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"Elevation range – the new benchmark?"
"How far and high can you get with one battery charge? That is the crucial question and for most the true benchmark for the EMTB test". The market demands this data as it allows for comparisons between EMTBs and makes this data tangible for the consumer. However, in future, the consumer will get used to the idea that the feel of the ride, geometry and design are the significant factors.
Along the way, we will be confronted more and more by this new measuring method. For this test, a new testing method was used to determine the elevation range. The elevation range, as the new detail, replaces the familiar "range". It is measured with the highest assist level. Friction, air resistance, ambient temperature and fluctuations in the rider's performance are weighted less significantly for the elevation range test than for the range test. According to EMTB, the measured elevation in metres provides better comparability for EMTBs.
JAM² PLUS PRO, at 756 Wh, is out in front in the elevation range test and achieves an impressive 1,768 metres in altitude. It is followed by Trek (Bosch Performance CX, 250 Wh, 1,457 metres in altitude), Bulls (Shimano Steps MTB, 250 Wh, 1,449 metres in altitude), Cube (Bosch CX, 250 Wh, 1,421 metres in altitude) and Lapierre (Bosch Cx, 250 Wh, 1,390 metres in altitude).
"Does it need efficiency data as with electrical appliances?"
Efficiency is another detail which could gain significance in the future. It specifies the average power consumption of a system: the work accomplished comprises both the work of the drive and the work of the rider. Thus, the battery is run to empty on the test bench at a constant rider power of 130 watts and with a defined ascent. The charging work is then measured and correlated in order to calculate the resultant efficiency. Similar to electrical appliances, A, A+ and A++ are the categories defined.
In this case, the JAM² PLUS PRO with the SHIMANO Steps drive, at 58.5%, achieves efficiency class A+ and is closely behind the Trek with the BOSCH Performance CX drive, which is at 59.8%. No drive achieves efficiency class A++.
A positive step towards giving the subject of range a new direction. Metres in altitude before kilometres, efficiency before watt-hours.
Verdict: "Harmonious all-round package": modular battery system, impressive riding performance and design of the JAM² PLUS PRO. The T.E.C. pack makes the bike extremely variable. Moreover, it provides excellent geometry in all riding situations.
FOCUS JAM² PLUS PRO | 23.4 kg | €6,499 + €499 for a T.E.C. pack
Suspension fork RockShox Yari RC 140 mm
Damper Sram Deluxe RT 140 mm
Motor/battery SHIMANO STEPS/E-8000 up to 756 Wh (2x378 Wh)
Brakes Shimano Deore XT
Transmission Shimano Xt-Di2, 11x
Seatpost Rockshox Reverb
Tyres Schwalbe Nobby Nic Plus 2.8
Wheels DT Swiss
The test in detail: EMTB powered by BIKE, 01/2017
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