GT1 EBOXX
QLFLINE
From 8399.00€
We have been building mountain bikes for 25 years, and for over 10 years we have also been building e-mountain bikes, or E-MTBs for short. E-MTBs work on the same principle as pedelecs, assisting the rider with pedaling up to a speed of 25 km/h with the help of an electric drive. But if you think you can transfer the old-man image of pedelecs to E-MTBs, you’re sorely mistaken. A mountain bike is a radical piece of sports equipment, and an E-MTB is an even more radical piece of sports equipment. You don’t exert yourself any less with it, you go to your limit just as much. The only difference is that the summit you climb is twice as high, the destination twice as far and the single trail twice as fast. An e-MTB is simply more fun to ride.
For 2021, we are offering the e-mountain bikes of our new EBOXX series in four basic variants, each of which is based on the BOSCH CX drive and the same frame design. Our customers can choose between two different geometry concepts and two gearshift types with a wide range of equipment options:
G1 stands for the sporty, long Geolution enduro geometry, GT1 for Geolution Tour, a more comfortable touring geometry. EBOXX models with the addition E14 are equipped with the electronic Rohloff E14 Speedhub hub gears. QLF stands for the derailleur variant.
The G1 EBOXX is a thoroughbred sports bike with the same radical Geolution enduro geometry on which the non-electrified NICOLAI models are based. Feedback from our customers shows us that the Geolution models are also very suitable for beginners. However, we also want to take into account that not every rider likes a sporty, forward riding position on the bike.
For pleasure bikers, we will therefore also offer the EBOXX from 2021 as the GT1 EBOXX, with a moderate touring geometry that carries the basic features and advantages of the Geolution concept, but allows the rider a comfortable and relaxed riding position.
All EBOXX models are available either as a frame kit or as complete wheels with various features. In addition, an Explorer Kit can be selected for each model, which makes the bike more suitable for everyday use and complies with the requirements of the StVZO.
Exclusively for the EBOXX E14 – complete bikes with Explorer kit, there is also an S-pedelec option, which allows motor assistance up to 45 km/h. This variant is subject to approval and therefore does not allow any deviation from the equipment listed in the vehicle registration document.
BOSCH CX
POWER
At the heart of our 2021 EBOXX models is a BOSCH Performance Line CX motor. The completely revised 4th generation of the most powerful BOSCH drive can boast numerous new features and improvements in 2021. With a maximum of 85 Nm of torque, the latest CX unit is even more powerful than its predecessors. The maximum power output now reaches 340% of the rider’s own power. This is noticeable through improved acceleration and more power at low cadence or in large gears. Starting on steep inclines has also become much easier as a result.
Despite the higher power, BOSCH has managed to further reduce the volume and weight of the drive unit. At 2.9 kg, the 2021 Performance Line CX motor is even lighter and more compact than its predecessor.
We equip our EBOXX models with the most powerful BOSCH Power Tube battery, which has a capacity of 625 Wh. When using all riding modes evenly, this allows a range of up to 82 km. 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.
KIOX OR NYON
ON-BOARD 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.
Control and sensor technology
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.
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.
Suspension elements
To achieve the maximum potential of a suspension system, after the frame design, the choice of the right suspension elements is crucial. We therefore only use shocks and forks from the US market leader FOX and the exclusive Italian racing forge EXT in our EBOXX models. FOX has been a high-end MTB supplier from the very beginning. As a technology leader FOX sets with its products again and again the benchmark against which the other brands must be measured.
EXT has been developing suspensions for the highest motorsport classes since 1986. Following 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 suspensions at the same high level. EXT shocks impress with features such as a particularly sensitive response, temperature stability and progressive, hydraulic puncture protection that can operate independently of the compression damping.
When it comes to shock absorbers, we do not install any standard models from the respective manufacturers, but exclusively factory-modified custom shocks whose shim stacks (elements in the shock that regulate oil flow and resistance) are individually matched to the requirement profile and suspension characteristics of the respective NICOLAI model.
Complete wheel equipment
Our 2021 EBOXX models are equipped with a wide range of new parts and options. The first thing that catches the eye is the newly developed FOX 38 Float suspension fork with the new GRIP2 shock cartridge, which replaces the previous FOX 36 Float. We offer the fork exclusively in the top variant “Factory” and with 160 mm travel. Due to improved stability and stiffness, the fork has received approval from FOX for brake discs up to a size of 230 mm.
As a new equipment option for 2021, we therefore now also offer a heavy-duty package for particularly heavy riders up to 150 kg total weight (rider and bike). In addition to a 220 mm MAGURA brake disc, this includes reinforced versions of the crankset, the lowerable seatpost and the wheelset.
Also new is the option to choose a so-called SUV tire set if the bike is to be used primarily for touring on paved roads but also occasionally off them. The new SCHWALBE Jonny Watts tires have been specially developed for this purpose. On hard surfaces, they roll particularly easily and quietly and also still offer very good grip when it goes off-road.
5 frame sizes
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
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.
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 both the E14 Rohloff and the QLF variant with derailleur. 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.
Chassis and kinematics
In addition to the geometry, the chassis of a mountain bike, in particular the construction of the suspended rear triangle, is the most important factor for riding fun and performance. A variety of requirements must be technically solved here. In order to achieve kinematics that offer competitive performance and maximum fun on the trail but at the same time decouple the rider’s movements from the work of the suspension, we have long been designing our 4-bar link rear triangles according to the proven Horst Link principle.
Through years of racing experience and with the help of simulation software, we have been able to further optimize the Horst-Link technology. For example, the anti-squat characteristics have been improved. Anti-squat means that on steep climbs in small gears, the chain pull induces a deflection movement of the rear wheel that counteracts the rider’s weight force when pedaling. The rear end doesn’t sag, the rider doesn’t lose power, and the tire claws into the ground. In long gears, on the other hand, i.e. when riding fast on downhill sections, the anti-squat effect is minimized by the modified chain tension vector, and the chassis operates sensitively and with a good ability to swallow.
The absorption of large forces requires high stability and torsional stiffness of the rear triangle. At the same time, the weight should be as low as possible. We have therefore designed the rear assembly with the help of topology optimization and thus achieve excellent STW values (strength to weight ratio).
A smooth-running, backlash-free bearing is a prerequisite for sensitive response, but it must also be robust, durable and maintenance-free. For this purpose, we install four-sealed, full-roller ball bearings that are specially suited for the highly stressed pivoting movements occurring at the rear triangle and are manufactured to a high industrial standard.
#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.
Swingarm mutator
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.
The inner and outer mutator shells are positively connected to the swing arm via a wedge-shaped rectangular structure. This completely prevents any twisting or play. The mutator components are both seal carrier and bearing axle. This minimizes the number of components and thus the number of sources of error.
As a customer, you can fully rely on the performance of the NICOLAI frame. In the depth of the technology we do our homework and have introduced a robust and simple geometry and bearing technology with the introduction of the MUTATOR.
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.
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 aluminum?
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.
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 G1 EBOXX QLF 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.
GT1 EBOXX QLFLINE
Frame
NICOLAI EBOXX 4
Fork
FOX RACING SHOX 38 Float 160 GRIP2 Factory BOOST, 2021
Rear shock
FOX RACING SHOX VAN RC 210x55
Headset
ACROS Block Lock
Stem
HOPE AM 35mm/35mm
Bar
ACROS Gothic 780/35 Rise 25mm
Brake
MAGURA MT7, HC Bremshebel 203mm
Grips
SQlab 70X - M
Wheelset
HOPE Fortus 35 W Pro 4 29" BOOST - 9-spline - black - SET
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
BIKEYOKE DIVINE 185mm
Crank
MIRANDA 160mm
Chain ring
SRAM X-Sync 34T Kettenblatt für Bosch
Engine
BOSCH CX Performance Line CX
Battery
BOSCH Power Tube 625 Horizontal Black
Display
BOSCH KIOX
Shifter
SRAM GX 11-fach
Derailleur
SRAM GX Type2.1, 11-fach
Cassette
SRAM NX PG-1130 11-42t, 11- fach
Chain
SRAM Kette CN-PC1130
Pedals
ACROS A-Flat MD
TECH SHEET
GT1 EBOXX QLFLINE - 2021
MANUAL
GT1 EBOXX QLFLINE - 2021
