Fire threatens one of cyclings most emblematic backdrops. The restaurant L'Arbre, located beside the legendary cobbled sector of Carrefour de l'Arbre on the ParisRoubaix route, suffered a blaze on Monday afternoon that has sparked deep concern among fans and followers of the sport. According to...

Theres no shortage of new eMTBs using the powerful new Avinox drive systems, and Rotwild is adding another to the list with its new R.XX model. Designed to be more active, agile, and lightweight than the brands R.EX and R.EXC e-enduro models, the R.XX is aimed at trail and all-mountain riders seeking a livelier, versatile ride. With 145/160mm of travel, Polydyamic Carbon frames, up-to-date geometry, and the latest eMTB technology, the R.XX is a unique-looking new model from the smaller German brand.Rotwild is officially launching the R.XX today at Eurobike. Lets see what its all about.Rotwild R.XX DetailsRotwild says the R.XX is engineered for flow with maximum lightness, active ride feel, and full power. With this more trail-oriented platform, the brand says the focus was on agility, efficiency, and versatility, as opposed to the maximum downhill performance of its e-enduro models.Focus on WeightOne of the main priorities in its design was to keep the weight as low as possible. To do so, Rotwild says it uses extremely high-quality carbon manufacturing for the frame, sticking to its Polydynamic Carbon design and production principle. The brands engineers are striving for continuous improvement in their carbon tech, materials, and build quality.In the case of the R.XX, they chose 1,100-fiber UD-grade carbon, which is apparently the highest grade available in cycling. They claim their carbon layup with large, continuous inlays reduces stress points and minimizes resin content, resulting in tight tolerances, smooth finishes inside and out, low weight, and high stiffness.Piggybacking on that, Rotwild made the conscious design choice to have a fixed battery it can still be removed through the motor area so that the downtube could be uninterrupted. Because, as Rotwild puts it, a closed tube is both stable and can be built light. The unique cutout in the top tube is another such functional design choice, to create enough room for piggyback shocks and full-sized water bottles to fit together in the frame.Rotwild says the R.XXs construction and design result in a complete bike weight of around 20 kilograms (44 lbs.), which is very competitive for a full-power eMTB with a 700Wh battery.Suspension Travel and Frame DetailsThe R.XX frame gets 145mm of rear wheel travel paired with a 160mm fork. The unique suspension design uses what appears to be a modified four-bar layout with an elevated chainstay/swingarm and a mid-pivot location above the bottom bracket. Its eye-catching to say the least.Rotwild says the suspension kinematics are trail-tuned for a livelier feel. They say the lower initial leverage ratio results in less sag off the top, a firmer baseline feel, and a more active ride. The bike gives you more trail feedback, reacts more directly to your inputs, and begs you to push hard through berms, rollers, and jumps.The R.XX comes in five frame sizes, with the M/L, L, and XL sizes rolling on 29 wheels front and rear. The S and M frames come with a mullet setup and a 27.5 rear wheel. All models and sizes include EightPins integrated adjustable length dropper posts with up to 240mm of drop. The frame has 12 x 248mm Boost rear axle spacing, standard internal cable routing, and one bottle mount with room for a full-sized water bottle in the front triangle.GeometryAs mentioned above, the R.XX comes in five frame sizes. Rotwild says they added the M/L size because analysis of rider height distribution puts many riders between the traditional M and L sizes. The M/L solves that problem, while making it easier for more riders to find a better frame fit.Geometry-wise, the R.XX aligns with modern standards and its trail/all-mountain-oriented intended use. Key figures shared by all sizes include the 64 head tube angle, 77 seat tube angle, and 345mm bottom bracket height. Reach measurements start at 430mm on the Small, and extend to 520mm on the XL, with the middle M/L frame coming in at 475mm.Rotwild chose size-specific chainstay lengths for proportionality, starting at 430mm and increasing in 5mm and 7.5mm increments up to 460mm on the XL. Check out the chart below for the rest of the geometry details.Avinox Drive SystemsLike dozens of other eMTBs launched in the past few months, the Rotwild R.XX is equipped with the latest Avinox drive systems. Three of the four models come with the more powerful M2S motor, while the CORE model gets the slightly less powerful M2. These are the most powerful eMTB motors currently on the market. Heres a quick rundown of their power specs.Avinox M2S: 1,300W and 130Nm continuous, 1,500W and 150Nm Boost ModeAvinox M2: 1,100W and 110Nm continuous, 125Nm Boost ModeAs mentioned above, Rotwild chose fixed 700Wh batteries to reduce both frame and battery weight. All models come with the 12A fast charger, except the CORE, which comes with the standard 4A charger. Avinoxs 2 OLED top-tube integrated display makes it easy to see ride info at a glance, with the handlebar-mounted remote to switch between assist modes.Rotwild R.XX: Builds and PricingRotwild R.XX Core: 8,490Motor: Avinox M2Fork: FOX 36 Float Rhythm, 160mmShock: FOX Float X PerformanceDrivetrain: SRAM Eagle 90 T-TypeBrakes: SRAM Motive Bronze 4-piston w/ 200mm HS2 rotorsWheels: Newman BeskarTires: Schwalbe Albert Evo Radial Trail, Soft, 2.5, front and rearDropper: 8Pins H01, up to 200mm (XL)Color: Bloodfin RedR.XX CoreRotwild R.XX Pro: 9,990Motor: Avinox M2SFork: FOX 36 Float Performance, 160mmShock: FOX Float X PerformanceDrivetrain: SRAM GX AXS TransmissionBrakes: SRAM Motive Bronze 4-piston w/ 200mm HS2 rotorsWheels: Newman Phase carbonTires: Schwalbe Albert Evo Radial Trail, Soft, 2.5, front and rearDropper: 8Pins NGS3.0, up to 240mm (XL)Color: Bloodfin RedR.XX ProRotwild R.XX Ultra: 11,990Motor: Avinox M2SFork: FOX 36 Float Factory, 160mmShock: FOX Float X FactoryDrivetrain: SRAM XO AXS TransmissionBrakes: SRAM Motive Silver 4-piston w/ 200mm HS2 rotorsWheels: Newman Phase CarbonTires: Schwalbe Albert Evo Radial Trail, Soft, 2.5, front and rearDropper: 8Pins NGS3.0, up to 240mm (XL)Color: Bloodfin RedR.XX UltraRotwild R.XX Ultimate: 13,490Motor: Avinox M2SFork: FOX 36 Float Factory, 160mmShock: FOX Float X FactoryDrivetrain: SRAM XX AXS TransmissionBrakes: SRAM Motive Ultimate Carbon 4-piston w/ 200mm HS2 rotorsWheels: Newman Phase CarbonTires: Schwalbe Albert Evo Radial Trail, Soft, 2.5, front and rearDropper: 8Pins NGS3.0, up to 240mm (XL)Color: Lava OrangeAvailabilityRotwilds new R.XX eMTB officially launches today at Eurobike. Head to the Rotwild website to learn more, see complete specs, or check availability in your region.rotwild.comThe post Rotwild Expands its Lineup with the New Avinox-Powered, Trail-Oriented R.XX eMTB appeared first on Bikerumor.

We heard rumors that the next new Avinox ebike motor was going to be even more advanced than their recent gen 2 power upgrade, and the MG Concept motor gearbox certainly doesnt disappoint. Ive been enamored by the potential for combining ebike power and drivetrain into a single smart unit since Pinion debuted their MGU, coming from their gearbox expertise side. Now, Avinox builds on the DJI lightweight, power-dense motor background to solve the same issue why not combine gearing and electric motor support into a single smart ebike powertrain system!Avinox MG Concept combined ebike motor and gearboxAvinox made their name very quickly in the ebike segment combining almost unparalleled power & torque, light total system weight, a natural (if sometimes overpowered) ride feel that the end user could easily customize to their desired experience, and smart connectivity. Now, their MG Concept takes it a step further, combining that same ebike motor power with an integrated gearbox offering the same 520% gearing range as SRAMs leading Eagle transmissions. Plus, the user can pick the number of intermediate gearing steps that they prefer, thanks to what Avinox describes as an infinitely variable transmission inside.All that, and it fits in a case thats not much bigger than Avinoxs motor-only solution.What do we know?What we know about the MG Concept at the moment is very vague. Avinox has not yet shared an official press kit, nor have they answered all of our more technical questions about the new combined ebike motor and gearbox powertrain system. But their top-level features are outlined in the display at the center of their booth.Tech DetailsNatural ride feel is a hallmark or the more premium and refined ebike drive systems on the market. The Avinox MG Concept graphics suggests better torque smoothing of rider input vs. the competition.Since one unit is managing shifts and power, the MG Concept promises much faster shifts, so changing gears feel smoother and more seamless than conventional derailleur drivetrains.Avinox wouldnt confirm if the MG Concept used a continuously variable transmission (CVT) inside, but did explain that riders could customize how many gearing steps they preferred singling out options like 4 or 13 gears evenly dividing up the wide 520% gearing range. The did explain that the motor gearbox did not require any special internal belts that could wear out, suggesting some other solution than a traditional CVT.Low maintenance is a key concept of the Avinox MG Concept. By replacing external derailleurs and cassettes, you keep a more efficient, more durable straight chainline. But also, a combined ebike motor and gearbox keeps all the critical drivetrain components inside protected from outside contaminant, in a reliable oil bath for smooth, long-term operation.Plus, combing shifting and pedal-assist in one allows for advanced smart functioning like mechanical security locking mechanisms, the possibility of e-assist reverse gears for backing up, and smart internal speed & power sensors. Plus, Avinox claims some form of regenerative energy capture while descending to extend battery life, possibly from regenerative braking?All in all, the Avinox MG combined motor and gearbox is said to be suitable for all types of ebikes, from city commuter applications to road/gravel and performance eMTBs.Key specs520% gear rangesame 45dB operation as Avinox M2S & M2 motors, suggesting similar powernearly instant <0.1 second shiftsgearbox still shifts gears with no motor assistshifts under load up to 300Nm or at a standstill when not moving or pedalingcustomizable shifting, including auto shift modemore durable, lower maintenance straight chainlinerated for riders up to 150kg/330lbsuitable for all types of ebike applicationsComing soon?We did ask Avinox when the MG Concept would be a real product consumers can buy, and they answered that it wasnt quite ready yet. Pressed a bit harder, they confirmed it likely wont come to market in this calendar year. But the motor gearbox project is moving ahead quickly.(Image/Commencal)As to what bike company will be first to feature the Avinox combined ebike motor and gearbox, we cant say at the moment. But Commencal has teased us with this image, showing the new MG Concept powertrain neatly integrated into a next-gen Meta Power SX prototype eMTB frameset. On hand at the show, there were also prototype and mockup frames from Canyon, Forbidden & Mondraker, too. Commencals own concept of building tough, trail capable aluminum bikes makes them a logical choice for early development on any new drive system. Its much simpler to create alloy prototype frames as opposed to carbon. Plus, all the gearbox benefits like more central weight, reduced unsprung mass & more suspension kinematics design freedom fit well with a brand with such a gravity pedigree like Commencal.Maybe Commencal could be a logical choice to first bring the new Avinox MG Concept motor gearbox to consumer mountain bikers. Well certainly be on the lookout to ride one as soon as possible!Avinox-ebike.comThe post Avinox MG Concept: Lightweight, Full-Power Combined eBike Motor & Gearbox Project appeared first on Bikerumor.

StefanKng is on track to make his long-awaited return to racing this week after fracturing his femur and enduring a 16-week recovery. The Swiss rider crashed hard atOmloop Het Nieuwsblad on February 28th, but could be in line to already pick up a landmark win. The 32-year-old will don the Tudor P...

Nukeproof and its parent brand, Belgian Cycling Factory (BCF), just launched the affordable new Tracker FS enduro bike a few days ago. Today, theyre back with more new bikes, but this time, its the all-new Avinox-powered Kilowatt eMTB platform. With 150/160mm travel and available in alloy and carbon frames, the Kilowatt is positioned as a do-it-all e-bike, with prices starting at 3,999/4,999.Nukeproof says it is designed for riders who want one bike capable of doing everything, from after-work laps on local trials to bucket list riding destinations, the Kilowatt strikes the perfect balance for those seeking a single eMTB that excels everywhere. That certainly sounds appealing. Lets check it out.Nukeproof Kilowatt DetailsThe Kilowatt is a brand-new platform for Nukeproof, combining 150/160mm of travel, alloy or carbon frames, and the incredibly popular Avinox drive systems. The brand says these new eMTBs deliver low weight, high power, and the progressive geometry and ride characteristics that are unmistakably Nukeproof.FramesNukeproof is making the Kilowatt frames in both alloy and carbon fiber, which have been designed, not surprisingly, to look strikingly similar. The brand tells us that it is working with a new manufacturing partner on the alloy model, and together, they have been able to develop tube shapes that closely resemble the carbon frame. The alloy frames are made with 6061 T6 aluminum, and the carbon frames are crafted with UD Carbon Fiber.Regardless of material, the Kilowatt frame has 150mm of rear wheel travel and comes with a 160mm travel fork. This travel bracket is one of the most popular on the market and aligns well with Nukeproofs do-it-all intentions for the platform. Both frames employ what looks like a Horst Link suspension layout, but with a signature single-piece suspension linkage, which Nukeproof says differentiates it from traditional four-bar designs and increases stiffness between the front and rear triangles.The Kilowatt comes with a mixed-wheel/mullet setup, and Nukeproof says it is compatible with a 29 rear wheel via a flip-chip. Cable routing is all internal with a user- and maintenance-friendly tube-in-tube system. The frame has 12 x 148mm Boost axle spacing, one bottle mount in the front triangle, and molded rubber protection on the chainstay, seat stay, and downtube.The claimed weight for the Carbon Factory (size M) build is 22.2 kg (48.9 lbs.).GeometryThe new Kilowatt has a modern, trail-oriented geometry that looks well-suited to Nukeproofs all-rounder intentions for the platform. That includes a 64 head tube angle, 77-77.5 seat tube angle, and 450mm chainstays across all sizes. Stack heights are fairly generous, and reach measurements appear to be pretty standard, starting at 435mm on the small and growing to 500mm on the XL frame. On that note, the Kilowatt comes in four frame sizes, S to XL.The geometry chart provided by Nukeproof isnt the easiest to decipher, but all of the details are included if you want to give it a shot. The geometries of the alloy and carbon frames have some very minor differences mostly the seat tube angle is 77.5 on all sizes of Alloy frames the geometry chart for the Carbon frames is shown below.Avinox Drive SystemsIm going to sound like a broken record here, but the Kilowatt eMTBs are coming with the latest Avinox M2S and M2 drive units. Nukeproof says Avinox was the logical choice due to its outstanding blend of power, weight, range, and compact packaging, allowing them to make the Kilowatt look and ride more like their analog bikes. Three of the four models come with the more powerful M2S, while the base model Alloy Comp is equipped with the M2.For a quick refresher, these are the most powerful e-bike motors on the market. The M2S is capable of continuously putting out up to 1,300W of power and 130Nm of torque. That bumps up to 1,500W and 150Nm of torque in shorter bursts using Boost Mode. The M2 is slightly less powerful, with 1,100W of peak power and 110Nm of torque, with Boost mode topping out at 125Nm.All of the models come with fixed, non-removable batteries, with 800Wh on the M, L, and XL frames, and downtube length constraints limiting the Small to 600Wh. Nukeproof says it chose non-removable batteries to achieve the cleanest possible frame design. The less expensive alloy-framed models come with the standard 4A charger, while the carbon versions come with the 12A fast charger.Nukeproof Kilowatt: Builds and PricingThe Kilowatt is available in four complete builds, two alloy and two carbon, with prices starting at 3,999/4,499 for the entry-level Alloy Comp and topping out at 7,999/8,999 for the top-spec Carbon Factory build.Kilowatt Alloy Comp: 3,999/4,499Motor: Avinox M2Fork: RockShox Psylo Gold RC, 160mmShock: RockShox Deluxe SelectDrivetrain: SRAM S100 Half Mount, 12-speedBrakes: SRAM DB4 4-piston w/ 200mm Centerline rotorsWheels: WTB ST i30 rims w/ Shimano TC500 hubsTires: Schwalbe Magic Mary Gravity, Soft, 29 x 2.4 front, 27.5 x 2.4 rearDropper: X-Fusion Manic, S: 150mm, M/L/XL: 170mmKilowatt Alloy Pro: 4,999/5,499Motor: Avinox M2SFork: RockShox Lyrik, 160mmShock: RockShox Super DeluxeDrivetrain: SRAM Eagle 70 T-Type, 12-speedBrakes: SRAM Maven Base w/ 200mm Centerline rotorsWheels: Nukeproof NeutronTires: Schwalbe Magic Mary Gravity, Soft, 29 x 2.4 front, 27.5 x 2.4 rearDropper: Tranz-X YS108, adjustable, S: 150mm, M: 170mm, L/XL: 200mmKilowatt Carbon Expert: 6,499/7,499Motor: Avinox M2SFork: Fox 36 Float Performance, 160mmShock: Fox Float X PerformanceDrivetrain: SRAM Eagle 90 T-Type, 12-speedBrakes: SRAM Maven Base w/ 200mm Centerline rotorsWheels: DT Swiss HX1900Tires: Front: Schwalbe Magic Mary Gravity Pro Radial, Ultra Soft, 29 x 2.5, Rear: Schwalbe Albert Evo Gravity Pro Radial, Soft, 27.5 x 2.5Dropper: Tranz-X YS108, adjustable, S: 150mm, M: 170mm, L/XL: 200mmKilowatt Carbon Factory: 7,999/8,999Motor: Avinox M2SFork: Fox 36 Float Factory, 160mmShock: Fox Float X FactoryDrivetrain: SRAM XO AXS T-Type, 12-speedBrakes: SRAM Maven Silver w/ 200mm HS2 rotorsWheels: DT Swiss HX1700Tires: Front: Schwalbe Magic Mary Gravity Pro Radial, Ultra Soft, 29 x 2.5, Rear: Schwalbe Albert Evo Gravity Pro Radial, Soft, 27.5 x 2.5Dropper: OneUp V3, adjustable, S: 150mm, M: 180mm, L: 210mm, XL: 240mmAvailabilityNukeproof is launching the Kilowatt today at Eurobike, and says to expect bikes in stores later in the year. Head to the Nukeproof website to learn more.nukeproof.comThe post Nukeproof Joins the Avinox Party with the Launch of the Kilowatt eMTB appeared first on Bikerumor.