁵: 8.4 points - very 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.