Marin Rift Zone XR EL Review - Alloy Frame, Bosch SX Power & More

Marin released their take on lightweight e-bikes last year in the form of the Rift Zone EL. We were fortunate enough to spend a bit of time on their XR build ahead of the launch, and were glad to include it in our shootout this year, as we had no doubt it was worthy of being in the mix. Could this Bosch SX-powered 140mm 29er light eMTB be the ultimate do-it-all machine? We were excited to put it head-to-head with 12 of the best Lightweight eMTBs in this year’s shootout. Written Review: https://theloamwolf.com/emtb/marin-rift-zone-el-xr-review-2025-lightweight-emtb-shootout/ 2025 eMTB Lite Shootout Landing Page: https://theloamwolf.com/emtb/the-2025-loam-wolf-lightweight-emtb-shootout/ We extend our sincere gratitude to our sponsoring partners for The Loam Wolf 2025 Lightweight eMTB Shootout. Without their support, this series wouldn’t have been possible. We’d love it if you could show your appreciation by checking them out:  @SchwalbeBikeTires  Provided reliable and comparable traction across all test bikes with the Magic Mary and Albert tires in the Gravity Radial casing.  @EnduraOfficial  Equipped us with excellent helmets and stylish apparel. Giro: Ensured our knees were safe with the Loam Knee Pads and feet secure on the pedals courtesy of the Chamber III and Latch shoes. Discover Klamath and Running Y Resort: Offered the perfect host destination with fun testing terrain and comfortable accommodation. ------------------------------------ Join our member platform to get access to exclusive discounts, giveaways and LIVE CHATS and more! https://bit.ly/3UVHjja https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUss9J3PKGw9c_hVt0SXw9Q/join ------------------------------------ Need Tools or a Workstand? Visit Feedback Sports and use code TLW-FBS-10 for 10% off your order: https://alnk.to/4BF2GoP ------------------------------------ Get your Loam Wolf gear here: https://store.theloamwolf.com 0:00 - Intro 00:46 - Sponsors 1:32 - Shreddit 2:03 - Battery Range Test 3:57 - Climbing The Marin Rift Zone ZR EL 6:30 - Descending Playfulness and Handeling 8:54 - Finish and Value 10:50 - What We Didn’t Like 12:15 - Who Is The Bike For 13:30 - Overall Score and Final Impressions