Orange Bikes set out to create a new trail-focused e-MTB package, and just announced the 27.5”-wheeled, 150mm-travel Charger. As part of their E.P.O. (Electric Powered Orange) series, it uses the high-torque Shimano STEPS E8000 system and 504Wh battery for long range and trail-tackling pedal assist.
2020 Orange Charger trail e-MTB line-up
The Charger starts off with a UK-made aluminum frame with an all-new narrowed downtube design. Using 27.5″ wheels, it has all of the features you’d expect in a modern mountain bike – stealth dropper routing, internal routing, and even unconventional raised chainstays to eliminate chain slap.
That downtube handles the hefty 504Wh Shimano e-bike battery, which can be removed with the turn of a key for quick charging.
The frame is based around a 150mm front fork and 145mm travel rear shock, putting it in the trail or all-mountain category. Orange wanted the Charger to be noticeably livelier then their Surge model, and adjusted the suspension kinematics with a more progressive leverage ratio. It uses a single pivot design for simplicity and serviceability.
All frame sizes of the Charger come with 27.5” wheels, along with Boost spacing front and rear.
The geometry of the Charger is quite a bit different than the Surge, with seat tube and head tube angles made one degree steeper. They also lowered the bottom bracket, aiming to keep the bike nimble.
There are four spec levels available, all with nine color and three decal choices.
- Charger S starting at £5,500
- Charger Pro starting at £6,300
- Charger RS starting at £6,800
- Charger Factory starting at £7,700
The Charger is available now through Orange dealers, and carries a five year frame warranty.
