Howling in with the 108 Nm torque Dyname 4.0 motor is the Rocky Mountain Blizzard PowerPlay, a Fat eBike with 27.5″ wheels and 4.5″ tires. The new eMTB is of course based on the Blizzard Hardtail, a Fat Bike that has graced the Bikes.com lineup for many years; this is the very first eBike version thereof.
The idea of any amount of motor-assistance for Fat Biking in deepest winter is an attractive one. If the assistance of the motor can help out the rider enough to prevent them from sweating, then that rider stands benefit, staying warmer for longer. Prospective customers may well have concerns around the performance of any motor or battery in very cold conditions, but Rocky Mountain say they have tested the Dyname 4.0 motor in extreme weather conditions – with much success. And, the 720 Wh battery tucked inside this 7005 aluminum frame will function at temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F).
Rocky Mountain says the Blizzard PowerPlay delivers a powerful ride without getting bogged down in deep snow, with unparalleled range. Without further ado, let’s check out the details.
Rocky Mountain Blizzard PowerPlay Fat eBike
- Bike: Rocky Mountain Blizzard PowerPlay
- Intention: Riding anywhere, but especially suited to snowy, sandy or gravel
- Motor: Dyname 4.0
- Battery Capacity: 720 Wh
- Range Extender Capacity: 314 Wh Overtime Pack
- Sizing: SM, MD, LG, XL
- Starting Price:
While the acoustic Blizzard Fat Bike is a full carbon affair, the Blizzard PowerPlay Fat-E is available only in alloy, running a 7005 aluminum tubeset. It is sold with a rigid carbon fork, home to three bosses on either side, ready for the mounting of cages, and other accoutrements. The bike has a total of 15 mounting points, and is thus ready for anything from the straightforward commute to backcountry adventures.
Blizzard Pow(d)erPlay Geometry
Geometrically, the Blizzard PowerPlay is very similar to its non-electric counterpart. The head angle sits at a slack 66°, with the seat tube angle a little more upright at 74°. The rear-center length is 5mm longer at 460mm, with seat tube lengths equivalent, starting at 380mm on the SM, and topping out at 490mm on the XL. All benefit from a dropper seat post.
Reach figures remain generous, spanning a range of 425mm to 500mm. A 475mm reach on the LG is paired with a wheelbase of 1236mm.
Though specced exclusively with a rigid carbon fork, the Blizzard PowerPlay can also take a 100mm travel 27.5″ suspension fork for those looking for an extra plush ride feel. Rocky Mountain confirm the Manitou Mastodon EX 100mm travel fork is compatible with the Blizzard Powerplay. At sag, it will have the same ride height as the rigid fork.
eBike System
Rocky Mountain’s own Dyname 4.0 motor takes charge of assistance. It is one of the most powerful mid-drive eBike motors on the market with a maximum torque of 108 Nm and a maximum power output of 700 W. Assistance is provided up to 350% of the rider’s input.
The removable 720 Wh battery – which benefits from being stored at 10-25°C when not in use – works at temperatures down to -20°C. Below that threshold, the battery will shut itself down to protect itself. When its temperature rises again to -15°C, it will function once more. Even in such chilly conditions, RMB says the battery still delivers around 85% of its full capacity.
A 2 Amp and 4 Amp charger are available to charge the battery off the bike. The former takes a claimed 7 hours and 35 minutes to restore a full charge, while the latter takes a claimed 3 hours and 55 minutes.
Rocky Mountain communicate the battery’s charge status, and the system’s riding mode on their so-called Jumbotron display. It shows speed and cadence information, too. The screen is neatly integrated into the frame’s top tube where it is relatively out of harm’s way. A handlebar mounted remote allows the riders to easily switch between ride modes.
Pricing & Availability
The Rocky Mountain Blizzard PowerPlay is available in two models; the Blizzard PowerPlay 30 MicroShift retailing at $5,249 USD | CAD $6,299, and the Blizzard PowerPlay 50 SRAM, retailing at $6,259 USD | CAD $7,399. Relevant specs below.
The bikes are sold with a 5 year warranty on the frame. Wear components of the Dyname 4.0 motor, such as the pulleys, pinions, transfer chain and bearings have a one year warranty.
