The gravel scene is buzzing, and the electric wave is reshaping its boundaries. In a move eagerly anticipated by adventure cyclists, Marin Bikes has officially thrown its hat into the e-gravel ring with the debut of the Lombard E. Marking the brand's first-ever foray into the electric gravel bike segment, the Lombard E launches in Europe with two distinct models designed to blend rugged capability with a modern assist system.
This isn't just another e-bike; it's Marin's answer to the call for longer, steeper, and more ambitious off-road explorations. Let's dive into what makes the Lombard E1 and E2 a compelling new choice for gravel enthusiasts.
Two Models, One Vision: The Lombard E1 and E2
Marin is introducing two versions of the Lombard E: the Lombard E1 and the Lombard E2. At first glance, you'd be hard-pressed to tell them apart. They share the same foundational frame and motor system, a testament to a design focused on performance from the ground up. However, the devil is in the details—and the components. The E2 positions itself as the premium offering, boasting a spec sheet that justifies its higher price tag for riders seeking top-tier technology.
The Heart of the Adventure: Bosch SX Sprint Motor & Integrated Battery
Powering the Lombard E's adventures is one of the most talked-about systems in the lightweight e-bike world: the Bosch SX Sprint motor. This compact and powerful motor is renowned for its natural ride feel and impressive power-to-weight ratio, making it a perfect partner for a gravel bike that needs to feel nimble on climbs and responsive on technical terrain.
Paired with this motor is a fully integrated 400 Wh PowerTube battery. This sleek design keeps the bike's lines clean and protects the power source from the elements. While Marin has yet to release official figures on top speed, maximum range, and torque, the combination of the Bosch SX motor with a 400Wh battery suggests a bike built for substantial rides, from rolling country lanes to multi-hour backcountry epics.
Frame and Fork: Aluminum Endurance Meets Carbon Comfort
Staying true to the gravel ethos of durability and compliance, the Lombard E features a lightweight aluminum frame. This is paired with a full carbon fiber fork, a combination that Marin states "ensures a smooth and comfortable ride even on rough terrains." The carbon fork helps dampen vibrations from chunky gravel and uneven paths, reducing rider fatigue and increasing control—a crucial feature when you're miles from the nearest pavement.
For a closer look at the geometry and design philosophy, you can explore the official Lombard E series page on the Marin Bikes website.
E1 vs. E2: Where the Specs Diverge
This is where potential buyers will need to make their choice. Both models come equipped with wide, gravel-ready tires and reliable Shimano GRX hydraulic disc brakes, providing confident stopping power in all conditions. The differences lie in the drivetrain and added features.
- Lombard E1: The entry-point model is equipped with a Shimano GRX 12-speed mechanical drivetrain. It's a workhorse groupset, proven on gravel roads worldwide, offering precise and dependable shifting.
- Lombard E2: The premium model steps up with a Shimano GRX Di2 12-speed electronic drivetrain. This brings wireless shifting to the table—flawless, lightning-fast gear changes at the touch of a button, without any cable friction or maintenance. Additionally, the E2 boasts a Trans X dropper seatpost, a game-changing feature for adventurous descending. This allows riders to lower their saddle on the fly for better bike control and confidence on steep, technical drops.
It's also worth noting that both models forego a traditional LCD display, leaning into a minimalist, app-based control system for a cleaner handlebar setup.
Pricing, Availability, and Colorways
The Lombard E1 starts at €3,899 and is available in a stylish White and Brown dual-tone finish. The higher-spec Lombard E2 is priced at €4,699 and comes in a Grey and Blue dual-tone scheme. Both models are available in a range of sizes (S, M, L, XL) to fit a wide variety of riders.
With the launch of the Lombard E, Marin Bikes has firmly planted its flag in the e-gravel territory. By leveraging the innovative Bosch SX motor and offering two distinct build kits, they are catering to both newcomers to electric gravel and seasoned riders looking for the ultimate electronic-equipped adventure machine. The wait is over—the future of gravel exploration is here, and it's electrified.
