RUSSELL’ S CANNON DALE HABIT NEO 1£7,000

Snapper Russell is excited to push the limits of the new Bosch motor

No longer the quirky outlier, e-bikes have now been around long enough to establish themselves a niche. The technology is still constantly evolving though, which makes for some interesting comparisons between bikes.

Take the fourth-generation Bosch Performance Line CX drive unit used on my new Cannondale, for example. Earlier iterations of this motor did eventually – through long-term testing and with many varied riding miles under the wheels – reveal some shortcomings in terms of size and construction. With this new long-term bike, I’m keen to see what the latest version can deliver. Weighing in at 2.9kg and half the size of previous models, the Gen 4 motor promises faster acceleration, smoother power transfer and improved control and handling via four modes (Eco, Tour, Turbo and eMTB).

The 625W battery is integrated into the frame and protected by a skid plate, which covers both battery and motor. Designed to drain and prevent mud from clogging it up, I’m looking forward to seeing how it copes with the challenge of UK trails in winter.

It’s not all about the motor, of course. The Habit Neo 1 promises some lively rides with its RockShox Pike fork and Deluxe Ultimate shock, beefed-up Magura braking and 12-speed SRAM Eagle drivetrain. It’s not just a mountain bike with a motor, but a bike built around the different needs of e-biking. I’m looking forward to having some fun on this one! www.cannondale.com