Patria Kosmos test: Handmade classic at a fair price

From the raw tube to the finished bike: everything in one place, in the centre of East Westphalia. Hardly any other name is as synonymous with durable and high-quality bicycle construction in Germany as that of Patria. And hardly any other name is as synonymous with sturdy and uncomplicated touring bikes as that of Kosmos. The steel frame is genuine craftsmanship and traditional in the best sense of the word. The filigree tubes are classically lugged. This is how the Bielefeld manufactory creates a chassis that is both stable (180 kg!) and comfortable.

It is also clear that the price level is somewhat higher than for normal trekking bikes with a Far East frame due to the German production. Nevertheless, Patria manages to offer a well-equipped bike at a fair price. An average carbon gravel bike now also changes hands for around 4000 euros. Only for the front carrier would travellers with more luggage have to budget an additional 100 euros.

>> VSF T-500 test: steel trekking classic for 1500 euros

>> Shimano Cues in check: How good is the all-round gearstick?

>> Fine touring bikes for world tours: Idworx, Patria and Tout Terrain in a shootout

The facts about the Patria Kosmos 1x12

• Bike category: Trekking/travelling bike
• Drive: Chain
• Gear system: Shimano XT (1 x 12)
• Gear ratio: 30; 10 - 51 teeth
• Brakes: Shimano XT (two-piston)
• Tyres: Schwalbe Hurricane, 50 mm
• Lighting system: f. / h. B & M IQ-X, 100 Lux / B & M Toplight Line Plus
• Luggage carrier: Tubus, 26 kg
• Frame sizes: S to XXL
• Frame: Steel
• Fork: Steel
• Permissible total weight: 180 kg
• Warranty: 15 years

Handmade & agile: how the Kosmos rides

And how does a genuine factory bike like this ride? Unusual, but fantastic! Unusual because Patria does some things differently to what has now become the established standard on the market. The small 27.5 inch wheels, for example, increase the tyre clearance in the frame somewhat. The thin and clearly cranked handlebars are only shoulder width. We think this is a success, because the thin tubes mean that the Patria cockpit is not too stiff and the narrow width means that the bike remains comfortable even on long rides. Pinched nerves due to cranked wrists? No problem at all.

The small wheels combined with a compact geometry give the Kosmos a decidedly manoeuvrable ride. The Patria therefore appeals to fans of classic trekking bikes. We also ride many modern SUV and e-bikes and would have liked the handling to be a little more relaxed, especially with luggage. But that's also a matter of taste. If you want to carry a heavy load, you should definitely order an additional front carrier. Riding behaviour becomes noticeably unsteady from 20 kilos at the rear because there is no counterweight at the front. The lack of smoothness is also noticeable with the already manoeuvrable handling.

The Shimano XT drivetrain with just one chainring from the MTB sector is sporty and crisp. It can be operated as intuitively as possible and provides plenty of small gears. Steep hills are no problem, even with a load. Without a load, however, you often end up in the second-largest gear when riding steadily, with corresponding chain skew. A slightly larger chainring than the 30-tooth one fitted would help. With 34 teeth at the front, there would still be enough small gears left for steep climbs.

The premium options: Also available with Rohloff or Pinion

Alternatively, Patria also offers a classic 3 x 10 drive or premium options such as Pinion or Rohloff. Light and weather protection are impeccable on the Patria, the SON dynamo and the B & M IQ-X headlight are beyond reproach. The Schwalbe Hurricane tyres combine easy rolling with some grip, even off the beaten track. The XT brakes and the XT hub with a small engagement angle and fine sound also convey the feeling of a high-quality all-rounder at a fair price.

BIKE review of the Patria Kosmos

Strengths

• Nimble handling
• Steel frame made in Bielefeld
• Extensive warranty and weight release
• fair price for a factory bike

Weaknesses

• Borderline short translation

Overall grade: 1.9

For details on the composition of the overall score and comparison with other bikes of similar price and range of use, see below.

BIKE conclusion: Premium bike for steel fans

Patria shows that even a high-quality trekking bike with a steel frame made in Germany can remain competitive. Fun and agile handling and a full warranty and weight approval. When it comes to riding stability with heavy luggage and the gear ratio, others can score even higher. - Barbara Merz-Weigandt, Editor-in-Chief MYBIKE

The Patria Kosmos in comparison: How the Kosmos compares to the competition

In our latest test, we tested five touring bikes from Maxx, Norwid, Patria, Tout Terrain and Velotraum. The requirement: A classy chassis for long tours up to travelling the world, with reasonably affordable prices of a maximum of around 4000 euros. Here is an overview of the Patria Kosmos compared to the competition.

Note: The assessment is category-dependent and is primarily used for comparison within the test group. The grades awarded are based on school grades. A grade of 2.5 is awarded for average performance without any shortcomings.