Silenzio automatico! Abbiamo provato la PROPAIN Ekano 2 CF con motore SRAM e cambio automatico

If we were to rely on specs alone, Propain would have introduced an EMTB that sets new standards in terms of technology and performance. But what's the reality? Could we not have tried it? To be honest, being an online brand with in-store support, it's not easy to try one of these bikes. Fortunately, at the Enduro World Series in Finale Ligure, Propain was present with their SRAM-powered e-bike, the Ekano 2, and we were able to spend some quality time with it. Let's be clear: there aren't many e-bikes with SRAM motors on the market right now. We're in a transition phase, and more brands need to join forces so the mass market can benefit. What makes the EKANO 2 special? Could we mention the carbon frame, the all-SRAM gear kit and motor, or the possible battery extender? There's also the mullet wheel setup and the high-end 170mm RockShox suspension. But what's most important is how it all works together! This bike has autoshift; the derailleur and motor work together and know what's happening. The key to this is the six-point sensor on the rear wheel and the SRAM T-Type shifting system, which can shift gears under load. These components communicate with the motor, which then, based on the rider's speed and other factors, can automatically shift up or down (without pedaling). Brilliant! Bikes can be ordered online at super competitive prices, and in Italy, dealers will provide setup and after-sales support. SPECIFICATIONS: Frame - Full Carbon 160mm Rear Fork - ZEB Ultimate Shock - Vivid Ultimate Wheels - Newman Evolution Motor - SRAM Motor 90 NM 250W Battery - SRAM 630 Wh Derailleur - SRAM XO Eagle 12-speed T-Type Brakes - SRAM Code RSC Price - €9,999 (tested) (Base price and €7,794) Seat Post - Rockshox Reverb Wireless On the Trail This is the third bike with autoshift we've had the opportunity to test, and the management software is getting better! Uphill: It calculates the speed and climbing angle, plus the rider's pedal torque, and specifies a gear based on the rider's cadence setting from -3 to +3. We found it to be accurate 80-90 percent of the time, and we only had to intervene a few times. Downhill: Based on the rider's speed, the system selects the correct gear for a given cadence, and even if the rider isn't pedaling, the motor can accelerate and select the gear. So, when you pedal, the bike is in the right gear. It also allows the rider to select a set gear to maintain balance in the saddle, rather than pedaling to shift gears, only when necessary. Very clever. Other components of the bike, including the suspension (which performed well) and the wheels, gave us confidence and comfort on some very difficult trails. The 630 Wh battery life is good and can be increased with an extender, which we didn't use. You can also adjust the motor with an app to increase power or range accordingly. The most notable riding sensation during our first ride was how neutral the bike was in some difficult trail conditions and also completely silent even on rough terrain. Conclusion During our first ride, we found the Ekano 2 to be a very interesting bike. We love the power and silence of the SRAM system. Autoshift is a feature that can be disabled, but we didn't disable it and found it to be effective 80-90 percent of the time, which, considering the system can't see the trail ahead, is impressive. Manual override is only necessary if you change your mind or if the trail presents very specific conditions that a human can see but a machine can't. This system, combined with the good, neutral ride geometry in challenging conditions, offers an ideal EMTB for the avid cyclist, and considering the prices for this high-end model are very reasonable compared to the competition. Featured by Alex Boyce. Find your used bike: https://www.moto.it/moto-usate IG:   / motoit   FB:   / moto.it   Telegram: https://t.me/+SI91PIKXQSLJtnRw