NCM Moscow vs Moscow M3 vs Moscow Plus: What's the Difference?
The NCM Moscow is one of the most asked-about e-bikes we sell. The catch is there are three of them: the Moscow, the Moscow M3 and the Moscow Plus. They look alike, they share a frame style, and the price gap makes people wonder what they're actually paying for.
Here's the straight answer.
What all three share
Every Moscow is a hardtail electric mountain bike with a tough 6061 aluminium frame, a Das-Kit 48V 250W rear hub motor limited to 25 km/h, a battery integrated into the frame that you can remove to charge anywhere, a 5V USB port for your phone, and six levels of assist. The high top tube keeps the frame stiff, so the power you put down goes to the road.
So the motor isn't the difference. The battery, brakes, gears and fork are.
Side by side
| Moscow | Moscow M3 | Moscow Plus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery | 48V 13Ah, 624Wh | 48V 12Ah, 576Wh (reinforced, lighter cover) | 48V 16Ah, 768Wh |
| Listed range | Up to 120 km | Up to 110 km | Up to 150 km |
| Brakes | Tektro mechanical disc | Tektro disc | Tektro hydraulic disc, 180mm rotors |
| Gears | Shimano Altus, 7 speed rear | Shimano Altus, 7 speed rear | Shimano Acera, 8 speed rear |
| Fork | Suntour XCT | Suntour XCT | Suntour XCM |
| Display | Das-Kit L7 LCD | Das-Kit L7 LCD | Das-Kit C7 high-contrast LCD |
| Charger | 2A | 2A | 3A fast charger |
| Tyres | Schwalbe Smart Sam | Arisun Mount Cronos | Schwalbe Smart Sam |
| Wheel sizes | 27.5" | 26", 27.5", 29" | 26", 27.5", 29" |
| Extras | Custom front light | Selle Royal saddle, brake sensors |
Range figures are NCM's best-case numbers. Real range depends on your weight, the hills, the wind and how much assist you use.
NCM Moscow: the one most people should start with
The Moscow is the original. The X15 motor makes 55Nm, the 624Wh battery is plenty for commuting and weekend rides, and at 28 kg it's a solid bike without being a tank. If your riding is bike paths, gravel and the odd fire trail, it does the job.
NCM Moscow M3: the updated design
The Moscow M3 uses a reinforced integrated battery with a lighter cover, which makes the battery easier to carry when you take it inside to charge. It also comes with a custom front light, so you're easier to spot in traffic. It comes in three wheel sizes, which matters more than people think: a shorter rider is far happier on the 26" and a taller rider on the 29".
NCM Moscow Plus: worth it if you ride far or ride hills
The Moscow Plus upgrades the parts you feel every ride. Hydraulic brakes with 180mm rotors take much less hand effort and stop harder, which you'll appreciate on a 28 kg bike going downhill. The 768Wh battery is the biggest of the three, and the 3A charger fills it faster. The 8 speed Acera drivetrain and XCM fork are both a step up, and the display can be read in direct sunlight.
So which one?
- Mostly flat commuting and leisure rides, watching the budget: Moscow.
- You need a specific wheel size, want a light fitted, or carry the battery inside a lot: Moscow M3.
- Long rides, steep hills, a heavier rider, or you just want the better brakes: Moscow Plus. The brakes alone justify it for a lot of riders.
Parts and servicing
All three run Das-Kit electrics. We stock Das-Kit spares and we work on NCMs all the time, so you're not on your own after the sale.
Come and compare them
2 Wingrove Street, Alphington. Call (03) 8542 9500 or email info@graceandpace.com.au.
