TEKTRO Introduces New Drivetrain Category for Entry-Level E-Bikes 3

With the E-DRIVE 9, TEKTRO opens their latest product segment in the E-Bike Solutions category with a 9-speed drivetrain system for entry-level e-bikes. The highlight: a 9-speed cassette where the smallest three sprockets – 11-13-16 – can be easily exchanged and a derailleur with a clutch mechanism for higher chain tension.

TEKTRO E-Bike Solutions started in 2017 in response to the first customer requests for a more robust brake systems for e-bikes. The solution was the new 2.3 mm thick brake disc standard used in the TRP DHR EVO brake systems. In 2019, the new TRP shifting segment was launched with the DH7 and TR12 rear derailleurs. The valuable experience gained over the last three years has helped to shape the development of the TEKTRO ED9.

Again, the impetus came from customers, who were looking for amore robust and low-wear shifting solution, especially for entry-level e-bikes.The E-bike boom and COVID-19 are bringing an excessive number of beginner riders onto entry level E-bikes, and TEKTRO Europe’s research with end users has brought the following challenges clearly to light:

• Extreme chain and cassette wear - especially on the smallest sprockets
• High service and replacement costs for the customer after only a short time / few kilometers ridden
• Beginners often change gears much less – especially with the “semi-automatic shift“ engine stages
• Stopping at traffic lights in turbo mode and starting again on the smallest sprockets
• Low transmission bandwidth is compensated on the uphill by the engine

“Daily use E-Bikes are subjected to a similar amount of intensity as the bikes of World Cup racers.“ - TEKTRO I TRP Development Engineer Louis Tsai

The ED9 shifting system was implemented in close cooperation and coordination with Conway Bikes and their development team. The first Conway models with the new TEKTRO ED9 shifting system and cassette will go on sale as early as February 2022. The TEKTRO ED9 system consists of the 9-speed E-Drive rear derailleur, the corresponding shift lever, and the matching 9-speed cassette with an 11-46 range. It is only offered as original equipment for bike manufacturers.

Details

• Cassette 11 - 46
• 11-13-16 sprockets interchangeable - lower service costs
• Significantly lighter gears with 46 sprocket - more fun uphill
• Higher cadence and better power support for the motor
• 9-speed rear derailleur with TRP non-adjustable clutch for optimized chain tension
• Bike models: Conway Cairon - 2022

Editor's note: The E-Drive drivetrain is only available as original equipment for bike manufacturers at this time. However, we are more curious if we will see TEKTRO develop and release a mid-range or high-end e-bike specific drivetrain in the future. As the e-bike and eMTB market continue to flourish, it makes sense that the market for e-bike specific components will follow suit. Time will tell!