Normally, Light E-Bikes are tested by editors who, due to their professional activity, have excellent fitness and bike handling skills. However, the question arises as to whether these testers can really adequately assess the weaknesses and strengths of the bikes.
Wouldn't it be better to involve someone with a handicap as a tester, since this person is more likely to correspond to the target group? If this is the case, you might be wondering why I should be particularly suitable for this.
Due to the sequelae of a serious accident, I now have the advantage of knowing both worlds. In the past, I considered E-Bikes to be inappropriate for me – only suitable for lazy people or seniors. As an enthusiastic cyclist, I could not imagine switching to a moped-like vehicle. But how quickly views can change...
First Impression
Wow! The first thing that catches the eye with the Scott Solace Road eRide 10 is its sleek design, in addition to its impressive paint job. All cables and wiring run internally, and both the frame and wheels are aerodynamically optimized. At first, I thought there must be a mistake - the bike does not look like an e-bike at first glance. The compact motor in the bottom bracket area is barely visible, and only the display on the top tube gives away its electric nature. Even the included Range Extender can easily be mistaken for a water bottle when mounted.
Go big or go home! Scott uses the particularly lightweight HMX carbon fibers for the frame and fork and has screwed on only the best components to the bike. The centerpiece is the HPR50 motor from TQ, which is completely newly developed specifically for Light E-Bikes. In addition, there is an electronic Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 groupset, which, however, has to make do with a carbon crankset and chainrings from FSA due to the drive concept. The ZIPP 303 Firecrest Disc wheels are equipped with Schwalbe Pro One Evo Super Race TL 38 mm tires, and the whole package is rounded off with carbon components from Syncros.
WOW
Chris' First ImpressionThe Frame
At this point, it should be mentioned that Scott's latest creation is also available in a potent gravel bike variant (Solace Gravel eRide 10). Both versions have the same frame, with the main difference lying in the technical specifications: the road version comes, as mentioned above, with a Shimano 2x drive, a standard handlebar profile, and 38C slicks, while the gravel model features a Sram 1x drive, flared handlebars, and 50C gravel tires.
Furthermore, the road/gravel frame is said to have stiffness values similar to Scott's gravel racer, the Addict Gravel, even though the bottom bracket area had to be completely redesigned - practically open - to accommodate the drive unit. The compactness of the TQ motor and the minimalistic mounting points for the drive unit and battery played an important role here.
The Motor
The lightweight drive of the Scott Solace eRide, weighing only 3.6 kg, consists of the patented Harmonic Pin Ring Motor with 50 Nm and up to 300 W and could be completely housed in the bottom bracket. The battery integrated into the frame has a capacity of 360 Wh and can be extended by 160 Wh with a Range Extender if necessary. This is attached in place of the bottle holder with a specially developed clip mechanism in no time. The LED display recessed into the top tube bundles all essential information about battery status, torque and wattage, or range and has a button for switching on and off as well as for changing the support modes.
The three support levels of the motor can be individually adjusted via app in three parameters each, furthermore, the smartphone extension allows to configure the display. In addition, the Solace is equipped with an additional socket, which is discreetly hidden in the top tube and attached to the display. Through this, other devices such as lights, drives, etc. can be connected and powered by the internal battery of the Solace.
The Equipment
The Scott Solace Road eRide 10 comes with Shimano's electronic Dura Ace Di2 groupset and high-quality Zipp 303 wheels. The E-Allroad bike, priced at 11,999 Euros, also includes a 160 Wh range extender as standard. In terms of equipment, the bike weighs an honest 11.95 kg without the range extender, but with both bottle holders included.
There’s really nothing more to write about the performance of the Shimano Dura Ace Di2. It has been the reference in all aspects for years. The interplay with the FSA crankset, which is installed due to the design concept, also works excellently.
The 40 mm high Zipp 303 Firecrest Hookless wheels have a rim width of 30 mm externally and 25 mm internal bead width and are suitable for both road and gravel use. And the mounted Schwalbe Pro One Evo Super Race tires in 38 mm also perfectly match the character of the bike.
On the other hand, the Syncros Creston IC SL handlebar-stem combination is easy to grip but not particularly comfortable. The same applies to the rear and the seat post.
The whole package is complemented by the compact Tatze McFly pedals with their large contact area and crisp clipping in and out, which I kindly received from Tatze before the start of the review.
Tech Specs
Frame | Solace eRIDE Disc HMX Endurance Geo, incl. Range Extender | Fork | Solace eRIDE HMX Flatmount Disc, 1 1/4"-1 1/2" Eccentric Carbon steerer |
Motor | TQ HPR50, 50 Nm max., EU: 25 km/h | Charger | TQ 100-240V-4A |
Battery | TQ Internal 360 Wh + xTra Power Bottle Cage Battery 160Wh | Display | TQ HPR Bluetooth, ANT+, Dedicated Smartphone app / DI2 |
Rear Derailleur | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 RD-R9250, 2x12 | Front Derailleur | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 FD-R9250 |
Shift Lever | Shimano Dura-Ace ST-R9270 2x12 | Crankset | FSA eBike Carbon 50-34 24 speed |
Chain | Shimano Dura-Ace CN-M9100-12 | Cassette | Shimano Dura Ace CS-R9200-12 11-34 |
Brakes | Shimano BR-R9270 Hyd.Disc | Discs | Shimano RT-CL800 160 mm |
Handlebar | Syncros Creston iC SL Carbon | Seatpost | Syncros Duncan SL Aero |
Saddle | Syncros Belcarra Regular 1.0 | Headset | Acros AIF-1135 |
Wheelset | Zipp 303 Firecrest Carbon TLR, 24 spokes front/rear, Syncros Axle w/Removable Lever | Tires | Schwalbe PRO ONE EVO Super Race, TL-Easy, Fold 700x38C |
Weight | 11.95 kg* (Manufacturer's specification: 11.77 kg) | Price | 11,999 Euro |
* 11.95 kg weighed incl. two bottle holders, with TLR config, without pedals
Optional Accessories
Mudguard sets are available for both the Solace road bike and the gravel bike from Syncros. The Solace eRide can be equipped with a light, and the Syncros bike stand also fits. Thanks to the previously mentioned Smart Box in the top tube, compatible Syncros lighting systems can be connected directly to the main battery.
The Geometry
The geometry of the Solace* closely resembles that of the Addict Gravel, so it is - typically Scott - on the sporty side. The slightly longer chainstay ensures high running smoothness and the higher bottom bracket guarantees sufficient ground clearance off-road. Despite the additional weight, the Solace eRide provides the rider with a calm and controlled riding experience.
Geometry
XS/49 | S/52 | M/54 | L/56 | XL/58 | |
Head angle (°) | 69.5° | 70.0° | 71.0° | 71.0° | 71.0° |
Head tube length (mm) | 85.0 | 110.0 | 128.0 | 154.0 | 175.0 |
Top tube length (mm) | 518.0 | 534.2 | 554.5 | 578.4 | 592.5 |
Standover height (mm) | 759.0 | 785.0 | 803.0 | 824.0 | 841.0 |
BB Offset (mm) | 76.0 | 76.0 | 76.0 | 76.0 | 76.0 |
BB Height (mm) | 283.0 | 283.0 | 283.0 | 283.0 | 283.0 |
Wheelbase (mm) | 1,021.5 | 1,030.1 | 1,036.8 | 1,056.2 | 1,071.1 |
BB Center – Top of seat tube (mm) | 477.0 | 507.0 | 527.0 | 547.0 | 567.0 |
Seat angle (°) | 74.5° | 74.0° | 73.5° | 73.0° | 73.0° |
Chainstay length (mm) | 435.0 | 435.0 | 435.0 | 435.0 | 435.0 |
Reach (mm) | 374.0 | 378.0 | 387.0 | 398.0 | 406.0 |
Stack (mm) | 519.3 | 544.7 | 565.6 | 590.2 | 610.0 |
Stem length (mm) | 90.0 | 100.0 | 110.0 | 110.0 | 120.0 |
Trail (mm) | 80.8 | 77.5 | 70.7 | 70.7 | 70.7 |
* Geometrically, the only deviation from the Addict Gravel lies in the chainstays being one centimeter longer, which is intended to bring even more stability to the terrain and guarantee the generous clearance for 50C tires. And in direct comparison to the Addict eRide, the Solace has a slacker head tube and a longer wheelbase.
The Range Extender
All Solace models are prepared for the use of an additional 160-Wh range extender, which can be swapped for one of the two bottle holders without tools using a quick-release mounting system developed by Scott.
The Reviewer
Chriz, a true Upper Styrian, bought himself a racing bike with his first apprentice salary back in the day and has since succumbed to the cycling virus. In a serious cycling accident caused by someone else's fault in 2022, he suffered an incomplete spinal cord injury (paresis). In such cases, the nerves are severely damaged but not completely severed; muscle strength and sensation are partially retained. Studies indicate a probability between 20 and 75 percent that the affected individuals will at least regain the basic ability to walk. But that was not enough for our Chriz - he trained hard to get back in the saddle and push the pedals again. Voilà, his effort should be rewarded.
Chriz: "I am grateful that Scott and Bikeboard are offering me this great opportunity. It will be exciting to find out over the summer where my limits and those of the bike lie - but also, for whom the bike is particularly suitable and how it performs on and off the road."
Welcome to the team, Chriz!
Riding Impressions
The focus of Light E-Bikes is on efficiency, riding dynamics, and performance. Due to their lower total weight through lighter and smaller drive systems, they are closer to conventional road bikes or gravel bikes, inviting more active cycling.
The TQ motor of the Scott supports one with up to 300 watts, as prescribed for e-bikes but only up to 25 km/h. At riding speeds above that, one has to provide the propulsion themselves. And with a road bike, depending on the topography, this is quite often the case.
On flat terrain, the e-road bike rolls very well thanks to the aero-optimized shape of the frame and the wheels, and speeds around and over 30 km/h are no problem. However, on slightly uphill routes, one quickly falls back into the support range because the extra weight of the bike becomes noticeable. Here, one is at a disadvantage compared to normal bikes and quickly loses touch with the group or training partner if they do not take this into account. In strong headwinds or steeper terrain, however, the tables are turned, and one is a welcome guest at the front of the gruppetto.
On flat terrain, speeds of around and over 30 km/h are no problem.
Efficiency, riding dynamics, and performance of the Solace eRide3 Support Levels
The transition between assistance and muscle power is so seamless that you don't notice it. And the noise level of the motor is so low that you actually only notice it on inclines.
The three support levels of the TQ System are controlled via a button on the top tube display. And here we are already at the biggest weakness of the Scott Solace eRide. Because on one hand, you have to take one hand off the handlebars to switch, which could be problematic off-road, on winding roads, or in traffic. On the other hand, the three support modes can only be switched sequentially in one direction. The latter means that after stage 3, you have to completely turn off the motor for a brief moment to get back to stage 1. Anticipatory shifting is an advantage here, otherwise, there is a risk of suddenly being left without motor assistance on steep inclines.
The Mahle system, which is installed in the Scott Addict eRide, proves that this can be done much better. With the help of two satellite switches, one can switch between the support modes as desired - while both hands firmly grip the handlebars.
Each of the three levels can be individually adjusted via an app (between 1-300 watts) to perfectly suit one's personal handicap or preference. This is also very helpful for training control, as the support can be optimized according to the ideal heart rate, or one does not arrive at work completely sweaty after a brisk commuter ride.
In addition to controlling the motor, the display also provides useful information such as battery status, range, and wattage. However, the latter should be taken with caution, as they are more estimated than realistic values.
What about the range - can the small 360 Wh battery manage extended road bike tours? The less I use the support, the further I can go, clearly. For sporty riders, even 100 kilometers with over 1,000 meters of elevation is no problem. It takes just about 3.5 hours to fully recharge the battery.
If more energy is needed, it is possible to mount the 160 Wh Range Extender instead of the second bottle holder. When connected, the energy of the Range Extender is used first and then that of the battery. When charging, it is the other way around.
Handling
Before the first ride, I was skeptical about the specially made, extra-wide version of the Schwalbe One Evo Super Race tire. 38 millimeters on a road bike – uh, e-road bike, seriously?
My worries were unfounded, as the tires roll quite swiftly and, thanks to the tubeless setup and lower tire pressure, they also provide good comfort on poor roads. The clever choice of tires makes the Scott a true all-rounder. Thus, the rides are not limited to asphalt alone, no, you can also move quickly on gravel roads. And so, light gravel sections soon became a fixed part of my tours.
The bike received a high level of stability through the slightly longer chainstays, the longer wheelbase, and the slacker head angle (compared to the Addict eRide) and conveys a calm and controlled riding feeling to the rider (despite its extra weight).
The wide Synchros handlebar is easy to grip and allows precise steering through the curves. And the sporty, yet relaxed riding position is also suitable for long hours in the saddle.
Unfortunately, the comfort of the frame and fork – depending on the tire width – tends to be on the harsher side.
The generous frame construction of the Solace eRide allows - by mounting tires up to 50 mm wide - an effortless transformation into a gravel bike. In my case, the Continental Terra Speed tires in 40 mm width proved to be the perfect choice, as they shine both on the road with an acceptable rolling resistance and off-road with sufficient grip. For pure road riding, however, I would prefer the 34 mm version of the Schwalbe One tire, as they roll noticeably better and significantly increase overall performance.
The 50-34 gearing at the front and the 11-34 gearing at the back on the Scott Solace eRide cover the bike's entire range of use very well. The electronic Dura Ace shifting system works perfectly with the FSA carbon crankset, which is installed due to its construction. The braking power of the well-modulated disc brakes with 160mm rotors is more than sufficient and ensures excellent deceleration.
Unfortunately, not everything went smoothly. Just about halfway through the long-term review, the motor experienced sudden dropouts at high ambient temperatures. Scott advised me to perform a software update. Unfortunately, this cannot be done by oneself via an app, but one has to take the bike to the dealer. Friesis Bikery in Gleisdorf did it promptly without an appointment and on top of that, free of charge. Thumbs up for this excellent customer service!
Nevertheless, the problem occurred again from time to time, albeit only in great heat. We will definitely stay on top of this issue!
Long-Term Test Part II: 33+ Gravel Styria
How does the Scott Solace eRide 10 actually perform under race conditions? This is a question that the racer in me has often asked since the beginning of the test. But how and where is the best place to test it? Apart from the E-Giro, I can't think of any e-bike races on the road. And participating in a regular bike marathon with a lightweight e-bike still feels a bit odd to me.
That's why the 33+ Gravelstyria event was just right for me. It's a great gravel event in Southeast Styria. The course offers variety with a significant proportion of gravel sections and only a few kilometers on public roads. In addition, there are two excellent refreshment stations. An event that makes every gravel heart beat faster.
Even though this isn't about a race in the traditional sense, we know that well-trained cyclists are quite ambitious during such rides. And since I had the chance to participate in this event shortly before my accident, it provided a very good comparison. Will I be able to ride as fast as before my accident? And how does the Solace perform in a group with other motivated cyclists?
Due to the course layout of 105 kilometers with 1,400 meters of elevation gain, an adjustment of my setup was necessary. The Range Extender included with the Scott Solace eRide 10 was quickly mounted with a click and increased the range by 50%. As a result, I was not forced to pay attention to the power consumption during the ride, and could draw on full power if needed. The standard Schwalbe road tires were replaced by 40 mm gravel tires from Continental.
At the start, the Scott blended in unobtrusively with the other bikes. Except for those who knew me and the bike, no one was aware that a motorized bike was also participating in the event. If someone noticed the bike, it was only because of its really successful paint job. Also, in operation, nothing betrayed its electrified nature, as the motor ran so quietly.
It probably goes without saying that thanks to the powerful TQ HPR50 motor, one belongs to the strongest of the group on the climbs. Even technically demanding uphill segments pose no challenge thanks to the drive system. Although the Scott has a bit of extra weight compared to the other bikes due to the drive system, it can be steered precisely through corners. This allowed me to easily keep up with the others on the descents. Only in sections with lots of roots and rocks did the bike feel a bit stubborn due to the high frame stiffness, and the seating comfort left something to be desired. Here it lacks a bit of lightness compared to normal gravel bikes. However, experienced riders should be able to handle it well.
If you're still at the front during the climbs, you'll quickly be passed back through the pack on flat terrain where there's a lot of pressure on the pedals in the group. Without motor assistance and with a physical performance deficit, it's laborious to keep up; then the danger of having to let go is particularly high. In summary, this means that you are at an advantage with the Light E-Bike on the climbs, but you have to work hard on the technical descents and on flat terrain to keep up. I would like to add that I tried to use the battery as sparingly as possible and still had over 43% remaining capacity at the finish.
When comparing the values from both of my participations, interesting findings emerge. According to Strava, I was faster this year with an average speed of 24 km/h, an increase of 0.5 km/h from before. The average heart rate is nearly identical at 143 compared to 146, as is the peak heart rate at 171 versus 174. Interestingly, with the e-bike, I only burned about 40 calories less than with the regular bike, at 3855.
My race review: The Scott is certainly suitable for giving it a good thrashing on the track now and then, but its real strength clearly lies in the realm of endurance sports.
The Finale
Over the last 6 months, I had the privilege of putting the Scott Solace eRide 10 through its paces for more than 3,000 kilometers. I didn't expect that saying goodbye would be so hard. Scott has done a lot right with this bike - it offers an extremely sporty riding experience, has plenty of power or range when needed, and just looks great.
It was a true pleasure to swing into the saddle every time. Nevertheless, there are two points of criticism: Firstly, I find it a pity that the motor cannot be controlled from the handlebars, and secondly, the bike is quite uncomfortable in the saddle area. A "comfort" seat post like the one Scott uses on the Foil would also be desirable for the Solace. In my opinion, that would also better suit its alignment as an endurance bike.
I was positively surprised that the ZIPP wheels, whose bearings have not always had the best reputation in the past, ran absolutely flawlessly - the 303 Firecrest functioned just as well after a relentless 3,000 kilometers as on the first day. Additionally, I find the TQ app very successful, which allows you to adjust the motor control. It is foolproof programmed and intuitive to use, so you can easily adapt the bike to personal needs or conditions while riding.
Just before the end of the review, we also found out the reason for the drive system failing in high heat: The display was to blame. TQ organized the exchange extremely customer-friendly and free of charge at the nearest dealer.
The top model's package includes a Range Extender. This increases the battery capacity by 50% if needed. Honestly, I never needed it though. Even with the software's basic settings, 100 km and 1,000 meters of elevation gain were easily achievable. That was more than enough for daily training, and I think it should also be sufficient for the bike's target group. By mounting it, you lose the second bottle holder, which should be taken into account especially when planning tours in the peak of summer.
Anyone who decides to buy a Scott Solace eRide 10 essentially gets three bikes in one. Whether you use it as a road bike, endurance, or gravel bike, it's incredibly fun and enriches your life. Who wouldn't want that? For me, a convincing argument to buy!
Conclusion
Solace Road eRide 10 | |
---|---|
Model Year: | 2023 |
Review Duration: | 4 Months |
Price: | € 11,999 RRP |
+ | Natural Riding Feel |
+ | Versatility |
+ | Appearance |
+ | Range |
+ | Low Charging Time |
o | TQ firmware not updatable via app |
o | Water collects in the charging port |
- | High Price |
- | Sequential mode switching with only one button |
BB-Verdict: | The Swiss Army Knife among light electric road bikes |
The Scott Solace eRide clearly appeals to those e-bikers who prefer a particularly sporty riding style. It offers a great opportunity both for older individuals or those with impairments who lack the stamina for extended tours, as well as for athletes who want to compensate for performance differences with the support of the motor in order to keep up with partners or friends on joint training rides.
If Scott manages to improve the motor control, there are actually no more counterarguments against buying this sporty, versatile all-round light e-bike.
For pure road riders, the cheaper Scott Addict eRide with Mahle motor might be an interesting alternative.
The Scott Solace eRide 10 presents itself as the perfect all-round e-bike, feeling equally at home on the road and off-road. It is, in a way, the Swiss Army Knife among light electric road bikes.