The line between the road less traveled and the trail well-explored is getting blurrier, and Marin Bikes is charging straight through it. In a move eagerly anticipated by the cycling community, the California-born brand has officially launched its first-ever electric gravel bike: the Lombard E. Debuting in Europe with two distinct models, the Lombard E1 and E2, this new platform promises to redefine adventure cycling by combining Marin’s renowned gravel geometry with the latest in compact, lightweight e-bike technology from Bosch.
This isn't just another e-bike; it's a key to unlocking longer, steeper, and more remote explorations. Let's dive into what makes the Lombard E a significant new player in the booming e-gravel segment.
The Heart of the Adventure: Bosch SX Sprint Power
At the core of both the Lombard E1 and E2 beats the same powerful, yet compact, heart: the Bosch SX Sprint motor. This is a critical detail for gravel purists who might be wary of a bulky or unnatural riding experience. The SX motor is renowned for its minimalistic design and natural pedal assist, providing a seamless boost that feels more like a perpetual tailwind than a jarring push.
Paired with the motor is a sleek, integrated 400 Wh PowerTube battery. This design choice is a win for aesthetics and practicality, keeping the bike's lines clean and protecting the power source from the elements. By tucking the battery away inside the down tube, Marin ensures the Lombard E retains the agile, balanced feel of a traditional gravel bike, just with a lot more get-up-and-go when you need it. While official figures for top speed, maximum range, and torque are still under wraps, the Bosch SX system is known for its responsive performance, suggesting the Lombard E will be more than capable of tackling long, mixed-surface epics.
Two Paths, One Platform: Lombard E1 vs. E2
While they share the same foundation, the Lombard E1 and E2 cater to different riders and budgets through their component spec. The good news? You’re not choosing between different frame designs. Both models feature the same sharp-looking aluminum frame paired with a full carbon fork—a combo Marin says is engineered to soak up vibrations and provide a smooth, comfortable ride on everything from washboard gravel to rutted farm tracks.
Lombard E1: The Pure Adventurer
The Lombard E1 sits as the accessible entry point into the e-gravel world. It’s equipped with a rock-solid, fully mechanical Shimano GRX 12-speed drivetrain. This groupset is the gold standard for gravel, offering crisp, reliable shifting in all conditions. It’s the perfect setup for the rider who values simplicity and robust performance without the need for electronic bells and whistles. Stopping power is handled by dependable Shimano GRX hydraulic disc brakes, a non-negotiable for confident descending on loose surfaces.
Lombard E2: The Tech-Forward Explorer
Stepping up to the Lombard E2 is where the experience gets a significant tech upgrade. The headline feature here is the Shimano GRX Di2 12-speed electronic groupset. This means wireless, flawless shifting at the touch of a button. No cables to stretch, no mud-induced mis-shifts—just precise gear changes, every single time.
But the upgrades don't stop there. The E2 also boasts a Trans X dropper seatpost, a feature once reserved for mountain bikes that is becoming a game-changer for gravel. The ability to lower your saddle with a button click provides unparalleled confidence and control on steep, technical descents, allowing you to shift your weight back and maneuver the bike more freely. This combination of wireless shifting and a dropper post makes the E2 a truly modern adventure machine.
For a closer look at the geometry and design that makes these bikes tick, you can explore the official Lombard series page on the Marin Bikes website.
A Clean, Focused Cockpit
In a nod to the "less is more" gravel philosophy, Marin has opted for a clean cockpit on both Lombard E models. You won't find a bulky LCD display here. Instead, the bike relies on a minimalist control unit and is compatible with app-based controls via the Bosch eBike Flow app, allowing riders to use their smartphones for ride data and motor tuning. This approach keeps the handlebars uncluttered and the focus on the trail ahead.
Pricing, Availability, and Final Thoughts
The Lombard E is making a stylish entrance. The E1 is available in a White/Brown dual-tone scheme, while the E2 comes in a sleek Grey/Blue colorway. Both models are offered in sizes S, M, L, and XL to suit a wide range of riders.
With a starting price of €3,899 for the Lombard E1 and €4,699 for the feature-packed Lombard E2, Marin is positioning itself competitively in the growing e-gravel market.
The launch of the Lombard E signals a clear commitment from Marin to the future of adventure cycling. By leveraging the compact Bosch SX motor and offering two well-specified models, they’ve created an e-gravel platform that is both accessible and aspirational. Whether you're a gravel veteran looking to extend your range or a newcomer seeking a capable partner for epic journeys, the Lombard E is a compelling invitation to see where the path can take you.
