Test: Strong partners: 6 all-round e-bikes in the test

• Brennabor T-63E
• Kalkhoff Endeavour 5.B Season
• Kettler Quadriga P5 RT
• Kreidler Vitality Eco 7 Sport
• Stevens E-Courier PT5
• Victoria E-Trekking 7.8

Things are happening: car parks in city centres are being transformed into cycle lanes, pop-up cycle paths are growing out of the asphalt overnight. Cities are planning cycle highways to the suburbs and commuters are discovering the simple, uncomplicated way of travelling between home, work and the supermarket. There have never been so many bikes on the roads and cycle paths, and the range and variety have never been greater.

All-round e-bikes have played a significant role in this development. They make cycling accessible to many people who would still mainly be travelling by car without electric assistance. They are the workhorses for everyday life, leisure and short escapes. The demands on all-round e-bikes are therefore high: they have to withstand wind and weather, require little maintenance and cover a wide range of uses. However, there is no such thing as the perfect all-rounder. Before buying, you should therefore be clear about your personal preferences, preferred use and the limits of your own budget.

The test field

In our test, we present six mid-range all-round e-bikes of different types: two unisex or wave-frame bikes, two classic men's pedelecs with diamond frames and two trapeze-frame pedelecs. The quality of the equipment and components used is above entry-level, but does not come close to expensive high-end material. Even if the prices of our all-round e-bikes may seem high at first glance at between 3200 and 3500 euros, sensible, durable and reliable bike material with an e-drive is difficult to find below this price threshold. And against the backdrop of corona-related production stoppages, interrupted supply chains and the renewed increase in VAT, the price increase we have observed in this segment of around seven per cent compared to 2021 could have been significantly higher.

The price difference between the cheapest and most expensive bike in the test field is just 300 euros. Qualitative differences in the equipment are therefore naturally small. The fact that components such as brakes, gears, motors and suspension forks largely come from the same manufacturer is not least due to availability. The motors are all from Bosch. Shimano's Nexus 5E gear hub dominates the gears, while all all-round e-bikes are equipped with steel suspension forks from SR Suntour. On four out of six bikes, the manufacturers rely on Shimano's MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, while Tektro brakes are fitted on two bikes.

Qualitatively in the midfield

Some of the Shimano MT200 brakes in the test field required a lot of manual force to decelerate properly, while others worked satisfactorily. The braking performance was not optimal, especially when new, when the disc and pads have not yet been ground in and do not build up enough friction. Heavy pedelecs quickly weigh 120 kilos with rider and luggage, and it must be possible to safely catch the high mass when travelling downhill. Our tip: Pay close attention to the braking effect during a test ride. You should complain to the dealer about high manual forces before buying.

If you don't want to worry too much about the maintenance and care of your all-round e-bike, you're better off with a gear hub instead of derailleur gears. The hubs are largely insensitive to dirt and moisture and require minimal maintenance. Brennabor, Kettler and Stevens are equipped with Shimano's Nexus 5E hub. Its gear ratio is optimised for pedelecs, the hub changes gears promptly and precisely even under load. However, downshifting leads to audibly hard engagement of the new gear. Gear changes are much smoother when the pedal is briefly released, thus reducing the motor power and chain tension. The Nexus Inter5 hub on the Victoria always requires a short release of the drivetrain for prompt gear changes.

Although derailleur gears offer a wider gear range than Nexus gear hubs, they require more maintenance. The sprocket sets and derailleurs need to be cleaned and lubricated regularly. On the other hand, the rear wheel is much easier to remove and refit. This is a major advantage in the event of a puncture far from the nearest bike workshop. The ten-speed rear derailleur on the Kreidler Vitality comes from Shimano's mid-range range and can easily cope with the high torque of the powerful Bosch Performance CX drive. The Alivio rear derailleur on the Kalkhoff Endeavour doesn't quite fit into the mid-range category. The nine-speed drivetrain can otherwise be found on cheaper pedelecs.

Uli Frieß, test editor: "The pandemic-related price increases for mid-range e-bikes are noticeable, but also understandable. In terms of quality, the pedelecs are of a good standard and all are carefully manufactured. We were not entirely convinced by the high manual force required for the brake systems in some cases."

The all-round e-bikes in detail

Convenient and safe

While a hard chassis with limited riding comfort is acceptable on sports bikes, a certain degree of comfort maintains the pleasure of cycling in everyday life. In addition to an optimally tailored seating position, voluminous tyres and a suspension fork help to keep rough road bumps away from the saddle and handlebars. Wide tyres absorb shocks but do not dampen them. They improve riding comfort, but not handling. A well-adjusted suspension fork does both. It absorbs bumps in the road when compressing and its damping prevents the front wheel from losing contact with the road for a short time when rebounding. If the spring of the fork matches the system weight of the wheel and rider, riding comfort and safety are improved.

The initial hardness of the spring can be adjusted via the preload, but not the total usable spring travel. However, if the spring stiffness selected at the factory is not suitable, good advice is expensive: replacement springs are hard to come by and easily adjustable air suspension forks are rare in this price range.

All of the drives in our all-round e-bikes come from Bosch. The Performance Line, the second most powerful version of the mid-motor, dominates the test field. Only the Stevens E-Courier has the extremely smooth and quiet Bosch Active Line motor in the bottom bracket. Whether you should favour a battery with 500 or 625 Wh depends on your habits. If you don't ride more than 15 to 20 kilometres a day on average, a 500 Wh battery will last three to four days. The main advantage of a larger battery in this range of use is the lower recharging frequency.

Conclusion: Apart from the braking systems, our mid-range all-round e-bikes fulfil the expectations of reliable everyday pedelecs. You can literally find out whether your dream bike is the perfect fit for you during a test ride.

The six all-round e-bikes in the test

Brennabor T-63E: Gear hub and mid-motor

At the beginning of the 20th century, Brennabor was one of the largest bicycle manufacturers in Europe. After the Second World War, the brand went quiet. Brennabor bicycles have been available again since 2020 and are produced by Hartje. The T-63E is available with a trapezoidal frame as well as a men's bike or step-through model. The pedelec owes its high level of riding comfort primarily to the telescopic seat post installed in addition to the suspension fork. Thanks to the pleasantly offset handlebars and Ergo handlebar grips, you can sit on the Brennabor without tiring, even on longer journeys. The frame composite with a differentiated top tube diameter is sufficiently stiff, and the pedelec is stable and safe. We liked the battery cover. Competitors often use inferior materials, but on the Brennabor it is made of metal and closes rattle-free on the frame. The plastic SKS mudguards are also solidly braced. The frame is neatly welded and the matt paintwork is flawless. Practical against thirst on tours: the bottle cage threaded bushes on the top tube.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: Convenient, stable battery cover
• Minus: Relatively heavy

The Brennabor T-63E in detail

• Frame sizes: H: 52, 56, 60 cm; D: 50, 55 cm; W: 45, 50, 55 cm
• Test bike weight: 29.9 kg
• Permissible total weight: 140 kg
• Frame: Aluminium
• Fork: SR Suntour NEX e25, 63 mm, QR 9x100 mm
• Circuit: Shimano Nexus 5E; 38/27 teeth
• Motor/battery: Bosch Performance/625 Wh
• Brakes/ø: Disc, Shimano BR-MT200/v: 180 mm, h: 180 mm
• Tyres: Continental Contact Plus 47-622
• Lighting system: Contec Dlux 80 E+
• Price: 3199 Euro

MYBIKE grade: 1.9

Kalkhoff Endeavour 5.B season: derailleur gears and mid-engine

Kalkhoff riders sit comfortably. This is due to the small distance between the centre of the saddle and the handlebars as well as the generous handlebar rise. The short, upright riding position is a matter of taste, but it has no negative impact on the handling. On the other hand, we noticed the Kalkhoff's less rigid frame. The front third of the frame with the front wheel, fork and handlebars can provoke unpleasant vibrations when ridden freehand. Fortunately, they quickly subside on their own. If at least one hand is on the handlebars, everything always remains in the green zone. We liked the comfortable handling of the Endeavour. Even without a suspension seatpost, it can keep up with the competition. The voluminous, 55 millimetre wide Schwalbe Landcruiser tyres play a large part in this. Kalkhoff has saved on the rear derailleur and the sprocket set. The nine-speed Alivio groupset doesn't really suit a mid-range pedelec. On the other hand, the cable and cable routing is well organised. As far as possible, they are routed inside the frame and through the head tube and stem.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: Convenient, neatly routed cables and pulls
• Minus: Less rigid frame, nine-speed rear derailleur

The Kalkhoff Endeavour 5.B season in detail

• Frame sizes: 43, 47, 53, 58, 63
• Test bike weight: 28 kg
• Permissible total weight: 130 kg
• Frame: Aluminium
• Fork: SR Suntour XCM 32 Coil LOR 80 mm, QR 15x100 mm
• Circuit: Shimano Alivio 1x9; 38/11-34 teeth
• Motor/battery: Bosch Performance/625 Wh
• Brakes/ø: Disc, Shimano BR-MT200/v: 180 mm, h: 160 mm
• Tyres: Schwalbe LandCruiser Plus Reflex 55-622
• Lighting system: Herrmans H-Black MR4; Herrmans H-Trace
• Price: 3399 Euro

MYBIKE grade: 2.3

Kreidler Vitality eco 7 sport: derailleur gears and mid-engine

The Vitality Eco Sport could be an all-rounder with very good touring genes if it were built more consistently. Touring cyclists, for example, will appreciate the powerful Bosch Performance CX drive, which gives the lightweight Kreidler plenty of riding dynamics. The ten-speed Deore rear derailleur from Shimano's mid-range range also matches the powerful drive. If you want to sit a little flatter, you can have several stem spacers removed at the bike dealer. For even more touring suitability, however, the long range 625 Wh battery would have been nice. Another cost-saving measure: Instead of the classic Intuvia display, Kreidler riders have to make do with the Purion instrument on the left end of the handlebars. Its information content is lower and the buttons are less convenient to operate. Apart from the not entirely harmonious equipment, the lightweight Vitality is nevertheless an appealing, well-made and lively pedelec for everyday use and medium-length excursions. If you mainly ride on hilly terrain, you will appreciate the powerful motorisation.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: Powerful drive, relatively light
• Minus: Not fully equipped

The Kreidler Vitality eco 7 sport in detail

• Frame sizes: H: 50, 55, 60 cm; D: 45, 50, 55 cm; W: 45, 50, 55 cm
• Test bike weight: 24.9 kg
• Permissible total weight: 140 kg
• Frame: Aluminium
• Fork: SR Suntour NEX, 63 mm, QR 9x100 mm
• Circuit: Shimano Nexus 5E; 38/30 teeth
• Motor/battery: Bosch Performance/625 Wh
• Brakes/ø: Disc, Shimano BR-MT200/v: 180 mm, h: 160 mm
• Tyres: Schwalbe Marathon Performance Line Green Guard 50-622
• Lighting system: Fuxon FS-50 EB; Fuxon R-Glow EB
• Price: 3399 Euro

MYBIKE grade: 2.2

Kettler Quadriga P5 RT: Hub gears and mid-motor

The most striking feature of the Kettler is the generous dimensions of the down tube and chain stays. They contrast with the flat profile of the top tube. More than 30 kilos of fighting weight result from the generous use of materials. The bike is also quite heavy due to the relatively large 55 mm frame with a generous 625 Wh battery. A positive side effect is that the frame composite has no weaknesses in terms of stability. The Kettler rolls manoeuvrable, but is not very lively due to its high weight. Quadriga riders sit upright, but can adjust the seating position by means of an adjustable stem and by removing two spacers. If you ignore the rattling plastic motor fairing, the Kettler is carefully finished. A K-Link trailer hitch is integrated into the right-hand chainstay. This allows Kettler child trailers to be attached without additional attachments. If you are looking for a sturdily built all-round pedelec with an additional coaster brake and don't mind the high weight, you might like the Kettler Quadriga.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: Stiff frame, additional coaster brake
• Minus: Really heavy, rattling engine cowling

The Kettler Quadriga P5 RT in detail

• Frame sizes: H: 50, 55, 60 cm; D: 47, 50, 55 cm; W: 47, 50, 55 cm
• Test bike weight: 30.6 kg
• Permissible total weight: 145 kg
• Frame: Aluminium
• Fork: SR Suntour NEX e25, 63 mm
• Circuit: Shimano Nexus 5E; 38/30 teeth
• Motor/battery: Bosch Performance/625 Wh
• Brakes/ø: Disc, Shimano BR-MT200/v: 180 mm, h: 160 mm
• Tyres: Schwalbe Marathon Performance Line Green Guard 50-622
• Lighting system: Fuxon FS-50 EB; Fuxon R-Glow EB

MYBIKE grade: 2.0

Stevens E-Courier pt5: Gear hub and mid-engine

With the E-Courier, Stevens has a functional and coherently designed unisex all-rounder in its programme. Other Wave frames may be statically susceptible, but this one delivered the best value in the test field on our stiffness test bench. This is clearly reflected in the riding behaviour. Steering impulses are implemented precisely and without delay, the bike always rolls in the chosen lane with good control. The pannier rack is firmly supported in the dropout, and even when loaded, the Stevens rolls without any noticeable reactions to steering inputs. Bosch's Active Plus drive fits well with the purpose of the all-round workhorse. It responds smoothly to pedal pressure, runs almost inaudibly and is economical. The fact that "only" the small 500 Wh battery is fitted is therefore of no consequence. The combination with Shimano's Nexus 5E gear hub is impressive. It shifts gears almost instantaneously, even under load. The high standards of durability and low maintenance are demonstrated by the solid mudguards made of aluminium profile plate. The only drawback: Stevens riders need a Torx spanner to remove the battery cover.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: Very rigid frame, smooth drive
• Minus: Battery cover cannot be removed without tools

The Stevens E-Courier pt5 in detail

• Frame sizes: D: 52, 55, 58, 61 cm; W: 46, 52, 56 cm
• Test bike weight: 27.7 kg
• Permissible total weight: 140 kg
• Frame: Aluminium
• Fork: SR Suntour NCX-D LO Coil 63 mm, QR 9x100 mm
• Circuit: Shimano Nexus 5E; 38/27 teeth
• Motor/battery: Bosch Active/500 Wh
• Brakes/ø: Disc, Shimano BR-MT200/v: 180 mm, h: 160 mm
• Tyres: Schwalbe Marathon Performance GreenGuard Reflex 47-622
• Lighting system: B+M IQ Myc T Senso; B+M Shine Evo

MYBIKE grade: 1.8 (MYBIKE test winner 2/2022)

Victoria E-Trekking 7.8: Gear hub and mid-motor

The name is suggestive: Victoria categorises the E-Trekking as an all-rounder suitable for touring. We can largely agree with this. Victoria riders sit ergonomically favourable and comfortable. The Victoria rolls agilely, the wide handlebars ensure good control. With a telescopic seat post and 50-millimetre tyres, the riding comfort also fits into the category of all-round tourers. However, although the drivetrain consisting of a powerful Bosch Performance motor, Nexus five-speed hub with Gates belt and 500 Wh battery is high-quality and low-maintenance, the narrow gear range of the gears noticeably restricts its suitability for touring. Instead of an Intube battery, Victoria has integrated the Ontube version into the down tube up to about half its height and concealed it with a plastic cover. This may not be visually convincing, but the energy source is very easy to remove for charging. The frame is solidly made, but the somewhat rough weld seams and the rough step at the transition from the down tube to the motor interface spoil the picture. Good: the sturdy rack with pannier stays and the aluminium wheel guards.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: Low-maintenance drive train
• Minus: Blunt transition between down tube and motor interface

The Victoria E-Trekking 7.8 in detail

• Frame sizes: D: 48, 53, 58, 63 cm; T: 48, 53 cm; W: 46, 51, 56, 61 cm
• Test bike weight: 28 kg
• Permissible total weight: 140 kg
• Frame: Aluminium
• Fork: SR Suntour NEX E25, 63 mm, QR 9x100 mm
• Circuit: Shimano Nexus Inter5; 46/28 teeth
• Motor/battery: Bosch Performance/500 Wh
• Brakes/ø: Disc, Tektro HD-T280/v: 180 mm, h: 160 mm
• Tyres: CST Tournee 45 Prestige L7 E 50-622
• Lighting system: Contec Dlux 80 E+, Contec TL-355 E-Stop

MYBIKE grade: 2.1

All all-round e-bikes in comparison

All the mid-range all-rounders in the test field impressed with their safe handling and high utility value. The Stevens E-Courier owes its test victory to its harmonious equipment and its super-stiff frame with an acceptable weight. As a brand newcomer, the Brennabor surprised right from the start with its good overall performance.

• Driver weight: 85 kg
• Pedalling power: Level: 60 Watt | Mountain: 110 watts
• Support: Level: medium level | Mountain: Highest level

We measure the ranges on our roller test bench. There, the pedelecs cover a realistic route profile. With the smaller 500 Wh battery, our all-rounders manage between 55 and 65 kilometres. This is more than enough for everyday journeys between work and the supermarket. If you plan longer trips more often, you should opt for the larger 625 Wh battery. With just under 94 kilometres, the Kalkhoff Endeavour is the clear winner in terms of range. However, the bike also completed our test run considerably slower than the competition.