The new Rockrider E-ACTV 500 from Decathlon is said to be suitable for everything from “urban asphalt jungles to rugged wilderness trails”. A fully equipped e-bike with a step-through comfort frame, which — typical of the France-based direct seller — is offered at an appealing price.
This new product expands Decathlon’s already extensive range of interesting e-bikes: last year, the company introduced two great bikes, the lightweight Speed 900E Connect single-speed bike and the innovative Elops LD920 E, and previously presented the Elops LD500E (which we tested here) and the R500E cargo bike. Interestingly, all models use a different electric drive system, and the new Rockrider E-ACTV 500 is no exception.
The new model uses a well-proven Yamaha PW-C2 mid-drive motor, which offers a torque of 55 Nm. This is certainly sufficient power for the bike for urban use and touring (and is therefore on a par with the new SX motor or the popular ActiveLine drive from Bosch). The battery also offers a reasonable capacity of 504 Wh and can be removed for easy handling for charging. A compact button and a display are installed on the handlebars to control the electric drive. Here you will also find the gearshift for the 8-speed derailleur gear system, which comes from MicroShift. Ready to ride, the weight of the bike is said to be 24.5 kg. Not light, but considering the equipment and the price, this is certainly acceptable.
The equipment includes not only the commuter equipment of mudguards, integrated lighting system (note the rear light in the mudguard) and kickstand, but also a Suntour SF15 NEX-E25 suspension fork with 63 mm travel and a height-adjustable stem. The bike is slowed down by Tektro branded hydraulic disc brakes, while the tires are from Decathlon’s own brand, are 47 mm wide and offer puncture protection. Thanks to possible connectivity with the free Decathlon Ride app, statistics and details such as distance, route, support modes used and other performance data can also be called up.
A pannier rack is available as an optional accessory and will be available from May 2024. Also of interest to many: from summer 2024, the bike will also be available in a version with a high top tube. The price for this should then be at the same level as the low-entry version that is already available, and at 1,999 euros is quite attractive! Interested parties can choose between three frame sizes and the two fashionable colors laurel green and neon lavender. The Decathlon Rockrider E-ACTV 500 can be ordered directly here in Decathlon’s online store, home delivery costs 25 euros, alternatively you can have the bike delivered free of charge to your nearest Decathlon store for collection.
