The entry-level price range starts at around 800 euros. Here, large manufacturers often offer a well-organised range: solid, mid-range mass-produced technology with extensive features and a pleasing appearance. What you have to do without here is lightweight. Many of the components are heavier than necessary, but are therefore cheaper. Own-brand or no-name parts are often used here.
The upper price range of touring bikes initially offers less. Because less weight means much more riding fun - if the designers use the material in the best possible way. You can expect high stability values for frames, forks and carriers, higher quality shifting and braking systems and elaborate, careful workmanship. The faster, sportier or more luggage-heavy you tend to ride, the more worthwhile it is to purchase a high-quality, first-class touring bike with stable riding dynamics.
The bikes in the test:
800-euro class:
Specialised Vienna De Luxe 4, http://www.specialized.com
Stevens Primera Luxe Gent, http://www.stevens.de
1000-euro class:
KTM Life Disc, http://www.ktm-bikes.at
VSF Fahrradmanufaktur T-300 C, http://www.fahrradmanufaktur.de
1200 Euro class:
Panther Gepard, http://www.pantherbike.com
Velotraum Cross 7005 EX Basic, http://www.velotraum.com
1600 Euro class:
Gudereit SX-95, http://www.gudereit.de
Simplon Scan K2, http://www.simplon.com
