Sonder El Camino Apex 1 Review: A Pure Electric Gravel Bike at a Great Price
Last Updated on December 30, 2024 by Kristina
The Sonder El Camino Apex 1 offers a fantastic mix of off-road capability, value for money, and a solid electric assist system. With an affordable price tag of €2,999, or $3,899, this electric gravel bike is designed to conquer rough terrain while providing a smooth and controlled ride. In this review, we will dive deep into the bike’s features, performance, and specifications based on reported tests and reviews to help you decide if the El Camino is the right choice for your next electric gravel bike.
Features of the Sonder El Camino Apex 1
The Sonder El Camino Apex 1 stands out with its blend of well-thought-out components, capable motor system, and solid build. Here’s a closer look at what makes this bike unique:
- Frame: The frame is made from butted 6061-T6 aluminium, a durable material that keeps the bike lightweight without compromising strength. It also features a distinctive sloping top tube and generous tyre clearance of up to 50mm, making it an ideal companion for gravel and off-road routes.
- Geometry: Inspired by mountain bike design, the geometry offers off-road stability and a sporty riding position, ideal for navigating challenging gravel terrain.
- Motor System: The Kynamic Hub Drive 250W motor provides smooth pedal assistance with three selectable modes. It offers a claimed 45Nm of torque, helping you power through difficult inclines without breaking a sweat.
- Drivetrain: The SRAM Apex 1 mechanical drivetrain is a reliable entry-level gravel groupset. It comes with an 11-speed cassette (11-42T) and an ebike-specific FSA crankset with a 40-tooth chainring, providing solid shifting performance.
- Tyres & Wheels: The bike is equipped with Goodyear Connector 45mm tyres mounted on Sonder Alpha EX wheels. The 45mm tyres are perfect for tackling off-road terrain and provide excellent grip, while the alloy rims are tubeless-ready.
- Brakes: The SRAM Apex hydraulic disc brakes, combined with 160mm rotors, provide strong and reliable stopping power, though they can get a bit noisy after a long, technical descent.
- Battery: The 250Wh internal battery is housed within the down tube, offering decent range for off-road excursions. The bike comes with a Kynamic battery charger, and future range extenders will be available.
- Control System: The top tube-mounted OLED screen and wired remote controls let you easily adjust motor modes on the fly. Though the remote controls are not ideally placed, they still work effectively.
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Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | €2,999 / $3,899 |
| Frame | 6061-T6 Aluminium |
| Fork | Carbon |
| Motor | Kynamic Hub Drive 250W |
| Battery | 250Wh Internal |
| Drivetrain | SRAM Apex 1, 11-speed (11-42T) |
| Crankset | FSA CK-745 Ebike, 40T |
| Tyres | Goodyear Connector 45mm |
| Brakes | SRAM Apex Hydraulic, 160mm rotors |
| Wheels | Sonder Alpha EX 700c |
| Handlebar | Sonder Bomber 56cm |
| Seatpost | Sonder Alloy |
| Saddle | Sonder Abode |
| Weight | 13.75 kg (Size L) |
| Motor Torque | 45Nm |
| Battery Range | 54km (off-road) / 95.73 km (mixed terrain) |
Pros of the Sonder El Camino Apex 1
- Impressive Off-Road Capability: The El Camino excels in rough, challenging terrain. Based on reports, its mountain bike-inspired geometry, wide tyres, and powerful motor system help it handle bumps, rocks, and gravel with ease.
- Value for Money: At £2,999 / €2,999 / $3,899, the El Camino offers excellent value for the price. Compared to similar bikes in its class, it offers a solid specification at a competitive price point.
- Smooth Ride with Motor Assistance: The Kynamic Hub Drive motor provides smooth and consistent pedal assistance, which is perfect for tackling steep inclines or powering through tough gravel paths.
- Comfortable Fit: With a wide handlebar, comfortable saddle, and reliable tyres, the bike offers a smooth and forgiving ride, ensuring comfort during long rides on rough terrain.
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Cons of the Sonder El Camino Apex 1
- Sluggish on Tarmac: The bike’s geometry and wide tyres make it less nimble on smooth roads, and it can feel sluggish on tarmac.
- Noisy Brakes When Hot: After long, technical descents, the SRAM Apex hydraulic brakes can become noisy until they cool down.
- Older Drivetrain: While the SRAM Apex 1 drivetrain works reliably, it is showing its age compared to newer 12-speed options available on the market.
- Remote Control Placement: The remote controls for adjusting motor modes are mounted a bit far from the handlebars, making it inconvenient for quick adjustments during technical riding.
Who Is the Sonder El Camino Apex 1 Good For?
The Sonder El Camino Apex 1 is ideal for gravel enthusiasts looking for an electric bike that can handle challenging off-road routes. Its mountain bike-inspired geometry and capable motor system make it perfect for tackling rough gravel paths, singletrack, and technical woodland trails. Based on its reported performance, if you’re someone who values off-road performance and is looking for an electric assist system to help you tackle tough terrain, the El Camino will be a great companion.
This bike also caters to those who want an affordable electric gravel bike with solid features, without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned gravel rider or someone new to the scene, the El Camino’s price and performance make it a top contender.
Sonder El Camino Geometry (Size Large)
| Size | Seat Tube Angle | Head Tube Angle | Chainstay | Wheelbase | Standover | Reach | Stack |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Large | 74° | 69° | 440mm | 1078.8mm | 773.9mm | 420mm | 601mm |
| Medium | 74° | 69° | 440mm | 1078.8mm | 773.9mm | 395mm | 582.6mm |
| Small | 74.5° | 69° | 440mm | 1056.7mm | 765.9mm | 380mm | 563.9mm |
| Extra-Large | 73° | 69° | 440mm | 1138.2mm | 834.7mm | 440mm | 616.9mm |
Range and Performance
Reports indicate that the range of the Sonder El Camino Apex 1 is impressive for an electric gravel bike. During off-road excursions, testers achieved 54 km (33.56 miles) with 467m of elevation gain, primarily on singletrack and bridleways. For smoother, mixed-terrain routes, the range increased to 95.73 km (59.5 miles) with 878m of elevation gain. The range is more than enough for most gravel adventures, and a range extender will be available soon for riders seeking even more distance.
The motor’s three modes offer a smooth transition of power: the lowest setting provides subtle assistance, while the highest mode helps you power up steep, loose-surface climbs with ease.
Should You Buy the Sonder El Camino Apex 1?
The Sonder El Camino Apex 1 is an outstanding electric gravel bike that offers excellent off-road capability at a very competitive price. With its capable motor system, sturdy frame, and solid components, it’s designed to take on the toughest gravel and dirt paths. Its price of €2,999 / $3,899 makes it a value-packed option for gravel enthusiasts.
However, if you’re seeking alternative options, consider the following:
- Cairn E-Adventure €2,899 / $3,550): A competitor with the Fazua drive system, providing more refined pedal assist and slightly better road performance.
- Giant Revolt E €4,999 / $5,499): A higher-priced option with a more powerful motor and additional features, ideal for those who want a more road-friendly electric gravel bike.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a fun and capable electric gravel bike that doesn’t break the bank, the Sonder El Camino Apex 1 is a fantastic choice.
What do you think about the Sonder El Camino Apex 1? Are you considering this electric gravel bike for your next adventure? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or share your favorite electric gravel bike with us!
Kristina is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.
Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
