Help! emtb frame size for 176 cm person

[Beyonder]

Hello, I'm considering buying a new e-bike, but I'm having trouble deciding on the frame size. Based on the size charts, I'm right between M and L (I'm 176 cm with a balanced body ratio). I'm currently looking at the REACTION HYBRID RACE 2023 (M size frame) and the CUBE REACTION PRO 2023 (also M size, as there's no L available). For reference, I currently ride a REACTION HYBRID PERFORMANCE 2021 with an L-size frame, which feels alright. However, I noticed something odd: my current bike has a 418mm reach (according to website) , but the new Cube models list a 444mm reach for the M size on their website. This doesn't quite make sense to me. Am I missing something? I'm curious about the pros and cons of choosing an M frame over an L for an eMTB at my size. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
P.S. I'm also planning to use it for long-distance road tours, so I'm wondering which frame size would be more comfortable for my body after many hours of riding

 

[Az.]

I currently ride a REACTION HYBRID PERFORMANCE 2021 with an L-size frame, which feels alright.

This one?

Cube Reaction Performance 500 2021 – e-bikeshop.co.uk

The all new Cube Reaction Hybrid Performance 500 2021 Bosch powered electric bike for tarmac, tracks and trails.

www.e-bikeshop.co.uk

Nice bike. Why did you decide to buy a new one if you don't mind me asking?

 

[Beyonder]

This one?

Cube Reaction Performance 500 2021 – e-bikeshop.co.uk

The all new Cube Reaction Hybrid Performance 500 2021 Bosch powered electric bike for tarmac, tracks and trails.

www.e-bikeshop.co.uk

Nice bike. Why did you decide to buy a new one if you don't mind me asking?

Yes, that's what I have. Since I found a buyer who offered me a good price, I decided to sell it and buy a better, more powerful bike

 

[Az.]

I would go with bigger frame for cross country/trekking and smaller for downhill/technical ride, but at the end of the day it is you who must feel comfortable on your bike.

 

[soundwave]

ebike

 

[matthewslack]

I suspect if the answer is not clear to you, then it doesn't matter in your case. I would err towards the larger option for me, but I am L / XL at 183cm and long legs.

As long as the saddle goes high enough, the reach can be tuned with stem change if need be. For longer rides you might find you need swept back handlebars for wrist comfort, which changes things rather more.

 

[chris_n]

I would go with bigger frame for cross country/trekking and smaller for downhill/technical ride, but at the end of the day it is you who must feel comfortable on your bike.

That is how I would do it too. In answer to the OP's question on the reach modern MTBs tend to have longer reach and more relaxed geometry to help you get your weight forward for more front wheel grip. How you feel about that for longer rides I don't know, many on here prefer a more upright position (not me though ).