Issue #010 Review

E-downhill bikes Review: Haibike XDURO Dwnhll 9.0 vs. Rotwild R.G+ FS

16.06.2017
by Robin Schmitt

ROTWILD R.G+ FS

Rotwild R.G+ | 23.42 kg | € 8,999

The ROTWILD R.G+ sets the bar higher than the Haibike when it comes to its love for details, approach to integration and overall aesthetics. Its aggressive geometry and supremely well-considered spec lends the ROTWILD a formula that can win over anyone that wants to tear down this downhill track. The 200 mm air-sprung suspension from FOX is the same as the Haibike set-up, and delivers an equally great performance. The same applies to the consistent and sturdy Shimano Saint brakes and the Continental Kaiser Projekt tires, which seem much more voluminous with their 2.4″ width than those MAXXIS tire models on the Haibike. They’ve got more inherent dampening, and generate ample traction and confidence for the rider. Given the fairly low cockpit, there’s a lot of pressure over the front, which is an advantage when cornering. On really steep gradients, it’d be good to have more rise on the bars to increase your control. On the whole, the ROTWILD has a really balanced handling package and razor-sharp steering. There are adjustable dropouts for changing the length of the chainstays, and therefore the balance on the bike.

ROTWILD have taken a unique approach to the motor and battery, seeing the carbon downtube host the Integrated Power Unit (518 Wh battery). It’s an oversight that the battery can’t be switched while out on a ride, resulting in limited range and therefore a limited number of downhill runs. The downtube can be detached in the event of servicing or issues. The cooling fins on the motor’s cover are not only visually a nice touch but also work to dissipate the heat. While compact, the bar-mounted remote control with integrated display reveals readable information, but it doesn’t always respond directly to shift the modes when you press it.

The components on the Rotwild R.G+ FS

Fork FOX 40 Float Factory 200 mm
Shock FOX Float X2 Factory 200 mm
Motor / Battery Brose / 518 Wh
Brakes Shimano Saint
Drivetrain Shimano Saint
Seatpost Kind Shock LEV INTEGRA
Stem PRO Tharsis
Handlebar PRO Tharsis
Tires Continental Der Kaiser Projekt
Wheels DT Swiss FR 1950
More Info rotwild.com

UnrulyNice and compact, the display lends the bike a clean look but it proved unresponsive on repeat occasions while riding and it took numerous attempts to change the level of support.
LimitedBoth bikes have a limited gear range which limits their battery capacity. We’d recommend a bigger cassette and rear mech, but it might lead to a more raucous chain on descents.
Keep CoolThe cooling fins on the motor’s cover are an intelligent way to dissipate the heat and increase the range.
VariableThere’s a flipchip on the Rotwild G+ that adjusts the length of the chainstays. We’d suggest the shorter setting for more playful handling, while the longer setting will add smoothness on more challenging tracks.
The geometry of the Rotwild R.G+
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Inhaltsübersicht
  1. E-Downhill Bikes Review
  2. Haibike XDURO Dwnhll 9.0
  3. ROTWILD R.G+ FS
  4. Which is the best E-Downhiller?

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About the author

Robin Schmitt

Robin is one of the two founders of 41 Publishing, a visionary and go-getter. While he now enjoys every second on the bike – whenever his busy schedule allows – he used to race against the clock at enduro events and a few Downhill World Cups. Besides that, Robin practises kung fu and Zen meditation, plays the cello or with his dog (which actually belongs to his girlfriend), travels abroad and still reviews numerous bikes himself. Progressive ideas, new projects and major challenges – Robin loves exploring undiscovered potential and getting to the bottom of new trends.