Review

E-Mountainbike Grouptest: Haibike XDURO AMT RX 27,5 Review

10.09.2014
by

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First impressions

At 4,299 €, the XDURO AMT RX 27.5 is the entry-level machine in the multiple award-winning, XDURO full-suspension e-mountainbike range from the Schweinfurt manufacturer. Not exactly a bargain, but Haibike wants to win us over with innovative details and outstanding performance, not price. Could the bike live up to the high expectations of the test crew?

The Haibike is available for 4.299 EUR.
The Haibike is available for 4.299 EUR.

Specification

Price-wise the AMT RX 27.5 lies in the mid to upper range of our test group. It offers a well-chosen spec which leaves no wishes unanswered. Haibike selected proven suspension parts from the U.S. manufacturer Fox. At the front a Fox 32 TALAS handles bumps with 120mm – 150 mm of variable travel, and at the back end a Fox FLOAT CTD shock serves up 140mm travel. Shimano deals with braking and shifting duties with a mix of Deore SLX/XT parts. DT Swiss wheels and house-branded finishing kit such as bars and stem round up the spec. Only the Crankbrothers Kronolog dropper post had us worried due to previous (negative) experiences. However, this proved unfounded during the entire test period. Power is supplied by the Bosch Performance center-mounted motor.

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Handling

So much for the spec: the real highlight is the innovative frame and numerous clever details. The Bosch mid-motor is fitted with a replaceable composite protective cover. Via a neat chainguard/roller level with the main pivot, the Haibike engineers have managed to integrate the bulky Bosch unit into the frame in a way that allows for a perfect chainline, an efficient rear suspension system, and above all very short 465mm chainstays. It is an aesthetically pleasing and above all very innovative solution.

With a central but slightly compact position, we hit the trails. The Haibike proves to be agile, playful, yet completely balanced – aided and abetted by the short 1,161 mm wheelbase and comparatively short 465mm rear end. The 68° head angle plays a part in the sprightly nature of the XDURO AMT. In high-speed sections the planted suspension and low center of gravity offer a pleasant stability and balance. Jumps, tight sections and fast line changes are the favourite territory of the Haibike. On steep, demanding trails we would prefer a slightly slacker front end, which would create more stable steering and greater confidence.

The chassis feels very harmonious, as both front and rear suspension are quite linear and able to absorb both the smallest of impacts as well as big hits.

Flawless. Our initial scepticism regarding the Crankbrothers Kronolog seatpost proved unfounded, as it performed flawlessly throughout the test.
Flawless. Our initial scepticism regarding the Crankbrothers Kronolog seatpost proved unfounded, as it performed flawlessly throughout the test.
Clean. On the Haibike AMT RX gear cables and the rear brake line are routed internally through the top tube to their respective destinations.
Clean. On the Haibike AMT RX gear cables and the rear brake line are routed internally through the top tube to their respective destinations.
Under fire. The open rear end design exposes the rear shock to dirt and muck flying off the rear wheel. A mini-mudguard would be appreciated.
Under fire. The open rear end design exposes the rear shock to dirt and muck flying off the rear wheel. A mini-mudguard would be appreciated.
Innovative. Thanks to a small roller with integrated chainguard, the chain is further tensioned and shorter chainstays can be used thanks to the different pivot point.
Innovative. Thanks to a small roller with integrated chainguard, the chain is further tensioned and shorter chainstays can be used thanks to the different pivot point.

Conclusion

In summary, the Haibike XDURO AMT RX 27.5 is a highly developed trailbike with neat solutions and outstanding handling, both for the beginner and ambitious riders. With this bike, you will be happy! Those seeking a high-end spec should go for the “Big Brother“ AMT PRO 27.5.

Go back to the article: E-Mountainbike Grouptest: Ten E-Mountainbikes

You can read an in-depth feature about the E-Mountainbike test and our conclusions in the E-Mountainbike issue #001! It’s free & only digital for iPad, Online-Viewer, as well as soon on Android: Issue #001.

Text: Christoph Bayer / Robin Schmitt Photo: Christoph Bayer

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