For those in the know, the Gas Gas name screams motorsports, and the ECC6 e-bike certainly turns heads on the trail. This isn’t just a rebranded mountain bike; Gas Gas has brought their moto expertise to the e-MTB world, creating a machine that appeals to dirt bike veterans and seasoned mountain bikers alike. Don’t let the bold red frame fool you – the ECC6 is packed with high-end components and a performance-focused design that makes it a serious contender in the enduro e-MTB category.
Before we dive into the ride experience, let’s cover the essentials. The ECC6 is built for aggressive enduro riding and boasts top-tier components, including SRAM’s advanced Powertrain drive system. Powering your adventures is a 630Wh swappable battery, neatly integrated but a tad tricky to remove, a minor point in an otherwise well-thought-out design. The suspension is where things get interesting, featuring a collaboration between DVO and WP. For those with a dirt bike background, WP suspension is a familiar name, and its inclusion here signals Gas Gas’s commitment to performance. This setup combines DVO’s expertise with WP’s cone valve technology, promising a ride that’s both plush and controlled. With the tech specs covered, let’s hit the trails and see what the Gas Gas ECC6 is truly capable of.
Gas Gas ECC6: Conquering Climbs and Descents
Uphill Performance: Power and Poise
Let’s tackle the climbs first. The ECC6 showcases both strengths and minor drawbacks when pointed uphill. The SRAM Powertrain system is a definite highlight. It delivers ample power, seamless integrations, and a user-friendly interface. The simplicity of just two power modes is actually refreshing; often, one really dialed-in mode is all you need. The power delivery is smooth and controlled, avoiding any jarring surges. While on flatter sections, it might not feel as punchy as some other e-bike motors, but when the gradient steepens and you drop into lower gears, the Powertrain truly excels, pulling ahead of the competition. For tackling those ridiculously steep climbs that you’d usually dismiss on a regular bike, the ECC6 and its motor are a game-changer. SRAM Powertrain earns high marks for its climbing prowess.
The 630Wh battery capacity is adequate for substantial rides, but it’s not the largest in the full-power e-bike category. For epic days with massive elevation gains, consider a battery swap to keep the adventures rolling.
A quick note on the auto-shift feature – while innovative, it might not resonate with all riders. Personal preference leans towards manual shifting for maximum control. However, for riders who prefer a more automated experience, focusing solely on pedaling, the auto-shift is a notable feature. The ability to shift while coasting is undeniably useful, allowing for gear adjustments right before punchy climbs or corner exits.
The ECC6’s geometry is undeniably long. A slack head tube angle and a generous reach (especially on the XL size of the large frame) contribute to its stability. Combined with 461mm chainstays, this is a substantial bike. This length brings both advantages and disadvantages. The extended wheelbase, particularly the long chainstays, becomes a major asset on those extreme climbs. Typically, on e-MTBs, steep climbs are limited by the front wheel lifting and losing traction. The ECC6’s long chainstays shift your weight forward, keeping the front end planted and tracking straight, making it a superior climber in challenging terrain.
However, this long geometry demands more effort in tight, twisty trails. Navigating tight corners can feel like a wrestling match. Fortunately, the suspension platform isn’t overly soft, preventing excessive wallow and bob, which would exacerbate handling issues. For a 160mm bike with a coil shock, the suspension offers commendable support. While there is some bob, it’s within acceptable limits for an e-MTB, and the enhanced traction from a more active suspension platform is beneficial on technical climbs.
Downhill Performance: Stable and Plow-Ready
Descending on the ECC6 highlights its stability and “plowability” as key strengths. The long wheelbase truly shines here, providing immense confidence when charging through rough terrain. However, this stability comes at the cost of agility. The ECC6 is built for riders who favor pointing and shooting down the trail, rather than playful, nimble handling. It excels at steamrolling over obstacles – rocks, roots, and anything else in its path. You’ll feel the terrain through the suspension, but the bike remains composed and unflappable, maintaining its line.
The suspension isn’t overly plush or wallowy, which is arguably a positive trait. Often, e-bikes, due to their weight distribution, can feel plusher than their travel numbers suggest – the “e-bike effect.” The ECC6, however, feels more like a traditional 160mm bike, which is a good thing in terms of control and responsiveness. Imagine pairing overly soft suspension with the ECC6’s long wheelbase – it could become unwieldy and cumbersome on descents.
The ECC6 thrives on steeper, faster descents. It feels less at home on flat, mellow trails, where it can feel overbiked and handling can become cumbersome. Pumping and jumping aren’t its primary strengths. But when the trail points downhill and speed increases, the ECC6 transforms. Handling improves, the bike’s weight becomes less noticeable, and maneuverability increases. In this regard, it shares similarities with the Giant Trance X E+, likely due to their comparable chainstay lengths.
One minor drawback is noise. While some bike noise is often overlooked, the ECC6 is on the louder side. Cable management, plastic frame protectors, and the battery contribute to the noise level. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s worth noting – stealth mode isn’t really an option on this bike. This could potentially be addressed with some DIY adjustments for those sensitive to noise.
Gas Gas ECC6: Comparisons to Consider
Giant Trance X E+ vs Gas Gas ECC6
The ECC6 shares handling similarities with the Giant Trance X E+, particularly in stability and overall length. However, the Trance X E+ offers a significantly different suspension feel – plusher, deeper, and more forgiving. The ECC6 prioritizes a more race-oriented, firmer suspension setup while maintaining comparable stability and length.
Read the Trance X E+ Review
Transition Repeater vs Gas Gas ECC6
The original Transition Repeater comes to mind when considering the ECC6, particularly due to their similar suspension feel. However, geometry differences lead to distinct trail manners. The Repeater is more agile and maneuverable, whereas the ECC6 excels at straight-line speed and bulldozing through obstacles.
Read the Repeater Review
Who is the Gas Gas ECC6 Designed For?
The Gas Gas ECC6 appeals to several rider profiles. Firstly, and most obviously, riders with a moto background will find a natural affinity for this bike. The Gas Gas name provides a sense of familiarity and trust. For moto enthusiasts venturing into mountain biking, the ECC6 offers a comfortable transition, bridging the gap between two-wheeled worlds. Imagine if Santa Cruz, a renowned mountain bike brand, made a motocross bike – moto riders would likely be intrigued, trusting their MTB expertise would translate well. The ECC6 offers the reverse appeal to moto converts.
Secondly, riders who prioritize stability and “plowability” over playful handling will appreciate the ECC6. If jumping and jibbing aren’t your focus, and you prefer a bike that can confidently tackle any terrain in its path, the ECC6 is a strong contender.
Thirdly, component aficionados will be drawn to the ECC6’s high-end spec. It’s dripping with top-of-the-line parts, offering a premium build that rivals many higher-priced e-MTBs.
Finally, tinkerers will find plenty to play with. The highly adjustable suspension and customizable frame guards offer endless opportunities for fine-tuning and personalization. For those who enjoy wrenching and tweaking their bikes, the ECC6 provides a playground for experimentation. For others? Just hop on and ride!
That wraps up the review of the Gas Gas ECC6. Until next time, keep the wheels turning!
