Light eMTB or something unique? The R.X275 in the Mountainbike test
The mountain bike magazine Mountainbike took a close look at light eMTBs in a test. "Consistent lightweight construction" and "switchable extra boost" were special parameters that the testers led by editor Chris Pauls used as the basis for selecting the test candidate. The question they sought an answer to was whether the bikes in their segment could "set the bar high" with special features. Our R.X275 in the PRO equipment variant was also thoroughly tested in this context. Especially when it comes to extra support, our lightweight trail bike scored points. The rider benefits from the effect of the boost button. This is a function that we developed within the framework of integrating the HPR50 motor from TQ into the concept of the R.X275 itself. It is an essential part of eAssist – our drive concept that precisely supports the rider in their focus on their own performance.
A small red ring with a big impact
By activating the distinctive red ring on the left side of the handlebar, the rider receives assistance of up to 300 watts for up to 30 seconds. 'The idea behind this is that full power [...] can only be accessed briefly, for example, to overcome a steep incline,' describes the editorial team the purpose of the concept. That hits the nail on the head. Because we want to highlight the rider's own effort and provide motor assistance subtly, almost subliminally. Therefore, the interaction of motor, battery, and Boost Button in the R.X275 is defined by us as eAssist. It's a system that supports the rider subtly but continuously. The prerequisite is that the rider adjusts this assistance entirely to their individual needs. This sets our bike apart from traditional light eMTBs, where the drive is an essential part of the concept, for example, to tackle uphill climbs. On the R.X275, the rider primarily generates propulsion with their own power and only requires support in specific situations. The HPR50 motor provides a torque of 50 Nm. 'Above all, the unit operates almost silently and very harmoniously,' say the testers. The weight of the motor is 1,850 g. It draws energy from the battery we developed ourselves, with an effective capacity of 250 Wh, 'which is supposed to weigh a minimalist 1,400 g'.
Learn more about the R.X275 PRO here.
It should be as lightweight as possible
Weight is not only important for the testers in terms of the interaction between the motor and battery. "Thanks to highly modular carbon, the absence of the fourth rear suspension link, and a built-in battery," we achieve a frame weight - without motor, battery, and shock absorber - of 2,350 g. Overall, "the Rotwild weighs in at an incredibly light 16.4 kilograms [...]." We'd like to add: The handcrafted raw frame made from 580 individual carbon pieces weighs only 1,893 g. Additionally, the R.X275 in the ULTRA equipment variant is about 1 kg lighter. Especially the models in the eMTB weight class that are "(far) below 20 kilograms" are known to "offer more trail fun than 'normal' e-MTBs while still providing sufficient range." This is how the editorial team defines it in the test. However, "the truth about light e-bikes" is that "neither the low weight nor the 'fuel-saving' motors can completely compensate for the reduced battery capacity." In the subsequent comparison of range heights to a conventional eMTB, we naturally come up with a lower value with the R.X275. These numbers always need to be assessed based on the rider's individual usage. Furthermore, the R.X275 is about a very personal setting for the athlete. That's why we consciously positioned it at the beginning of the eMTB performance scale. This allows us to live with the comparison. Additionally, the editorial team notes: "The ascetic weight also makes itself felt in the handling, i.e., the trail fun." The testers praise the "sensationally agile handling." "You can hardly believe you're riding an e-MTB."
The R.X275 is "Handmade in Dieburg." Read more here about the production of the bike.
The R.X275 is characterized by its excellent geometry and riding pleasure.
The testers' conclusion about the R.X275 is very positive. Modern geometry, powerful suspension, and high-quality craftsmanship make it an agile bike. However, categorizing it as a Light-eMTB is challenging for the experts at the magazine due to the motor's performance and battery capacity. Tester Chris Pauls says, "Even with a Light-E-MTB, I want to keep up with a group riding Full-Power E-MTBs." On the other hand, his colleague Lukas Ittenbach emphasizes, "The Rotwild is the ideal training partner for me because of its reduced design." The advantage of the R.X275 lies in its ability to "swiftly progress on the trail even beyond 25 km/h." It shines "thanks to modern top-notch geometry, providing both safety and enjoyment." Additionally, the editors highlight the "well-designed display" and "thoughtful components," although they could have been of "higher quality." The testers rode the R.X275 in the PRO equipment variant. The bike is also available in the higher-end ULTRA equipment variant, featuring components such as the FOX 34 Float Factory fork or the FOX Transfer SL seatpost in Kashima alloy, along with Shimano XTR components.
You can read the entire test in the "Free Extra: 24 Pages E-MTB" in the May 2024 issue of Mountainbike magazine.