​E-parallel tandem: Hase Bikes Kettwiesel TWO – finally cycling together

Cycling isn’t something that can be taken for granted. Specialised bikes aim to make cycling accessible to more people, thereby offering a measure of mobility and freedom. Examples of such specialised bikes include tricycles. But what if you can’t – or aren’t allowed to – cycle on your own? This is where a tandem might spring to mind. The new Kettwiesel Two from Hase Bikes is a parallel tandem, meaning both riders sit side by side. The concept is anything but new, but the implementation certainly is: behind the Two lies an idea that the company’s founder, Marec Hase, developed over 38 years ago as a teenager – back then for a blind friend, and today as a production-ready e-bike with a Bosch drive and a full range of modern features.

Our assessment: Great potential, unresolved issues

Tricycles have the potential to create genuine experiences; they provide mobility, exercise and fresh air even for people who find two-wheelers too unsafe, or who cannot or are not allowed to ride a bicycle. The Kettwiesel Two is certainly not a product for everyone. But there are probably more people than one might think for whom such a vehicle would improve their quality of life – people in care, couples with differing levels of fitness, and families with members who have limited mobility.

However, there is also room for improvement when it comes to infrastructure: cycle paths and cycle lanes, which are already rather narrow for standard bicycles, present a real challenge for a parallel tandem, as well as for many cargo bikes. Neither the website nor the press release reveals how wide the Kettwiesel Two is. Only the packed dimensions – 117 cm wide – are specified.

As you might expect, the Kettwiesel Two comes with a hefty price tag: just under 13,000 euros for the basic model, and the The Strada Magic from Urban Fahrradbau, which we tried out recently. A tandem tricycle on which the riders sit one behind the other, but with their heads close together, making it easier to talk.

​A quick fun fact: For years, I thought the bike was called a ‘Kettenwiesel’ – until, whilst writing this article, I realised it’s actually called a ‘Kettwiesel’. What have you repeatedly misread or misunderstood, only to realise at some point that it’s actually called something completely different? Let us know in the comments!

Figures, data, facts

• Weight: 57.5 kg including battery
• Maximum payload: 240 kg
• Packed dimensions (folded): 180 × 117 × 69 cm
• Height: 1.30–2.00 m (telescopic frame)
• Seat height: 59–63 cm, continuously adjustable
• Bottom bracket height: 32 cm
• Engine: Bosch Performance Line CX, 100 Nm
• Battery: a choice of 545 Wh or 800 Wh (dual battery optional)
• Circuit (basic): Shimano Inter 5 DI2 automatic, 5-speed
• Wheels: 20 inches
• Colour: Dove Blue RAL 5014
• Price: from 12,950 euros

The bike in detail

The Kettwiesel Two is fully suspended: a suspension fork provides damping at the front, whilst a MacPherson suspension system at the rear ensures comfort even on uneven surfaces. Both seats can be swivelled, which makes it easier to get on and off the wheelchair. The seating position, angle and handlebars can be individually adjusted, so that the bike can be tailored to two very different people.

The Kettwiesel Two is powered by the Bosch Performance Line CX with 100 Nm – a motor that provides reliable and responsive assistance even on inclines or when carrying heavy loads (up to 240 kg). The lights are supplied by Busch & Müller and are powered directly from the motor battery. A front basket, the AtranVelo Duo Basket, is also fitted as standard.

The bike can be made considerably smaller for transport and storage: the seat backs and handlebars fold down, and the frame collapses. Measuring 180 × 117 × 69 cm and weighing from 57.5 kg, it can be lifted upright onto a car’s rear rack by two people – Hase recommends Allround racks as a suitable option here. You may need to enlist the help of neighbours, friends or acquaintances to lift it onto the roof rack if you can’t manage it yourself.

The Kettwiesel Two can be customised with accessories: armrests, footrests and safety belts are available, as are transport solutions for rollators, wheelchairs or walking aids.

The Kettwiesel Two at a glance

Entry-level model (best-seller) – from 12,950 euros

• Frame: Aluminium, telescopic
• Seat covers: Kettwiesel TWO Standard
• Circuit: Shimano Inter 5 DI2 Automatic (5-speed)
• Battery: 545 Wh or 800 Wh (selectable)
• Brakes: hydraulic at the front, hydraulically-coupled at the rear
• Colour: Dove Blue RAL 5014

Custom model – Upgrades compared with the standard model:

• Seat covers: Vario Comfort Seats
• Circuit: Automatic Rohloff E-Shift (14 speeds)
• Battery: Bosch dual battery, including 800 Wh