While engineers create high-performance carbon frames and deal with complex aerodynamics, we don't bother too much in the entry-level mountain e-bike class. We adhere to the basic principles that distinguish modern electric mountain bikes. The construction is important, it must be modern and strong enough to withstand the full weight of the motor, battery and rider with all the equipment, and at the same time it must be light enough so that the total weight of the bicycle does not increase too much, which could be a bit unpleasant. 

As excited e-biker, I eagerly awaited the release of both the Econo EQUUS MTB C5 and the Cube Reaction Performance. After months of anticipation, I finally had the opportunity to test both e-bikes and compare them side by side. Let's check which electric bike in a more affordable class has better characteristics for the price.

At Econo, we have developed a mountain bike called Equus, which means "horse" in Latin. The bike is designed for off-road as well as road use. It is intended for undemanding users and all cyclists who want to get to know the world of electric bikes and want a reliable and affordable solution for off-road riding.

One of the standout features of the Econo Equus MTB is its powerful Motinova Volnas Plus drive system with a torque of up to 75 Nm, which provides smooth and responsive power. This is coupled with an 870 Wh lithium-ion battery that provides a range of up to 200 km on a single charge, making the Econo Equus MTB a great option for long-distance rides. The Equus MTB is also distinguished by its durable and robust frame, which is designed to withstand tough off-road rides.

In terms of components, the Econo Equus MTB is equipped with a Shimano Deore derailleur that ensures smooth and reliable shifting in all conditions. Comfort is provided by Suntour front suspension and Maxxis tires, which help smooth out rough roads and improve traction.

Overall, the Econo Equus MTB is a great option for riders looking for a reliable and affordable off-road electric bike. Its combination of a powerful motor, long-range battery and high-quality components make it a good choice for riders of all skill levels.

On the other hand, we have the already quite famous Cube Reaction Performance mountain bike, which is also a high-performance electric bike designed for off-road use. It is equipped with a powerful Bosch Performance Line engine with 65Nm of torque and a large 625Wh lithium-ion battery that allows for long drives and plenty of off-road adventures.

One of the outstanding features of the Cube Reaction Performance is its durable and robust design. It's built with high-quality components designed to withstand tough off-road rides, including a strong and lightweight aluminum frame, reliable suspension and durable tires.

In terms of performance, the Cube Reaction Performance can reach speeds of up to 25 km/h, making it a great option for riders looking to explore off-road or simply want to get from A to B quickly and efficiently. Its powerful motor and long-lasting battery make it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced riders.

Finally, the Cube Reaction Performance is a high-performance e-bike perfect for riders looking for a reliable and versatile off-road option. Its combination of strength, durability and performance makes it the perfect choice for riders looking to take their off-road adventures to the next level.

The Econo InTube 870Wh and the Bosch Powertube 625Wh are both high-performance lithium-ion batteries designed for use with electric bikes. Both batteries have a voltage of 36 V and can provide long-term power supply to the motor of the electric bicycle.

However, there are some differences between the two batteries. The Econo InTube 870Wh has a higher capacity than the Bosch Powertube 625Wh. This means that the Econo InTube 870Wh may be able to provide more power and a longer range than the Bosch Powertube 625Wh.

In terms of size and weight, the Econo InTube 870Wh is slightly larger and heavier than the Bosch Powertube 625Wh. This may make it a better option for riders looking for a battery with high capacity and long range, but are willing to accept a slightly larger and heavier battery.

Ultimately, the best battery for your electric bike will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Both the Econo InTube 870Wh and the Bosch Powertube 625Wh are high-quality batteries that can provide long-lasting power to your electric bike's motor, so both would be great choices.

In this test, we will compare the range of two different batteries: one with 625 Wh and the other with 870 Wh. To perform the test, we will first fully charge both batteries and then completely discharge them. We will then measure the distance each battery was able to power the drive on the bike and compare the results. However, since both batteries in Eco and Normal mode have a range of more than 100 km and it takes a whole day to cycle such a route, we will perform the test until 50% of the battery is used up and multiply by two to get the final number of possible kilometers traveled with the entire battery.

First, let's take a look at the 625 Wh battery. This battery has a lower energy storage capacity than the 870 Wh battery, so you'd expect it to have a shorter range. However, device performance and other factors can also affect range, so it's important to run a test to see actual results.

The Bosch battery showed 50% discharge at a distance of 63 km, so the actual distance traveled with a full battery would be 126 km

Then we measure the range of the ECONO InTube 870 Wh battery and find that it could power the device for a distance of 150 km with one charge, as the battery showed 50% discharge at a distance of 75 km.

Overall, the results of this range test show that the 870 Wh battery has a longer range than the 625 Wh battery. This is expected due to higher energy storage capacity, but actual results may vary due to unforeseen factors such as weather change, drive cadence, etc.

I was immediately struck by the elegant design of the Econo EQUUS mtb. Its robust aluminum frame is not only beautiful to look at, but also ensures a smooth and comfortable ride. A 10-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes give this e-bike impressive power and control.

On the other hand, the Cube Reaction Performance has an equally robust and stylish aluminum frame and Shimano Alivio drivetrain. While it doesn't lack the Cube's refinement, it makes up for it with impressive acceleration and handling.

Potem ko sem oba e-kolesa preizkusil na različnih terenih, sem se znašel razpet med obema. ECONO EQUUS mtb ponuja gladko in udobno vožnjo, prav tako Cube in oba sta zanimiva zaradi svojega impresivnega pospeška in vodljivosti.

Cenovno je razlike med njima dobrih 200€. Pri ECONO dobite, novost, kakovost, močnejši motor in močnejšo baterijo, kar prinese k dodatni teži, pri Cube pa dobite leta tradicije in kakovost ter seveda zanesljiv Bosch motor in baterijo.

Na koncu sem ugotovil, da je najboljše e-kolo zame stvar osebnih preferenc oz. katero kolo vam bolj ''pade v oči''. Če cenite udobje, prefinjenost in sta oba kolesa prava izbira, če pa želite karseda čim močnejšo baterijo pa je boljša izbira ECONO Equus. Ne glede na to, katero izberete, z nobenim od teh fantastičnih e-koles ne boste zgrešili.