The all-signing all-dancing Nicolai G1 EBOXX e-MTB is back for 2021 with a parts list that will surely make you do a double take. The original Gates Carbon Belt Drive and Rohloff Hub model is still part of the line-up, but Nicolai have added new variants for 2021. Also on offer is a QLF traditional drivetrain option, now with two geometry variants plus an Explorer S-Pedelec option for those who want to commute on their enduro e-MTB.
2021 Nicolai EBOXX e-MTBs
The 2021 Nicolai G1 EBOXX e-MTB is a 160mm travel mullet enduro e-bike and it is, at the very least, deserving of a second look. This Gates Carbon Drive and Rohloff-equipped electric mountain bike was first released in 2019. Despite its much-celebrated progressive geometry from Geometron, the unusual parts list (and price) would have been enough put many riders off.
The more traditional-looking QLF variant debuted in 2020 featured the very same geometry as the original E14, but it got a good old-fashioned chain and derailleur. And, at almost $1500 cheaper, it was also more affordable. The QLF is also back for 2021.
That drivetrain is a SRAM 1 x 11 speed, though Nicolai don’t specify which. Other parts include a Fox 38 fork, Magura MT7 brakes, a Hope wheelset and SQ Lab saddle and grips, and the choice of FOX VAN RC, FOX DHX2, EXT Storia LOK V3 coil shocks.
So what’s new for 2021? Introducing the GT1 EBOXX range…
GT1 EBOXX E-MTBs
The original G1 EBOXX is an aggressive geometry enduro e-mountain bike with the same radical Geolution geometry on which the non-electric Nicolai models are based. While the brand explicitly state that the G1 models are suitable for beginners, they do note that not every rider is looking for a bike with a solid gravity-inclination.
Hence, the birth of the GT1 EBOXX. These variants have a “moderate touring” geometry that allows the rider to adopt a more comfortable and relaxed riding position. No geometry charts for either the 2021 G1 EBOXX or 2021 GT1 EBOXX have yet been published. Likely the latter will have, at the very least, a shorter reach and steeper head angle.
As with the G1 EBOXX, a QLF traditional drivetrain variant will be available in addition to the more expensive Gates-Rohloff E14 version.
Nicolai EBOXX S-Pedelecs
A SPEED S-Pedelec version of the G1 and GT1 EBOXX e-MTBs is available that allows motor assistance up to 45 km/h. These bikes come complete with an Explorer Kit (more on that later), ready to smash the daily commute.
2021 Gen4 Bosch CX Motor
All 2021 Nicolai EBOXX e-MTBs get the 4th Generation Bosch Performance Line CX motor. With a maximum torque of 85Nm, it is their most powerful motor yet, enhancing the rider’s input by 340%. For 2021, the EBOXX range is equipped with a higher capacity battery; the 625 Wh BOSCH Power Tube is tucked into the downtube.
The Bosch Kiox on-board computer serves as the control center for the Nicolai EBOXX models. In addition to the standard functions such as riding mode display, speed, battery charge, distance and range, the gear engaged at any given time is also displayed (on the E14 models). Other information it can display include rider‘s power output in watts as well as HR.
Nicolai also offer the option of choosing the Bosch Nyon as the control center for all EBOXX models, which, in addition to the features of the Kiox, has a trail-ready navigation system based on OpenStreetMap and a variety of extra functions, such as taking altitude profiles into account when calculating range.
The Nyon display also has a touchscreen, and the map can be displayed in either 2D or 3D.
Explorer Kit
For riders who want to use their enduro e-MTB as a commuter bike, an Explorer Kit is available that includes the following:
- SKS mudguards
- Supernova lights
- Abus security lock
- Pletscher side stand
- Tubus luggage rack
- Ortlieb panniers
Pricing & Availability
- G1 EBOXX QLF: 7,599.00€
- G1 EBOXX E14: 9,499.00€
- GT1 EBOXX QLF: 7,599.00€
- GT1 EBOXX E14: 9,499.00€
- G1 EBOXX E14 SPEED: 11,249.00€
- GT1 EBOXX E14 SPEED: 11,249.00€
