Not too long along we were putty in the hands of the top-of-the-range Bergamont E-Line Contrail model, so we were stoked to get our hands on the line’s more affordable bike to see how it would fare in this group test. Read on.
This bike is part of our Group Test: Four entry-level E-MTBs under € 3,499.
For the 2016 season, Bergamont are offering the E-Line Contrail with two spec options: the more expensive model offers riders the option to upgrade from a Bosch Intuvia to a Bosch Nyon display, while the more affordable model comes with the option to boost your battery from 400 Wh to 500 Wh (for an upcharge). The Contrail 6.0 features a powerful Bosch Performance CX motor and a mix of Shimano SLX/XT parts that deliver precise shifting.
The riding position is comfortable and defined by the long 614 mm top tube and steep 73.5° seat angle. As the rider it’s a leisurely, stretched-out central position so you can exert decent force onto the pedals. Despite the skinny 2.25″ Schwalbe Nobby Nic tyres, the 29″ wheels deliver a ton of traction on climbs and the bike feels nice and smooth – although expect to wrestle a little around tight corners to keep it on your line choice. The 120 mm travel at front and rear come courtesy of Manitou, with a Marvel Comp fork and a McLeod rear shock. In our eyes, this suspension underlines the mellower trail riding aspirations of this Contrail. The fork and shock are solid performers, but only adequate when it comes to filtering away hard and fast hits – the rider has to take the rest of the strain. The wallet-friendly Shimano brakes deliver decent braking performance, but heavier riders would benefit from a 200 mm rotor at the front.
Details
Specs of the Bergamont E-Line Contrail 6.0 400
Fork: Manitou Marvel Comp 29″ 120 mm
Shock: Manitou MCLEOD
Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX
Battery: Bosch Power Pack 400
Brakes: Shimano Deore
Drivetrain: Shimano XT/SLX
Seatpost: BGM Pro
Stem: BGM Pro 80 mm
Bar: BGM Pro 730 mm
Tyres: Schwalbe Nobby Nic 2.25″
Wheels: Hubs: BGM Pro / Rims: Sun Ringle SR25
Weight/Size: 21.48 kg / Size M
Price: € 3,499
Conclusion
The Bergamont E-Line Contrail 6.0 400 would make a great trail mate for those heading out on long rides on mellow trails and fire roads. Given its smooth nature, comfy riding position, and the great roll-over characteristics of the 29” wheels, it’s worth considering. However, the cut-price suspension doesn’t quite match the performance of the more expensive model on technical terrain.
Strenghts:
- Comfy riding position
- Great for long rides
Weaknesses:
- Inadequate suspension
- Overly narrow tyres
For more information visit the Bergamont Website
[/emaillocker]This bike is part of our Group Test: Four entry-level E-MTBs under € 3,499.
Don’t miss the other reviews of this group test: CUBE Stereo Hybrid 140 Pro | Giant Full-E+ 2 | KTM MACINA Lycan 27.5 10 CX4 10S SLX
Words & Photos: Christoph Bayer
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