New Cowboy Cross and Cowboy Cross ST: Where exactly is everywhere?

It seems that one urban ebike expert after another is discovering a penchant for everything that awaits beyond the tarmac. A few days ago, Ampler presented a trekking-compatible version of the Curt model. Now an even more prominent name follows with Cowboy. Until now, this name has exclusively stood for stylish, lighter ebikes that are at home in the city. With the Cowboy Cross, the Brussels-based brand is venturing out of this niche for the first time. In doing so, at least two features that previously applied to every ebike from the manufacturer have fallen by the wayside.

“We have innovated around the riders’ wants and needs by increasing range, adaptability and adding suspension. Our riders can go further and think bigger in terms of where their bike can take them. Cross brings the benefits of owning a Cowboy to a whole new audience; adventurers who want more versatility, more fitness, more freedom.”
Adrien Roose, co-founder and CEO of Cowboy

Co-founders Adrien Roose (left) and Tanguy Goretti from Cowboy

A bit of everything

Whatever you think of Cowboy’s idea, it has been consistently realised. The new Cross has fully earned its categorisation by Cowboy as an all-road bike. Completely changed geometry. Suspension fork. Suspension seat post. Wide tyres. More battery capacity. These ingredients were definitely needed to turn a cowboy as we knew it into a … hm, let’s say all-terrain bike. It’s a little too bulky for a trekking ebike and offers too few options for carrying luggage. At the same time, the suspension travel of 40 millimetres for the suspension fork and seat post is not enough to call it an e-mountainbike. Not even a hardtail.

It may not be possible to categorise the bikes so clearly. What is certain, however, is that Cowboy had a more relaxed cycling experience in mind when the frame geometry for the newcomer took shape. To be correct, one should speak of two newcomers. After all, the manufacturer is putting the Cowboy on the road in two forms. Firstly, with a step-over frame, where you have to swing your leg over the top tube when getting on the bike. On the other hand, there is a step-through frame, i.e. with a low entry.

Focus on comfortable riding

For a comparison of the geometries, we use the Cowboy Cruiser and the Cowboy Cruiser ST as a reference. On its website, the manufacturer specifies the geometry data of the four bikes in varying degrees of detail. This makes an exact comparison difficult. It is at least possible to judge the seating position, as the stack and reach are listed in each case. The ratio between the two values indicates how upright you will be sitting on the bike. The lower the value, the more stretched out, the more aerodynamic the resulting position. With the Cowboy Cruiser, the ratio is around 1.41. That of the Cowboy Cross can be rounded to 1.60. The Cross is also around ten centimetres longer overall. As a result, you adopt a more relaxed position on the ebike and the longer wheelbase gives you a smoother ride at higher speeds.

The difference between the Cowboy Cruiser ST and Cowboy Cross ST is significantly smaller. The stack/reach ratio for both is around 1.77. This should feel very similar when you take a seat on one or the other. Once again, the Cross proves to be longer, which is largely due to the differently designed rear triangle. Basically, the geometries of the two cross frames reflect the focus on riding ebikes for longer. In addition, the seating positions, together with the suspension system, are designed to offer you as much riding comfort as possible when the ground gets rougher.

New dimensions for forks and tyres

Cowboy uses an upside-down suspension fork for the suspension system. As the name suggests, the suspension element, including the seals, is located at the bottom instead of the top. As a result, it is more reminiscent of a rigid fork in its visual simplicity where it enters the head tube. This emphasises the urban design of the Cross, which is based on the other Cowboy models. Especially as the suspension travel, as mentioned, is just 40 millimetres. The fork can defuse smaller edges, cobblestones and a kerb that is not too high. However, this is not enough for real off-road capability. It fits into the picture that the tyres are also clearly more suitable for riding on asphalt and other sealed surfaces. Their tread minimises rolling resistance more than it offers traction on loose surfaces. Nevertheless, thanks to their width of 60 millimetres, they can absorb many a bump. Incidentally, the suspension fork and tyres are both made exclusively by suppliers. Even when asked, Cowboy did not want to reveal who they are working with.

Direct push

When it comes to the motor and drive, the manufacturer relies on tried and tested components. The Cowboy Cross is powered by the familiar rear hub motor. With its 250 watts, it supports you in continuous operation up to the usual 25 kilometres per hour. It develops a maximum torque of 45 Newton metres. As the power acts directly on the rear wheel axle, this results in powerful propulsion. The motor regulates this with the help of a torque sensor. If more assistance is required, for example on a climb or when riding into a headwind, it registers this and gives everything it’s got.

You have to do the same. On this model, Cowboy also dispenses with gears. Instead, you will encounter a singlespeed system with a carbon belt with a ratio of 60 teeth to 21 teeth. As a rather large gear ratio, this is specifically designed for flat terrain. It is therefore worth keeping an eye on the battery charge level at all times. If it unexpectedly drops to zero and you still have a longer or hilly route ahead of you, it can quickly become a sweaty matter.

More energy needed

To take the sting out of this situation, Cowboy has significantly increased the battery. The capacity of 540 watt hours is 50 per cent higher than the previous maximum value. According to Cowboy, the new energy storage unit is based on 30 type 21700 cells. Bosch, for example, uses the same size for its CompactTube 400. In future, the range will increase to distances of 60 kilometres up to 120 kilometres.

However, the truth is that the Cross alone requires a larger battery due to its higher weight. While a Cruiser and Cruiser ST weigh just over 19 kilograms, the Cross and Cross ST weigh in at 27.9 kilograms and 26.5 kilograms respectively. This is probably too heavy for most of you to shoulder the bikes so that you can carry them into your flat or a bike cellar. However, in an urban environment, this is part of the plan on a regular basis. In addition to the sheer weight of the bikes, there may also be panniers for the excursion. And in general, tours with such a model can be longer than with a conventional urban ebike. Cowboy certainly wanted to cater for this.

Speaking of luggage. For the first time ever, a model from the manufacturer features a rear carrier as standard. It is even permanently integrated into the frame and can carry a load of 27 kilograms. This would theoretically make it very suitable for use with a child seat. Unfortunately, Cowboy does not use any of the standard adapter systems such as MIK HD, Racktime, etc.

The rear rack is integrated into the frame.

Typical cowboy also comes with disadvantages

Similar to the rear rack, there are other small disappointments here and there. It starts with the frame size. As with the rest of the range, Cowboy again limits itself to one size per frame shape. Each size is intended to cover a range of 30 or 40 centimetres in body length. In view of the fact that the cockpit is not adjustable, these ranges seem rather optimistic. You can only adjust the height of the seatpost for customisation. Alternative stem lengths, stem angles, handlebar widths or handlebar shapes are not available as options. Anyone who likes to go on longer tours on their bike knows how essential it is to have a perfectly adjusted position on the bike. This can be realised for a smaller group of people on the Cross than Cowboy suggests. Especially for longer tours, it would be great to attach a bottle cage. Since there are no suitable mounts, however, nothing can be attached.

From a German perspective, it also hurts that the Cowboy Cross does not have a lighting system installed as standard that complies with the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO). If you want to avoid a fine, you have to use additional lights – either plug-in or permanently installed. Cowboy usually includes a corresponding set of battery lights with the ebikes.

With the oval front light in the head tube, the new model looks like a typical Cowboy.

Exemplary blending of hardware and software

The front and rear lights integrated into the frame can only be switched on and off using the app. In fact, the app plays such a central role on hardly any other ebike as it does with this manufacturer. This is illustrated already by the fact that there is no power button on the bike itself. As a result, you activate the ebike system via your smartphone. You also need the device for all other functions and settings. To prevent this strong fixation on the app and smartphone from going belly-up, Cowboy has been installing a stem with the option of inductive charging and a Quad Lock mount that securely holds your smartphone. If you go for it, you can enjoy an absolutely coherent system in which many details interlock smoothly. However, this also requires two conditions. Firstly, your smartphone can be charged inductively. There is no wired diversions. And secondly, your device must be in a Quad Lock case when cycling.

New functions have been added to the app with the launch of the Cowboy Cross. The “Live Challenges” are designed to encourage you to ride the Cross in a fun way. You can secure various rewards on several levels.

“At Cowboy, we’re not just selling bikes; we’re selling fun. Our commitment to rider-centric innovation is focused on amplifying this enjoyment.”
Tanguy Goretti, co-founder and CTO, Cowboy

With “Check My Bike”, on the other hand, you get a diagnostic tool. The app analyses selected ride data and assesses whether the bike is still working as it should or needs a service. Of course, the functions already introduced are also available for the Cross and Cross ST:

• Find My Bike: GPS tracking via SIM card, Bluetooth scanner to locate the bike within a building
• Theft alarm
• Safety alerts: Warning of potential danger spots, currently available for ten European cities
• Automatic crash detection
• Turn-by-turn navigation via Google Maps
• Share My Ride: share live position with friends, receive reactions from friends via tracking link
• Motor assistance: choice between Adaptive and Eco
• Air quality levels
• Calories burned
• Rider profile
• Personal records

Safety, fun and motivation are three central motifs of the new functions for the Cowboy Connect App.

Quick decisions are rewarded

Cowboy is currently offering the Cross in the three colours Lava, Moss and Mushroom at a reduced early bird price of 3,499 euros. However, according to the manufacturer, this is only valid for a limited time. When we asked how long this period would be, Cowboy replied that it was still open. However, the price is not valid forever. So, if you’re interested, it’s better to buy it today than tomorrow. The model is expected to cost 3,999 euros later.

Cowboy Cross at a glance

• Frame: Aluminium 6061
• Frame size: 165 to 195 cm – Cross ST: 155 to 195 cm
• Motor: rear hub motor, 45 Nm, 250 watts
• Battery: 540 Wh
• Drivetrain: Singlespeed, carbon belt
• Brakes: Tektro
• Weight: Cross: 27.9 kg – Cross ST: 26.5 kg
• Maximum permitted total weight: 140 kg
• Price: 3,499 euros early bird discount, later 3,999 euros
• Colours: Lava, Moss, Mushroom

Pictures: Cowboy SA