BH I Lynx + SL Review

The new BH iLynx+ SL is a modern e-mountain bike with impressive technical specifications. Despite full motor power and 160 mm of travel on the fork, it weighs under 20 kg. But will you still want to buy a Shimano EP801 motor in 2025?

The iLynx+ SL is available in two suspension travel options: as an Enduro version with 160 mm travel (front and rear) and as a Trail version with 140 mm travel (front and rear), which we tested.

Despite the relatively limited travel, BH relies on a solid 36 fork, a shock with a piggyback reservoir, and a 4-piston brake system from Shimano. They want to leave nothing to chance here.

However, one shouldn’t be deceived by its burly appearance on the trail. With 140 mm of travel, you quickly hit the limit in rough terrain. If you like to ride aggressively, you’ll need to firm up the suspension to avoid spending too much time in the last third of the travel.

Additionally, the fact that the Split-Pivot rear suspension works almost linearly with the Fox shock provides a lot of comfort and supports a more passive riding style. Riders who actively push through corners and like to catch air occasionally will need to run the suspension relatively stiff to avoid reaching the bike’s limits.

The bike uses the Shimano EP801 with 85 Nm of torque. Unlike Orbea with the Rise, BH works without a motor lock. This allows the motor to reach about 600 watts of peak power, putting it on par with Bosch’s old and new CX motors. In other aspects, however, the Shimano EP801 motor now has open flanks that Bosch and DJI address better with their latest motors.

The EP801 motor was introduced in 2021 and was groundbreaking at the time. While Bosch and DJI ushered in a new era in 2024, the problem areas of the EP801 remain unchanged in 2025. The motor clatters loudly downhill on the trail, buzzes very high-pitched uphill when assisting, and requires a relatively high cadence (over 90) to reach its optimal working range.

Those who say these points don’t matter to them still get a drive unit with the EP801 motor in 2025 that is state-of-the-art in terms of weight, power, and energy consumption.

The impressive weight of the BH iLynx+ SL is largely due to its small 630-Wh battery. For comparison: the Santa Cruz Heckler has a bit more suspension travel, but it also comes with a larger 750-Wh battery and is therefore significantly heavier.

However, 630 Wh is by no means insignificant. Many Bosch e-bikes, such as the Santa Cruz Vala, currently have only a 600-Wh battery. At full assist level and with a system weight (rider + bike) of 100 kg, this is enough for about 1,700 meters of elevation gain.

We determined this in a practical test, but the number varies greatly depending on conditions. Depending on the terrain, tires, and rider weight, you might only achieve 1,400 meters in Boost mode. But the range is within a scope that allows for tours—especially since the removable battery opens up the option for a spare battery.

Additionally, you can attach a 180-Wh range extender to the bike at any time. However, you need to purchase it separately, and it also increases the weight again.

The frame is made from carbon and weighs approximately 2.4 kg. The maximum permissible weight is 165 kg. Thoughtful details like the integrated charging port in the rear triangle and internally routed cables through the headset contribute to the sleek appearance.

Additionally, BH offers the option to have your bike painted in a custom color from the factory. While this option is also known from Orbea, most other manufacturers do not offer it. With the Spaniards, the aesthetics ride along.