Top 10: The best E-MTBs of 2016
The E-MTB market is continuing to grow and there’s a constant influx of exciting new models. Alongside our giant 2016 group test as well as our entry-level E-MTB group test, we’re also stoked when it’s our turn to trial the hottest and most exclusive E-MTBs around. So for 2016, which ones deserve your full attention? Here’s our rundown of the top 10 E-MTBs for this season.
Haibike XDURO NDURO Pro
The Haibike XDURO NDURO Pro is a pioneer in the world of E-MTBs and completely threw us off balance when it first hit the market back in 2013. The current model is proof that it can still mix it with the best.
SCOTT e-Genius 710 Plus
Plus-size tires and E-MTBs are essentially the perfect bed partners and SCOTT have excelled by smoothly integrating these big bits of rubber into the e-Genius 710 Plus – deservedly winning the coveted top spot in our E-MTB 2016 group test.
Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 HPA 500 27.5+
Another bike profiting from the 2.8″ plus-size tires, the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 HPA 500 27.5+ draws out a ton of traction and stability from the rubbers. The whole package retails at a very fair € 4,800, which makes the Cube our serious price-point recommendation for the season.
Haibike XDURO Hardnine RX
We tend to keep a ‘healthy’ distance from hardtails but the sheer brilliance of the Haibike XDURO Hardnine RX means that it managed to bulldozer its way playfully into our Top 10. This Haibike left mellow mountain bike riders more than convinced by its great performance and tidy look.
Haibike XDURO DWNHLL
Brutal! Compared to the Haibike XDURO DWNHLL, every other E-MTB is child’s play. This bike pushes the limits of what was previously considered possible on descents and sets new standards.
Rotwild R.X+ FS 27.5 EVO
Integration is key for the team at Rotwild and the Rotwild R.X+ FS 27.5 EVO is testament to their dedication: unlike any other E-MTB, it’s the most cohesive concept and the series bike can hack it effortlessly on trails.
Mondraker E-Prime
€ 7,999 for a carbon E-MTB hardtail? Sounds like madness, but the Mondraker E-Prime completely knocked our socks off during testing. The carbon frame doesn’t just deliver intense comfort, but turns the E-Prime into the market’s most agile and lively bike around. We’ll be publishing an extensive test review shortly.
Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 Pro
Ok, E-MTBs are unlikely to be declared a bargain, but the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 Pro is proof of how much fun you can buy for just 3,499 €. In our group test of entry-level E-MTBs, the Cube deservedly rode away with both our test win and buyers’ tip accolades.
Specialized Turbo Levo FSR Expert 6Fattie
The Specialized Turbo Levo FSR Expert 6Fattie is the stealth bomber of the industry and doesn’t even feature a bike computer. The problems we encountered when testing the pre-production bike are now history and the Turbo Levo is undoubtedly one of the best E-MTBs on the market.
Flyer Uproc 6 8.90
Alongside trekking and urban bikes, the Swiss e-bike specialist Flyer also boasts a growing collection of E-MTBs, most notably the Flyer Uproc 6 8.90 with its great spec and outstanding suspension.
All the test reviews can be found on our E-MTB test platform.
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Words: Photos: Christoph Bayer, Noah Haxel
