It seems as if the outdoor and sports equipment distributor Decathlon is becoming more and more interested in the field of bicycles and e-bikes! Just recently, they caused a stir with the BTWIN LD920 E, which comes up with a completely new motor with integrated automatic transmission. Previously, we were already convinced by the affordable Elops LD500E, which we tested here in detail. Now the french company continue this series and launch the new Elops Speed 900E Connect, a stylish singlespeed e-bike — as expected, at a very attractive price.
By the way, the 920 series is not completely new at Decathlon — the regular Elops Speed 900 for 470 euros with derailleur gears and the 650 euro Elops Speed 920 with hub gears have already been in the range for some time, which basically form the analog basis for the new e-bike. We have also summarized more information about the Elops 920 in this article.
Mahle’s established drive system at a favorable price
But back to the new Elops Speed 900E Connect. The design with a hub motor in the rear wheel is not very surprising, but the type of motor used causes a stir: instead of the previously used Chinese motors, the drive system from Mahle is used here, consisting of the X35+ motor with its 40 Nm of torque and a battery with a capacity of around 250 Wh, which is permanently installed in the down tube. The system is conveniently controlled from the handlebars, where riding modes and the lighting system can be set.
The 40-lux headlight is centrally located on the handlebars, the compact taillight below the saddle — both components are powered by the bike’s main battery. The same applies to another function, after all, the bike is called Connect: a GPS transmitter is installed in the frame, which allows the bike to be located via smartphone app and you get a warning if the bike is moved by unauthorized persons! This service is free of charge in the first year, after which an inexpensive 2 euros per year will be charged.
Connected features with GPS tracking
The mechanical drivetrain is via a classic bicycle chain, the braking system consists of contemporary hydraulic disc brakes. With a width of 35 mm, the tires are quite narrow and thus fit the sporty character of the bike with its straight top tube and the lightweight carbon fork. Both parts should also contribute to the fact that the total weight of the Elops Speed 900E Connect is quite light at 15 kg!
The fact that the bike is nevertheless designed for everyday use is shown not only by the integrated lighting system, but also by the standard mudguards or the quite minimalist chain guard.
Conclusion
A chic and lightweight singlespeed e-bike that can boast the proven Mahle drive: the Elops Speed 900E Connect offers a lot of equipment for the money, because the price of 1,899 euros is quite reasonable! The bike is available in three frame sizes, but only the black variant shown is available in terms of color. Interested parties can order the new model now directly here on the website of Decathlon!
Alternatives in this price segment are the two models from Tenways: The CGO600 is currently available for only 1,399 Euros (our review here) or the CGO600 Pro with removable battery for 1,799 Euros (our review here). Both lack the tracking function, but they feature a drive with a torque sensor and a clean belt drive.
