Following the successful update of its Rift Zone aluminium trail bike, Marin Bikes is now launching an e-bike version on the market. We have already tested the non-motorised Marin Rift Zone XR and were impressed by its downhill capabilities. The new e-bike models from Marin go by the names Rift Zone E, Rift Zone E1 and Rift Zone E2 and cover the range from basic to mid-range to high-end. Marin promises an E-MTB that has the DNA of their trail bike. To keep this promise, work has been done on the frame geometry and suspension fork.
The suspension travel has been increased from 130 to 140 mm. All three new Rift Zone E models feature the tried-and-tested 4-MultiTrac aluminium frame. The two models E2 and E1 provide a boost with a battery capacity of up to 630 watt hours, but even the basic Rift Zone E model is already equipped with a 504 Wh battery - with the option of upgrading to a larger battery. The E2 and E1 models also come with CushCore inserts and tubeless tyres as standard.
The basic model Marin Rift Zone E
Marin promises a very good price-performance ratio for the basic model of its E-MTB series. For the suspension fork and shock, Marin has given the basic model a Rockshox 35 Silver suspension fork and an X-Fusion shock. The drive is a robust 10-speed Shimano Deore and the motor is the Shimano Steps EP6, which is available in the standard version with an output of 504 Wh - but can be optionally upgraded to 630 Wh. In terms of price, the model is available for just under 5,000 euros, which is favourable in comparison.
The middle price range: Marin Rift Zone E1
The Marin Rift Zone E1 sits in the mid-range and is priced at just under 5600 euros. Like the basic model, the frame is also a 4-Multi-Trac aluminium frame. However, in addition to the Rockshox Pike suspension fork and a Deluxe Select+ shock, the standard equipment includes a Shimano Deore 11-speed drivetrain and the larger 630 Wh battery. The new Shimano Steps EP6 motor is also fitted to the Rift Zone E1. Marin also adds the CushCore tyre inserts and a tubeless kit on top.
The high-end range with the Rift Zone E2
With the Marin Rift Zone E2, the Californians also offer - according to their own statements - a high-end E-MTB that is equipped with high-quality components. For just under 6900 euros, there is a Fox 36 Performance Elite suspension fork and a Fox Float X Performance Elite shock. In contrast to the E and E1 models, the E2 comes with a powerful Shimano Steps EP8 motor - also with a 630 Wh battery. The 11-speed drivetrain is equipped with Shimano XT components. The brakes are also a statement: Marin relies on the hydraulic TRP DH-R EVO with 4 pistons.
All three model variants of the new Marin Rift Zone E e-trail bike will be available from this May at the latest. Marin is keeping a low profile on the geometry - we will provide the values when they are available.
Details on the three variants of the Marin Rift Zone E
Marin Rift Zone E (Base)
- Frame: 4-MultiTrac frame, 140mm suspension travel
- Motor: Shimano STEPs EP6
- Power battery: 504 Wh
- Suspension fork: Rockshox 35 Silver fork, 140mm travel
- Shock: X-Fusion O2 Pro R shock with AV air sleeve
- Drivetrain: Shimano Deore 10-speed
- Brakes: TRP Slate EVO hydraulic disc brakes
- Tyres: Vee Tire Co. Attack HPL 29x2.5" tyres
- Price: 4999 Euro
Marin Rift Zone E1
- Frame: 4-MultiTrac frame, 140mm suspension travel
- Motor: Shimano STEPs EP6
- Battery: 630 Wh
- Suspension fork: Rockshox Pike with Motion Control damper
- Shock: Rockshox Deluxe Select+
- Drivetrain: Shimano Deore 11-speed
- Brakes: TRP Slate EVO hydraulic disc brakes
- Tyres: Vee Tire Co. Attack HPL 29x2.5" tyres
- Price: 5599 Euro
Marin Rift Zone E2
- Frame: 4-MultiTrac frame, 140mm suspension travel
- Motor: Shimano STEPs EP801
- Battery: 630 Wh
- Suspension fork: Fox 36 Performance Elite
- Shock: Fox Float X Performance Elite
- Drivetrain: Shimano XT 11-speed Linkglide
- Brakes: TRP DH-R EVO hydraulic 4-piston disc brake
- Tyres: Vee Tire Co. Attack HPL 29x2.5" tyres
- Price: 6899 Euro
