Electric bicycle launch details

The Amflow TL Carbon, a new electric bicycle designed for versatility in both urban and trail environments, has been launched with a price of 3,499 € for the 800 Wh battery version. The bicycle features a carbon frame, the Avinox M2 motor, and dual Fox suspension, offering a range of configurations to suit different uses such as commuting, mountain trail rides, and loaded hiking trips.

Battery options and customization

It is available in two battery capacities, 600 Wh or 800 Wh, with the latter capable of being extended to 1,280 Wh using a separate 480 Wh extender that attaches to the bottle holder mount. The same mounting point can accommodate a water bottle or an extra battery depending on the day's use.

Lightweight frame and powerful motor

The frame, made entirely of carbon, weighs 2.9 kg, with the total weight of the bicycle being less than 23 kg. The Avinox M2 motor delivers a nominal torque of 110 Nm and a peak of 125 Nm, with a peak power of 1,100 W. It is among the lightest motors on the market at 2.65 kg and includes redesigned cooling fins and one of the quietest noise levels in its category.

Suspension and load capacity

The full suspension was developed with Fox, featuring a 120 mm fork in front and a 105 mm shock in the rear, with pressure adjustment indexed on the cyclist's weight. The bicycle supports up to 20 kg of load in the front and 27 kg in the rear, via removable racks compatible with child seats, and can accommodate a cyclist weighing up to 125 kg.

Transmission and braking system

The transmission includes an electronic derailleur with 10 speeds (cassette 11-43, chainring 38), developed in collaboration with Avinox, allowing gear changes while stopped or without pedaling. Disc braking is handled by Tektro hydraulic calipers with 4 pistons.

User interface and app integration

A touchscreen, which also offers a USB-C port, is integrated into the top tube with swipe navigation to access multiple pieces of information: cyclist/motor power, distance, slope, altitude, speed, and estimated remaining range. The Avinox Ride application allows personalizing assistance levels, motor power, and responsiveness according to the user's preferences, and provides ride tracking, synchronization with Strava, and importation of GPX routes for GPS navigation directly on the bicycle's screen.

Assembly and ride experience

During testing, the bicycle's assembly was noted for its simplicity, with all necessary tools provided and a clear manual, complemented by an official video tutorial. The suspension adjustment, indexed on weight via a simple reference label, reinforced this accessibility. On the ride, the TL Carbon confirmed its vocation as a do-it-all bicycle, with the ability to switch configurations easily.

Comfort and usability

The double Fox suspension provided significant comfort on both urban roads and trails, with wide knobby tires offering good grip on wet roads and trails. The integrated touchscreen was clear, well positioned, and easy to read in all lighting conditions, and the telescopic seat post, controlled from the handlebar, adjusted to the millimeter without tools and without delay.

Notable reservations

Some reservations were noted, including a handlebar considered too wide, which could benefit from an alternative or variable width, and a rear light powered by its own independent battery rather than connected to the main battery of the bicycle. A more integrated approach with synchronized lighting with the front light, or even a flash on braking, would have been preferable for safety in urban use as well as loaded outings.

Market positioning and features

The Amflow TL Carbon is marketed in France at 3,499 € in the 800 Wh version. It is aimed at users seeking a versatile bicycle for commuting, transport, and loaded outings, with equipment modularity making it a credible candidate for both daily urban use and bikepacking. A more extreme off-road use would rather orient towards the PL range.

Strengths and weaknesses

Strengths include a rare equipment/price ratio, simple and accessible assembly, equipment modularity, a telescopic seat post controlled from the handlebar, a clear touchscreen, wide knobby tires, and a complete and intuitive Avinox Ride application. Weaknesses include a rear light not connected to the main battery or the touchscreen, a handlebar too wide, and only two frame sizes available.