KTM Macina Gravelator SX 20 in Review

No constant power from the down tube, no overkill on forest roads, but targeted assistance when it matters. KTM has understood and implemented this approach. With the Macina Gravelator SX 20, the manufacturer from Mattighofen presents an e-gravel bike that doesn’t show off but rather delivers confidently. Not a disguised trekking bike, not a camouflaged SUV with knobby tires, but a sports device for people who would also ride without a motor – but know that it’s easier or goes farther with a motor.

Bosch is primarily known for powerful, robust motors. For example, the Performance Line CX (Gen 5) with its impressive torque and uncompromising thrust (now upgradeable via app to 100 Nm and 750 watts) is indispensable in the e-MTB segment. In contrast, the Performance Line SX feels like the athletic, restrained sibling: lighter, with less maximum power, but noticeably more dynamic and with finer controllability.

The technical design of the SX is similar to that of the CX, but the housing is made of magnesium, and a third reduction stage has been omitted to further reduce size and weight. In addition to reducing the external width of the motor housing, the Q-factor has also been reduced from 178 mm to 160 mm, which provides a more natural riding feel. Due to the modified primary transmission, however, the efficiency range lies in a higher cadence band, meaning the rider has to pedal significantly faster to fully utilize the motor’s power.

Nevertheless, 55 Nm of torque and up to 600 W peak power are a clear statement in the light e-bike segment. Especially when you consider that a software update will make even 60 Nm possible from autumn onwards. This not only provides noticeably stronger acceleration but also increases the rider's own performance by up to four times.

Particularly clever: The full motor power is not rigidly applied but dynamically released – depending on the selected riding mode and how much effort the rider puts in. While the Eco mode is designed for maximum efficiency and range, Tour+ provides automatically dosed support based on pedal pressure. In the sportiest mode, Sprint, the support depends directly on the cadence and is particularly suitable for quick starts and intense gravel riding with high cadence.

For individual customization and maximum comfort, the Gravelator also offers the complete system consisting of the Bosch Smart System, eBike Flow App, Mini Remote, System Controller, and optional Range Extender.

The Bosch SX only plays to its strengths if you play along. The system is clearly tuned to cadence and personal effort. Anyone who thinks they can fly up a hill with a heavy gear at 50 revolutions per minute will be disappointed. However, those who choose the right gear and pedal at around 75 rpm will be rewarded with surprisingly powerful yet harmonious support.

On flat terrain, the system remains inconspicuous, operates quietly, and transitions smoothly. The 25-km/h limit does not act as a brake shoe – the transition to analog riding is smooth and almost imperceptible. On technical climbs or short power bursts on gravel ascents, you can see how helpful the progressive eMTB mode (Tour+) can be even on a gravel bike: The motor provides support, but never too aggressively. Cadence and torque are continuously analyzed, and the system rewards committed riding with maximum support.

Overall, the drivetrain operates very quietly. In off-road conditions, it is hardly noticeable in an unpleasant way, and on the road, not at all. Even at high cadences, the operating noise is drowned out by the wind and tire noise. Only when disengaged, a kind of whispering or whining can be heard, which can vary depending on the frame material, shape, and size.

The Gravelator SX 20 combines two qualities that are often mutually exclusive: stable smoothness at high speeds and pleasantly direct agility on terrain. The bike can be maneuvered precisely through curves, remains confidently on track during fast descents, and is always controllable even when standing on the pedals. Even on loose surfaces or in tight curve combinations, it provides a secure riding experience, thanks in no small part to the well-balanced weight distribution.

The low-positioned, sporty cockpit encourages an active riding style. Gripping the handlebars in the lower section allows for precise control of the front wheel over the trail, while a relaxed riding style in the upper grip position is also comfortably achievable. For longer distances, one might consider a more comfortable seat post. While the installed aluminum post reliably serves its purpose, it offers little in terms of noticeable flex properties; upgrading to a carbon seat post could add some extra comfort.

The Schwalbe G-One Bite tires in a 40-millimeter width also offer a great mix of traction, rolling performance, and versatility. For particularly rough terrain or simply for more cushioning, it’s easy to switch to tubeless and upgrade to 45-millimeter wide tires. The frame provides sufficient clearance for this. In the test, the standard setup proved to be balanced and durable overall - only on very rough surfaces does the narrow tire width reach its comfort limits.

The KTM Macina Gravelator SX 20 brings together what belongs together: A sporty, drive-happy Bosch motor that is light enough for ambitious gravel riders but powerful enough for real adventures, combined with a thoughtfully integrated, visually elegant aluminum frame concept with excellent components, clever connectivity, and full touring options at a great price.

The Bosch SX is not the lightest, not the loudest, not the most invisible, but probably the most balanced drive system in its class - and KTM gets the most out of it technically and visually. Those who don't want to miss out on electric tailwind while graveling will find the golden middle ground here.

KTM currently offers the Macina Gravelator in three equipment variants – cleverly graded: The SX 20 tested here forms the visually and technically convincing entry-level model at 3,999 euros. Above it is the SX 10 with slightly more premium components priced at 4,299 euros, while the top model SX Prime with a carbon frame, high-end components, and a price of 5,999 euros marks the pinnacle.

All three variants share the identical drive system, namely: Bosch Performance Line SX, CompactTube 400 battery, Smart System with Mini Remote and System Controller. Additionally, there are numerous mounting points for bottle cages, bags, Ortlieb luggage solutions, or original KTM luggage racks. Differences can be found in components such as drivetrain, wheels, cockpit, and frame material.