Back in August, German bike brand Propain unleashed the Ekano 2 AL electric mountain bike. The aluminum-framed all-mountain/enduro e-bike impressed with its long-travel suspension and upmarket componentry, however, it seems that Propain has outdone itself with the launch of the Ekano 2 CF. As the name suggests, it ditches the aluminum frame for a lighter carbon one, and also packs a few changes beneath the surface.
To start with, the Propain Ekano 2 CF is marketed as a performance-focused electric mountain bike for use on both trails and bike parks. It holds an ASTM Category 5 classification which means it’s suitable for “extreme jumping” and downhill riding on rugged terrain. In order to achieve this rating, the carbon fiber frame has been designed for maximum rigidity without compromising durability. On top of that, it boasts 180-millimeter suspension travel up front, as well as 170 millimeters of rear wheel travel. Out of the box, the new model comes with 29-inch wheels, but riders have the option of swapping out the rear wheel for a 27.5-inch unit.
On the technology side of the equation, the Propain Ekano 2 CF joins the growing list of top-tier e-MTBs to be powered by the all-new Sram Eagle Powertrain. Developed jointly with German e-bike systems specialist Brose, the Eagle Powertrain flaunts 90 Newton-meters of torque, and a peak power output of 680 watts. It offers two pedal assist modes – range and rally – as well as a convenient push mode for urban settings. On top of that, it’s compatible with the Sram Transmission AXS group set for automated electronic shifting.
As for the battery, the Ekano 2 CF is equipped with a 630-watt-hour main battery, as well as a 250-watt-hour range extender for a total capacity of 880 watt-hours. It’s worth noting that Propain doesn’t mention estimated range figures as these can vary greatly on a multitude of factors.
Propain offers the Ekano 2 CF in multiple build configurations to suit various budgets. The base model is equipped with a Rockshox ZEB Base fork, as well as a Rockshox Super Deluxe Coil Select shock for suspension. Its drivetrain is the Sram GX Eagle Transmission, and it’ll set you back $7,794. Meanwhile, the Ekano 2 CF Ultimate gets the Rockshox ZEB Ultimate Fork, as well as the RockShox Vivid Ultimate Shock. It also has a better drivetrain consisting of the Sram XO Eagle, but of course, commands a premium price of $9,999.
For those looking for the very best, the Ekano 2 CF Factory will fit the bill. It’s rocking Fox Factory suspension with a 38 Factory fork and a DHX2 Coil shock at the rear. It also flaunts the Sram XX Eagle Transmission, as well as a myriad of other top-tier equipment. It retails for a steep $11,299.
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