New Trek Super Commuter+ e-bike has option of continuously variable transmission

Trek’s new e-bike is powered by a Bosch Performance CX motor, with its battery integrated into the bike’s frame. It puts out up to 250 Watts for speeds of up to 25kph.

Power comes from Bosch’s PowerPack500, which gives 500Wh, is lockable to the bike’s frame but removable too. The motor’s control unit sits on the left side of the bars and includes a backlit speedometer, range indicator and service interval indicator. There are two buttons on the unit’s left side to allow the rider to scroll through functions without taking their hand off the bars.

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Trek says it’s designed the frame for comfort and control even at high speeds. It’s made of aluminium alloy with a carbon fork with RockShox 15mm thru-axle. There’s an aluminium bash guard which covers the motor to protect it. At the rear there’s also a 15mm thru-axle.

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The Super Commuter+ comes in two models, with are four frame sizes available, from 45cm up to 60cm.

The higher spec Super Commuter+ 9, priced at £4000 features Shimano NuVinci continuously variable transmission, which replaces the rear derailleur with fully enclosed gearing.

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This system means that the gear ratio increases steplessly as your speed increases, making riding in stop-go traffic much easier. The rider selects their preferred cadence and the gearing varies automatically so that this is maintained.

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Overall weight of the system is comparable to a derailleur-based system. Stopping power on the Super Commuter+ 9 is provided by Magura hydraulic disc brakes.

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The Super Commuter+ 8 is priced at £3800 and comes with Shimano XT 11-speed shifting controlled by conventional bar mounted shifters. There’s an 18 tooth chainring and 11-42 cassette to give plenty of gear range. Brakes are Shimano M615 hydraulic discs.