Eskute Netuno Review: Overview
The Eskute Netuno we’re revieweing here is effectively the updated version of the Eskute Voyager which we reviewed in 2021. It’s Eskute’s take on a trail e-bike that looks to give value for money and allow you to get out and about off-road. Whilst Eskute call it an e-mtb we feel this is a bit of a misnomer – it’s not a bike for tackling any off-road hill or trail in the way classic mtbs are. It’s more of a bike that is pretty off-road capable and gives you plenty of bang for your buck, unlike much pricier true e-mtb offerings that will tackle the most challenging terrain out there. This is not a criticism, just an outline of what you can expect from an off-road e-bike at this price point built to an EU 15.5mph assist / 250W motor rating spec. Within the brief of being an EU spec trail bike the Netuno acquits itself well overall.
So what’s on offer with the Netuno and how does it differ from its predecessor? Apart from a price rise from £999 to a currently discounted price of £1199 (not unexpected in today’s inflationary world), there is a 9% battery capacity boost to 522Wh, which is great news, plus a new large and striking handlebar stem-integrated display complete with USB charging port for your phone.
There’s a similar, maybe even identical, Bafang rear hub motor rated at 45Nm of torque, and budget steel-sprung front forks and cable-operated disc brakes. The seven-speed derailleur gearing also looks to offer the same gear ratios as on the previous Voyager model.
All in all the spec is pretty much what you would expect to see at this kind of price point, though the now larger 522Wh battery is certainly a nice bonus to have over the previous model. Of course, the actual testing and performance are what distinguish one budget e-bike from another so let’s get on and see how the Eskute Netuno stands up to our standard battery of tests.