Motorcycles and bicycles go hand in hand for many riders. Keen to leverage its existing powersport audience and grow into other fun-filled outdoor segments, Yamaha Bicycles has updated its dual sport–like pedal-assist bicycle entry with its 2022 Wabash RT gravel bike ($4,099). The kickstand-equipped CrossCore RC urban all-arounder ($3,099) also receives some improvements. Both cycles are categorized as Class 3 electric bikes limited to 28 mph with pedal assist.
Editor’s note: We’ve reported on the technical improvements of these ebikes in the 2022 Yamaha Wabash RT Electric Bicycle First Look and 2022 Yamaha CrossCore RC Electric Bicycle First Look articles.
Wabash RT
The Wabash RT is designed for pedal bikers who want a road-style bicycle they can ride on road as well as off. Enter the 700c-wheel-equipped Wabash RT, powered by Yamaha’s proprietary PW generation electric motor. Although Yamaha Bicycles is new in the pedal-assist bicycle game here in the United States, the brand has been manufacturing these propulsion systems since the early ‘90s.
The Wabash RT is notable because it allows riders to experience the thrills and excitement of cycling in a remarkably easy-to-use package. Its 500-watt battery is built into the lower frame tube and charges via a household-style three-prong 120-volt power adapter, taking four hours to top off completely. Once charged to max, this pedal-assist bicycle offers a range of up to 100 miles in its lowest Eco power setting.
An easy-to-use LCD-style display fixed to the handlebar shows speed and other trip metrics and allows the rider to choose between four power modes. There’s also an automatic power setting which selects the ideal power setting after factoring in cadence (think engine rpm), road incline, and energy demand based on the effort exerted through the crank. The RT shifts gears smoothly through Shimano drivetrain components using a fixed center sprocket and a 11-speed rear gear.
Ergonomics-wise, the Wabash feels similar to a road-style cycle due to its more aggressive lowered handlebar with light outward flaring for comfort. This allows miles to melt away with ease.
Powerful hydraulic disc brakes keep speed in check and wide, meaty (for a road bike) Maxxis tires ensure added stability and comfort when riding over rough pavement. We were surprised by the grip level these Maxxis’ offer, even in sand. A mechanically actuated dropper post–type saddle (offering more than 1.5 inches of travel) adds versatility and makes it easier to ride over uneven terrain, or for mounting and dismounting. It also integrates a clever suspension system, so when hitting larger jolts and jumps, it gives a bit of cushion.
If you’re the type of person who wants to experience the thrill of road bike cycling but are maybe not in the best physical fitness, you could do really well with this bike. Despite a hefty 46.7-pound weight (size large), having the motor beneath you lets the rider go farther at a higher rate of speed, though of course the human part of the drivetrain must still burn some energy while contributing muscle power through the pedals. And that’s neat; the rider gets the best of both worlds, a little bit of exercise plus the ability to go farther and see more.
CrossCore RC
Yamaha’s CrossCore RC is a general-purpose pedal-assist bicycle designed for casual bicyclists who want to ride to school, work, the gym, the beach, everywhere. It’s also ideal for riding for pure pleasure and would be ideal for exploring town.
Like the Wabash, it’s powered by Yamaha’s proprietary PW-series electric motor. This motor is good for almost 58 pound-feet of torque—more than some gasoline-powered motorcycles. An identically sized 500-watt battery is built into the lower frame rail. The CrossCore RC weighs 52.6 pounds (in size large).
The battery is charged with Yamaha’s proprietary charge pack, which works with any household adapter. The CrossCore has a range of just over 100 miles in its lowest power setting. A really slick LCD control panel keeps tabs on speed, mileage, and lets the rider adjust power mode settings, and there’s an LED headlamp for illuminating the road after dark. Like the Wabash RT, an automatic power setting takes the guesswork out of things automatically selecting the optimum power mode based on how much load you’re putting through the pedals, terrain incline, and vehicle speed. The CrossCore RC gets a nine-speed rear derailleur plus two front chainrings for 18 speeds total.
The CrossCore employs more relaxed ergonomics with a flat, upright club-style handlebar. Seat height can be easily adjusted up or down, but it doesn’t include a dropper post setup like the Wabash RT. It does, however, offer front suspension with 2.5 inches of travel.
Ideally, it would be nice to have two of these CrossCores in the garage so a friend can tag along during rides; they wouldn’t even have to be in optimum pedaling shape to spend a few hours tooling around with you.
Both of these pedal-assist bicycles are available in three frame sizes (small, medium, large) and come with a three-year warranty on the frame, motor, and battery.
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com