Kona’s Libre EL
Kona’s Libre EL eGravel Bike is Designed to Take Riders One Step Farther
Designed as a no-holds-barred e-gravel bike, Kona’s Libre EL features an impressive blend of capable pedal assist power and confidence-inspiring components to really push what is possible on a 700c/650b drop bar bicycle.
Putting this e-bike to the test in the infamous Squamish, British Columbia, amidst the mountainous terrain and technical forest roads, really shed light on where this machine excels and the benefits that an e-gravel bike has to offer.
Right from the get-go, my initial impression was just how comfortable the rider position felt. With a 398mm reach and a 71-degree head angle on the 54cm frame, the aluminumbutted frame delivered a noticeably solid balance between being upright enough to feel confident on super steep terrain and still optimal for both flat roads and gravel climbs. If anything, it felt more towards the former, which was greatly appreciated at high speeds and adventuring into some easy singletracks when they popped up on the side of the road.
In looking at the bike’s ability to go up, the Shimano STEPS E7000 drive unit with 60Nm of torque definitely provided all the power needed to have a ton of fun. Topping out at a substantial 32kph, I was truly blown away by how far and fast the system helped me ride. With four pedal-assist modes to choose from, it was pretty amazing to be able to “pick your ride” and level of effort, depending on how you were feeling or what you wanted to do that day. The 504Wh Shimano battery lasted 2-4 hours depending on how it was used, which was generally more than enough needed, and it was super easy to adjust with the heads-up display unit.
At 5’10”, I was riding a 54cm, and I loved just how snappy this bike felt underneath me thanks to the Libre EL’s 650b wheel setup. Featuring fairly wide 650bx47mm WTB Venture tires, I experienced a great amount of cornering confidence, stability, and suppleness which was hugely appreciated when pointing the bike downwards. Considering
it also comes with a TranzX dropper seatpost and the smaller wheel size, it is no doubt that Kona designed this bike to match the fun and capable feeling on the uphills with the same feeling for the downs — they definitely nailed it.
The bigger gearing courtesy of the 11-42 cassette was appreciated on really steep terrain, and at no point did I feel limited by the Libre EL’s 11-speed Shimano GRX drivetrain. The only downside was the weight when riding over the 32kph limit of assist from the E7000 motor, but this is to be expected with most e-bikes. Still, those occasions were few and far between, and they were easily eclipsed by the massive allround benefits of the added power.
What I found most interesting about this e-bike was its ability to explore places that would otherwise be hard, if not impossible, to reach. Yes, the Libre EL does live up to the
“go farther and faster” e-bike mantra, which was especially true on mountainous terrain. I was able to get up steeper and more technical forest roads than I ever had, and I was able to access the alpine like never before, which was pretty unbelievable and satisfying.
All in all, Libre EL checks all the boxes for those looking for the best possible machine to get you off the beaten path and onto your next adventure. With the power ranging from all-day support to some extra kick to get you up a steep climb, it’s definitely a worthy consideration for the gravel rider looking for a versatile steed to help them go one step farther. The SRP is $5,799. www.konaworld.com.