FINAL VERDICT

Afrom a short reach the geometry is sorted though, and the kit lets you get the most from the extra DH runs a motor buys you. Specialized’s Turbo Levo was the grower of the test. It came to us under a cloud from previous reviews but the latest firmware has transformed the powered performance and app-tuned potential. Its ‘e-bike-ness’ is unobtrusive, and the handling and parts mean the extra mass isn’t an issue.

Right from pressing the big blue button, triggering through the modes and feeling how well synced the Shimano motor is, the Focus was ahead, though. We outran the tyres and cockpit, but that’s only because the suspension and handling are so good that we were riding it like a DH bike. As a versatile, user-friendly trail all-rounder, it’s in a class of its own here. s well as a ton of riding, we’ve done a lot of learning getting this test sorted. It’s clear that there’s still a lot of development to be done with e-bikes. Some are definitely closer to being well sorted, well-worth-buying machines than others though. In the case of both Haibike and KTM, we think you’d be better off choosing longer-travel models from their ranges. Once you’re past 20kg a few 100g more doesn’t really matter, and the shape and equipment of their bikes here just aren’t up to controlling the extra mass. Cube at least fit sturdier equipment where it matters, but the Stereo Hybrid’s frame and cockpit are still shaped to cruise, not command.

The Scott E-Genius has an odd handling balance and its multi-mode suspension isn’t needed. Apart