Yamaha is back in the race with its PW-X3 engine for E-MTB more compact, light and efficient

Thirty years after inventing the first electric-assisted bicycle, Yamaha found itself somewhat shaken up by players such as Bosch and Shimano, who later entered the world of electric-assisted bicycles, but today just as renowned and dynamic. Despite all its qualities, its spearhead, the PW-X2, was starting to suffer when compared to the Performance Line CX from Bosch and EP8 from Shimano, to name a few. In order to stay in the game, Yamaha therefore had to offer a new engine that was both more compact and more efficient. It’s done with the PW-X3, the new flagship of the Japanese brand.

More compact, lighter, more efficient

First notable change, the volume of the PW-X3 drops significantly, this new engine being 20% ​​more compact than the PW-X2. What to simplify the integration, to offer more latitude in the geometries and to lighten the design of the bikes which will be equipped with it, especially since it is always quite narrow and offers a Q factor (distance between the cranks) reduced thanks to a 128mm ISIS interface crank axle (as on previous PW-X engines). This reduction in volume is accompanied by a reduction in mass, the PW-X3 dropping below the 3 kg mark, with 2.75 kg against 3.1 kg for its predecessor.

The PW-X3 is no less powerful, quite the contrary: its maximum torque drops from 75 Nm to 85 Nm, thus equaling the Bosch Performance Line CX and Shimano EP8 motors – on paper at least, since a motor is of course not just a maximum torque value.

A lean and connected X interface

Launched at the same time as the PW-X3, Yamaha’s X interface consists of a small minimalist control simply acting on the assistance level and an equally minimalist led display simply indicating the battery level and ‘assistance. This is sufficient for most mountain bikers looking for a sleek cockpit, knowing that it is possible for bike manufacturers to opt for another more complete Yamaha interface.

This X interface nevertheless offers ANT + connectivity, allowing connection to Garmin (Edge 530, 830, 1030, 1030 Plus and Edge Explore), Sigma (EOX 1300 and EOX View 1300) and Echowell (LEV100) GPS meters.

Contrary to other manufacturers who are always increasing the capacity of their batteries, Yamaha is also highlighting its new Crossover 400 battery, designed to be light (2.8 kg) and easily accessible on the bike to simplify its removal and its establishment. Its 410 Wh can be charged in about three and a half hours, according to Yamaha.

The PW-X3 and its ecosystem will be integrated on several E-MTBs in the 2022 range, which should logically start to point the end of their handlebars in the coming weeks.