Lightweight bike for lighter rider?

[Kalamalka]

I’m ready to buy a new ebike but I’m struggling to find what I need. Have a minor medical condition that requires me to have some e-bike assistance at times (not all the time). I need that little bit of extra, but don’t want or need full power. Weigh about 135-140lbs, do still like a bit of a workout.

I like bikes that feel natural. Ride in Whistler, Squamish, Vancouver, mainly stick to black tech. Lots of technical climbs. Don’t ride with other ebikers.

Had the 2025 Rise and I did not like it. It felt like a tank, I don’t like the feel of Shimano (noisy, clunky, too boosty) or their terrible app.

Tried a Yeti MTE but it is way too heavy and bulky for me.

Interested in the Rallon RS but while I can afford it, the price just doesnt seem right.

Don’t mind the Fuel+, but the arched top tube is kinda ugly in the medium. In general, love the TQ motor. I’m looking for lightweight and quiet over range.

Don’t like those massive downtubes, like the yeti mte was much bigger in real life. Not interested in Amflow type bikes.

So bikes I’m considering:

Pivot Shuttle XT
$9500cad

Heckler SL
$11.5k

Transition Regulator
$11k

Fuel+
$12k

Propain Shresh
Build below 9-10K but, shipping to Canada would bring it closer to the others with duties and taxes. Plus warranty would be a hassle.

I love the Heckler but really quite worried about Fazua… and it seems quite old tech/unreliable. But dealers for all these bikes are near.

Did I forget options?! Any real life comparisons/similar experiences people have here?

 

[nickf]

These are all really great bikes on your list. Can't really go wrong (except the Fazua motor). It will be down to personal preference for you.

I have a Fuel+ MX build, tad over 20kg with pedals. Love it! I previously test rode a Heckler SL for a day. The Fazua motor was nice but the TQ is quieter and more natural, and Fazua reliability is a deal breaker for me. I personally didn't like the Heckler's VPP. The Fuel+ feels more nimble and sorted to me. YMMV and others may have quite different opinions.

BTW at first I also didn't like the Fuel's slightly arched top tube, or the green splatter paint. But it's quickly grown on me and now I think it's a great looking bike. Looks are important, but possibly not the key criterion when making a buying decision!

 

[Kalamalka]

These are all really great bikes on your list. Can't really go wrong (except the Fazua motor). It will be down to personal preference for you.

I have a Fuel+ MX build, tad over 20kg with pedals. Love it! I previously test rode a Heckler SL for a day. The Fazua motor was nice but the TQ is quieter and more natural, and Fazua reliability is a deal breaker for me. I personally didn't like the Heckler's VPP. The Fuel+ feels more nimble and sorted to me. YMMV and others may have quite different opinions.

BTW at first I also didn't like the Fuel's slightly arched top tube, or the green splatter paint. But it's quickly grown on me and now I think it's a great looking bike. Looks are important, but possibly not the key criterion when making a buying decision!

Do you ride a medium? Mind adding some pictures?

 

[nickf]

Do you ride a medium? Mind adding some pictures?

This is the bike as it came. Size M in MX build.

The Float X shock had to be serviced under warranty, so in the meantime I put a Jade X Prime coil on it.

Initially I also didn't go for the curve at the front end and I thought the gloss black was a way better looker than the green. But once I got it home I decided it looks great and maybe even better than in black. Just shows how capricious our aesthetic judgements can be! In the end we ride it more than we look at it. It's a bike!

(Having said that, I was in my LBS last week and saw the new Rallon RS and it did look a million dollars. Actually only a bit cheaper than that! However, I personally wouldn't buy one cos I don't think the TQ40 has enough support for what I need. The TQ60 is perfect.)

 

[Ou812]

You could always wait until bikes with the Maxon Air S start hitting the floors, you get full fat power at SL weights. One of the brands using it has a full enduro build that comes in at 18kg in a size medium.

After owning a Fazua bike and having friends that have bought Fazua bikes I wouldn’t recommend them to my worst enemy

 

[MeatBike]

Remy Metailler is always posting discount codes for Propain on his social media. Sometimes its for the bikes, and others its for the shipping.

 

[MTcycler]

I’m ready to buy a new ebike but I’m struggling to find what I need. Have a minor medical condition that requires me to have some e-bike assistance at times (not all the time). I need that little bit of extra, but don’t want or need full power. Weigh about 135-140lbs, do still like a bit of a workout.

I like bikes that feel natural. Ride in Whistler, Squamish, Vancouver, mainly stick to black tech. Lots of technical climbs. Don’t ride with other ebikers.

Had the 2025 Rise and I did not like it. It felt like a tank, I don’t like the feel of Shimano (noisy, clunky, too boosty) or their terrible app.

Tried a Yeti MTE but it is way too heavy and bulky for me.

Interested in the Rallon RS but while I can afford it, the price just doesnt seem right.

Don’t mind the Fuel+, but the arched top tube is kinda ugly in the medium. In general, love the TQ motor. I’m looking for lightweight and quiet over range.

Don’t like those massive downtubes, like the yeti mte was much bigger in real life. Not interested in Amflow type bikes.

So bikes I’m considering:

Pivot Shuttle XT
$9500cad

Heckler SL
$11.5k

Transition Regulator
$11k

Fuel+
$12k

Propain Shresh
Build below 9-10K but, shipping to Canada would bring it closer to the others with duties and taxes. Plus warranty would be a hassle.

I love the Heckler but really quite worried about Fazua… and it seems quite old tech/unreliable. But dealers for all these bikes are near.

Did I forget options?! Any real life comparisons/similar experiences people have here?

I have similar preferences for SL eMTB, and can recommend Transition Regulator SX and Pivot Shuttle SL/AM, both with Bosch SX motor. They are both very capable, have good power assist, and are very fun to ride; with some modifications, you can get them to 40-41 lb (with pedals). You'll save about 10 lb if you don't need the extra torque of the Bosch CX of the Shuttle LT or the Regulator CX. The Regulator SX replaced a Heckler SL, which rode well, but the Fazua proved unreliable. Try the Shuttle SL/AM for full 29", vs the Regulator SX for mixed.

 

[nickf]

I can't comment on how the Bosch SX motor feels, but it does have a noticeable motor whine and the infamous Bosch rattle. The TQ60 on the other hand is totally silent. For me personally I can't emphasise enough how much difference that makes and how it reinforces the "purity" of the analogue-like ride experience. YMMV and I'm sure this isn't as important for everyone.

 

[nickf]

The Loam Wolf did a shootout comparison of many SL bikes, including the Pivot, Yeti, Propain and Trek Fuel+. So both TQ60 and Bosch SX motors ridden. There are also individual review vids for all of these bikes.

This reminds me that Mondraker have SL bikes with both Bosch and TQ motors in the Dune and the Neat.

There's also the new-ish Spesh SL of course, but the small battery could be a deal breaker.

 

[Kalamalka]

You could always wait until bikes with the Maxon Air S start hitting the floors, you get full fat power at SL weights. One of the brands using it has a full enduro build that comes in at 18kg in a size medium.

After owning a Fazua bike and having friends that have bought Fazua bikes I wouldn’t recommend them to my worst enemy

Appreciate the confirmation of Fazua, but I think you may have misread my post! I absolutely do NOT want full power, I want to suffer a bit on the uphills. I sold my Rise as I didn’t like it (had the 85nm option).

 

[Kalamalka]

Remy Metailler is always posting discount codes for Propain on his social media. Sometimes its for the bikes, and others its for the shipping.

Yeah like that one but would be worried about warranty, having to ship bike/motor, I think I prefer buying local. All the bikes, except dor sresh, i can get in my city.

 

[Kalamalka]

I have similar preferences for SL eMTB, and can recommend Transition Regulator SX and Pivot Shuttle SL/AM, both with Bosch SX motor. They are both very capable, have good power assist, and are very fun to ride; with some modifications, you can get them to 40-41 lb (with pedals). You'll save about 10 lb if you don't need the extra torque of the Bosch CX of the Shuttle LT or the Regulator CX. The Regulator SX replaced a Heckler SL, which rode well, but the Fazua proved unreliable. Try the Shuttle SL/AM for full 29", vs the Regulator SX for mixed.

Hows the downtube on the SL/AM. I can’t test that one and its quite a bit mote expensive. I feel its maybe a bit more like the yeti?

Hows that noise on the Bosch, seen some very strong opinions on that.

 

[Kalamalka]

I forgot to add the Norco Fluid VLT, they seem to get mixed reviews, are dirt cheap right now with C2 6k, C1 9.5K.

But they seem a bit ‘meh’.

 

[Stihldog]

Yeah like that one but would be worried about warranty, having to ship bike/motor, I think I prefer buying local. All the bikes, except dor sresh, i can get in my city.

I’m in your area (Coquitlam/Vancouver) and there are many options. However a local Bike Shop is a good idea.
I lean towards the Trek Fuel + or EXE. The TQ motor seems to be in your wheelhouse, either the 50 or 60 nm. You won’t be disappointed with that decision.

One of our favourite mechanics/manager (Jason) was just promoted to Manager of the Trek store in Vancouver. I’ve known him for 7+ years and I can’t express how much he has helped me and others.

Regardless of the wait I had to suffer (1 month) , the Fuel EXE was worth it.

 

[Stihldog]

If warranty is important to you (it is to me) , a local Bike Shop is very helpful for our EMTBs. Things may go wrong and simply showing your face or developing a relationship with your local Bike Shop can be an advantage. I/we will miss Jason, but he is only a phone call away or a 30+ minute drive.

 

[MTcycler]

Hows the downtube on the SL/AM. I can’t test that one and its quite a bit mote expensive. I feel its maybe a bit more like the yeti?

Hows that noise on the Bosch, seen some very strong opinions on that.

The downtube on the SL/AM is bulky, similar to that on the Yeti MTe; the Regulator SX is thinner. I purchased the SL/AM last August and the Regulator SX last November, have ridden over 2500 miles between them, and have never heard the rattle of the earlier versions of the Bosch SX. The sound of the motor is very similar to the Fazua 60. It is more noticeable than TQ HPR 60, but when I demo'ed a Yeti MTe back-to-back with a SL/AM, the TQ was markedly underpowered compared to the Bosch SX. With the Bosch firmware update that can boost torque to 60 nM and 400% power amplification, there would be no comparison.

 

[Kalamalka]

I’m in your area (Coquitlam/Vancouver) and there are many options. However a local Bike Shop is a good idea.
I lean towards the Trek Fuel + or EXE. The TQ motor seems to be in your wheelhouse, either the 50 or 60 nm. You won’t be disappointed with that decision.

One of our favourite mechanics/manager (Jason) was just promoted to Manager of the Trek store in Vancouver. I’ve known him for 7+ years and I can’t express how much he has helped me and others.

Regardless of the wait I had to suffer (1 month) , the Fuel EXE was worth it.

Looks like the Fuels are now quite a long lead time (late summer), except for the EX version. Definitely don’t want to wait that long!

The downtube on the SL/AM is bulky, similar to that on the Yeti MTe; the Regulator SX is thinner. I purchased the SL/AM last August and the Regulator SX last November, have ridden over 2500 miles between them, and have never heard the rattle of the earlier versions of the Bosch SX. The sound of the motor is very similar to the Fazua 60. It is more noticeable than TQ HPR 60, but when I demo'ed a Yeti MTe back-to-back with a SL/AM, the TQ was markedly underpowered compared to the Bosch SX. With the Bosch firmware update that can boost torque to 60 nM and 400% power amplification, there would be no comparison.

This is awesome intel! How come you got both the SL/AM and regulator? Any you prefer?

 

[MTcycler]

Looks like the Fuels are now quite a long lead time (late summer), except for the EX version. Definitely don’t want to wait that long!

This is awesome intel! How come you got both the SL/AM and regulator? Any you prefer?

I ride the SL/AM primarily, as the full 29" setup gets me to trails faster. I take the Regulator SX when I drive to bike parks, as the mullet setup is more lively on berms and jumps. It's great to shuttle quickly back uphill with an eMTB and get in 2-3 times the runs as I could with an analog. If I could only have one, I'd keep the SL/AM because it's great to use as an everyday bike, and it's almost as fun on park terrain.

 

[Stihldog]

Just left the local Bike Shop (Trek) and had a look at the Fuel+ on the floor.


$11 K.
And a TQ60 Gravel bike.

 

[B Rabbit]

I'd go a Teewing with a lighter build (maybe a 600w battery). You could probably get it to 20kg-ish and you'll can just turn the power down for 90% of the time and its there if you need it.
I think its harder to justify these mid power bikes now giving the negligible weight difference.

Edit- sorry, missed you had ruled out the Amflow type bikes, I still reckon they are worth a look. Plus should be some more options dropping after Seaotter

 

[Kalamalka]

I'd go a Teewing with a lighter build (maybe a 600w battery). You could probably get it to 20kg-ish and you'll can just turn the power down for 90% of the time and its there if you need it.
I think its harder to justify these mid power bikes now giving the negligible weight difference.

Edit- sorry, missed you had ruled out the Amflow type bikes, I still reckon they are worth a look. Plus should be some more options dropping after Seaotter

I really don’t want those DJI-style motors, I know I won’t like it! Tried on at a local store. I think its great it exists, it just isn’t what i’m looking for.

 

[Kalamalka]

Just left the local Bike Shop (Trek) and had a look at the Fuel+ on the floor.

View attachment 180047
$11 K.
And a TQ60 Gravel bike.

View attachment 180048

Thanks! I just think the build spec on the 9.7 are pretty shit… called around and the wait times for the exe’s (9.8 and up) are now 2-6 months!

 

[Scott_123]

I’m ready to buy a new ebike but I’m struggling to find what I need. Have a minor medical condition that requires me to have some e-bike assistance at times (not all the time). I need that little bit of extra, but don’t want or need full power. Weigh about 135-140lbs, do still like a bit of a workout.

I like bikes that feel natural. Ride in Whistler, Squamish, Vancouver, mainly stick to black tech. Lots of technical climbs. Don’t ride with other ebikers.

Had the 2025 Rise and I did not like it. It felt like a tank, I don’t like the feel of Shimano (noisy, clunky, too boosty) or their terrible app.

Tried a Yeti MTE but it is way too heavy and bulky for me.

Interested in the Rallon RS but while I can afford it, the price just doesnt seem right.

Don’t mind the Fuel+, but the arched top tube is kinda ugly in the medium. In general, love the TQ motor. I’m looking for lightweight and quiet over range.

Don’t like those massive downtubes, like the yeti mte was much bigger in real life. Not interested in Amflow type bikes.

So bikes I’m considering:

Pivot Shuttle XT
$9500cad

Heckler SL
$11.5k

Transition Regulator
$11k

Fuel+
$12k

Propain Shresh
Build below 9-10K but, shipping to Canada would bring it closer to the others with duties and taxes. Plus warranty would be a hassle.

I love the Heckler but really quite worried about Fazua… and it seems quite old tech/unreliable. But dealers for all these bikes are near.

Did I forget options?! Any real life comparisons/similar experiences people have here?

Not sure why people need to spend so much money on an SL EMTB. I’ve had this one for over 2,000 miles and runs the same as when new. The spec and the SRAM GX drive make this an awesome bargain.
—> Spectral:ONfly CF CLLCTV

 

[Kalamalka]

Not sure why people need to spend so much money on an SL EMTB. I’ve had this one for over 2,000 miles and runs the same as when new. The spec and the SRAM GX drive make this an awesome bargain.
—> Spectral:ONfly CF CLLCTV

Can’t get those in Canada.

 

[Scott_123]

Can’t get those in Canada.

Whoops, sorry

 

[nickf]

Just left the local Bike Shop (Trek) and had a look at the Fuel+ on the floor.

View attachment 180047
$11 K.

Assume that's Canadian dollars, so 7K euros. That EX 9.7 model is 6K euros here in France!

 

[Christian050567]

YT Decoy SN. For me one of the best.With Fazua motor.
But I do not know if they are available in Canada.

 

[CaulPete233]

I’m ready to buy a new ebike but I’m struggling to find what I need. Have a minor medical condition that requires me to have some e-bike assistance at times (not all the time). I need that little bit of extra, but don’t want or need full power. Weigh about 135-140lbs, do still like a bit of a workout.

I like bikes that feel natural. Ride in Whistler, Squamish, Vancouver, mainly stick to black tech. Lots of technical climbs. Don’t ride with other ebikers.

Had the 2025 Rise and I did not like it. It felt like a tank, I don’t like the feel of Shimano (noisy, clunky, too boosty) or their terrible app.

Tried a Yeti MTE but it is way too heavy and bulky for me.

Interested in the Rallon RS but while I can afford it, the price just doesnt seem right.

Don’t mind the Fuel+, but the arched top tube is kinda ugly in the medium. In general, love the TQ motor. I’m looking for lightweight and quiet over range.

Don’t like those massive downtubes, like the yeti mte was much bigger in real life. Not interested in Amflow type bikes.

So bikes I’m considering:

Pivot Shuttle XT
$9500cad

Heckler SL
$11.5k

Transition Regulator
$11k

Fuel+
$12k

Propain Shresh
Build below 9-10K but, shipping to Canada would bring it closer to the others with duties and taxes. Plus warranty would be a hassle.

I love the Heckler but really quite worried about Fazua… and it seems quite old tech/unreliable. But dealers for all these bikes are near.

Did I forget options?! Any real life comparisons/similar experiences people have here?

I have had the Heckler SL since the end of December, done 35 hrs so far. I find the Fazua motor incredibly quiet, and very smooth. I love it so far.
Only minor problem, now eliminated with a firmware update - has been a reluctance to startup without a firm lift and drop at the front wheel. No problem at all now. I am 70kg on a medium-size frame, 67yo, and it's great. AUD $10K.
Peter H

 

[wilsonm73]

I’m ready to buy a new ebike but I’m struggling to find what I need. Have a minor medical condition that requires me to have some e-bike assistance at times (not all the time). I need that little bit of extra, but don’t want or need full power. Weigh about 135-140lbs, do still like a bit of a workout.

I like bikes that feel natural. Ride in Whistler, Squamish, Vancouver, mainly stick to black tech. Lots of technical climbs. Don’t ride with other ebikers.

Had the 2025 Rise and I did not like it. It felt like a tank, I don’t like the feel of Shimano (noisy, clunky, too boosty) or their terrible app.

Tried a Yeti MTE but it is way too heavy and bulky for me.

Interested in the Rallon RS but while I can afford it, the price just doesnt seem right.

Don’t mind the Fuel+, but the arched top tube is kinda ugly in the medium. In general, love the TQ motor. I’m looking for lightweight and quiet over range.

Don’t like those massive downtubes, like the yeti mte was much bigger in real life. Not interested in Amflow type bikes.

So bikes I’m considering:

Pivot Shuttle XT
$9500cad

Heckler SL
$11.5k

Transition Regulator
$11k

Fuel+
$12k

Propain Shresh
Build below 9-10K but, shipping to Canada would bring it closer to the others with duties and taxes. Plus warranty would be a hassle.

I love the Heckler but really quite worried about Fazua… and it seems quite old tech/unreliable. But dealers for all these bikes are near.

Did I forget options?! Any real life comparisons/similar experiences people have here?

Revel ReRun is on sale.

 

[wilsonm73]

I’m ready to buy a new ebike but I’m struggling to find what I need. Have a minor medical condition that requires me to have some e-bike assistance at times (not all the time). I need that little bit of extra, but don’t want or need full power. Weigh about 135-140lbs, do still like a bit of a workout.

I like bikes that feel natural. Ride in Whistler, Squamish, Vancouver, mainly stick to black tech. Lots of technical climbs. Don’t ride with other ebikers.

Had the 2025 Rise and I did not like it. It felt like a tank, I don’t like the feel of Shimano (noisy, clunky, too boosty) or their terrible app.

Tried a Yeti MTE but it is way too heavy and bulky for me.

Interested in the Rallon RS but while I can afford it, the price just doesnt seem right.

Don’t mind the Fuel+, but the arched top tube is kinda ugly in the medium. In general, love the TQ motor. I’m looking for lightweight and quiet over range.

Don’t like those massive downtubes, like the yeti mte was much bigger in real life. Not interested in Amflow type bikes.

So bikes I’m considering:

Pivot Shuttle XT
$9500cad

Heckler SL
$11.5k

Transition Regulator
$11k

Fuel+
$12k

Propain Shresh
Build below 9-10K but, shipping to Canada would bring it closer to the others with duties and taxes. Plus warranty would be a hassle.

I love the Heckler but really quite worried about Fazua… and it seems quite old tech/unreliable. But dealers for all these bikes are near.

Did I forget options?! Any real life comparisons/similar experiences people have here?

You might also consider the newest Levo SL with the 50nm motor. They can be under 40lbs. I demo’d a Devinci E Troy Lite. I like the Bosch SX a lot. I know some don’t. I’m moving down from a full power bike and looking for something that feels more like a regular bike. I hate the weight of my Levo Carbon Expert.