The Best Iteration of The Mtb since The Gravel Bike
Since its inception remarkably few mtb’s have actually been used for riding off road. In our area, even most off road trails are hard pack clay where knobby tires aren’t ideal. People buy them because they are rugged and can go anywhere they need (just try getting to Ruby’s without hopping a curb or going four blocks out of your way).
It is no wonder then why Gravel Bikes have become so popular. Far more efficient, with no heavy suspension to lug around. They grip sandy surfaces, handle pavement imperfections and are ideal for hard pack and rail trails.
Now, add a battery sipping, torque sensing mid-drive e-bike motor into the mix. No more wind. No more hills and your range on any given afternoon is nearly DOUBLED (80 mile real world range)!
This Amok from Retrospec includes a more upright, flat handlebar. It should really enhance urban commutes. Gusseted and butted aluminum is lightweight with a classic road look. There are even plenty of eyelets for fenders and racks (even low rider panniers up front)!
Yes, it could use upgraded hubs, but these are superior to any factory e-bikexwithin a thousand dollars. I’d like to upgrade the deraileur, but today, the entire Shimano line is reliable. Really, what more can you ask for in an all around commuter and for weekend getaways? .. $1695 (add $200 for suspension stem and seat post).