Megamo Unveils Upon Electric Road Bike with Powerful Avinox M2S Motor

Megamo has unveiled its latest innovation, the Upon electric road bike, equipped with the high-performance Avinox M2S motor. This cutting-edge motor, known for its formidable 1,500W peak power and 150Nm of torque, is making its debut in the road cycling segment after previously disrupting the e-MTB market. The Upon aims to offer a powerful assist for road cyclists, particularly on challenging climbs, while adhering to regulatory speed limits. This move by Megamo, integrating such a potent motor, sparks a debate within the e-bike industry regarding the balance between power, performance, and existing regulations for pedal-assist bicycles.

Megamo's Powerful Entry into Electric Road Cycling

In a significant development for the electric cycling world, Megamo has launched its Upon electric road bike, featuring the second-generation Avinox M2S motor. This motor, developed by Avinox – the e-bike division of drone manufacturing giant DJI – first appeared in April, bringing its impressive capabilities to the fore. The M2S motor delivers a remarkable 1,500W of peak power and 150Nm of torque, far exceeding the typical output of standard premium mid-drive systems from brands like Bosch and Shimano, which usually offer around 50Nm of torque.

While the bike's power assistance will be capped at 15.5 mph (25 km/h) in regions like the UK and EU, in compliance with local regulations, the substantial torque and power ensure riders receive considerable support during demanding situations such as steep ascents and rapid acceleration. The Avinox M2S system offers a continuous output of approximately 1,300W and 130Nm, with the full 150Nm available during a time-limited boost mode.

The Megamo Upon diverges significantly from the prevailing trend of "super light" (SL) e-road bikes, which typically feature less powerful motors (around 50Nm) and smaller batteries (250-360Wh) to emulate the feel of a traditional, unassisted ride. In contrast, the Upon embraces raw power, boasting a large 600Wh integrated battery and an emphasis on robust performance. Despite this high power, Megamo states that the provisional weight of the Upon is under 14kg, making it a relatively lightweight option for its category.

The bike is built around a carbon frame designed with all-road geometry, featuring a 71-degree head angle and a 75-degree seat angle for enhanced stability and an accessible fit rather than aggressive race-oriented handling. It offers ample tire clearance and comes equipped with 42mm Vittoria Corsa Pro Control tires. Additional features include UDH compatibility and a 27.2mm seat post. Megamo aims to attract experienced cyclists, particularly those aged 45-70, who seek to maintain their speed during climbs and group rides. The Upon is available in three configurations: the top-tier Upon 05 with Ultegra Di2 (priced at £6,499), the Upon 15 with Shimano 105 (£5,995), and the Upon 20, which utilizes a lower-power M2 motor and mechanical gearing (£3,999).

The introduction of the Megamo Upon, with its powerful Avinox M2S motor, highlights a fascinating and evolving challenge within the e-bike industry: how to balance technological advancement with regulatory frameworks and user expectations. While Avinox advocates for innovation without arbitrary power limits, the potential for software-based derestriction of such powerful motors poses questions about classification and safety. This bike's release underscores the ongoing debate over whether high-power motors foster a new era of inclusivity in cycling or risk blurring the lines between pedal-assist bicycles and motor vehicles. For riders, it offers an enticing glimpse into a future where electric assistance could dramatically reshape the road cycling experience.