First bike dilemma

[nickw1965]

First question how does anyone ever manage to decide on first e bike to buy.The choices out there are daunting.I know I want a full suspension and have allowed £6000 max.Trouble is now do I buy higher spec this years models or pay the extra for next years.
My shortlist is

Specialised Levo Carbon 2019
or well priced
OVERVOLT AM 927I ULTIMATE SHIMANO 500W at just over £5000

Any opinions most welcome

 

[khorn]

First question how does anyone ever manage to decide on first e bike to buy.The choices out there are daunting.I know I want a full suspension and have allowed £6000 max.Trouble is now do I buy higher spec this years models or pay the extra for next years.
My shortlist is

Specialised Levo Carbon 2019
or well priced
OVERVOLT AM 927I ULTIMATE SHIMANO 500W at just over £5000

Any opinions most welcome

Best advice is to go out and test ride what you are interested ind and follow your gut feeling - People tend to advice in the same direction as their own choices ?

I have a 2018 Levo and super happy about the bike.

Karsten

 

[DaveMatthews]

Best advice is to go out and test ride what you are interested ind and follow your gut feeling - People tend to advice in the same direction as their own choices ?

I have a 2018 Levo and super happy about the bike.

Karsten

This is a fact... which is why everyone should own a Giant!

 

[Dusty]

6k budget you can certainly shop around...depends how patient you are too the new flyon for 2019 looks like another leap in ebike growth. So many choices I quite like the kenevo and also the fantic 180

 

[Mike Smith]

Main problem I guess there is so much info and opinions on this Forum, I got mine before being a member, I originaly had 2 on my list Lapierre and Specialised , the LBS only had the Specialised in, but once I rode it it I thought this is the one.

 

[R120]

Treat it like any other bike purchase, the motor is totally irrelevant if the bike doesn't fit you, or work for the kind of riding you wont to do.

All the good motors will get you up to the top of the hill with a smile on your face, no need to get bogged down in which is best, in reality they are all pretty similar, though the new TQ Motor in the Haibike Flyon may change this, but as yet no one has ridden it.

Whatever bike you buy will be outdated within 2 years, but IMO the tech is good enough now not to worry too much about that.

If you are wanting to regularly do longer rides then its worth looking at a bike with a larger battery, or option of having a range extender battery.

Can you charge the battery where you store the bike, or are you going to have to take out the battery and charge it elsewhere? if so you want an easily removable battery.

Bare in mind that the memebers oh here have a very wide skilbase, and that some are riding these bikes like you see in the magazines/videos, and others are just enjoying getting into the countryside. The bike that its best for someone thrashing it down red and black runs at trail centres is not going to be the best for someone just hitting local single track.

Do you need to ride with a water bottle? A lot of e-mtbs do not have the ability to mount a bottle cage - small thing but annoying for some.

If you are not mechanically confident then buying from a local dealer is probably worth considering, as having the back up from them if you have any issues will be invaluable if you are unsure of working on a bike yourself.

If you have a 6k budget do you need a 6k bike? Lots of good bikes for less than that, and then you have spare change to upgrade bike as and when

 

[nickw1965]

Haibike xDuro AllMtn 8.0 FLYON 2019 is looking like one hell of a bike.Downside is I have had 3 stores tell me not coming till April/May next year. Worth the wait ? Would be nice if some early pre launch reviews existed.I live in Hampshire UK and have great local runs over Fleet and South Downs so not looking to ride just trails. The Levo 2019 is getting some cracking reviews but can’t find any owners to rate the Lapierre Overvolt

 

[Rob Rides EMTB]

Haibike xDuro AllMtn 8.0 FLYON 2019 is looking like one hell of a bike.Downside is I have had 3 stores tell me not coming till April/May next year. Worth the wait ? Would be nice if some early pre launch reviews existed.I live in Hampshire UK and have great local runs over Fleet and South Downs so not looking to ride just trails. The Levo 2019 is getting some cracking reviews but can’t find any owners to rate the Lapierre Overvolt

It's coming in June. No pre launch bikes out yet, just pre production models.

 

[nickw1965]

It's coming in June. No pre launch bikes out yet, just pre production models.

June your kidding me.Looks like them shops where just keen to get a deposit.
Can’t wait that long

 

[Rob Rides EMTB]

June your kidding me.Looks like them shops where just keen to get a deposit.
Can’t wait that long

Thats what the UK brand manager told me last week.

 

[Gary]

First question how does anyone ever manage to decide on first e bike to buy

First thing I look for with any bike purchase is a frame with as close to my ideal geometry as possible. (with a full sus I'm basically looking for low BB, slack H/A but not too long and with medium to short stays and not a 29er or plus bike). I like playful DH orientated FS bikes. This alone narrows down the options hugely and tends to only include the longer travel bikes on the market.
Then I'll look at the suspension kinematics. (I want a progressive leverage curve with good pedalling and braking traits and not a single pivot design)
As for which model to go for. IMO good quality suspension components are what is most important. then lastly whether the components/finishing kit is good/suitable for how I'm going to be riding it.
I don't need the top level most expensive kit. after a certain level the gains in performance are tiny.
Unlike the advice above I'd narrowed my choice of motor down to two models based on reading lots about the various differences between the main motors.

I also look at bikes that are somewhere close to the geometry I prefer but not quite and study the geometry to work out if I can alter the set-up to suit me. ie. changing suspension stroke, swapping wheels out for different sizes, fitting angled headsets, off set shock bushings.

The last thing I would ever base a bike purchase on is whether it can hold a waterbottle. Other than my roadbike none of my bikes have waterbottle cages.

My budget when looking was £5k but I spent £3k on by far the most suitable bike for my needs I could have. And other than the tyres, grips and pedals to my preference I haven't changed a thing. Well... except swapping the dropper post to a 150mm version but that was a warranty deal as the 120mm model became faulty.

I didn't ride a single Ebike before mine arrived. and I still haven't ridden any others to this day.

 

[nickw1965]

Rob

Thats what the UK brand manager told me last week.

Rob
Went down Berkshire cycles

First thing I look for with any bike purchase is a frame with as close to my ideal geometry as possible. (with a full sus I'm basically looking for low BB, slack H/A but not too long and with medium to short stays and not a 29er or plus bike). I like playful DH orientated FS bikes. This alone narrows down the options hugely and tends to only include the longer travel bikes on the market.
Then I'll look at the suspension kinematics. (I want a progressive leverage curve with good pedalling and braking traits and not a single pivot design)
As for which model to go for. IMO good quality suspension components are what is most important. then lastly whether the components/finishing kit is good/suitable for how I'm going to be riding it.
I don't need the top level most expensive kit. after a certain level the gains in performance are tiny.
Unlike the advice above I'd narrowed my choice of motor down to two models based on reading lots about the various differences between the main motors.

I also look at bikes that are somewhere close to the geometry I prefer but not quite and study the geometry to work out if I can alter the set-up to suit me. ie. changing suspension stroke, swapping wheels out for different sizes, fitting angled headsets, off set shock bushings.

The last thing I would ever base a bike purchase on is whether it can hold a waterbottle. Other than my roadbike none of my bikes have waterbottle cages.

My budget when looking was £5k but I spent £3k on by far the most suitable bike for my needs I could have. And other than the tyres, grips and pedals to my preference I haven't changed a thing. Well... except swapping the dropper post to a 150mm version but that was a warranty deal as the 120mm model became faulty.

I didn't ride a single Ebike before mine arrived. and I still haven't ridden any others to this day.

Gary
What your saying is great advice .Problem for me is I’m returning back to mountain biking after a 20 year gap.(ish)I have no preset ideas of what I really need regarding frame geometry etc.
I currently ride a “ICE “ recumbent trike on the road but sadly the only adrenaline rush I get out of that is how close lorries come when passing me.At 5’10” most cycle shops are pointing me towards large frame.With my little experience I would most probably never know if the bike was perfect regards size,reach etc.

 

[nickw1965]

IPad having a mare.Replied to Gary’s message in Robs post ????

 

[Gary]

Ask yourself honestly how and where you're going to be riding it. Then the same as with a non-Ebike choose a bike in the correct category XC > AM > Trail > Enduro > DH

Pretty much all bikes have lengthened and become slacker over the last few years. Modern longer slacker bikes are designed for maximum stability while descending, with extra descending stability always comes reduced nimbleness. (no matter what the marketeers would like you to believe). It's all a compromise but a big long super slack super stable bike is really not the one for medeocre trails. Generally speaking the shorter travel bikes tend to be less slack/long. An old skool rider like yourself might actually benefit from sizing down to Medium. You'll benefit from a less stretched out position and more standover height/dropper post clearance and I wouldn't worry about the loss of stability, a modern M will still be longer and more stable than your last bike 20years back was.

 

[Gary]

With my little experience I would most probably never know if the bike was perfect regards size,reach etc.

If in doubt...
Buy a Large 2019 carbon Levo.
It might not be the right bike or even size for you but you'll have reserved your place in Ebike heaven and the respect of over half the Emtb riders in the world for buying the latest greatest product ever marketed to us

 

[Interpaul]

I have a 2015/15 Lapierre Overvolt SX800. Been a great bike for me. Tweaks cycles have the Lapierre AM727 for 4.6k this a great spec and if you wanted to get equivalent in a Levo you would need to spend £3k more.

You can buy a spare battery for the Lapierre for around £500, you will need one. For the Levo the 500Wh is £750 and the 700Wh is £1k.

I think it's an easy decision...

 

[nickw1965]

I have a 2015/15 Lapierre Overvolt SX800. Been a great bike for me. Tweaks cycles have the Lapierre AM727 for 4.6k this a great spec and if you wanted to get equivalent in a Levo you would need to spend £3k more.

You can buy a spare battery for the Lapierre for around £500, you will need one. For the Levo the 500Wh is £750 and the 700Wh is £1k.

I think it's an easy decision...

E bikes in Farnham have 20% off on Lapierre and 5 minutes from my house .That makes the Lapierre Overvolt AM 927i 2018
Around £5359
Going on previous advice from members above suspension spec and drive plays a big part.This bike has some of fox’s best front and rear suspension as well as Shimano XT Di2 electric shifting.Thing is this is a big investment and can’t see me trading in for a few years so needs to be best spec I can afford.
I have full intention of riding hard as my confidence builds so it’s going to get some abuse.
The Levo gets nothing but praise and comes in at same price in carbon, however it’s good to be different ?

 

[Gary]

I have full intention of riding hard as my confidence builds so it’s going to get some abuse.

And you honestly want a £200 electronic rear mech hanging off the back of your bike?

Have you ridden the Fox suspension. and if so have you compared it to other brands (eg. RS?)

 

[nickw1965]

And you honestly want a £200 electronic rear mech hanging off the back of your bike?

Have you ridden the Fox suspension. and if so have you compared it to other brands (eg. RS?)

Gary
Just booked a demo to try out.Only seen and read reviews on these components on different bikes separately.Never together on this exact make.The electronic shifting does come across as a possible potential fail factor but can’t find any long term reviews on it.
I have ridden a couple of full suspension bikes (non e) one with 140 front forks and the other 160. I found the 160 more forgiving on the hits if taken incorrectly.
The Lapierre 900 comes in cheaper with Bosch cx motor and 150 Rock Shocks.The store stocks most of range So was hoping for some good solid advice while there.

 

[nickw1965]

Gary
Just booked a demo to try out.Only seen and read reviews on these components on different bikes separately.Never together on this exact make.The electronic shifting does come across as a possible potential fail factor but can’t find any long term reviews on it.
I have ridden a couple of full suspension bikes (non e) one with 140 front forks and the other 160. I found the 160 more forgiving on the hits if taken incorrectly.
The Lapierre 900 comes in cheaper with Bosch cx motor and 150 Rock Shocks.The store stocks most of range So was hoping for some good solid advice while there.

The Lapierre am900i spec as follows comes in at £4400

 

[Gary]

PIKE RC and Superdeluxe RT3 are both high end suspension components.
Depending on your experience and how/where you ride I'm not even sure you'd notice the difference between them and the Fox units.
If you think you will then it;s your choice as to if it's worth the extra money to you.

The Lappiere weight a LOT more than the Levo. And weight really is noticeable. Again depending on how you ride though.

 

[Interpaul]

Review of the differences between the Bosch and Steps Lapierre bikes here

I have ridden Steps, Yam, Bosch and Brose. I find the Bosch the least natural feeling and it has lag.

I don't think 2kg makes much difference when the bike is moving, so although the 2019 levo is 21.5kg in a medium the LP is 24kg in large, not much difference when the bike is moving.

This is you first ebike, whatever you get you will like. They are awesome!

 

[nickw1965]

Review of the differences between the Bosch and Steps Lapierre bikes here

I have ridden Steps, Yam, Bosch and Brose. I find the Bosch the least natural feeling and it has lag.

I don't think 2kg makes much difference when the bike is moving, so although the 2019 levo is 21.5kg in a medium the LP is 24kg in large, not much difference when the bike is moving.

This is you first ebike, whatever you get you will like. They are awesome!

Many thanks for the review link.Great reading and has given me a much clearer picture of the range

 

[nickw1965]

The Lapierre am900i spec as follows comes in at £4400

View attachment 5709

After a internet search now found the Lapierre Overvolt AM 900i for £3700 .Now that could be the deal breaker.Looking forward to the demo

 

[mark.ai]

I have a Lapierre Overvolt 927i and I can tell you I'm very happy with it. But I'm new to MTBing and I don't ride hard & fast like some on here, so I can't really comment on handling

The only niggle I've had has been the lock sticking, but spraying with lube occasionally has fixed that. And the snake battery is great - goes in & out easily and is well protected, plus a spare battery will easily fit in a backpack.

My favourite feature on it has to be the di2 rear derailleur. Gear changes are just so crisp and precise. And fits in nicely with the Shimano motor etc.

Comments above about weight are correct - it seems to be heavier than some other brands. My XL is close to 25kg with battery and still running with stock tyres & tubes. (I've changed pedals, bars, grips & saddle, but probably similar weight to originals).

See what you think after some demos

 

[nickw1965]

I have a Lapierre Overvolt 927i and I can tell you I'm very happy with it. But I'm new to MTBing and I don't ride hard & fast like some on here, so I can't really comment on handling

The only niggle I've had has been the lock sticking, but spraying with lube occasionally has fixed that. And the snake battery is great - goes in & out easily and is well protected, plus a spare battery will easily fit in a backpack.

My favourite feature on it has to be the di2 rear derailleur. Gear changes are just so crisp and precise. And fits in nicely with the Shimano motor etc.

Comments above about weight are correct - it seems to be heavier than some other brands. My XL is close to 25kg with battery and still running with stock tyres & tubes. (I've changed pedals, bars, grips & saddle, but probably similar weight to originals).

See what you think after some demos

Mark
Cheers for that,i was hoping a member owned a Lapierre to give honest opinion.As i said previously a short test demo doesn't tell a full story.I must confess the Overvolt 927 is still currently top of my list.

 

[Wiltshire Warrior]

All of the 2019 bikes are "the same" as 2018 bikes so my advice to get a 2018 bike with 40-50% discount. and by "the same" I mean no radical improvements just simple changes and the usual flimsy "normal" MTB kit, and we are a few years away from better batteries and motors.

 

[nickw1965]

All of the 2019 bikes are "the same" as 2018 bikes so my advice to get a 2018 bike with 40-50% discount. and by "the same" I mean no radical improvements just simple changes and the usual flimsy "normal" MTB kit, and we are a few years away from better batteries and motors.

I couldn't agree more. I fully intend to cash in on sale prices for this years models.My game plan is to get 3 years riding then trade in, giving the industry a chance to progress with new technology.

 

[Wiltshire Warrior]

Review of the differences between the Bosch and Steps Lapierre bikes here

I have ridden Steps, Yam, Bosch and Brose. I find the Bosch the least natural feeling and it has lag.

I don't think 2kg makes much difference when the bike is moving, so although the 2019 levo is 21.5kg in a medium the LP is 24kg in large, not much difference when the bike is moving.

This is you first ebike, whatever you get you will like. They are awesome!

I agree - if you want to carray a spare battery that will be 2KG.

 

[Lazy Biker 84]

As people have touched upon on here before, its all down to what youre going to be using it for and how aggressive youre going to be on it. I went for a 2018 Levo Comp for trails and adventures. I already own a carbon road bike so couldn't justify the extra expense on my MTB. To be honest, I don't regret it at all, it does everything I want it to do and with ease.

When choosing my bike I went for:
Bike capabilities
Looks
Battery
Noise
in that order too, I weight next to nothing so I struggle to deplete my battery even when I try to.
The bike has to look as stealth as possible and at the time the Levo/Kenevo was the most subtle e bike out there, the battery bolted onto the frame doesn't do it for me one bit.
The comp comes with a dropper post which is ideal for what I get up to and with 150mm suspension travel, I don't need more.
Ive heard from a few people that the latest Levo is considerably louder than the 2018 model, noisy bikes aren't for me.
I paid £4250 for this bike, I saw it the other day for £3400, an absolute bargain for what you get. Hope this helps.