22,04 kg in size M | €10,999 |Manufacturer’s website
Our factory visit to Megamo made one thing clear: the Catalan team means business. With the REASON, not only did they create an agile, good-looking e-mountainbike with strong integration last year, but were also among the first to deliver bikes with the excellent Avinox M1 motor system – something that turned out to be a very smart move. So it comes as no surprise that the new REASON once again relies on a drive system from the Chinese manufacturer for the new model year. Here too, Megamo acted quickly and went straight for the new, even more powerful successor – the M2S. But are Megamo only chasing more power, or has the new REASON CRB 01 MY 2027, which retails at €10,999, also been purposefully refined in terms of suspension, spec, geometry and intended use?
What’s new on the 2027 Megamo REASON?
- New Avinox M2S motor with 1,300 W peak power and 150 Nm maximum torque
- robust Doubledown tire casings instead of EXO
- brand-new FOX 38 Factory instead of the previous FOX 36 Factory
- drivetrain powered directly via the main battery for the SRAM Transmission
- 25 mm more dropper travel (175 mm in size M)
- overall shift in intended use more towards enduro
The new 2027 Megamo REASON CRB 01 in Detail?
On paper, the core concept of the new REASON remains unchanged: it’s still a full 29” e-mountainbike with 160 mm of travel front and rear. Despite the 800 Wh battery and consistently robust spec, our test bike weighs just 22.04 kg. While that makes it slightly heavier than its predecessor, as we found out on the trail, the added weight is justified.
Megamo stay visually true to the REASON. The top model once again comes in a striking orange finish called Amber Orange, now with a revised pattern structure that gives each frame a unique look. It is definitely an eye-catcher, though it comes at an extra €100. For those who prefer something more understated, Megamo offer several more subtle colourways across the range, more on that in the spec and variants chapter.
A key contributor to the bike’s cohesive overall look is the exceptionally slim frame silhouette. The downtube is particularly impressive: with a circumference of just 24 cm, the REASON sets a very high benchmark in terms of integration – especially considering the sizeable 800 Wh battery housed inside. Beyond the down tube, the carbon frame with its four-bar linkage and Horst Link design also appears clean and nicely understated, leaving enough space even for large water bottles. As with its predecessor, the cables are routed neatly through the headset into the frame, reinforcing the tidy appearance. It looks premium, but does mean a bit more effort when it comes to servicing – there’s no option for traditional cable ports on the REASON.
A spring-loaded charging port cover allows for easy access for the included 12 A fast charger while reliably protecting the contacts from dirt and moisture. To keep the REASON’s eye-catching paint finish looking its best over time, Megamo have been thorough with frame protection: a generously sized chainstay protector keeps things quiet on rough descents, a fender between the rear swingarm and seat tube holds dirt at bay, and a robust down tube guard extending from the motor cover shields the slim down tube from chips and trail debris.
The spec of the new 2027 Megamo REASON CRB 01?
At the heart of the new Megamo REASON sits the brand-new Avinox M2S motor. While the previous model’s Avinox M1 motor was certainly not lacking in power, the latest iteration takes things up another notch, delivering a brutal 1,300 watts of peak output and 150 Nm of maximum torque in Boost mode. According to Avinox, the M2S is not only more powerful, but also more efficient and quieter. You can find all the details on the new Avinox M2S motor in our in-depth review.
The energy required for this high output comes from the 800 Wh battery, which is still permanently integrated into the frame and weighs 3.74 kg, promising enough range even for long, demanding days on the trail. The motor system is controlled via a single handlebar remote, which allows you to switch between riding modes. Megamo have opted against a second remote on the right side, keeping the cockpit refreshingly clean. With the high-resolution 2″ touchscreen handling all adjustments, riding modes and individual parameters can be changed quickly and intuitively without reaching for a smartphone or additional remote.
In summary: key facts about the new Avinox M2S motor system
- max. output with removable 800 Wh battery: 1,300 W
- max. torque in Boost mode: 150 Nm
- max. torque in Turbo mode: 130 Nm
- battery: 800 Wh (3.74 kg, 214 Wh/kg)
- drive unit weight: 2.63 kg
Slightly heavier, but significantly more powerful and just as well integrated as before: the brand-new Avinox M2S drive system.
The charging port of the 800 Wh battery sits on the on the seat tube and still features a spring-loaded cover.
Megamo have made some serious adjustments to the suspension. The FOX 36 Factory fork of the predecessor has been replaced by a brand-new FOX 38 Factory. The step from 36 to 38 already promises more stiffness on the paper, and clearly shows that Megamo want to give the REASON a more downhill-oriented edge. The latest version of the 38 also is claimed to have less internal friction compared to the previous model. You can find all the details about this fork in the in-depth test from our sister magazine ENDURO. Megamo spec the 160 mm travel version with GRIP X2 damper in the REASON, offering maximum adjustability and downhill performance. Matching this, the rear is handled by a FOX FLOAT X2 Factory shock – also in its latest version and with the same high level of adjustability.
When it comes to the wheels, Megamo continue to use the DT Swiss HXC 1501 wheelset with carbon rims on the REASON CRB 01 model, which strikes an excellent balance between durability and weight. The tire setup also remains familiar: a MAXXIS ASSEGAI with MaxxGrip compound at the front and a Minion DHR II with MaxxTerra compound at the rear. However, Megamo have addressed one of the main criticisms we had of the previous model. Instead of the lighter EXO casings, they now consistently spec the significantly more robust Doubledown casing front and rear. A sensible upgrade that not only improves cornering stability thanks to stiffer sidewalls, but also significantly increases puncture protection. Even though this inevitably adds weight, it’s the right choice for an e-bike in this travel category.
Another small but crucial update lies within the drivetrain details: instead of the XX AXS Transmission variant, our test bike came equipped with the slightly heavier but more robust SRAM X0 AXS Transmission model. More significant, however, is the improved integration of the drivetrain system: the electronic derailleur on the new REASON is now powered directly via cable from the main battery. This not only eliminates the need to regularly charge AXS batteries, but also enables practical features such as automatic shifting without pedalling (Smooth Shift) as well as protective functions for the chain and drivetrain, where motor output is reduced during gear changes. Both features offer real added value on the trail and can help reduce drivetrain wear over time.
When it comes to braking, Megamo also refuse to make compromises in favour of lower overall weight: stopping is handled by Shimano XT four-piston brakes with 203 mm rotors front and rear. Braking performance is powerful, lever ergonomics are spot on, and the overall package feels perfectly balanced.
For riders with longer legs, some compromise on the dropper post remains unavoidable. In the size M we tested, the FOX Transfer now offers 175 mm of travel, 25 mm more than on the previous model, but for a modern eMTB it still falls on the short side, particularly for taller riders with longer limbs.
The spec of the Megamo REASON is rounded off by a cockpit from Race Face. The Era carbon handlebar measures 800 mm in width and has a low 20 mm rise. Our test bike came fitted with Race Face Half Nelson grips, which visually match the overall look well, but lack a bit of comfort in terms of damping. The production version of the REASON, however, is expected to come with grips from Fizik.
Tuning tip: Upgrade to a longer dropper post.
Which spec variants are available for the new 2027 Megamo REASON?
For the 2027 season, the new Megamo REASON is available in an impressive ten variants – six of them, including our test bike, are built around a full carbon frame, while four use a classic aluminium frame. The carbon models (REASON CRB) range in price from € 5,999 to € 10,999, whereas the aluminium versions (REASON AL) are positioned more affordably, from € 4,999 up to € 7,499.
In addition, there’s the REASON AIR as a sister model, which is designed for trail and all-mountain use and generates 140 mm of travel. Here too, Megamo offer a wide range, with six build variants and two frame materials, with prices ranging between € 4,999 and € 11,999.
Both the REASON and the REASON AIR get completely new colour options for the new model year. True to Megamo’s style, the range is broad and mostly vibrant. Whether it’s individually structured, light-reactive, two-tone finishes or raw carbon – Megamo have clearly gone all out again with the new REASON.
All REASON models share the new Avinox M2S motor and the permanently integrated 800 Wh battery. Depending on the spec, the 12 A fast charger is also included.
Our test bike comes in the REASON CRB 01 spec and, at € 10,999, is now € 500 cheaper than its predecessor with a comparable spec. Alongside the textured “Amber Orange” finish, Megamo also offer “Green” and “Black” options, allowing for a more understated look.
Available for € 2,000 less is the REASON CRB 02 – the only REASON model equipped with RockShox suspension components. Up front, it already features the brand-new ZEB Ultimate fork. Like the top model, this version also stands out visually – the “White Ice” paint finish is exclusive to the REASON CRB 02 and also catches the eye with its integrated pattern structure.
The REASON CRB 03 AXS and REASON CRB 03 sit at €8,499 and €7,999 respectively, both built around a high-end FOX Factory suspension setup with the new FOX 38 fork and a FLOAT X Factory shock. The CRB 03 AXS steps up with an electronic drivetrain, a feature also found on the top-spec aluminium model, the REASON AL 03 AXS. At €7,499, it delivers the same spec as its carbon counterpart at €1,000 less.
The REASON 05 retails at € 6,999 with a carbon frame, or € 5,999 in the aluminium version, featuring a simpler FOX Performance suspension. Even so, Megamo still spec the same high-quality Shimano XT four-piston brakes as found on the € 10,999 REASON CRB 01.
The REASON 07 is the entry point into the REASON family, available at €5,999 or €4,999 depending on frame material. As in the previous model year, this comes with noticeable spec compromises: the FOX AWL HD fork and FOX FLOAT Rhythm shock are easy to adjust but fall well short of the performance offered by the higher-end REASON models. Braking is handled by Shimano DEORE brakes, while wheels, dropper post and cockpit come from Megamo’s own aluminium components.
The geometry of the 2027 Megamo REASON CRB 01: size matters!
The geometry of the Megamo REASON remains unchanged and is clearly geared towards descending performance. The head angle sits at a slack 63.5°, while the steep 77° seat angle promises an efficient pedalling position. Also notable are the 454 mm chainstays (size M), which grow with the frame size. For a bike in this category, those are on the longer side.
The biggest change compared to the previous model year lies in the frame sizes. Megamo have responded to our criticism of the previous generation and now offer the REASON in an additional frame size. Alongside S, M and L, the new REASON is now also available in size XL.
Our test bike in size M comes with a reach of 470 mm. Move up to size L and, just like the previous model, that figure jumps quickly to a hefty 500 mm. We’d like to see finer increments here, so riders of every height can find a truly spot-on fit.
A flip chip in the shock mount allows you to adjust the geometry. We rode the bike in the low position, which is clearly focused on downhill performance and sports a slacker head angle and lower bottom bracket. In the high position, the head angle becomes 0.2° steeper and the bottom bracket sits 3 mm higher.
| Size (Low) | S | M | L | XL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top tube | 584 mm | 617 mm | 651 mm | 665 mm |
| Seat tube | 400 mm | 420 mm | 455 mm | 460 mm |
| Head tube | 100 mm | 120 mm | 140 mm | 152 mm |
| Head angle | 63.5° | 63.5° | 63.5° | 63.5° |
| Seat angle | 77° | 77° | 77° | 77° |
| Chainstay | 450 mm | 454 mm | 458 mm | 458 mm |
| BB Drop | 30 mm | 30 mm | 30 mm | 30 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,233 mm | 1,274 mm | 1,317 mm | 1,334 mm |
| Reach | 442 mm | 470 mm | 500 mm | 512 mm |
| Stack | 617 mm | 635 mm | 653 mm | 664 mm |
The new 2027 Megamo REASON CRB 01 on the trail?
On the climbs, the REASON benefits from a sporty, compact riding position paired with a relatively steep seat angle. This puts you in a strong position to drive power through the pedals while keeping the front wheel nicely planted. The front end is fairly low, yet it stays impressively composed even on steep pitches, so you don’t need much body movement to keep things balanced. Traction is excellent, though the brute force of the M2S motor means it’s rarely pushed to its limits, as you tend to carry plenty of speed over obstacles.
The REASON handles short, brutally steep climbs with real confidence and astonishing speed, and the extra punch over the M1 motor is immediately obvious. Even so, the drive remains easy to control and pleasantly subdued in terms of noise, at least until you tap into full power, when a distinct electric whirr starts to make itself heard.
Point it downhill and it becomes obvious within the first few metres: the Megamo REASON still feels compact, light and incredibly intuitive. Its low overall weight makes it playfully easy to pick high lines, change direction on the fly or actively pop the bike off the trail. It’s huge fun, and you always get the sense that you can place it exactly where you want it.
Despite the relatively low front end, you remain well balanced on the bike, and the handling is exceptionally approachable: agile, playful and hugely confidence-inspiring. Quick changes of direction come effortlessly, while bunny hops, small gaps and active riding manoeuvres all feel easy and natural.
Despite its nimble character, the bike impresses with excellent composure, especially through rough sections like rock gardens and at higher speeds. Only on very steep terrain do you find yourself wishing for a bit more height at the front.
One of the standout features of the new Megamo REASON is its suspension. The brand-new FOX 38 with GRIP X2 damper is exceptionally sensitive off the top and noticeably less fatiguing on long, technical descents than its predecessor. It makes excellent use of its travel while remaining precise and consistently supportive throughout. Paired with the FOX FLOAT X2 Factory shock, the result is a beautifully balanced overall package with a nicely progressive ramp-up. The bike is impressively quiet on the trail too, with only the Shimano brake hoses producing a slight rattle against the handlebars.
All in all, the Megamo REASON CRB 01 strikes a remarkably good balance between agility and composure. It feels more playful than many classic e-mountain bikes, yet still tracks with impressive stability. The tougher spec has done the REASON’s descending performance a world of good without turning it into a heavy, cumbersome bike. That’s functional lightweight design done right!
Who is the new Megamo REASON CRB 01 the right e-MTB for?
The Megamo REASON CRB 01 is aimed at riders looking for a lightweight yet highly capable e-mountain bike that never feels sluggish, instead encouraging an active riding style and rewarding you for it. It shines as a versatile all-rounder, delivering a playful, agile and lively ride while still offering enough reserves and composure to handle rough terrain with confidence. If you value outstanding suspension performance, intuitive handling and maximum fun on both flow trails and technical tracks, this is a seriously well-rounded package. And with a wide range of spec options and price points, there’s a setup to suit almost every rider.
The right bike for:
Cross-country enthusiasts
The REASON delivers a very sporty riding position with its low front end and steep seat angle, paired with a motor system that could have you dropping even Nino Schurter.
Power-hungry riders
If you were happy with the M1 but always wanted more, the M2S motor brings a noticeable boost in power and takes the fun factor up another notch.
Paint lovers
Few bikes offer such a wide range of stunning paint finishes, so there’s something here for every taste.
Not the right bike for:
Comfort-focused tourers
If all-day comfort is your priority, there are better options with a more upright riding position for long-distance rides.
Fans of extravagant frame design
The REASON’s frame is clean and purposeful but not particularly eye-catching. That said, the rear suspension design works exceptionally well.
Is the new Megamo REASON better than its predecessor?
In short: yes, in all the areas that matter.
The previous model already impressed with strong motor performance and a low overall weight, but it did have minor shortcomings when it came to tyre choice and detail integration.
The new REASON:
- climbs with even more punch and urgency
- feels more composed in tough terrain thanks to the more robust tyres
- benefits significantly from the new FOX 38
- integrates the Transmission more seamlessly into the motor system
The slight weight increase over the previous model is barely noticeable in real-world riding. If anything, downhill performance and durability both take a clear step forward.
Conclusions about the 2027 Megamo REASON CRB 01
Megamo have clearly done their homework. A significantly tougher tyre spec, the latest suspension components, subtle detail improvements and impressive composure all come together to form a thoroughly cohesive package. Add the brute yet well-controlled M2S motor, and the new REASON steps up to another level entirely. Despite the updates, overall weight remains low, giving the REASON a surprisingly light-footed feel on the trail. It is an active, lively eMTB that delivers enormous amounts of fun both on the climbs and the descents. The only caveats are the low front end and rather coarse sizing increments, which may require some fine-tuning or compromise depending on the rider.
Tops
- agile, direct handling
- impressive composure at speed
- excellent suspension performance
- sleek, understated frame silhouette
- low overall weight
Flops
- dropper post still too short
For more information, visit Megamo.
Words: Lars Engmann Photos: Benedikt Schmidt
About the Author
Lars Engmann
Lars Engmann is an editor at 41 Publishing. His work is strongly influenced by his background as an engineer and technical writer, with his experience of driving resistance determination giving him sharp analytical skills. He is responsible for operative individual and comparison tests for E-MOUNTAINBIKE and ENDURO, with a focus on range analysis and efficiency measurements. As a specialist in optimisation and system weight, he brings his passion for precision to product evaluation. He combines technical documentation with applied performance analysis in the E-Performance segment.
