Ever heard of NOX? No? We’re not surprised! First of all, you won’t find these bikes in any conventional shops, as they’re sold directly on the internet. Secondly, this online seller didn’t even offer E-Mountainbikes until now. Is the Berlin-based company doing it right with the NOX Bike EDT 5.1 Hybrid?
The first impression of the EDT 5.1 is that it looks a lot like its bigger brother, the EDT 6.7. This is no surprise, as the two frames share many parts. The aluminium frame accommodates an integrated Brose motor, which can be powered by either a 580 Wh or 770 Wh integrated battery. In this case motor integration is intended to be beneficial to functionality rather than aesthetics. The travel on the EDT 5.1’s shock can be adjusted between 130 and 150 mm via two different pivot points, as can the fork on its own online configurator. NOX opted for a set of classic 27.5″ wheels with grippy MAXXIS HighRoller II- and DHR II tires.
The sitting position on the EDT 5.1 is slightly stretched and for those spending many hours on steep climbs, we recommend moving the saddle forward. The slack seat-angle of 73° will make people with longer legs feel like they’re sitting far back, over the rear wheel. The integrated Brose-motor operates quietly and we really like the natural power transfer. While the power delivery is always sufficient, sprinting isn’t that great. Descents are the true strength of the NOX; here the bike makes a great impression with superb handling qualities and riding stability. The thin tires can’t match the level of comfort offered by the much wider Plus-version and a combination of a slack head-angle and a long reach require a more proactive riding style in order to keep the front wheel glued to the ground. This can quickly become an issue for less experienced riders. The suspension system works smoothly and underlines the powerful image of the bike.
The NOX Bike EDT 5.1 Hybrid in detail
Fork RockShox Yari RC 150 mm
Rear shock RockShox Super Deluxe R 150 mm
Motor / Battery Brose / 580 Wh
Brakes Magura MT5
Drivetrain SRAM EX1
Seatpost RockShox Reverb Stealth
Stem NOX EDH Stem 50 mm
Handlebar NOX DH Bar 780 mm
Tires MAXXIS HighRoller II / Minion DHR II
Wheels DT Swiss E1900 Spline
With the NOX EDT 5.1 customers have a choice between a traditional big display or the mini display.
The MAGURA MT5 brakes with a 200 mm rotor are powerful performers. An ideal option for an E-Mountainbike.
The thin MAXXIS-tires are an advantage for agile and fast handling, but can’t really match the grip, traction and comfort of chubbier 27.5+ rubber. We recommend rims with at least 30 mm internal width and 2.5″ tires.
When choosing how to integrate the Brose motor, NOX decides to go the traditional way and renounce a motor-cover or frame integration. Functionally it’s spot on, aesthetically not so great.
NOX Bike EDT 5.1 Hybrid
Conclusion
The NOX Bike EDT 5.1 Hybrid is a solid E-Mountainbike for those in search of an agile and aggressive bike. It’s fast and nimble but still very forgiving. Exactly as its bigger brother, the EDT 5.1 requires a proactive riding style to really excel on the trail. The lack of a set of plus tires makes it one of the less comfortable options.
Strengths
– Agile handling
– Really good suspension
– Natural ride-feeling
– Long range
Weaknesses
– Seat is positioned too far back
– Requires an active riding-styleil
– Thin rims and tires offer low levels of comfort
For more Information head to: noxcycles.com
For an overview of the test fleet head to the main article: 11 E-MTBs under € 5,000 in Comparison
All bikes in test: Bergamont E-Trailster 8.0 | CENTURION No Pogo E2000 27+ | FOCUS JAM² 29 | Giant Full-E+0 Pro | Haibike SDURO AllMtn 7.0 | KTM MACINA Kapoho LT 273 | MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 800 | SCOTT E-Genius 720 Plus | Specialized Turbo Levo FSR 6FATTIE | Trek Powerfly 8 FS
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