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Getting a bit dirty - yes, I'd love to. But big trail action - better not! Weak tyres and attachments for everyday use limit the off-road fun of most SUV models.
Contents:
What is an SUV bike?
SUVs are actually a somewhat strange type of car. Unsuitable for off-road driving, not very efficient on the road. Sure, you can turn off onto a dirt track and enjoy a few splashes of dirt on the metallic paintwork. But you should definitely avoid real off-road terrain with the Sport Utility Vehicle. And let's not kid ourselves: SUV bikes are called that because they have a lot in common with SUV cars. Nevertheless, the share of SUV bikes in the overall market is constantly growing.
This is not surprising, because the bottom line is that this bike category offers a very wide range of uses: as a commuter bike, as a touring bike and ultimately - if you choose the right model - also as a touring eMTB. Below we present some models that are equipped for at least easier off-road tests thanks to their geometries and chassis.
The fact that they still can't keep up with real E-MTBs is partly due to the compromise that most manufacturers make, especially when it comes to tyres, and partly due to the full equipment: pannier racks, mudguards, kickstands and StVZO-compliant lighting systems are permanently installed on SUV bikes and are not designed to be quickly removed. In everyday use, the road equipment is almost indispensable, off-road these parts are a nuisance - they can rattle, collect dirt and break.
Last but not least, the additional equipment increases the overall weight. You have to reckon with 27 to 29 kilos for an SUV bike, the lightest bikes in our model overview - the Cannondale and the Rotwild - manage around 25 kilos according to the manufacturer's specifications. This is quite respectable, but should not hide the fact that the limited suspension travel and the choice of tyres alone set limits to sporty off-road use.
What makes a good SUV bike?
Everyday equipment: mudguard, pannier rack & light
Pannier rack, mudguards, lighting system and side stand are standard on SUV models. The rear light integrated in the mudguard or luggage rack and its wiring is the main reason why the add-on parts cannot be easily removed.
Luggage racks are generally suitable for loads of 15 to 30 kilos, so heavy riders should take a look at the maximum permissible total weight of the e-bike.
In addition to a stable attachment, the space between the tyre and mudguard is also important: if it is too narrow, even a little damp foliage can block the gap. If there is enough space, you may even be able to switch to a wider, more heavily profiled tyre.
Chassis / geometry: less sporty in everyday use
The frame base often comes from the E-MTB sector, mostly from the tamer touring models, often with reduced suspension travel. This segment is therefore not overly sporty. In everyday use, a comfortable riding position is the most important factor - handlebars are often narrower and stems steeper. Special SUV models with mounting devices for mudguards are generally used as suspension forks.
Tyres: Grip & puncture protection often in short supply
Most manufacturers focus on everyday use. SUV tyre models such as Schwalbe's Johnny Watts or the Conti eRuban are optimised for smooth running and provide too little grip for more demanding terrain. Another frequently used type of tyre is MTB tyres that run smoothly. They lack puncture protection for bumpy trails.
Only very few manufacturers on the market use off-road tyres. In our model selection, the Flyer with the Schwalbe Nobby Nic and the Centurion with the Maxxis Dissector are the exceptions. Changing to grippier treads is impossible on many SUV models because there is too little space between the tyre and mudguard.
Attachments: Brakes, seat post, gears
Most manufacturers rely on robust four-piston brakes with large 203 mm brake discs. This makes sense simply because of the high vehicle and maximum permissible weights. It is pleasing to note that most models have telescopic stabilisers with a 150 mm stroke. These are not only helpful off-road, but also for everyday use. If you want to go on real mountain bike tours with steep climbs, you should also pay attention to a suitable climbing gear ratio. Ideal: 12-speed drivetrain with 34 chainring and 10-51 cassette.
Engine: the latest generation
When it comes to drive systems, manufacturers in the SUV class make no compromises. The latest engine models and batteries are installed. Only the price sets the limits here.
5 SUV bikes for moderate off-road fun, which we can recommend
Mudguards, pannier rack, lights - thanks to full equipment, SUV bikes are optimally equipped for everyday use. But we can also recommend these 5 models for moderate off-road fun recommend.
Cannondale Moterra Neo EQ
The Cannondale is not a city bike, but an SUV bike with sporty genes. The geometry has been taken from the E-MTB counterpart in the Cannondale range: With a 474 reach and 66-degree flat head angle, you can definitely tackle sporty trails. The spec would also fit: With 130 mm at the rear and 150 at the front, the Moterra is blessed with quite a lot of travel for this bike category, and with the Rockshox 35 Silver and Deluxe Select shock combo, there's no need to hide behind the bush. The four-piston brakes, the 12-speed climbing gear ratio (10-51 x 34) and the telescopic seat post also show that the bike is serious about off-road riding: You are serious about your off-road ambitions. However, given the low-profile Conti eRuban tyres, you shouldn't get too cocky. But the basis of the Moterra Neo fits: sporty geo, the latest Bosch drive, appropriate equipment, low overall weight. Price: 6199 euros >> available here.
Centurion Numinis R2700i EQ
At 28.2 kilos, the Centurion hits the golden mean in this small selection of models. The choice of tyres shows that the Numinis with the suffix EQ (equipped) is not just faking its off-road ambitions: The coarse-tread Maxxis Dissector tyres in a width of 2.4 inches are rarely seen in this bike category. The Tele post with a large adjustment range, powerful four-piston brakes and a sporty cockpit are a perfect match. The 140 mm of travel provided by the Fox AWL model is also more than enough for excursions on moderate trails. Compared to the Cannondale, the geometry is somewhat more conservative: The chainstays are very long at 475 millimetres and the steering angle is rather steep. The Centurion also features the latest generation Bosch. Price: 5799 euros.
Flyer Goroc X 6.70
Traditionally, the Swiss e-bike pioneers also rely on the Panasonic GX Ultimate alongside Bosch. With a torque of 95 Nm, the power unit is as strong as a bear. This is a good thing, because the Gorox X is one of the heavyweights. The fact that we still chose the bike is not least due to the tyres: Schwalbes Nobby Nic 2.4-inch tyres are worthy of an E-MTB and guarantee good grip even on difficult terrain. The frame of the Goroc X is based on the sporty Uproc X, but is designed for 140 mm travel. The geo is modern, with a long reach and flat steering angle, combined with a steep stem for more comfort in everyday use. Special feature: An additional 540 Wh battery is available for the Goroc X. With a total of 1290 Wh, the Goroc X 6.70 is predestined for longer tours in moderate terrain. The solid pannier rack can be loaded with 25 kilos, so there is enough storage space even for multi-day adventures. It is even approved for use with a trailer weighing up to a whopping 40 kilograms. A real rarity for an e-MTB. Price: 6999 euros >> available here.
Cube Stereo Hybrid 120 SLX 750 Allroad
At 4899 euros, the Cube is by far the cheapest bike in this SUV range. The Allroad Cube shares its frame base with the E-MTB models. Off-road genes are therefore present, although the chainstays are very bulky at 480 millimetres and the steering angle is quite steep at 67 degrees. On the other hand, the Cube SUV benefits from high-performance Fox suspension with a Float DPS damper and 34 mm Float fork (AWL version with mounting points for mudguards). Cube also demonstrates its MTB expertise with the off-road-relevant components: Shimano XT drivetrain, 12-speed drivetrain with climbing gear ratio, four-piston brakes, Newmen wheels and cockpit - it all fits. And with the Smart System, the Cube also has the latest arrangement from Bosch at the start. Only the Schwalbe Smart Sam tyres lack grip and puncture protection for a heavy E-MTB. Price: 4899 euros.
Rotwild R.T750 Tour
With the R.T750 Tour, E-MTB specialist Rotwild has launched an SUV bike that is not only stylish but also sporty. The elegant carbon chassis comes unmistakably from its full-blooded brother: the R.X750 all-mountain model, albeit with less suspension travel, an SUV-specific Fox fork and the corresponding components for everyday use. But at its core, the R.T750 is a true E-MTB. The geo is modern, with a slack head angle, long reach and moderate chainstays. The equipment is exquisite across the board: brakes from TRP, cranks from eThirteen, dropper post from Crank Brothers, saddle and grips from Ergon - it's anything but standardised. The XT shifting components from Shimano stand out as ordinary. At 24.5 kilos, the Rotwild is a real lightweight among SUV bikes. Schwalbe's cross-country tyres offer more traction than the pure SUV tyres, but limit trail use. Those who also ride difficult terrain need coarser lugs. Price: 7499 euros.
Converting the E-MTB to an SUV e-bike - the better choice for everyday use?
E-MTBs are also popular for everyday use. You can buy an SUV bike with full equipment as standard or convert a classic e-MTB with luggage racks, lights and mudguards from the aftermarket. How much does the compromise between trail and everyday use limit the off-road capability of SUV bikes? And is a conventional e-MTB, upgraded with special parts for everyday use, perhaps the better and more flexible option? We put it to the test.
Josh Welz
Editor-in-Chief
