On this page
The Actofive Convertible Enduro eMTB Concept is a modular, future-proof mountain bike frame platform that can transform between a motorized e-bike and a pedal-powered gearbox mountain bike.
Developed by Dresden-based boutique manufacturer Actofive Cycles, the concept addresses expensive e-bike obsolescence by allowing riders to adapt their hardware as riding needs or technology change over time.
Modular Drive System
The core innovation is a modular bottom bracket interface that accepts completely different power transmissions using the same frame platform:
- eMTB Mode: Fits a Maxon AIR-S motor delivering 90 Nm of torque and 620W of peak power.
- Pedal-Powered Mode: Converts to a non-assisted bike featuring a Pinion C-Line or Smart.Shift gearbox combined with a Gates carbon belt drive.
CNC-Machined Aluminum Frame
Actofive uses its signature hollow, two-piece clamshell 7075-T6 aluminum CNC-machined construction for the frame.
Because adding a battery cutout typically compromises structural rigidity, Actofive applied topology optimization to tailor wall thicknesses along the load pathways of the open downtube.
eMTB Mode
The downtube features interchangeable covers:
- A slim, low-profile cover encloses a 400Wh internal battery.
- A deeper, extended cover accommodates a larger 600Wh battery.
Gearbox Mode
Removing the battery opens up a large internal downtube storage area, providing enough space for roughly two full-sized water bottles, tools, or spares.
Adjustable Suspension and Geometry
True to the brand's boutique racing heritage, the suspension and geometry are highly customizable:
- Adjustable Travel: Can be configured as a 170mm rear / 180mm front Enduro bike or changed via a lower shock mount to a 150mm rear / 170mm front Trail setup.
- Modular Pivot Technology (MPT): Uses swappable main pivot frame inserts, allowing riders to alter anti-squat, anti-rise, and overall axle-path characteristics.
- No Yoke Technology (NYT): Uses a splined main pivot axle to connect the chainstays, providing high rear-end stiffness without a traditional chainstay bridge.
- Multiple Wheel Sizes: Supports dual 29-inch wheels, a mixed 29-inch front / 27.5-inch rear mullet setup, or even a 32-inch front wheel configuration.
eMTB vs. Gearbox Configuration
| Feature | eMTB Configuration | Gearbox Configuration |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Unit | Maxon AIR-S (90 Nm / 620W) | Pinion C-Line / Smart.Shift |
| Drivetrain | Chain | Gates Carbon Belt Drive |
| Energy / Storage | 400Wh or 600Wh removable battery | Internal storage for about 2 water bottles |
| Rear Suspension | 4-bar Horst-link (150mm or 170mm) | 4-bar Horst-link (150mm or 170mm) |
| Frame Material | CNC-machined 7075-T6 aluminum | CNC-machined 7075-T6 aluminum |
Availability
The Actofive Convertible Enduro eBike remains an engineering concept, and production bike kits are not yet publicly available for sale. Rideable test prototypes are planned for real-world validation testing.
A Practical Alternative: Himiway D5 2.0 20"
The Actofive Convertible Enduro eBike shows an interesting direction for modular, highly customizable eMTBs, but it remains an engineering concept rather than a production bike that riders can currently buy.
For riders who like the idea of a compact, capable full-suspension eBike but want something available for everyday riding now, the Himiway D5 2.0 20" offers a more practical alternative.
Rather than focusing on racing-oriented modularity, the D5 2.0 20" combines 20 × 4.0-inch fat tires, full suspension with 90mm front and 100mm rear travel, and a 750W rear hub motor producing 90 Nm of torque. Its smaller wheels and low 16.9-inch standover height also make the bike easier to mount and maneuver, particularly for riders who find conventional full-size eMTBs cumbersome.
The D5 2.0 20" also provides up to 70 miles of pedal-assist range, a 440 lb total payload capacity, and switchable torque and cadence sensor modes. This makes it better suited to recreational trails, gravel roads, campground riding, neighborhood trips, and everyday exploration than the more specialized Enduro-focused Actofive concept.
In short, the Actofive Convertible Enduro is an intriguing look at where modular high-end eMTBs could be heading, while the Himiway D5 2.0 20" is worth considering for riders who want a compact, full-suspension fat-tire eBike they can actually ride today.
