Test / E-MTB: Propain took their time, but now it's here – the Sresh SL, the first light e-MTB from the Allgäu-based direct-to-consumer brand. Promising to combine the natural feel of a mountain bike with subtle yet effective assistance, the Sresh SL enters a highly competitive arena. Equipped with the quiet TQ-HPR60 drive system, a well-designed modular battery concept, and a wealth of configuration options, it aims to win over both seasoned e-bikers and curious "bio-bikers." We put the bike through its paces on the challenging trails of Finale Ligure to find out if it lives up to the hype and for whom the Sresh SL concept is best suited.
The Propain Sresh SL: The Facts
Propain took its time entering the lightweight e-MTB segment. The result, the Sresh SL, is anything but a rushed job. It presents itself as a well-thought-out overall concept, relying on a lightweight full-carbon frame, the proven PRO10 rear suspension system, and a modern, yet not overly extreme, geometry. With 160 mm of travel up front and 150 mm in the rear, the Sresh SL positions itself as a capable all-rounder for trail and all-mountain riding.
Centerpiece: The TQ-HPR60 drive
The chosen drive system is the TQ-HPR60, a motor known for its low weight, compact design, and, above all, its virtually silent operation. With 60 Nm of maximum torque and a peak output of 350 watts, it ranks slightly behind lighter drives like the Bosch Performance Line SX on paper. TQ's patented Harmonic Pin Ring transmission ensures direct and natural power delivery without the abrupt engagement found in some other motors. The system is controlled via an elegant color display integrated into the top tube and a minimalist, ergonomic remote on the handlebars. The accompanying app also allows for individual tuning of the support levels, from maximum power output to pedal responsiveness.
Unique: The modular battery concept
A standout feature of the Sresh SL is its modular battery system. Propain has prioritized maximum flexibility here. The battery is not only removable – a rarity for light e-MTBs – but also available in two sizes. The bike comes standard with a lightweight 360 Wh battery, which keeps the overall weight down. A larger 580 Wh battery is available as an option, providing significantly greater range. It's important to note that the 580 Wh battery, due to its length, only fits frame sizes M and larger. For riders of size S, or those who need even more capacity for particularly long rides, there's an optional range extender with an additional 160 Wh. This is securely and rattle-free attached to the frame using a specially designed bottle cage from Sixpack. Intelligent battery management ensures that when the range extender is connected, its energy is used first before the main battery is used. This allows the extender to be connected only when needed while riding.
Frame, geometry and details
The Sresh SL's frame is constructed entirely from Blend Carbon, a mixture of different carbon fibers designed to achieve the optimal balance of stiffness, flex, and impact resistance at every point of the frame. The PRO10 rear suspension system with 150 mm of travel is engineered for sensitive initial response, ample mid-stroke support, and high end-stroke progression for handling big hits.
A flip chip at the shock mount allows the geometry to be adjusted for use with either pure 29-inch wheels or a mullet configuration (29″ front, 27.5″ rear). With a head angle of 64,5 degrees and an effective seat angle of 78 degrees (in the 29″ configuration), the geometry is modern and designed for downhill performance without sacrificing climbing ability.
| S | M | L | XL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reach (mm) | 425 | 450 | 475 | 500 |
| Stacks (mm) | 618 | 627 | 636 | 645 |
| seat tube (mm) | 390 | 410 | 430 | 460 |
| Steering angle (in °) | 64,1 | 64,1 | 64,1 | 64,1 |
| Seat angle (in °) | 77,6 | 77,6 | 77,6 | 77,6 |
| top tube (mm) | 589 | 616 | 642 | 662 |
| chainstays (mm) | 450 | 450 | 450 | 450 |
| head tube (mm) | 100 | 110 | 120 | 130 |
| BB Drop (mm) | 31/12 | 31/12 | 31/12 | 31/12 |
Propain demonstrates a love for detail: Customers can choose between classic internal cable routing with entry points at the head tube or fully integrated routing through the headset for an exceptionally clean look. Generous frame protectors on the chainstays and seatstays, as well as a clever motor cover that houses a multi-tool, complete the well-thought-out package.
The Propain Sresh SL in practical testing
So much for the theory. On the trail, the Sresh SL has to prove that the sum of its parts adds up to a compelling riding experience. Our size L test bike came with high-end components, similar to Propain's "Ultimate" build kit, and was tested with both battery sizes as well as the range extender.
| Frame | Sresh SL Blend Carbon |
| Fork | Rockshox Lyrik Ultimate |
| Drive | TQ HPR60 |
| Battery | 360 Wh |
| Suspension shocks | Rockshox Superdeluxe Ultimate |
| Wheels | Newmen Beskar 30 Trail |
| Tire VR | Continental Kryptotal Enduro Supersoft |
| Tire HR | Continental Kryptotal Enduro Soft |
| derailleur | SRAM X0 transmission |
| Shifter | Sram AXS Pod |
| Crank | Praxis Works Carbon |
| Front derailleur | Without |
| Brake | Sram Maven Silver |
| Brake discs | Sram HS2 200/200mm |
| Seatpost | Rockshox Reverb AXS 175 mm |
| Saddle | |
| Stem | Sixpack Millennium |
| Handlebar | Oneup Carbon Riser 20mm |
First impressions: weight and handling
Weight is the first thing that stands out. With the 360 Wh battery, the bike weighs just under 18,9 kg (size L, without pedals) – an excellent figure for an e-MTB with this suspension travel and robust components. This weight advantage is immediately noticeable on the trail. The Sresh SL feels lively and playful, easy to launch into the air, and agile through tight corners. It delivers a riding experience that is surprisingly close to that of a non-motorized mountain bike. With the heavier 580 Wh battery, the weight increases to around 19,6 kg. The additional weight is noticeable but only slightly affects the bike's inherently agile character. The bike feels more planted on the trail without becoming sluggish. The optional range extender adds another 1,2 kg and places this weight relatively high in the frame triangle, noticeably raising the center of gravity. It is therefore less recommended for permanent use, but a sensible option as an emergency reserve in a backpack.
Engine and range in practice
The TQ-HPR60 motor is the unsung hero of the Sresh SL. Its greatest strength is its unobtrusiveness. Off-road, the drive system is virtually inaudible. You only hear the tire noise and the movement of the suspension. The power delivery is also extremely natural and smooth. There's no abrupt surge; instead, it feels like you suddenly have superhumanly strong legs. If you're looking for a motor that powerfully propels you uphill, this isn't the one for you. The TQ motor is more of a congenial partner that subtly amplifies your own power. It absorbs peak loads on steep inclines, allowing you to ride longer in your optimal heart rate zone without becoming completely exhausted. This leaves more energy for the descent.
As with any e-bike, the range depends heavily on riding style and the selected assistance level. Those who use the motor only as subtle support – primarily in the lower two of the three levels – can even manage tours with the small 360 Wh battery. 1.500 Conquering elevation gains and more. The 580 Wh battery extends the range accordingly, making the Sresh SL a truly tour-ready companion. A unique feature is the option to ride the bike completely without the battery. Weighing in at just around 17 kg, the Sresh SL becomes a powerful companion for bike park use or shuttle days – a real advantage offered by few e-MTBs. However, it's important to note that the electronic shifting systems are connected to the main battery via cable. Therefore, with SRAM, you'll need to use an AXS battery, while with Shimano Di2, you're likely limited to singlespeed operation.
Performance on the trail
On descents, the Sresh SL demonstrates its all-around capabilities. The PRO10 suspension performs superbly, offering an excellent blend of sensitivity and support. It effectively filters out small bumps while simultaneously providing clear feedback from the terrain. In fast, rough sections, the bike remains remarkably stable and inspires confidence. The rear suspension is remarkably responsive and utilizes its travel efficiently without bottoming out on hard impacts. In corners, the bike offers precise steering and generates excellent grip.
In a direct comparison between the 29-inch and mullet configurations, we preferred the pure 29-inch version in our test. It offered better rollover characteristics on the rocky trails of Finale Ligure and felt smoother and more balanced overall, without sacrificing agility.
The riding position is very efficient and centered uphill thanks to the steep seat angle. You sit "in" rather than "on" the bike and put a lot of pressure on the front wheel, which makes climbing technical sections much easier. On flatter sections, however, the riding position can feel a bit cramped for taller riders between two sizes (in the test, size L for 1,86 m). In this case, going up a frame size might be worth considering.
