Propain promises uphill and downhill fun with the Ekano 2 AL

Propain Ekano 2 AL jolly aubergine racing

Photo: Florian Falch

With the Ekano 2 AL, Propain pursued the goal of designing an e-mountain bike that is the ultimate fun machine uphill and downhill. With 170 at the rear and up to 190 millimetres of travel at the front, the bike should not shy away from anything, without in any way conveying the usual sluggishness of e-bikes. It also comes with the latest, powerful Shimano drive, and at interesting prices starting at just under 5000 euros.

Overall concept and geometry

The new Ekano 2 AL is the next evolutionary stage of the first Propain e-mountainbike. The bike makers from southern Germany believe they have succeeded in transferring their proven PRO10 system to an e-bike. This results in a significantly lower center of gravity and improves the kinematics considerably. "Handling and downhill performance were absolutely paramount during development. That's why we didn't get involved in the 'who has the biggest battery' competition," says Propain. A relatively low overall weight with optimum weight distribution gives the new Ekano a playful and agile "spindle drift-like" ride on the trail.

The new Shimano EP801 delivers 80 watts more peak power than its predecessor across a wider cadence range. Coupled with the 626 watt-hour battery weighing just 3.3 kilograms and the completely new frame design, this is exactly the sweet spot for maximum fun both uphill and downhill. A full 170 millimetres of travel at the rear and a choice of 180 or 190 millimetres at the front, reach values adapted to the product range, a slightly slacker head angle of now 64 degrees and a steep seat angle of 78 degrees result in the modern geometry of the E-freerider from Propain.

Size and wheel concept

The Ekano 2 AL is only available in a mixed-wheel setup. The small rear wheel and the medium-length chainstays of 445 millimetres round off the handling. "For the e-freeride bike, it was important to us to ensure maximum freedom of movement with good rollover behavior at the same time. That's why "business in the front and party in the back" is without a doubt the best option." The Ekano 2 AL is available in sizes S, M, L and XL. The stack is deliberately kept higher across all four sizes in order to achieve ideal handling despite the additional weight of the motor and battery.

The equipment and prices

When selecting components, Propain continues to rely on a large and high-quality variety from which every customer can configure their dream bike. Proven suspension options from Rock Shox and Fox, brakes from Sram, Magura and Formula and wheels from Newmen and Crankbrothers, as well as various options for handlebars, stems, seat posts, saddles and tires offer countless possibilities for customization.

In addition to the individual configuration, Propain offers three fixed equipment packages for the new Ekano, which should make it easier for the customer to choose the bike. The build kits are recommendations from Propain to its customers, as this is exactly how the company would build its own bikes internally.

The starting price of the Ekano 2 AL is 4994.00 euros. The Price2Ride is available for 5889.00, the Shred² for 7579.00 and the Goldrush for 8999.00 euros.

propain-bikes.com