Introducing The Cannondale Moterra SL
The current eMTB market largely offers two main options catering to different preferences and needs. On one side, there are full power models designed for those seeking long range and robust assistance for challenging terrains, albeit with a heavier weight due to larger batteries and more powerful motors. Conversely, the market also features lightweight eMTBs that prioritize ease of handling and portability, achieved through smaller, lower-capacity batteries. These lighter models offer a more traditional biking feel with the added convenience of a small amount of electric support, but usually at the detriment of range.
Enter the new Cannondale Moterra SL.
The Moterra SL stands out as the premier E-mountain bike, boasting a unique combination of features: it delivers 85Nm of torque, over 600W peak output, and 601Wh of battery capacity, all within a lightweight frame that tips the scales from just 19.3kg / 42.5lbs. This 150mm trail bike merges full-power performance with nimble agility, positioning it in a league entirely its own as the lightest full-power eMTB ever.
Electric mountain bikes have never before combined such immense power with a remarkably light frame. The Moterra SL is distinguished by its lightweight carbon fiber frame, which incorporates Cannondale's innovative FlexPivot technology for superior weight reduction. It's equipped with a bespoke battery that offers a higher wattage per kilogram than any competitor. This unparalleled power-to-weight ratio delivers an exceptionally exhilarating riding experience. Is the Moterra SL the best e-MTB ever? It may possibly be.
| CATEGORY Electric | Mountain | BATTERY Internal 601Wh |
| DRIVE UNIT Shimano EP801 | RANGE Up to 70km (43mi) |
| WHEEL / TIRE SIZE (F) 29x2.5" / (R) 27.5x2.4" | TRAVEL (F) 160mm, (R) 150mm |
Shimano EP801 Drive Unit
Shimano's eMTB system stands out for its combination of lightweight design, dependability, and robust performance. It boasts an impressive 85Nm of torque and a maximum output of 600 watts, channeled through specially designed ride modes to maximize enjoyment with full-power. This eMTB system ensures an exhilarating ride every time.
Custom 601Wh Battery
Leveraging advanced cells that offer unprecedented power density, Cannondale have developed an exceptionally compact battery. This unit crams an impressive 601Wh into merely 3.1 kg, wiring harness included. The Moterra SL delivers all the power you need, without the extra weight.
Custom-Tuned Ride Modes
Custom-tailored assist modes ensure an ideal riding experience: ECO - optimized for maximum range, perfect for all-day adventures. TRAIL - offers a balanced mid-power setting, ideal for group rides on lightweight e-bikes. BOOST - increases the assist level for high-intensity rides with full-power e-bikes. TURBO - delivers constant full power for those who demand the utmost from their ride. Choose the mode that suits your style.
Proportional Response Design
Cannondale's Proportional Response design tailors every aspect of the bike to its size, from the suspension setup and geometry to the chain stay length. This approach ensures a performance that's personalized for you, offering a ride that's truly made to fit.
Flip It Your Way
The Flip Chip feature allows you to customize the Moterra SL according to your preferences: maintain it as a "mullet" bike, with a 29-inch wheel in front and a 27.5-inch wheel at the rear for nimbleness and fun, or switch to 29-inch wheels on both ends for enhanced traction and rolling efficiency.
FlexPivot
These carbon flex points are something Cannondale pioneered years ago, and they’re like a cheat code in frame engineering. They reduce weight, eliminate maintenance, and they allow Cannondale to use a sophisticated four-bar suspension design, increasing your traction and control on the trail.
Choice Of Cable Routing
For the model 1 and 2 bikes, you have the option to route internal cables directly through the headset for a sleek appearance and added protection, or through frame ports for straightforward maintenance and simplicity.
Adjustable Headset
Adjustable headset cups offer a 1.2-degree range for angle adjustment at the front end. Lower the angle for enhanced stability during high-speed rides or steepen it for increased agility on technical trails.
Integrated Bashguard
Similar to a helmet safeguarding your head, an integrated bashguard shields your motor from rough impacts encountered on the trail. While it might not always be necessary, you'll be grateful for its presence when the situation calls for it.
The Cannondale Moterra SL is engineered with an aggressive geometry that prioritizes stability and precise handling, particularly on steep and technical terrain. The head tube angle of 62.5º is slacker than traditional setups, which significantly enhances the bike's ability to tackle downhill sections with confidence, improving control when navigating through challenging trails. Such a slack angle ensures that the front wheel is positioned further in front of the rider, which increases stability at high speeds and on steep descents. On the other hand, the seat tube angle of 77.0º is relatively steep, which positions the rider more directly over the pedals. This design optimizes pedaling efficiency and power transfer, especially on climbs, by promoting a more upright and forward riding position. For riders choosing the XL frame size, a reach of 50.5cm offers a spacious cockpit that allows for a comfortable yet aggressive riding stance, further enhancing control and responsiveness. This combination of geometry figures means the Cannondale Moterra SL is built for riders seeking a high-performance e-MTB capable of excelling in both climbing efficiency and descending prowess.
Moterra SL 1
Frame Series 1 Carbon construction, 150mm travel, 55mm chainline, UDH hanger
Fork Fox Float Factory 36, 160mm travel, Grip2 Damper, 44mm offset
Rear Shock Fox Float X Factory, 2 pos adj, EVOL LV, 210x55mm
Drive Unit Shimano EP801
Battery Custom 601Wh battery
Display Shimano SC-EM800 Cycle Computer, Bluetooth LE Compatible
Rear Derailleur SRAM XO Eagle AXS, T-Type
Brakes SRAM Code Silver Stealth, 200mm HS2 rotors
Brake Levers SRAM Code Silver Stealth
Hubs DT Swiss 350 (F) 15x110mm / (R) 12x148mm
Rims DT Swiss XM 1700 Spline, 30mm inner width, TC tubeless ready
Tires Maxxis (F) Minion DHF, 29x2.5" / (R) Maxxis Dissector, 27.5x2.4"
Seatpost Cannondale DownLow Dropper, internal routing, 31.6, 150mm (S), 170mm (M-XL)
Moterra SL 2
Frame Series 1 Carbon construction, 150mm travel, 55mm chainline, UDH hanger
Fork Fox Performance 36, 160mm travel, Grip Damper, 44mm offset
Rear Shock Fox Float X Performance Elite, 2 pos adj, EVOL LV, 210x55mm
Drive Unit Shimano EP801
Battery Custom 601Wh battery
Display Shimano SC-EM800 Cycle Computer, Bluetooth LE Compatible
Rear Derailleur Shimano XT
Brakes Shimano Deore 6120 4-piston hydraulic disc, 180/180mm RT64 rotors
Brake Levers Shimano Deore hydraulic disc
Hubs (F) Formula DC-71132h / (R) DT Swiss 370 Hybrid, 32h
Rims Stans Arch MK4, tubeless ready
Tires Maxxis (F) Minion DHF, 29x2.5"Â / (R) Maxxis Dissector, 27.5x2.4"
Seatpost Cannondale DownLow, internal routing, 31.6, 150mm (S), 170mm (M-XL)
