The Mandate Shift XT build is well-equipped, in one tester’s opinion.
An expert relishes the bottomless feel of the XT’s FOX Factory suspension, giving the confidence to take on steep descents.
A reviewer highlights the FOX Factory 38 150mm fork's (XT) “stellar” performance.
An expert praises the versatility of the Mandate Shift, which excels as a play bike.
One tester says the long, stable geo makes this bike a great climber, even on the most challenging trails.
The Shimano app offers lots of pedal assist adjustment options.
The frame has internal routing for Shimano Di2.

7 reasons not to buy

The interrupted seat-tube design severely limits dropper length (100mm-150mm, depending on frame size).
An expert says the short dropper travel could be a deal-breaker to recommending the bike.
One tester dents the rear rim on their first ride, blaming the "soft" rims.
An expert complains that the XT's tires lack grip and the casings are too thin.
The battery capacity of the XT and 12-speed Deore (630Wh) underwhelms one reviewer. The 11-speed build has an even smaller 503Wh battery.
Despite labeling the top build 'Mandate Shift XT,' Rossignol uses lower-tier SLX parts for the chain and cassette.
An expert says the Mandate Shift XT is not worth its full price tag.

Bottom line

The Rossignol Mandate Shift is a trail e-MTB available in three Shimano-equipped tiers: 11-speed Deore and 12-speed Deore or XT. The base build has an E7000 (60Nm) motor and a 503Wh battery; the others have EP800 (85Nm) motors and 630Wh batteries. The bike performs well in some areas but falls short in others, most notably the limited dropper travel. This, among other issues, highlights Rossignol's inexperience in bike design and manufacturing. Given that, the sole expert reviewer admits it's hard to recommend the Mandate Shift, especially at full price.