Silent and automatic! Our TEST of the Propain Ekano 2 with SRAM autoshift (VIDEO) – eBike – Moto.it

If we were to rely on specifications alone, Propain would have introduced an EMTB that sets new standards in terms of technology and performance. But what is the reality? Let’s find out in this review of their first electric bike with automatic transmission

June 11, 2024

Reading the technical sheet of the new Propain Ekano 2 we were surprised. The bike equipped with the SRAM propulsion system really seems to offer us a new standard in terms of technology and performance, moreover at a price which – compared to the category – seems competitive. But will it be true? Or where is the thing? The only way to find out is to try!

Propane Ekano 2

Ekano 2 specifications

To be honest, as Propain is an online brand with in-store support, it’s not that easy to try one of these bikes. Luckily, at the Enduro World Series in Finale Ligure, Propain was there and we managed to have some good time with the Ekano 2. Let’s be real, there aren’t many e-bikes with SRAM motor systems Right now. We are in a transition phase and more brands need to come together for the mass market to benefit.

What makes EKANO 2 special?

Could we talk about the carbon frame, the all-SRAM gear and motor kit or the possible battery extension? There’s also the mullet wheel setup and 170mm of premium Rockshox suspension. But the most important thing is how it all works together! This motorcycle is equipped with automatic gear shifting, the gearbox and engine work together and know what is happening. Key to it all is the six-point sensor on the rear wheel and the SRAM T-Type shifting system, which can shift gears under load. These components communicate with the motor which, depending on the rider’s speed and other factors, can change gears autonomously when going uphill or downhill (without pedaling). Bright!

The bikes can be ordered online, at very competitive prices (for the category) and for Italy the dealer will benefit from installation and after-sales assistance.

DATA SHEET:

Frame – Full Carbon 160mm rear fork – ZEB Ultimate Ammo – Vivid Ultimate wheels – Newman Evolution motor – SRAM 90 NM 250w motor Battery – SRAM 630 Wh gears – SRAM XO Eagle 12v T-Type brakes – SRAM Code RSC Price – €9999 (tested) ) (Base price and €7794) Seat post – Rockshox Reverb Wireless

On the road

This is the third bike with autoshift that we have had the opportunity to try and the management software is improving!

Climb: Calculates the speed and angle of the climb, as well as the rider’s torque on the pedals, and specifies a ratio based on the rider’s cadence setting level, from -3 to +3. We found it to be accurate 80-90% of the time and only had to intervene a few times.

Downhill: Depending on the rider’s speed, the system selects the correct gear for a cadence and even if the rider is not pedaling, the motor can accelerate and select the gear. So when you pedal, the bike is in the right gear. It also allows the rider to select a set speed to maintain balance in the saddle, and not pedal to make changes, only when necessary. Very clever.

Other components of the bike, including the suspension and high-performance wheels, gave us confidence and comfort on some very difficult trails. The 630Wh battery life is good and can be increased with an extension cord which we didn’t use. You can also tune the motor with an app to increase power or range accordingly. The most notable riding sensation on our first ride was how neutral the bike was in some difficult trail conditions and how completely quiet it was even over rough terrain.

Propane Ekano 2

Conclusions

During our first riding experience, we found the Ekano 2 a very interesting bike. We love how powerful and quiet the SRAM system is. Autoshift is a feature that can be disabled, but we didn’t disable it and found it to be effective 80-90% of the time, which, considering the system can’t see the track, is impressive. Manual override is only necessary if you change your mind or if the trail has very specific conditions that a human can see and a machine cannot. This system, combined with the correct neutral riding geometry in difficult conditions, gives you an ideal EMTB for the passionate cyclist and considering the prices of this high-end model, they are very acceptable compared to the competition.