trek powerfly 7 lt 2019

Trek Powerfly 7 LT Review

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• A stealthy, long travel, all-mountain electric bike with longer wheel base and adjustable seat stay hardware to optimize geometry for climbing and descending, proprietary "Active Braking Pivot" rear suspension reduces skipping, Knock Block headset and Hartzell Hug impact-absorbing downtube bumpers allow for straight downtube
• Trek-invented Boost hub spacing improves spoke bracing angle and support for larger plus sized tires, quick release thru axles are sturdy and easy to work with, direct-link rear suspension stiffens the chain stays and bottom bracket without compromising performance thanks to the DeonAir rear shock
• Beautiful battery integration, Bosch PowerTube 500 disappears into the frame, keeps weight low and center, provides space for a bottle cage mount and accessories above, sturdy locking core from ABUS with keyed-alike code, battery has a built-in handle for secure removal and transport
• Bosch Purion display does not have an active Micro-USB port, the PowerTube 500 is heavier than the older PowerPack design, longer wheel base isn't as nimble and the motor integration is flat vs. angled up (unless you get the carbon model), the motor is heavier than the competition, produces more noise, introduces some drag when unpowered

Video Review

Introduction

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The Trek Powerfly electric mountain bike models have been completely redesigned and updated for 2019, and EBR was invited to attend a launch event at Mammoth Mountain resort in California to check them out for this review. I brought my friend Brandy, who is a beginner mountain biker, and we spent the day hearing about updates and then going for rides (up and down the lower sections of the mountain). Mammoth sits at roughly 11,000 feet (3,352 meters) elevation above sea level, and there was a small forest fire burning nearby during our visit… so it was awesome to have electric assist, to make it easier to breathe. Summertime is beautiful in the Inyo National Forest, Mammoth is a lava dome volcano and the terrain is really unique and varied (featuring soft volcanic pumice in some areas and steep jagged rock in others). We got to interview one of the Mammoth staff and learn about the resort’s rich history of innovation… and there was a little celebration happening because the mountain has become one of the first in the US to officially allow Class 1 electric bicycles on national forest land. Anyway, it was pretty warm in the afternoons and I’m certain that we couldn’t have ridden as far or stayed as cool and comfortable on traditional mountain bikes. It certainly wouldn’t have been as much fun for the two of us to ride at a similar pace together. I’d consider myself an intermediate mountain biker, but I have an injured left knee and have become a big fan of e-bikes as a way to keep up with advanced riders and just go further.

All of the Powerfly electric bike models from from Trek share the same Bosch PowerTube 500 battery and Performance Line CX motor. They range from affordable hardtail models called the Powerfly 5 and Powerfly 5 Women’s (which has a slightly lower, sloped top tube), up to the Powerfly 5 FS (full suspension), the Powerfly 7 FS, the Powerfly 7 LT (long travel) which was the focus of this review, and the Powerfly 9.7 LT (a carbon fiber long travel version). If I were purchasing one of these models for myself, I’d probably go with the 7 FS because I don’t need the longer travel suspension for aggressive downhill riding and prefer the all-black color scheme on that model, which hides the black motor casing. If money were no object, the Powerfly 9.7 LT would be nice because Trek was able to tilt the motor a bit for a nicer looking integration and carbon fiber tends to reduce jitter and weigh a bit less. The 7 LT came in around 52.3 lbs (23.7 kg) which is about average for bigger suspension, thru axles, plus sized tires, and the PowerTube 500 battery (which weighs more than the older external PowerPack plastic batteries). In recent years, I discovered that Trek created the wider Boost axle and bottom bracket standard. This allows for a stronger spoke bracing angle which supports plus sized tires (2.6″ to 3.0″ width). You can see that on these bikes, and I was told that the Q Factor is 190 mm and that the frame was made a bit long to help keep the front wheel down on steep descents. Despite this, I managed to lift the front wheel on a couple of occasions during our ride test. Trek has another innovation in store for people who are willing to spend some time unscrewing bolts… the seat stays can be made slightly longer or shorter by flipping this washer called a Mino Link which changes the fork angle by about one percent. I haven’t seen this on any other electric mountain bikes. Same goes for the Lock Block headset, designed to stop the crown from bashing into the downtube in the event of a crash. Other frames utilize curved downtubes that aren’t as stiff. The rear suspension design uses a rocker link and vertical shock position to keep as much weight directly below the rider (at the center of the frame) as possible. Older Trek models had a floating pivot design but I was told that they have moved towards direct frame mount in an effort to stiffen the chain stays and bottom bracket. The rear wheel mounts to a pivot point and benefits from an Active Braking Pivot (ABP) design meant to isolate suspension movement from braking, to keep your rear wheel in contact with the ground and reduce stiffening and brake squat. Lots of fancy proprietary engineering happening here. As a more casual rider, I was drawn to the clean internally routed cables, tight motor casing with clever molded chain guide and alloy skid plate (with bottle opener), double-sided slap guard and chain suck protector wedge, and powerful 203 mm hydraulic disc brakes with quad piston calipers. As someone who frequently rides with just one hand on the bar (because I’m filming), it’s nice to have good brakes. For whatever reason, the brakes were squeaking a bit during my rides, and that could be due to some hand oils on the rotors from transport, assembly, and demos. It was great to work with the Trek team to be fit to the frame properly and then have the suspension sagged to my body weight. Both air shocks have black anodized coatings to minimize stiction, offer rebound, and compression adjust… they felt great. With five frame sizes available for each of the Powerfly models coming to the US, and a vast network of dealers, you’ll be able to find a great fit and get set up properly like we were.

Driving the bike is a planetary geared mid-motor that’s rated 250 watts nominal and 600 watts peak. Depending on the market you’re in, the top speed may be 32 km/h (20 mph) or 25 km/h (15.5 mph) to comply with local regulations. It’s a Class 1 product, meaning that it utilizes pedal assist only and is allowed on the widest number of trails (including at Mammoth). With a peak torque rating of 75 Newton meters, it’s one of the most powerful centerdrive electric bike drive systems on the market, but it’s also one of the loudest. If you’re riding on gravel trails or through the woods, the high pitched motor sound is mostly masked by tire contact. What’s so impressive about this system is that it responds to rear wheel speed, pedal cadence, and pedal torque over 1,000 times per second and incorporates software driven shift detection. Bosch is well known for their motor controller system and the Performance Line CX motor offers an eMTB mode that was developed in tandem with professional mountain bike riders. The motor itself weighs a bit more than some of the competition at roughly 8.8 lbs. There’s definitely room for improvement here, but Bosch has earned a reputation for quality and reliability. They were one of the first big companies to enter the US with brands like Haibike and have faithfully served the North American market longer than Brose, Shimano, Yamaha, and most others. What you trade in millimeters and grams is made back through reliability and leading performance. Perhaps my favorite part about this motor, and a feature that is especially relevant to electric mountain biking applications, is the higher pedal RPM support. Basically, you can pedal fast in a high gear and the motor will continue supporting you at up to 120 pedal strokes per minute. I tried to demonstrate this in the video review above… Some other motor systems cut out at 100, 110, or begin to fade near 120. This motor can handle steep climbs but also supports faster spinning on cross country sections. It empowers you as a rider vs. forcing you to adapt to electric assist. I also appreciate the walk mode feature that was working on the latest batch of Powerfly ebikes. This is a feature that most earlier (pre-2018) Trek models had disabled, but it comes in very handy for those moments when the terrain is too difficult to ascend or you’ve got a flat. The 11-speed Shimano Deore XT drivetrain empowers the Bosch mid-drive to climb and can easily pedal the bike beyond the top assisted speed. You’ve got an 11-46 tooth cassette and a proprietary 15-tooth (38 tooth equivalent) chainring to work with. The motor utilizes a reduction gearing system to spin the 15 tooth cog 2.5 times per single crank revolution and this causes a bit of mechanical drag that eats into efficiency when the bike is unpowered or pedaled beyond the top assisted speed. Some benefits might be faster starts and stops along with excellent chain retention… but the chain is also positioned very near the chain stay, so there’s more contact happening as you ride over bumps. Thankfully, the Deore XT derailleur does come with a one-way clutch system, a little grey lever that can be clicked into the up position to tighten the derailleur spring and reduce bounce. Position it in the forward position for easier wheel maintenance.

One of the most exciting new design features that Trek has introduced for their 2019 mountain models is the Bosch PowerTube 500 battery integration. In the past, Trek has done a great job of matching and smoothing the external plastic PowerPack battery… insetting the packs and even using plastic covers for protection and aesthetic enhancement, but it still stuck up above the downtube and stood out. It limited space for adding bottle cage bosses and other accessories in the main triangle of the frame. The PowerTube, by contrast, is completely hidden inside the downtube and it stays out of the way completely. The battery bay is wide open when the pack is removed and this actually makes it easier for shops to adjust shifter, brake, electrical, and seat post dropper cables. The battery pack is encased in an aluminum alloy shell and has a second layer of alloy protective covering screwed onto the right side, painted to match the downtube design of each specific model. We were told that the shield does not add to the structural integrity of the frame (and for the carbon fiber 9.7 model it is still aluminum alloy) so it definitely adds some weight. In addition to the shield, there’s also a plastic top cap with flip-up handle. This is a welcome feature because it makes removing and transporting the $900+ battery much easier and safer. You first have to unlock the pack from the left side of the frame and then it pops out about halfway before you can press a lever on top (where the handle is) and pull it the rest of the way out. This two-step approach is also very nice for safety, but it only works on the way out… When you’re mounting the pack, you actually have to insert the key and twist it on the left side of the frame while trying to balance and push the battery pack from the right. I wish the halfway step did not require a key so that the process of balancing everything could be less precarious. I asked about this and was told that Trek wanted to make the locking mechanism secure and reduce rattling, so this is why the key must be turned. Anyway, I do appreciate the thought that went into putting the battery door on the left side of the frame vs. the bottom (where the pack could drop out easier on removal due to gravity), the top (where the pack could collide with the top tube from below), or the right (which would encourage riders to lay their bikes down on the more delicate drivetrain side). But still, the key port is on the left, so if you do lay the bike down it could be a challenge to reach under and twist. The charging port is also on the left side of the frame, directly in the path of the left crank arm. The Bosch plug interface is a wider proprietary design that seems sturdy, but it’s still worth being careful not to snag. There’s a little plastic door protecting the charging port and this is a nice upgrade from the stand-alone rubber plugs I see on some other models that could get lost when they don’t have leashes. I do recommend being delicate and thoughtful when laying the bike down on the left side because the larger 203 mm disc brake rotors could get bent easily (especially in off-road environments with sticks and rocks strewn about). Amazingly, the left chain stay has a 20 mm threaded tab for adding a kickstand! So, if you’re buying an all mountain electric bike and want to ride it around with a jittering stand, you can do that! Or, you could ride it around an urban environment and take on curbs, grassy hills, and pretty much anything else, and still stand it up straight in your garage and at the bike rack. Nice one, Trek :D Just like the older Powerpack batteries, the new PowerTube can be charged on or off the frame, and Bosch continues to lead with their compact, lightweight, faster 4-amp charger. I’d definitely remove the ~7.4 lb battery before lifting the bike for service or mounting it to my car rack. The battery has a little LED indicator on the base (where you plug it in) that communicates a rough estimate of fill level. To maximize lifespan, keep the battery charged over 20% as frequently as possible and avoid extreme heat and cold. The PowerTube is longer than the older PowerPack, it’s less universal because of the proprietary covering that each company is making for themselves, and it’s less available to travelers (or between bikes in the same family due to the covers). Sure, you could borrow a different colored battery for a long trip if you and a friend both have Trek ebikes, but imagine trying to stick this thing into a backpack or pannier bag. It’s just not as compact or convenient as the PowerPack… So I kind of miss that from the older Powerfly models, which still looked great. The 36 volt 13.4 amp hour size is about average for this generation of ebikes, and the lithium-ion cells are above average in terms of quality and warranty support. I really like and trust Bosch, but compared to the custom 36 volt 17.5 amp hour packs for some Brose powered ebikes that actually weigh less, it leaves something to be desired.

Activating the electric systems on this bike is fairly straightforward. You charge and mount the battery then press the power button on the top edge of the little display panel, which is mounted within reach of the left grip. This is the Bosch Purion display panel , one of the nicer compact offerings on the market right now. It cannot be swiveled to reduce glare easily, is not removable for protection, does not show as many menus (missing Clock, Max Speed, Average Speed, Trip Time, Shift Recommendation), and does not have an active Micro-USB charging port like the larger Bosch Intuvia display . However, it keeps the handlebars clean and may not get damaged as easily in the event of a tip. This is a very popular display panel for electric mountain bikes, which often strive to go “below the radar” and limit fancy accessories that could get broken or attract unwanted attention. I have grown to accept it but have a few tips for use… the + and – button pads that raise or lower power for assistance click in at an angle towards the right. They are attached near the left edge of the control pad and pivot in towards the LCD. The right edge is their sweet spot, sometimes even the middle can be difficult to click in or just inconsistent. The screen itself glows faintly in white at all times, which shouldn’t draw much power, and is handy when it’s early morning or later at night and you need to read it. Once you get the hang of things, you really don’t have to look down at all because you can notice the clicks of the button pad and feel the boost in power. Furthermore, if you set the drive mode to eMTB (which is third up from the bottom: Eco, Tour, eMTB, Turbo), you might not want to click at all because the mode is so dynamic and good. Holding the + button will turn a lights icon on and off but since the Powerfly models don’t come with lights (at least not in the USA), this doesn’t really do anything. Some dealers may be able to wire in lights for you at an extra charge, and this could be really cool for people who enjoy moonlight rides and want to take advantage of the high capacity battery onboard. Holding the – button will cycle through trip distance, odometer, assist level, and range. This range section is dynamic, so you can see the bike calculate how far it thinks you can go based on the last mile of riding, your current state of charge, and the chosen level of assist. On the lower edge of the control pad, mirroring the power button, is a walk-mode button. When you’re in any of the four levels of assist (not Off) press walk-mode once and then hold the + button to have the motor slowly assist you when walking the bike, as mentioned earlier.

This review video and writeup was longer than normal because I wanted to provide some guidance for the entire lineup. Trek is a leader in the cycling space, one of the top three manufacturers globally (Trek, Giant, Specialized), and their electric bicycles are some of my favorites. Trek didn’t pay me to say that and I didn’t get paid for this review… but they did provide a really cool experience for my friend and me. The past six years of my life have been dedicated to electric bikes, ever since I got a knee injury and wanted to keep commuting to work daily. My preference is full suspension mountain bikes because I also have neck and back injuries… and I love the new plus sized tires that provide increased float, traction, comfort, and reduce deflection on big rocks. It’s neat to see a few different levels of bikes, a women’s specific model with slightly lower standover height, and the carbon frame option. I was riding the 17.5″ frame and probably would have been better off on the 18.5″ because I’ve got such long legs. The Trek rep named Ross told me that they were targeting more options for the mainstream “middle of the bell curve” and that makes a lot of sense. It’s nice to have a dropper post, fully adjustable suspension, and a frame that is well-balanced front to back. the drive systems are positioned well and perform incredibly, but do produce some extra noise compared to some competitors. For those who are new to the 650B tire size utilized here, it provides the rolling momentum and lower attack angle of 29ers with increased width for traction. It makes perfect sense for an electric bike because the added weight and drag of the tires are offset by the highly efficient motor. The Bontrager tires that come with this model have reinforced sidewalls to handle lower pressure (increased tire flex) and the tires and rims come tubeless-ready for easy conversion. You’ll get less pinch flats, save ~200 grams total, and get fewer flats because of the self-sealing nature of tubeless sealant. As always, I welcome questions and feedback in the comments below, I’ll do my best to answer, and you can connect directly with other owners and enthusiasts in the Trek electric bike forums .

• The Powerfly line of electric bikes from Trek all share the same battery and motor integration, this keeps costs lower and makes fixes easier, I was amazed that all six of the models being introduced to the North American market for 2019 (Powerfly 5, Powerfly 5 Women’s, Powerfly 7 FS, Powerfly 7 LT, Powerfly 9.7 LT Carbon Fiber) come in five frame sizes! This ensures optimal fit
• There are actually two “medium” frame sizes to choose from, I rode the 17.5″ but would have preferred the 18.5″ which is slightly larger (since I have longer legs), Trek really focused on the “fat part of the bell curve” with their sizes to serve most common use cases well by having two mediums
• Trek only sells through dealers at this point, and this strategy allows them to provide the best quality control, assembly, and fitting… but they are also one of the three largest bicycle brands in the world, so their prices aren’t as high as some competitors, it’s the best of both worlds
• The motor is protected from rock and log strikes by a long alloy skid plate, it’s vented to improve cooling and the large vent hole in the center is shaped into a bottle opener… which is fun, I really appreciate the plastic casing design on the right side of the motor as well, this doubles as a chain protector and guide, it’s even designed to help clear mud and prevent chain suck
• Excellent use of slap guards, there’s a long rubber strip on the top and bottom portions of the right chain stay, this will keep the paint job in tact and reduce noise on rough sections of trail
• The smaller Bosch chainring makes chain slap more common than with a standard sized chainring but the Shimano Deore XT derailleur minimizes this when you click the one-way clutch into the up position, tightening the springs to reduce chain bounce
• Overall nice aesthetic, the paint job isn’t super busy and Trek has matched the black rims, seat post dropper, and suspension elements (including black stanchions) to the black paint accents… this is the case on all 2019 Powerfly models, I like the 7 FS best because the black motor blends with the black frame color
• Sturdy thru-axles, Boost hub spacing, thicker 35 mm fork stanchions, a high-volume rear suspension, and frame-mounted rear suspension interface (compared to their older floating pivot) increase frame stiffness, handling, and efficiency of power transfer
• Air suspension tends to be lighter, more adjustable, and these RockShox components have hard anodized stanchions to reduce stiction and perform better on smaller bumps, I appreciate the the proprietary rear pivot ABP design
• The Bontrager XR4 tires are designed to be lightweight but still have reinforced sidewalls to be durable when running at low tire pressure if you decide to go tubeless, they ship tubeless ready with strips and valves included for easy conversion and that’s what the Trek reps recommended to me… I was told that plus sized tubes can run 100 grams a piece and tend to go flat more easily when running with low pressure, so it’s decent weight savings but most importantly helps you reduce pinch flats and reduce maintenance effort
• The headset uses Knock Block to prevent oversteer and subsequent frame damage, even if you really crash hard and break the chips inside the Knock Block, the downtube has rubberized strike points for further protection
• Internally routed cables look great and stay out of the way but are still easy to service because of the wide opening for the PowerTube battery pack
• Internally mounted battery pack keeps weight low and centered on the frame, it stays protected inside an alloy (or carbon fiber) tubing structure with an alloy cover, Trek really thought things through and chose a right-side mount because it’s best to lay bikes down on their left side (to protect the drivetrain)
• Another benefit to the PowerTube battery, with attached plate and handle here, is that you don’t have to worry about someone stealing/tampering with a non-locking plastic cover when the bike is at a rack, and there are just fewer parts to keep track of when you do remove the pack from the bike
• One of the trade-offs with the Bosch PowerTube battery is that it does not come stock with a handle… Trek designed their own interface with two-step click (so it won’t flop out when you unlock it) and added a handle for secure and safe transport
• Plenty of space below the top tube, in front of the seat tube, and on top of the downtube to mount accessories… Trek even included bottle cage bosses for all of the Powerfly models!
• Excellent drivetrain, you get an extra wide 11-46 tooth cassette to handle All Mountain terrain… everything from climbing to descending with speed, I appreciate the durability and weight savings of a 1x drivetrain like this
• Extra large 203 mm disc brake rotors with larger quad-piston calipers provide stopping leverage and improved cooling for those fast, long descents… sometimes I’ll see 203 front with 180 mm rear but considering the semi-downhill performance of this suspension setup and heavier ebike build (52.3 lbs total here) it’s a great hardware upgrade
• Very nice 130 mm seat post dropper with internal cable routing, thicker 31.6 mm seat post sizing makes this part easy to swap out or upgrade
• Trek really dialed in their rear suspension for the new line of Powerfly e-bikes, the Active Braking Pivot (ABP) rear link reduces lockup and skipping so the rear wheel can stay on the ground, the Rocker Link piece positions component mass (including the rear shock) directly below the rider for better handling, they optimized the leverage rate between the rear wheel and rear shock to provide excellent mid-stroke control for less bobbing, more stable cornering, and and better acceleration
• Both seat stays have this “flip chip” adjustable washer called the Mino Link that allows you to change the frame geometry on the fly, when the link is extending the stays it provides quick performance for cross country quick-handling use but when you shorten the stays it slackens the head tube angle by about 1° for stable downhill riding, positioning the suspension fork to take hits more directly
• The Bosch CX motor controller is extremely smart and consistent, it measures rear wheel speed, pedal cadence, and pedal torque over 1,000 per second while also listening for pressure changes from shifting and then easing off, this protects the drivetrain a bit from mashing
• ABUS makes the locking core that secures the battery cover, it comes with a code for ordering additional keys or getting keyed-alike accessories such as folding locks
• I was delighted to discover that the bike has provisions for mounting a kickstand on the left chain stay! I think it’s a 20 mm spacing with two bolts and Trek / Bontrager hardware would be compatible
• The bike comes stock with the faster 4-amp Bosch charger that lets you spend more time riding and less time waiting, the Trek rep Travis told me that electric mountain riders tend to drain batteries faster because of all the climbing, etc. so it’s nice that the charger is also lightweight at ~1.7 lbs and very compact, the Bosch charger is one of my favorites
• The display is compact, it won’t get damaged as easily in the event of a crash but is still fairly readable with large readouts, for such a stealthy electric bike with integrated battery, the Purion display matches the understated look
• Trek is now enabling walk mode on their electric bikes! This is especially useful if you encounter a technical bit of trail that you aren’t comfortable riding or maybe you get a flat tire, considering that the bike weighs ~52 lbs, it’s nice to get help moving it
• I really like the eMTB drive mode, it was designed by Bosch with help from professional mountain bikers who dialed it in so the power isn’t overwhelming but also doesn’t let you down… it’s a great “all around” assist level to use so you can focus on shifting gears, it’s especially nice to have with the Bosch Purion display panel because I have found that the buttons aren’t as consistent (press near the right edge, near the LCD display, because they pivot in vs. going straight down)
• Another feature of the Bosch Performance Line motors that I really appreciate is how they can support higher pedal rates without fading out, you can reach 120 RPM (pedal strokes per minute) and the motor is still there for you, this means you don’t have to shift gears as frequently if you prefer to spin instead
• The quick release wheels and removable battery pack make this an easy bike to lift, transport, service on the trail, and park securely
• Trek invented Boost technology for wider, stiffer axles to support 29er wheels and now the 27.5″ plus sized tire setup with a wider bracing angle on the spokes, I love the knock-block stem, headset top cap, spacers and frame chip and rubber hartzell hug impact-absorbing downtube bumper backup protection system (to prevent oversteer into the straight shot downtube which could damage the fork and frame), by making the downtube straight they reduced the strength to weight ratio and improved stiffness
• Excellent two year warranty covers everything on the bike, including the motor, battery and display system, and with a vast network of dealers out there, it requires less effort to get help
• I appreciate the aesthetic that some ebike companies have been able to achieve by tilting the Bosch CX motor up and melding it into the frame, you can see this with the BULLS SIX50 EVO AM 4 and even Trek’s own Powerfly 9.7 LT Carbon which both use the Bosch PowerTube 500
• As nice as the battery cover looks, and as useful as the handle mechanism at the top of the pack is, this battery pack weighs significantly more than the same-capacity PowerPack 500 which mounted on top of the downtube (as seen with this 2017 Trek Powerfly 8 FS model), the benefits of the PowerTube are lower weight position, nicer look, ability to mount bottle cage and other accessories in main triangle
• The Bosch Performance Line motors are heavier and larger than the Brose S, Shimano E8000, and Yamaha PW-X while also having a wider minimum Q-Factor, but that’s less of an issue on this Boost frame because it’s setup with a 190 mm Q-Factor to reduce shoe strikes on the stays
• The motor produces more noise than some competing products and uses a reduction gearing system to spin the proprietary chainring 2.5x for each crank revolution, this introduces a bit of drag when pedaling unassisted or beyond the 20 mph top speed
• Minor complaint here, in order to mount the battery pack into the downtube bay, you actually have to insert and twist the key, you can’t just slam it in and have it click into place like some competing designs… this makes it sturdier and probably reduces rattling but also requires more time and energy to do, to go even further with this complaint, I wish that the first half-step could initiate without having to insert the key, just to keep the pack from tipping out if your hands are full and you’re struggling to balance the bike and insert the key… since the key inserts into the left side of the frame, that could be tricky to reach and do if the bike is actually on its side or leaning close to a tree
• Standard chainring teeth vs. narrow-wide for increased grab, no chain pulley to raise the chain and reduce kickback (though I did not experience any), the molded chain guide should prevent drops and chain suck
• Apparently most Trek mountain bikes do not come with pedals, it’s a minor gripe, you’ll have to pick up some aftermarket (I brought my own lightweight magnesium Wellgo pedals for this event)
• The Purion display panel looks good and gets the job done, but it isn’t removable and doesn’t have a functional Micro-USB port like the older Intuvia display … I’ve heard that some ebike dealers will upgrade the display for you if you’re willing to pay, not sure if Trek will do this?
• Official Site: https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/bikes/mountain-bikes/electric-mountain-bikes/c/B512/
• More Pictures: https://photos.app.goo.gl/gJpiKx7LmqNJ4hD98

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Comments (4) YouTube Comments

Great review, appreciate all the detailed information! A couple of questions…

• Would a Powerfly be a reasonable choice for urban commuting and mixed use (50:50) recreational trail/road riding or would the set up and the knobby tires make these bikes a poor fit for the road?
• If you were to compare the range of the Powerfly vs the Supercommuter +8s under identical conditions on the road, would the Powefly come up short? i.e. is the motor on the Powerfly tuned much more for torque than speed such that it would be range limited on the road?

Great question, Dave! I have done exactly what you suggest here because comfort is such a big deal for me and I only have had budget/space enough for one bike. I went with a full suspension Haibike, Easy Motion, and then Specialized over the past few years and just wore a backpack for supplies. The knobby tires produce more noise but otherwise work great in all conditions… not having fenders can mean you get wet and dirty, but there are some zip-tie mounting mud guards that could help with that as well. Regarding range… both the high speed motor and high torque motors use more energy, and a lot of this depends on where and how you ride, but the high-torque CX is my preference because it offers eMTB mode and can be ridden legally in more locations. You can always add some lights to the bike and wear a backpack to commute, but you cannot as easily take a Supercommuter off-road. I think you’d probably get similar range on both in urban environments :)

Hi Court, thanks for another fine review. Your mechanical camera shots keep getting better, so keep up with the shifting segments and suspension action, apparently taken using various frame or handlebar camera mounts… way cool. Additional closeups and camera time on suspension pivot points and other key mechanical features are always welcome. Please avoid the 1 hand MTB riding shots, use the helmet cam, I don’t want to lose you, man!

But I didn’t hear much about motor power. 250W just seems so small. Yes, I know there is a 15t in the front and a 46t in the back so even a 250W will climb dang near straight up, but still, how fast? I remember an old Hilltopper review you did and that little 250W motor chattered and stalled. Yes, I know that with the mid drive it is not going to chatter or stall on even a very steep hill, but aren’t you then limited to beginner speeds? Doesn’t that little 250W motor get boring after the first couple rides?

It seems that quality mid drives only come in 250W. Bafang makes 750W and 1000W but they are Chinese motors that don’t last and have some poorly engineered features, poor workmanship, and low grade materials (I’ve had my BBS02 apart 5 times, burnt winding, blown anti-vibration O ring, stripped plastic gear, broken steel ring gear teeth, blown controller FET).

Does a Japanese, European, or American manufacturer make a well engineered, reliable, mid drive in the 500W to 1000W range?

Thanks for the encouragement around frame shots, and your concern for my safety! Regarding motor power, think of it like 600 watts and up to 75 newton meters with an efficiency of 250 watts for flat sections. The Bosch Performance Line CX if very capable. It’s smarter and much more dynamic than other ebike motors (especially hub motors that tend to hype their peak output). In terms of mid-motors, I have found that the Bosch drive is one of the zippier and sportier feeling systems, I don’t think you’ll be bored at all. You are correct that Bafang has a series of more powerful motors, and that they tend to use less sophisticated sensors and possibly lower quality hardware. I haven’t spent as much time with those motors digging in the way it sounds like you have. As for premium mid-drive systems that reach into the 1,000 watt range… no, I think the Bosch CX, Brose S or S Mag, Shimano E8000, and Yamaha PW X are the best to consider and I’ve made a little comparison video with steep climbing that you can check out here .

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Trek Powerfly LT 7 Plus

Words & Photos by Chili Dog

Our backs laden with gear, we trudged up the hill, except for “the talent” aboard our Trek Powerfly. The sun beat down around us as we struggled for footing in the steep, loose soil. A feint whirring noise rose from the ridge behind. “This thing is too damn fun!!” yelled Sammy as he came flying past us, carrying a tripod and full backpack on his back. If I had to think of one common theme that continually came up during our time with the Powerfly, that would be it—too damn fun. The Trek Powerfly LT 7 Plus has been way more than a camera mule though. Over the months we’ve had this bike, we’ve sent it in bike parks, blazed up fire road climbs, flicked it around switchbacks, and yes, even ridden the steep ridgelines of Green River, Utah. It does it all with ease. We really don’t want to give it back.

Trek developed the Powerfly LT 7 as a do it all machine. Within the LT name, Trek offers three levels: the LT 9.9 Plus, LT 9.7 Plus and the LT 7 Plus. At $8,999, the 9.9 is the top of the line bike with components to match. The 9.7 fills the mid range eMTB slot, with a carbon frame, Fox suspension, carbon wheels and a price tag of $5,999.  The LT 7 we rode is the more affordable aluminum version, retailing at $5,499. If you’re keeping tabs, those last two are both a solid deal for an e-bike. Trek’s Powerfly LT 7 features an aluminum frame, aluminum Bontrager Line Comp 40 wheels, and a Rock Shox suspension spec. Both Powerfly LT models have 150mm of travel in the rear, and 160mm up front.

Power is provided via a Bosch Performance CX motor, Purion controller and a 500Wh Bosch battery. Maximum torque is 75nm, or about 55.3 foot-pounds. Introduced this year, Bosch’s controller has a new mode called “EMTB.” Aside from the standard three set power levels we’re accustomed to on Shimano Steps e-bikes (Eco, Trail, or Boost) EMTB mode lets the Bosch motor and software determine power output based on your pedal cadence, torque and conditions. It essentially mixes Trail and Boost settings, giving you power when you want it and dialing it down when you don’t. EMTB mode lets you focus on the ride instead of toggling between power settings all the time. Be warned however, EMTB mode will eat up battery quicker than Bosch’s Tour mode, which is like Shimano’s Trail mode.

The new Powerfly LT also sees major changes in the battery department. A side load Bosch Powertube battery drops into place from the drive side of the bike. The non-load-bearing side-accessed battery is a simple change, but it’s one that was derived from a lot of thought. A side load battery not only removes the battery from full exposure to the elements on the bottom of the down tube, but also makes it easier to replace and load in the frame.

The battery even has a nifty carrying handle that you’ll probably never use unless you’re ponying up for multiple batteries to do backcountry epics or have an issue. Nevertheless, if you don’t have power outlets near where you store your bike, or want to leave the bike in your van and just bring in the battery to charge, it’s easy to do so.

For our 165-175lb riders, the 500Wh battery has a claimed range of 105 miles in Eco mode on flatter rides, and 37.2 miles in Turbo mode however real world numbers never got that high. We never captured Bosch’s claimed range because of the elevation changes in our area. As with all battery-powered devices, elevation gain, rider weight and power modes can change actual range greatly so we definitely found that using Tour mode on longer rides was better than EMTB! Charging takes about 4.5 hours from full empty, and 2 hours from half full.

Anyone familiar with Trek ’s bikes will be instantly at home on this frame. Like their other 2019 models, it does away with the Full Floater rear suspension design, making the frame stiffer and able to accommodate 27.5+ tires. Trek’s famed ABP or Active Braking Pivot design still remains. A Rock Shox Deluxe RL handles the damping duties well.

To aid in climbing traction and stability, Trek gives the Powerfly LT a full 475 millimeters worth of chainstay, across all sizes. The bike also features a flip chip in the rear suspension linkage that lowers the BB height, slackens the head tube angle and slightly elongates the wheelbase. In the High setting, the head tube angle is 66 degrees. Flip the chip and it goes to 65.5 degrees and the bottom bracket height goes from 35cm to 34.4cm.

As you may have picked up by now, it didn’t take long for us to fall in love with this bike. Even after a short weekend with it at the launch camp in Mammoth Bike Park , we were pretty sure it was going to be a favorite. Trek designed the Powerfly LT to be a do it all machine, and they accomplished their goal. The only other e-bikes we’ve tested that come close to the Powerfly in all around performance are the Norco Sight VLT (review coming soon!) and the Pivot Shuttle . If you’re looking for an e-MTB that can climb, descend and handle truly technical terrain with ease, the Powerfly LT is near the top of the list with just a few other rigs.

The biggest differentiating factor with the Trek Powerfly, aside from price, are the long chainstays. At 475mm, the Powerfly’s stays are quite long. Unlike some bikes that have long stays as a result of a motor configuration or tire choice, the Powerfly’s stays were an intentional design trait.

Trek believes that a big part of the fun and practicality of an e-bike is climbing terrain too steep for a traditional MTB. As such, the long stays were chosen to aid in traction and stability while climbing. Living up to the design intentions, the Powerfly will climb just about anything you point it at without lifting the front wheel or spinning out. The combination of the 2.8 tires and long stays will have you winning countless hill climb challenges with your crew. It also handles speeds above 30mph with straight-faced confidence.

Of course, everything has a trade off. The 475mm stays prove to be slugglish and unruly on tight switchbacks where an eMTB’s weight is already a hindrance. If your bread and butter is slapping around tight corners and manualing at every chance you get, the Powerfly will be frustrating. If you want a bike that climbs and descends at breakneck speeds and stays glued to the ground, you’ve found your dream rig in the Powerfly LT 7.

With a majority of our test bikes coming with Shimano Steps 8000 powerplants, the Bosch motor with the EMTB mode was something that we truly appreciated in this bike. The Powerfly is the first bike we’ve extensively ridden with the system, and it’s now set the standard for us in the motor/controller interface category. We do miss the Shimano motor’s power mode thumb triggers however.

EMTB mode power delivery feels natural and provides the extra oomph needed in technical zones without the bucking bronco sensation typically associated with Turbo/Boost modes. The mode takes away the constant need to change power settings based on terrain, letting a rider focus on riding and not the bike. The Purion controller gives a minimalist and easy to read interface that helps the same cause. In other words, Bosch wants you to focus on riding and not their product, and they’ve succeeded.

Range on the Powerfly is right on par with the other e-bikes we’ve tested. While we haven’t taken the battery out of the bike much, the clean, integrated design looks good and has kept dust, mud and grime off the battery. One place mud and grime do find themselves however, is the very small front chainring! If you live in a very muddy area, be sure to pack a long thin flathead or similar tool to keep the small wheel spinning free.

While we received the more budget-oriented spec on our Powerfly LT 7, it performed better than many of the other e-bikes we’ve tested in the same price range. The Bontrager wheels, tires, dropper, bars and stem all performed well, even in aggressive riding. The Rock Shox Yari RL fork and Deluxe RL rear shock aren’t anything special, yet they get the job done. Aggressive riders will want to upgrade the fork, or spend the extra money for the top of the line 9.9 build to eliminate front end flex from the Yari. The Shimano four-piston brakes lack took free adjustment, but offer ample power and smooth delivery. The Shimano Deore drivetrain delivers its usual solid and reliable performance and handled the extra torque with ease.

Trek chose to spec the bike with massive 2.8” tires. Traction in loose soil is truly impressive, and the tires really shined riding in Green River, Utah and the burn areas of So Cal. On hard packed single track however, the tires are so large that they act as undamped suspension in technical rock gardens or bumpy sections of trail. The result was a bouncy, unsettled feeling on a bike that otherwise gobbled rocks like nothing. Thankfully the solution is an easy tire swap to suit whatever conditions you find yourself riding most.

The Wolf’s Last Word

If we had to go out and buy a new eMTB tomorrow, it wouldn’t be the Trek Powerfly LT 7. It would be the Powerfly LT 9.7. Both represent an impressive value, but the fully carbon 9.7 takes everything we love about the Powerfly LT 7 platform and improves it for only a few hundred dollars. We’re actually scratching our heads as to how the bikes are so similarly priced. Regardless, we know a deal when we see one!

While the rear stays may not make it the snappiest, they ensure it climbs anything you point it at. The price, overall performance and quality is also there. A lot of companies have e-bikes that look good on paper, but lack the suspension and components to actually hang under the piloting of real mountain bikers. Our Powerfly LT 7 put a smile on even the most core rider’s faces, and stood up to months of hard riding and abuse. It’s one of our favorite e-bikes for a reason!

Price: $5,499 Weight: 52 lbs Website: Trekbikes.com

CHASSIS Frame:  Alpha Platinum Aluminum, ABP, Removable Integrated Battery (RIB) Fork:  Rock Shox Yari RL (160mm) Rear Shock:  Rock Shox Deluxe RL, Performance, Evol, (150mm)

POWER PLANT Drive unit:  Bosch Performance CX Battery pack:  Bosch PowerTube 500Wh Controller:  Bosch Purion

COCKPIT Shifter:  Shimano Deore XT Brakes:  Shimano MT520 4-piston Handlebar:  Bontrager Rhythm Comp Stem:  Bontrager Rhythm Comp Seatpost:  Bontrager Line Seat:  Bontrager Arvada

WHEELS Hubs:  Bontrager Rims:  Bontrager Line Comp 40 Tires:  Bontrager XR4 Team Issue 27.5×2.80˝

DRIVETRAIN Chainwheel:  Shimano FC-E8000, 34T Cassette:  Shimano SLX, 11-46T Cranks: Race Face Aeffect Chain:  Shimano CN-HG600 Rear Derailleur:  Shimano Deore XT M8000, Shadow Plus

Climbs Anything

Smooth suspension, all around confidence, great value, we don’t, long chainstays, small chainring in muddy conditions, leave a comment & win free schwag.

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• Rider Notes

2019 Trek Powerfly LT 7 Plus

A 27.5″ aluminum frame full suspension enduro e-bike with high-end components. Compare the full range

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Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

Powerfly LT 7 Plus

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The 2021 Trek Powerfly full suspension e-MTBs blend European sensibility with modern trail capability for a unique e-mountain bike option.

Read Review

Mar 2019 · Christoph Bayer

The Trek Powerfly LT 9.9 Plus is the result of several years of evolution. In this latest iteration, the bike features a classy carbon frame, a smartly integrated battery and the proven Bosch Performance CX motor. Will the bike still manage to convince our test riders?NEW: Before we get into the review, we would like […]

Excellent suspension

Balanced, composed handling

Good climbing capabilities

Front too low on steep descents

Cumbersome in tight sections

If I had to think of one common theme that continually came up during our time with the Powerfly, that would be it—too damn fun. Over the months we’ve had this bike, we’ve done it all and it does it all with ease.

Oct 2018 · Alan Muldoon

Up hill or down, ebikes take an absolute beating, so the new Trek Powerfly 9 has a beefed up the parts package to handle the additional abuse.

Suspension, brakes and tyres are all on point. New battery layout is neat and easy to use.

Could have more generous reach measurements and shorter stems on all sizes.

Trek’s new 2019 Powerfly gives no mixed messages about its intentions. It is chunky, long, robust and built like a tank. With 160/150mm of travel, 40mm wide rims with 2.8″ tyres, e-bike specific FOX 36 the spec is undoubtedly up for a thrashing, and the chassis also. The newly integrated battery does wonders in making a …

Built tough.

Bosch E-MTB setting feels natural.

Fearless climber.

Length detracts from agility.

Heavy to move around.

Price: $5499.00 | Model Year: 2019 A stealthy, long travel, all-mountain electric bike with longer wheel base and adjustable seat stay hardware to optimize geometry for climbing and descending, proprietary

A stealthy, long travel, all-mountain electric bike with longer wheel base and adjustable seat stay hardware to optimize geometry for climbing and descending, proprietary "Active Braking Pivot" rear suspension reduces skipping, Knock Block headset and Hartzell Hug impact-absorbing downtube bumpers allow for straight downtube

Trek-invented Boost hub spacing improves spoke bracing angle and support for larger plus sized tires, quick release thru axles are sturdy and easy to work with, direct-link rear suspension stiffens the chain stays and bottom bracket without compromising performance thanks to the DeonAir rear shock

Beautiful battery integration, Bosch PowerTube 500 disappears into the frame, keeps weight low and center, provides space for a bottle cage mount and accessories above, sturdy locking core from ABUS with keyed-alike code, battery has a built-in handle for secure removal and transport

Bosch Purion display does not have an active Micro-USB port, the PowerTube 500 is heavier than the older PowerPack design, longer wheel base isn't as nimble and the motor integration is flat vs. angled up (unless you get the carbon model), the motor is heavier than the competition, produces more noise, introduces some drag when unpowered

Jun 2018 · Tom Marvin

The long back end is a constant across the size ranges, and so while the front end of the large isn’t super long, it’s still a relatively balanced-feeling bike.

Apr 2017 · Sean White

The Trek Powerfly is a very well sorted package and was one of the first e-bikes to win us over.

Last updated September 16 Not listed for 1,657 days

New 2019 Trek Powerfly – First Impressions.

The not-so-minor details.

2019 Trek Powerfly

Trek Bicycles

https://www.trekbikes.com/

4499 - 8499

Aesthetically clean. Bosch e-MTB mode for a natural feel. Considered spec.

Long chainstays.

The bike industry is in full e-swing, with new e-bikes releasing faster than iPhones or GoPros. While Trek might have been a little late to the party – with their first pedal assist mountain bike released just in 2016 – their new 2019 models, however, send a strong message. A lot of resources have been thrown behind their electric bike program, and it certainly will pay off, the new Powerfly is a very well considered package.

Hear our first impressions in the video below.

What’s new?

• Three models available with the addition of a new LT (long travel dual suspension model) with 160mm travel forks, 150mm travel in the rear.
• A new OCLV carbon frame version of the Powerfly LT (ooooh yeah!).
• All three models; hardtail, FS, LT use a new fully integrated Bosch battery inside the downtube.
• New Bosch e-MTB mode equipped.
• E-bike specific forks, more robust and tuned specifically.
• Four-piston brakes on all LT models, and sintered brake pads across the range.
• SRAM Eagle on higher models with the new steel Eagle NX cassette.
• 2.8″ Bontrager XR4 tyres with reinforced sidewalls.
• The integrated battery allows for water bottle and tool storage mounts.
• New and improved Bontrager Line dropper post.
• Same frame geometry as 2018 FS and hardtail models.

Long travel Powerfly, where have you been all this time?

Previously only available from select overseas markets, the LT is finally coming Down Under. The Powerfly we reviewed last year was the FS model, with 130mm travel front and back. Certainly a great bike, but it didn’t take much for it to feel a little under-gunned when we took it to more technical trails or descents.

It’s as if the venerable Trek Slash got struck by lightning, or fell into the cauldron of magic potion, this is a long travel bike with superpowers! The suspension felt like what we’d expect from Trek; balanced, consistent and well suited to the cause.

We spent a big day riding big mountains on the Powerfly LT 7 Plus – a non-Australian spec model – we will see two models of the LT, the LT 9 and carbon LT 9.7 pictured below.

It’s as if the venerable Trek Slash got struck by lightning, or fell into the cauldron of magic potion, this is a long travel bike with superpowers!

A long travel model, however, is just the ticket to unlocking the Powefly’s true potential. We often don’t see the point in an e-MTB with less than 150mm of travel, with so much power at your disposal, lugging a larger bike around is no big deal. When you need a little more cushion for the push’n, a 160mm travel fork is just what you need to let the brakes off and push it.

Bosch’s new e-MTB mode.

While it’s simply just a mode setting, it makes the world of difference to how the bike rides. Selecting e-MTB mode on the display unit is like putting your camera into auto-mode, no, much better than that.

The whole idea of the e-MTB mode is to naturalise the feeling of power delivery, so the response feels much more like a normal mountain bike under pedalling forces – it delivers a less aggressive power output if you’re pedalling slowly and gently, ramping up the juice when you’re hammering at the pedals.

The whole idea of e-MTB mode is to naturalise the feeling of power delivery, so the response feels much more like a normal mountain bike under pedalling forces

Read more about Bosch’s e-MTB mode and how it works here: Bosch e-MTB mode explained.

We tried riding in the three other modes – Eco, Tour, Turbo – and kept returning to e-MTB, it’s ideal.

Same geometry as 2018 models.

While it wasn’t music to our ears, news that the Powerfly’s frame geometry remained the same as last year, we do agree that Trek has made their decision after much consideration.

When reviewing the Powerfly FS 7 last year, we had criticisms of the long chainstays making it harder to muscle what are already heavy bikes around on the trails. At 475mm it’s one of the longest out there, what does that mean?

See our review of the 2018 model Powerfly FS here.

Well, with so much bike behind you, lifting the front end up by the bars requires a whole lot of effort, and on the trails that translates to a bike that you become a bit of a passenger on, steering it through the trails rather than hopping or manualling around. We’ve ridden plenty of e-bikes with shorter stays and despite the inherent weight of a motorised bike, you can still ride them like a regular bike.

On the flipside, a longer rear centre makes the Powerfly the best climbing e-bike we’ve ridden, hands down. Even with a tall 160mm fork, we took it up the nastiest inclines on the slipperiest surface with very little effort, the front end never lifted or wandered side to side. Their climbing manners are first rate.

Their climbing manners are first rate.

Climbs vs descents, stability vs agility, Toyota Landcruiser Troopy vs Suzuki Vitari? Everybody is different, we understand that. Though a middle-ground to build a more agile bike even at the sacrifice of climbing ability would be our preference.

E-Bike spec in the bag.

With the component manufactures sorting out their end of the deal and producing more parts that meet the demands of e-bikes, Trek has more to choose from. The 2019 range will have more four-piston brakes specced, tougher tyres, steel Eagle NX 12-speed cassettes and more robust forks that are tuned specifically for the heavier bikes.

Final thoughts.

While our opinions on the frame geometry remain, we appreciate that we might approach e-bikes different to others. The new bikes are very dialled, the new integrated battery will fool anyone from afar thinking it’s a regular bike, it is so aesthetically clean. And the addition of Bosch’s e-MTB mode is really clever, the bike rides very naturally.

We’re hoping to score a ride on the Powerfly 9.7 LT, to see how the OCLV carbon frame changes things, so keep your eyes out for more.

For more on the Australian range of Powerfly models head to Trek’s site here. Yiew, Powerfly!

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Trek Powerfly 2019 Review – now with a carbon frame and fully-integrated battery

The Trek Powerfly has become a true eMTB classic and has undergone several updates over the years. To keep up with the competition for the new season Trek equipped the latest version of their popular bike with an integrated battery and also introduced two fine carbon versions of the Powerfly LT. Here you’ll find all the details!

A few years back Trek did a great job and gave the Powerfly a well thought-out and very well balanced geometry — which once again fully convinced us in our latest test . Sure there are more nimble bikes on the market but the new Powerfly strikes a great balance between uphill and downhill performance. For the new season Trek sticks to the proven geometry and rear-end of the previous version but ads a fully integrated, removable battery. On top of this the new model is available in two carbon versions and the spec has been optimised too. All Plus models are now rolling on sturdy, grippy Bontrager XR4 tires and all Powerfly LT models feature powerful four-piston brakes.

Here are the highlights of the 2018 Powerfly line up at a glance:

– New fully integrated, removable battery – Two Powerfly LT carbon models – eMTB-specific fork on all Powerfly LT models – Four-piston brakes on all LT models – Bontrager XR4 tires on all Plus models – More colour options – SRAM Eagle groupset on some models – Robust RockShox Revelation on the Powerfly FS7 model – Updated Bontrager Line dropper – Powerfly Sport-Hardtail with lights and mudguards

 Trek RIB: probably the best fully-integrated and removable battery on the market

There is a vast choice of eMTBs with integrated battery on the market but only a few systems are thoroughly thought-out and refined down to the last detail. Some bikes come with super long batteries, on others the battery can’t be locked and can only be removed with the help of tools. And then there are systems made up of several parts (battery and cover). A battery can weigh up to 4 kg so when you remove it you have to be really careful not to drop it on the floor and break it.

You can tell that the engineers at Trek gave the development of the RIB system (removable integrated battery) a lot of thought. The battery and the cover are one solid unit and the 500 Wh Bosch Powertube battery can be removed to the right hand-side. The system makes sense as most of us tend to lay their bike on its left side to avoid damage to the rear derailleur. Once you released the battery with the key it will pop out by a few centimetres; after depressing the big button you can remove the battery completely. An integrated handle makes the whole procedure easier – what an ingenious system! In addition the new integration allows you to place a bottle cage and a large drinking bottle in the main frame triangle.

The new carbon frame allows for less weight and sleeker integration

The new carbon frame proves just how much Trek believed in the geometry of the previous Powerfly LT model. The Americans could have revised the geometry for the latest update of the Powerfly but decided to stick to the familiar and very popular concept instead. Therefore the main advantages of the new carbon frame are a weight reduction of around 650 g and the significantly sleeker integration and appearance of the bike. Trek has equipped the top tube with a mounting option for a Wolftooth B-RAD system. The system allows you to quickly attach either an inner-tube or a tool to the bike and forget about carrying uncomfortable backpacks on short rides. In typical Trek style all Powerfly models come with a RE:aktiv rear-shock and ABP-link which keeps the suspension fully active even under braking. The geometry can be adjusted between two positions via a flip chip.

Revised spec for the Trek Powerfly LT Alu

Even if you won’t buy one of the carbon versions with the Powerfly LT you’ll get quite a few performance upgrades in the coming season. In addition to the battery integration Trek has adapted the spec of the bikes. All Powerfly LT models feature an eBike-specific fork and powerful four-piston brakes. Trek also redesigned the Bontrager Line dropper seat post and used the new SRAM Eagle groupset. Compared to the cheaper Schwalbe Nobby Nic Performance tires the new Bontrager XR4 offer noticeably more grip and puncture protection.

The Trek Powerfly LT 2018 on the Trail

We had the opportunity to test the Powerfly LT 9 at Trek’s launch-event on the gorgeous and varied trails in the Swiss Heidi-Land. Compared to the previous model the handling of the new version has changed very little. The better grip of the new tires might be the most noticeable change on the new version of the Powerfly. Like its predecessor the new Powerfly is a confident climber. The steep seat angle and rather long chainstays will get you at the top of steep climbs without a problem.

On the downhill the Powerfly feels safe and balanced. It’s not the nimblest bike out there but it’s still very easy to ride. You won’t have to shift your body weight too much to get good grip on both wheels and the bike will always feel pleasantly predictable. But if you’re looking for a very lively super nimble bike the Powerfly might not be able to fully satisfy you. Quick direction changes and narrow sections require a very proactive riding style and quite a lot of strength.

Our take on the new Trek Powerfly LT

Good stuff made better! Trek didn’t reinvent the wheel but the new Powerfly is a better version of the popular bike with many added improvements. The handling is very similar to the previous version. However you can clearly feel the performance upgrade of the tires. Unfortunately we didn’t get the chance to ride the new carbon version yet but even just the look of it has already convinced us. We’re not sure whether the carbon upgrade is worth the extra money but since our purchasing decisions are often driven by aesthetics and emotions we think that the new Powerfly Carbon will have certainly find many fans.

For more information head to the second page or to trekbikes.com

Inhaltsübersicht

• Trek Powerfly 2018 Review
• Trek Powerfly Models, Specs & Prices

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Season:2019

Code:566748TREK19

Ready to explore bigger trails? The Trek Powerfly LT 7 Plus is a trail-tough alloy e-MTB with a durable spec and quality long travel suspension to soak up rugged terrain so you can ride the Bosch pedal-assist system to its full potential.

Trek Powerfly LT 7 Plus 2019 Features

• Trek's Removable Integrated Battery (RIB) system looks great and is super user-friendly: it fully hides the battery in the frame for protection, makes it easy to remove the battery without tools and lets you mount a water bottle cage
• Longer travel suspension and 27.5+ mid-fat tyres are the perfect combination of traction, stability and capability on rough trails
• It rides like a mountain bike because it is one: it has the same frame and suspension tech that Trek have refined in their decades-long trail heritage

2019 Trek Powerfly LT 7 Plus Build Highlights

• 150mm RockShox shock and 160mm RockShox Yari RL fork
• Bontrager Powerline Comp 40 wheels
• Shimano 11-speed drivetrain
• Four-piston hydraulic disc brakes
• Dropper post

Trek Men's Bike Sizing Guide

We have put together a general sizing guide for Trek road and mountain bikes. Please see the below for a general size and check out the Trek Bikes Sizing Guide for all bike model guides and how to measure yourself. 

Trek Men's Road Bike Sizing Guide

Trek men's mountain bike sizing guide, trek men's commute bike sizing guide, write a review for trek powerfly lt 7 plus electric bike 2019 slate, also in the range.

• £6000 £6000 Trek Powerfly FS 7 Electric Bike 2024 White Prismatic/Plasma Grey Pearl
• £4500 £4500 Trek Powerfly Equipped Sport 5 Electric Bike 2024 White Prismatic/Plasma Grey Pearl
• £4500 £4500 Trek Powerfly Equipped Sport 5 Electric Bike 2024 Dark Prismatic/Trek Black
• £3700 £3700 EX Display Trek Powerfly 7 Medium Electric Bike 2023 Crimson/Lithium
• £3299 £3425 Trek Powerfly Sport 4 Equipped Electric Bike 2023 Matte Black/Gloss Red
• £4199 £4625 Trek Powerfly Sport 7 Equipped Electric Bike 2023 Crimson/Lithium Grey
• £4199 £4625 Trek Powerfly Sport 7 Equipped Electric Bike 2023 Matte Dnister Black
• £3495 £4450 Trek Powerfly 7 Electric Bike 2023 Satin Supernova/Dnister Black
• £4450 £4450 Trek Powerfly 7 Electric Bike 2024 Crimson/Lithium Grey
• £3495 £4450 Trek Powerfly 7 Electric Bike 2023 Matte Dnister Black/Gloss Trek Black
• £3150 £3975 Trek Powerfly 5 Electric Mountain Bike Satin Blue Sage/Juniper
• £3150 £3975 Trek Powerfly 5 Electric Mountain Bike Lava/Lithium Grey
• £3975 £3975 Trek Powerfly 5 Electric Mountain Bike Dark Prismatic/Trek Black
• £2950 £3700 Trek Powerfly 4 625 Electric Bike 2023 Living Coral/Solid Charcoal
• £3199 £3700 Trek Powerfly 4 625 Electric Bike 2023 Gloss Alpine/Gloss Lithium
• £2950 £3700 Trek Powerfly 4 625 Electric Bike 2023 Matte Black/Gloss Red
• £4550 £5550 Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped Electric Bike 2023 Satin Lithium Grey/Trek Black
• £4550 £5550 Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped Electric Bike 2023 Hex Blue/Deep Dark Blue
• £3700 £4625 Trek Powerfly FS 4 Equipped Electric Bike 2023 lava/Trek Black
• £3700 £4625 Trek Powerfly FS 4 Equipped Electric Bike 2023 Matte Dnister Black
• £4850 £6025 Trek Powerfly FS7 Electric Mountain Bike 2023 Matte/Gloss Supernova
• £6025 £6025 Trek Powerfly FS7 Electric Mountain Bike 2024 Dark Prismatic/Trek Black
• £3350 £4175 Trek Powerfly FS4 Electric Bike 2023 Lava/Trek Black
• £3350 £4175 Trek Powerfly FS4 Electric Bike 2023 Matte Dnister Black/Gloss Trek Black
• £3250 £3250 Trek Powerfly 4 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Azure/Nautical Navy
• £3250 £3250 Trek Powerfly 4 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Radioactive Red/Trek Black
• £3299 £3950 Trek Powerfly 5 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Lithium/Rose Gold
• £3950 £3950 Trek Powerfly 5 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Crystal White/Lithium
• £3299 £3950 Trek Powerfly 5 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Anthracite/Volt Miami Fade
• £3950 £3950 Trek Powerfly 5 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Black/Lithium
• £3999 £4700 Trek Powerfly 7 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Factory Orange/Lithium
• £3999 £4700 Trek Powerfly 7 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Nautical Navy/Miami Green
• £3999 £4700 Trek Powerfly 7 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Dark Prismatic/Trek Black
• £4900 £4900 Trek Powerfly 7 Equipped Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Dark Prismatic
• £2999 £3550 Trek Powerfly 4 625 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Radioactive Red/Black
• £2999 £3550 Trek Powerfly 4 625 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Azure/Nautical Navy
• £3499 £4250 Trek Powerfly FS 4 500 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Crimson/Lithium
• £3499 £4250 Trek Powerfly FS 4 500 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Aquatic/Trek Black
• £3799 £4550 Trek Powerfly FS 4 625 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Aquatic/Trek Black
• £3799 £4550 Trek Powerfly FS 4 625 Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Crimson/Lithium
• £4700 £4700 Trek Powerfly FS 4 EQ Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Crimson/Lithium
• £3999 £4700 Trek Powerfly FS 4 EQ Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Aquatic/Trek Black
• £5699 £6700 Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Matte Black
• £3899 £4600 Trek Rail 5 Deore 500w Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Crimson/Lithium
• £3899 £4600 Trek Rail 5 Deore 500w Electric Mountain Bike 2022 Black/Miami Green
• £3499 £4250 Trek Powerfly FS 4 500 W Electric Mountain Bike 2021 Gunmetal/Black
• £3999 £4700 Trek Powerfly FS 4 EQ Electric Mountain Bike 2021 Gunmetal/Black
• £3799 £4550 Trek Powerfly FS 4 625 W Electric Mountain Bike 2021 Gunmetal/Black
• £2999 £3500 Trek Powerfly Sport 4 EQ Electric Hardtail Mountain Bike 2021 Grey
• £3250 £3250 Trek Powerfly 4 Electric Hardtail Mountain Bike 2021Charcoal/Miami
• £3250 £3250 Trek Powerfly 4 Electric Hardtail Mountain Bike 2021 Grey/Trek Black
• £2999 £3550 Trek Powerfly 4 625 Electric Hardtail Mountain Bike 2021 Grey/Miami
• £3550 £3550 Trek Powerfly 4 625 Electric Hardtail Mountain Bike 2021 Grey/Black
• £10.99 £10.99 Trek e-MTB Battery Cover Black
• £214.99 £249 Bosch COBI Bike Sport for E Bikes

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Trek Powerfly 7 LT Plus

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Colour / Slate

Size / 15.5, 17.5, 18.5, 19.5, 21.5

Weight / 52 lb 0.1 oz (23,590 g)

At a glance

ABP (Active Braking Pivot), Knock Block steerer stop, Integrated frame protection and motor guard, Internal cable routing

Where To Buy

Specifications

• Frame Alpha Platinum aluminum
• Fork RockShox Yari RL, DebonAir, Motion Control RL damper, boost 110, 51mm offset, 160mm
• Shock RockShox Deluxe RL, 205mm x 57.5mm
• Motor Bosch Performance CX
• Battery Bosch PowerTube, 500 Wh
• Hubs Rapid Drive, boost 110mm front, boost 148mm rear
• Wheels Bontrager Line Comp 40, tubeless ready, tubeless strips included, valves sold separately
• Wheel Size 27.5"
• Spokes DT Swiss Nailhead 14/15G spokes with Alpina alloy locking nipples
• Tires Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Inner Strength sidewalls, 120 tpi, aramid bead, 27.5 x 2.80
• Chain 474mm, N/A, 15 tooth with chainguard, Shimano HG600, 11-speed
• Crank Race Face Aeffect
• Bottom Bracket 6mm drop
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore XT M8000, Shadow Plus
• Shifters Shimano Deore XT M8000, 11-speed
• Brakeset Shimano MT520 4-piston hydraulic disc, Shimano MT520
• Handlebar Bontrager Rhythm Comp, 31.8mm diameter, 15mm rise, 780mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada
• Seatpost Bontrager dropper post, internal routing, 31.6mm, Standard single bolt, 31.6mm, Standard single bolt
• Stem Bontrager Rhythm Comp, Knock Block, 31.8mm clamp, 0 degree
• Grips Bontrager XR Trail Comp, nylon lock-on
• Headset Knock Block Integrated, sealed cartridge bearing

Q: How much is a 2019 Trek Powerfly 7 LT Plus?

A 2019 Trek Powerfly 7 LT Plus is typically priced around $5,499 USD when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: Where to buy a 2019 Trek Powerfly 7 LT Plus?

The 2019 Trek Powerfly 7 LT Plus may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: How much does a 2019 Trek Powerfly 7 LT Plus weigh?

A 2019 Trek Powerfly 7 LT Plus weights 52 lb 0.1 oz (23,590 g).

Q: What size wheels does the 2019 Trek Powerfly 7 LT Plus have?

The 2019 Trek Powerfly 7 LT Plus has 27.5" wheels.

Q: What size 2019 Trek Powerfly 7 LT Plus should I get?

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Trek Powerfly LT 7 Plus 2019

About the Trek Powerfly LT 7 Plus 2019

The Trek Powerfly LT 7 Plus 2019 is a Full suspension Enduro Mountain Bike with a alloy frame. Equipped with a Shimano XT drivetrain of 11 gears (1x11). Its features include internal routing, dropper seatpost, and boost 110 . The bike weighs approximately 23,59 kg.

Internal routing

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Trek Powerfly LT 7 NZ Slate

Electric mountain bike, out of stock.

• DESCRIPTION

DESCRIPTION +

Powerfly LT 7 is the full suspension electric mountain bike that introduces the e-MTB world to incredible trail bike capability. It brings together the Removable Integrated Battery (RIB) frame design with longer travel suspension and 27.5+ mid-fat wheels for serious capability on even the roughest trails. A 150 mm shock, 160 mm RockShox Yari RL fork, 11-speed Shimano drivetrain and a durable trail spec will hold up on your wildest all-mountain adventures.

It's right for you if...

Serious trail bike suspension, the latest in e-MTB frame design and a durable spec that will hold up to raucous all-mountain riding. These are the non-negotiables in your search for your next ride. You're going to ride on big trails with features and technical sections that demand the extra traction and stability of mid-fat tyres.

The tech you get

A durable Alpha Platinum Aluminium frame that fully encases a long-range 500 Wh battery for great aesthetics and protection on the trail, a Bosch Performance CX 250-watt motor that assists up to 32 km/h, and an ergonomic Bosch Purion controller. Plus, a 150 mm shock, 160 mm RockShox Yari RL fork with an ultra-plush DebonAir spring, grippy 27.5+ mid-fat tyres, Tubeless Line Comp 40 wheels with a 54-tooth Rapid Drive hub, a dropper post and more powerful 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes.

Why you'll love it

• Trek's Removable Integrated Battery (RIB) system looks great and is super user-friendly: it fully hides the battery in the frame for protection, makes it easy remove the battery without tools and lets you mount a water bottle cage – even on full suspension e-MTBs
• Longer travel suspension and 27.5+ mid-fat tyres are the perfect combination for traction, stability and capability on rough trails
• It rides like a mountain bike because it is one: it has the same frame and suspension tech that we've refined in our decades-long trail heritage

The final word

Longer travel suspension, quality trail spec and a powerful Bosch pedal-assist system make this an incredible e-MTB. But what brings it into the next realm is the Removable Integrated Battery (RIB) frame design, which is a major advancement in electric mountain bike engineering.

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FEIG ELECTRONIC: Moscow-City Skyscrapers Streamline Parking Access and Control with Secure RFID

Feig electronic partners with isbc group to deploy ucode dna rfid security and parking access control solution in moscow business district.

Weilburg, Germany  — December 3,  2019  —  FEIG ELECTRONIC , a leading global supplier of radio frequency identification (RFID) readers and antennas with fifty years of industry experience, announces deployment of the UCODE DNA RFID security and parking contactless identification solution in the Moscow International Business Center, known as Moscow-City, one of the world’s largest business district projects.

The management of Moscow-City not only selected long-range, passive UHF RFID to implement in its controlled parking areas, it also chose to implement UCODE DNA , the highest form of secure RAIN RFID technology, developed by NXP Semiconductors.

Panoramic view of Moscow city and Moskva River at sunset. New modern futuristic skyscrapers of Moscow-City – International Business Center, toned

“Underscoring NXP’s innovation and leadership in developing advanced RAIN RFID technologies, our UCODE DNA was chosen to be incorporated with the FEIG and ISBC implementation of the contactless identification system in the prestigious Moscow-City,” said Mahdi Mekic, marketing director for RAIN RFID with NXP Semiconductors. “This exciting project represents yet another successful deployment of NXP’s contactless portfolio, and showcases our continued ability to meet the high-security requirements of highly demanding applications without compromising user convenience.”

“UCODE DNA is considered the only identification technology to match the physical protection of a barrier with the cybersecurity necessary to truly protect entrances from unauthorized access,” said Manuel Haertlé, senior product manager for FEIG Electronic. “As a respected contactless payment technology company, FEIG applies security know-how from its payment terminals, which are fully certified according to the latest high-class security standards, into our RFID systems. FEIG vehicle access control RFID readers incorporate advanced secure key storage elements, supporting various methods for secure key injection.”

FEIG’s partner ISBC Group provided the knowledge and support for this successful implementation using  FEIG’s long-range UHF RFID . The resulting system enables authorized vehicle entry into areas reserved for private residential use or corporate tenants, while also allowing availability of temporary, fee-based visitor parking. Thanks to the cryptographic authentication of UCODE DNA, both the tag and reader must go through an authentication procedure before the reader will validate the data from the tag, which is transmitted wirelessly. This level of authentication is typically used in the most secure data communication networks.

“The system’s two-step authentication means that only authorized equipment can handle the secure protocol and the data exchange with the UCODE DNA based tag. Without the required cryptographic secrets, other readers would query the tag in vain, because the tag’s response cannot be interpreted or understood,” said Andrey Krasovskiy, director of the RFID department at ISBC Group. “On top of this, each data exchange in the authentication process is unique, so even if a malicious actor were to intercept the communication, the transmission is only good for a single exchange and the tag’s unique identity is protected from cloning.”

Established in 1992 and still growing, Moscow-City is the revitalization and transformation of an industrial riverfront into a new, modern, vibrant and upscale business and residential district. A mix of residential, hotel, office, retail and entertainment facilities, it is located about four kilometers west of Red Square along the Moscow River. Twelve of the twenty-three planned facilities have already been completed, with seven currently under construction. Six skyscrapers in Moscow-City reach a height of at least 300 meters, including Europe’s tallest building, Federation Tower, which rises more than 100 stories.

Partnering with ISBC and deploying FEIG Electronic RFID solutions, the Moscow International Business Center is delivering security and access control to its city center today, as it grows into the city of tomorrow.

About FEIG ELECTRONIC

FEIG ELECTRONIC GmbH, a leading global supplier of RFID readers and antennas is one of the few suppliers worldwide offering RFID readers and antennas for all standard operating frequencies: LF (125 kHz), HF (13.56 MHz), UHF (860-960 MHz). A trusted pioneer in RFID with more than 50 years of industry experience, FEIG ELECTRONIC delivers unrivaled data collection, authentication, and identification solutions, as well as secure contactless payment systems. Readers from FEIG ELECTRONIC, which are available for plug-in, desktop, and handheld applications, support next-generation contactless credit cards, debit cards, smart cards, NFC and access control credentials to enable fast, accurate, reliable and secure transactions. For more information, visit:  www.feig.de/en

Founded in Moscow in 2002, ISBC Group provides knowledge and support to integrators for their successful implementation of RFID and smart card-based solutions. The company specializes in the distribution of smart card equipment, contact and contactless card manufacturing, smart card and RFID personalization services, and information security.  Its Research and Design Center is focused specifically on RFID, primarily HF and UHF solutions with NXP tags, and software development for the smart card industry. For more information visit:  https://isbc-cards.com/

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Moscow’s municipal elections illustrate the growing political crisis in Russia

Associate Professor of Political Science, Indiana University

Disclosure statement

Regina Smyth has received research funding from the National Science Foundation, the National Council for Eurasian and East European Research, and Indiana University.

Indiana University provides funding as a member of The Conversation US.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ruling party, United Russia, eked out a majority in the Moscow municipal legislature in elections on Sept. 8.

While Putin’s regime touted the outcome as a victory, the election posed a significant challenge to what is called Putinism , a system that emerged in Putin’s second term to reassert Kremlin control over Russian politics. It included the creation of a dominant party, United Russia , in 2001, and the centralization of political power in the Kremlin.

Putinism relies on the president’s popularity to ensure regime stability.

United Russia may have won, but the fact that the election was so close revealed the party’s weakness and challenged its absolute control over policy. As a scholar of Russian politics, I believe the result suggests a looming political crisis as Russia looks toward national elections in 2021 and 2024.

Unexpected power

President Putin’s 2014 annexation of the Crimean Peninsula and incursion into Eastern Ukraine generated a rally-around-the-flag effect , and revived his presidency.

But by 2017, normal politics returned. A protracted recession and declining wages created popular discontent. Trust in President Putin fell to its lowest level since 2006.

In Moscow, citizens contested dangerous pollution from trash incineration . A policy to tear down Moscow’s Soviet-era housing also produced large protests. Young supporters of opposition leader Alexey Navalny demonstrated to contest corruption. A year later, they protested when the Central Election Commission barred Navalny from running in presidential elections.

Rising protest and September’s close election demonstrated the opposition’s growing capacity to capitalize on discontent.

Since the nationwide protests demanding fair elections in 2011 and 2012, opposition leaders, including Navalny’s team, have continuously reinvented campaign models .

Activists meet voters in their neighborhoods and on public transport. They link online activism to off-line persuasion. Rather than preach regime change, the campaigns reflect citizens’ everyday concerns.

Linking protest and elections

Regime controls have meant that until the recent election, opposition victories have been few.

Yet, new strategies to foil the Putin machine’s election interference have built momentum. In 2017, Moscow’s opposition used new models of campaigning to score unexpected wins in neighborhood council elections. This summer a slate of young candidates employed a similar model, cooperating to collect signatures to surpass high ballot registration hurdles.

Their efforts made politics relevant for voters alienated by corrupt elections. The effect was strongest among young people .

Fearing loss, Russia’s Central Electoral Commission controlled by Putin and his party barred 30 opposition candidates from competing . Bureaucrats relied on outdated information and mistakes in the states’ lists to disallow valid signatures.

Handwriting experts identified signatures allegedly forged by a single person. Used against the entire opposition slate, these tactics raised alarms.

The opposition called supporters to the streets. Throughout Moscow’s hot summer, police repression escalated. On July 27, more than 1,300 demonstrators were arrested . Some detainees, charged with rioting, faced long prison sentences. Pollster Denis Volkov found that the level of police violence discouraged even regime supporters .

Support for the opposition grew. On Aug. 10, more than 60,000 Muscovites took to the streets to support fair elections. This was the largest protest since 2012.

Linking elections and protest is a crucial element of opposition strategy. Capitalizing on protest crowds and press attention, Navalny created a digital Smart Vote tool. Voters registered at the website and received a text identifying a candidate who could win against a United Russia rival. The system leveraged a common strategy in developed democracies: asking voters to support their second choice to prevent the victory of a less preferred candidate.

But Smart Vote also renewed conflict among opposition leaders . Many feared that popular support for candidates from nondemocratic organizations such as the Communist Party compromised opposition morality . Yet, for Muscovites wary of increased repression , Smart Vote provided a safe way to express opposition.

Citizens respond

While Smart Vote did not increase turnout, it influenced the election’s outcome. Putin’s party may still have won a majority, but it lost a lot of races.

Anticipating popular backlash against United Russia, party candidates threw off the label and ran as independents . Despite this ploy, the party lost 15 of its 40 seats. Voters ousted high-profile candidates such as Andrey Meletsky , the chairman of the Moscow United Russia Organization.

Opposition strategy created important longer-term dynamics. The opposition faction in the City Council rose from 12.5% to 44%, revealing Russians’ potential to make demands on government. Around the world, when biased elections become competitive, disengaged voters quickly reengage .

Controlled elections should not be assessed solely in terms of winners and losers. The contest was a battle of strategy won by the opposition. The regime was forced to create a legal way for state candidates to run as independents. The change provided an opportunity for opposition inroads.

The election also shaped national leadership battles. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin is seen as a potential successor to Vladimir Putin in 2024. His inability to stop protests or safeguard vote support led Kremlin rivals to attack him . The election also undermined Prime Minister and United Russia party leader Dmitry Medvedev, a close Putin ally.

Regime weakness

Moscow’s recent elections illustrate an inherent challenge in nondemocratic elections. Despite extensive advantages, autocrats’ electoral strategies can reveal new evidence of opposition strength. Banning opposition candidates demonstrates incumbents’ fears about their popularity.

Voters responded by protesting and voting against the regime’s candidates. This election revealed that the old system of electoral control is breaking down.

Yet, one election does not suggest imminent revolution. Russian voters remain wary of sudden change. The Kremlin has proven adept at strategic adaptation. Its challenges to Google and Facebook are one way to short-circuit Smart Vote copycats. The raids against Navalny allies across the country suggest a more aggressive tactic.

But increased repression makes Putinism appear brittle. Russian voters are looking beyond President Putin and Putinism for solutions to everyday problems. The opposition has given unexpected voice to their demands.

For the Kremlin, this challenge raised the cost of winning elections through manipulation.

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• Vladimir Putin
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• political unrest
• Russian opposition
• United Russia Party

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Hundreds arrested at Moscow demonstration for free elections

Recent wave of Moscow protests was sparked by move to ban all but a few opposition candidates vying for city council.

Moscow, Russia – More than 1,000 people, including opposition leaders and city council election candidates, were arrested on Saturday as police cracked down on an unsanctioned demonstration for fair elections.

Hundreds of riot police and members of the national guard were dispatched to the centre of the capital, closing down streets near the planned protest site at city hall and rerouting demonstrators and bystanders.

Countrywide discontent

The recent wave of Moscow protests , which began with a round of smaller rallies between July 15 and 19, was sparked by the decision of the Russian election committee – strongly linked to central power – to ban all but a few opposition and independent candidates vying for the city council seats.

The move led to a campaign on social media among Moscow residents and activists to take to the streets.

The pushback also comes against a backdrop of growing discontent nationwide as Putin’s approval ratings slip .

The northern region of Arkhangelsk has been the theatre of a year-long battle and occupation by locals of the site of a huge new landfill to be built in the middle of an untouched forest. In the Urals metropolis of Yekaterinburg, thousands demonstrated for several days in May against the building of a new cathedral at a local park.

Given this climate of citizen anger and grassroots movements popping up in various regions, authorities have become wary of political opposition gaining any more traction as shown by Saturday’s crackdown.

Police have blocked off all ways towards City Hall. Protesters fight to get through pic.twitter.com/vqxx6CMLAR — Evan Gershkovich (@evangershkovich) July 27, 2019