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Moterra 3 e-bike from CannondaleHow the "snapper" performs in the test

Florentin Vesenbeckh

 · 04.10.2025

The Cannondale Moterra 3 weighs 26.9 kilos and costs 5899 euros.
Photo: Max Fuchs
Cannondale is not necessarily known for its low prices. However, the new E-MTB Moterra 3 shows that the Americans can also impress outside the premium category. The BIKE test reveals what the new e-bike can do off-road and on tours.
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The Cannondale Moterra 3 comes as an aluminium version with a proven Bosch Performance CX motor and a large 800 Wh battery. The technical data alone shows this: The Moterra is no lightweight. At around 27 kilograms, it weighs a little more than most comparable e-MTBs in this category and price range. Nevertheless, it puts this generous weight to good use in terms of off-road capability and robustness.

This test was conducted as part of a duel with the Canyon Neuron:On AL 9. Two new e-mountainbikes under 6000 euros put to the test. The other articles in this series can be found directly here in the links:

>> The Canyon Neuron:On AL 9 for 5499 euros: Comfortable supertourer out of the shipping box

>> E-bike duel: How the Moterra 3 compares with the Canyon Neuron:On AL 9

The Cannondale Moterra 3 weighs 26.9 kilos and costs 5899 euros.Photo: Max FuchsThe Cannondale Moterra 3 weighs 26.9 kilos and costs 5899 euros.

>> All info: The new Cannondale Moterra with carbon chassis

>> Full on downhill: The Cannondale Moterra LT on test

Equipment, engine and details

The robust aluminium frame has an integrated battery mount for classic battery removal and the Proportional Response rear triangle provides 150 mm of suspension travel. It is powered by the powerful Bosch Performance Line CX motor, with a full 100 Nm of torque on request. The Swabian power is supplied by a large 800 Wh battery, which can be optionally extended with a range extender.

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>> To the test of the Bosch Performance CX

>> More power thanks to software update: The Bosch Performance CX

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Proven and good: The Bosch Performance CX.Photo: Max FuchsProven and good: The Bosch Performance CX.The thick Powertube 800 is secured with a lock and can be easily folded out to the front.Photo: Max FuchsThe thick Powertube 800 is secured with a lock and can be easily folded out to the front.The Bosch system is operated using the Purion 200 on the handlebars. There is optional space for the system controller in the top tube.Photo: Max FuchsThe Bosch system is operated using the Purion 200 on the handlebars. There is optional space for the system controller in the top tube.

A RockShox Psylo Silver RC with 160 mm travel works at the front, while a RockShox Deluxe Select air shock is fitted at the rear. Deceleration is provided by inexpensive but powerful 4-piston disc brakes from Shimano (MT520) with large 203 mm discs, while Continental Kryptotal tyres on WTB ST i30 rims provide traction. The Shimano CUES U6000 LinkGlide with eleven gears takes care of the drivetrain - robust and reliable, albeit less spectacular than its electronic competitors. Overall, the Moterra 3 presents itself as an all-terrain, confident E-Fully with a focus on durability and reserves.

Shimano's Cues with Linkglide only provides 11 gears - but is said to be more robust and durable.Photo: Max FuchsShimano's Cues with Linkglide only provides 11 gears - but is said to be more robust and durable.Inexpensive and yet good: The Shimano Deore stoppers with a defined pressure point and large brake discs.Photo: Max FuchsInexpensive and yet good: The Shimano Deore stoppers with a defined pressure point and large brake discs.

The most important components of the Cannondale Moterra 3

  • Fork / Shock: Rockshox Psylo Silver / Deluxe Select
  • Gear system: Shimano Cues, 11-speed
  • Brakes: Shimano MT 520 220/203 mm
  • Wheels: Shimano hubs, WTB ST i30 rims
  • Tyres: Continental Kryptotal Fr / Re Enduro Soft, 29 x 2.4
  • Telescopic post: Cannondale Downlow / 200 mm
The cables run integrated through the headset into the frame. This creates a tidy cockpit, but makes some service work more difficult.Photo: Max FuchsThe cables run integrated through the headset into the frame. This creates a tidy cockpit, but makes some service work more difficult.

Advantages and disadvantages of the individual components

On the equipment side, the powerful Shimano brakes and the Continental tyre combination, which build up a lot of grip and confidence, were particularly pleasing in the test. Another big plus point: Cannondale offers a lifetime warranty on the frame and allows a very high weight allowance - a vote of confidence in the durability. The Psylo Silver suspension fork, on the other hand, is a weak point. While the rear works extremely well and easily absorbs rough impacts, the front noticeably limits the bike's potential.

The affordable Psylo Silver from Rockshox can't keep up with the powerful rear suspension of the Moterra 3.Photo: Max FuchsThe affordable Psylo Silver from Rockshox can't keep up with the powerful rear suspension of the Moterra 3.The well-damping and very grippy Conti tyres with enduro carcass are a positive feature.Photo: Max FuchsThe well-damping and very grippy Conti tyres with enduro carcass are a positive feature.

More info on the Cannondale Moterra 3

  • Motor: Bosch Perf. CX, 100 Nm max. torque
  • Battery: 800 Wh (removable)
  • Frame material: aluminium
  • Suspension travel: 160/150 mm
  • Wheel size: 29 inch
  • Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
  • Price: 5899 Euro
  • Weight: 26.9 kg (test bike in size L, BIKE measurement)
  • Max. System weight: 150 kg
  • Guarantee: for life on the frame
Suitable for everyday use: The Cannondale Moterra 3 has mounting points for a solid kickstand.Photo: Max FuchsSuitable for everyday use: The Cannondale Moterra 3 has mounting points for a solid kickstand.

Geometry data from the BIKE lab

The geometry data was determined in the BIKE test lab for the Cannondale Moterra 3 in size L.Photo: BIKE MagazinThe geometry data was determined in the BIKE test lab for the Cannondale Moterra 3 in size L.

Riding impression and seating position

The Moterra shows its class on the climbs. The steep seat angle brings the rider far forwards, the front wheel stays firmly on the ground even on difficult ramps. The traction on the rear wheel is excellent, even in key sections the bike doesn't lose its composure. Only at very slow speeds and in tight bends do you notice the length and high weight of the bike somewhat negatively. But all in all, the aluminium Moterra shines as an outstanding climber.

Difficult uphills become a playground with the Cannondale Moterra 3.Photo: Max FuchsDifficult uphills become a playground with the Cannondale Moterra 3.

The Moterra also conveys a great deal of confidence on descents. The smooth geometry and progressive rear triangle make it the ideal partner for difficult terrain. On fast descents, it feels really plush and secure, the rear end generates a lot of traction and swallows the occasional misplaced landing without any problems. The reserves are considerable for a touring eMTB. The biggest weak point is the cheap Psylo suspension fork, which can't keep up with the rear end. On flat trails and tight corners, you can feel the high weight: playful manoeuvres are not the Cannondale Moterra 3's strong point.

The Cannondale Moterra 3 gives you plenty of confidence. However, playful manoeuvres are not the bike's strong point.Photo: Max FuchsThe Cannondale Moterra 3 gives you plenty of confidence. However, playful manoeuvres are not the bike's strong point.

The Cannondale Moterra 3 in the BIKE review

Seating position, reach height and serviceability of the Cannondale Moterra 3. Reach height determined during test rides on asphalt with a gradient of 12.2 per cent. Highest support level, 150 watts of rider power, rider weight 90 kg.Photo: BIKE MagazinSeating position, reach height and serviceability of the Cannondale Moterra 3. Reach height determined during test rides on asphalt with a gradient of 12.2 per cent. Highest support level, 150 watts of rider power, rider weight 90 kg.

Plus points

  • potent rear suspension
  • Smooth running
  • powerful uphill and downhill
  • Long range with super motor

Weak points

  • Very heavy
  • Limited suspension fork
  • somewhat sluggish
Character of the Cannondale Moterra 3.Photo: BIKE MagazinCharacter of the Cannondale Moterra 3.The BIKE Note of the Cannondale Moterra 3.Photo: BIKE MagazinThe BIKE Note of the Cannondale Moterra 3.

BIKE Conclusion on the Cannondale Moterra 3

Despite its favourable spec, the Cannondale Moterra 3 is convincing in tough off-road use. Its reserves in the chassis and its confidence on the mountain give confidence, even if the weight and equipment do not deliver the sportiest values. If you are looking for a robust, durable and powerful E-Fully, you will find it here. - Florentin Vesenbeckh, Deputy Editor-in-Chief BIKE Magazine
Florentin Vesenbeckh is deputy editor-in-chief at BIKE Magazine.Photo: Max FuchsFlorentin Vesenbeckh is deputy editor-in-chief at BIKE Magazine.

Florentin Vesenbeckh

Florentin Vesenbeckh has been on a mountain bike since he was ten years old. Even on his very first tour, he focussed on single trails - and even after more than 30 years in the saddle of an MTB, these are still the quintessence of biking for him. He spent his youth competing in various bike disciplines and later his cycling career was characterised by years as a riding technique coach. Professionally, the experienced test editor now focusses on e-mountainbikes. In recent years, the qualified sports scientist and trained journalist has tested over 300 bikes and more than 40 different motor systems in the laboratory and in practice.

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