We test our batteries in real-world conditions to determine potential range per charge. It’s an ongoing process that we insist on to improve our designs and determine what kind of variables effect range.
For example, we rode laps at one of our favourite proving grounds aboard a Sight VLT until the fully-charged battery was totally depleted.
NOT a laboratory setting - Real rider, real trail, real results.
Set on the Eco mode, he was able to cover 2100m of elevation over 38km before that battery was empty.
With the larger batteries, he would have covered proportionally more ground on those same trails in the same conditions:
| Battery Capacity Wh | 540 | 720 | 900 |
| Elevation m/ft* | 2100/6890 | 2800/9180 | 3500/11480 |
| Distance km/mi* | 38/23.5 | 50/31 | 63/39 |
*Let’s be clear: this was a demanding BC ride, under a fit, accomplished rider who can dish out upwards of 300W of power over a sustained period. As with all the battery-powered stuff we have in our lives these days, individual results will vary depending on a number of variables, including:
Battery capacity
Assist mode selected
Bike + Rider + Battery system mass
Rider output
Riding conditions
Amount of climbing/elevation change
Ambient temperature
And SO many others…
How much do they weigh?
540Wh = 3190g
720Wh = 3880g
900Wh = 4570g
Thanks to the 380g weight savings from the Shimano EP8 motor, the 540Wh and 720Wh batteries allow for a lighter overall package than previous VLT generations.
Additionally, the 900Wh battery provides the largest battery capacity in the industry without the need for a Range Extender battery pack – and it is almost 2000g lighter than a Range Extender-equipped Gen 2 model – leaving room for a full-size water bottle (or two on L and XL Sight VLT and Range VLT!) in your water bottle cage.