E-bike, but simple

Mahle SL System

Photo: Mahle Konzern

Grown-up e-bikes are extremely heavy, making them unwieldy and oversized for short after-work rides. On the other hand, these e-bikes boast a long range. And there is another way: with smaller batteries and smaller motors, the weights are significantly reduced. Mahle, a specialist in rear-wheel motors, takes this lightweight concept to the extreme.

Until now, the batteries in Mahle's e-bike systems were always permanently bolted into the down tube, and a range extender could be accommodated externally on the frame in the form of a bidon. Now Mahle has canceled the internal battery and relies exclusively on an external battery - the rear wheel motor remains on board.

In addition to the battery, the complete SL system includes a control element, a motor from the X20 or X30 series and a torque sensor. All of this should weigh a modest 2.5 kilograms.

As Mahle announces, the SL system should fit all bicycle frames. According to corporate communications, the focus is primarily on urban and city bikes, but e-mountainbikes could also benefit from a proper weight reduction.