The first thing you notice about the new Powerfly is its clean look. In black and gray, the components, including the chunky Bosch battery, flow into one another. With the new Bosch Purion operating display, the handlebars are extremely tidy and discreet. The small display is completely sufficient for an E-MTB to call up the necessary information and select the appropriate mode. The motor support on the Powerfly comes from the tried-and-tested Bosch Performance CX, including the 500 watt-hour battery. Thanks to adapted software, the motor harmonizes seamlessly with the Sram EX1. Although the cassette only has eight sprockets, you rarely miss a gear. This shortcoming is quickly remedied by adjusting the support level. The shifting processes are smooth and to the point, the motor support remains regular and without annoying jerking. Trek also relies on Sram components for the brake system. With the Guide RS comes a four-piston brake that doesn't cause any problems even on a long descent and is crisp at all times. In order to enjoy these descents, Trek has fitted its own Bontrager dropper post to the FS9. The switch on the handlebars is particularly impressive with its extremely ergonomic position and control unit. The post itself works flawlessly and is quick and easy to position in height - an important argument, as (too) much riding on e-MTBs is done in a seated position.

Riding impression

We have already presented the new Trek E-MTBs and their technologies in more detail on Ride (link) - on the trail, the Powerfly behaves similarly to a conventional mountain bike. Thanks to the comfortable, upright and central riding position, the front stays on the ground even on steep climbs - the relatively short chainstay means that traction is also available when pedaling in the saddle. One shortcoming is still the push assist on the Bosch motor, which only provides very discreet and slow support on walking and pushing sections; E-MTB routes should still be planned with little to no walking or even carrying sections. On descents, even the short-stroke version of the Powerfly remains grippy on the trail. The Rock Shox suspension elements work flawlessly - at times you almost forget you're sitting on a heavy E-MTB. The Bontrager Chupacabra tires have more grip than you would expect at first glance, but they are too thin-walled for a tour on rough mountain trails. Trek will soon be presenting a stronger, alpine-compatible version.

Conclusion

We completed a day tour with a battery change on the Trek Powerfly FS9 Plus and felt comfortable at all times. The climbs, some of which were very steep, didn't cause any problems and on the descents the focus was always on having fun. When the tires are updated, the FS9 will be more than ready for higher, rougher Alpine trails.

Ride report Bosch Purion