A diligent worker with sophistication – The ROTWILD R.X1000
The EMTB magazine thoroughly examined our new R.X1000 in a long-term test. In addition to the standardized assessment of facts and features, this included extensive rounds in the predefined test field: on the tour, uphill, and downhill. A particular incentive for test leader Florentin Vesenbeckh and his team was the Motor.Gearbox.Unit (MGU) from Pinion integrated into the test bike. This allowed the editors to test a production-ready motor-gearbox unit for the first time and refine insights gained previously in practical conditions. Here, we have summarized their impressions.
A look at the geometry
The testers wanted to examine a hypothesis: namely, that the R.X1000 is "the ultimate trouble-free touring bike." The basis for this is the bike's geometry, the elegant carbon frame, the enormous battery capacity with an effective 960 Wh, and the "revolutionary" MGU. They rightly emphasize that the R.X1000 is an evolution of the R.X750. With this model, we significantly expanded the broad field of application for All Mountain Bikes. This application area is defined by long tours in rough terrain with a targeted high range. This requires a powerful eMTB that supports the rider on the way to the destination with its geometry and suspension. The R.X1000 takes up this approach but benefits from an even higher battery capacity. In the standardized range test by EMTB, the bike climbed 2,000 meters in altitude, using the highest support level continuously. In the test lab, the editorial team measured a wheelbase of 1238 mm, a reach of 461 mm, and chainstay length of 445 mm. This makes the R.X1000 "considerably short for an eMTB of this power and suspension class." Thus, it "refuses" to follow the trend that "modern eMTBs are always getting longer and flatter to prepare them for extreme descents and high speeds."
For whom the bike is made
We counter here that this is not the typical use case for the R.X1000 anyway. The boundaries may be fluid, even measured against the individual rider's specific requirements. Florentin Vesenbeckh emphasizes in the further test report the versatility of the bike. It demonstrates its "uncomplicated character" on steep ascents. Moreover, it is easy to control through its direct steering. The rear suspension generates a lot of traction, allowing the rider to maintain "an active and central riding position." Going downhill, "especially the short wheelbase and central weight distribution" ensure agility. However, it prefers to be "moved in a more restrained manner." In this case, it offers the rider "solid stability with successful equipment and a strong suspension." The testers see the bike as "more designed for leisurely tours than for challenging terrain."
The definition of what is rugged always lies in the eye of the beholder. You can read about this in the report on our R.X1000 test in the Austrian Ötztal.
Analysis of the Motor-Gear Unit
In a separate test of a pre-production unit, the editorial team attests to the MGU's potential to "shake up the e-bike market." They propose the idea that Pinion may have found the "Holy Grail of the e-bike industry." Facts supporting this novel symbiosis of the motor and gearbox from the Swabian manufacturer include high performance (up to 85 Nm torque), low wear, and the ability to shift while stationary. Before testing the R.X1000, Florentin Vesenbeckh, quoting Goethe's Faust regarding the MGU, said that "two souls beat within one breast." He praised the high system integration of the unit but criticized aspects such as loud drive noises and "rough" power delivery. However, he acknowledged that the MGU is already "an exciting alternative." Therefore, it is understandable why we, as a bicycle manufacturer, quickly joined in. Indeed, we have been an application partner of Pinion since a very early development phase. The testers positively note that the now production-ready MGU has optimized motor assistance through a software adjustment, providing smoother support. Additionally, the gearbox shifts gears smoothly, similar to the pre-production series. Vesenbeckh cannot avoid acknowledging the confirmation that the motor is louder than comparable products in this e-drive support segment. The "rough motor noise" is criticized by "every rider." However, he qualifies this drawback: "In summary, the system's disadvantages are more subjective, while the factual advantages are clear," says the editor.
If you want to get to know the R.X1000, schedule a personal meeting at the authorized ROTWILD dealer near you.
The Conclusion
According to the testers, the R.X1000 excels particularly in terms of range and touring comfort. It received a perfect score of ten for the former and a nine for pleasant practicality on long journeys. Along with the bike's qualities in uphill riding, Florentin Vesenbeckh is tempted to use three attributes: "uncomplicated," "balanced," and "exceptional." Its characteristics make the R.X1000 a "truly special touring bike." It is a "carefree workhorse in elegant attire." This perspective is one we are happy to share. The editor's view that, for riders interested in a bike with a Pinion MGU, the best basis for decision-making is a proverbial test experience is also shared.
You can read the complete test report in the current issue of EMTB. It is also available on the Bike website.
