Head-to-head, which is the best E-Downhiller?
E-Downhillers have a huge scope for usage, as neither their weight nor range nor uphill abilities are that different to E-MTBs with less suspension. The two models both have strengths and weaknesses, some of which can be alleviated easily, and some are set in stone with the bike’s design. E-Downhillers have the potential to replace your need for lifts in bike parks, and present an opportunity to expand your horizons and the distance you’ll cover that day. Yet the elusive answer to the question of which bike is better is severely dependent on what sort of a rider and what sort of usage we’re talking about.
Do E-Downhillers need a specific motor?
Compared to the Bosch motor on the Haibike, ROTWILD’s Brose motor is far more natural and quieter. The Brose model also has no power loss while pedaling above 25 km/h – although this is less significant on an E-Downhiller. You’ll rarely climb quicker than 25 km/h, you can cruise along the flat and then rely more on the brakes than any pedaling power when you’re on a downhill track like in Bad Wildbad. Given the burlier nature of an E-Downhiller, you’re also more likely to ride with the highest level of pedal-assist. This is where the Haibike shines with its higher power output. If you’re thinking of tackling steeper climbs, both bikes will need bigger cassettes – going from their stock 36t to a far bigger 46t model (and you’ll have to change the rear mech too). This upsize should prevent the bike from stalling if you’re under-geared, and also allow you to stay within a broader optimal efficiency zone with a higher cadence and therefore save battery.
The 500 Wh Bosch battery on the Haibike is easily removed, while the ROTWILD’s 518 Wh battery is fixed inside the carbon downtube. Visually and technologically, this is the epitome of stylish integration but even by midday we were perplexed: what use is having the best handling if you’ve got to call it a day after four downhill runs? We hadn’t even had lunch, and it was still too early for a beer (11am!). You can’t eat your downhill kebab that slow as the ROTWILD is charging.
Our thoughts on the E-Downhillers
The ROTWILD R.G+ is superior in terms of its sorted spec, how it handles on the trails and its overall design. We’d suggest this € 8,999 fireball is more attuned to experienced riders given its low front end and aggressive geometry. If you can overlook its limited battery capacity, you’ll certainly rate its downhilling credentials. The spec is really well considered and shows a lot of love for details. With its low bottom bracket region, the ROTWILD R.G+ isn’t ideal for inexperienced riders, as it could easily cause harm on pedaling sections if you’re not concentrating – shorter cranks could be one solution.
Haibike haven’t maxed out the potential with their spec, and a few key changes would lead to more confidence on the descents. The increased ground clearance afforded by the high bottom bracket and ability to rapidly change the battery are key assets, especially for those who enjoy long rides and those bike park enthusiasts who won’t be content with the range provided by one fully charged battery . On quick, less twisty downhills, the ROTWILD performs faultlessly. However, there’s limited space for you to throw your body around the bike as the saddle won’t fully drop into the short seat tube and the saddle itself sticks out too far over the frame.
So which E-Downhiller has come out on top? It’s an incredibly hard decision but we were unanimous: neither! They’ve got such distinctive approaches that it all comes down to individual taste – in short, we reckon both bikes are made for a seriously good time!
Text: Robin Schmitt Fotos: Christoph Bayer Video: Maximillian Eckmann
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