"Not like an e-bike. More like an enduro - with hidden superpowers."

A day full of atmosphere in the mountains of Disentis, Switzerland — challenging trails, steep climbs, and right in the middle of it all, two seasoned riders: Ralph Näf, professional mountain bike team coach, and Nicole Tschenett, passionate trail rider and mountain bike guide. Their mission: to put the new maxon BIKEDRIVE AIR S to the test on the trails.

In the interview, they share what makes this drive system so special, who it’s designed for, and why it has the potential to reshape the world of e-MTBs.

What makes the maxon BIKEDRIVE AIR S so special?

Ralph:
“The overall weight of the e-bike with the maxon BIKEDRIVE AIR S has a huge impact on how it rides. It doesn’t feel like a heavy e-bike - more like a real mountain bike: light, nimble, and agile. Yet it still packs impressive power. Visually, you’d hardly recognize it as an e-bike.”

Nicole:
“For me, the handling and weight are absolutely unique. It doesn’t feel like a typical e-MTB. And the power when you first push the pedals? Surprisingly strong. I never expected that.”

Ride feel and performance: How does the maxon system handle on the trail?

Ralph:
“The bike feels playful and light. Exactly what I love as a sporty rider. The power delivery is intense, which actually makes handling even easier. It’s super controllable on technical sections and steep climbs.”

Nicole:
“The low weight combined with 90 Nm of torque really makes you want more: more uphill, more grip, more control on the descents. It’s a dream in tight switchbacks. The rear wheel moves effortlessly.”

And what about battery range? The maxon AIR S comes with 400 Wh or 600 Wh options.

Ralph:
“We managed about 1,000 meters of elevation gain with around 350 Wh. With 400 Wh, you can go far enough. Personally, I’d love 500 Wh, but only if it doesn’t add weight.”

Nicole:
“For sporty evening rides or half-day tours, the battery is more than enough. And if it does run out, the bike pedals surprisingly well even without support.”

Who is the new maxon e-bike drive system for?

Ralph:
“For sporty riders who love the feel of a traditional bike but appreciate a bit of support. Whether for training or longer tours.”

Nicole:
“Perfect for anyone looking for an all-mountain bike with great handling and low weight, especially those who’ve been thinking about getting an e-bike for a while.”

A gamechanger for the market?

Ralph:
“This combination of system weight and performance is hard to beat. In my opinion, the future belongs to lightweight e-bikes.”

Nicole:
“I was really positively surprised. The motor is powerful, super quiet, and barely noticeable. A gamechanger? Maybe not just yet. But definitely a very ‘nice tool to have.’”

A look into the future…

Ralph:
“Batteries and motors are getting lighter which makes bikes even sportier. In cycling, it’s all about weight and performance.”

Nicole:
“High-performance motors with as little weight as possible, that’s the trend. Will lightweight e-MTBs catch on? Hard to say. But they’re definitely an exciting addition - maybe even the new standard.”