The Moots Express Flat Bar: A Carbon Moots?

When Moots released their new bike, the Express, many were surprised to see the brand's logo on a carbon fiber frame and even more so on an e-bike. The release marked a shift in the brand, but not surprisingly offers a similar level of attention to detail that we see on their hand-built titanium frames. The Express provides extreme versatility, excelling in anything from commuting to long-gravel adventures to long, steep canyon grades. 

THE BASICS

Moots has taken a page from the American gravel scene and has pushed tire clearance to the max, with the Express accommodating a whopping 29 x 2.1” tire width. This is uncharted territory for e-gravel bikes and allows for the rider to run low tire pressures for added comfort and grip on a variety of terrain. This added clearance also allows you to run a wider tire with plenty of room for some mud to build on the tire and not clog up. 

Equipped with a Class 3, Shimano EP801 motor, this e-gravel bike surpasses its rivals in torque and top speed. This motor can assist cyclists up to 28mph on flat roads and will climb with confidence when needed. Shimano’s motor is relatively quiet even while providing the maximum level of assistance. For those who want to go further, rather than faster, the EP801 is fully tuneable to ensure a personalized setup for each rider. The 504Wh battery offers a claimed 100+ Mile range, ensuring the rider will never be stranded with a dead battery. With a removable battery, swapping out batteries is fast and easy, not requiring removal of the motor to access the battery like most modern e-bikes. 

THE MOOTS EXPRESS FLAT BAR

Contender Bicycles is excited to have in stock the Moots Express Flat Bar build. Equipped with an FSA internal stem, and an FSA handlebar with 15mm of rise, this build prioritizes comfort, control and compliance. With the stock 29 x 2.1” tires, this bike is perfect to accompany a cyclist on all types of roads and might even make an appearance on a camping or fishing trip.  

Weighing in at just over 35lbs., the bike preserves a lighter weight build, even with the added battery and motor size. Using a Shimano Cues 1x drivetrain, the component selections focuses on reliability and durability. The Cues drivetrain uses Linkglide technology to ensure smooth shifting under load. With the added torque of the motor, this is a great drivetrain that will  keep the bike running smoothly and quietly. 

This is a great bike for many different types of riders. With the wide gravel tires standard and a large battery, this bike won’t shy away from tough gravel rides or loaded camping trips. For people looking for an e-bike commuter, its powerful motor it’ll ensure you won’t be drenched in sweat when they reach their destination. With the fully tuneable motor, this bike is perfect for canyon riding, giving just the right amount of assistance when needed.

OTHER BIKES TO CHECK OUT

For those who are interested in e-gravel bikes, but aren’t married to the Moots Express, check out the Santa Cruz Skitch and the Pinarello Nytro.

The Santa Cruz Skitch is offered with the Class 3 Fazua Ride 60 motor and a 430wh. This allows the Skitch to provide up to 60Nm of torque, with around a 60-mile range. The Skitch is available in 4 different build kits, including two drop-bar and two flat-bar configurations. 

The Pinarello Nytro uses the tried and true TQ-HPR50 system. This class 3 motor provides up to 50Nm of torque and will assist up to near 25mph. Compared to the Shimano Ep801 in the Express, the TQ motor really starts to taper the power in the 22-23 mph range. The Moots and the EP801 have a higher top end. While offered with two great gravel build kits, the Nytro can also be purchased as a true road bike for the best possible performance for road rides such as those found here in the canyons of the Wasatch Mountains. 

Also check out the BMC URS AMP LT or the Scott Solace Gravel eRide (both TQ-HPR50 motor) or the Mondraker Dusty (Mahle X20 motor) for more e-gravel bikes options. 

Visit us in-store or online to check the Moots Express. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to email us, leave a comment, or call our phone, we are here to help.