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Full carbon frames, Fox suspension, plenty of travel and modern geometries: Cube and Rose pull out all the stops with their two latest e-mountainbikes - and at a fair price. We wanted to find out whether the two bikes, which cost just under €6,000, can withstand sporty off-road rides and which E-Enduro can really impress on the trail.
Motors and batteries for E-Enduros
Industry giant Cube and direct mail order company Rose are taking the same approach for the time being. With the Bosch Performance CX (tested here) the bikes rely on a tried and tested drive. The carbon chassis is designed to keep the weight low and the battery is firmly installed in the down tube. A further step in terms of lightweight construction. On both bikes, the riding characteristics on the trail clearly take precedence over suitability for everyday use.
Cube goes one step further: 600 watt hours must be enough, there is no option for the larger 800 watt battery, which saves another 900 grams. The result is impressive: At 21.7 kilos, the AMS 177 TM is one of the lightest CX bikes we have ever measured in the test lab. And that with thick Fox suspension elements, really robust tyres and 170 mm travel. An extremely strong value that you won't find anywhere else at this price.
Sturdy and durable: the equipment
Rose doesn't cut corners with the Slab Plus either, the equipment is more than on a par. However, at exactly 24 kilos, the enduro bike from Bocholt is significantly heavier. But here too, a comparison with the competition shows that many other e-enduro bikes with a large battery are significantly heavier. In terms of equipment, both manufacturers are going full enduro. Identical forks, identical shocks, gravity tyres at the rear. Nothing is missing here.
But in terms of quality, the Bocholt-based mail-order company is even better than the Cube - at a price that is 100 euros cheaper. The electronic Shimano XT Di2 shifts wirelessly and even enables automatic gear changes and shifting while rolling. However, the mechanical Sram transmission on the Cube delivers smoother shifting, especially under load. The Slab Plus scores points with its larger battery and greater range.
Major differences in the terrain
Clear characters are already apparent when you sit on the bike. The steep seat angle of the Rose Slab Plus places the rider far forward on the bike. Despite the long reach, the seat is compact. The Cube, on the other hand, is classic and extremely balanced.
This is more comfortable on flat terrain, as you have a more balanced pressure distribution. On steep climbs, on the other hand, the progressive position of the Rose scores points. With a lot of pressure on the front, you always stay in control of the bike, even in tricky key sections. The front of the AMS can get light, which requires a more active riding style.
This picture continues downhill. With its very fluffy suspension and smooth geometry, the Slab Plus is a real haven of peace on rough downhills. Although it nominally has less rear suspension, it feels more forgiving. However, it rides less defined and much more sedate.
The new 177, on the other hand, has a decidedly fun and lively character that invites you to play even on less extreme descents. The more defined chassis, the significantly lower weight, the small rear wheel and the lower centre of gravity make a clear difference in character. However, both candidates have true enduro genes. Tough trails and steep switchbacks? You can get down to business at the wheel of these bikes.
The BIKE rating
BIKE Conclusion
As similar as the two bikes are at first glance, their strengths and weaknesses are very different. Cubes AMS 177* shines with driving pleasure and handling, while the Rose Slab Plus* insists on comfort and riding safety. For sporty trail and enduro bikers, the lightweight Cube offers the more versatile package. Both E-Enduros deliver true enduro qualities at a fair price. - Florentin Vesenbeckh, Test Editor BIKE Magazine
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
