Whyte E-150 S

Whyte Bikes has a tiny selection of e-MTBs, but it's clear that the company prioritizes quality above quantity. Bike Perfect has been testing the E-150 S on the trails, and they believe it is one of the greatest e-MTBs due to its well-rounded spec and confident riding characteristics. Although the mainframe is based on the preceding E-150, the chassis is still revolutionary. The down tube is totally enclosed rather than open, which makes it exceedingly stiff. As a result, the 625Wh battery slides directly down in front of the cleverly rotating Bosch Performance CX G4 motor, lowering the frame's weight.

Thankfully, unlike last year's frame, the external sensor lines now exit behind the motor rather than snaking precariously underneath it. To pull the battery out, you still have to unbolt the engine protection plate, which is a nuisance if you don't have a charging station where you store the bike. If you do, the charging port is nicely covered on top of the motor, and the bike is otherwise quite user-friendly and practical. The seat post can be sealed with a rubber gaiter thanks to an internal clamp, and all suspension bearings are guaranteed for life. Rubber armoring covers the chainstays, down tube, and belly, and there's enough for a traditional water bottle on the down tube spine. There’s also plenty of clearance room around the aggressive tread of the Verdict 2.5-inch tires.

While they appear to be similar, the chainstay is slightly longer, at 446mm rather than 442mm, to accommodate the 29-inch back wheel. The chainstay pivot has been lowered significantly to improve anti-squat and provide greater bite and feedback under power. Although the 335mm bottom bracket is still rather slammed considering the amount of travel, the entire bike sits slightly higher. With a 64.7-degree head angle and seat angles ranging from 74.9 to 74.5 degrees depending on size, the reach is nicely balanced at 476mm. The 29er is only available in M, L, or XL sizes due to proportional balancing, however the 150mm, 27.5-inch E-160 variant is available in S and XS sizes.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Rear travel: 140mm
• Frame material: Alloy
• Drive system: Bosch Performance Line CX
• Wheel size: 29in
• SRP: $6,000 / £5,100 / €5,700

REASONS TO BUY

• Outstanding handling
• Bosch overdrive
• Shimano components

REASONS TO AVOID

• Seat angle could be steeper
• Brakes pushed to the limit
• Fork damper struggles sometimes

BUY NOW: whyteusa.bike/products/e-150-s-20