The E-Horizon Elite Belt Amsterdam is a typical mid-range model from Bergamont's trekking pedelec series. The manufacturer has given it its own look: instead of a conventional centre tube frame, it reinforces the frames of its trekking step-through bikes with a second frame tube running parallel to the centre tube. The lower third is welded to the centre tube. This is intended to stiffen the frame composite.
This makes the frame an eye-catcher, but it only achieved average values for riding stability in the test lab. In addition, the step-through is narrower and higher than without the additional tube. This could be a deciding factor for people with restricted mobility. Another point of criticism of the frame design: The battery can only be removed with tools and only from below, making access to the battery compartment somewhat awkward. Bottom line: Fits the bill, but the special look is not a technical highlight.
Practical all-rounder
When it came to the drive system, the makers really got down to business and gave the everyday bike the most powerful Bosch drive with a large 625 Wh battery. The electrics are operated via the simple Purion display with integrated keypad. Switch on and off you go. The combination of upright posture and powerful motor creates an unusual riding sensation, but the ride is fun. The other drive components also play a big part in this.
The combination of the Performance CX drive, Gates belt instead of a chain and the Nexus five-speed hub runs smoothly. When shifting up, it changes gears almost silently; gear changes in the other direction are acknowledged under load with a clearly audible click. The drivetrain is comfortably composed and largely maintenance-free, the wide gear steps of the Nexus hub are not a problem in everyday use - however, they would not be ideal on a tour. The solid ride feel is continued in the rest of the equipment. The 47 millimetre wide tyres in combination with the steel suspension fork ensure reasonable comfort.
Here you will find Basic knowledge about the drive with Gates belts and Tips on how belts and pulleys last a long time.
Riding experience on the Bergamont E-Horizon
The Bergamont E-Horizon is light-footed and manoeuvrable and doesn't react nervously to hasty handlebar input. Shimano's bread-and-butter MT200 brake system is easy to modulate and decelerates the Bergamont E-Horizon satisfactorily, even with luggage on the carrier, which can carry up to 25kg. The mudguards made of profiled aluminium plate are durable and attached in such a way that they don't rattle. The solid Racktime system carrier is firmly attached to the frame, and suitable bags and baskets can be easily and securely attached to it using adapters. However, if you're loading the bike, a rear stand would be the more stable solution instead of the built-in centre stand. Ultimately, the Bergamont impresses above all as a low-maintenance unisex all-rounder. The very upright riding position and the somewhat coarse gearing of the five-speed hub gears speak against its primary use as a touring and trekking pedelec.
The most important details of the Bergamont E-Horizon
- Model: BERGAMONT E-Horizon Elite Belt Amsterdam
- Price: 3899 Euro
- Frame sizes: H: 48, 52, 56, 60; W: 44, 48, 52 (size of the test wheel), 56
- Test bike weight: 24.9 kg
- permissible total weight: 140 kg
- Frame: Aluminium
- Fork: SR Suntour NX1, 63 mm, QR 9x100 mm
- Circuit: Shimano Nexus 5, 1x5; 46/32 teeth
- Motor/battery: Bosch Performance CX/625 Wh
- Brakes/ø: Disc, Shimano BR-MT200/v: 180 mm, h: 160 mm
- Tyres: Schwalbe Energizer Active Plus 47-622
- Lighting system: B&M Dopp, 35 lux; B&M Toplight 2 C
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Powerful drive, low maintenance
- Minus: High step-through, battery cannot be removed without tools
Conclusion on the Bergamont E-Horizon
Unfortunately, the battery cannot be removed from the frame without tools; its cover is secured with a screw. Apart from that, the Bergamont E-Horizon is a solidly built, low-maintenance everyday pedelec.
