 |
| Decathlon’s Rockrider E-EXPL 100 e-bike |
Hot on the heels of its premium LTD model, Decathlon has officially unveiled the more affordable Rockrider E-EXPL 100, expanding its electric mountain bike lineup for the French market. This new hardtail e-bike aims to bring capable electric-assisted trail riding to a broader audience, with a price tag that turns heads.
The launch comes just days after the brand introduced the higher-specification E-EXPL 100 LTD. While both bikes share the same rugged hardtail aluminum frame and 29-inch wheel foundation, Decathlon has strategically differentiated them through key components to hit a compelling new price point.
Motor and Battery: The Core Differences
The most notable distinction lies in the drive system. The new standard E-EXPL 100 is equipped with a Vision VRNH105 rear-hub motor. Its more expensive sibling, the LTD, uses a proprietary Rockrider-branded motor. Despite the different branding, both units share identical core performance figures: a nominal 250W (316W peak) output, 43 Nm of torque, and a top assisted speed of 25 km/h (16 mph). Both also feature three levels of pedal assist and a walk-assist mode.
The gap widens with the battery. The E-EXPL 100 comes with a 360 Wh battery, which Decathlon estimates is good for up to 50 km (31 miles) of range. This is a significant step down from the LTD's substantial 499 Wh pack, rated for up to 100 km. For riders planning shorter, more frequent trail laps or urban commutes, however, the standard pack may suffice.
Interested in the full technical specs or looking to check current availability? You can find the official listing for the Decathlon Rockrider E-EXPL 100 hardtail e-MTB on Decathlon's French website here.
Brakes, Features, and the Weight Trade-Off
Another area of compromise is the braking system. The new E-EXPL 100 is fitted with mechanical disc brakes (180 mm front / 160 mm rear), while the LTD enjoys more powerful and less maintenance-intensive dual-piston hydraulic discs.
Both bikes share many common features that are excellent at this price point: a 7-speed Microshift drivetrain, 29-inch Kenda tires, a 100 mm travel suspension fork, and integrated lights. They also both include an LED controller on the handlebars with a handy USB-C port for charging devices on the go.
The LTD version adds practical accessories as standard, including fenders, a rear luggage rack, and a kickstand—items a rider might add later to the base model. There’s also a slight weight difference: a medium E-EXPL 100 tips the scales at approximately 24.5 kg, compared to the LTD's ~26 kg.
Price and Availability: The Big Sell
The most compelling argument for the new model is its price. The Decathlon Rockrider E-EXPL 100 carries a recommended retail price of €999.99. This makes it a full €700 cheaper than the €1,699.99 E-EXPL 100 LTD, positioning it as a serious contender in the entry-level e-MTB segment.
Potential buyers should note, however, that early interest appears high. At the time of writing, all four frame sizes (S, M, L, XL) are listed as out of stock on Decathlon's French website. The brand has not yet announced when more units will be available or when the bike might roll out to other European countries.
The Verdict
With the E-EXPL 100, Decathlon's Rockrider brand is strategically targeting the value-driven e-bike enthusiast. It retains the essential e-MTB experience—a torquey motor, sturdy 29er platform, and capable geometry—while carefully selecting cost-saving components in the battery and brake departments.
For riders seeking maximum range, premium braking feel, and included commuting accessories, the E-EXPL 100 LTD remains the go-to choice. But for those wanting to enter the world of electric mountain biking without breaking the bank, the new E-EXPL 100 presents a very tempting gateway.
For a detailed look at the premium LTD model that preceded this launch, you can read our coverage of the Decathlon Rockrider E-EXPL 100 LTD announcement here.
 |
| Decathlon’s Rockrider E-EXPL 100 LTD e-bike |
 |
| Decathlon’s Rockrider E-EXPL 100 LTD e-bike |
 |
| Decathlon’s Rockrider E-EXPL 100 LTD e-bike |