British brand Saracen has become the latest to add an e-bike to its range, developing a new commuter machine called the Juiced.
Built around a hydroformed 6061 alloy frame, the Juiced gets Suntour Axon XC forks with 100mm of air-sprung travel to keep things comfy on rough city roads, while Shimano M506 hydraulic disc brakes bring its 18.9kg/41-pound bulk to a halt.
- 10 reasons why you really ought to try an e-MTB
- Electric bike reviews and news
- Saracen 2016 range highlights
Elsewhere on the new Saracen Juiced, there's Shimano Deore 1x10-speed shifters, with an 11-36t cassette paired to a 38t chainset. Tyres are Maxxis Re-Fuse 27.5 x 2.0in dual-compound, and finishing kit is mainly Saracen's own-brand stuff, including flat bars, custom stem and lock-on grips.
Power up those climbs, commuters
But it's the e-bike system that's the main draw here: the UK-developed Saracen Juiced uses Shimano's STEPS system to power riders over longer distances and up steeper hills, so they can arrive at their destination sweat-free.
There's a STEPS E6000 drive unit connected to the bottom bracket, powered by an E6010 battery mounted on the down tube. A STEPS computer mounted on the handlebars indicates what gear you're riding in, how much battery is left and more.
There are three assisted modes available: Eco Mode, which has a range of 125km, Normal Mode (85km) and High Mode (60km). As always, it only works when you pedal, to comply with European regulations.
New riders
"The e-bike market in the UK is really set to take off this year," said Jack Geoghegan, Saracen brand manager at UK distributor Sportline. "This bike will introduce the Saracen brand to a whole new range of riders, and open up the world of cycling to new riders that can now use their bikes as a legitimate mode of transport over longer distances."
The Saracen Juiced is available in 15, 17 or 19-inch frame sizes, and costs £2,599 in the UK. We've asked for more info on Saracen's plans to expand its e-bike range, and whether there's a full-suspension version in the pipeline – watch this space…
What do you think of Saracen's first e-bike? Let us know in the comments below.