Hercules Nos 2.1 Review

Shimano motors remain at the top of the engine popularity alongside Bosch motors. No wonder, as evidenced by EP8. No matter how steep or technical the climb is: the Shimano motor makes it conquerable! At the same time, the drive provides a well-rounded feeling while riding with a harmonious power delivery. The average range can become a problem especially for long mountain bike rides.

On rough terrain, the Nos 2.1, with its only average fork, lacks some control. The mid-range brakes from Shimano do their job but could be a bit firmer. The power of the four pistons setup is only average. The components and the gears are less in the spotlight with an EMTB than with bikes without motor. Nevertheless, when we take a look we find out that here, good components are always used. If the Meta's chainstay length is less than 445 short wheelbase and a moderate reach value make the handling pleasantly playful. The small 27.5 inch wheels give the bike a lively character. Furthermore, the bike lies excellent on the trail thanks to its low bottom bracket and thus low centre of gravity. It's no use beating around the bush: the geometry of Hercules doesn't suit our taste. Competitors are closer to the cutting edge here.