Gas MXC 5 – Australian Mountain Bike

The Gas Gas MXC 5 is a remarkable entry into the world of e-bikes, combining the rugged performance and ease of use of SRAM's Powertrain Motor and premium suspension. As part of Spain's gas bike manufacturer Gas Gas' entry into the electric Mountain bike market, the MXC range aims to bridge the gap between their gas-powered off-road machines and the developing and growing electric bike market.

The MXC 5 sports a design that reflects its off-road DNA. With its full carbon frame offering very clean lines and size-specific rear triangles, its clear Gas Gas has done its homework working with the design team at international design agency Kiska to reduce production costs and waste. What this means to the consumer is a bad and long-forgotten concept in cycling: value for money or bang for buck. This is seen in both Gas Gas MXC and ECC where the same frame is used with different properties in it to create a different price point.

The MXC and ECC ranges both feature a distinctive Gas Red look (as a nod to the company's moto roots; a removable protective cover over the top tube), which gives you a striking look that stands out on the track and is minimal. more protection. This is featured in all sizes with a style called the Swoosh. Kiska has produced a second livery option for the Gas Gas that I personally like called the Blade, and I wouldn't be surprised if it comes out as an aftermarket option down the track and decal kits to keep things looking clean and unique like the world of the moto.

Build quality is impressive on the MXC 5, with attention to detail evident in high-end components including collaborations with House Moto Suspension brand WP and boutique brand DVO. Using a chassis from DVO in the form of the Onyx and Topaz forks, the shock team at WP set to work incorporating valve cone technology into these units and creating the first line of WP bike suspensions. The cone valve technology helps you stay high at the start of the ride while still providing you with minimal bump absorption, which—given the extra weight of the e-bike—is convenient for performance and useful for setup. The MXC5 also features a host of components from SRAM including the GX Eagle Transmission which allows for unmatched shifting under power in any gear.

This goes hand in hand with the very thing that makes the MXC an e-bike, the new SRAM Powertrain engine. Putting out 90NM of torque, the 250w drive unit with juice from this small 630wh battery uses increased cell density to reduce volume and weight, and helps to lower the center of gravity and create a fun and playful feel for the MCX. width.

The Powertrain unit itself is unique and offers all kinds of customization including coast shifting so you can shift whenever you want, brake, roll….yes even cruise! There is also an auto shift mode that uses rider input to shift just like an automatic car does, we will go into these features and more on the SRAM Powertrain unit in a dedicated article.

My time so far on the MXC 5 has been great….and what I have found is that the bike is incredibly fun and balanced. We've pushed the bike, tires, suspension and motor to the limit, so stay tuned for a full review coming soon in issue #210.