S-pedelecs: 8 fast models in a high-speed test

Really step on the gas - with your own muscle power and half a kilowatt of engine power. Who wouldn't be tempted? S-pedelecs promise riding fun and can also be a sensible alternative to other modes of transport on longer journeys. However, anyone flirting with the fast class needs to rethink. S-pedelecs may look like extra-fast bicycles, but from a legal point of view they are mopeds that require registration and insurance. On the one hand, this brings speed and pleasure, but on the other hand it can also be frustrating.

This means that cycle paths are taboo - but a top speed of 45 km/h is too slow to easily keep up with car traffic in the city. The fast class is also only suitable as a family transporter to a limited extent, because despite being categorised as a moped, only one person is allowed on the bike. Children are not even allowed on the trailer. As mopeds are subject to registration, modifications are also taboo. If you want to change the brakes, lighting system, seat post or wheels, for example, you will lose your operating licence. Only what is stated on the registration certificate is permitted - just like a car.

And yet: the fast class makes sense. Not exactly in busy city traffic, where you all too often slow down car traffic. But for commuters who have to cover longer distances on country roads, the S-pedelec is a real alternative to the car. Of course, the S-Pedelec is not completely effortless. If you want to reach 45 km/h on the flat, you have to pedal at around 120 to 150 watts, depending on the drive and bike. Averagely trained riders can reach an average speed of 28 to 35 km/h on longer distances with the S-Pedelec. Compared to normal bicycles or pedelecs, this is really fast.

The S-Pedelecs at a glance

• Flyer T8.2 HS
• Hercules Alassio E-45
• Kalkhoff Integrale i10 Speed
• Koga E-XLR8
• Riese & Müller Delite GT Touring HS (E-BIKE test winner)
• Stevens E-Triton 45
• Stromer ST1X
• Victoria E-Special 10.7

Lightweight construction versus stability

Until recently, speeds of up to 45 km/h were reserved for mopeds and scooters. Compared to their design, S-pedelecs are much lighter - which does not necessarily mean that they are less safe. From an energy point of view, the lightweight construction of the wheels even makes sense. However, in order to withstand the forces that occur at high speeds, the speed bikes must be built very sturdily. Compared to 25 km/h, the kinetic energy increases by a factor of 3.2 at 45 km/h. Stiff frames, robust forks and secure handlebars, heavy-duty wheels and safe brakes at all times are mandatory for S-pedelecs.

We were very curious to see what design ideas the manufacturers had to fulfil the high demands placed on the bikes. The weight provides an initial indication, but it is not a consistent criterion that characterises all S-pedelecs. Five of the test bikes weighed more than 26 kilos, four even more than 28 kilos, while the average weight of normal pedelecs in our test was around 24 kilos. The lightest bike in the S-Class test (Koga E-XLR8), on the other hand, weighs just under 23 kilos, but still impresses with good frame stiffness values in the lab test. Riese & Müller Delite and Stromer ST1X share the class victory in terms of frame stiffness. Both achieve excellent values. In contrast, the frames of the Stevens Triton and the Victoria 10.7 are less stiff, although the low test bench values do not have a negative effect in the ride tests; both pedelecs are very stable and easy to control even at high speeds.

The equipment with high-quality hydraulic disc brakes is to be rated as consistently positive. With the exception of the lightweight Koga, which is equipped with relatively small 160-millimetre discs at the front and rear, all bikes have discs with a diameter of 180 millimetres. The Hercules Alassio even offers 203-millimetre discs on the front and rear wheels. The stems, handlebars and seat posts of none of the models give cause for criticism either.

We take a critical view of the lack of suspension forks on S-Pedelecs. Bumping over rough road surfaces or even through potholes at more than 40 km/h is very uncomfortable to say the least and can be quite dangerous. On the one hand, rough impacts on the front wheel can knock the handlebars out of your hands in extreme cases, and on the other hand, the wheels, fork and frame are subjected to enormous stress. Anyone opting for S-pedelecs with a rigid fork - for example Koga and Stromer in the test - should sit in the saddle in an active, focussed and controlled manner, similar to a racing cyclist, in order to safely transfer the power of the S-pedelec to the road.

Performance equals performance?

The motor power is of greater interest in the fast class than in pedelecs with assistance up to 25 km/h. Even though almost all manufacturers utilise the maximum rated power of 500 watts, there are significant differences in the power delivery. Incidentally, rated power and maximum power are two different things - a look at the data of the Bosch Performance Line drive reveals this. Unlike its 500-watt competitors, the motor has "only" 350 watts of rated power. And yet its power in no way lags behind the competition, on the contrary.

In our test field, Stevens E-Triton, Koga E-XLR 8, Riese & Müller Delite and Victoria E-Spezial are equipped with the power pack. The 500-watt Panasonic motor on the Flyer T8.2 is different: it is a little stingy with power when accelerating, but also gets the bike and cyclist up to top speed satisfactorily. Derby Cycle uses the latest evolutionary stage of its own Impulse Evo RS Speed drive on its Integrale i10 and remains true to its motor tuning philosophy: good, but not excessive power delivery, as well as sensitive and effective gear shifting. Typical of the Impulse drive unit is also the very good energy management: the drive unit stood out in our range test with its very low energy consumption.

Compared to the centre motors, the two rear hub motors in the test field stand out with a noticeable increase in performance. Because there are no frictional losses due to the chain, chainrings and sprockets, they can transfer their full power to the hub. However, direct drive motors normally require more energy than mid-drive motors. We were therefore surprised that the energy consumption of the Cyro drive on the Stromer is very limited; it is no greater than that of the mid-motor competition. In contrast, the otherwise very successful SR Suntour motor on the Hercules sucked a good 20 per cent more energy out of the battery during our range test.

If you expect S-pedelecs to have the kind of pushing assistance that you are familiar with from pedelecs, you will have to change your ways. Most manufacturers replace this with a so-called starting aid, which accelerates the S-pedelec to around 20 km/h at the touch of a button (see interview on p. 68). If you press the button, it is best to sit on the bike. If you walk alongside, you will quickly lose control.

The details of the test bikes

A tester's opinion: fun or fear?

by Anette Jacoby, BIKE assistant and enthusiastic long-term tester

As far as pedelec riding is concerned, I'm torn. I have already been able to test various S-Pedelecs over several months and have also used them on many summer days for my commute to work: more than 40 kilometres from the countryside to the southern edge of Munich and back. I was impressed by how quickly you can cover even longer distances without much effort. With a pannier bag on the bike, you can also do small shopping trips - a great alternative to the car. And anyone who has ever catapulted themselves up to 45 km/h with their own pedal power and the vehement support of 500 watts of motor power knows that it's also simply fun.

What scares me, however, is the lack of awareness among other road users - whether car drivers, pedestrians or non-motorised cyclists - who are not (yet) familiar with the silent pedal rockets: Almost always, fellow road users react with surprise or even shock. When overtaking on country roads, car drivers misjudge what kind of bike is in front of them, don't know what an S-pedelec actually is (oh, a licence plate? Why??) and don't expect a normal-looking bike to come along at a speed that even highly trained racing cyclists can only achieve with considerable effort. I feel safer on a motorbike.

I would only ride an S-pedelec in the city in exceptional cases - and in gentle eco mode. The problem in cities: You become a hate object on the road. Drivers honk at you and point out the cycle paths - but you're not allowed to use them (it would also be life-threatening for other cyclists and pedestrians). So the number one rule in the city is: ride defensively!

My conclusion: If the circumstances are right - you live in the country, commute on country roads without cycle paths and work on the outskirts of the city - S-pedelecs are an absolute asset. If e-bikes become even more reliable in terms of technical refinements and batteries in the future, there will be an S-pedelec in the garage alongside my mountain bike. However, it would be more important for the general public and more promising for the future to raise the speed limit for normal e-bikes and pedelecs from 25 to 30 km/h with the combined efforts of manufacturers, e-bikers and legislators in order to make this type of bike more attractive and allow it to "swim along" better in city traffic.

What works - and what doesn't? - Interview with Julian Zwick, Tüv Süd

There are currently contradictory statements about how S-pedelecs must be equipped and where you are allowed to ride them. we wanted to know exactly and asked TÜV SÜD in Munich.

E-BIKE The type of helmet required for S-pedelec riders is the subject of controversial debate. Is a bicycle helmet enough?

Due to their maximum design speed of 45 km/h, Zwick S-Pedelecs are clearly categorised as mopeds by law in Germany. Anyone riding such a vehicle on the road therefore also needs a helmet, as is mandatory for comparable vehicles such as scooters.

How old do you have to be to ride an S-Pedelec? Do you need a driving licence?

Due to the classification as a moped, you need a category AM driving licence. This has replaced the old categories S and M or 4 and 5 since 2013 and can be obtained at the age of 16. It is included in the car driving licence.

On normal pedelecs, children may be carried in a child seat or trailer. Does this also apply to S-pedelecs?

S-pedelecs are usually only designed and approved for one person. To be certain, it helps to check the vehicle's operating licence to see whether a second seat has been approved. If so, all legal requirements apply to this as with a conventional two-seater moped. This also applies, for example, with regard to whether or not a special child seat may be fitted. Children may not be transported in the trailer of an S-pedelec or conventional moped, as the Passenger Transport Act, which applies to motor vehicles, generally prohibits people travelling in the trailer. Although there are exceptions, these usually only apply to vehicles such as buses and coaches, which then also have to fulfil special requirements. Incidentally, normal cargo trailers may only be operated with a coupling approved for S-pedelecs or mopeds, the attachment of which is subject to certain legal regulations and may have to be entered in the vehicle operating licence.

Are S-pedelecs allowed on cycle paths that are open to mopeds?

S-pedelecs have a maximum speed of 45 km/h. This means that at least the newly registered vehicles are too fast to be used on cycle paths, even if these are authorised for mopeds. Incidentally, S-pedelecs are also not allowed to travel in the opposite direction on one-way streets that are not authorised for bicycles. The same applies to forest and farm tracks that are closed to motorised vehicles.

Do S-pedelecs have to be equipped with daytime running lights and brake lights?

The regulations for mopeds apply; a specific, additional daytime running light would be possible, but is not mandatory. In terms of lighting, the S-pedelec must be equipped like a scooter. According to the StVZO, a brake light is not required for two-wheeled mopeds with a national operating licence up to 50 km/h, but is permitted. If a brake light is fitted, however, criteria such as type-approved design, mounting height or illuminance must be met.

Many S-Pedelecs have a so-called starting aid. Like the pushing aid on a pedelec, it is operated via a button, but accelerates the bike far beyond the 6 km/h permitted on a pedelec. How fast is an S-Pedelec allowed to travel independently?

The problem is that there is currently no differentiation between S-pedelecs and e-bikes in terms of authorisation. Whether using a push button or twist grip, the vehicle can be accelerated up to 45 km/h as it is legally a moped. However, for reasons of product liability, many manufacturers do not do this.

The automatically folding kickstand on S-Pedelecs can be a nuisance. A little push is often enough and the kickstand folds in when the bike is parked. Is this mandatory or would a switch that prevents the motor from starting when the stand is folded out also be permissible?

Theoretically, a motor stop switch could also be installed instead of the self-retracting stand. It must be ensured that the drive cannot be activated when the stand is folded out - just like on a motorbike.

The 8 S-Pedelecs in the test

Flyer T8.2 HS

Not many manufacturers have a frame with a low step-through for S-pedelecs in their programme, Flyer is traditionally one of them. With the T8.2 HS, there is no need to worry that the possible high speed could overstretch the frame. The pedelec impresses with its high frame rigidity and very good weight distribution for this frame design. Even at high speeds, the Flyer follows the chosen lane willingly and without a hitch; it is pleasantly manoeuvrable and steers neutrally. The slightly offset handlebars make it easier to control. This makes the bike suitable for occasional riders or beginners in the fast class. The relatively upright posture and good riding comfort also contribute to this. The handlebar height can also be adjusted to suit different riders using the speedlifter on the stem. The Panasonic drivetrain is also suitable for inexperienced riders as it is sensitive and smooth. SRAM's combined hub/ derailleur gear system is a good match for the drive system, as it significantly expands the gear range with small gear steps.

Conclusion: Uncomplicated entry into the fast class. Very good frame with low step-through, stable ride

details

• Overall ranking: 1,6
• Comfort: 2,1
• Fork: SR Suntour NCX
• Suspension: Telescopic seat post
• Security: 1,4
• Brakes: Disc, Magura MT4e
• Flutter safety: Very high
• Drive: 2,0
• Motor system/battery: Panasonic MM/540, 648 Wh
• derailleur/gearbox: SRAM DD3, 9-speed; 11-34
• Pushing aid: yes, up to 5 km/h
• Practice: 1,8
• TyresSchwalbe Marathon Plus Reflex 40-622
• Weight (v/h in %): 28.9 kg (42/58)
• Service: 1,0
• Guarantee: 10 years frame
• CE: Yes

Geometry

• Wheelbase: 1,208 mm
• Saddle height above ground: 1,008 mm
• Step-through height: 461 mm
• Seat length (min/max): 33/113 mm
• Handlebar rise (min/max): 17/163 mm
• Handlebar width: 620 mm
• Frame sizes: 45, 50,55, 60 cm
• permissible total weight: 149 kg
• Price**: 3,999 Euro

*The E-BIKE judgement is price-independent, weighting of the individual grades see table on page 69. Grading key according to school grades from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike.
***The values of the test model are printed in bold.

Hercules Alassio E-45

To increase frame rigidity, the Alassio frame has an additional tube. The large battery is also attached to this, which is also well secured to the down tube. The elaborate frame and the large 670 Wh battery increase the weight: 30 kilos make the Hercules the second heaviest bike in the test after the R & M Delite. However, the new SR Suntour hub motor in the rear wheel has enough power and the weight is hardly noticeable when riding. The drive also impresses with its unusually good response to pedalling. The Hercules is trimmed for stable directional stability. It resists turning a little, but is still sufficiently manoeuvrable. We liked the inspection windows for checking the hydraulic oil on the Tektro brake levers. What we don't like is that the cover for the motor electronics has no seal, which means that the inner workings are inadequately protected against moisture.

ConclusionVery rigid frame and reliably stable riding characteristics. Powerful, well-regulated rear wheel hub motor

Alternative: The Hercules Alassio is also available with a ladies' frame. With the same equipment at the same price.

details

• Overall ranking: 1,8
• Comfort: 2,2
• ForkSuntour MT E-45
• Suspension: none
• Security: 1,4
• BrakesDisc, Tektro Dorado
• Flutter safety: very high
• Drive: 1,7
• Motor system/batterySR Suntour HR hub / 670 Wh
• derailleur gearsShimano Deore XT, 10-speed; 48;11-34
• Starting aidyes, up to18 km/h
• Practice:2,2
• Tyres: Schwalbe Energizer Plus Reflex47-622
• Weight (v/h in %): 30.0 kg (42/58)
• Service: 3.5
• Guarantee: 2 years

Geometry

• Wheelbase: 1,120 mm
• Saddle height above ground: 1,010 mm
• Seat length (min/max): 615/689 mm
• Handlebar camber (min/max): 13/101 mm
• Handlebar width: 630 mm
• Frame sizes: 50, 55, 60 cm
• Permissible total weight: 135 kg
• Price: 3.999 Euro

Kalkhoff Integrale i10 Speed

The integration of the battery into the frame tube not only looks good, the design is also likely to contribute to the high frame rigidity. Together with the perfect weight distribution - 50 per cent each on the front and rear wheel - the bike impresses with agile and at the same time very stable handling. Even at high speeds, the Integrale can hardly be knocked off track, which is also thanks to the air suspension fork, which effectively absorbs the harshness of road bumps but reacts less sensitively to small bumps. The interaction between the drive and the XT derailleur works very well. The Impulse motor's sensor system recognises gear changes at the start and briefly reduces the motor power for this purpose. This results in very smooth gear changes. Unfortunately, the cables of the brake light switches lead into the Magura brake levers and are prone to breakage. Overall, a very well-balanced bike that is also predestined for long distances.

ConclusionVery agile and directionally accurate to ride, efficient drive with gearshift interruption. Clear design.

AlternativeThe Integrale is also available in a ladies' version. With the same equipment at the same price.

details

• Overall rating: 1.4
• Comfort: 2,2
• ForkRST Puls Air, lockable
• Suspension: none
• Security: 1,2
• BrakesDisc, Magura MT5
• Flutter safety: very high
• Drive: 1,4
• Motor system/batteryImpulse Evo RS Speed/603 Wh
• derailleur gearsShimano XT, 10-speed; 44; 11-34
• Starting aidyes, up to 8 km/h
• Practice: 1,6
• TyresSchwalbe Big Ben Reflex 50-622
• Weight (v/h in %): 26.2 kg (50/50)
• Service: 1,0
• Guarantee: 10 years frame
• CE: Yes

Geometry

• Wheelbase: 1,112 mm
• Saddle height above ground: 1.018 mm
• Seat length (min/max): 634/685 mm
• Handlebar camber (min/max): -58/56 mm
• Handlebar width: 690 mm
• Frame sizes: 47 cm, 50 cm, 55 cm, 60 cm
• Permissible total weight: 130 kg

Koga E-XLR8

The riding position of the E-XLR 8 encourages fast riding. You sit relatively stretched out in the saddle, with a lot of weight on your wrists and therefore on the front wheel. This makes the Koga very directional and at the same time quite manoeuvrable. The shape of the handlebars and ergonomic grips put your hands and wrists in a comfortable position, but the rigid fork transfers impacts almost unfiltered to your arms.

This is another reason why the Koga belongs in the hands of sporty riders who can do without comfort in favour of agile handling and absorb small bumps with their body tension. Those who can cope with this will experience a bike that can be considered manageable in the best sense of the word thanks to its stiff frame, low weight and balanced weight distribution. Neatly polished weld seams and the sensibly selected equipment round off the picture of the beautifully finished bike. We did not like the cable routing of the brake light switches. They lead into the moving part of the brake lever and are therefore exposed to constant bending stresses, which can lead to breakage at some point.

ConclusionSporty S-pedelec, tough but very agile. Lightweight, handy bike, beautifully finished.

details

• Overall ranking: 1,8
• Comfort: 3,1
• ForkKoga Pinza DB Carbon rigid
• Suspension: none
• Security: 1,6
• BrakesDisc, Magura MTE
• Flutter safety: very high
• Drive: 1,9
• Motor system/batteryBosch Performance/400 Wh
• derailleur gearsShimano SLX, 10-speed; 11-36
• Starting aidyes, up to 14 km/h
• Tyres: Vredestein Perfect-E Reflex 40-622
• Weight (v/h in %): 22.8 kg (44/56)
• Guarantee: 2 years
• CE: Yes

Geometry

• Wheelbase: 1,077 mm
• Saddle height above ground: 1.002 mm
• Seat length: 683 mm
• Handlebar riser: -8 mm
• Handlebar width: 620 mm
• Frame sizes: 50, 54, 57, 60 cm
• Permissible total weight: not specified
• Price: 3,999 euros

Riese & Müller Delite GT Touring HS

Although the Delite GT Touring is the most expensive bike in the test, it is also probably the most consistent interpretation of an S-pedelec at the moment. With full suspension, an elaborate rear swing arm, wide tyres and two 500 Wh batteries, it looks more like a moped. The design has a noticeably positive effect on the riding behaviour: The Delite runs stably and safely, rides extremely comfortably - and achieves a long range to boot. Despite the high weight of almost 32 kilos, the bike is easy to manoeuvre, is directionally stable and lively at high speeds and can also be controlled safely above 40 km/h. This is where the stiff frame and sensitive full suspension really come into their own. The Delite is perfectly finished down to the last detail and equipped for all weather conditions. Last but not least, the Bosch Nyon display with navigation system and fitness functions predestines the Delite GT Touring for frequent and long-distance riders.

ConclusionInnovative concept for the fast class. High level of comfort even at high speeds, perfectly equipped and finished

details

• Overall rating: 1.3
• Comfort: 1.2
• Fork: Suntour Aion L0-R
• Suspension: X-Fusion 02
• Safety: 1.2
• Brakes: Disc, Magura MT4
• Flutter safety: very high
• Drive: 1.4
• Motor system/battery: Bosch Performance/500, 1,000 Wh
• Derailleur gears: Shimano SLX, 11-speed; 11-42
• Start-off aid: yes, up to 14 km/h
• Practice: 1.6
• Tyres: Schwalbe Super Moto-X 62-584
• Weight (v/h in %): 31.7 kg (46/54)
• Service: 2.0
• Guarantee: 5 years frame
• CE certification available

Geometry

• Wheelbase: 1,217 mm
• Saddle height above ground: 1,029 mm
• Seat length: 669 mm
• Handlebar riser: 43 mm
• Handlebar width: 650 mm
• Frame sizes: 49, 54, 56 cm
• Permissible total weight140 kg
• Price6,297 Euro

Stevens E-Triton 45

The Stevens manages the balancing act between the classic look of a bicycle with balanced handling and the high riding safety of a fast e-bike with ease, literally. The E-Triton weighs just over 23 kilos, runs very well in a straight line and is manoeuvrable at the same time. On the test bench, the frame stiffness is relatively low, but the bike rides very safely and accurately even at high speeds. The moderately sporty riding position, a sensitive suspension fork, the comfortable saddle and pleasantly wide handlebars make the bike a pleasure to ride. As with the Koga, which is also quite light, the Bosch Performance drive accelerates extremely quickly. The equipment is of high quality, as is the workmanship. The E-Triton combines sporty genes with great suitability for everyday use and is also suitable for longer distances.

ConclusionLightweight pedelec with sporty, balanced riding behaviour. Top equipment and workmanship

Alternative: The women's version of the E-Triton is identically equipped and costs the same as the men's bike.

details

• Overall ranking: 1,8
• Comfort: 2,2
• ForkSR Suntour NCX E RLR Air
• Suspension: none
• Security: 2,0
• BrakesDisc, Tektro Dorado
• Flutter safety: high
• Drive: 1,6
• Motor system/batteryBosch Performance/500 Wh
• derailleur gearsShimano XT, 10-speed; 11-32
• Starting aidyes, up to 15 km/h
• Practice: 1,4
• Tyres: Schwalbe Marathon Green Guard 40-622
• Weight (v/h in %): 23.2 kg (48/52)
• Service: 2,5
• Guarantee: 5 years frame and fork
• CE: Yes

Geometry

• Wheelbase: 1,142 mm
• Saddle height above ground: 1.006 mm
• Seat length: 678 mm
• Handlebar camber: 58 mm
• Handlebar width: 660 mm
• Frame sizes: 52, 55, 58, 61 cm
• Permissible total weight140 kg
• Price: 3,699 Euro

Stromer ST1X

The Stromer ST1 X is aimed at sporty pedelec fans. The very stiff, compact-looking frame with a short wheelbase and the 26-inch tyres make the bike extremely agile. The downside of the sporty design with rigid fork and racing saddle: hardly any riding comfort - even if the 55 millimetre wide tyres cushion the worst impacts on wrists and seat flesh. The Stromer can be manoeuvred around the tightest of bends with lightning speed. The Cyro rear hub motor fits in well with the sporty design. It responds well and only overruns slightly when you stop pedalling. When pedalling hard, the power only develops moderately and comes on fully after about half a pedal rotation; then the drive is not stingy with power and accelerates the pedelec, which weighs a good 28 kilos, quickly. The Swiss have integrated the display into the top tube, which means that it is out of the usual field of vision when riding; you have to look away from the road more than usual to read it.

ConclusionWeasel-fast and agile 26-inch bike with plenty of power. Super-stiff frame, but limited riding comfort

Alternative: The Stromer is also available with a trapezoidal frame. With the same equipment at the same price.

details

• Overall ranking: 1,8
• Comfort: 3,0
• ForkAluminium, rigid
• Suspension: none
• Security: 1,3
• BrakesDisc, Tektro Dorado
• Flutter safety: very high
• Drive: 1,8
• Motor system / batteryCyro Drive / 618, 814 Wh
• derailleur gearsShimano SLX, 10-speed; 52; 11-42
• Starting aidyes, up to 20 km/h
• Practice: 2,5
• TyresSchwalbe Ballon Big Ben 55-559
• Weight (v/h in %)28.1 kg (42/58)
• Service :3.0
• Guarantee :3 years Frame
• CE :Yes

Geometry
Wheelbase: 1,065 mm

• Saddle height above ground: 1.009 mm
• Seat length: 681 mm
• Handlebar riser: 10 mm
• Handlebar width: 640 mm
• Frame sizes: 17, 20, 22 inch
• Permissible total weight140 kg
• Price: 4,990 Euro

Victoria E-Special 10.7

If you are looking for a commuter bike suitable for everyday use, the Victoria E-Spezial is the right choice. The well-equipped and 24-kilo bike is uncomplicated and easy to handle. This is not least due to the well-balanced drivetrain with Bosch motor and Shimano XT derailleur gears. Although the frame of the E-Spezial only has a low stiffness value, this does not detract from the good handling. When travelling in a straight line, the pedelec runs with confidence-inspiring stability and directional stability, and the Victoria can also handle fast cornering without reacting nervously. The strength of the E-Spezial is its good riding comfort: a comfortable riding position and the sensitive suspension fork mean that even longer tours are not a torture. We liked the neatly finished frame and the solid pannier rack.

Conclusion: Uncomplicated everyday bike with good riding comfort. Well equipped and cleanly finished

Alternative: The women's version of the E-Spezial 10.7 is available with the same equipment at the same price.

details

• Overall ranking: 1,9
• Comfort: 2,2
• ForkRST Pulse Remote Lockout
• Suspension: none
• Security: 2,1
• BrakesDisc, Magura MT5
• Flutter safety: high
• Drive: 1,6
• Motor system/batteryBosch Performance/500 Wh
• Derailleur gearsShimano XT, 10-speed; 11-32
• Starting aidyes, up to 15 km/h
• Practice: 1,2
• TyresSchwalbe Durano E Reflex 40-622
• Weight (v/h in %): 23.8 kg (49.51)
• Service: 3.0
• Guarantee: 5 years frame and fork
• CE: Yes

Geometry

• Wheelbase: 1,115 mm
• Saddle height above ground: 1,014 mm
• Seat length (min/max): 648/684 mm
• Handlebar rise (min/max): 56/117 mm
• Handlebar width: 620 mm
• Frame sizes: 50, 55, 60 cm
• Permissible total weight: 130 kg
• Price: 3,699 Euro