February 11, 2021 - Designed as a no holds barred e-gravel bike, Kona’s Libre EL features an impressive blend of capable pedal assist power and confidence-inspiring components to really push what is possible on a 700c/650b drop bar bicycle.
Putting this e-bike to the test in infamous Squamish, British Columbia, amidst the mountainous terrain and technical forest roads, really shed light on where this machine excels, and the benefits that an e-gravel bike has to offer.
Right from the get-go, my initial impression was just how comfortable the rider position felt. With a 398mm reach and 71 degree head angle on the 54 cm frame, the aluminum-butted frame delivered a noticeably solid balance between being upright enough to feel confident on super steep terrain, and still optimal for flat roads and gravel climbs. If anything, it felt more towards the former, which was greatly appreciated at high speeds and adventuring into some easy singletrack when it popped up on the side of the road.
In looking at its ability to go up, the Shimano STEPS E7000 drive unit definitely provided all the power needed to have a ton of fun on the bike. Topping out at a substantial 32 km/h, I was truly blown away by how far and fast the system can help you ride. With four pedal-assist modes to choose from, it was pretty amazing to be able to “pick your ride”, and level of effort, depending on how you were feeling or what you wanted to do that day. The 504wh Shimano battery lasted 2-4 hours depending on how it was used, which was generally more than enough needed, and was super easy to adjust with the heads up display unit.
At 5’10, I was riding a 54cm, and loved just how snappy this bike felt underneath me thanks to the Libre EL’s 650b wheel setup. Featuring fairly wide 650b x 47c WTB Venture tires you can experience a great amount of cornering confidence, stability, and suppleness which was hugely appreciated when pointing the bike downwards. Considering it also comes with a TranzX dropper seatpost and the smaller wheel size, it is no doubt that Kona designed this bike to match the fun and capable feeling on the uphills with the same feeling for the downs – they definitely nailed it.
The bigger gearing courtesy of the 11-42 cassette was appreciated on really steep terrain, and at no point did I feel limited by the Libre EL’s 11-speed Shimano GRX drivetrain. The only downside was the weight when riding over the 32km/h limit of assist from the E7000 motor but this is to be expected with most e-bikes. Still those occasions were few and far between, and easily eclipsed by the massive all-round benefits of the added power.
What I found most interesting about this e-bike was its ability to explore places that would be otherwise be hard, if not impossible, to reach. Yes, the Libre EL does live up to the “go farther and faster” e-bike mantra, which was especially true on mountainous terrain. I was able to get up steeper and more technical forest roads than I ever had, and was able to access the alpine like never before, which was pretty unbelievable and satisfying.
All in all, Libre EL checks all the boxes for those looking for the best possible machine to get you off the beaten path and onto your next adventure. With the power ranging from all day support, to some extra kick to get you up a steep climb, it’s definitely a worthy consideration for the gravel rider looking for a versatile steed to help them go one step farther.
The SRP is $5,799 and for more information please visit here.
