M1 AM 600 EMTB Review

There are many manufacturers that install Bosch motors, but few work with as flexible a platform as M1 Sporttechnik. Battery size, charging options, and motor model can be selected à la carte. Do these numerous options provide an advantage, or does the product suffer from it?

We tested the M1 AM equipped with Bosch’s new 5th generation CX motor. With 85 Nm of maximum torque and 600 W peak power, the motor provides enough power to tackle even steep climbs with ease. It’s particularly noteworthy that the new motor is not only powerful but also much quieter. A common complaint with older Bosch motors was the rattling noise – this is now a thing of the past.

The motor also impresses with its sensitive control. For those who really hit the trails, significant differences compared to its predecessor, the All information on the Bosch CX Motor , can be felt. At high torque, the motor is a bit quieter in assistance than its predecessor or the Shimano EP801 motor. However, it remains audible when riding uphill on asphalt.

The EMTB scene is having a heated debate about the battery concepts of current e-bikes. It’s clear: A removable battery increases flexibility for charging and tour planning. This is essential when you’re at a cabin or in a basement compartment without power, as it’s often a relief to bring the battery to a nearby outlet without the bike.

This option requires a large opening in the down tube, which in turn affects the frame weight. Considering this, it’s even more astonishing that M1 manages to keep the total weight under 21 kg with a 600Wh battery. In comparison: The Santa Cruz Vala in the test , the Mondraker Crafty 2025 in the test , and the Bulls Sonic EN-R in the test are at least 1, possibly even 2 kg heavier with the same battery size.

Besides the option to charge the battery when removed, the M1 can also be powered via a charging port. The developers have truly thought of everything to make everyday as well as extraordinary situations as pleasant as possible for every e-biker.

In addition to how the battery is installed, the main interest is how long it lasts. We drained the 600-battery at a system weight (rider + bike) of 100 kilos with a controlled input of 150 watts. The energy from the 600-battery was enough for just over 1600 meters of elevation gain.

If that’s not enough, you need to opt for the one kilo heavier 800-battery. M1 offers this option. The modular concept also allows you to install any current Bosch battery in the downtube of the M1. Or you can simply avoid using turbo mode. If you additionally connect a Range Extender with 250 watts, you can comfortably go on long tours in the Alps with over 1000 Wh. Unlike many other bikes, you also have the option to work with a second spare battery here. The issue of range can be approached quite easily with the M1 bike thanks to its numerous options.

The M1 AM.600.CX weighs about 20.9 kg with the 600 Wh battery and rolls on mullet wheels (larger front wheel, smaller rear wheel), leading to a sporty and agile ride. The bike handles turns very well and shows great nimbleness on technical trails.

The suspension has a consistently comfortable character. The rear works linearly. Sporty riders with an aggressive riding style might wish for a bit more resistance from the shock. In such cases, we definitely recommend installing volume spacers in the shock. The high main pivot point of the bike allows the rear wheel to move significantly backward when compressing, enhancing comfort even when descending hard.

Thanks to the mullet setup and not too long main frame, the M1 AM bike feels more nimble than many of its competitors. Combined with the linear working suspension, it results in a bike that is not designed for ruthless downhill bombing, but rather for riding fun and comfort. An orientation that will likely appeal to the vast majority of e-bikers.