LMX Introduces eMTB With 2 Drivetrains
LMX was recently in the news because the French military is considering one of their eMTBs and one of their e-motorcycles for use on the battlefield.
The LMX 64 is a high-end, full-suspension eMTB (it retails for more than $7000) with a surprising use of a proprietary mid-drive motor. The motor, made by LMX, is a 2500W brushless, geared unit that uses a belt running between the non-drive side of the e-bike (left side) and a freewheel on the rear wheel to provide assistance. It is powered by an 850Wh semi-integrated battery that LMX estimates will give riders up to 62 mi. (100km) of range.
LMX’s use of a non-drive-side motor and freewheel is a novel take on how to reduce wear on the drivetrain. Sending 250W through a drivetrain in addition to the power the rider puts out will result in faster wear on chains, chainrings and cassettes. Sending 10x that through the drivetrain would see riders spending hundreds of dollars replacing drivetrain parts every few months, so it’s a very smart solution to an obvious challenge.
That said, whether unlocked or ridden as a Class 2 e-bike, the LMX 64 will be restricted from riding anywhere that allows only Class 1 eMTBs, which is nearly any trail system currently open to eMTBs; riders will need to take the LMX 64 to OHV riding areas if they want to find legal off-road riding options.
The LMX 64 rolls on 27.5-in. wheels and features a 65-degree head tube angle and a 76-degree seat tube angle, which are in-line with current full-suspension eMTB designs. A RockShox fork and shock provide a meaty 180mm of travel. Formula 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes take the stopping duties and an 11-speed SRAM drivetrain gives riders a wide range of gears (though not as wide as what we typically see in this price range). It comes in just one size, large.
LMX produces the 64 in three colorways: black/gray, black/red and white/gray; it is available for order on their site.