Exclusive | Haibike presents the XDURO3 collection for 2016
Dubbing it the “next big thing”, Haibike’s brand new XDURO 3 generation range boasts more than 12 models. We headed to the launch in Schweinfurth to discover the most exciting developments around these new bikes.
A pioneer within the ePerformance industry, Haibike invited more than 500 dealers from at least 9 different countries to the exclusive launch of the third XDURO Generation at the presentation in Schweinfurth. After four extraordinarily successful years in the E-MTB world, last year’s introduction of the SDURO models, and the launch of the new generation of motors from Bosch, the Bosch Performance CX range, these new XDURO models represent a genuine generational leap for Haibike. In line with this progress, the Franconian company is presenting 12 new XDURO models for the 2016 season, with a total of 41 ePerformance bikes.
New motor & new Gravity Casting Interface
Keeping the audience on the edge of the seats, the technical features of the third generation of the XDURO range were outlined first. The integration of the battery and motor received particular attention during the development – and virtually all of the bikes come with the new, much more powerful Bosch Performance CX motor. To use the frame space most efficiently, the motor has been rotated by 20° and is now housed in the brand new Gravity Casting Interface. Mounted directly onto the Interface, there’s no need for a case or adaptor, and this results in saving yet more space (with a 38% reduction in optical size when compared to previous models).
The new Gravity Casting Interface is far removed from one single purpose, as it doesn’t just serve as a mount for the motor, swingarm and shock, and links with the downtube, it also enables better placement of the battery within the frame. While Haibike don’t follow the common approach of attempting to mask the power unit within the frame so that it looks more like a regular mountain bike, they have recognized the importance of improving how they incorporate the battery into the new models. And while dismounting the battery needs to be quick and simple, it is still a priority to ensure that the battery can be charged directly on the bike.
A clever way to protect the display
Haibike have also made huge progress when it comes to the exposure of the display, a fact that we’ve frequently noted as being far from optimal. In fact, Specialized have entirely rid themselves of a display on their new E-MTB, but Haibike are yet to make such a radical change for reasons unknown. However, the XDURO models now guarantee increased protection thanks to the combination of a negative stem and offset bars.
The info centre now sits lower than the bar ends, ensuring far better protection in the case of crashes. The stem, which now dips downwards, works to balance out the height difference of the bars.
2016 sees more carbon
The coming season’s collection sees Haibike expand their carbon portfolio too with nine carbon fibre models consisting of 3 fullys and 6 hardtails. These XDURO3 models will be available in two different wheel sizes. The collection’s standout highlight in the brand new XDURO FullSeven Carbon Ultimate, which is reputed to be the world’s most lightweight carbon fully with mid-drive motor to date. Thanks to the carbon frame, weighing in at just 2,790g, the bike boasts a total weight of just 17.2kg. This has been achieved by honing the spec and laying the carbon fibers parallel to each other in a Monocoque form rather than weaving them.
XDURO goes downhill
“More travel = more fun,” was the motto followed by the Haibike engineers as they designed the new XDURO Downhill Pro. With help from Guido Tschugg, the new brand ambassador and Rampage competitor, Haibike have created a bike with 200mm front and rear travel and the well-known Haibike features like the top tube’s double kink, sprocket equalizing system and the brand new Gravity Casting Interface. According to Haibike, the bike has long and slack geometry, with adjustment possible on features such as the head angle.
New wheel size – 27.5+
Haibike have cottoned onto the benefits of the new wheel size and are duly launching two hardtail models for the coming season, the HardSeven Plus RC and the HardServen RX. These new plus-size models intend to unite the increased traction from the well-known FatSix model with the agility of the regular HardSeven bikes.
The XDURO model range for 2016 in the overview
Our first conclusion
With the new XDURO3 collection, Haibike are off to a strong start for the new season. We particularly like their approach to the new motor, the compact chainstays and the resulting boost to agility. Similarly exciting is the sight of the new plus-size models and the downhill bike. And while the concept of protecting the display with the higher bars is commendable, we aren’t certain that it suffices.
We’ll be presenting more detailed information on the individual bikes in separate articles soon.
For more information visit: haibike.de
Words: Max Schmitt/Christoph Bayer | Pictures: Klaus Kneist/Haibike
Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of E-MOUNTAINBIKE, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality cycling journalism. Click here to learn more.
