G1 EBOXX
QLF
From 8399.00€
EBOXX 2022
Lighter. More Stable. Better.
NICOLAI has completely revised the chassis for the 2022 EBOXX. For the elaborate frame construction, the manufacturer traditionally uses 7020-T6 aluminum, which has an approximately 30% higher tensile strength and an approximately 20% higher elastic limit compared to the 6061-T6 alloy commonly used in bicycle construction. The argument of sustainability in terms of recycling and the goal of a complete circular economy are also important arguments for the manufacturer. Production of the NICOLAI EBOXX series takes place entirely in the company’s own factory at its German site in Mehle, Lower Saxony.
A brand new feature for the EBOXX is a completely CNC-milled head tube, in which the internal cable ports are integrated. Compared to the turned and butted head tube of the previous model benefits significant weight savings and gains in stiffness and aesthetics. The down tube, an extruded multi-chamber profile with the battery opening underneath, has also received a redesign to accommodate the larger 750Wh battery. The previous extrusion is also updated with a lighter design. The rear end has also been redesigned: the ‘Hollow-Milled’ component is now used as the compression strut yoke, again combining weight savings with stiffness gains.
Hollow-Mill is a technology NICOLAI uses in the construction of highly stressed, complex and voluminous components to achieve maximum durability with minimum weight. Hollow-Milled parts are manufactured by NICOLAI on state-of-the-art 5-axis CNC machines and are hollow milled from the inside. During design, NICOLAI uses FEM software (Finite Element Method) to simulate the loads occurring in real-world use to optimize the shape (topology) of these components. Topology optimization makes critical stress areas of the design visible. These can be strengthened by adding material, while unnecessary material can be saved in low stress areas.
These redesigns of the 2022 EBOXX frame have resulted in a weight saving of over 500g compared with the previous model. This effectively compensates for the additional weight of the larger 750Wh BOSCH Smart System battery. When using the 625Wh battery on the EBOXX models with a 4th generation BOSCH Performance Line CX drive combined with the electronic ROHLOFF E14 shifting system, the total bike weight can be reduced by half a kilo.
The new frame has clearance for 203mm brake discs. NICOLAI has revised the rear for this purpose and designed new sliding dropouts for tensioning the Carbon Drive belt, whose integrated brake mount has been reinforced with a torque support to compensate for higher braking forces.
NICOLAI points out the outstanding durability and extreme load capacity of its EBOXX models by granting a 5-year warranty against material failure: frame breakage even for competitive use, under the toughest riding conditions and with a total weight limit of 130kg. NICOLAI further backs its frame up to 150kg, however, the suppliers of most components do not follow suit.
2022 EBOXX Models at a Glance
With the introduction of the new 5th generation BOSCH drive, the Performance Line CX Smart System, e-bike manufacturers like NICOLAI, who have relied on the electronically controlled ROHLOFF E14 hub gears until now, will be faced with an ultimatum because the 2022 BOSCH Smart System does not support the E14 software at this time. Choose between the latest BOSCH technology in combination with a mechanically controlled ROHLOFF hub – or the electronic E14 Speedhub with the compatible 4th Gen. Performance Line CX drive? NICOLAI replies with a clear: “Both and!”
The 2022 EBOXX is offered in four variants, each with the 5th Gen. BOSCH Performance Line CX Smart System drive installed and equipped either with a derailleur or a mechanically shifted ROHLOFF Speedhub. Two EBOXX variants, on the other hand, are equipped with the 4th Gen. BOSCH Performance Line CX drive and a compatible electric E14 Speedhub.
G1 EBOXX MR14
GT1 EBOXX MR14
G1 EBOXX E14
GT1 EBOXX E14
G1 EBOXX QLF
GT1 EBOXX QLF
The suffix in the model name indicates which drivetrain is used. E14 stands for the electronically switched ROHLOFF hub gears in combination with a 4th Gen. BOSCH drive. The EBOXX models with the addition MR14 are equipped with the mechanically shifted ROHLOFF 14 Speedhub. The addition QLF stands for the variants with derailleur gears. The MR14 and QLF models are offered by NICOLAI with the 5th Gen.BOSCH drive.
The beginning of the model designation G1 or GT1 indicates the geometry and the focus of use. G1 stands for the radical Geolution geometry on which the human powered NICOLAI competition enduros are also based. GT1 stands for Geolution Tour, a more comfortable touring geometry. We will go into more detail about the different geometry concepts and their characteristics right after this overview.
The 4th generation BOSCH Performance Line CX drive and the 5th generation BOSCH Smart System drive use the same motor with the same performance parameters. The differences between the two systems are mainly in the periphery, i.e. the controls, the interfaces and the battery. We examine these aspects in detail below and present the new features of the Smart System.
G1 OR GT1
Geometry and the focus of use
G1 EBOXX – Geolution, Exclusive Enduro Competition Geometry. Geolution is a unique geometry concept developed by NICOLAI in cooperation with Chris Porter from the English brand GEOMETRON. Based on the idea that a longer wheelbase, a slacker steering angle and a steeper seat angle make the bike safer, faster, smoother and easier to climb. Climbing characteristics are improved because the steep seat angle and long front end position the rider centrally preventing front wheel lift on steep climbs.
The long wheelbase and a slack steering angle, on the other hand, allow for high downhill and cornering speeds and prevent an ‘over the handlebars’ feeling on steep downhills. The central seating position and center of gravity ensures optimum load distribution between front and rear wheels. This improves control in dynamic riding situations and overall handling.
GT1 – Geolution Tour, Enduro Geometry Tuned for Touring.
NICOLAI explicitly emphasizes that its Geolution models are perfectly suitable for beginners, but also takes into account that not everyone likes a sporty and forward riding position on the bike or wants to compete. The Geolution Tour geometry is precisely intended to appeal to this clientele. With a significantly longer head tube and a steeper steering angle, the geometry becomes more moderate and comfortable. The seated position becomes more upright, the bike reacts with more agility and is easier to handle. With the Geolution Tour concept NICOLAI wants to offer a universally usable bike that can climb well, masters every trail and has a strong downhill potential, but also on long tours, everyday use or as a commuter provides a comfortable position and relaxed rides.
BOSCH Performance Line CX
Smart System
The NICOLAI models G1 EBOXX MR14, GT1 EBOXX MR14, G1 EBOXX QLF and GT1 EBOXX QLF are equipped with the BOSCH Performance Line CX Smart System, which has been completely revised in its 5th generation. The base of this system was designed for future expansion and is formed by all the BOSCH modules installed on the NICOLAI EBOXX: The 5th Gen. Performance Line CX motor, a new Connect standard for charging socket and charger, the 750Wh battery, the new BOSCH LED remote control unit and a completely newly developed Kiox 300 display.
The performance parameters of the motor have not changed. With its 85Nm of torque, it remains the most powerful drive in the BOSCH line-up and supplements up to 340% in addition to human power. This provides strong torque in all riding situations and maximum power, especially at low cadence, which makes mastering technical passages and standing starts on steep sections noticeably easier. Now with 750Wh compared to 625Wh at the 4th Gen. Drive, this 20% gain in battery capacity increases the range accordingly.
For a longer range, the EBOXX models with the 4th Gen. BOSCH Performance Line drive a secondary 625Wh battery which can be carried with NICOLAI’s optional custom quick mount on the top tube. For the 5th Gen. BOSCH models, however, this option does not exist due to the longer 750Wh battery.
The 2022 BOSCH Performance Line CX Smart System establishes a new standard with its components designed for modularity and renounces downward compatibility. Smaller batteries, previous chargers or the Niox display can no longer be used here. However, an expanded range of BOSCH components can be expected in the near future.
KIOX OR NYON
ON-BORD COMPUTER
The BOSCH Kiox on-board computer serves as the control center for the E-BOXX models. For 2021, the unit has been revised once again and the ergonomics improved. The scratch-resistant, large color display is optimally readable in all lighting conditions thanks to adaptive brightness control. In addition to the standard functions such as riding mode display, speed, battery charge, distance and range, the gear engaged at any given time is also displayed in combination with the Rohloff E14 gearshift.
Other functions of the BOSCH Kiox appeal especially to sports riders: The rider’s power output in watts can be displayed, as can the heart rate when a cardio belt is used. Control of the most important functions, such as riding mode selection, changing menu items and activating a push assist, is done via the remote control on the left handlebar grip.
The Kiox computer is locked in place with a magnetic mount that ensures a secure hold in all riding situations while allowing lightning-fast installation and removal. In the event of a fall, the mount is designed to allow the display to pop out, significantly reducing the risk of damage. In addition to the standard mount for the handlebar, we also offer an optional mount on the top tube.
For all EBOXX models, we also offer the option of choosing the BOSCH Nyon as the control center, which, in addition to the features of the Kiox, has a trail-compatible navigation system based on OpenStreetMap and a variety of extra functions, for example, the consideration of altitude profiles in the range calculation. The Nyon display also has a touchscreen, and the map can be displayed in either 2D or 3D.
BOSCH LED-Remote
Control without display
With the BOSCH LED Remote, the NICOLAI EBOXX receives a completely new control unit for the BOSCH Smart System. Ensuring intuitive operation and providing haptic feedback through detent buttons and visual feedback through LED light bars to display the selected riding mode.
In addition to the familiar Eco, eMTB and Turbo modes, there is now a new mode with Tour+. Tour+ does not provide the usual percentage of power assistance, but instead adapts the degree of motor assistance dependent upon the pedaling force applied. Pedal hard, you get extra motor power – pedal gently, on the other hand, the motor provides little support.
The 32-bit processor of the BOSCH Smart System processes a huge number of sensor signals measured over 1000 times per second, ensuring optimum performance characteristics in the selected riding mode. In eMTB mode, for example, mountain bikers can effortlessly climb off-road steps or obstacles without full crank rotation and the risk of pedal strikes. A short crank on pedals is enough, the BOSCH software recognizes this impulse and powers the rear wheel.
The improved ergonomics of the new BOSCH LED remote ensures easy and safe operation. Both rotatable and adjustable independently of the position of the mounting clamp in the longitudinal direction, the position can be optimized and allows easy access to the brake lever and the remote lever of the dropper seatpost.
BOSCH Kiox 300 Display
A display for sporty eBikers
The 2022 Kiox 300 display is also a new development featuring a significantly larger, higher-resolution and higher-contrast display, along with a scratch-resistant coating and automatic adaptive brightness control making it easily readable in any light conditions. In addition to the standard functions such as riding mode display, speed, battery charge, distance and range, it offers numerous additional functions.
For example, the rider’s power can be displayed in watts, as can the heart rate if a cardio belt is used. The control of all functions such as riding mode selection, changing menu items or activating a push-assist is done via the LED remote control on the left handlebar grip. The Kiox 300 display does away completely with buttons, and the hands remain safely on the handlebar grips at all times.
Purists and fans of a reduced, uncluttered cockpit will be pleased to know that the new BOSCH system can now be used completely without a display, as all control and operating functions, as well as the display of the selected riding modes and the battery charging status, are integrated into the BOSCH LED remote control unit via light elements.
The Kiox 300 display is locked in place with a click-mount that ensures a secure hold in all riding situations while allowing lightning-fast installation and removal. A new mounting arm provides a more protected display position between the stem and handlebars, while allowing mounting at different points on the handlebars. In the event of a fall, the mount is designed to allow the display to pop out, significantly reducing the risk of damage. In addition to the standard mount for the handlebar, NICOLAI also offers an optional dedicated mount on the top tube directly behind the head tube.
BOSCH eBike Flow App
Always informed and oriented
The new BOSCH eBike Flow app for smartphones communicates with the BOSCH on-board system via Bluetooth. It serves as a route planner, navigation system, data logger and control center. The current charge status of the bike or inspection intervals can be viewed at any time.
Support levels for Eco, Tour and Turbo can be adjusted on the 2022 BOSCH Smart System with the eBike Flow app by individually regulating the parameters dynamics, maximum speed and maximum torque in each case. Software updates for the BOSCH Smart Systems can be conveniently downloaded and installed via the app from home or on the go, as can new applications and extensions. The eBike Flow app can also exchange data with external apps such as APPLE Health.
SYSTEM NETWORKING
As a BOSCH partner, we have been working closely with the world’s leading developer of e-bike drives for many years and are very familiar with their technology. That is why we do not speak of installing the BOSCH drive but of integration. This means taking into account a wide range of technical aspects concerning the drive itself, its secondary characteristics and the entire periphery.
One decisive aspect, for example, is the operating temperature of the motor. Sufficient air cooling is required to prevent the drive from overheating under adverse conditions. At the same time, however, it should be as well protected as possible from dirt, stone chipping, when touching down and from damage caused by falling. We solve this requirement by using a robust, forged aluminum baffle plate with an air duct on the underside of the motor and protect its flanks with plastic parts shaped so that the airstream can optimally flow against the motor and dissipate the heat.
Another example of the system networking of mountain bike and electric drive is the solution we found for integrating the BOSCH Power Tube battery into the down tube. The common standard for E-MTBs so far has been an open U-profile as down tube, into which the battery is inserted from above or below. However, unlike a closed tubular profile, a U-profile can only absorb low torsional forces, to which the down tube, as the most important load-bearing element of the frame, is exposed to a high degree. We have therefore designed a special multi-chamber profile for the down tubes of our E-Boxx models, which has a significantly higher torsional stiffness than an open profile, despite a battery bay on the underside.
CONTROL AND SENSOR TECHNOLOGY
FOR A SENSITIVE RESPONSE
BOSCH has also improved its sensor technology and software to achieve even more sensitive response and smoother power delivery. A 32-bit processor processes a large number of sensor signals, which are called up over 1000 times per second, for optimum power characteristics in the selected driving mode. In the new Extended Boost mode, for example, the rider can effortlessly climb off-road steps or obstacles without a full turn of the crank and the risk of pedaling. A short pedal impulse is enough, the BOSCH program recognizes the situation and pushes the rear wheel.
An occasional annoyance in the past was a malfunction of the BOSCH speed sensor. Until now, the sensor’s magnetic pulse generator was screwed to a spoke of the rear wheel at a narrowly defined distance and could twist if, for example, a stick got into the spokes. This led to complete failure of the drive. In the new EBOXX models, we are therefore now installing a new speed sensor, the encoder of which is screwed to the rear brake disc in a non-hazardous area.
QLF
EBOXX with Derailleur
The suffix QLF identifies the EBOXX models with derailleur gears. QLF, pronounced Külf, is the name of a forested mountain range in the Leinebergland, the home of NICOLAI. Crisscrossed with challenging single trails, the Külf is a popular biking spot and the preferred stomping ground when the NICOLAI crew swing themselves onto the saddle.
The EBOXX QLF models are the fastest and lightest NICOLAI e-mountain bikes ever and the first choice for all bikers who put sportiness, efficiency and speed first.
SUSPENSION ELEMENTS
In order to achieve the maximum potential of a suspension system, the choice of the right suspension elements is the decisive factor after the frame design. NICOLAI uses in its EBOXX models exclusively shocks and forks from the US market leader FOX and the exclusive Italian racing forge EXT. FOX has been the high-end MTB supplier from the beginning. As a technology leader, FOX repeatedly sets the benchmark with its products, against which the other brands must be measured.
Nicolai installs a FOX 38 Float suspension fork in the “Factory” top version in all EBOXX models. The FOX 38 has replaced the FOX 36 as the top enduro fork. It is even more torsionally stiff and robust, plus scores again thanks to the new Grip2 damping with improved adjustability, dynamics and more usable travel. The FOX 38 Float has also received approval for 230mm brake discs. NICOLAI offers the fork for all EBOXX bikes set with 160 mm travel.
EXT has been developing suspension for the highest motorsport classes since 1986. After successful collaborations with LOTUS in Formula 1 and Sebastien Loeb’s CITROEN WRC team, EXT dampers are currently ensuring the success of the HYUNDAI team in the World Rally Championship. Since 2014, EXT has also been building MTB suspension at the same high level. EXT dampers impress with features such as an extremely sensitive response, temperature stability and a progressive, hydraulic bottom-out that operates independently of the compression damping.
The EXT e-Storia steel spring damper installed in the NICOLAI EBOXX models is based on the outstanding Storia base model. It has now been revised and adapted specifically for the higher loads that occur on an eMTB. Adjustment range and oil flow have been increased, the dynamics have been optimized for improved smoothness and the response has been refined even further. Visually, the 2022 e-Storia damper differs from the previous model by its 90° rotated reservoir. The damper is installed by NICOLAI in the EBOXX series in the size 230 x 65mm and provides 160mm rear travel.
NICOLAI installs in all models only factory-modified custom shocks, whose ‘shim stacks’ (elements in the damper, which regulate the oil flow and resistance) are individually adapted to the requirement profile and the suspension characteristics of the respective NICOLAI bike.
COMPLETE BIKE EQUIPMENT
All EBOXX models are available either as a frame kit or complete bike with various features and options. For example, you can also choose ‘SUV’ tires, if the bike is to be used mainly for touring on paved roads but also occasionally off them. The SCHWALBE Jonny Watts tires have been developed specifically for this purpose. On hard surfaces they roll particularly easily and quietly, but also still offer very good grip when it goes off-road.
For those who want to expand the range of use of their EBOXX bike, for example, to use it for commuting, as an adventure bike or daily ride, NICOLAI offers an “Explorer Kit”, which consists of mudguards, luggage rack and lighting system. This makes the bike more suitable for everyday use and complies with the requirements of the StVZO. The Explorer Kit is optimally adapted for use on NICOLAI EBOXX bikes and consists of high-quality, perfectly fitting add-on parts. It is available as a complete set or in the form of individual components and can be assembled in advance or ordered for retrofitting.
Exclusively for EBOXX complete bikes with Rohloff gears and Explorer kit, there is also an S-pedelec option that allows motor assistance up to 45 km/h. This variant is subject to registration and therefore does not allow any deviation from the equipment listed in the vehicle registration document.
For a complete overview of all EBOXX variants and options, the current equipment lists are attached to this PM.
EXPLORER KIT
What started out as fun has become one of our best sellers. The Explorer Kit offers our valued Nicolai customers a variety of uses: An eMTB as a commuter bike? Why not! Just ride your favorite trail to work all week long. With storage space for a few purchases, lighting for one more extra lap on the hometrail and a lock so that your favorite machine is also safely waiting for you in front of the bakery. In the summer cycling through the Alps? No problem! We do not care about traditional conventions. The kit is available for all EBOXX 2020 models. It consists of SKS® mudguards, SUPERNOVA® lighting system, ABUS® security lock, PLETSCHER® side stand as well as a TUBUS® luggage rack and ORTLIEB® panniers. If you do not need everything, you can order many components individually.
5 Frame sizes
FLEXIBLE PRODUCTION
All NICOLAI models are offered in 5 frame sizes, from S to XXL. This means that customers with body sizes between 1.55 and 2.10 meters can be optimally served, a range that few other brands provide. Building a perfectly fitting frame means much more than just scaling its basic shape. We take various factors into account here with regard to body proportions and rider weights, for example adapted tube cross-sections and particularly low step-in and protrusion heights for S sizes or frame reinforcements that take into account the high weight and greater body strength of XXL frame riders. Production at our own site also allows us to customize our products specifically for people with handicaps or special needs.
WARRANTY AND SPARE PARTS SUPPLY
We provide a 5-year warranty on all frame models against breakage and material failure, even in racing use or jumps. The prerequisite is that the respective models are used within the scope of their designated purpose and have only been equipped with components for which an approval has been obtained. In addition, we guarantee the supply of spare parts for all models for a period of at least 10 years.
CRAFTSMANSHIP AND ENGINEERING
You can always recognize a NICOLAI by its weld seams.
A NICOLAI bike is easily recognized, even without the brand lettering, by its characteristic wide-scaled welds and the machined aesthetics of the milled parts. Nothing is sanded down or concealed. The industrial design language is not an end in itself. It traces the product’s development process, makes the logic of the design transparent and reveals its properties and functions. This not only creates trust in the product, in its quality and durability, but also ensures a high identification potential of our brand within a constantly growing fan community.
Welding is done by hand using the TIG method by specially trained welders with many years of experience. For each model and frame size a precise welding jig is built, the so-called frame gauge. In it, the CNC-cut tube sets with all turned and milled parts of a frame that are to be welded are precisely assembled and fixed. The frame components are first tack-welded with individual spot welds, welded at precisely specified points in a defined sequence and then, to minimize distortion and stresses, welded in several passes. The uniformly flat-shingled weld seams so characteristic of our brand are produced by a very slow welding speed. This results in deep fusion of the material and large-area dissipation of the loads and forces occurring in the frame.
CHASSIS AND KINEMATICS
In addition to the geometry and chassis of an MTB, a particular design focus is the suspended rear triangle, a decisive factor for fun and performance. NICOLAI wants to combine within its EBOXX models competitive performance, maximum trail fun and high pedaling efficiency, therefore constructing its rear triangles based on the proven, classic Horst Link design.
Horst Link is the name given to the pivot that sits at the end of the chainstay in front of the rear axle which counteracts the shortening of the wheelbase during compression. In this way, the rider’s movements are kinematically decoupled from the work of the suspension. Through years of racing experience and with the help of simulation software, NICOLAI has continuously optimized the Horst-Link technology. The system convinces riders with an excellent response, ideal progression and balanced anti-squat characteristic on downhills, trails and climbs alike.
Smooth-running, friction-free bearings are the prerequisite for a sensitive suspension response, but it must also be robust, durable and maintenance-free. NICOLAI uses quadruple sealed, full-race ball bearings, which are specially suited for the highly stressed pivoting movements occurring at the rear triangle and are manufactured to the highest industrial standards.
GEOLUTION
Geolution was developed by us in cooperation with Chris Porter from the English brand GEOMETRON. The concept is based on the idea that a longer wheelbase, a flatter steering angle and a steeper seat angle make the bike faster, smoother, easier to climb and safer. Climbing characteristics are improved because the steep seat angle and long front end position the rider to prevent the front wheel from rising on steep climbs.
The long wheelbase and a flat steering angle, on the other hand, allow for high downhill and cornering speeds and prevent a rollover feeling on steep downhill sections. The central seating position and the central center of gravity also ensure optimum load distribution between the front wheel and rear wheel. This increases the rider’s control in dynamic riding situations and improves the bike’s overall handling.
Geolution models are ridden with the shortest possible stem. This gives the rider a moderate, sporty riding position despite the long reach and allows optimum grip on the front wheel.
TOPOLOGY OPTIMIZATION
When designing turned and milled parts, we use FEM software (Finite Element Method), which can be used to simulate the loads that will occur in later use in order to determine the optimum shape (topology) of these components. Critical areas of the design become visible in this way and can be strengthened by adding material, whereas material and weight can be saved in areas subject to less stress.
MANUFACTURING QUALITY
Made in Germany
The manufacturing quality in itself is not yet an added value for a customer. The following two added values “longevity & precise riding characteristics” result from the manufacturing quality. Only if the welds are welded deep into the root and have no notches, a bike frame can withstand the impacts from the ground for many years without breaking. Precise driving characteristics are achieved when the rear wheel is precisely straight to the front wheel and even a layman notices that a crooked bike drives funny (but usually thinks that it is due to his driving skills).
Over the last 20 years, we have continued to optimize our production in order to constantly increase the production quality and, of course, to be able to implement ever more sophisticated designs. Of course, you can also outsource production, but then you have to plan for a certain amount of additional work in order to check the processes at others. We don’t do that, because we manufacture everything in-house. However, this trivial circumstance leads to the next reason:
Customization options
Since we don’t manufacture a NICOLAI bike until we have a customer order, it’s easy for us to implement different requests such as color, cable routing, or even special geometry. The possibilities and limits can be evaluated in a personal conversation with our sales and technical team. Oh yes, here we have another reason:
Personal consultation
The personal contact does not break even after the purchase of a NICOLAI bike. There are customers with whom we have maintained a friendship for 20 years.If after several years of hard use times a bearing needs to be changed or even a frame times a new coating should get, so you can simply call the guys from the service. Since we also manufacture all small parts on our machines, we can also reproduce all spare parts for older models if needed. In three words:
10 years of spare parts availability
We don’t run after any trend, but test everything ourselves and come to our own conclusions, and we have been doing this for 20 years. We have a wealth of experience. In my opinion, it borders on customer insult to announce a bike as a novelty one year and to discontinue the same model as a discontinued model the next year. A NICOLAI is timeless. Straight drawn round tubes paired with elaborate CNC milled parts and beautiful detail solutions result in a frame design that pleases even after many years. I call that:
Durability and value stability
Manufacturing products close to the customer is environmentally friendly. This applies to bread, milk, meat and every other product. And it applies above all to large objects. I don’t want to transport bulky bicycle frames, made almost entirely of air, in containers across the oceans. I also want to produce only the things that are needed. For more and more customers, this sustainability and the jobs here on site are a reason to choose a NICOLAI bike. Worn out formulated:
Sustainability
But back to the bikes. Every NICOLAI frame is developed in-house. The bike is designed, prototypes are built and tested until we are satisfied. Feedback from our team riders, our customers and our own experience as bikers is incorporated. Our goal is always the same: Best function, durability, reliability and to make the good better. And that’s the best reason after all:
The best bike!
Greetings
Kalle NICOLAI
WHY ALUMINIUM?
7020-T6
We remain true to our philosophy that 7020-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum is the superior material for mountain bike construction: all milling and cutting scraps, as well as discarded frames, are 100% recycled into the starting material, which can then be used to create new, high-quality bikes again.
Our goal is a complete circular economy. In addition to the sustainability argument, we can also point to tangible technical advantages with aluminum: Compared to 6061-T6 aluminum, which is commonly used in bicycle construction, 7020-T6 has greater strength. And where inadequate carbon frames can spontaneously break and collapse in the event of an overload, NICOLAI bikes are calculated and designed to deform in a defined area of the frame in the event of an overload, which significantly reduces the risk of serious falls and injuries. A NICOLAI aluminum frame is designed to withstand many years of severe competition conditions.
We use only 7020-T6 alloy aluminum (AlZn4.5Mg1) for frame construction – also known as German Aircraft Aluminum. Compared to the alloy 6061-T6 (AlMg1SiCu), which is usually used in bicycle construction, 7020-T6 has an approx. 30% higher tensile strength and an approx. 20% higher elastic limit. The widespread use of 6061-T6 is partly due to the fact that it can be processed at lower tooling costs and the frames can be straightened after welding with less technical effort.
SWINGARM MUTATOR
Der sogenannte Schwingen – MUTATOR ist auch ein von uns neu entwickeltes Bauteil an der Hinterradschwinge, welches viele Funktionen in nur einem einzigen Bauteil vereinigt:
Die Mutatoren sind in unterschiedlicher Länge verfügbar (33, 41 und 47mm). Auf diese Weise kann, nur durch den Tausch eines Mutators, die Länge der Schwinge gemäß unseres GEOLUTION Konzepts mit der Rahmenhöhe “mitwachsen”.
The so-called swingarm – MUTATOR is also a newly developed by us component on the rear swingarm, which combines many functions in only one component:
The mutators are available in different lengths (33, 41 and 47mm). In this way, only by exchanging a mutator, the length of the swingarm can “grow” with the frame height according to our GEOLUTION concept.
SECOND ACCU HOLDER
For double the range, a second battery can be carried, for which we offer an optional secure quick mount on the top tube. Unlike e-bikes with two battery slots, where both batteries usually always have to be inserted, customers here have the choice between double the range or a significantly lighter bike.
COLOR VARIETY
EXTRALOVE
With a NICOLAI frame you determine the design. Each Nicolai frame can be produced in color according to your preferences. Choose from the different frame colors, anodized colors for bell cranks and cable holders as well as frame decor to give the frame your individual touch.
Frame color:
Powder-coated, anodized or factory-raw – you decide how your frame looks. The powder coating is a melted plastic coating that is significantly more scratch and impact resistant than conventional
paint. Anodizing is an electrochemical process used to color the surface of aluminum. The oxide layer is even harder and more scratch-resistant than any powder coating. Additional weight is not applied during anodizing. However, the thin oxide layer can be penetrated more easily. Powder coating or lacquer can be used to hide blemishes in the surface. Scratches, grooves and tool marks can be filled and smoothed out like skin wrinkles with make-up. Anodizing hides nothing, revealing every flaw; the lighter the anodizing tone, the more obvious it is. On welded frames, anodizing therefore produces different shades of color. However, the current trend is towards frames that are delivered “factory-raw”. The frames are not coated after production, but go directly into assembly. You receive your frame without any coating (no clear coat either). Over time, an oxide layer/patina will form on the frame, causing the shine of the raw aluminum to fade somewhat. With the help of a polishing fleece, however, the old shine can be restored in a few simple steps. Besides the distinctive look, the “factory raw” look best reveals the manufacturing quality and technical charm of the frame.
Click here for the custom bike gallery!
Click here to go to the color swatches!
Decor:
For the decors you can choose between the standard Nicolai lettering or the NICOLAI BIG N logo. The decors are available in different colors and finishes – you decide.
Idler Assembly:
You have the choice of customizing your bell crank, cable retainers, and preload covers to your frame color. We offer a variety of anodized colors that you can use to finish your bike. Depending on the process, there may be color deviations between the components in light anodized colors due to material properties.
Rado
Rear Aligning Dropout
So that you hit on the trail also every track, we mount on all frames a positive sliding, replaceable dropout for track and camber adjustment. By the differently milled, right dropouts to adjust the camber, the rear must be readjusted after assembly only slightly. This relieves the material. The respective camber height is milled into the RADO with the numbers 0, 1, 2 or -1 and -2. After toe and camber have been set, the RADO is fixed at the factory with a pin. This makes it easy to reproduce the original setting when replacing it. Only in this way can we guarantee that NICOLAI products function precisely on the track.
TRADE AND DISTRIBUTION
NICOLAI frame kits and complete wheels are offered through direct sales and can either be ordered as a regular model variant or individually assembled with a variety of equipment options via an online configurator. Personal discussions and direct contact with our customers are our top priority. With a test bike selection, we regularly visit bike parks and trail centers, where interested parties can extensively test our bikes after prior registration and receive individual advice.
At the NICOLAI factory we have set up a showroom where all current models are on display. Here you can also make appointments for personal consultations or test rides and buy bikes directly or pick up pre-ordered bikes.
We have developed an elaborate reusable bike box for our mail-order shipping. In this box, the new NICOLAI bike arrives protected and guaranteed safe in a wooden frame at the customer and is ready for use after a few simple steps. The same box is reused when the bike is returned to us for repair or service. All shipping protections of the bike box such as pads, lashing straps, brackets and bolts are also reusable.
The following boxing and unboxing videos show the thought we put into shipping and how much engineering can go into a box alone:
The NICOLAI Bikebox is also available in Shop .
BIKE CONFIGURATOR
The EBOXX 2022 can be individually defined as a complete wheel in the configurator. Components from the manufacturers FOX, EXT, ROCK SHOX, INTEND, HOPE, MAGURA, TUNE, CONTINENTAL, SRAM, LEVELNINE are available.
G1 EBOXX QLF
Frame
NICOLAI EBOXX 2022
Fork
EXT e-Era 160mm 29" black
Rear shock
EXT e-Storia 230x65mm
Headset
ACROS Block Lock
Stem
HOPE Stem AM 35/35 black
Bar
ACROS Gothic 780/35 25mm rise black
Brake
MAGURA MT7, HC Bremshebel 203mm
Grips
SQLAB 70X - M
Wheelset
HOPE FORTUS 35 W 27,5"
Front tire
CONTINENTAL Der Baron Projekt ProTection Apex 29x2,4"
Rear tire
CONTINENTAL Der Baron Projekt ProTection Apex 27.5x2,6"
Saddle
SQlab 60X Ergowave active - 140
Seatpost
ROCKSHOX Reverb AXS 30,9 175mm
Crank
HOPE eBike Crankset 165mm black
Engine
BOSCH Performance Line CX
Battery
BOSCH Power Tube 750 Horizontal Black
Display
Without Display
Shifter
SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS
Derailleur
SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS
Chain ring
SRAM Bosch Kettenblatt X-Sync 34t
Cassette
SRAM PG-1230 11-50
Chain
SRAM NX Eagle
Pedals
ACROS A-Flat MD
TECH SHEET
G1 EBOXX QLF - 2022
MANUAL
G1 EBOXX QLF - 2022
PRESS RELEASE
EBOXX 2022
