Trek has unveiled additions to its 29in wheeled, all-electric mountain bike line-up today, releasing the all-new Trek 2020 Rail – a “long-travel e-MTB for hard-charging trail riders” – along with new Trek 2020 Powerfly Hardtail models “built for adventure-minded off-road riders who want to explore more”.
New Rail and Powerfly Hardtail models feature Bosch’s all-new Performance Line CX drive system, which is significantly smaller and lighter than its predecessor and offers far less drag and pedalling resistance than previously found.
Trek 2020 Rail
Trek’s Rail is said to be “a wildly capable e-MTB that rips just as hard as its non-electric brethren, then powers you back up the mountain, no lift ticket necessary.”
The numbers seem to back that up, with modern geometry and a pretty burly build – Every model is built with a 160 mm fork and 150 mm of rear travel, and select models have a RE:aktiv with Thru Shaft shock that gives you more capability in rough terrain. This was first seen on the new Trek Fuel EX launched last month.
Rail models are built with parts chosen specifically for e-MTB use. All forks have beefier legs and they have persuaded Rockshox to oversize the fork crowns so they won’t flex under hard riding. Every model features four-piston hydraulic disc brakes and 12-speed Eagle drivetrains.
Rail features Trek’s exclusive Removable Integrated Battery (RIB) system, which integrates the battery into the frame for protection and gives you easy, tool-free, drive-side access. Most models come with a bigger 625 Wh battery for better range and a longer time between charges.
Rail is available in OCLV Mountain Carbon and Alpha Aluminium options, and most models should be available shortly. Prices for the Rail range between £4,999.99 RRP and £11,999.99, with Rail 5 and Rail 9.9 at either end of the spectrum.
Trek 2020 Powerfly
The new Powerfly hardtail is the all-singing trail hardtail of the pair of new machines. It shares the same compact and lightweight Bosch Performance CX drive system as the all-new Rail, as well as the giant removable battery. Again, some models will come with the larger 625 W/hr battery. All bikes come with a 120mm fork and modern geometry. Bikes will start at a reasonable £2500 and rise to around £4500 for the full carbon job.
So, all in all, lots of exciting new stuff from Trek’s e-division – and we hope to get one in to review on Singletrack Charged very soon. But which one would you be more interested in seeing? The more affordable 2020 Powerfly hardtail or the big trail 2020 Rail? It’s a tough call…
In the meantime, have a look at Trek Bikes for more details on this pair…