A functional bike with an electric drive that is suitable for everyday use does not have to cost €3,000 - that much can be revealed right at the start of this test. The most important question when looking for a good, affordable bike is rather: What should you look out for when buying one? Where have the manufacturers cut corners in order to produce a reasonably priced bike? Which of the more expensive, more elaborate technology has been omitted that may have a negative impact on function and safety?
In 2015, the average price of all pedelecs sold was just under € 2,800; we have set a limit of € 2,000 for our current test candidates, because this price limit is the point at which there is interesting competition - from the buyer's point of view - between inexpensive specialist dealer bikes and pedelecs from discounters. Two of the bikes in this test field represent the latter species: the Fischer ETD 1722 and the Nopeus eTour. While the Nopeus is at the upper end of the price scale at €1,999, you only have to spend €1,499 for the Fischer - which at least shows that not all discount bikes are the same. Discounters offer bikes at the same prices as specialist retailers. The actual differences in quality, equipment - and service - are therefore decisive, as this has not been the strength of discounters and consumer markets to date.
The test results of these pedelecs can be found below in the article series:
- Batavus Genova E-go
- BBF Lyon
- Bra Easygo Street
- Fischer ETD 1722
- Nopeus eTour 400 N8
- Pegasus Piazza E
- Velo de Ville CEB 790
- Winora Manto M7 (E-BIKE test winner)
Quality increases safety
In general, manufacturers can save costs in two main ways: through high quantities - because they can then buy bicycle parts more cheaply - and lower quality. While large quantities primarily have little influence on riding behaviour, suitability for everyday use and safety, poor quality is a recipe for trouble. Nevertheless, manufacturers can use cheap parts: Either by making slight compromises in terms of durability or by using parts that do not offer the latest level of technical development, but rather the tried and tested standard from previous years. However, neither is at the expense of safety. However, you should pay close attention to the quality of safety-relevant components - frame, fork, brakes and wheels - when buying any pedelec, regardless of whether it is cheap or expensive. These parts must be able to withstand higher loads than on normal bikes: E-bikes accelerate faster and are more dynamic when travelling, and they weigh considerably more than normal bikes.
While the frames of the test bikes hardly give any cause for criticism visually, there are clear differences on the test bench: on the Fischer ETD 1722, for example, we were only able to measure a very low frame stiffness. In contrast, the BH Easygo Street and the Winora Manto surprised us with very stiff frames. The stiffness values of the frames of the other bikes did not differ significantly from those of more expensive bikes. Good news: The BBF Lyon was the only pedelec in the test field with a clear tendency to frame flutter when riding freehand. We noted major differences in the braking systems: The Fischer is equipped with high-quality hydraulic disc brakes, the Batavus and the BH with V-brakes, which are only suitable for pedelecs to a limited extent. The other bikes are fitted with the tried-and-tested hydraulic Magura HS-11 rim brakes, while the Pegasus has mechanical disc brakes. The gears and gear hubs are more standardised. Shimano offers the mechanical Nexus hub as well as derailleur gears from the Sora, Tourney and Acera model groups - all simple gears that work well when new and fulfil their task.
Drives with weaknesses
A differentiated picture emerges when looking at the drives. Three models (Nopeus, BBF, Velo de Ville) are equipped with the proven Bosch Active system, while the Winora accelerates with the equally good TransX M16 mid-motor. All other bikes are driven by hub motors that show weaknesses in terms of response and cut-off behaviour - with one exception: the torque sensor of the new rear hub motor from SR-Suntour on the Pegasus is located in the sprocket body and reacts surprisingly well to the rider's pedalling movements. However, the electronics of the drive are insufficiently protected against moisture. The only front wheel hub motor in the test - on the Batavus - responds well and quickly, but it keeps pushing for a long time when you stop pedalling. Typical for front-wheel drives: it pushes rather gently and is less suitable for steep climbs. And, very impractical: because there is no plug connection in the cable between the battery and motor, the bike has to be taken to a specialist workshop if the front wheel has a flat tyre. You can't just change a tyre or inner tube yourself.
Favourable can work
On the one hand, manufacturers such as Nopeus, Velo de Ville and Winora prove that it is possible to bring pedelecs with sensible and safe equipment onto the market for little money. On the other hand, pedelecs such as the BH or the Batavus clearly demonstrate the need to save money in this price category.
###new-page###Test 2017: Pedelecs up to 2000 eurosTest pedelecs: Details of the test bikes
Details on the test bikes:
###new-page###Test 2017: Pedelecs up to 2000 eurosTest result Batavus Genova E-go
Test Batavus Genova E-go
Reminiscent of the style of a Dutch bike is not only the relaxed riding position but also the chain case, in this case stylishly made of transparent plastic. The front hub motor is not particularly powerful, but responds quickly. However, the fact that the drive is only controlled via the cadence and the power is thus regulated exclusively via the assistance level is no longer up to date. If you stop pedalling, the motor keeps pushing for a relatively long time. The Genova is manufactured to a high standard, with cables and wires neatly routed inside the frame tubes wherever possible. Practical: the handlebar height and angle can be adjusted in seconds. The Dutch have skimped on the brakes, but the V-brakes on the Genova should be sufficient for leisurely rides on the flat.
It is incomprehensible why the power cable connecting the battery and hub motor has no plug connection. If you have a flat tyre on the front wheel, you have to take it to the workshop.
ConclusionLow step-through Dutch-style bike for leisurely rides. Well made, but little motor power
Overall rating* 2.7
Comfort 2.6
Fork No-name suspension fork
Suspension Telescopic seat post
Safety 2.6
Brakes V-brake Shimano Sirius
Flutter safety high
Drive 2.4
Motor system/battery Ananda VR hub/396 Wh
Gear hub Nexus Inter 7
Starting and pushing aid no
Practice 3.3
Tyres CST Classic Ottis 700 x 35C
Weight (v/h in %**) 25.8 kg (38/62)
Service 2.8
Guarantee 10 years frame
CE Yes
Geometry
Wheelbase 1,111 mm
Saddle height above ground 1,001 mm
Step-through height 436 mm
Seat length 564/697 mm
Handlebar riser 19/94 mm
Handlebar width 630 mm
Frame sizes*** 48, 53, 57 cm
Permissible total weight 130 kg
Price 1,845 Euro
Reference/Info www.batavus.de
*The E-BIKE judgement is independent of price, see table on page 44 for the weighting of the individual grades, which are graded from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike. ***The values of the test model are printed in bold.
###new-page###Test 2017: Pedelecs up to 2000 eurosTest result BBF Lyon
Test BBF Lyon
The BBF Lyon is one of three bikes in the test with the popular Bosch Active system, which is not a matter of course in this price range. Despite the small 300 Wh battery, it travelled surprisingly far - although the speed in our range test, which we carried out with a defined pedalling power, was well below average. Magura's hydraulic rim brakes, the sturdy Pletscher rear kickstand and the neatly finished frame give a high-quality impression. The mechanical Nexus 7-speed hub gears, which are also found on more expensive bikes, are standard in this price range. In addition to the riding position, the damping elements in the fork and telescopic seat post play a large part in the good riding comfort. The Lyon is easy to control, but has a distinct tendency to wobble when ridden freehand.
This lowers the overall score, even if the problem with a firm grip on the handlebars does not occur.
Conclusion: Well equipped and suitable for everyday use, driving stability is below average
Overall rating* 3.1
Comfort 2.5
Fork SR Suntour CR 85V
Suspension Telescopic seat post
Security 4.1
Brakes hydr. rim, Magura HS11
Flutter safety inadequate
Drive 1.8
Motor system/battery Bosch Active/300 Wh
Gear hub Shimano Nexus 7
Starting and pushing aid Yes
Practice 1.8
Tyres Schwalbe Energizer Reflex 40-622
Weight (v/h in %**) 25.8 kg (36/61)
Service 3.0
Guarantee 2 years
CE Yes
Geometry
Wheelbase 1,093 mm
Saddle height above ground 997 mm
Step-through height 447 mm
Seat length (min/max) 585/712 mm
Handlebar camber (min/max) 11/126 mm
Handlebar width 600 mm
Frame sizes*** 46, 49, 53 cm
Permissible total weight 140 kg
Price 1,999 Euro
Reference/Info
www.bbf-bike.de
*The E-BIKE judgement is independent of price, see table on page 44 for the weighting of the individual grades, which are graded from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike. ***The values of the test model are printed in bold.
###new-page###Test 2017: Pedelecs up to 2000 eurosTest result BH Easygo Street
Test BH Easygo Street
The Easygo is not quite as light as the name promises. The small pedelec from the Spanish manufacturer weighs relatively little and is manoeuvrable thanks to its 26-inch wheels and short wheelbase. The Shimano gear group also works satisfactorily. Unfortunately, the suspension fork is almost ineffective and the bike does not have a telescopic seat post. The handlebars are curved backwards and upwards, forcing the wrists into an unnatural position - so riding comfort is limited. The V-brakes decelerate the lightweight bike sufficiently well, but you have to apply a lot of force. The rear hub motor responds well and regulates the assistance smoothly, but takes quite a long time to switch off when you stop pedalling. Although the brake levers are equipped with motor stop switches (which stop the motor when the brake is pulled), we did not notice an immediate switch-off of the thrust. The Easygo is relatively inexpensive and simple in design, the battery is comparatively small, but still well suited for the city and short journeys.
ConclusionLight and stable, with weaknesses in drive and equipment. Inexpensive alternative for short distances
Overall rating* 2.6
Comfort 3.2
Fork Emotion Suspension
Suspension none
Security 2.3
Brakes V-brake
Flutter safety Very high
Drive 2.9
Motor system/battery Thru Axle HR hub/252 Wh
derailleur gears Shimano Tourney, 7-speed; 44; 14-28
Starting and pushing aid Yes
Practice 2.6
Tyres Emotion City 44-559
Weight (v/h in %**) 20.3 kg (38/62)
Service 3.5
Guarantee 10 years frame
CE Yes
Geometry
Wheelbase 1,049 mm
Saddle height above ground 933 mm
Step-through height 539 mm
Seat length (min/max) 582/604 mm
Handlebar camber (min/max) 53/109 mm
Handlebar width 610 mm
Frame size 41 cm
Permissible total weight 165 kg
Price 1,699 Euro
Reference/Info
www.bhbikes.com
*The E-BIKE judgement is independent of price, see table on page 44 for the weighting of the individual grades, which are graded from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike. ***The values of the test model are printed in bold.
###new-page###Test 2017: Pedelecs up to 2000 eurosTest result Fischer ETD 1722
Test Fischer ETD 1722
Like Nopeus models, Fischer pedelecs are mainly found in large stores such as Mediamarkt and Metro. There is praise for the perfectly finished frame, and the manufacturer offers a 30-year guarantee on the tube composite. The look is one thing, but the frame also makes the bike stable and manoeuvrable. The Fischer can be controlled very well in every situation. The relatively straight, ergonomically well-shaped handlebars play a major part in this. The Shengyi rear hub motor can't quite keep up the level. Depending on the support level, it does provide a good push, but takes a good half turn of the crank. This makes starting uphill a feat of strength. When you stop pedalling, it also takes about half a second for the motor to switch off. The Shimano disc brakes decelerate very reliably and the suspension fork also does its job well. With the insensitive dropper post, the EDT 1722 loses an even better grade for riding comfort.
ConclusionGreat frame, high-quality brakes, nice finish.
Powerful motor, not optimally regulated
Alternative: The Fischer ETD 1722 is also available as a men's bike. With the same equipment at the same price.
Overall rating* 2.2
Comfort 2.3
Fork Suntour NCX
Suspension Telescopic seat post
Security 2.0
Brakes Disc, Shimano BR M315
Flutter safety high
Drive 2.5
Motor system/battery*** Shengyi HR hub/422, 557 Wh
derailleur gears Shimano Acera, 8-speed; 48-38-28; 13-34
Starting and pushing aid Yes
Practice 2.3
Tyres Kenda Khan Reflex 42-622
Weight (v/h in %**) 24.9 kg (43/57)
Service 1.5
Guarantee 30 years of frames
CE Yes
Geometry
Wheelbase 1,103 mm
Saddle height above ground 1.002 mm
Seat length (min/max) 626/672 mm
Handlebar camber (min/max) -5/77 mm
Handlebar width 660 mm
Frame size 50 cm
Permissible total weight 135 kg
Price 1,499 Euro
Reference/Info
www.fischer-fahrrad.de
*The E-BIKE judgement is independent of price, see table on page 44 for the weighting of the individual grades, which are graded from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike. ***The values of the test model are printed in bold.
###new-page###Test 2017: Pedelecs up to 2000 eurosTest result Nopeus eTour 400 NB
Test Nopeus eTour 400 N8
Nopeus mainly supplies large retail chains and is one of the higher quality manufacturers. The eTour 400 N8 performs well in our test field. In terms of equipment and riding characteristics, it can compete with some more expensive step-through bikes. This is most evident in the riding comfort. The combination of sensitive suspension fork, ergonomic steering centre and very good telescopic seat post is easy on both bike and rider. The eTour is stable and there is no tendency to wobble even when riding freehand. This is probably due not only to the stiff and neatly finished frame with tapered head tube, but also to the solid, adjustable stem. Bosch's Active drive system, a Nexus 8 gear hub and hydraulic rim brakes are tried and tested, rock-solid features. The long range is thanks to the 500 Wh battery, which was fitted to the test bike instead of the standard battery (400 Wh).
ConclusionCoherent equipment combined with high riding comfort. Clean finish and stable ride
Alternative: The Nopeus eTour is also available as a men's model. The features and price correspond to the women's version
Overall rating* 2.1
Comfort 2.1
Fork Suntour e25
Suspension Telescopic seat post
Safety 2.4
Brakes hydr. rim, Magura HS11
Flutter safety high
Drive 1.9
Motor system/battery*** Bosch Active / 400, 500 Wh
Gear hub Shimano Nexus 8
Starting and pushing aid Yes
Practice 1.7
Tyres Schwalbe Energizer Reflex 40-622
Weight (v/h in %**) 26,1 (40/60)
Service 1.3
Guarantee Lifelong frame
CE Yes
Geometry
Wheelbase 1,116 mm
Saddle height above ground 985 mm
Step-through height 458 mm
Seat length (min/max) 604/664 mm
Handlebar camber (min/max) 19/70 mm
Handlebar width 640 mm
Frame size L (50 cm)
Permissible total weight 130 kg
Price 1,999 Euro
Reference/Info
www.nopeus.de
*The E-BIKE judgement is independent of price, see table on page 44 for the weighting of the individual grades, which are graded from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike. ***The values of the test model are printed in bold.
###new-page###Test 2017: Pedelecs up to 2000 eurosTest result Pegasus Piazza E
Test Pegasus Piazza E
At around 1,700 euros, the Piazza is one of the most affordable pedelecs in this test. Considering the price, the bike has few weaknesses and the riding characteristics are particularly impressive. The frame is stable, the long rear triangle calms the ride, and yet the Piazza is very agile. The suspension fork absorbs bumps effectively, and a dropper seat post would have made the ride more comfortable. We really liked the characteristics of the new rear hub motor from SR-Suntour. It reacts very quickly to pedalling, the thrust is spontaneous and easy to control, and it also stops quickly when you stop pedalling. The position of the torque sensor in the crankcase - in most hub motors it is located in the motor housing - seems to have a positive influence on the control behaviour. The display is easy to read and the control unit is easy to adjust even when wearing gloves. However, the encapsulation of the electronics in the frame node does not seem to have been thought through to the end: The cover plates are screwed to the housing without a seal, which means that the electronics are unlikely to be securely and permanently protected against moisture ingress.
ConclusionAgile bike with well-regulated hub motor. Unfortunately no dropper post; poorly protected electronics
Overall rating* 2.3
Comfort 2.6
Fork Suntour NEX E25
Suspension none
Safety 2.4
Brakes Mechanical disc, Tektro Aries
Flutter safety high
Drive 2.2
Motor system/battery SR Suntour HR hub / 446 Wh
derailleur gear Shimano Tourney, 7-speed; 41; 11-28
Starting and pushing aid Yes
Practice 2.2
Tyres Kenda Reflex 42-622
Weight (v/h in %**) 25.0 kg (42/58)
Service 2.5
Guarantee 2 years
CE Yes
Geometry
Wheelbase 1,161 mm
Saddle height above ground 994 mm
Seat length (min/max) 639/687 mm
Handlebar camber (min/max) 49/132 mm
Handlebar width 630 mm
Frame sizes*** 45, 49, 53 cm
Permissible total weight 135 kg
Price 1,699 Euro
Reference/Info
www.pegasus-bikes.de
*The E-BIKE judgement is independent of price, see table on page 44 for the weighting of the individual grades, which are graded from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike. ***The values of the test model are printed in bold.
###new-page###Test 2017: Pedelecs up to 2000 eurosTest result Velo de Ville CEB 70
Test Velo de Ville CEB 70
The sophisticated and elaborately manufactured frame of the Velo de Ville immediately catches the eye. Neatly welded tubes, internally routed cables and the beautiful paintwork are not a matter of course in this price range. The equipment with Bosch's Active drivetrain, Nexus gearing and Magura's HS11 brake system is durable and proven, and the lack of quick-release skewers on the wheels and the simple stem can be overlooked. With the battery on the centre tube and good weight distribution, the step-through bike is stable and easy to control. The pedelec only shows minor weaknesses in terms of comfort: the suspension fork does its job sensitively enough, but a telescopic seatpost would be a useful addition. The Velo de Ville therefore does not iron out bumps in the road quite as well. Overall, the CEB 70 is well made for this price, the designers have not cut corners.
ConclusionGreat frame and harmonious equipment. Balanced riding behaviour with slight weaknesses in comfort
Overall rating* 2.2
Comfort 2.6
Fork Suntour CR 85 E
Suspension none
Safety 2.4
Brakes hydr. rim, Magura HS11
Flutter safety high
Drive 2.0
Motor system/battery*** Bosch Active/400, 500 Wh
Gear hub Shimano Nexus Inter 7
Starting and pushing aid Yes
Practice 1.9
Tyres Impac Streetpac 42-622
Weight (v/h in %**) 24.6 kg (47/53)
Service 2.0
Guarantee 5 year frame
CE Yes
Geometry
Wheelbase 1,152 mm
Saddle height above ground 993 mm
Step-through height 433 mm
Seat length (min/max) 630/712 mm
Handlebar camber (min/max) 10/140 mm
Handlebar width 640 mm
Frame sizes*** 40, 50, 55 cm
Permissible total weight 125 kg
Price 1,999 Euro
Reference/Info
www.velo-de-ville.de
*The E-BIKE judgement is independent of price, see table on page 44 for the weighting of the individual grades, which are graded from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike. ***The values of the test model are printed in bold.
###new-page###Test 2017: Pedelecs up to 2000 eurosTest result Winora Manto M7
Test Winora Manto M7
The Manto does not actually come from Winora; the step-through bike was developed by drive manufacturer TransX. Since the 2017 model year, it has been offering the Integra - a complete package with a fully integrated battery and drive unit that various manufacturers sell under their own brand name. The concept of "high volumes at a favourable price" has a good chance here, as the Manto has hardly any weaknesses. The voluminous centre tube also accommodates the battery, making the frame very stiff overall and the bike extremely stable. The fork provides sensitive suspension, the telescopic seat post damps effectively - the Manto is comfortable to ride. The M16 mid-motor could push a little harder and start more spontaneously, but it responds promptly when you stop pedalling. Hydraulic rim brakes and the Nexus gear hub ensure that the very cleanly finished bike is suitable for everyday use, although it is relatively heavy at just under 26 kilos.
Conclusion: Successful step-through concept, very stable and well tuned. A little heavy
Overall rating* 2.0
Comfort 2.2
Fork SR Suntour NEX-E25
Suspension Telescopic seat post
Security 1.7
Brakes hydr. rim, Magura HS11
Flutter safety Very high
Drive 2.5
Motor system/battery TranzX M16 / 400 Wh
Gear hub Shimano Nexus 7
Starting and pushing aid Yes
Practice 2.2
Tyres CST Zeppelin puncture protection Reflex 42-622
Weight (v/h in %**) 25.9 kg (47/53)
Service 2.0
Guarantee 5 year frame
CE Yes
Geometry
Wheelbase 1,112 mm
Saddle height above ground 1,001 mm
Step-through height 520 mm
Seat length (min/max) 609/658 mm
Handlebar camber (min/max) 29/93 mm
Handlebar width 650 mm
Frame sizes*** 42, 46, 50, 54 cm
Permissible total weight 130 kg
Price 1,899 Euro
Reference/Info www.winora.de
*The E-BIKE judgement is independent of price, see table on page 44 for the weighting of the individual grades, which are graded from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike. ***The values of the test model are printed in bold.
The complete article was published in E-BIKE issue 1/2017. You can download the issue in the MYBIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or in the DK-Shop order.
