FLYER has a long history in e-biking, but a relatively young line-up in the offroad segment. After all, it wasn’t until the E-MTB trend was well underway that FLYER decided – albeit expertly – to turn their hands to e-mountain bikes. Since last year, FLYER have launched three models onto the market, each managing to ace our test reviews. In this group test we put the top-of-the-range Uproc6 8.90 thoroughly through its paces in the hope of ascertaining whether it’s really worth splashing out on the expensive upgrades.
This review is part of our E-Mountain Bike Group Test 2016.
High-end products have always come in one colour: black. Therefore, it comes as no surprise to open the Uproc6 8.90’s box and see exactly this shade staring back at us. Priced at a steep € 7,799, it embodies the word ‘understatement.’ But there is a cheaper alternative, as the bike ‘starts at’ € 6,199 in a scaled-down (but still solidly specced) version.
When it comes to the Uproc6, the team at FLYER have come up trumps with simple yet ingenious technical details to achieve a good-handling package and agility, namely by fitting two differently sized wheels. With the larger 27.5″ at the front providing rollover prowess, grip, and stability to be steered easily, the more compact 26″ model at the rear serves up the agility. This combination means the bike gives a balanced ride, and thanks to the steep seat angle and powerful Bosch Performance CX motor, it can charge up sharp climbs with aplomb.
For those who like to set out for long rides without a second thought, we’d recommend splashing out on the 500 Wh battery for an extra € 200, as it will seriously broaden the distance you can cover. The exposed Nyon display (another € 200) isn’t worth the additional cash; it’s a bit like an automobile navigation system that’s touted as brand new, yet is already a relic.
Guaranteeing a grin on your face as you ride it, the Uproc6 features great geometry and a superb spec that includes potent brakes, a wisely set-up cockpit, robust wheels, and top-end, textbook-worthy suspension. The lush 160 mm of travel granted by the RockShox Pike filters away any trail chatter without the fork ever diving too far into its travel as you brake. The design of the rear keeps you and the bike in alignment, and the resulting ride is a great all-round package.
Details
Specification: Flyer Uproc 6 8.90
Fork: RockShox Pike Solo Air RCT3
Damper: RockShox Monarch Plus RT3
Motor: Bosch Performance CX Nyon
Battery: Bosch Power Pack 500
Brakes: Shimano Saint 200/180 mm
Drivetrain: Shimano XTR
Seatpost: RockShox Reverb Stealth
Stem: FRT Aheadvorbau
Handlebar: 760 mm
Tires: Schwalbe Hans Dampf 2,35
Wheels: DT Swiss EX 1501 Spline
Weight/Size: 21,98 kg / Größe M
Prize: € 7,799
Conclusion
FLYER is pushing the Uproc6 into the new season with virtually no changes – and for good reason, as the bike works brilliantly as it is. We’d love to see greater freedom when it comes to customizing this lovely bike, as – let’s face it – an expensive derailleur does little to make riding more fun, but steady, powerful brakes definitely help. At the moment, you have no choice but to shell out for an expensive upgrade if you do want those better brakes.
Strenghts:
- Incredible handling
- Superb manufacturing
- Great suspension
Weaknesses:
- Very expensive
- Few configuration options
Read all our reviews: Bergamont E-Line Trailster C 8.0 | CUBE Stereo Hybrid 140 SL | FLYER Uproc6 8.90 | Haibike SDURO AllMtn Pro | LAPIERRE Overvolt FS 900 | ROTWILD R.X+ FS 27,5″ EVO | SCOTT E-Genius 710 Plus | Specialized Turbo Levo FSR Expert 6Fattie | KTM Macina eGnition Cx5
More amazing bikes can be found in our E-Mountain Bike Group Test 2016.
Words & Photos: Christoph Bayer
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