The new Decathlon Speed 900E Connect targets fans of sporty and single speed electric bikes with its light weight of only 15 kg, its connectivity, all at a very attractive price. Presentation.
At high speed, Decathlon is trying to deploy a complete range of electric bikes. Already well established in leisure bikes such as VTTAE or electric VTC, the French firm is also betting big on electric city bikes. Its latest model is the Elops Speed 900E Connect, the first model in the so-called “City Speed” range with electric assistance.
A carbon fork for the Decathlon bike
This e-bike is an urban type with sporty geometry, available with a single high frame and in an active position, where the handlebars are at saddle height. It is therefore very close to the Speed 900 and Speed 920 muscle bikes. At least in spirit, because the components are different.
Source: Decathlon
Source: Decathlon
Source: Decathlon
Source: Decathlon
Source: Decathlon
Source: Decathlon
Certainly with the same aluminum frame, the fork of the Speed 900E is made of carbon, for better control of vibrations in the handlebars (flat handlebars 56 cm wide). This element is in fact not lighter than aluminum (also 900 g) but is more resistant. The bike supports 120 kg in total.
The lighting is not integrated: it is a separate element, therefore removable and replaceable easily. The brakes are still Tektro brand hydraulic discs, but specifically in the TKR R280 version, with 2-piston calipers. The transmission is also of another type: it is a single-speed chain. The muscular Speed 920 incorporates an integrated Shimano Alfine 8-speed hub.
Decathlon includes the mudguards and the kickstand, but skips the luggage rack, although available as an option.
A very discreet motor… and a rotation sensor
Regarding the electric part of this Decathlon Speed 900E Connect bike, the rear wheel motor is the very discreet Mahle X35 seen on the latest Desiknio, sending a torque of 40 Nm, with a legal power of 250 W. The torque is not huge, but enough for the total weight of the e-bike of 15 kg. It is a controlled and very light weight for an urban electric bike.
Too bad it is associated with a pedaling sensor and not a torque sensor. This makes the assistance less responsive and natural, compared to a more dynamic torque sensor. It has three assistance modes, including a 6 km/h walking mode.
A small integrated battery
To get into the atmosphere of light type electric bikes imitating their muscular counterparts, this Speed 900E hides its battery very well. It is integrated into the frame, and is therefore non-removable, which may irritate some customers who wish to charge the battery separately, which is more practical.
With a capacity of 250 Wh (or 7 Ah), a low value for an e-bike, the battery of the Decathlon Elops Speed 900E claims autonomy which varies depending on use. Thus, the brand expects around 30 kilometers per charge in mode 3 and 80 km in mode 1. The charger delivered is classic, with an intensity of 2 amps, or a full charge in around 3h30.
A connected Decathlon electric bike at a bargain price
The Elops Speed 900E is, like its mechanical cousin Speed 920, a connected bike. Decathlon combines it with the AXA in tracker, allowing the VAE to be geolocated in the event of theft. This is possible via the Decathlon Mobility application, also providing trip statistics and battery level monitoring. We tested it on the excellent Decathlon LD 920 E and its remarkable automatic transmission, for a convincing result.
This service is free for the first year, then is charged 2 euros per month thereafter. As for Laka insurance, it is payable in order to benefit from breakage and theft coverage, as well as replacement if the stolen bike is not found after 48 hours.
Connected, light and dynamic, this new sporty urban e-bike aims for the same price as the classic Elops 920E Connect city bike. The Decathlon Speed 900E Connect is available on the official website at a price of 1,899 euros, in a single black color, and in three sizes (M, L, XL).
We must not forget the possible national or local purchasing aid. It is therefore a nice, sportier alternative than the Elops LD 500E at 1,499 euros or the recent LD 920E designed for long commutes.