No, the thing on the left of the handlebar is not a power button, it is the entire display of the Bafang system: it is sufficient for displaying the most necessary functions, even if switching on the homeopathically dosed rubber button is very fiddly. The practically inaudible motor sits as a hub in the rear wheel. It responds relatively quickly and provides smooth, even support. However, as relaxed as the gliding is on the flat, the little one struggles with climbs. The derailleur can't help it - the eight gears are sufficient for both city and short tours and otherwise get on well with the motor.
The battery of the Hercules Urbanico with 410 watt hours is firmly integrated in the down tube, charging must take place where the bike is stationary. The rider is almost enthroned as if on a Dutch bike, the straight-line stability is similarly superior, but the manoeuvrability is also sufficient for the city. If the wide tyres are ridden with slightly less pressure, the bike is sufficiently comfortable, but the suspension seat post contributes little to this. Practical: A second rack (five kilos payload) can be attached to the head tube. The rear rack with separate railing for panniers can carry 25 kilos. The downer: the centre stand gets in the way when manoeuvring and holds the bike poorly when loaded.
Conclusion from Georg Bleicher, MYBIKE test editor
The Hercules Urbanico I-8 is an inexpensive introduction to e-biking without a lot of frills and for cosy flatland rolling. Despite the rather low weight, a parking space with a power connection is important. For 2499 euros, this is a veritable e-bike of reasonable quality.
The most important details about the Hercules Urbanico I-8
- Price: 2499 Euro
- Frame sizes: 48 / 53 / 58
- Test bike weight: 22.9 kg
- Permissible total weight: 135 kg
- Frame: Aluminium
- Fork: Aluminium, rigid
- Circuit: derailleur Shimano Acera 8-speed
- Motor / battery: Bafang H600 / Bafang Intube 410 Wh
- Brakes: Disc, Shimano BR-U300
- Tyres: Schwalbe Big Ben 50-622
- Front / rear lighting system: Fuxon, FS-50, 50 lux / Fuxon RZ-100
- Maximum carrier load: Rear 25 kg / front (optional) 5kg
