If you’re looking at a Sinch e-bike for the first time, the model names don’t make the choice especially obvious. A Mode AT 2.5 and a Jaunt EZ 2.5 share some equipment, for example, but they feel quite different to ride.

We normally start with three questions: where will you ride, how upright do you want to sit, and how easy does the bike need to be to get on and off? Those answers usually point us towards one of the three families. The Mode AT is the sportier all-rounder, the Jaunt EZ is the relaxed step-through option, and the Force adds rear suspension for rougher ground.

After that, choosing a model is mostly about hills, ride length and whether you want to change gears yourself. You don’t necessarily need the biggest battery or the most expensive drivetrain. You need the bike that fits properly and has enough capability for the riding you’ll actually do.

Sinch is New Zealand owned, and its bikes are sensibly equipped for commuting, cycle trails and weekend riding. Lights, mudguards and a carrier are already fitted to most of the range, so you’re not buying a bare bike and then spending more to make it useful.

In This Guide

• Mode vs Jaunt vs Force
• The Sinch range at a glance
• Sinch Mode AT models
• Sinch Jaunt EZ models
• Sinch Force models
• Sinch model comparison
• Manual or automatic shifting
• Choosing a battery size
• Do you need full suspension?
• Chain Reaction picks
• Our thoughts on the Sinch range
• Frequently asked questions

Sinch Mode vs Jaunt vs Force
- Which Should You Choose?

Choose Mode AT if: You want a sportier all-rounder for commuting, fitness riding, gravel paths and weekend exploring.

Choose Jaunt EZ if: Easy mounting, an upright riding position and relaxed everyday comfort matter most.

Choose Force if: You regularly ride rougher surfaces or want the added comfort and control of full suspension.

The Sinch Range at a Glance

Sinch Mode AT
– The Versatile All-Rounder

The Mode AT is where we’d start if you want one e-bike to handle a bit of everything. It’s perfectly happy on a weekday commute, but the 29-inch wheels, wide tyres and 100mm suspension fork also give it enough ability for gravel paths, rail trails and weekend exploring.

Compared with the Jaunt EZ, the Mode has a slightly more active riding position. It still feels stable and approachable, but it suits riders who want to pedal with a little more purpose rather than sitting completely upright.

Integrated lights, mudguards, a kickstand and an MIK HD rear carrier are already fitted. That leaves you with a fairly simple choice: how much help do you need on hills, how far are you likely to ride, and do you want automatic gears?

Sinch Mode AT 1.5

The Mode AT 1.5 is the straightforward entry point to the range. Its Shimano EP500 mid-drive motor produces 60Nm of torque, paired with a removable 504Wh battery and conventional Shimano CUES 9-speed gearing.

That combination is a good match for commuting, local cycleways, rolling terrain and regular recreational rides. It still provides meaningful help on hills and into headwinds, but riders living in a very hilly area or planning long days away from a charger may be better served by the stronger 2.5.

For flatter or rolling routes, this is all the Mode many riders will need. The conventional Shimano gears are familiar, straightforward to service and designed to handle the extra load from a mid-drive motor. We’d only steer you higher in the range if your regular rides are properly hilly or you want more battery in reserve.

Sinch Mode AT 2.5

The Mode AT 2.5 steps up to Shimano’s stronger EP600 motor with 85Nm of torque and a larger 630Wh battery. Those two changes make a noticeable difference when the route includes proper hills, longer distances or a loaded rear carrier.

It also gains wider Maxxis Metropass AT tyres and a handlebar-operated dropper post. A dropper is useful on trails, but on an e-bike it also makes stopping and getting on or off easier because the saddle can be lowered without changing its correct pedalling height.

This is the Mode we expect to suit the widest range of riders. You get a worthwhile increase in climbing support and battery capacity without paying for automatic shifting. If your commute is hilly, you ride gravel regularly or you’re planning longer trail days, the 2.5 is the sensible step up.

Sinch Mode AT 3.5 Auto

The Mode AT 3.5 Auto is aimed at riders who like the versatile Mode platform but want less to think about while riding. Its electronic system can select gears automatically as your speed and pedalling change, while still allowing manual shifts when you want them.

Automatic shifting is particularly useful in stop-start traffic. The system can return to an easier gear as you slow down, helping you avoid pulling away from an intersection in a gear that is too hard. It also works well for riders who are new to cycling or simply prefer to concentrate on the road rather than their gear selection.

The Mode AT 3.5 Auto is not necessarily the better choice for every rider. If you are comfortable changing gears yourself, the Mode AT 2.5 may offer better value. The 3.5 Auto is worth the additional cost when automatic shifting makes riding noticeably easier and more enjoyable.

Sinch Jaunt EZ
– Easy Access and Everyday Comfort

The Jaunt EZ is the most approachable family in the Sinch range. Its full step-through frame removes the need to swing a leg over a high top tube, while the upright riding position gives you a clear view ahead and takes pressure off your hands and shoulders.

This is not only a bike for short trips around town. Depending on the model, the Jaunt has enough motor support, battery capacity and equipment for proper hills and long recreational rides. What separates it from the Mode is the way you sit on it and how easy it is to manage when starting and stopping.

If hip or knee movement is limited, you’re rebuilding confidence on a bike, or you simply prefer to sit more upright, the Jaunt EZ is usually the first Sinch we’ll put in front of you.

Sinch Jaunt EZ 1.5

The Jaunt EZ 1.5 combines the low step-through frame with a Shimano EP500 motor, 60Nm of torque, a removable 504Wh battery and Shimano CUES 9-speed gearing.

It is a sensible choice for local commuting, errands, cycleways and recreational rides over flatter or gently rolling terrain. The 100mm suspension fork and wide 27.5-inch tyres help smooth broken seal and uneven paths, while the fitted carrier, mudguards and lights make it useful from day one.

It’s a good, honest option for local commuting and relaxed everyday riding. If your usual route is reasonably flat and your rides aren’t especially long, there’s no need to buy more motor and battery than this.

Sinch Jaunt EZ 2.5

The Jaunt EZ 2.5 adds the 85Nm Shimano EP600 motor, a 630Wh battery, more capable tyres and a dropper post while retaining manual Shimano CUES gearing.

This is the Jaunt we would look at for riders who live in a hillier area, want to cover longer distances or expect to use the bike for both commuting and weekend trails. The stronger motor is useful when climbing with luggage, and the extra battery capacity gives you more freedom to use the higher assistance settings.

The dropper post deserves more attention than it usually gets. Being able to lower the saddle before you stop makes a relatively heavy e-bike much easier to manage. Press the lever again and it returns to the right pedalling height. It’s a small feature on paper, but one riders often appreciate straight away.

For most people wanting a Jaunt with manual gears, the 2.5 is our pick. It has enough support for hillier routes and enough battery for longer recreational rides without becoming unnecessarily complicated.

Sinch Jaunt EZ 3.5 Auto

The Jaunt EZ 3.5 Auto combines the 85Nm Shimano motor and 630Wh battery with electronic five-speed hub gearing. The system can change gears automatically, including selecting an easier gear as you slow for an intersection or stop.

Because the main gearing is contained within the rear hub, the riding experience is tidy and straightforward. This model is a good fit for riders who want a comfortable step-through bike but would rather let the system manage routine gear changes.

There are fewer gears than on the derailleur-equipped Jaunts, but that matters less when the motor is helping. The reason to choose this model is the calm, uncomplicated riding experience, especially through town or anywhere with plenty of stopping and starting.

Sinch Jaunt EZ 4

The Jaunt EZ 4 represents a substantial step up in motor and battery capability. Its Bosch Performance Line Sport system produces up to 90Nm of torque, while the removable 800Wh PowerTube battery provides generous capacity for longer and hillier rides.

It retains familiar Shimano CUES 10-speed manual shifting, making it a strong choice for riders who want the newer Bosch system without paying for automatic gears. An air-sprung suspension fork and suspension dropper post help with comfort, and the bike is compatible with the optional Bosch PowerMore 250 Range Extender if still more capacity is required later.

If you’re comfortable selecting your own gears, we think the Jaunt EZ 4 is the sweet spot at the Bosch end of the range. It has the same core motor strength and battery capacity as the 5 Auto, making it well suited to steep hills, loaded commuting and longer days out.

Sinch Jaunt EZ 5 Auto

The Jaunt EZ 5 Auto adds Shimano CUES Di2 automatic 10-speed shifting to the 90Nm Bosch motor and 800Wh battery. It can choose gears as conditions change, shift to a more suitable gear as you slow down and even change gear while you are coasting. Manual control remains available whenever you want it.

This is the most complete Jaunt for riders who want the bike to take care of as much as possible. It is particularly easy to live with in traffic or on routes involving frequent stops, while the large battery and strong motor mean it is not limited to urban riding.

The extra cost is in the drivetrain technology. If you enjoy choosing your own gears, the Jaunt EZ 4 is better value. If you want a low step-through bike that removes as much effort and decision-making as possible, the 5 Auto makes a convincing case for itself.

Sinch Force 
– Full Suspension for Rougher Riding

The Force family combines an easy-access step-through frame with front and rear suspension. That is an unusual and useful combination for riders who want more comfort on broken roads, corrugated gravel and uneven cycle trails without climbing over the high top tube normally found on a full-suspension e-bike.

There is a trade-off. Rear suspension adds weight, cost and another part to set up and maintain. If most of your riding is on smooth roads and sealed cycleways, a Jaunt is usually the simpler choice. If rough ground regularly leaves you feeling beaten up, the Force earns its place.

The Force EZ frame was developed in response to demand for a bike that combined easy step-through access with genuine rear suspension. It was not simply a rear shock added to an existing comfort bike; the frame required its own development to deal with the different loads created by that design.

Sinch Force EZ

The Force EZ uses a Bosch Performance Line CX motor with 85Nm of torque and a removable 625Wh PowerTube battery. An 11-speed Shimano LinkGlide drivetrain provides a wide range of manual gears, while front and rear suspension improve comfort and control on rougher ground.

This model sits in an interesting place in the range. It does not have the 800Wh battery of the Force EZ 4, but it remains a good choice for everyday transport, cycle trails and mixed-surface recreational riding. It is also compatible with the Bosch PowerMore 250 Range Extender.

We’d look at it if you want proven Bosch support and full suspension but don’t need the larger 800Wh battery fitted to the latest models.

Sinch Force EZ Belt

The Force EZ Belt replaces the conventional chain and derailleur with a Gates carbon belt and an Enviolo internally geared hub. The belt runs quietly, does not need chain lubricant and keeps much of the usual drivetrain mess away from clothing.

Enviolo automatic shifting does not work through a fixed set of numbered gears. Instead, it adjusts continuously to maintain the pedalling rhythm selected by the rider. Once set up correctly, it creates a very smooth experience, particularly for commuting and relaxed long-distance riding.

It isn’t the lightest or most conventional Force, and it won’t appeal to everyone. For a regular commuter or year-round rider, though, the quiet belt, clean operation and reduced day-to-day maintenance are benefits you’ll notice every week rather than features that only look good on a specification sheet.

Sinch Force EZ 4

The Force EZ 4 combines a 90Nm Bosch Performance Line Sport motor with an 800Wh PowerTube battery, 120mm of front travel and 100mm of rear travel. It uses a conventional Shimano CUES 10-speed drivetrain, giving the rider direct control over every shift.

For longer rides across mixed surfaces, the combination makes sense. The large battery gives you more freedom to use the higher assistance modes, while the suspension keeps the bike calmer and more comfortable when the route turns rough.

If you don’t need automatic shifting, this is our value pick among the latest Force models. You keep the same core Bosch power and 800Wh battery found on the 5 Auto, with familiar manual gears and a lower purchase price.

Sinch Force EZ 5 Auto

The Force EZ 5 Auto brings together the low step-through frame, full suspension, 90Nm Bosch motor, 800Wh battery and Shimano CUES Di2 automatic 10-speed shifting.

The appeal here is maximum comfort with very little to manage. The bike handles routine gear changes, finds an easier gear as you slow and can shift while coasting. You can still take over manually whenever you want to.

If you want the Force’s comfort but don’t want to think about gears, this is the one we’d put you on first. If changing gears doesn’t bother you, the Force EZ 4 offers most of the same riding capability for less.

Sinch E-Bike Comparison

Specifications can change between production runs. Check the individual product page or speak with the Chain Reaction team for the current build details.

Manual vs Automatic Shifting

Automatic shifting is useful, but it is not essential for every rider. A conventional drivetrain gives you direct control, is familiar to most cyclists and usually keeps the purchase price lower. It remains our first recommendation for someone who already changes gears confidently and does not see that as a chore.

Automatic shifting makes the most difference for riders who are new to cycling, ride in frequent stop-start traffic or simply want fewer controls to think about. Being placed in an easier gear when you pull away can also help riders with reduced leg strength or knee movement.

The best way to decide is to ride both. Some people take to automatic shifting immediately; others still prefer choosing the exact gear themselves.

How Much Battery Do You Actually Need?

Battery size is measured in watt-hours. A larger number generally gives you more potential riding time, but it does not translate into one guaranteed range figure.

Hills, headwinds, rider and luggage weight, tyre pressure, temperature, assistance level and how much effort you contribute all affect range. A smaller battery can cover substantial distances on flatter routes in a low support mode, while repeated steep climbs in maximum assistance will use a large battery much faster.

For regular local riding, the 504Wh models may be all you need. The 630Wh and 625Wh bikes provide more breathing room for hills and longer recreational rides. The newer 800Wh Bosch models suit riders planning longer routes, frequent climbing or regular use of the higher support levels.

Do not buy the biggest battery purely for the sake of it. Larger batteries add cost and weight. Choose enough capacity for your real riding, with a sensible margin for unexpected detours and changing conditions.

Do You Need Full Suspension?

Full suspension makes a real difference on corrugated gravel, broken tracks and rougher cycle trails. It can also help riders with back, hip or joint sensitivity stay comfortable for longer.

However, it does not automatically make the Force a better bike than the Mode or Jaunt. Rear suspension adds weight, cost and extra parts requiring setup and servicing. For sealed roads, smooth gravel paths and well-maintained cycleways, a front-suspension Mode or Jaunt will often be the more straightforward choice.

Choose the Force because your routes or comfort requirements justify it, not simply because it sits at the top of the range.

Chain Reaction Picks

After comparing the full range, these are the six models we’d put at the top of the shortlist. They cover the most common needs without simply pointing everyone towards the most expensive bike.

These are starting points rather than universal answers. A shorter, flatter commute may not require more than a 1.5, while automatic shifting or full suspension is worth paying for only when it makes a genuine difference to your riding.

Our Thoughts on the Sinch Range

What we like most about the Sinch range is that the differences between the bikes are useful rather than cosmetic. The Mode, Jaunt and Force aren’t simply three versions of the same frame. They suit different riding positions, confidence levels and surfaces, which gives us a sensible starting point when helping someone choose.

We also like that the everyday equipment is already there. Proper lights, mudguards, a carrier and a kickstand might not be exciting talking points, but they matter when the bike is being used several times a week. Shimano and Bosch motor systems also give us established service and diagnostic support in the workshop.

“The best Sinch isn’t automatically the one with the biggest battery or the most electronics. Get the frame style and riding position right first. After that, we can match the motor, battery and gears to the hills and distances you actually ride.”

- Chain Reaction workshop team

Our only caution is not to buy features because they sound impressive. Full suspension is worthwhile on rough ground, but it adds weight and servicing. Automatic shifting can make riding wonderfully simple, but a confident rider may be just as happy on a cheaper manual model. A test ride usually answers those questions more clearly than another hour comparing specifications online.

Why Buy Your Sinch from Chain Reaction?

Choosing the correct e-bike is about more than comparing motor torque and battery size. Frame style, fit, riding position and how the controls feel can make a bigger difference to your day-to-day enjoyment than moving one level higher in the range.

Chain Reaction is an authorised Sinch dealer. Every Sinch bike is professionally assembled and safety checked by our Christchurch workshop, with the motor system, brakes, gears, controls and fitted accessories checked before collection or dispatch.

We can help you compare the models, select the right size and set up the bike around the way you intend to ride. On full-suspension models, that also includes initial suspension adjustment rather than leaving you to work it out after the bike arrives.

• Authorised Sinch dealer
• Professional assembly and full workshop safety check
• Expert model selection, sizing and setup advice
• E-bike system and controls explained at handover
• Initial suspension setup where applicable
• Brakes professionally pre-bedded
• Lifetime workshop support from experienced mechanics
• Finance and WorkRide options available
• Nationwide New Zealand delivery

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Sinch e-bikes designed in New Zealand?

Sinch is a New Zealand-owned company, and its bikes are developed around local riding conditions and feedback. The range is designed to cover the mix of hills, commuting, recreational trails and changing surfaces commonly encountered by New Zealand riders.

What is the difference between Mode AT and Jaunt EZ?

The Mode AT has a more active, versatile feel and uses 29-inch wheels. The Jaunt EZ places greater emphasis on a low step-through frame, upright posture and easy day-to-day handling. Both can be used for commuting and recreational riding; the better choice comes down mainly to fit and riding position.

What is the difference between Jaunt EZ and Force?

The Jaunt EZ uses front suspension, while the Force has both front and rear suspension. The Force is more comfortable on rougher surfaces but is also heavier and more complex. Riders staying mainly on roads and smoother cycle trails may not need rear suspension.

Is automatic shifting worth it?

It can be. Automatic shifting is particularly useful for riders who want simpler controls or frequently stop and start. Confident cyclists who prefer choosing their own gear may get better value from a manual-shifting model.

Can the battery be removed for charging?

The integrated batteries on the current models covered in this guide are removable, allowing them to be charged either on or away from the bike. Always use the correct charger supplied for the battery system.

How far will a Sinch e-bike travel on one charge?

There is no single accurate range for every rider. Battery capacity, terrain, wind, temperature, assistance level, rider weight, luggage and tyre pressure all make a difference. We recommend discussing your normal route with us rather than relying on a best-case range claim.

Should I choose Shimano or Bosch?

Both are established e-bike systems with New Zealand support. Shimano equips the value-focused and mid-range Mode and Jaunt models, while the newer Bosch-equipped models provide up to 90Nm of torque and larger 800Wh batteries. The better choice depends on your route, budget and preferred features rather than the name on the motor alone.

Can I test ride a Sinch at Chain Reaction?

Contact us on 03 943 4925 before visiting so we can confirm which models and sizes are available to ride. A test ride is the best way to compare the Mode and Jaunt positions and decide whether automatic shifting or full suspension is worthwhile for you.

Need Help Choosing?

If you are still unsure, tell us where you ride, how far you normally travel, whether your route is hilly and what matters most to you - easy access, comfort, range or rough-surface capability. From there, we can narrow the range down quickly and help you avoid paying for features you are unlikely to use.

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