In the fall of 2024, we launched the ASTR RS—a gravel bike that was hailed by multiple specialized reviewers as the new benchmark in gravel performance. With its combination of tire clearance up to 52 mm and a performance-oriented geometry, it immediately impressed. Today, we expand this acclaimed ASTR family with an electric variant: the E-ASTR. As our second e-bike, the E-ASTR offers every rider the chance to enjoy the unique ride characteristics of the ASTR—with a subtle boost.

The ASTR RS made a big impact in the gravel scene. It was our response to increasingly rugged gravel routes, where agility and control are essential. Independent testers were highly enthusiastic and called the ASTR RS a game-changer in the gravel segment. High praise that encouraged us to continue pursuing our vision: this gravel bike also deserved an electric future. The E-ASTR delivers a sporty, natural riding experience—with just a bit more power, without sacrificing finesse or control.

The E-ASTR is equipped with the brand-new TQ HPR40 drive unit. It offers the highest torque-to-weight ratio in its class, is virtually silent, and delivers responsiveness that blurs the line between rider and motor. This piece of high-tech finesse is currently the lightest and most compact on the market. Weighing just 1.2 kg for the motor and 1.42 kg for the battery, total system weight remains minimal. That shows visually as well: the motor is discreetly tucked behind the chainrings, and the battery is stylishly integrated into the downtube.

Our engineers also chose subtlety in the bike’s finishing. There is no screen integrated into the top tube, preserving a clean and sleek appearance. Instead, a set of discreet LED lights in the bar plug indicates the selected assist level. In both appearance and ride feel, the E-ASTR remains faithful to the classic gravel bike. The motor is invisible—only a trained eye or rider will notice the added support.

The TQ HPR40 also delivers a ride experience that feels completely natural. The motor kicks in when needed and smoothly disengages above 25 km/h—exactly when you don’t need it. There’s no noticeable transition, no added resistance. The ride remains 100% that of a traditional gravel bike. On slower or more demanding sections, it feels like you’ve got a strong tailwind. With up to 40 Nm of torque and 200 watts of extra power, the drive system provides just enough assistance to handle any challenge with ease—without ever feeling like the bike is doing the work for you.

The 290 Wh battery capacity is more than sufficient for most gravel rides. For those wanting more range, an optional 160 Wh range extender is available. In this way, the E-ASTR stays true to our philosophy: natural performance, without compromise.

The E-ASTR inherits the exact same geometry as the ASTR and ASTR RS. That means: a 71.5° head tube angle for sharp, responsive steering and a 74° seat tube angle for optimal power transfer. With a bottom bracket drop of 75 mm, you get high-speed stability, while the short 425 mm chainstays provide a playful and responsive ride feel.

With the ASTR RS, we had already anticipated the trend toward wider tires in gravel racing. It positioned us as innovators in the off-road segment—and during the latest edition of UNBOUND, the world’s most famous gravel race, many riders followed suit by switching to wider tires. The generous 52 mm tire clearance (in both frame and fork) is carried over into the E-ASTR and provides a significant advantage, as wider tires easily offset the additional weight of the battery.

We embrace e-bikes as a natural part of the evolving cycling landscape and strongly believe in their future—something we already demonstrated with our first step into electric bikes through the E-Grifn. With the E-ASTR, we introduce an electric gravel bike that stays true to the winning qualities of the ASTR RS, including its groundbreaking 52 mm tire clearance: sporty, agile, and natural in its ride feel. Rather than opting for heavy, overpowered systems, the E-ASTR delivers just the right level of support to enhance your ride without sacrificing control or fluidity. This marks a clear step forward into the future of gravel, while honouring the essence of what makes the discipline so special.