The bicycle market has rarely been in such disarray: disrupted supplies, parts shortages, inflation and cost explosions at all levels. At the same time, the buying mood throughout Europe is at an all-time low. The sparkling fireworks of bicycle innovations over the past two decades are now only flickering and smouldering in places. Nevertheless, there were some exciting new products on show at Eurobike, not least in the gearing sector: new hub gears from Kindernay, 3x9 and Revolute, as well as Shimano's new electric gears called Cues, designed for leisure and touring bikes - and the Smart Shift e-gearbox from Pinion.
In late autumn 2022, not a single test-ready example of these exciting components was available. There was also a problem with the innovative complete bikes. The promising new touring e-bike from Idworx was just as out of stock as a new edition of the first ever trekking bike, the Centurion Accordo. Or the e-bike with clutch motor from Lemo or Tout Terrain's first electric city tourer Camden. Or, or, or ... Often enough, the manufacturers didn't get beyond a few trade fair samples. But we're staying tuned and will be testing all these new products as soon as possible.
You don't have to buy a new bike every year. Nevertheless, it is worth reading the latest bike tests. It makes it clear where and how quickly the bicycle and its technology are developing from year to year. - Jochen Donner, test editor
The wheels in detail
It's still going to be exciting: an overview of the new bikes
However, what finally came into our hands is hardly less interesting: the Falconry Aristos R with printed titanium frame components was a technical highlight that also impressed our colleagues from TOUR and BIKE. Together with them, we discussed this lighthouse project in depth, measured it in the MYBIKE test cellar and, of course, rode it extensively. The top gravel bike model from US manufacturer Cannondale is also interesting in two respects. Topstone Carbon 1 RLE The almost maintenance-free suspension ensures an exceptionally comfortable ride. The bike is also equipped with a battery-powered lighting system that monitors traffic behind with a radar eye. A handlebar display signals whether and how fast vehicles are approaching from behind. After just a few hours, you really wouldn't want to be without this efficient safety technology.
A New city bike with Pinion drive and Gates belt from steel frame specialist Tout Terrain convincingly demonstrates how to build a durable and therefore sustainable bike. Also convincing all round is the Top model of the newly named Nulane series from Cube. It is a sporty gravel bike with straight handlebars and a successful mix of lightweight, robustness and riding dynamics, paired with the option of upgrading for everyday use. In addition to the performance of the frame and fork made of technically optimised carbon material, its remarkably low price is also appealing.
From the German Traditional manufacturer Diamant put the latest basic model of the Rubin series to the test: a versatile and affordable all-rounder for all days and occasions, whose developers also kept an eye on aesthetic design. And finally, we look at a time-honoured cargo concept: the retro brand Viva sent us a new edition of the baker's bike to testwith its traditional bicycle technology, steered front carrier and 20-inch front wheel attracts the attention of bike-loving passers-by.
First conclusion
This selection is certainly not representative, but as a colourful bouquet of different bike concepts, it conveys a picture of how diverse and broad the bike industry is even in years of shortage - even if perhaps not to the extent and depth that we have been accustomed to for years. Even among the sometimes neglected non-motorised bikes, model diversity and new developments are thriving, and not just in the high-priced luxury segment - even if there is more financial leeway there. Even aesthetics are not completely neglected. The test field thus offers a stimulating preview of the new 2023 vintage and promises an interesting bike year. The most important conclusion of our truly diverse test field was: A good portion of riding fun is included in the purchase price of each of these bikes.
