When it comes to electric biking, Trek is among the major pioneering brands best known for its top-notch performance and mountain bikes. However, the American-based manufacturer is making major moves into the urban commuter space with its fresh lineup of sleekly designed yet powerful and amazingly swift electric city bikes.
Trek’s Allant+ product line spans 10 different electric bikes that offer high levels of efficiency for the urban dweller. The bikes are priced between $3,600 and $6,000 dollars and you can credit this not-so-affordable cost to, among others, the top-of-the-range Bosch engine that is not only lighter but offers very little resistance.
But what more can you get from this Trek e-cruiser, we take a comprehensive look at the specs on the electric bike to see if it’s worth your money!
Frame
The frame of the Trek Allant+ is made up of a high-performance hydroformed aluminum alloy material that offers an excellent balance between strength and weight. The tapered headtube and 15-mm thru-axle are strong while the coil spring suspension fork makes light work of bumpy rides. A lockout feature has been included to make for efficiency during smooth rides.
I like the frame shape of the Allant+, which is pretty inviting and accommodating for all types of rides. With a downward-slanting top tube, the stand-over height is greatly reduced to 32.3”, with the step-through versions going even lower to 27.8”. This makes it possible to get on and off the bike with little to no hassle, even for shorter users.
Don’t be fooled by the polished surface of the frame, beneath it lurks a punch of power! You will fall in love with Trek’s Removable Internal Battery (RIB) system, which fully conceals the battery inside the frame for a user-friendly and aesthetically seamless design. This allows you to conveniently remove the battery pack for off-bike charging or storage.
Overall, the Allan+ boasts a comfortable frame geometry that consists of ergonomic Bontrager rubber grips on the handlebar for cock-sure steering. The 31.6mm seat post is fairly wide, which allows for suspension posts. This is a wonderful consideration that will benefit individuals with sensitive backs, shoulders, or necks.
I also like the inclusion of fenders, which not only blend immaculately with the color scheme of the Allant+ but are also long and wide enough to keep you dry in wet conditions. You get plenty of mounts for improved carrying capacity and a rear rack that will come in handy when you have to carry a bag of groceries.
Engine
The Allant+ line of bikes utilizes two different kinds of Bosch motors. Some models come fitted with a Bosch Performance Line CX motor that will propel the machine to top speeds of 20mph. But if you are a speed demon, you can go for the faster Bosch Performance Speed motor that will see you reaching 28mph at maximum cruise speed.
I like that all the Alliant+ bikes use a mid-drive motor, which provides a better weight balance on the bike and allows you to enjoy a more natural ride. The engine produces a powerful 75Nm of torque, which should see you scale small hills without flinching. However, it sucks the battery power faster than you’d want.
The 4th generation Bosch Performance Line CX motors on the Allant+ have gotten relatively smaller and lighter, weighing around 2.5lbs less than the 3rd generation for improved efficiency. Trek did a thoughtful job of adding an aluminum alloy skid plate below the engine to protect against damage from logs, rocks, and other debris on the ground.
Nevertheless, I should note that the Gen 4 motor produces a noticeable noise during operation, which may get under your nerves. I really enjoyed using the Purion controller fitted on the Alliant. The display panel is handily compact, intuitive, and provides dynamic range readouts to keep you in the know about the progress of your ride.
Its small size leaves you with ample maneuver room on the handlebar for smooth scrolling through settings, as well as for any additional accessories you may want to have, such as extra lights or cycle computers.
Battery
The Allant+ is backed by a lithium-ion 500Wh battery pack that has seamlessly been integrated into the bike’s downtube. The battery can easily be removed from the right side and charged off the bike. The powerful battery will allow you a maximum of 120 miles in range.
However, if somehow you feel like you still need more juice in the tank, Trek gives you an option to get the Bosch Range Boost battery. This is basically a second battery that doubles the range for a day-long adventure in the outdoors. The only downside is that aside from the extra weight you’ll be adding, the battery will cost you another $1,000, if not more!
Also, the Bosch Range Boost extra battery pack is only limited to Allnat+ bike models with a high-step frame, since it has two bottle cage bosses. This is, however, not possible in the step-through frame version, so you’ll have to make do with the 500Wh capacity, which is still decent.
Brakes
The Shimano MT200 hydraulic braking system used on the Allant+ offers efficient barking performance on all kinds of surfaces. It ensures that you can ride with more confidence knowing that you have full control of the ride no matter the prevailing weather conditions.
The brake levers are quite responsive and function seamlessly with the slightest pull. You’ll be able to stop the bike in its tracks whenever necessary, so steep downhill rides should not scare you!
Rims
I like the great choice of rims that Trek used on this bike. The Alexrims aluminum not only saves weight for smooth handling but also gives the wheels the ruggedness to handle rough rides without yielding. The double-wall rims pair well with the 2.25” G-one tires and their 27.5” diameter allows for faster and smoother rolling on bumps.
Unfortunately, neither wheel is set for quick release and you’ll need a hex wrench to remove them. This can give you a heck of a task during maintenance if you don't know how to work your way around a bike wheel.
Tires
The Schwalbe G-one tires on the Allant+ come in quite handy for urban use. They are wide enough to offer just enough traction on the city tarmac without slowing down the cruise. A puncture-resistant casing throughout the tires means you’ll have fewer inconveniences because of flat tires.
The only thing that you should worry about is rough terrain that may not be as forgiving for your tires as the city streets are.
If you’re planning on using this e-bike only for urban riding, there’s nothing to worry about here. However, the low profile of the bike paired with the tires made for specific terrain isn’t the best combination for rocky, steep mountain hills.
What Do We Like About Allant+?
I really like the RIB system chosen by Trek on this Bike. Not only does it make for a user-friendly experience but also improves the overall aesthetics of the bike. As if it’s not enough that you get extensive range from the 500Wh battery pack; the bike goes one better to offer you the choice of doubling this range with the Bosch Boost Range battery, which can only mean a fun-filled day of exploring the outdoors.
The bike’s geometry is built for comfort and efficiency, thanks to an aluminum frame that keeps you stable and agile. The coil spring makes for a smoother ride while the wide seat post ensures that you won’t be fidgeting to find the perfect riding posture.
Trek has included plenty of rack mounts on the bike to allow for increased carrying and storage capacity. These will come in handy on those long trips where you need to carry a water bottle, as well as some accessories. Additionally, the rear rack is great for those with a small backpack or a bag of shopping you just bought in the city.
The Bosch Performance CX motor has the potential to get you to very high speeds. Whether you’re using the bike for your daily commute to work or for running errands around town, you can expect that you’ll never run behind schedule!
The included fenders on the front and rear tires will keep you dry during the wet season. Also, the bike stand serves to improve the overall practicality of the Allant+.
PROS
What Don’t We Like About Allant+?
The 4th generation Bosch motor used on the Allant+ has a notable noise profile that can end up being a nuisance to anyone who appreciates a low-key ride.
The bike is only available in one color, Glossy Nautical Navy, which, in fairness, looks gender-neutral to me. However, I’m sure fans would have loved more color options.
We know that this may not be a huge deal for some of you. But for those who want e-bikes that will match their style - well, this counts as a downside.
Cons
Trek Allant E-bike Series
The Allant E-bikes series from Trek is composed of three different variations that include the Allant 7, 8, and 9.9. Each of these models also feature high-step and step-through designs. The Allant 9.9 is made up of a carbon frame and fork while the other two use aluminum alloy material. It also features a 12-speed drivetrain while the Allant 8 uses 10-speed, and 9-speed for the Allant 7.
Advice to Buyers
The Allant+ line of bikes from Trek boast a high-quality performance thanks to a collection of advanced specs. Whichever model you decide to go with, you can expect a lot of practicality that will allow you to go about your daily schedule with improved efficiency and comfort.
The important thing to note is that the cheapest you can get the Alliant+ bike for is $3,600, which is no pocket change, even for an electric bike. The silver lining is you’re getting an amazing e-bike that has been tested and proven. Also, for a big-name brand like Trek, there is a wide range of services to enjoy that you won’t get from other brands.
Conclusion
Clearly, there is so much to look forward to from the Trek Allan+ electric bike. This urban-worthy machine boasts the profile to take your e-bike experience to the next level with its powerful motor, long-range battery, user-friendly controller, and overall luxurious geometry!
The ride is not only smooth and hassle-free but also gives you an outdoor experience like you’ve had before. Overall, there’s very little to complain about this bike apart from its premium price. In the end, I am pretty certain that you’re getting great value for your money!
Our Rating - 92/100
The Trek Allant+ is a top-performance e-bike that was designed for commuters who enjoy a lavish, stylish, and durable riding experience with a touch of speed. It boasts a wealth of high-tech and advanced specs that make it the smartest way to get around in town.
