The PowerFly+range, the essential VTTAE from Trek, enters its 5ᵉ generation. For this update, the manufacturer has really redesigned its electric bike, especially in the semi-rigid version that we decided to test. Indeed, Powerfly+ is available in all suspended, but also in a more “accessible” version which is based on a large fork at the front.
If the high -end model is clearly intended for the enduro, our Powerfly+ 4 plays the card of versatility more. Besides, as we will see, its equipment incorporates many elements of an urban VAE. Does this mean that it is conceivable to use it as an everyday VAE, with a view to “velotaf”, for example. Of course, we also tried this use with the Powerfly+, just as we put it to the test of the trails and the forest. After some outings and more than 200 km of traveled, we are able to deliver our full opinion to you.
Design and geometry: Trek just sees
With this 5ᵉ version of his mountain bike, Trek has not so to speak up with her recipe upset. Nevertheless, on the semi-rigid version that we tested, the manufacturer dared some adjustments, on geometry in particular by making it closer to what it offers on the high-end version. As a result, as we will see later, VTTAE gains dynamism and comfort. Above all, Trek seems to have reached a certain accuracy which gives the user the choice to be more committed to his VTTAE or simply to be carried in walking mode according to the desire of the moment.
We also appreciate the choice to bring down the fairly low diagonal tube, which allows you to maneuver all the more easily. The 29 -inch wheels also contribute to this general bicycle base and the feeling of control which he gives his pilot. To put it clearly, we are very well installed on this PowerFly+.
Finally, the fork (Sr Suntour XCR 34) of 120 mm, even if it does not allow everything to do everything and anything once out of the bitumen, offers enough travel to have fun. In town, it is precious comfort and greatly contributes to driving pleasure.
Finally, a word on the colors offered. There are only two on this new finish of the Powerfly+, all black or this pretty red and black two-tone for which we opted. There too Trek would benefit from expanding its offer, which is somewhat lacking in originality.
Versatile equipment
The equipment of the Powerfly+ 4 is not quite that of a classic VTTAE. In this “team” version that we were able to try, the VAE has optics at the front, a luggage rack and even a crutch. Accessories that certain “mountain bikers” will undoubtedly judge useless but which also make the specificity of this fairly original finish of the Powerfly+ 4. Indeed, in this variation, the Trek mountain biking seems simply cut for the city.
And this goes to the mudguard which cover the wheels on a large surface to protect the pilot from projections.
The rest of the PowerFly+ equipment is more in line with the universe of mountain biking, which allows it to display a hybrid character. Tektro HD-M275 Tektro Hydraulic disc brakes, U6000 (10 speeds) transmission from Shimano, Bontrager LT4 tires and a huge hanger to control the whole.
Finally, we have only one downside on this equipment, but it is size. On this finish, Trek made the choice to do without an essential accessory: the telescopic seatpost. No doubt the manufacturer has judged that this element was not a prerequisite on its entry -level model (the version not equipped with 3,359 euros is not equipped either). It is an error in our opinion which limits the interest of the Powerfly+ 4 when it engages on paths and which forces the user somewhat demanding to put their hands on the wallet.
Finally, you have to keep in mind that with all this equipment, the most equipped of the Trek VTTAE is also the heaviest on the scale since it borders on the 26 kg (25.7 kg precisely).
BOISCH SMART SYSTEM IT 100 NM A VICE
The choice of Trek to move towards a Bosch Performance Line CX engine is no longer logical. The German engine manufacturer still offers the most successful solution on the market and, since this summer and a salutary update, he has no longer to be ashamed in terms of torque or power. Thus, the performance line CX of the Powerfly+ trek can be set on 750 W and 100 Nm of torque.
This engine is accompanied by a PowerTube battery of 600 WH and a Purion 200 screen. Cedenier is more than enough for the display of essential information (percentage of battery, speed, level of assistance, etc.). On the other hand, its positioning is not the most judicious and it can be subject to breakages in the event of a fall.
The fact remains that its use can be supplemented by the Ebike Flow application, a size argument for users of the Bosch ecosystem. Indeed, the engine manufacturer leaves great freedom of maneuver to its users who can choose the four modes they wish to favor, but also adjust the level of assistance for each in a finer way.
Autonomy: what or even come
We will be fairly short on the autonomy part of this test. The reason? It essentially depends on the use that will be made of VTTAE. In our case, we have both experienced on small singles and the modest hills of the Montmorency forest, but also on our usual home-work.
We mostly oscillated between two modes: EMTB and Auto, the two having some similarities in their approach. Turbo mode always seems somewhat oversized for a leisure practice, even if it can prove useful punctually in the face of a big difficulty.
Under these conditions, it was possible for us to drive almost 70 km on the road during our Vélotaf, before having to iron by the recharge box. On a more steep field, in purely mountain bike mode, you will have to be a little more careful. According to our estimates, it is possible to aim between 55 and 60 km with a full battery and a good pedal stroke.
On the road and the trails: comfort and control
Good manufacturing quality, excellent level of equipment, motorization at the top … All this is very good, but what is it worth concretely once on the handlebars of this Powerfly+?
The latest Trek VTTAE in its “Team” version, is surprisingly almost more comfortable in town than in the forest. Let us hear, it is completely suitable for walks on roads and stony paths, it is even quite capable of facing more steep singles and on this plane its geometry offers welcome versatility. But it is on the most classic road that this Powerfly+ impressed us the most. The last of the Trek even reminded us that it was quite possible, even pleasant, to make our journeys home-work in VTTAE. Its extreme comfort (thank you the fork) and its large hanger give a fairly rare feeling of control and invite you to enjoy the road. Admittedly, we lose somewhat at top speed, but insofar as the assistance guarantees a constant 25 km/h without effort, these losses of a few seconds on a 19 km route are very accessory.
It is also on this type of journey that the Powerfly+ argues its equipment, from luggage rack to crutch through the lights. In this sense, Trek has managed to offer a truly hybrid electric mountain bike.
Test verdict:
The new PowerFly+ 4 lives up to its reputation. Trek’s electric mountain bike, is certainly a little less playful than its cousin, the Marlin+, but it is damn efficient and versatile. Its “team” version makes it possible to have a VTTAE particularly comfortable in town, but also quite capable of embarking on more technical and less paved paths.
Trek has seen just by offering a “Team” version which is truly rediscovered the pleasure of rolling in mountain biking in an urban environment. On the other hand, the manufacturer is guilty of a major error by choosing to ignore the telescopic seatpost. For the rest, the PowerFly+ 4 is a very good choice.
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