If you’re really interested in technology, you’re probably stoked that e-bikes are bringing some cool new ideas to the marketplace. Even if you’re adamantly against assisted pedalling, it’s pretty nifty to see how companies like Stromer are incorporating electronic features into modern bicycles. Without electronic components it would be tough to make a bike that allows you to ride longer distances, let alone one that tracks your ride stats, monitors service intervals, or hosts anti-theft features.
Swiss e-bike manufacturer Stromer seems quite pleased with itself to announce the availability in the US of their new top of the line ST2 S e-bike. The S model has seen a few upgrades over the base ST2, including XTR Di2 wireless electronic shifting, a 20% larger battery with a range up to 110 miles, and an integrated 1600 lumen Supernova headlight.
But all of this technical innovation certainly does not come cheap, and considering the bike’s overall heft the and lack of a carbon frame, it seems the electronics are largely what you’re paying for…
The newest Stromer is powered by a 48 volt, 500 watt SYNO rear hub motor that provides 35 Nm of torque. The ST2 S is billed as a pedal-assist bike, but in ‘move’ mode it will help you achieve speeds up to 28mph at three different power levels… However, there is also a ‘boost’ mode which allows you to cruise at 12mph without even pedalling. The 983 watt-hour lithium-ion battery sits in the down tube and provides an impressive range of up to 110 miles per charge, partly by using regenerative braking out back to juice itself up as you come to a stop.
The Stromer’s frame is made from 6061 Aluminum, and it comes paired with a Stromer ST2 carbon fork. Despite using these lightweight materials, the e-bike’s 11 lbs of battery, hub motor, and electronics bring the bike’s total weight to a portly 57.5 lbs. Don’t worry, you aren’t likely to catch this one on your trails. The battery pack takes five hours to charge, and can be plugged in while still in the bike or removed and placed in its own charger unit. The battery is warrantied for 1000 charge cycles.
One of Stromer’s unique innovations is their cloud-based platform called Omni. Using the Stromer Mobile App riders can connect their bike to a smartphone (Android or iOS) and control various features or check up on their bike’s stats. On the bike itself, a touch-screen interface on the top tube allows you to control the electronic functions and access ride data collected by an on-board GPS tracker.
For dealers, the web-based Stromer Portal site keeps track of each bike, allowing them to analyze and configure each customer’s ST2 S, track services and maintenance, and access ride data like mileage, etc. The portal also connects bike shops to technical support from Big Brother Stromer’s staff.
One cool feature of the ST2 S is its anti-theft mode. If the bike is disturbed, it causes the lights to flash but more importantly puts the hub motor into theft mode, which makes it nearly impossible to pedal. If the bike still gets stolen, it can be located using the GPS.
Component wise, a Shimano XTR Di2 group wirelessly shifts through the bike’s 1×11 drivetrain. The ST2 S rides on a 26” DT Swiss wheelset with Continental Top Contact II tires, and Magura’s MT5 hydraulic disc brakes bring it to a stop. The S model also comes with matching alloy fenders.
In addition to the built-in daytime running light on the head tube, a handlebar-mounted 1600 lumen Supernova M99 Pro headlight offers plenty of illumination. There’s also a USB charge port for your mobile devices, and an LED brake light on the rear fender.
Stromer’s ST2 S frames are available in 17”, 20” or 22” sizes, and come in grey only. The ST2 S is available at select retailers for $9500 USD. Oh, and you might want to check your local e-bike regulations – in tiny text at the bottom of Stromer’s website you’ll find this disclaimer:
“*May require insurance and a license plate, depending on country.”
UPDATE: Stromer recently decided to put the ST2 S to the test by having two riders attempt the first stage of the Amgen Tour of California on a single battery charge. Spoiler alert- both riders did finish the 106 mile long course with juice to spare, but you can check it out in the short video below.
