The AM 8.7.1 GTF E-all mountain bike is the top model of the E-Inception range with Bosch drive unit, it builds on a lightweight carbon frame in sporty-agile GTF geometry, the Bosch 750 Wh battery is permanently installed in the frame for weight reasons, however it can be removed by a specalist shop if needed. "This makes it possible to design the down tube conventionally despite the long battery, as additional brackets for the mechanical release could be omitted. This saves weight and allows traditional, proven frame designs down to the smallest sizes," say the test editors of EMTB-News.de.
Part of the drive unit is also the proven Bosch Performance Line CX motor with a maximum torque of 85 Nm as well as clever Smart System integration. "The Smart System brings connectivity to the E-MTB. With the Kiox 300 display and the matching handlebar remote control, numerous riding data can be collected and evaluated on the road. These are shared with the smartphone via the Bluetooth interface and, if desired, processed in Bosch's eBike Flow app. A great thing if you want to analyse your tours accurately and conveniently," the test editors are pleased to report. And further: "The display [...] is absolutely top, as it is excellent to read. The menus are simple and clearly designed [...] and the contrast of the colour display is perfect for outdoor use. The fit on the mount and the mechanical lock are also perfect for use on an E-MTB. Nothing wobbles or rattles here."
The current Bosch system also knows how to impress the EMTB-News.de testers on the trail. "Where the Smart System can really convince and thus forms the benchmark of the E-Performance class is the interaction of motor and battery. [...] On our test rides, Bosch always impresses with its strikingly long range, paired with above-average altitude metres at maximum support."
To make the most of this, the E-Inception AM 8.7.1 GTF has a frame geometry adapted to the mixed mullet-wheel combo. "Stevens places the smaller rear wheel in a rear triangle with a fairly short 450 mm chainstay. The four-link rear end transfers forces into a shock placed upright, parallel to the seat tube.
These rear end attributes ensure that the full motor power of the high-torque Bosch Performance CX drive can be fully appreciated. Even with the compression open, the shock keeps the rear end tight during powerful pedalling, preventing the rear from dipping too much or even sagging." And the tuning of the front set-up also results in superior handling in the uphill: "This is complemented by the steep seat angle, which positions the rider's weight balance centrally in the E-MTB. The front thus remains on the ground for a long time, even with maximum motor support, right up to the limit of what can be ridden. This means that e-bike and drive harmonise perfectly with each other and make it [...] easy to implement [the] desired line.
The powerful uphill performance is also supported by the SRAM GX shifting system of the AXS series. The shifting "... transmits gear changes quickly and reliably via radio from the shift lever to the rear derailleur. With the 12-speed cassette and the largest sprocket on it with 52 teeth, it goes forward with an efficient pedal up to speeds of about 7 km/h," say the test riders.
The AM 8.7.1 GTF also convinces downhill. "The E-Inception in the all-mountain version is clearly designed for fun in the downhill line due to its design as a Mullet-E-MTB. Especially [...] in rougher conditions, such as rock-blocked sections of the S2 category, the Stevens offers a great performance. Apply the brakes and stay on it is the motto! The grippy Schwalbe tyres with a reinforced carcass generate a lot of grip and thus ensure a safe riding experience [...]. The Fox suspension with 150 mm travel absorbs bumps well. The response is sensitive, the progression towards the end of the travel clearly noticeable".
As a full-blown performance E-MTB, the powerful motor and high-capacity battery are reflected in the weight, but the sophisticated frame geometry and 29"/27.5" mullet wheel mix know how to compensate for this. "The mixed-wheel system is a great recipe for having a lot of fun on the trail. It's almost playful to guide the E-Inception over winding trails or to push it crisply through natural, fast bends. The agility of the 25-kg behemoth is [...] quite surprising, as its handling is reminiscent of a lighter model," are the pleasing findings of the test editors.
But the E-Inception AM 8.7.1 GTF doesn't just cut a fine figure on both sides of the mountain. The EMTB-News.de editorial team says: "The E-Inception also does well for classic touring. The rather upright, short riding position is pleasant. The steep seat angle makes pedalling enduring and comfortable".
Thus, the STEVENS E-Inception AM 8.7.1 GTF is convincing all along the line. "The E-Inception AM is made for almost any type of terrain. With the strong and efficient Bosch system, it goes uphill reliably and economically. Downhill, Fox's 150 mm suspension delivers, complemented by the Mix wheel concept."
The full test including video review can be found here.