Carbon. Gravel. Power. Range. Revolution
The open road calls, not just any road, but those less traveled, rugged paths where adventure awaits. Picture the thrill of cycling on a gravel path, feeling the crunch beneath your wheels, the thrill of conquering terrains and landscapes that were once a challenge, and the joy of reaching destinations faster than ever. The Moots Express promises to be the answer to such dreams.
Now, while the romanticism of cycling has always enticed many of us, let's be honest: the idea of battling daunting hills and the constraints of daylight can be off-putting. But the Express is designed to turn those formidable bike rides into pleasure trips. By effectively putting the wind at your back, the rides are no longer battles but delightful adventures. Twenty miles in limited daylight? Not a problem anymore.
Colorado's pride, Moots, renowned for its high-end titanium bicycles, has taken an audacious leap into the world of carbon fiber with their Express model. They’ve traded in their signature titanium for a lighter and equally robust carbon fiber frame, which is a departure from tradition, but it makes sense. In their own words, using titanium to house the ebike's large battery and powerful drive unit would compromise the characteristic ride quality Moots is famous for. And let's face it, an ebike's strength lies in its balance of performance and weight. At a feathery 33lbs for a medium size, they seem to have struck that balance perfectly.
Designed in the picturesque Steamboat Springs, the Express is a class 3, pedal-assist e-bike. This beauty's heart is the Shimano EP801 drive unit, allowing riders to sustain assist speeds up to 28mph, powered by a reliable 504Wh Shimano battery. This promises a substantial range, with the possibility of covering over 100 miles on a single charge in its Eco assist mode. And the fact that you can seamlessly shift between five assist modes means you are in control of your ride, every pedal of the way.
With the Express, Moots has looked beyond just the core technology. Integrated fender mounts, a neat charging door on the seat tube, and an easy-access battery removal system all show meticulous attention to detail. It's a perfect blend of performance and aesthetics.
Inspired by the Routt family and the adventure prowess of the Baxter, the Express might just be the future of gravel cycling, combining the thrill of the sport with the assistance of technology. The decision to transition from titanium to carbon for this model isn't just a change of material; it’s a declaration of intent, showcasing Moots' commitment to evolution and innovation.
Now, premium adventures do come with a premium price tag. At $9,999, the Moots Express is a significant investment. But for those who live for the thrill of the ride, who believe in mixing endurance with assistance, and who value impeccable design combined with performance, this might just be the bike of your dreams.
So, if the gravel paths are beckoning and you're looking to answer that call with a blend of power, range, and capability, let the Express be your companion on those journeys. After all, why just ride when you can express?
Pros:
- Extended Range: With a 504Wh Shimano battery, the Moots Express offers a 100-mile range on a single charge in Eco assist mode, making long journeys feasible.
- Lightweight: At 33lbs for a medium-sized frame, the carbon fiber build provides a lightweight solution compared to many e-bikes in the market.
- Pedal-Assist Technology: The Shimano EP801 drive unit offers pedal assistance up to 28mph, ensuring riders can tackle varying terrains with ease.
- Integrated Design: Features like fender mounts, concealed wires, and an integrated cockpit through the MOD series stem offer a sleek and clutter-free design.
- Flexible Assist Modes: Riders can easily shift between five assist modes, ensuring control over their riding experience based on terrain and personal preference.
- Durability and Quality: Leveraging Moots’ expansive history in bike manufacturing and their commitment to quality, there's an assurance of a well-built and durable product.
- Safety and Serviceability: Using recognized components like the Shimano battery means that servicing and replacements are easily accessible.
- Attention to Detail: Features like the neat charging door on the seat tube and easy battery removal system highlight the thought put into user experience.
Cons:
- High Price Point: Priced at $9,999, the Moots Express is a significant investment, possibly making it inaccessible for many potential buyers.
- Material Shift: Traditionalists who loved Moots for their titanium bikes might be wary of their move to carbon fiber.
- Niche Audience: Designed primarily for gravel riding, it might not be the best fit for city commuters or those looking for multi-purpose bikes.
- Battery Dependent: Like all e-bikes, once the battery runs out, it operates as a regular bike, which, given the additional components and technology, might feel bulkier than a standard bike.
$9,999
