Honda unveiled its first high-performance electric mountain bike during EICMA 2026, a motorcycle event held in Milan, Italy. This new model, named RN0, was developed in collaboration with the German manufacturer Rotwild, blending aesthetic elements inspired by Rotwild motorcycles with components focused on off-road cycling.
The RN0 is positioned in the market as a premium offering of electric bikes. Although it incorporates advanced technology and a carbon fiber frame, it also integrates automated systems to simplify the experience for novice cyclists. The sale of this model will be restricted to specific Honda dealerships.
The propulsion system used in the RN0 is the EP810, supplied by Shimano, which has the capacity to generate up to 750W of maximum power and 100 Nm of torque. Power is supplied by a removable 720 Wh lithium-ion battery.
A notable feature is the Shimano Di2 electronic shifting system, which includes AUTO SHIFT and AUTO ASSIST functionalities. These features automate both gear changes and part of the electric assistance management, reducing the need for cyclist intervention during the ride.
Additionally, the motor ensures that power is delivered to the rear wheel for a brief period after pedaling stops, a characteristic that, according to the proposal, helps the bike overcome obstacles when the cyclist stops pedaling.
However, such features may not be ideal for more experienced mountain bikers, who generally prefer to maintain manual control over power and transmission. On complex trails, maintaining electric assistance can result in less predictable bike behavior.
Structurally, the Honda RN0 features a monocoque frame made of high-modulus carbon fiber, equipped with a reinforced front tube and a large bottom tube to house the battery. Its robust design recalls the style of motocross motorcycles.
The bike uses parts from renowned industry manufacturers. The front suspension is a Fox 36 Float Factory, with a 160 mm travel, while the rear features a Fox Float X Factory shock absorber, offering 145 mm of travel. The wheels have a mixed configuration: 29 inches in the front and 27.5 inches in the rear. The braking system consists of four-piston Shimano Deore XT hydraulic brakes, coupled with 203 mm discs, and the tires are Schwalbe Albert Evo radial.
In the large size version, the RN0 weighs 24 kg. Despite the quality of construction and finish, preliminary tests identified an acoustic issue: the hollow carbon frame tends to amplify mechanical noises generated by the chain and transmission vibrations during use.
The RN0's distribution approach sets it apart from other electric mountain bikes. Instead of being sold in specialized cycling stores, the model will be exclusively marketed at selected Honda dealerships that sell motorcycles, automobiles, and boats.
This strategy aims to bring the bike closer to customers who already frequent these establishments looking for higher-value vehicles. The collaboration with Rotwild also signals the Japanese manufacturer's entry into this niche of electric mountain bikes for the end consumer.
Rotwild, the German company, already has experience working with high-end automotive brands such as Porsche and Mercedes-Benz. The RN0 makes a historical reference to Honda, as its name evokes the RN01, a downhill bike presented in the mid-2000s that won a World Cup title in the discipline.
Although Honda has not yet released the official price of the RN0, market estimates suggest a range of US$ 9,000 to US$ 12,000. At this price point, the model will compete with bikes such as the Specialized Turbo Levo and the Santa Cruz Heckler.
