While still relatively new, e-MTBs are quickly evolving from the bolt-on monstrosities of a few years ago to frames where the motor and battery are cleverly integrated, like Orbea’s new Wild FS trail e-MTB.
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The Wild FS is the Spanish brand's first foray into pedal assist all-terrain bikes, and will be one of the first to feature Shimano's new Steps E-8000 system.
Rather than opting for a bolt on job, or even a schmick integrated battery, Orbea has instead used the standard E8000 battery pack and hidden it inside the bikes monstrous downtube. The 504 watt-hour battery pack slides into the bike via a tool-free access door on the non-drive side, which Orbea calls ‘Hideout Technology.'
Not only does this allow for easy battery replacement, it also keeps the power pack out of the elements. On the top of the downtube, there’s also sealed battery window that allows access to a status gauge and power button.
The Steps E8000 system also uses a standard chainring, sees an integrated speed sensor in the rear dropout and a compact ANT+/Bluetooth colour display which is mounted on the handlebar. A 250-watt motor capable of 70nm of torque provides the extra oomph, while an integrated metal skidplate is included to fend off rock strikes.
The Wild FS is squarely positioned as a trail bike with a 67-degree head angle, 74-degree seat angle and relatively short 450mm chainstays.
With 140mm of front and rear travel on tap, the Wild FS features a Boost spaced alloy frame that will accept both 27.5+ or 29er wheels and tyres. At the back, the frame sees a four-bar linkage with sealed cartridge pivot bearings for the best possible performance and longevity.
Set to be available in November, Orbea will be producing four models all will feature 35mm stems, wide bars, and either Kenda Nevegal 29 x 2.4in or Kenda Havok 27.5 x 2.8in rubber depending on which wheel size you go for.
Models
Wild FS 40
- Shock: Fox Float DPS Factory 3-Position Adjust Evol Kashima custom tune
- Fork: Fox 34 Float Performace 140 3-Position QR15x110 E-Bike Optimized
- Bar: Orbea 35mm Riser 780mm
- Stem: Orbea 35mm interface
- Shifters: Shimano Deore M6000 I-Spec II
- Brakes: Shimano MT500 Hydraulic Disc
- Rear Derailleur: Shimano XT M786 GS Shadow Plus Direct Mount
- Seatpost: Orbea Digit 31.6x400mm
- £3,499 / $4,699 / AU$5,699
Wild FS 30
- Shock: Fox Float DPS Factory 3-Position Adjust Evol Kashima custom tune
- Fork: Fox 34 Float Performace 140 3-Position QR15x110 E-Bike Optimized
- Bar: Orbea 35mm Riser 780mm
- Stem: Orbea 35mm interface
- Shifters: Shimano Deore M6000 I-Spec II
- Brakes: Shimano MT500 Hydraulic Disc
- Rear Derailleur: Shimano XT M786 GS Shadow Plus Direct Mount
- Seatpost: Orbea Digit 31.6x400mm
- £3,999 / $5,299 / AU$6,599
Wild FS 20
- Shock: Fox Float DPS Factory 3-Position Adjust Evol Kashima custom tune
- Fork: Fox 34 Float Performace 140 3-Position QR15x110 E-Bike Optimized
- Bar: Race Face Ride 35 20mm Rise 760mm
- Stem: Race Face Ride 35mm interface
- Shifters: Shimano XT M8000 I-Spec (B-type)
- Brakes: Shimano ZEE Hydraulic Disc Ice-Technologies
- Rear Derailleur: Shimano XT M8000 GS Shadow Plus Direct Mount
- Seatpost: Race Face Aeffect Dropper 31.6x385/125mm
- £4,599 / $5,999 / AU$6,999
Wild FS 10
- Shock: Fox Float DPS Factory 3-Position Adjust Evol Kashima custom tune
- Fork: Fox 34 Float Factory 140 FIT4 3-Pos-Adj QR15x110 Kashima E-Bike Optimized
- Bar: Race Face Ride 35 20mm Rise 760mm
- Stem: Race Face Ride 35mm interface
- Shifters: SRAM EX1
- Brakes: Avid Guide RE Hydraulic Disc
- Rear Derailleur: SRAM EX1
- Seatpost: Race Face Aeffect Dropper 31.6x385/125mm
- £5,599 / $6,999 / AU$ 8,399