Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite Review
- Price: $7,799
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: 29″/ 27.5″Aluminum
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: It has excellent geometry and is an electronic enduro machine with consistent, reliable performance.
What we don’t like about it: It’s too expensive to fit everyone’s buying budget.
Rating: (4.9/5)
The Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite shares DNA with the Nukeproof Mega, a race car that has won multiple endurance racing world series championships.
However, it has been upgraded with the Shimano STEPS EP8 motor, enhancing its climbing and long-distance riding capabilities.
In the following sections, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite.
In the latter part of this article, we will also compare it to several other top bicycle models. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, you can follow us.
Riding Experience
The Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite has excellent geometry and is an electronic endurance racing machine with stable and reliable performance. It handles both climbing and descending with ease.
To test it out, I took the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite to a nearby mountain bike park. I booked a hotel in the area using IHG in advance, planning to stay and ride for a couple of days.
The mountain bike park in my area is a modified hill with gravel roads, loose terrain, winding downhill trails, berms, and some jump ramps of that style.
Climbing
When I started climbing from the trailhead towards the mountaintop, all I had to do was engage the electric assist of the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite. Its Shimano STEPS EP8 motor provides me with a maximum torque of 85Nm. This makes climbing a breeze for this full-suspension bike, and the powerful and smooth power output allows me to ascend easily.
Furthermore, the excellent geometry of the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite helps me maintain a good riding position during the climb, making each pedal stroke firm and stable.
Lastly, this bike is equipped with front and rear Maxxis Assegai WT 3C MaxxGrip 2.5-inch tires. They provide excellent traction, allowing the bike to grip the ground firmly and transfer power efficiently while climbing.
In conclusion, the climbing performance of the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite is undeniably excellent, thanks to the support of the Shimano STEPS EP8 motor.
Descending
Now, let’s talk about the descending performance of the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite. Despite its heavy frame, it exhibits astonishing strength due to its excellent geometry and carefully selected components.
Firstly, when I was descending rapidly on some gravel roads, the Fox 38 Float fork and Fox Float X2 rear shock provided 170mm of suspension travel both at the front and rear. Combined with the large 29-inch front wheel, it delivered a fast and smooth descending experience.
When I landed after a big drop, the strong support of the Fox suspension helped absorb most of the impact, allowing for a smoother and safer landing.
Furthermore, the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite’s built-in chain guide and Shimano SLX M7100 rear derailleur ensured that the chain would not come off even during extremely bumpy sections.
Additionally, the 27.5-inch rear wheel equipped on the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite allowed for agile maneuvering on continuous winding trails.
The Shimano SLX M7120 brakes, paired with Brakco (front 220mm / rear 200mm) rotors, provided ample stopping power for every deceleration before entering corners.
Specification
The Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite comes in 5 sizes (S-XXL) of aluminum alloy frames with internal cable routing, providing a cleaner and neater appearance.
The combination of a front 29-inch and rear 27.5-inch wheel design ensures both strong traction and agile handling on narrow trails.
The frame is made of hydroformed 6061 aluminum alloy, with space for the Shimano battery in the downtube and a Shimano STEPS EP8 motor integrated into the bottom bracket shell. The battery is removable and compatible with the Shimano 504Wh battery.
Furthermore, the rear suspension has been optimized to be super supple at the top of the travel while maintaining strong support throughout the rest of the travel.
Video
Other Versions
The Nukeproof Megawatt 297 has excellent geometry and is an electric endurance race machine. It has impressive capabilities for both uphill and downhill riding. However, its high price makes it difficult to fit everyone’s budget.
To address this, we offer another version of a full-suspension endurance e-bike with the same frame and motor from the same brand, providing similar powerful riding performance at a more affordable price point.
NUKEPROOF MEGAWATT 297 COMP
The Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Comp shares the same aluminum alloy frame and high-performance Shimano STEPS EP8 motor as the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite.
Additionally, they are equipped with the RockShox Domain suspension fork and RockShox Super Deluxe Select R rear shock. The suspension system delivers reliable performance and excellent support, absorbing most of the vibrations during descents.
In terms of the drivetrain, they feature components from Shimano Deore M6100, which ensures smooth gear shifting. It is also a cost-effective drivetrain option within the Shimano series.
For the braking system, SRAM DB8 brakes with a front 220mm/rear 200mm rotor are employed. They are equally dependable and allow for quick stops whenever necessary.
Next, we will provide a detailed list of specifications for the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite, as well as some other full-suspension endurance e-bikes from different brands at similar price points for your reference.
What do we like about it?
- It features a downtube with a bottle cage mount and top tube mounting points, allowing for carrying items during long-distance rides.
- The internal cable routing throughout the bike gives it a cleaner and neater appearance, and it also simplifies the cleaning process.
- The built-in chain guide design ensures chain stability and prevents it from dropping during intense downhill riding.
- The chainstay protector reduces noise caused by chain slapping during riding.
- The Megawatt offers a wide range of sag (30%-35%) to allow riders to customize the bike according to their preferences.
- The Shimano STEPS EP8 motor provides excellent engagement, powerful output, and a very natural riding feel.
What don’t we like about it?
- The price is high, making it difficult for budget-conscious riders to make a purchase decision.
FAQ
- What is the weight of this bike?
The weight is 24.6Kgs Medium (Tubeless).
- What wheelsets does this bike use?
The front wheelset is the Nukeproof Horizon V2, 29″, 6 Bolt, 110x15mm, and the rear wheelset is the Nukeproof Horizon V2, 27.5″, 6 Bolt, Shimano Microspline Driver, 148x12mm.
- How to choose the right size?
We provide a size chart for reference. However, the best way to find the most suitable size is to try it out for yourself.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’3″ – 5’7″ | S |
| 5’6″ – 5’10” | M |
| 5’9″ – 6’0″ | L |
| 6’0″ – 6’4″ | XL |
| 6’3″ – 6’7″ | XXL |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Alloy, 170mm Travel, custom triple butted hydro-formed tube set, internal Battery, Internal cable routing through downtube. Enduro Bearings, Boost 148mm rear axle spacing, 3D contoured Rubber frame protection, Shimano STEPS compatible.BB Standard: STEPS, Press FitColor: Elite |
| Fork | Fox 38 Float, 29″, Performance Elite Series, Grip 2 Damper, 170mm, 44mm Offset, BOOST, 1.5T Steerer, 68mm Crown, Black |
| Rear Shock | Fox Float X2, Performance Series, EVOL, 2 Position lever, Custom LCL LRL tune, 230×62.5mm, Bearing End, 2x 0.3 spacer fitted. |
| Bottom Bracket | STEPS, press-fit |
| Headset | Nukeproof Neutron E-Bike Block Set, sealed bearings, ZS56/28.6 – ZS66/40 |
| Stem | Nukeproof Horizon, 45mm, Black |
| Handlebar | Nukeproof Horizon V2, Width – S/M: 12mm Rise Width – 780mm, L/XL/XXL: 25mm Rise Width – 800mm |
| Saddle | Nukeproof, Black |
| Seatpost | Brand X Ascend internal with Brand-X Remote lever, S:125mm drop; M:150mm drop; L:170mm drop; XL/XXL:200mm drop |
| Grips | Nukeproof Sam Hill Signature |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano SLX M7100, SGS 12-Speed, Shadow Plus |
| Crank | Shimano EM600, 165mm, 34t, 52mm chainline |
| Shifters | Shimano SLX M7100-IR, 12-speed Rapidfire Plus, I-Spec EV |
| Cassette | Shimano SLX M7100-12, 12-Speed (HYPERGLIDE+), 10-51T |
| Chain | Shimano SLX M7100 HG 12-speed Inc Quicklink |
| Chain Guide | Shimano EM800 drive unit mount |
| Brakes | Shimano SLX M7120, 4 Pot Brake, Metallic Pads |
Wheels
| Rims | Front Wheel:Nukeproof Horizon V2, 29″”, 6 Bolt, 110x15mm // Rear Wheel Nukeproof Horizon V2, 27.5″”, 6 Bolt, Shimano Microspline Driver, 148x12mm |
| Tires | Front: Maxxis Assegai 29 “x2.5 WT 3C MaxxGrip/DD/TR, Rear: Maxxis Assegai 27.5 “x2.5 WT 3C MaxxGrip/DD/TR |
| Disk Rotors | Brakco 220mm Front / 200mm Rear |
Electric Components
| Motor | Shimano STEPS EP8, 250W, 85Nm |
| Battery | Shimano E8036, 630Wh |
| Remote | Shimano EM800 with Shimano EM800-L Assist Switch |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click view | Wheelset | Frame material | Brake Type | Drivetrain |
| Specialized Turbo Levo SL Comp | Click View | 150mm rear, 150mm front | Aluminum | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 12 |
| Trek Rail 9.7 Gen 4 | Click View | 150mm rear, 160mm front | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 12 |
| Orbea WILD M20 20mph | Click View | 160mm rear, 160mm front | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 12 |
| YT Industries Decoy CORE 4 MX | Click View | 165mm rear, 170mm front | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 12 |
Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite vs Specialized Turbo Levo SL Comp
They are both excellent representatives in the field of E-MTB from their respective brands.
When it comes to the most crucial part of an E-MTB, the motor, they both use high-performance motors, namely the Shimano STEPS EP8 and the Specialized SL 1.1 custom lightweight motor. However, the former has a larger battery capacity, providing a longer range.
The Nukeproof is equipped with a Fox 38 Float fork, which has a larger diameter and longer travel compared to the FOX RHYTHM 34 fork on the Specialized. This provides better support during intense descents and enables the handling of more challenging terrain.
In terms of drivetrain components, the Shimano SLX M7100 on the Nukeproof and the SRAM NX Eagle on the Specialized are both excellent choices. The former offers smoother shifting, while the latter provides a more crisp and precise feel.
As for the brake components, both bikes feature powerful braking capabilities with the Shimano SLX M7120 and the SRAM Guide R brakes. However, the former offers a softer and more refined feel, while the latter provides a more direct and aggressive response.
In conclusion, between these two full-suspension endurance e-bikes, I would recommend the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite. It has a better range and higher-grade components.
Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite vs Trek Rail 9.7 Gen 4
The Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite and the Trek Rail 9.7 Gen 4CF 9 are both highly capable E-MTBs that appear to be quite similar. They feature the Shimano STEPS EP8 and Bosch Performance Line CX motors, respectively. These motors are known for their reliability and long-lasting battery life.
Both bikes utilize components from the Shimano SLX M7100 drivetrain. However, the Trek Rail 9.7 Gen 4CF 9 uses a Shimano XT M8100 rear derailleur, which provides stronger tension and more reliable performance.
In terms of braking components, the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite is equipped with the Shimano SLX M7120 brakes, which offer superior braking power and faster response compared to the Shimano M6120 brakes on the Trek Rail 9.7 Gen 4.
When it comes to the suspension system, the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite’s Fox 38 Float fork provides better support, making it more suitable for handling complex and intense rides. On the other hand, the Trek Rail 9.7 Gen 4 features the RockShox Domain RC fork, which offers better sensitivity in the initial travel, resulting in a smoother and more stable ride.
In conclusion, the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite excels in intense downhill rides, while the Trek Rail 9.7 Gen 4 is more suitable for smooth and cross-country riding.
Learn More: Is Trek Rail 9.7 Worth Buying? [Trek Rail 9.7 Review]
Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite vs Orbea WILD M20 20mph
Next, let’s compare these two bikes. In terms of the motor, the former uses the Shimano STEPS EP8, while the latter is equipped with the BOSCH Performance Line CX BDU3741. The latter has a larger battery capacity, allowing for longer rides.
In terms of suspension, Nukeproof employs the Fox 38 Float fork, which provides better support compared to the RockShox 35 Silver TK fork on the latter. It can handle large drops more effectively. The latter, however, excels in sensitivity and can absorb more vibrations on rough gravel surfaces.
Regarding the drivetrain components, the former utilizes the Shimano SLX M7100 components, falling slightly behind in the rear derailleur selection compared to the Shimano XT M8100 on the latter. Other drivetrain components are of higher levels compared to the latter.
Finally, in the braking department, these two bikes are equipped with the Shimano SLX M7120 and SRAM DB8 Black brakes, respectively, both offering powerful braking performance and reliability.
In conclusion, both of these full-suspension endurance e-bikes are excellent choices, and selecting either one would be a good decision.
Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite vs YT Industries Decoy CORE 4 MX
These two bikes have similar suspension travel. In terms of motor selection, both bikes utilize the excellent and reliable Shimano STEPS EP8 motor.
For the suspension fork, they both feature a 170mm travel FOX 38 fork. However, the latter has the advantage of Kashima coating, which provides better lubrication.
In the drivetrain department, the YT bike is equipped with the Shimano XT M8100, which is one level higher than the Shimano SLX M7100 on the Nukeproof bike. This results in higher transmission efficiency and stronger rear derailleur tension.
Lastly, in terms of brakes, the Shimano SLX M7120 on the former bike offers a lighter and smoother operating experience, while the SRAM CODE RSC on the latter provides a more direct and aggressive feel.
Therefore, both of these bikes are excellent choices. When it comes to choosing between them, you can consider which brand’s paint job and aesthetics you prefer.
Summary
Above is my ride review of the Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Elite. In our opinion, it is a high-quality full-suspension endurance e-bike with powerful overall performance. That’s why we give it a rating of 4.9.
Of course, if you want to learn about other full-suspension endurance e-bikes, we also review a wide range of bikes with different prices and interesting features. Feel free to check out our other reviews.
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