Classic with an update: Simplon presents new trekking e-bike Kagu for 2025
Marc Strucken
· 18.03.2025
With the new Kagu :e for 2025, Simplon presents another (e-)bike in its ever-growing series of new products. The latest model of the versatile trekking e-bike has been designed primarily for multi-day tours and urban use.
According to the manufacturer, the aluminium frame with low step-through, the comfortable geometry and the large-volume 27.5-inch tyres with a width of 60 mm should ensure maximum comfort and riding enjoyment. A special feature is the high maximum system weight of 180 kg, which, in combination with the optional luggage rack solutions, also allows the bike to be used as a light cargo bike.
Simplon Kagu :e - The latest generation of drive technology from Bosch
Simplon relies on proven Bosch technology for the drive. The Simplon Kagu :e is equipped with the fifth-generation Performance Line CX motor. This delivers a maximum torque of 85 Nm and a peak power of 600 watts. The assistance can be up to 340 per cent of the rider's own power.
According to the manufacturer, the improvements over the previous model include better responsiveness, optimised power delivery, reduced noise and greater overall efficiency. Simplon emphasises the new, lighter PowerTube batteries with 600 and 800 Wh as a special feature.
Flexible battery concept
A key feature of the Simplon Kagu :e is the modular battery concept. Thanks to the identical installation length of the new Bosch PowerTube batteries, riders can choose between a 600 Wh and an 800 Wh battery. This allows customisation to suit individual needs: Either a slightly lighter, more manoeuvrable bike with the 600 Wh battery or maximum range with the 800 Wh battery.
Simplon has also completely redesigned the battery cover. It now has a circumferential rubber lip, which should reliably prevent the ingress of water. The previous fixation on the battery is no longer required, which means that adjustment is no longer necessary and annoying creaking and rattling noises should be avoided.
Innovative frame design in aluminium
Although the Kagu :e is an aluminium bike, Simplon says it has attached great importance to a coherent, modern and elegant appearance. The company opted for a 3-in-1 frame design using the die-casting process. This means that the motor mount, the down tube and the head tube are manufactured in one piece.
Simplon claims that this process not only enables a particularly high degree of freedom of form, but also significantly increases the rigidity of the frame. This should ensure precise, dynamic riding behaviour. According to the manufacturer, the resulting design is visually similar to a carbon frame.
Versatile luggage solutions for a wide range of applications
To emphasise the wide range of uses of the Simplon Kagu :e, the Austrian manufacturer offers various luggage rack solutions. The e-bike has four attachment points on the head tube for mounting an optional front pannier rack. This was developed in collaboration with the Hebie Group and has a decent load capacity of 10 kg.
It is suitable for the quick attachment of bags or rucksacks and can be customised thanks to the integrated Snapit 2.0 system and extended with its own loading area. The attachment points on the head tube comply with the 64 mm standard and also allow the installation of bottle cages, folding locks or other accessories.
Family-friendly equipment and safety features
The child seat approval on the optional 30 kg luggage carrier of the Simplon Kagu :e is interesting for families. The frame is also approved for use with a child trailer. In terms of safety, Simplon offers all Kagu :e models with optional Bosch ABS.
In combination with the hydraulic Magura brakes, this should ensure maximum braking power regardless of the surface. Other practical details include Simplon's Smart Headset, which allows the brake and gear cables to be routed optimally and inconspicuously in the frame.
Simplon Kagu :e - 4 equipment variants for different requirements
Simplon offers the Kagu :e in four different equipment packages, which can be customised in the configurator.
The Essential and Selection versions are equipped with high-quality Shimano derailleur gears, while the Selection HD and Premium models rely on belt drives. Gears are shifted using either the Enviolo or the higher-quality Rohloff gear hub.
All variants have a new cockpit for a comfortable riding position and displays fitted as standard (Intuvia 100 or Kiox 500), which show important information such as battery status, support level and range at a glance.
Technical specifications
Frame
- Material: Aluminium
- Sizes: S (40) | M (45) | L (50) | XL (55)
- Colours: Steel Blue Metallic (Glossy) / Pearl White Metallic (Glossy), Pearl White Metallic (Glossy) / Steel Blue Metallic (Glossy)
- Field of application: Trekking, Tour, City, Heavy Duty
- Wheel size: 27.5 x 2.35 inch (60-584mm)
- Max. system weight: 180 kg
- Weight: from 26.2 kg
Drive system
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX Gen5
- Performance data: 85 Nm | 600 W | 340 %
- Battery: 600 Wh | 800 Wh option
- On-board computer: Bosch LED Remote + Intuvia 100 or KIOX 500 (depending on model)
Equipment variants & prices
- Kagu :e Essential: Shimano CUES U6000 1x11, RRP 4899 Euro
- Kagu :e Selection: Shimano CUES U8000 1x11, RRP 5499 Euro
- Kagu :e Selection HD: Enviolo HD manual, RRP 5699 euros
- Kagu :e Premium: Rohloff Speedhub E-14 1x14, RRP 7199 Euro
Components (all variants)
- Fork: Simplon F13 aluminium rigid fork
- Stem: Simplon Zero II 80mm x 17°
- Handlebars: Simplon CX-4 Comfort
- Brakes: Magura CT 2-piston
- Tyres: Schwalbe Johnny Watts 27.5x2.35"
- Saddle: Selle Italia Sporttourer Garda
- Seat post: Simplon Lite Rod
Marc Strucken
Editor
