Orbea RISE M20 Review

Shimano motors remain at the top of the engine popularity alongside Bosch motors. No wonder, as evidenced by EP8 RS. At the drivetrain, Orbea relies on the Shimano EP8 RS. The big difference between the EP8 RS and the regular EP8 motor lies in the software. For use in light EMTBs, the maximum support was slightly reduced. Nevertheless, the EP8 RS remains significantly stronger than other light motors. Like the EP8, the EP8 RS conveys a natural riding experience. The power delivery is always harmonious. Something annoying with the EP8 RS is the slight gear rattle downhill. The short range unfortunately limits the tour radius quite significantly. Who wants to remove the battery for charging or storing, will be disappointed with the RISE M20. The battery is firmly built-in.

In the about 6500€ price range, most manufacturers use aluminium as the frame material. With a carbon frame, Orbea turns the weight screw and sets itself apart from the competitors. The Fox chassis provides safety and traction, even when the trail gets rougher. However, it comes to its limit at high speed. The mid-range brakes from Shimano do their job but could be a bit firmer. The power of the two pistons setup with small 180 brake rotors is only average. At the drivetrain components and the rest of the parts, Orbea uses average parts. The moderate head tube angle provides a good compromise between stability and agility when going downhill. The reach is also right there in the middle ground. The low bottom bracket height is a party pooper for the handling on the trail. On other bikes, you are more centrally located behind the handlebar. Due to the short chainstays , when climbing steep sections, it requires active weight shifting to prevent the front wheel from lifting. Overall, the Orbea developers have done a great job with a god geometry. With its 18,5 kg, the RISE M20 is one of the lighter E-bikes. The competition is often significantly heavier.