The Rapcon Pmax is not available off the shelf, it can be configured at Simplon's headquarters in Hard on Lake Constance, at one of their specialist dealers or online. It is then individually assembled and can be collected from the Simplon partner of choice.

Ride asked Simplon what else sets the bike apart from its sophisticated features and striking looks:

Thanks to the geometry adjustment using flip chips, a mullet setup (29-inch wheel at the front, 27.5-inch wheel at the rear) and suspension travel variants from 150 to 170 millimetres are possible.

The Rapcon Pmax is designed for tough enduro use thanks to additional hollow chambers in the down tube and double-bearing joints on the rear triangle. This design offers maximum riding stability.

A short seat tube and a moderate stack value enable upsizing. This means that larger frames can be ridden if a longer reach is required.

Statement by: Alex Steurer, Strategic Relationships, Simplon Fahrrad GmbH

Equipment

As all Simplon bikes are individually configured, this test does not go into much detail about the equipment. The decisive factor for the riding qualities of the Rapcon is clearly the potent suspension from Rock Shox. The Lyrik suspension fork with 170 millimeters of travel combined with a Super Deluxe Coil at the rear, which generates 160 millimeters of travel, make a clear statement: This bike wants to be ridden downhill! The shock is equipped with a lockout remote control.
The test bike comes with mixed wheel sizes and different tire widths: 29 x 2.4 inches at the front and 27.5 x 2.8 inches at the rear. The tried-and-tested HX 1501 30 wheels from DT Swiss and the Schwalbe Eddy Current tires are standard

Motor / battery

Bosch Performance Line CX / Bosch Power Tube 625
Power: 250 watts
Torque: 75 Newton meters
Battery capacity: 625 watt hours

Processing & details

The grey and black design in combination with the red fork and the steel spring of the same color create an almost aggressive look. The interplay of matt and gloss paint gives the look that certain something. The carbon frame looks very solid and is made for rough rides. The shock absorber is well protected and embedded in the massive "seat tube". All bearings are large and well sealed or covered.

As mentioned at the beginning, the bike can be fitted with different wheel sizes. Flip chips are installed at the top of the seat stays to adjust the geometry.

Wild rides could also end up in the rafters. It's good to know that the built-in steering stop protects the frame from contact with the fork. The concept of "protection" extends to various details. Be it the stainless steel protectors on the dropouts and bottom bracket, the cable routing through the headset or through the middle of the pivot point on the bottom bracket. The above-mentioned installation of the shock absorber or the battery cover made of damping rubber are also part of the protection. A lot of thought has gone into ensuring that Simplon can offer a robust and durable bike.

The ventilation slots in the headset area allow cooling air to flow in during descents and warm air to escape when riding uphill. This is intended to reduce battery heating. In addition, the cables can alternatively be routed through the ventilation slots if a different headset is installed.

The battery can be removed effortlessly with two hand grips.
Behind the battery is another piece of engineering skill, the clean and easily accessible cables.

The frame is prepared for the integration of Fox Live Valve. In addition to the internal battery with 625 watt hours, an external version with 500 watt hours can be fitted to the down tube. The bottom line is that 1125 watt hours provide an enormous capacity.

On the flat

The suspension is sensitive and absorbs even the smallest bumps. The riding position is upright and slightly front-heavy. The bike pedals comfortably and steers agilely through flowing trails. Thanks to the powerful motor, you quickly reach the 25 km/h limit. If you pedal beyond this, you hardly notice it.

Up the mountain

A mullet body always has disadvantages uphill, the front rises faster than with wheels of the same size. Thanks to the forward-leaning riding position and the short head tube, you have enough pressure on the front wheel on this bike. As long as the ground is reasonably flat, even the steepest ramps are easy to master. The remote control of the shock helps you to climb more efficiently. If you want to tackle rough and steep terrain, the front wheel will quickly get in the way. It's crucial to ride in the right gear and apply forward pressure. The Rapcon is very well balanced and can be maneuvered smoothly, small trial interludes work well.

Downhill

This is where the true qualities of the bike's balanced geometry and potent build really come into their own. The Simplon can be chased over fast and rough sections with precision and directional stability, and it has nothing to hide on tight and technical sections. Shifting the rear wheel or maneuvering around and over obstacles in exposed sections at walking pace is easy. Sure, the weight has a negative impact, but that's the case with all e-bikes. However, it is surprising how agile the Rapcon Pmax is and how playful you can be off-road.

The steel spring means that the rear end gives little feedback from the ground, but it irons everything out without you losing control.

Conclusion

At first glance, the Simplon Rapcon Pmax gives the impression that it is not a "normal" e-mountainbike. The numerous details and the very high-quality workmanship justify the high purchase price. This is underlined by the very good handling and the powerful motor. Bosch famously promotes uphill flow, which the bike delivers, along with a good dose of downhill fun.

Recommendation

The Simplon Rapcon Pmax in the tested version clearly appeals to financially strong people who value details and are not afraid of a wilder pace. This bike pushes boundaries and puts a grin on your face.

Manufacturer/distributor

www.simplon.com