Putting in my first pedal stroke on the new Instinct Powerplay instantly reminded me what I love so much about Rocky Mountain’s bespoke motor system.
The power delivery from the motor is instant, even with the 2.6 Maxxis Rekon semi slick tyres, it got up some really steep, rooty climbs with ease.
At first glance, the new Instinct looks a lot like it’s much loved big brother in the range, the Altitude Powerplay. This is no surprise, as the two different frames share a lot of the same DNA. The new Instinct uses the same motor and 632 watt/hour battery that Rocky Mountain have developed for their Powerplay range which sits neatly in the slim downtube, which is something you don’t get on a lot of other e-mtb’s.
When Rocky introduced their first ebike, the Altitude Powerplay, it mirrored the same geometry as their regular Altitude model. For the Instinct, they have chosen a slightly different approach. The chainstays are slightly longer, not to accommodate the 29” wheels, but to make sure the Instinct excels on the climbs. Apart from this, the Instinct Powerplay shares all the same geometry and features as it’s non-powered counterpart, right down to the ride-9 adjustments.
One big improvement for the 2019 Altitude and Instinct models is the new Iwoc. Its quick and easy to use whilst out riding with two decent sized buttons to change between the three power modes. With the two lights that indicate power mode and battery level, and the vibration when you flick through the modes, it makes it really easy to keep your eyes on the trail ahead instead of having to keep looking at your bars to see what mode you are in or how much battery you have left!
So, the important question. How does the new Instinct Powerplay ride?
The 29” wheels mean it carries insane speed over any descent you can throw it down. Rolling over roots and ruts but still hooking up really well on any corner when you need it to. The only thing I might be inclined to change is the stock semi-slick Maxxis tyres that come on the bike to get even more grip on steep, techy trails. Don’t let the fact that the Instinct is running 140mm travel put you off. The Fox 34 Performance forks and DPS Performance Elite Shock are supple and progressive and track really well out on the trail but are also a solid when you start taking bigger hits and picking up the pace. Like we have become accustomed to with the Powerplay range, the Instinct feels just like your normal bike and inspired confidence over any feature I could find.
My Opinion.
Overall, I think that the Instinct Powerplay is a great addition to Rocky Mountains range. Like the Altitude Powerplay, it is insane downhill being nimble and playful while still soaking up jumps and drops with ease. The 29” wheels mean it’s great for holding speed and carving corners! A great bike that can handle anything you can throw at it. However, if you were looking to do long, touring rides then the fully integrated battery may leave you stuck.
Need to know facts:
- Two spec levels available.
- RRP £4799.99 - £5800.00
- 29” Wheels.
- 140mm Travel.
- 632 watt/hour battery.
- Suits trail/enduro riding.
- Gravity orientated geometry.
