The best lightweight eMTBs 2026 are no longer defined by a small motor and a tiny battery. Some still use quiet, low-output systems to preserve the feel of a conventional mountain bike, while others combine full-power assistance and useful battery capacity with a complete weight close to 21kg.
That variety is good, but it makes the category harder to judge. A lightweight motor does not automatically create a lightweight bike, and the lowest number on the scales does not always produce the best machine for your riding. Suspension travel, tyres, battery capacity, motor character and the complete build all matter.
For this guide, under 21kg is the ideal target. We will consider a bike up to around 22kg only when its power, range or descending ability gives it a strong reason to be included. That keeps the focus on bikes that are noticeably easier to place on the trail, lift over a gate and load into a vehicle than a typical full-power eMTB.
Our Best Lightweight eMTB 2026 is the Orbea Rallon RS-Team Mullet. It puts a subtle TQ HPR40 system into a genuinely enduro-ready chassis weighing around 18kg. It is a specialist choice, however. The Orbea Rise SL H30 is the better-value all-rounder for most UK trail riders, while the Amflow PX Carbon and Whyte ELyte EVO RS V2 are the options for riders who want much stronger assistance without traditional full-power weight.
If low weight is not your main priority, compare these bikes with our wider best eMTB 2026 guide. Our eMTB motors and batteries explained guide covers the drive systems in more detail.
Best lightweight eMTBs 2026: the shortlist
Overall winner: Orbea Rallon RS-Team Mullet 2027 — £9,999
Orbea Rise SL H30 2026 — £3,149.25 (RRP £4,199); best-value lightweight emtb
Trek Fuel EXe 9.7 SLX/XT 2025 — £3,199 (RRP £6,000); best-value carbon lightweight trail bike
Merida eONE-SIXTY SL 6000 2026 — £4,505 (RRP £5,650); best-value lightweight e-enduro
Scott Lumen 920 2026 — £5,399 (RRP £5,999); traditional lightweight trail emtb
Whyte ELyte EVO RS V2 2026 — £5,499 (RRP £6,499); lightweight bosch cx emtb
Trek Slash+ 9.7 2026 — £6,000; lightweight high-pivot enduro bike
Amflow PX Carbon 2027 — £6,499; full-power emtb
Mondraker Dune R 2026 — £6,799; lightweight bosch sx enduro bike
Yeti MTe C2 Eagle 90 2026 — £6,999 (RRP £8,999); premium tq trail emtb
What counts as a lightweight eMTB?
We judge the complete bike, not the label on the motor. As a practical guide:
- Under 19kg is exceptionally light for an eMTB.
- Between 19kg and 21kg is the lightweight sweet spot.
- Between 21kg and 22kg can still qualify when the bike offers unusual power, range or descending ability.
- Above 22kg is no longer lightweight for this guide.
Weight also needs context. An 18kg bike with 290Wh and gentle assistance is designed for a very different ride from a 20.6kg bike with 700Wh and a full-power motor. Neither approach is automatically better. The right choice depends on how much support you want, how hard you intend to descend and whether you are willing to manage a smaller battery.
Tyres can alter the real-world figure as well. A manufacturer can save several hundred grams with light casings, but that is not always useful on wet, rocky UK trails. If puncture resistance and grip matter more than the lowest possible weight, see our guide to the best eMTB trail tyres for UK riding.
The best lightweight eMTBs 2026
Orbea Rallon RS-Team Mullet 2027
Best Lightweight eMTB 2026
£9,999
The 2027 Orbea Rallon RS-Team Mullet is our Best Lightweight eMTB 2026. It combines a 180mm Fox 38 fork, 170mm rear travel and tough enduro components with a complete weight around 18kg. That is closer to many unassisted enduro bikes than to a conventional eMTB.
TQ’s HPR40 motor is central to the concept. It supplies 40Nm and up to 200W, while the 290Wh battery weighs about 1.3kg. Orbea says the complete electrical system adds only around 1.3kg compared with a standard Rallon because the motor replaces hardware that would otherwise be required around the bottom bracket and lower shock mount.
The support is intentionally limited. It takes the edge off a long climb and helps unlock another descent, but it will not carry a passive rider uphill like a Bosch CX or Avinox bike. An optional 160Wh extender increases total capacity to 450Wh for bigger days. The standard Team build uses a conventional Fox Float X2 Factory shock; Live Valve Neo is an option rather than standard equipment.
This is a proper gravity build, with a Fox 38 Factory fork, DoubleDown rear tyre, Shimano XT Di2 drivetrain and XT four-piston brakes. It wins because the motor assists an excellent enduro bike without changing its basic character. Riders who want maximum climbing help should look elsewhere; experienced riders who want precise handling with a discreet lift on the climbs will understand it immediately.
The Team is a special-order bike, so agree a delivery date with the dealer before committing. Riders who need a bike for an imminent trip should consider a stocked alternative instead.
Pros
Around 18kg with genuine 180/170mm enduro capability
Subtle HPR40 assistance preserves conventional mountain-bike handling
Fox Factory suspension, tough tyres and Shimano XT equipment are fit for purpose
Cons
The 40Nm motor will disappoint riders expecting full-power climbing
A 290Wh battery and integrated electronics require more planning than a simple big-battery bike
Special-order availability means the delivery date needs confirmation
Specifications
Frame: Orbea Rallon RS OMR carbon, 170mm rear travel, 29in and mixed-wheel compatible
Weight: Around 18kg, depending on size, wheel format and specification
Motor: TQ HPR40, 40Nm and up to 200W assistance
Battery: TQ HPR 290Wh; optional 160Wh range extender
Fork: Fox 38 Float Factory GRIP X2, 180mm
Shock: Fox Float X2 Factory 2-Position, 205 x 62.5mm, 170mm rear travel
Tyres: Maxxis High Roller III 2.4in EXO+ MaxxGrip front; Minion DHR II 2.4in DoubleDown MaxxTerra rear
Drivetrain: Shimano XT Di2 12-speed, 10–51T
Brakes: Shimano XT M8220 four-piston hydraulic discs
Orbea Rise SL H30 2026
Best-value lightweight eMTB
£3,149.25 (RRP £4,199)
The Orbea Rise SL H30 is the strongest-value route into this guide. Its aluminium frame and approximately 20.6kg complete weight are not class-leading on their own, but the combination of 140mm trail-bike travel, a 540Wh battery and the current price makes far more sense than chasing a lighter carbon frame with a smaller battery.
Orbea gives Shimano’s EP600 motor its RS Gen2 tune. The standard RS setting delivers a measured 60Nm, while RS+ can provide up to 85Nm; the bike is supplied in RS+ mode. The important part is that the assistance still rewards a rider who pedals rather than overwhelming the rear tyre on wet roots and loose climbs.
The compromises are clear. Shimano MT201 two-piston brakes and 180mm rotors are modest for a modern eMTB, particularly for a heavier rider or repeated steep descents. The Schwalbe Wicked Will Super Race tyres roll quickly but prioritise speed and low weight over the security of a tougher trail or enduro casing. Both are straightforward upgrades if the bike will be used on rougher terrain.
For ordinary trail-centre loops, woodland singletrack and riders moving across from an unassisted trail bike, the Rise is easy to recommend. It gives useful range and enough support without making the bike feel defined by its motor.
Pros
Excellent balance of price, battery capacity and trail handling
Natural, tuneable Shimano RS assistance with up to 85Nm available
540Wh battery is larger than many lightweight eMTB batteries
Cons
MT201 brakes and 180mm rotors are the first upgrade for harder riding
Fast Wicked Will tyres are less secure in deep mud and sharp rock
Specifications
Frame: Orbea Rise SL Hydro aluminium, 140mm rear travel, 29in wheels
Weight: Approximately 20.6kg, depending on size and specification
Motor: Shimano EP600 RS Gen2 MC, 60Nm in RS and up to 85Nm in RS+
Battery: Orbea 540Wh internal; optional 210Wh RS Range Extender Gen 2
Fork: Fox 34 Float AWL Sport Rail, 140mm
Shock: Fox Float Performance 2-Position Evol LV, 210 x 50mm
Tyres: Schwalbe Wicked Will Evo TLE Super Race 29 x 2.4in; Addix Soft front and SpeedGrip rear
Drivetrain: Shimano Deore M6100 12-speed, 10–51T
Brakes: Shimano MT201 two-piston, 180mm front and rear rotors
Trek Fuel EXe 9.7 SLX/XT 2025
Best-value carbon lightweight trail bike
£3,199 (RRP £6,000)
The Fuel EXe 9.7 offers an unusually affordable way into a carbon light-assist bike. Its stated medium weight is 19.15kg in tubeless trim, with a removable 360Wh battery and 140mm of rear travel. For a rider who wants help reaching the top of a familiar loop without losing the quick reactions of a trail bike, that is a persuasive combination.
TQ’s HPR50 gives 50Nm and up to 300W of peak support. It is less forceful than the newer HPR60 in the Scott or Yeti, and its small battery rewards economical mode use. The benefit is a compact system that sits neatly inside the frame. An optional extender can add capacity for occasional longer outings without making every ride carry a bigger battery.
The 150mm fork, supportive rear suspension and Shimano SLX/XT 12-speed drivetrain cover normal trail riding well. The retailer lists alternative Fox or RockShox suspension and Shimano or SRAM brakes depending on the assembled bike, so confirm the fitted components before ordering. The reduced-price Deep Smoke offer is for a large frame; it is good value only if that is your size.
Pros
Low price for a carbon light-assist chassis
Removable battery makes indoor charging easier
19.15kg stated medium weight with tubeless tyres
Cons
Older HPR50 has less assistance than newer systems
Sale availability and component substitutions require attention
Specifications
Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon, 140mm rear travel, 29in wheels
Weight: 19.15kg in medium with sealant, without tubes; actual build may vary
Motor: TQ HPR50, 50Nm, 300W peak
Battery: Removable TQ 360Wh; range-extender compatible
Fork: Fox 36 Rhythm 150mm or RockShox Lyrik Select+, depending on supplied build
Shock: Fox Float X Performance or RockShox Super Deluxe Select+
Tyres: Bontrager XR5 Team Issue 29 × 2.5in front and rear
Drivetrain: Shimano XT M8100 derailleur, SLX shifter and cassette, 12-speed
Brakes: Shimano M6120 four-piston or SRAM DB8; approximately 203mm rotors, confirm supplied build
Merida eONE-SIXTY SL 6000 2026
Best-value lightweight e-enduro
£4,505 (RRP £5,650)
The Merida eONE-SIXTY SL 6000 is for riders who want lightweight handling without giving up enduro-level suspension and tyres. Its CF4 carbon frame supplies 160mm of rear travel, matched by a 160mm Marzocchi Z1 eMTB fork. Merida states 20.8kg for a medium, which is impressive for a build using proper gravity-focused rubber rather than fragile tyres chosen to improve a catalogue weight.
Bosch’s Performance Line SX motor supplies 55Nm in its standard tune. It works best when the rider maintains a reasonably quick cadence. The integrated 400Wh CompactTube keeps mass and bulk down, while an optional 250Wh PowerMore extender can raise total capacity to 650Wh for longer rides. The internal battery is fixed, so buyers who cannot charge where the bike is stored should plan around that before ordering.
The parts are unusually appropriate at this price. A MaxxGrip Maxxis Assegai front tyre, MaxxTerra Minion DHR II rear and EXO+ casings give the Merida reliable grip. Shimano Deore four-piston brakes use 203mm front and rear rotors, so the stopping package matches the bike’s intended terrain.
The 400Wh battery remains the main limitation. It is adequate when the rider contributes and uses the modes sensibly, but repeated maximum-assistance climbs will shorten the day. For technical UK riding where the descents matter more than effortless winching, this is one of the most convincing bikes here.
Pros
Full-carbon 160mm chassis at a competitive current price
Aggressive Maxxis tyres and large rotors suit wet, steep UK trails
Bosch SX keeps the bike responsive while providing meaningful support
Cons
A 400Wh battery needs careful mode use on longer, hillier rides
Fixed internal battery will not suit every storage and charging arrangement
Specifications
Frame: Merida eONE-SIXTY SL CF4 carbon, 160mm rear travel, 29in wheels
Weight: 20.8kg in size M; final weight varies by size and specification
Motor: Bosch Performance Line SX, 55Nm standard tune
Battery: Bosch CompactTube 400Wh integrated; optional PowerMore 250Wh extender
Fork: Marzocchi Z1 eMTB Air, 160mm
Shock: Marzocchi Bomber Air, 160mm rear travel
Tyres: Maxxis Assegai 29 x 2.5in EXO+ MaxxGrip front; Minion DHR II 29 x 2.4in EXO+ MaxxTerra rear
Drivetrain: Shimano Deore M6100 12-speed, 10–51T
Brakes: Shimano Deore M6120 four-piston; 203mm front and rear rotors
Scott Lumen 920 2026
Best traditional lightweight trail eMTB
£5,399 (RRP £5,999)
At a stated 18.5kg without its range extender, the Scott Lumen 920 is one of the clearest examples of a traditional lightweight eMTB. It uses a carbon mainframe, an alloy swingarm and Scott’s integrated rear-shock layout to keep the silhouette and handling close to a normal trail bike.
The TQ HPR60 is a useful step forward from the older HPR50. It supplies 60Nm in a compact, quiet package and feels smooth when grip is inconsistent. The internal battery is only 360Wh, but Scott includes a 160Wh range extender. That gives a sensible choice between the lowest possible weight for shorter rides and 520Wh for a longer day.
With 140mm from the RockShox Recon Gold fork and 130mm at the rear, the Lumen is a responsive trail bike rather than an enduro machine. SRAM Eagle 70 Transmission is robust and straightforward, while the TwinLoc-controlled X-Fusion Nude 5 shock gives useful support on rolling terrain. The Wicked Will tyres reinforce the bike’s quick character.
The limit appears when speeds and gradients increase. SRAM DB4 four-piston brakes are welcome, but the 180mm rotors and lighter tyres are less reassuring on long, rough descents than the equipment fitted to the Merida or Mondraker. For fast woodland riding, trail centres and riders who value quiet assistance and low mass, the Scott remains one of the best lightweight eMTBs 2026 has produced.
Pros
Genuinely low 18.5kg stated weight without the extender
Quiet and natural TQ HPR60 motor
Included extender raises capacity from 360Wh to 520Wh when needed
Cons
Recon Gold fork and 180mm rotors set a limit for sustained enduro use
Wicked Will tyres favour pace over maximum puncture protection and mud grip
Specifications
Frame: Scott Lumen HMF carbon mainframe with alloy swingarm, 130mm rear travel, 29in wheels
Weight: Approximately 18.5kg without the range extender
Motor: TQ HPR60, 60Nm
Battery: TQ 360Wh internal; 160Wh range extender included
Fork: RockShox Recon Gold RL Solo Air, 140mm
Shock: X-Fusion Nude 5 RLX Trunnion, 165 x 45mm, 130mm rear travel
Tyres: Schwalbe Wicked Will Evo TLE 29 x 2.4in front and rear
Drivetrain: SRAM Eagle 70 Transmission 12-speed, 10–52T
Brakes: SRAM DB4 four-piston with 180mm front and rear rotors
Whyte ELyte EVO RS V2 2026
Best lightweight Bosch CX eMTB
£5,499 (RRP £6,499)
The Whyte ELyte EVO RS V2 takes a different approach to most bikes in this guide. Instead of a light-assist motor, it uses Bosch’s fifth-generation Performance Line CX. Whyte states 20.9kg for a medium without pedals or the PowerMore extender.
Its 400Wh internal battery keeps the standard bike compact. A 250Wh PowerMore extender is included, so capacity can rise to 650Wh for bigger days. The trade-off is weight: fitting the extender takes the complete bike beyond the normal 22kg ceiling used for this guide. That flexibility is the point. Leave it at home for a shorter technical ride, then accept the extra mass when range matters more.
Whyte’s UK focus comes through in the chassis and parts. The V2 uses a 29in front and 27.5in rear wheel, a 150mm RockShox Lyrik Select+ fork and 142mm of rear travel. Maxxis Minion tyres use a soft front compound and tougher rear casing, while SRAM DB8 four-piston brakes and 200mm rotors are suitable for steep, wet riding.
This is the best lightweight eMTB 2026 option for riders who specifically want Bosch CX power and its established dealer support. It is less discreet than a TQ or Shimano RS bike, but it avoids much of the bulk normally associated with a full-power Bosch build.
The £5,499 offer is for a large V2. Confirm the finish when ordering, as the colour selector and the listing title use different colour names.
Pros
Full Bosch CX support in a 20.9kg standard configuration
Included extender gives a choice of 400Wh or 650Wh
Mixed wheels, Minion tyres and capable suspension work well on UK terrain
Cons
The 400Wh battery alone requires restraint on long rides in high-support modes
Fitting the PowerMore moves the bike outside the normal lightweight limit
Specifications
Frame: Uni-directional carbon mainframe and seatstays, Shape.it Link V2, 142mm rear travel, mixed wheels
Weight: 20.9kg in size M with tubes, without pedals or PowerMore
Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX Smart System; output settings depend on the approved firmware
Battery: Bosch CompactTube 400Wh integrated; included PowerMore 250Wh extender
Fork: RockShox Lyrik Select+, Charger 3.1, 150mm
Shock: RockShox Deluxe Select+ RT, 210 x 50mm, 142mm rear travel
Tyres: Maxxis Minion DHF 29 x 2.5in MaxxGrip EXO front; Minion DHR II 27.5 x 2.5in MaxxTerra EXO+ rear
Drivetrain: SRAM Eagle 90 mechanical T-Type 12-speed, 10–52T
Brakes: SRAM DB8 four-piston with 200mm front and rear rotors
Trek Slash+ 9.7 2026
Best lightweight high-pivot enduro bike
£6,000
The Slash+ 9.7 gives riders a high-pivot enduro chassis with quiet assistance and a useful 580Wh battery. At a stated 21.58kg it sits towards the heavier end of the lightweight category, but 170mm of travel at both ends and a substantial battery give that extra mass a clear purpose. It is a more convincing choice for repeated rough descents than for chasing the lowest possible scale reading.
The 2026 build uses TQ’s HPR60, with 60Nm and up to 350W of peak support. That keeps the assistance more restrained than a full-power system while providing a larger energy reserve than most 400Wh Bosch SX enduro bikes. The removable battery also makes charging easier when the bike lives in a shed or communal store.
A Fox 38 Rhythm fork, Float X Performance shock and SRAM Eagle 70 mechanical Transmission make a practical, serviceable build. The high-pivot layout is designed to help the rear wheel move through repeated impacts, but the idler adds another part to clean and maintain through a muddy winter. Choose it for difficult descents and longer enduro loops; the Fuel EXe is lighter and more appropriate for gentler trail riding.
Pros
High-pivot chassis with 170mm travel front and rear
Quiet HPR60 assistance and a substantial removable 580Wh battery
Mechanical Transmission and straightforward suspension adjustments
Cons
21.58kg is heavier than most bikes in this guide
Idler drivetrain adds cleaning and maintenance work
Specifications
Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon, high-pivot rear suspension, 170mm rear travel
Weight: 21.58kg stated; varies with size and build
Motor: TQ HPR60, 60Nm, up to 350W peak
Battery: Removable TQ 580Wh
Fork: Fox 38 Rhythm GRIP, 170mm
Shock: Fox Float X Performance, 230 × 65mm
Wheels: Mixed 29in front/27.5in rear in M–XL; S uses 27.5in wheels
Tyres: Bontrager Brevard RSL SE tubeless-ready
Drivetrain: SRAM Eagle 70 mechanical T-Type 12-speed, 10–52T
Brakes: SRAM DB8 four-piston, 200mm rotors
Amflow PX Carbon 2027
Best full-power eMTB
£6,499
The Amflow PX Carbon shows how far the power-to-weight calculation has moved. Its Avinox M2S drive unit can supply 130Nm in normal maximum operation and 150Nm in temporary Boost, while the complete bike is listed at 20.6kg with a 700Wh battery. It is also Electric MTB UK’s Best Full-Power eMTB 2026.
This is the current PX Carbon rather than the older PL model. It has 150mm of rear travel, a 160mm Fox 36 Performance fork and a mixed-wheel setup as standard. The frame can also accept a 29in rear wheel and provides multiple head-angle, bottom-bracket and chainstay settings. Amflow describes 40 possible geometry combinations, although most owners will sensibly find one or two that suit their riding and leave them alone.
The standard parts do not undermine the motor or chassis. Schwalbe’s Magic Mary and Albert Radial tyres use Gravity Pro casings, Magura Gustav Pro brakes run thick 203mm rotors, and the SRAM S1000 Eagle Transmission derailleur is powered from the main Avinox system. It is a properly equipped all-mountain bike, not a light frame carrying fragile components.
The main ownership question is support. Amflow’s UK dealer and diagnostic network is newer than Bosch or Shimano, so check who will service the drive system locally. Its output also needs respect on wet technical climbs: a suitable mode, smooth cadence and good line choice will find more grip than simply selecting Boost.
Pros
Exceptional motor output and 700Wh capacity at a stated 20.6kg
Proper suspension, gravity tyres and strong Magura brakes
Extensive geometry and rear-wheel adjustment
Cons
UK service coverage is less established than Bosch and Shimano
Numerous setup options and very high torque require time to use well
Specifications
Frame: Amflow PX carbon, 150mm rear travel, adjustable geometry, 27.5in or 29in rear-wheel compatible
Weight: Approximately 20.6kg
Motor: Avinox M2S, 130Nm nominal maximum and 150Nm temporary Boost; 250W rated output
Battery: Avinox 700Wh integrated
Fork: Fox 36 Performance GRIP, 160mm
Shock: Fox Float X Performance, 210 x 55mm, 150mm rear travel
Tyres: Schwalbe Magic Mary Radial Gravity Pro 29 x 2.5in Ultra Soft front; Albert Radial Gravity Pro 27.5 x 2.5in Addix Soft rear
Drivetrain: SRAM S1000 Eagle Transmission AXS 12-speed, 10–52T
Brakes: Magura Gustav Pro four-piston with 203mm, 2.5mm-thick rotors
Mondraker Dune R 2026
Best lightweight Bosch SX enduro bike
£6,799
The current Mondraker Dune R brings proper enduro travel and tyres into a 20.3kg package. Its Stealth Air carbon frame has 165mm of rear travel and uses a 27.5in rear wheel with a 29in front. A 170mm RockShox ZEB Select and Vivid Base shock make its intentions clear.
Bosch’s Performance Line SX motor and 400Wh CompactTube battery keep the frame slimmer and more responsive than a typical full-power enduro eMTB. It supplies 55Nm in the standard tune; either way, it likes an active rider and a quicker cadence. It will not provide the low-effort climbing of the Whyte or Amflow, but it offers enough support for repeated laps without dominating the bike’s handling.
Mondraker has not chased its weight with delicate tyres. The front Maxxis Assegai uses a MaxxGrip compound and DH casing, while the rear Minion DHR II uses DoubleDown protection. SRAM Maven Base four-piston brakes and 200mm rotors are also appropriate for a bike designed to carry speed through steep, rough terrain.
The Dune R is more specialised than the Merida. Its long travel, Forward Geometry and tough tyres are unnecessary for mellow bridleways and smoother blue trails, and the 400Wh battery still requires planning on long climbing days. For riders seeking a low-weight e-enduro with a stable, hard-charging character, it is one of the strongest options available.
Pros
170/165mm enduro chassis at a stated 20.3kg
Tough Maxxis tyres and Maven brakes match its intended use
Bosch SX assistance preserves a more active ride than a heavier full-power bike
Cons
A 400Wh battery is restrictive for repeated high-support climbing
Long travel and heavy-duty tyres are excessive for mostly smooth trails
Specifications
Frame: Mondraker Stealth Air full carbon, Updated Zero suspension, 165mm rear travel, mixed wheels
Weight: 20.3kg
Motor: Bosch Performance Line SX, 55Nm standard tune
Battery: Bosch CompactTube 400Wh integrated; PowerMore 250Wh compatible
Fork: RockShox ZEB Select Charger RC, 170mm
Shock: RockShox Vivid Base, 205 x 65mm, 165mm rear travel
Tyres: Maxxis Assegai 29 x 2.5in DH MaxxGrip front; Minion DHR II 27.5 x 2.5in DoubleDown MaxxTerra rear
Drivetrain: SRAM Eagle 90 mechanical T-Type 12-speed, 10–52T
Brakes: SRAM Maven Base four-piston with 200mm front and rear rotors
Yeti MTe C2 Eagle 90 2026
Best premium TQ trail eMTB
£6,999 (RRP £8,999)
The Yeti MTe C2 Eagle 90 sits between a short-travel lightweight trail bike and a full enduro machine. Its 160mm Fox 36 fork is paired with 145mm of Sixfinity-controlled rear travel, producing a useful balance for technical singletrack, rocky trail-centre descents and longer natural rides.
TQ’s HPR60 motor delivers 60Nm and up to 350W peak in a compact, quiet system. A 580Wh battery gives the Yeti more standard capacity than the Scott Lumen and most Bosch SX bikes, while the complete build is around 20.1kg. An optional 160Wh extender is available for compatible frame sizes when still more range is needed.
The chassis is the reason to choose it. Yeti’s Sixfinity layout has adjustable progression, and the frame can use a 29in or 27.5in rear wheel without upsetting the intended geometry. The C2 build includes a Fox 36 Performance fork, Float X Performance shock, SRAM Eagle 90 mechanical Transmission and Maven Bronze brakes. Schwalbe Magic Mary and Albert Radial tyres are well suited to UK grip.
There is a fair amount to set up. Suspension progression, rear-wheel choice, motor modes and an optional extender all give the bike a broad range, but buyers should expect to spend time finding the right configuration. It is heavier and less minimal than the Scott, yet offers more suspension depth and battery capacity in return.
Pros
Quiet TQ HPR60 system with a useful 580Wh battery
Sixfinity suspension and adjustable progression create a capable trail chassis
Strong tyres, brakes and mechanical T-Type drivetrain
Cons
Multiple chassis and assistance settings take time to optimise
The larger battery makes it less feathery than minimalist TQ builds
Specifications
Frame: Yeti C/Series carbon with Sixfinity suspension, 145mm rear travel, 29in or mixed-wheel compatible
Weight: Approximately 20.1kg, depending on size and final build
Motor: TQ HPR60, 60Nm and up to 350W peak
Battery: TQ 580Wh; optional 160Wh range extender on compatible sizes
Fork: Fox 36 Performance, 160mm
Shock: Fox Float X Performance, 145mm rear travel
Tyres: Schwalbe Magic Mary Trail Pro Radial 29 x 2.5in Ultra Soft front; Albert Trail Pro Radial 29 x 2.5in Soft rear
Drivetrain: SRAM Eagle 90 mechanical Transmission 12-speed, 10–52T
Brakes: SRAM Maven Bronze four-piston with 200mm front and rear rotors
Which lightweight eMTB should you buy?
For most riders, start with the terrain rather than the motor specification.
The Orbea Rise SL H30 is the sensible all-rounder. It offers a larger battery than most entry-level lightweight bikes, a natural assistance character and enough travel for normal UK trail riding. Its current price leaves room to upgrade the brakes or tyres if your local terrain demands it.
Choose the Scott Lumen 920 if low weight, quiet assistance and quick trail-bike handling matter most. The Yeti MTe C2 Eagle 90 follows the same TQ philosophy but adds more battery capacity, suspension depth and chassis adjustment.
For aggressive riding, the Merida eONE-SIXTY SL 6000 is the value choice. The Mondraker Dune R is longer-travel and more specialised, while the Orbea Rallon RS-Team is the lightest and most mountain-bike-like enduro option. The Rise is an accessible 140mm trail bike, while the Rallon is a highly specialised 170mm enduro machine.
If climbing power takes priority, choose between the Whyte ELyte EVO RS V2 and Amflow PX Carbon. The Whyte brings Bosch’s established service network and a removable extender; the Amflow provides far more standard battery capacity and exceptional output at a similar complete weight.
The Trek Fuel EXe 9.7 is a compelling carbon alternative to the Rise if its large sale frame fits, particularly when quiet support and a removable battery matter. The Trek Slash+ 9.7 takes a different route: high-pivot suspension, 170mm of travel and a larger TQ battery for repeated rough descents.
Lightweight eMTB motors compared
Torque is useful, but it does not tell you how quietly a motor runs, how quickly it responds, how much rider input it rewards or how easily it finds grip. These are the main options in this guide:
| Drive system | Bikes in this guide | Character | Main compromise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shimano EP600 RS Gen2 | Orbea Rise SL H30 | Natural, tuneable support with 60Nm RS and 85Nm RS+ modes | Heavier than the smallest TQ systems |
| Bosch Performance Line SX | Merida eONE-SIXTY SL, Mondraker Dune R | Lively 55Nm standard tune that rewards cadence | 400Wh batteries need active riding and mode control |
| TQ HPR50 | Trek Fuel EXe 9.7 | Compact 50Nm assistance with a removable 360Wh battery | Less output than the newer HPR60 |
| TQ HPR60 | Scott Lumen, Yeti MTe, Trek Slash+ | Compact, quiet and smooth 60Nm assistance | Less low-cadence shove than full-power systems |
| Bosch Performance Line CX | Whyte ELyte EVO RS V2 | Strong support, broad UK service coverage and mature app control | Requires a small battery to keep the complete bike light |
| Avinox M2S | Amflow PX Carbon | Extremely high output with polished controls and a large battery | Newer UK support network and more power than many riders need |
| TQ HPR40 | Orbea Rallon RS-Team | Very light, quiet and deliberately subtle | 40Nm and 290Wh demand meaningful rider effort |
The best lightweight eMTB motor is therefore the one that matches your expectations. TQ HPR40, HPR50 and HPR60 suit riders who want the bike to feel conventional. Shimano RS and Bosch SX sit in the middle. Bosch CX and Avinox M2S make sense when speed and climbing support matter more than subtlety.
How much battery does a lightweight eMTB need?
Battery capacity should be considered alongside rider weight, elevation, temperature, tyre choice, surface conditions and assistance mode. There is no reliable fixed conversion from watt-hours to trail mileage.
A 290–360Wh battery works for shorter rides or riders who contribute strongly. Around 400Wh is a useful lightweight baseline, but long days in high-support modes may need an extender. The Orbea Rise’s 540Wh and Yeti’s 580Wh provide more flexibility, while the Amflow’s 700Wh is exceptional at its complete weight.
Range extenders are useful because they let you carry extra capacity only when required. They also add weight and may occupy the bottle position. Check whether the quoted bike weight includes the extender: the Scott and Whyte headline weights do not.
Are lightweight eMTBs good for UK riding?
Yes, particularly on trails that reward accurate line choice rather than simply ploughing through obstacles. Lower mass helps with quick direction changes, front-wheel lifts and corrections on wet roots. It also makes gates, steps, roof racks and vehicle loading less awkward.
The main caution is specification. Light tyres and small rotors can flatter the catalogue weight but reduce confidence in mud, sharp rock and repeated steep descents. Check the actual casing, compound and rotor size, not just the tyre or brake brand. The Rise and Lumen are quicker-rolling trail builds; the Merida, Mondraker, Amflow and Rallon arrive with more aggressive equipment.
Fit still matters more than a kilogram on paper. Before buying, check reach, seat-tube length, dropper insertion and maximum system weight, then test the closest size if possible. A correctly sized 20.5kg bike will usually feel easier to control than an 18.5kg bike with the wrong proportions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best lightweight eMTB 2026?
The Orbea Rallon RS-Team Mullet is our Best Lightweight eMTB 2026, available by special order. It combines around 18kg complete weight with 180mm front and 170mm rear travel. Its TQ HPR40 system is deliberately subtle, so riders wanting much stronger climbing support should choose the Whyte ELyte EVO RS V2 or Amflow PX Carbon instead.
What is the best lightweight eMTB for most UK riders?
The Orbea Rise SL H30 is the best fit for most riders because it balances handling, a 540Wh battery, tuneable Shimano assistance and a strong current price. The standard brakes and tyres are modest, but both can be upgraded as required.
How light should a lightweight electric mountain bike be?
Below 21kg is a useful target for a complete lightweight eMTB. Bikes between 21kg and 22kg can still qualify when they provide unusual battery capacity, motor output or descending capability. Always check whether the quoted figure includes pedals, tubes and a range extender.
Can a lightweight eMTB have a full-power motor?
Yes. The Whyte ELyte EVO RS V2 uses a Bosch Performance Line CX motor at a stated 20.9kg without its extender. The Amflow PX Carbon combines an Avinox M2S motor and 700Wh battery with a listed 20.6kg complete weight.
Which lightweight eMTB is best for enduro riding?
The Merida eONE-SIXTY SL 6000 is the value option for enduro riding. The Mondraker Dune R adds more travel and a tougher gravity focus, while the Orbea Rallon RS-Team is the lightest and most specialised choice for experienced riders who are comfortable with lower motor output.
Do lightweight eMTBs have enough range?
They can, provided the battery matches the ride. A 290–400Wh bike requires more rider effort and careful mode use, while 540–700Wh models are more forgiving. Range extenders can bridge the gap, but they add weight and are not included in every quoted bike weight.
Are lightweight eMTBs suitable for heavier riders?
Potentially, but complete-bike weight is not the deciding factor. Check the manufacturer’s maximum system weight, choose suspension springs and pressures for the rider, and make sure the brakes, rotors, wheels and tyre casings suit the terrain. A test ride and dealer setup are particularly valuable.
Verdict
The best lightweight eMTBs 2026 cover several distinct types of rider. The Orbea Rise SL H30 is the value all-rounder, the Scott Lumen 920 is the clearest conventional lightweight trail bike, and the Merida eONE-SIXTY SL 6000 brings serious enduro capability to a competitive price.
The Whyte ELyte EVO RS V2 and Amflow PX Carbon prove that strong assistance no longer requires a 25kg bike. The Mondraker Dune R and Yeti MTe serve riders who want more descending depth, but with different motor and battery priorities.
The Orbea Rallon RS-Team Mullet is the Best Lightweight eMTB 2026 because it makes the electrical system secondary to the ride. It is not the answer for everybody, but no other current bike here combines such low mass with this level of enduro equipment and suspension travel.