Honda has unveiled its first high-end electric mountain bike, the RN0, at the EICMA 2026 exhibition in Milan. Jointly developed with German high-end e-MTB manufacturer ROTWILD, the new model marks Honda’s official entry into the premium electric mountain bike market. Weighing approximately 24 kg, the multi-role e-bike draws upon Honda’s motorcycle chassis development experience, incorporating a proprietary carbon monocoque frame and a distinctive gull-arm swingarm.
Component Specifications and Drivetrain
The Honda RN0 is equipped with 160 mm FOX 36 FLOAT Factory Kashima front suspension paired with a FOX FLOAT X Factory Kashima rear shock. It utilizes DT Swiss H1900 SPLINE wheels in a mullet setup, featuring a 29-inch front wheel and a 27.5-inch rear wheel, alongside Shimano DEORE XT four-piston brakes. The drivetrain features Shimano’s 2.3 kg drive unit, which delivers up to 100 Nm of torque and a 750-watt maximum output, powered by a 720 Wh battery.
Smart Features and Connectivity
The e-bike includes Shimano’s AUTO ASSIST system to automatically adjust motor assistance based on terrain and rider input, as well as AUTO SHIFT for gear management. An Assist Carryover function continues power delivery briefly after pedaling stops to assist over technical obstacles. A 2.2-inch color display is integrated directly into the top tube, complemented by USB-C charging and Shimano app connectivity for motor adjustments and electronic locking.
Market Availability and Relevance for European Buyers
Unveiled at the Milan show, the RN0 connects directly to European engineering collaboration through its development with Germany’s ROTWILD. Honda has not yet announced pricing or exact regional release dates for the RN0. For European buyers following the premium e-MTB segment, the model represents a direct fusion of automotive-grade chassis design and advanced Shimano e-bike architecture.
Practical Takeaway
The Honda RN0 combines a 720 Wh battery, Shimano drive unit, and high-end FOX suspension into a 24 kg carbon frame. Buyers should note that official pricing and availability details remain unannounced by Honda.
Source: Original report