ExtraEnergy
July 2010 · 25 €
The Pedelec and E-Bike Magazine
Special Report Design
Test Reports July 2010
T he technical committee of Battery Safety Organisation BAT SO warmly congratulates
Phylion for the first BAT SO certification.
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Foto: Picture shows participants of the BATSO meeting on 22. and 23. March 2010 in Shenzen.
.tuv.com ww
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents introduction Editorial Market report Columns
3 4 7
Special report: Design Introduction Interview Road test A2B Experience GRACE BrandNew Award Experience Cytronex Shimano motor Prototypes Burger's vision Eflow's vision EnergyBus
8 12 15 17 21 22 25 26 28 30 32
Advice Buying Price Glossary Motors Battery · Life cycle Battery · Recycling Battery · Safety Safety · GS certificate Pedelec personality test Product groups
36 37 41 44 46 48 49 50 52 53
the test Introduction QFD method Test riders Measuring technology Data Test track Reference bike Product report
56 60 62 64 66 69 70 72
city · Easy ave · Eagle BH Bikes · Emotion Avant Diamant · SAPHIR+ Gepida · Nedao Cruiser Heinzmann · Estelle Tour Kalkhoff · Pro Connect Kalkhoff · Sahel Pro Disc Kettler · Layana Hybritec Kettler · Obra Hybritec Koga-Miyata · tesla Tour Moover · Comfort CMF Prophete · Alurex Raleigh · Dover de luxe F Raleigh · Dover de luxe Premium Tschibo · Powerbike Victoria · Malente Sport Victoria · Münsterland Vital Bike · Tour Y Winora · town e:xp
city · Business Dolphin · Express
city · mixed mobility Flyer · Faltrad NS Pacific Cycles · IF Reach City DC
76 78 80 82 84 86 88 90 92 94 96 98 100 102 104 106 108 110 112
leisure · tour Giant · Twist Express RS0 144 Kalkhoff · Agattu XXL Pedelec C 146 Vitalbike · individual Sport Diamant 148
leisure · sport Diamant · ZOUMA SUPREME+ KTM · eRace
152 154
leisure · wellness BH Bikes · Emotion Sport Max+ Heinzmann · Estelle Sport KTM · eCross Leviatec · Argentic Moover · Speed SPD Third Element · eSpire
158 160 162 164 166 168
Transport · family Sachs · Elo-Bike de luxe
172
transport · utility Nihola · Pedelec
176
others Born2Ride · Model 2010 Excelsior · Alu City ISD · Speedy Aluminum Lazybike.com · Lazydoctor Schmidt · Sylt
180 182 184 186 188
overview Trade directory Index of all vehicles
190 194
116
120 122
comfort · city comfort daum electronic · ergo_bike pedelec Flyer · c9 premium Flyer · i:SY Street Flyer · X-Serie MTB Sachs · Electra 3 Ultra Motor · A2B Hybrid
126 128 130 132 134 136
comfort · classic Magna Marque · Styriette
140
outro GoPedelec! 196 LEV Conference 197 About us 198 Legal notices 200
ExtraEnergy.org 1
2窶ウxtraEnergy.org
Editorial
Editorial Dear reader, You are looking at the second edition of the ExtraEnergy Magazine. It has been a hard piece of work for the entire team and is our gift to ExtraEnergy on its 18th birthday. The past 18 years have been exciting at ExtraEnergy. (The illustration on our cover links the past with the future.) All this time ExtraEnergy has promoted “hybrid muscle-electric vehicles”, today known as pedelecs and e-bikes. Sometimes these terms lead to confusion (read on page 41). Eighteen years ago practically no market existed for light electric vehicles (LEVs). Today this is one of the few growing market segments in the bicycle industry (page 4). The “electrification virus” (page 7) has affected the bicycle and is spreading fast. The bigger the crisis in the oil industry, the louder the cry for alternatives. A reorientation is taking place. Owners of high-consumption gasoline vehicles look increasingly “uncool” and antiquated. Hybrid vehicles are the new status symbols. Their owners are perceived as “smart” and “environmentally conscious”. Growing demand and the emergence of new target groups call for new designs. No longer are pedelecs mere engine-driven bicycles. Models with style, prestige and concept are appearing on the market. In our feature section Design (from page 8) we focus on e-mobility design – in the past and in the future. Although, it must be added, this new mode of transport still has to find its “iconic shape”. With all the progress, discretion and safety are easily forgotten. A gold-rush mentality dominates the market and the struggle for customers grows fiercer by the day. Everyone promises everything and customers quickly lose perspective of what they actually get and for how much (page 37). Where should the motor at best be positioned (page 44) and which batteries last the longest (page 46)? Industry and the legislator are often overtaxed by the new species of vehicle with energy-packed batteries. If nobody knows anymore what is safe, someone must set a standard (page 48). ExtraEnergy awards certificates to vehicles which have passed its test successfully. They help show buyers the way. In total 25 electric vehicles, more diverse than ever before, were tested in the spring of 2010, and then compared to 22 vehicles tested in the autumn of 2009. Read all about these tests from page 56. ExtraEnergy crowned a winner in each of 10 product groups. Another 11 bicycles received the test seal “Very Good“ and 17 the seal “Good”. The results of these tests were distilled into product reports, which you’ll find in this magazine between pages 74 and 190. Dear reader, we suggest you take a closer look. But, always remain critical! On behalf of all ExtraEnergy employees.
— Nora Manthey
ExtraEnergy.org 3
market report
As if Electrified ExtraEnergy reports on Market Trends The Germans love their bicycles – with and without motors – like never before and spend more money than ever on their leisure and everyday life companion. The entire bicycle industry profits from this trend (total revenue rose to 13 billion € in 2009), but A growing number of people are discovering biking as a leisure activity. According to the federal government of Germany there are 73 million bicycles in the country. That is double the number of cars. The bicycle still is the fastest to get around in cities such as berlin and Munich. But, traffic congestion in the cycle lane is a daily condition in city areas increasingly experienced beyond rush hours. When swarms of cyclists gather at traffic lights, bikers suddenly discover how it feels to be stuck in a traffic jam. Every now and then, this scene is invaded by an electric bicycle. Then all eyes turn to this “miracle vehicle”, which is up and away shortly thereafter. Racing cyclists wearing tight jerseys stare enviously when a girl in jeans and high heels passes them on a stylish red e-bike.
especially the segment for light electric vehicles (LEVs) and its specialist dealers. Consumers are spoilt for choice when manufacturers respond to the high expectations of cyclists for road performance and design.
E-bikes – biggest growth segment in bicycle economy
Over 4 million bicycles are sold in Germany each year. In 2009 “only” 150,000 electric bicycles were sold (according to the ZweiradIndustrie-Verband, Germany’s bicycle industry federation). With a market share of only 4%, e-vehicles seem to be marginal products. Still, the LEV industry is elated. Why? Because e-vehicles have doubled their market share in the past two years, making e-vehicles the strongest growth segment in the German bicycle economy. In 2008 Germany’s bicycle sector registered growth of 5.2%, despite the financial and economic crisis. In the Netherlands, the leading European market, sales of pedelecs jumped by around 40% from 2008 to 2009, reported the Dutch industry federation BOVAG. According to the industry exPedelecs and e-bikes are still novelties on Ger- pert Han Goes about 200,000 pedelecs were man streets. But, not in the media, which sold in 2009, representing 16% of all bicycles have identified them as the latest trend with sold and between 35 and 45% of total sector a growing support base. turnover. The biggest contributor was the Accell group with its brands Sparta, Batavus and 4 ExtraEnergy.org
KogaMiyata. ExtraEnergy chairman Hannes Neupert reckons the Netherlands is about three years ahead of Germany as far as the pedelec market development is concerned. He estimates the German market grew by about 30% in 2009. Europe-wide pedelec and e-bike sales added up to 750,000 vehicles in 2009, according to the Electric Bike Worldwide report of industry insiders Frank Jamerson and ED Benjamin. This was 25% up on 2008, when 500,000 electric bicycles were sold. ExtraEnergy considers these estimates to be realistic. Neupert expects the established manufacturers to grow their sales by 100% in 2010 and double (or even triple!) their turnovers. Neupert expects annual sales of e-vehicles to be between 1.5 and 3.25 million in Germany by the year 2018 for a tenfold increase in 9 years. The ZIV abstains from market forecasting. For 2010, the industry association estimates modest sales of 180,000 in Germany, whereas ExtraEnergy expects sale to rise to between 200,000 and 300,000 vehicles.
market report
Turnover records in trade and industry
solutions. Companies such as Shimano, Porsche, Bosch and other big names see their fuIt becomes clear that traders are already ex- ture in this field and invest in new motors, or periencing golden times, when one looks at prestigious vehicles. their turnovers from e-vehicles – and not to the volumes sold. In stores specialized in pe- New design for new target groups delecs in Germany, a pedelec costs on average In this issue we focus on product design. Also 1,700 €, which is more than most other types because it is a key factor in the market sucof bicycles. So, pedelecs and e-bikes generate cess of many manufacturers. A few years ago substantially higher turnovers and margins. the market was still dominated by low-priced In comparison: the average price of a “normal” and Dutch-style bicycles giving a “comfortbicycle in German bicycle stores was 500 € in able ride”. Today the trend is towards model 2009. What is more, the demand for electric variety and – as many manufacturers are dovehicles is rising in the upmarket, premium ing - towards personalized and sporty design. quality segment. According to official statis- Fast Pedelecs are on the rise, as well as bicytics, this trend is also observed by specialized cles for off-road use and fun machines. At the vendors for conventional bicycles. Quali- same time, the product ranges for everyday ty matters more than ever to buyers who are city use and easy-going leisure use are being willing to pay decent prices. For example, the extended. Our product classification clearly fast bike Grace costs 7,000 €. Yet, the first run demonstrates the general trend towards variemanufactured sold out quickly. ty. This aspect is also reflected in the relatively Vehicle and component manufacturers are wide price range (look at the overview of price also benefitting from the positive trend. Par- groups in our Advice Section from page 37). ticularly well-established firms are now reaping the rewards of their early starts. For in- Product variety and the boom in sales resulted stance, Europe’s leading brand Sparta now in a multiplication of motors. While around earns millions every year for the Accell group. 10 motor manufacturers dominated the marThe Japanese multinational Panasonic, Eu- ket till now, there will be around 40 two years rope’s leading motor supplier, registered a from now, estimates ExtraEnergy. The market 200 million Euro turnover with its e-vehicle entry of Bosch and Shimano heralded the formotors already back in 2008. By now, almost mation of a new manufacturing infrastrucall bicycle manufacturers focus on electric ture. SRAM, Scheffler, Brose and others will
follow soon with their own pedelec motor systems. The presence of car manufacturers such as Porsche and Volkswagen in the pedelec market shows just how important LEVs have become in the vision of future transport. — Susanne Brüsch
A new trend Apart from technical progress, new design strategies and a growing product variety, the LEV industry also owes its success to a fundamental change in its image. What was smiled upon as a “pensioner’s bike” just a few years ago, now makes the headlines as a trend vehicle. The change started in 2008, when the mass media became interested in e-vehicles in a big way. Since 2009 pedelecs have been increasingly “in” in the media, retail, industry and among consumers. Rising gasoline and energy costs, as well as the financial and economic crisis, have triggered a rethink as far as transport is concerned. In the era of climate change and non-leadership on the global policy front (as demonstrated by the Copenhagen Climate Summit), pedelecs have emerged as pollution-free, modern and city vehicles promoted by local politicians. ExtraEnergy.org 5
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columns
The Bicycle is Incurably Infected by Hannes Neupert
For many years bicycle lovers clung to the notion that the bicycle – one of mankind’s biggest engineering achievements – was immune to the “virus” of electrification.
that the bicycle has been irrevocably contaminated by the “electrification virus” and is now incurably infected. In the ExtraEnergy view, the pure mechanical bicycle will survive in protected niches only and will be ruled by e-vehicles in all other segments of the market.
In the early 1990s, as one of the first ExtraEnergy test reports was published in Germany’s Radfahren magazine, then member magazine of the Allgemeiner Deutscher Fahrrad Club (ADFC), masses of hostile letters were received from enraged readers accusing the author (Hannes Neupert) of “sacrilege” for writing about “motorcycles” in a magazine known for holding the muscle-driven “velocipede” as the Holy Grail!
Other mechanical objects had previously gone through the same metamorphosis, for instance, the washboard, mechanical typewriter, mechanical telephone, mechanical automobile, mechanical/chemical camera and vinyl record. Today, they only survive as cult objects, or decorative elements. Some mourn the loss, but do we really need these products in our everyday lives? Of course, it was cool to place a vinyl To many cyclists the thought of a bicycle being supported by a motor record on the turntable and listen to scratchy, analog music. Today we was an affront. It was unthinkable to politically engaged and organized listen to “bits and bytes” in the form of a MP3 file. Vinyl records are cyclists to even test-ride a pedelec. In fact, for the sake of the self-im- only listened to when we crave a nostalgic trip. age and worldview one had to push the beloved bicycle uphill in nearly religious humility, or to work up a sweat as an act of self-denial for Anyone who tried to explain to a record dealer in the 80's how things a clean environment and to preserve creation for future generations… would turn out in his industry was held for a complete fool. Today, many bicycle manufacturers and dealers find themselves in a similar Looking back over the past 100 years, one detects a strong and unde- situation, in the sense that they are not yet willing to fully accept that niable trend towards electrification, which has mutated in the last 30 the virus of electrification has incurably infected the mechanical bicyyears into an intensified type of electrification. For a long time the bi- cle. The mechanical bicycle is dead, long live the pedelec! cycle industry seemed to be immune, but today it cannot be denied
Symptoms of the Electrification Virus A The virus is highly contagious, i.e. the number of potential buyers of electrified products is growing. This growth explodes (with the factor of 3 to 30) as new features, capabilities and ways of using the product are brought to market. B Infected customers are willing to pay a high price for the electrified version of the product. The many add-on features are crucial for this condition. Prices increase three- or four-fold. C The new type of product often has a much shorter lifespan, with a negative impact on the ecology. Due to the new technical possibilities, the product is outdated ever quicker and customers want updates in ever shorter cycles. Here EnergyBus presents itself as a potential solution – to benefit both the customer and the environment, even if many manufacturers continue to supply new equipment over and over. ExtraEnergy.org 7
Special Report Design – intro
8 ExtraEnergy.org
Special Report Design – intro
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5
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1 Grace 2 Copenhagen Wheel 3 EnergyBus Connector 4 Cytronex · Capo 5 Magna-Marque · Syriette 6 Ultra Motor · A2B Metro 7 KTM · eRace 8 Winora · town e:xp 9 Third Element · eSpire
ExtraEnergy.org 9
special report Design – Introduction
The Spotlight on Design Showing who you are
mbk · Ax-ion
KTM · e race
Diamant · Saphir
Porsche · Hybrid rs
10 ExtraEnergy.org
Personal products, such as clothes, accessories and vehicles are often expressions of status and lifestyle. Noticeable, white headphones demonstrate musical taste, jute bags with stylish labels demonstrate environmental consciousness and trendiness and hybrid vehicles stand for sustainable thinking. The market for light electric vehicles (LEVs) has been booming for over 2 years. In turn, this has brought more design options and new requirements to the market.
is selected, is eventually a question of cost – a factor which every successful designer in the industry must consider.
The assembly and fundamental design of the electric motor components are usually given. A BionX battery is typically located in the center of the bicycle, i.e. hung into the drinking bottle lugs. The engine is always close to the rear wheel. Design considerations are then concentrated around the motor. For example, by strengthening the frame and giving it a Two approaches sporty, robust look. Companies such as BionX Electric bicycles design is dominated by two and Bosch offer the possibility to customize approaches. The first opts to “hide the pow- their systems. For instance, the battery casing er” and conceal the electric components as far can be adjusted. as possible. This school of thought builds conventional bicycles with “only” an engine. On Advances in and acceptance of the e-technolothe other hand, “open power” followers take gy create new design options. By now, sporty the more conceptual approach to electric bi- bicycles with new motors are created with precycles, proudly highlighting the electric com- dominantly light, powerful and smaller lithponents. Both schools stay with the bicy- ium batteries, or engines. Batteries camoucle shape as it is traditionally known. Even flaged as, for example, drinking bottles are though ideas (often) arise for vehicles with the embodiment of hidden power. Young and original designs, the “icon shape” for the new trend-conscious individuals are the main tarenergy vehicle is still missing. get group. The emphasis is on “style” as well as on the competitive advantage of speed and hidden power sweat-free convenience. The product designer’s job is to improve existing products – to make them more functional, As the financial position of the automobile more beautiful, faster and more practical. In industry improves, it delivers e-vehicle prothat sense, an electric bicycle is a “better” bicy- totypes based on fresh ideas and new techcle. It is faster and moves people much further nology. In many cases, they are only built for with less efforts. Most pedelecs have a very bi- reasons of prestige. Nevertheless, the LEV incycle-like appearance. For the bicycle indus- dustry benefits from the technical innovation try, the design options are limited by this core of the automotive industry. concept bicycle on the one hand and the technical possibilities (such as the variety of available motors) on the other hand. Which motor
special report Design – Introduction
Cytronex · Quick CX
Copenhagen Wheel
open power With the increased acceptance of LEVs in the shape of pedelecs and e-bikes, more courageous concepts have come to the fore. People start to show their “electric heterogeneity”. In some cases design is used to differentiate vehicles, while others are fully concentrated on motors and components. When design is applied to differentiate, electric components are often purchased from specialized companies and adapted to individual needs. The design is in the vehicles, which increasingly only look like bicycles on first glance. In reality they are racing machines for individualists. Then there are the engine suppliers which develop e-vehicles to serve their own motors systems. Another group consists of manufacturers which develop in-house based on holistic concepts. To them, hybrid vehicles are a separate species as far as concept and design go. But, they stay with the roots of the bicycle. The result is often a combination of different bicycles, such as BMX, motorcycle and city bike.
Standardization for creative liberty One obstacle still stands in the way of LEV development (and particularly in public infrastructure projects). That is, lacking standardization. Electric components of LEVs, such as engine, battery, patch cords, control and screen, do not adhere to a standard. Instead, each company uses its own system with plug and communication record, binding it to that system and its variations when choosing the individual components. A mandatory standard for LEVs would make the combination of different systems possible and create opportunities for individualization. In turn, this would offer new freedom to designers and functionality.
Grace · Race
Third Element · eSpire
Standardization as limitation Finally, to some extent vehicle design is dictated by law. The Road Traffic Act (StVZO) stipulates strict rules for the safety of components. For example, rear view mirrors are prescribed for fast pedelecs (s-pedelecs), which can change the “look” of a bicycle substantially. However, these rules are increasingly adapted and the market has shown that buyers do not base their purchase decisions on whether a vehicle conforms to the law. Crucial are aspects such as appearance, function and road behavior. Maybe, because modern men wants to look good – even when they are on the move. What is popular depends on taste and the spirit of the time.
Projects by young designers integrate the electric components very skillfully, for example in the crossbars. But, the electric components remain the focus of their vehicle concepts. Concept studies go way beyond the vehicle and into society. Often the vehicle is not the focus of the creative process, but individual components, such as the battery or the engine. The system acts as interface between humans and the environment and collects user data; can — Nora Manthey be interconnected and installed as a kit on any bicycle. De-coupling the system from the bicycle brings a new freedom to users.
Ultra Motor · A2B hybrid
Michael Burger
Eflow ExtraEnergy.org 11
special report design – Interview
Reduced to the Essence, but Consistent and Sincere ExtraEnergy asked Norbert Haller about new vehicle ideas, designs and trans-generation style Norbert Haller has created and developed light electric vehicles (LEVs) for more than a decade. He is a passionate cyclist. When he was younger he was a BMXer and contested downhill races. As a designer, his special interest is in new transport concepts. As managing director of Berlin-based design office Craftsmen he has designed bicycles, pedelecs, small electric scooters and other LEVs
for international design and transgenerational style. Since 2007 Haller heads the design division of London-based Ultra Motor UK. The A2B of Ultra Motor is the latest example of his individualistic and minimalistic style. In this interview Haller offers a designer's view on what is important when it comes to innovative vehicle development.
ExtraEnergy Mr. Haller, do you feel the way “cool” and “stylish”, is not so important any people perceive design is changing? Is design more. More important is to have an adaptabecoming more important nowadays? ble, open attitude and the willingness to rethink, which is probably what we know today Norbert Haller Today people place a lot of as “being young at heart”. At least, this is valemphasis on design. Thanks to the iPod, life- id for the A2B rider. After all, the kids of yesstyle products have arrived in the mass mar- teryear, when I started out in BMX bikes, are ket. Being “stylish” is the trend, while being the adults of today. We participated in trend “young”, which used to be synonymous with sport, walked around wearing cool outfits and 12 ExtraEnergy.org
were the role models of today’s kids. And it is precisely those people, way past their teens, who are spreading the word about lifestyle products by buying Macs and iPods for their parents, and who are still creating new trends. Today, the understanding of what constitutes good design and lifestyle penetrates every generation.
special report design – Interview
EE Does this also apply to electric vehicles? What must industry do to achieve an individual market position for electric vehicles and so ensure demand for them in future?
It should present performance and integrate technology in such a way that it seems to have come from the same mold. A big challenge for all LEVs is to attain good road performance, without getting heavy. Here, we cannot orientate ourselves to the price bracket, or power of fuel-driven vehicles, but must define our NH Designing an attractive e-vehicle own specifications. A large part of the designis about more than mounting an engine er’s time is also spent on procuring parts and on an ordinary bicycle. We all know this. modifying them to fit into the function, style To substitute a petrol engine with an elec- and price specifications, as well as the legislatric engine isn’t good enough either, be- tive prescriptions. cause an electric system can barely match a motorcycle or scooter in terms of price and EE How long did it take to design the A2B? power. What we need are new concepts. The Ultra Motor A2B is an attempt to create a new NH I have been working on a modular vehivehicle generation – somewhere between the cle construction for years. With every project bicycle and motor scooter – which does jus- I got a bit closer to my goal. At Ultra Motor we tice to today’s market standards. Today, in my started designing the A2B in 2007. A big, mulopinion, vehicles should redefine city mobili- ticultural team was – and is – involved, with ty while looking cool, providing pleasure and locations in the USA, England, Germany and being practical all at the same time. In other Taiwan. In September 2008 we launched the words, tomorrow’s vehicles must be ecologi- U.S. version on the American market. The A2B cally friendly, be technically convincing and Metro EU conforms to EU law and was introduced to the EU in the autumn of 2009. This start new lifestyle trends. model has been available in Germany since EE What are the biggest challenges facing early 2010. We are now working on new A2B models. the developer of such a vehicle concept? NH The most difficult aspect is to find the best compromise between perfect design, modern technology, the best possible performance and low price for a particular vehicle class. The vehicle class, from a legal aspect alone, has considerable influence on component choice and the orientation toward specific target groups. In the end, the design should appeal to the respective target groups.
a futuristic racing style. The rider sits up straight on the bike and pedals in a relaxed way. It was particularly important to us to integrate the motor system completely in the overall design of the vehicle and give the A2B its own design language. EE What does this design language say? NH It says “reduced to the essence, but consistent and sincere”. By “reduced” I mean the design underlines the actual function of the vehicle. The structure itself is already the design. No plastic sheathing, because it quickly reduces a vehicle to a toy. “Consistent” refers to the design: clear lines instead of flourishes or other decoration which may militate against the straightforward style. All models of the A2B have a consistent design line. It is easy to spot an A2B, for instance, by its design language even when it does not have a logo. The cables are concealed as far as possible, so as to make a “tidy” impression. “Sincere” means: this vehicle shows what it is. One can see traces of the production process in the aluminum framework and weld seams. The simplicity gives it power. The A2B does not make a fast appearance, but is elegant, solid and authentic.
EE Wherever the A2B has been presented, it has been received enthusiastically. What is EE Not only have you set high design and performance standards for the A2B, but Ulresponsible for its unique style? tra Motor has also highlighted this in public. NH The A2B has a very modern appearance. How do you ensure the vehicle satisfies these The frame construction incorporating alu- expectations? minum and leather, surface treatment and choice of quality components all contrib- NH A comfortable saddle in combination ute to the modern appearance. To reach the with the lush full suspension provides a high widest possible audience we stayed clear of level of comfort on the road. The 3-inch tires ExtraEnergy.org 13
special report design – Interview
make for a safe ride. A range of accessories make the vehicle more practical, such as bags and baskets, developed by Ultra Motor in the A2B style to match the vehicle and planned for market introduction in spring. Although the A2B looks like a bicycle, it rides more like a scooter and is much lighter than conventional scooters. Quality lithium-ion batteries in the crossbar of the frame extend the range to about 50 kilometers. The rider can put an additional battery in the special holder on the luggage rack to extend the range even further. The A2B concept is applicable to many different models. We are not only looking at one vehicle here, but at an entire vehicle family. Thanks to the modular design, we can produce different vehicles with a single frame and adapt these to different market requirements and laws. The A2B can, for example, take on the form of a pedelec, an e-bike, fast pedelec, an off-road vehicle, or a scooter. The big advantage of modular construction is that production costs are 14 ExtraEnergy.org
much lower for different models and that de- EE Do you have an A2B yourself? velopment time can be reduced. For customers, this means a wider selection of models NH Yes! I think it is a cool vehicle with which I like to identify. and quality products at lower prices. EE You are an enthusiastic cyclist. How is your own lifestyle reflected in the design of the A2B? NH Large suspension distances and relatively small 20-inch wheels create an imaginary link to mountain biking, BMX, or bicycle motocross. I used to be a racer. The A2B, so to speak, has “inherited“ something from my BMX and downhill time. I also have a passion for classic motorcycles of the 30s, such as the old Indians, Harleys and Vespa scooters. The upright bike design, visible technology and elaborate details of the old machines not only influenced the ergonomics of the A2B, but also enhanced our attention to small detail, such as the lettering engraved into the leather seat.
EE Do you think people are ready to switch to a new form of transport? NH I think consumers are open to new propulsion technologies, especially if they produce little or no pollutants. The positive response to the A2B has showed me that people can become passionate about something new and different. Novel vehicle concepts and suitable infrastructure are things I see as key to exploiting the new market potential. — Interview by Susanne Brüsch
special report Design – road test a2b
From A to B by Metro To be on the move electrically in the city. That’s what the A2B Metro was made for by London-based firm Ultra Motor. Journalist Michaela Müller reports on her test ride through Berlin, the actual birthplace of the A2B. The e-bike was created in the design office of Ultra Motor in the heart of Kreuzberg. Berlin is also the birthplace of the bike’s electronics. The concept was realized in close cooperation with the firm’s development department in Taiwan. The first thing Michaela had to do before she could set off on her test ride, was to put a helmet on. Although not mandatory, a helmet definitely makes sense when riding a zippy vehicle such as the Metro A2B. When in all-electric mode, the German version called Metro, reaches 20 km/h. The additional power sensor enables the rider to go even faster by pedaling. Together rider and motor can reach speeds of up to 35 km/h. Therefore, the Metro is an e-bike, and a s-pedelec once it passes 20 km/h. From the legal point of view, the Metro is licensed as a moped with a 20 km/h limit. In Germany this is the maximum speed at which a motorized vehicle may be ridden without a helmet. When it comes to pedelecs, helmets do not have to be worn, since these LEVs are treated by the law as bicycles, says Alexander Brincker, managing director and head of development at Ultra Motor in Taiwan. As engineer Brincker has experienced the highs and lows of the motorcycle and LEV industry and is familiar with European regulations. An
insurance license plate and a moped driver’s license are the minimum legal requirements for the Metro, Brincker adds. While the classical pedelec (with its maximum speed of 25 km/h) may use cycle paths, these are taboo for the Metro, when motorized vehicles are not expressly permitted. For Michaela, an experienced cyclist, the road is not a problem. She got used to the Metro quickly and reported as follows: At first glance I could not size up the A2B Metro. Neither did it look like a traditional bicycle, nor like a classical scooter – it seemed to fall somewhere in between. One thing was clear from the start: this was not simply a bicycle frame with an electric motor mounted to it. This was an original concept, which created curiosity about the riding experience. I wondered how the road handling would differ from that of a bicycle. The traffic was heavy on Adalbert Street, one of the main streets in the trendy Berlin district of Kreuzberg. Starting from the Ultra Motor office, I fought my way around cars, cyclists and pedestrians, into calmer side streets, before I put my foot down, so to speak. The engine revved and the 20-inch tires – which appeared a bit small at first sight – started to eat the road. ExtraEnergy.org 15
special report Design – road test a2b
batteries is four to five hours. The 500 watt motor in the rear wheel hub works on a direct drive principle. The display on the handlebars was easy and intuitive to use. The electric components of this model were designed by the Berlin firm of Digalog. Digalog specializes in the development of customized solutions for industrial clients, when standard electronics do not meet their requirements, says CEO Martin Weber about his company. The combination of e-bike and s-pedelec, which is new in the A2B Metro, required a special electronic control unit, says Weber. There are several ways to get going with the Metro. It accelerates by throttle up to 20 km/h (in other EU nations up to 25 km/h, since the no-helmet maximum speed is higher). Pedaling is only required if you want to go over 20 km/h. In that case, the motor will provide support up to a maximum of 35 km/h – as is the case with a s-pedelec. Of course, you may also pedal along at a lower speed, or ignore the throttle completely, to save power, or get some exercise. The 7-gear Alivio gearshift by Shimano is enough for everyday use in the city and does a good job. I enjoyed using the electric motor. It allowed me to get the A2B to my destination without sweating – a small shop on Orianienplatz. Here, I bought some groceries and stowed them in a waterproof bag which I simply clicked to the luggage rack. There was enough space for a quick shop, but not enough for my big, weekly shopping trip. The luggage rack can absorb up to 20 kg of extra cargo. Then I returned to the Ultra Motor office. Under normal circumstances, one would have to find a place to safely park the posh vehicle overnight. After all, the price tag of 2,700 € makes it a valuable asset. Many cyclists carry their prize items into the basement, or take it with them into their apartments. But, I couldn’t think of carrying the 37 kg baby up and down the stairs. Not only was the vehicle heavy, but the motor and battery position also pushed the weight back. In this respect, the A2B can be compared to a scooter. Who would think of carrying a scooter up the stairs? A bicycle, yes, but an A2B… rather not. This left only the backyard, garage, or pavement as possible places to park the vehicle. The Metro A2B attracts lots of attention (due to its unusual deAnyone who has ever been on the road with a BMX bike knows small sign) and you should lock it properly. tires have their advantages. The same here: the A2B Metro is highly maneuverable, especially in curves. The riding position on the posh ve- My conclusion: The A2B Metro unites two types of transport – the virhicle bears almost no resemblance to the half-squatting position on tually emission-free and no-effort 2-wheel e-vehicle and the nora BMX bike. One sits upright – and the saddle is comfortable. The sus- mal bike. Since the A2B Metro looks good on top, it will soon be seen pension on the front fork absorbs shocks from small potholes and around town more often. curbs. This also improves ground contact and ensures a safe ride. The 25 km/h pedelec version – the A2B hybrid – with 26 inch wheels The A2B Metro has two lithium batteries. One is located on the luggage is available in Germany for around 2,300 € and has been tested by rack, the other hidden in the crossbar, giving the bike a range of about ExtraEnergy. You will find the test report on page 136. 50 km, without assistance from the rider. Statistically seen, half of the routes traveled a cities are shorter than five kilometers. Assuming, for — Michaela Müller example, two journeys per day, the A2B theoretically only needs to be recharged every few days. You charge your mobile phone more often! True, battery weight and the size of the Metro cannot be compared to a mobile phone, but this example shows just how much the process of recharging has become daily routine today. Charging time for the A2B 16 ExtraEnergy.org
special report Design – experience grace
Rendezvous with Grace Endorphins pure »Fly with Grace« sounds graceful, futuristic and very ambi- headquarters of an unusual company and was turned into the tious. A test-ride confirmed the slogan, in fact, fits to the fan- birthplace of a groundbreaking vehicle. cy new e‑bike. This is the story of how an old mill became the
Anyone who loves forest paths with loose sand, pine trees and wild meadows will immediately feel at home in the small town of Biesenthal, north of Berlin. This is how Michael Hedges, the “father” of Grace, responded. A short stopover on route from his former home in London brought the Bonn native to Biesenthal in 2003 almost by accident. There, he discovered the burned-out ruins of a mill that inspired him. Two weeks later, the visionary maker and shaker moved to Berlin and began the expansion of his new home - the fortified mill. Today, the location is the headquarters of GRACE GmbH & Co. KG, from where CEO Hecken sells his bikes.
Once on the hidden forest path, the first thing one sees is the old facade of the mill adorned with stucco. Step through the door and you find yourself in a modern, light-flooded room furnished in the minimalist style. This is where the MBA graduate lives and works on project Grace, while at the same time practicing his profession as human resources marketing specialist. With Grace, Hecken wanted to build the perfect bike for himself – without compromise in quality, and mature in technology. Designed to his taste – and legal. The idea came from a very ordinary need: he wanted to cycle from
the regional station in Bernau on a scenic cycle path in the direction of Usedom to his hometown of Biesenthal; he wanted to do it quickly, get some exercise in the process and have fun along the way. The elegant, simple aluminum-colored prototype resulted from this vision. Exhibited in the large front window, it never fails to catch the eye. In a side room, Hecken starts talking about his penchant for physics, his interest in art and in design. The silver suit used in the Grace ads also hangs in this room. Look closely and you will recognize the inscription NRQCD and not Grace. This is what Hecken wanted to call his ExtraEnergy.org 17
special report Design – experience grace
For the development of his individual vehicle concept, Hecken found an ideal partner in NICOLAI Gesellschaft für Zweirad und Maschinenbau mbH. NICOLAI specializes in the development and production of high quality mountain bike frames and manufactures an especially light aluminum frame and a few parts with computer-controlled machines (CNC). Being a new concept, no mechanical components existed for Grace and so over 40 special parts had to be manufactured. The front light housing was, for instance, custommade with a multi-function display integratUltimately, the amateur scientist was con- ed on the top. Lateral control buttons activate vinced that his vehicle, with its technical- distance lighting, horn and display menu. ly-cool racing look, needed a more graceful name that meant something even to people For the drive system, on the other hand, tried who knew nothing about physics. This is how and tested components were used. The brushNRQCD became Grace. It is a name Hecken less 48 volt direct drive from Asia, with rearwould give his daughter and the name also re- wheel hub spokes, has a nominal voltage minds of Grace Kelly. The fact that the vehi- of 1,300 watts. The housing was completecle was introduced to the market in November ly modified, equipped with a freewheel clutch 2009 on the 80th birthday of the actress was and combined with a 9-speed derailleur prior “pure coincidence,” claims the marketing man- to installation. The batteries were housed in ager. Grace is a name, vehicle, and philosophy the three bars of the main frame. Depending on frame size, there is enough room for 8 to 9 – all in one. battery packs with 12 Sony lithium cells each. “baby” originally. The term comes from quantum physics and stands for non-relativistic quantum chromo dynamics, which describes the behavior of tiny particles. The color charge of these particles (quarks) and their interaction is represented in physics by different colored circles, which overlap, form a white space in the middle and together make up a kind of triangle. This image was chosen by Hecken as the logo for Grace. For the white spot – the nothing – is what the field of physics considers to be the origin of all life.
18 ExtraEnergy.org
The charger, from the model airplane field, is also unique: it can charge a battery up to 80 % in a single hour. However, at 32 kg the power pack is too heavy to carry. With the battery fully charged, it is possible – according to the makers – to travel 40 km at a speed of 45 km/h with a twist grip on a flat road and without any stops. The rider decides whether he wants to go for speed, or for range. He can configure his choice himself on the board computer, even while riding. Grace’s special fun factor lies in the manual throttle and old-fashioned pedaling at speeds that could only be managed over long distances with a racing bike. The rider can effectively pedal along at 40 km/h. The motor control functions completely independent from the pedals, making Grace an e-bike, not a pedelec with a pedal, or power sensor. Hecken describes his creation as an e-motorbike and in his view this is a new category of electric bicycles. Grace is authorized as a moped with a speed of up to 45 km/h. Insurance plates, suitable helmet and a driving license (category M) are all mandatory.
special report Design – experience grace
You’ll have to dig a little deeper into your pocket to own a Grace – the standard product costs about 7,000 €. The fact that most components and detail were passionately developed and created for the product, and that the design was done without compromising on cost, had to impact on the price. Enthusiasts and collectors know how to value this product and are fighting to get one with a single digit frame number. The first small run of 18 bicycles, assembled in Biesenthal, has already been sold. To date the most expensive bicycle sold went for 9,900 € to a former high-jumper in Moscow. Another customer is a supermarket chain manager in France, who indulged himself with a custom-made Grace. Other customers live in London, Berlin, Essen, Bonn, Zurich and Slovenia. Several prominent organizations have approached Hecken to cooperate. Work has commenced on the next production batch, which will be delivered at the end of summer. Customers may visit the web site to select a frame color and individual components from a 64 color pallet. In autumn 2010 the Grace Team will introduce a “range extender” – a separate battery to extend the travel range. Our first Grace test drive was exhilarating: we reached the top speed in no time with only the hand grip. Add some pedal at this speed, and you’ll quickly get tears in your eyes. Partly because of the speed and partly due to the euphoria of biking in this new dimension. — Susanne Brüsch
The technical product data in this article were provided by the manufacturer and have not been confirmed in an ExtraEnergy test. ExtraEnergy.org 19
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special report Design – Brandnew award
Innovation award for LEVs Overall winner – Copenhagen Wheel The BrandNew Award is an award for young entrepreneurs. It was introduced 10 years ago by the Messe München as a challenge to new organizations. On Bike Expo 2010 the category LEV (light electric vehicle) was introduced as a new category. Surprisingly, the overall award was then won by the winner of the newly introduced LEV category – Copenhagen Wheel. The category Pedelec and E-bike was won by Third Element from Munich with their e-bike eSpire.
Copenhagen Wheel No-one from Copenhagen Wheel was present, but the concept presented was good enough to convince the 11 jurors. Scientists of SENSEable City Lab at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) had first introduced their so-called Copenhagen Wheel at the Climate Conference in Copenhagen in December 2009. The product is a rear wheel with an unmistakable red hub, in which all the electric components of an e-vehicle are integrated. The system stores energy released by the brakes to deliver support on demand. During the ride, the wheel collects environmental data. In the LEV world, the idea to integrate all components in a hub remained a dream until the MIT scientists came around. The motor, 3-gear transmission, battery, power sensor and environmental sensors have all been integrated in the hub casing. Cables and battery packs are no longer required, which simplifies the integration. It will be possible to fit the Copenhagen Wheel to any bike. Christine Outram of the MIT team expects the hub to weigh between 3.5 kg and 4.5 kg by the time it is officially released on the market in 2011. The Italian company Ducati Energia is responsible for the conversion and production. The first prototype batteries lasted for 3.5 hours, at medium support and mild gradients. No exact data on the battery’s capacity is available, as batteries are currently being exchanged. The bicycle is in its final development phase and production is expected to commence at the end of the year. Outram expects the hub to cost about 750 €.
Copenhagen Wheel by SENSEable City Lab of MIT
The motor is controlled via a smart phone on the handlebar and linked via Bluetooth. The vehicle can be locked via the mobile phone. Gears can also be changed and the motor support controlled via smart phone. On the road, sensors integrated in the hub will measure air and noise pollution, temperature, humidity level, traffic incidents and street status. A “smart” user will also be able to process this environmental data further per smart phone and so update and optimize the route to his destination. Furthermore, the Copenhagen Wheel inventors will help cities locate and diminish pressure points, on condition users pass their environmental data on to the inventors. Christine Outram is confident Copenhagen Wheel will achieve its goals with the environment and society. No official order for the hub has been received to date, but Auckland, Sydney, Copenhagen, Mexico City and Toronto have signaled their interest. Application areas earmarked by SENSEable City Lab range from public rental stations to fitting public services out with these bicycles and improving complete traffic and environmental systems.
Third Element eSpire The eSpire of Third Element AG in Munich is an e-bike with a very sporty look and driving gear. In the street version the e-bike reaches a speed of up to 45 km/h. Off-road it could be as high as 60 km/h. The powerful drive unit also originates from Munich, where it is manufactured by Clean Mobile, a firm aiming to make LEVs as powerful as their internal combustion engine family members. The jury described the sporty modern vehicle as a serious alternative to the petrol scooter, or motorcycle, while being fun to ride. The eSpire passed the ExtraEnergy test with an assessment of “Excellent” in the product group Wellness. For the full product report go to page 168. — Nora Manthey
eSpire by Third Element AG ExtraEnergy.org 21
special report Design – experience cytronex
›Everything we do, must look good and perform well‹ ExtraEnergy visits the English brand Cytronex in Winchester In London being mobile mostly means standing in overloaded trains, as numerous commuters travel to the »City« to work. When we traveled out of the city early one morning, the only other people in the train were tourists. We were heading for Winchester, one of the oldest cities in England. The Great Hall houses the round table of King Arthur, who once aspired to conquer the world.
We visited this picturesque University City not because we were interested in the past, but in the future. Here we met Mark Searles, manager of Modern Times Ltd., to discuss the firm’s electric bicycles, called Cytronex and which are said to be the lightest in the world. We also wanted to take the vehicle on a test-ride.
In the LEV world Modern Times, also known as No-Hills, or Cytronex (mother company, sales and brand respectively), has earned the reputation of building the “lightest electric bicycle in the world”. It’s a Cannondale race bicycle with Cytronex kit, including a battery camouflaged as water bottle and a light Tongxin front wheel hub motor.
Cytronex can hardly meet the demand. Winchester is the only office address and products are only sold in the United Kingdom. Customers outside the UK must collect their bicycles in Winchester.
To ex-marketing man Searles products are all about “looks, image and publicity”. The media attention received by the e-powered Cannondale race machine recently, “did the brand justice”, according to Searles. The brand is “known and loved by all”, he adds. Cytronex lets established brands work for it, adding its motor to their bikes and making them look good. One can’t really say this of the company office, which lies hidden between typical Victorian, two-story houses with bay windows. The management “intentionally selected the most impossible sales office”, explains Searles, since the four people (including Searles) working for 22 ExtraEnergy.org
To sell globally and produce in mass are on the cards, but only once the second generation Cytronex system has been developed. The idea is that Modern Times should become a supplier to customers and dealers who are interested in stand-alone kits with components, or in bikes with kits already mounted. Cytronex currently fits its conversion kit to all brands and types of bicycles. According to the founder, the sole selection criterion is that “all we do must look attractive and perform well «. However, who determines what looks good? It might be Searles, since his taste is evident in the bicycle design. One of his favorite models, used by him as well, is a high-end race bicycle with a tuned motor. The designer finds it important to keep the electrical components as inconspicuous, light and stylish as possible.
special report Design – experience cytronex
left Capo of Cytronex top Quick CX 700 von Cytronex
One should not be able to detect the bicycle is an e-vehicle. Searles refers to this as “hidden power” and the target group he aims at, is surprisingly different from typical cyclists. His products should appeal to non-cycling British citizens. He wants to “get them out of the car”. Searles is convinced more people would ride bicycles if hindrances, such as slopes or contrary winds were non-factors. Electric bicycles can neutralize these factors, but due to their looks they have little appeal to the people on the island. The Cytronex characteristic – the battery disguised as water bottle - appeals to them, as does the premium quality bicycle. This serves another purpose: a bicycle enhanced by Cytronex should “reproduce the cycling experience as accurately as possible”. But, it must make cycling quicker and more intense, says Searles. This requires a silent motor, a high-quality light bicycle and the idea that support is only added if and when required. Instead of focusing on constant power and range, Cytronex focuses on efficiency. In general the distance to work does not exceed several kilometers and is a perfect distance to cycle. Environment-friendly and healthy to boot. The motor is activated with the “boost button”, ideally only when riding up a slope, or when encountering strong headwinds. The rider who thinks for himself and controls the motor efficiency will in Searles’ view be fitter in no time.
The battery with nickel metal hydride (NiMh) cells has a range of approximately 30 km. This is why the battery only weighs 2.1 kg. The battery is charged in 90 minutes. When inexperienced cyclists ask what they should do when the battery is empty, Searles points to the quality bicycles. He is convinced the selected models are light enough to offer cycling fun and speed without a motor. We tested three models: the Quick CX 700 and the Capo (both Cannondale models) and Day One, a Genesis model. Capo and Day One are Singlespeed bikes. Searles describes them as having been “created for the City and based on speed”. The Quick CX 700 series has a Shimano 8-speed gear hub and a motor with two levels of support. The motor operates via a movement sensors in the bottom bracket. A button on the right-hand side, inside the handle bar, known as the boost button, activates the motor, and a similar button on the left-hand side serves to set the two levels – low and speed. If the left-hand brake is used, the system is deactivated and must be reactivated. The assistance is good and the running characteristics of the bicycle excellent. However, the motor behavior and its operation require some shifting, pressing and thinking. The pedelec demonstrates limitations against the hill. Here the rider must shift down in time, since it takes 3 to 5 pedal rotations for the assistance to be activated.
ExtraEnergy.org 23
special report Design – experience cytronex
The bicycle lacks a battery charge load display. Positioned adjacent to the boost button, the on / off display is barely visible in the sunlight. Current models are all provided with easy-to-read clocks, with clear temperature and speed displays. The Cytronex is fitted with a kind of reading light, designed to activate the complete light system with a single press of a button. The overall experience of the cyclist on this light, stylish bicycle confirms the Cytronex promise, namely: “it rides like a good bicycle – with and without the motor”. The motor is quiet and supports powerfully when operational. The delayed support – a common problem of systems with movement sensors – is negligible. If needed, the motor support can be deactivated with the brake handle. This function is not available on the Singlespeed cycles Capo and Day One. The boost button with assistance mode replaced these two buttons. The Cannondale Capo is a true racing bike; the Genesis is a modern city bike, with a close resemblance to a cross-country bike. It is no problem to carry these bikes, weighing 13.6 and 15.5 kg. The battery can easily be removed and positioned in the water bottle support. For all Cytronex bicycles the quick-connect terminals are screwed down. The two Singlespeeds are different in the way gears are shifted. The cyclist’s experience on these light bicycles is exhilarating. The Singlespeed motor surprises and convinces with its simplicity. The welladjusted motor does not miss a gear. The average speed (with and without the motor) is 24 km/h. The “boost” can be set easier, compared to models with more gears, and activates quickly after just one or two rotations. However, the delayed support effect is somewhat stronger. 24 ExtraEnergy.org
The drive characteristics without the motor are of such quality that the rider starts to activate and deactivate the motor in the traffic more often. The support given at traffic lights and in stop-go situations is perfect, making it a good bike for the city. After the test-ride, Mark Searles talked about the product currently under development. Cytronex plans to develop its own motor. The businessman didn’t want to reveal more specifics. Only that the kit design is “neat and easy” and that Cytronex is driven by visions. — Nora Manthey
Technical data Model Cannondale Quick CX 700 with 8-speeds, 16.5 kg Model Cannondale Capo, Singlespeed, 13.6 kg Model Genesis Day One, Singlespeed, 15.5 kg Motor Tongxin, 180 W, 2.5 kg Battery Cytronex, battery manufacturer unknown, NiMh, 30 cells with 4 Ah, 2.1 kg, Charge time 1.5 h Range Approximately 30 km All information was supplied by the manufacturer – ExtraEnergy has not (yet) had the opportunity to test this vehicle in its official Pedelec/E-Bike test.
special report Design – shimano motor
Shimano builds System for Pedelecs by Nora Manthey
Shimano introduced its first component series for pedelecs in June 2010. It is called Steps and was created around two key ideas, namely long life and integration. Yoshizo Shimano, board member of one of the largest component manufacturers in the bicycle industry, first told Hannes Neupert, ExtraEnergy CEO, of Shimano’s plans for an electric motor system at the Tokyo Cycle Show in 1996. At the time neither expected it would take Shimano 15 years to enter the e-vehicle market with a motor. Many pedelec manufacturers have been relying on Shimano assembled parts kits for many years and have built them into pedelecs across all the price levels. The recently introduced Steps series is not a simple kit for pedelecs, but a complete drive system. All components function on a high-quality level as a single unit. Steps stands for Shimano Total Electric Power System. The system only functions when built in as a unit, and when fully integrated into the bicycle. The kit consists of a front wheel hub motor, crank set, battery unit, hub switch, LCD display as well as a lighting system. The front wheel hub motor provides 250 W and offers an integrated recuperation and dynamo function. A sensor, which measures turning momentum and peddle power, is integrated in the Hollowtech crank set. Further sensors measure the brake power and are integrated in the disc handle, or roll brake, to control the recuperation performance.
The battery is meant to be integrated in the luggage carrier. According to an insider in Japan, the battery comes from Toshiba. Apparently, the battery can be charged completely within one hour, has a capacity of 96 Wh (24 V × 4 Ah) and is not overly heavy. Shimano appears to be focusing more on looks and realistic application, than on maximum power. With a fast battery charger the charge time of the lithium titanate cell is cut to between 5 and 10 minutes. The system can be operated with the buttons in the brake handle – in other words, with one of the most visible and noticeable Shimano products. Already in the racing bike group, the gear shift is the most important point of differentiation from, for instance, the Campagnolo. Steps integrates the start button and two buttons for the support control in the brake handle on the left side. It is also possible to shift electrically. The gearshift with optional hub shift is accommodated with buttons on the brake handle on the right side. ExtraEnergy is curious to see whether Shimano will also use the pedelec power sensor information to optimize gear shifting of electric gearshift systems. The brake handle will also activate the highquality Busch+Müller lighting system and LCD display. The motor system will be introduced to the market in autumn 2010, and will be delivered from December 2010. Initially the system will not be offered to consumers as a conversion kit, but only to bicycle manufacturers. ExtraEnergy.org 25
special report Design – prototypes
Car Manufacturers discover Electric Cycles by Christoffel Volschenk
In the first six months of 2010 several global automobile manufacturers introduced light electric vehicle (LEV) prototypes and one big auto parts supplier presented a new motor system for e-vehicles. Among them were Porsche, Volkswagen, Toyota, and Bosch.
None of the prototypes unveiled by car manufacturers in the past months, has been earmarked for mass production yet. Still, they caught the eye for the way they truthfully reflected their heritage. Porsche presented a sporty, dynamic bicycle, Volkswagen a bicycle for every man and every woman, and Lexus (Toyota) developed an interesting, playful design of its long-range hybrid concept. Bosch decided to remain what it had always been: an innovative supplier to manufacturers – in this case bicycle manufacturers.
It might seem strange for automobile manufacturers to deviate from their core businesses in this way. But, pedelecs are not novel to these corporations. BMW first worked on a revolutionary e-bike in 1992. In 2007 it almost introduced a pedelec on the IAA trade show. In 1995 Mercedes Benz produced a pedelec in series and sold 12,000 units. And Apart from building the image and sharpening the profile of the autoin the nineties Honda, Mitsubishi and Suzuki sold electric bicycles in mobile industry, the auto manufacturers’ “re-discovery” of the e-vehiJapan. cle market also benefits the LEV industry.
Porsche Luxury Sportpedelec The Porsche Hybrid RS is a powerful mountain bike known for its motor, which recharges when riding downhill. Instead of a standard display for travel data, a smart phone (on the prototype an iPhone) fitted to the handlebar does the job. The mobile telephone connects to the pedelec’s electronics box via W‑Lan and offers web-based navigation and the actual battery charge status. Another elegant, though not entirely new, design solution Porsche design solution is the way the lithium battery was “hidden in plain sight”. The battery was molded in the form and size of a water bottle and placed where water bottles usually sit on traditional mountain bikes: in the middle of the lower frame. The full suspension Hybrid RS frame weighs 16 kg. When supported by peddle power, the bike has a range of approximately 50 km. 26 ExtraEnergy.org
Directly aimed at the luxury market, all components on the mountain bike are of premium quality, including the Magura Marta disc brakes and latest Sram X.0 gear shift. The wheel hub motor is integrated in the rear wheel and contributes an additional 450 watt. At the unveiling of the prototype Michael Macht, chairman of the Porsche board, said “everything about the Porsche RS Hybrid is in the tradition of the company”. When asked why Porsche ventured into light electric vehicles, Macht said: “Porsche wanted to transfer its hybrid expertise to bicycles”. This hybrid expertise is new at Porsche. In March this year the sports car manufacturer unveiled a prototype of the 3-liter Porsche Spyder with the new technology at the Geneva Motor Show. Then the promotion crew appeared in the same bright green as the Porsche pedelec.
special report Design – prototypes
VW introduces “Volks-Bike” Volkswagen called its prototype the Bik.e. It stands in the tradition of its parent and can thus be referred to as the people’s e-bike. Only problem: it actually isn’t an e-bike, but a foldable e-scooter. It doesn’t have pedals, but small foot supports and can be throttled up to a maximum speed of 20 km/h. Store-ability is its strong point. The Bik.e can easily fold down to the size of a spare wheel, and then simply be stowed away on top of the spare wheel in the boot of the car. According to Volkswagen, this will not reduce the space in the boot. The link with the car is direct: the Bik.e is charged by the car battery, while driving to the train station, or searching for parking.
models were developed independently. A Porsche spokesperson said there were currently “no plans to cooperate, but, cooperation on evehicles cannot be fully excluded”.
The response of bloggers to the Bik.e was all but euphoric. For instance, the value of building an e-scooter which cannot exceed 20 km/h was questioned. Others raised the insurance issue. According to EU legislation the e-scooter must be registered and insured. Despite the reservations, the idea of connecting the transport modes (2-wheelers with cars) remains an exciting one. After all, it will always be quicker to ride to the next gasoline station with the empty gas canister than to walk! VW plans to Even though Volkswagen owns 49 % of Por- take the Bik.e into mass production, but didn’t sche and both companies plan to “exploit ex- say when. isting synergies between them”, the two LEV
Lexus Racing bike with All-wheel Drive In Asia Lexus worked with bike expert Yamaha to develop the Lexus HB Concept 2WD. It is a pedal-assisted racing bike with 2-wheel drive, has a very modern design and a carbon fibre frame. It derives its power from a 240 watt front wheel hub motor and a second motor in the rear wheel. Instead of a chain, it has a belt drive and recuperation function (works when braking). Despite all the technology, the bicycle still only weighs 17 kg.
To date two bicycles have been produced and Lexus doesn’t plan serial production. The s-pedelec primarily serves as a marketing tool, to show Lexus’ design capabilities and the innovativeness of hybrid automobiles. The Lexus HB Concept 2WD prototype was presented in the United Kingdom at the same time as Lexus announced its participation in the Great British Bike Ride, a charity race.
All-around service from Bosch Of the firms mentioned in the introduction, Bosch will be the only one to bring a product to the market this year. The Stuttgart-based auto supplier will bring a complete e-vehicle system to the market in December. It will be aimed at e-vehicle manufacturers – not consumers. Bosch recently set up a new division for LEV motor systems in Reutlingen, Germany and signed a cooperation agreement with bicycle manufacturer Cannondale. The first Bosch-driven Cannondale was introduced in September 2010. The modular built Bosch system is small and flexible and allows bicycle manufacturers the largest possible design freedom. Next to the standard battery, which can be built into the bicycle in a number of
positions, Bosch also offers the option to develop custom-made batteries. The Bosch motor system will be available worldwide and will be delivered as a complete package only. Replacement parts will be delivered everywhere, a service hotline will be introduced and training for manufacturers and dealers will be offered. The automobile industry might just have started “invading” the LEV segment, but it has already enriched the market. Consumers may hope that more organizations with R&D resources will follow the example of Porsche, VW, Lexus and Bosch – even if their prototypes never make it into serial production. ExtraEnergy.org 27
special report Design – burger’s vision
Rethinking Pedelecs by Christoffel Volschenk
Industrial designer Michael Burger studied under Prof Elke Mathiebe and Peter Laabs in Dresden, Germany, between 2004 and 2009. His focus was on transport design and light electric vehicles. For his thesis (published in 2009) Burger drew on knowledge from experts with longstanding practical experience, amongst them Hannes Neupert, chairman of ExtraEnergy. Since then Michael Burger has worked for the organization as a designer. Among his designs for ExtraEnergy: trade stands, the ExtraEnergy Award trophies and equipment used in the ExtraEnergy test. In his dissertation Burger explained his vision of a state-of-the-art city pedelec over 140 pages.
Still today many pedelec designs remind of the age of “good old tour biking”, with what one could call a “granny look”. Industrial designer Burger thinks this “granny look” might be standing in the way of widespread acceptance of electric bikes. “The antiquated appearance of the granny bike stands in the way of broad acceptance of the product in the market. What we need is a fresh, modern design. Something which will inspire non-cycling city dwellers to take up pedaling,” writes Burger in his dissertation for the Department of Product Design.
“Making the pedelec look like a conventional bike is something I see as an obstacle in the way of its future development and cultural acceptance. A new category also requires new formal approaches,” says Burger. He prefers to follow the “third way” – somewhere between bicycle and electric vehicle. “When a pedelec is conceptualized, there is always an opportunity to create something completely new. I’m talking about something which doesn’t fit into an existing group, or type. The pedelec constantly swings me between the bicycle and motorbike.”
What should a pedelec look like to appeal to a wide spectrum of customers? Burger developed a city pedelec for today’s city dwellers with the technology of tomorrow. His designs are based on strong convictions that don’t always follow the path of least resistance, and are future-driven. He warns against falling for an overly sporty look, in an effort to get away from the “yesteryear look”. Burger reckons the all-round city bike of tomorrow can do without features such as full suspension, trendy colors and loud branding. And it should be easily differentiated from sport pedelecs. “This approach demands a rethink of the pedelec design, which currently follows the traditional bicycle look closely,” he says.
In this context, the challenge is to provide clear guidelines for the design of the power unit. Burger doesn’t think much of the current trend to hide the power elements of electric bikes, but at the same time “an exaggerated visibility of the power unit for a vehicle with a maximum power output of 500 watt would also be overdoing it”. The designer acknowledges that a pedelec has to stay within certain constraints to be accepted in the market. A basic electric vehicle costing 1,500 € has to look different from a model that costs twice as much and provides much more room for visual creativity. In his concept pedelec Burger combines existing solutions with innovative, new design ideas. He uses a tried and tested power unit - the central motor. “The motor and power sensors are contained in the bottom bracket bearing, which enables me to neatly integrate all the technology into the new frame design.” Hannes Neupert from ExtraEnergy is full of praise for Burger’s dissertation and his wellthought out design for a modern city pedelec: “A very coherent and thoroughly researched study“, summarizes Neupert. Burger hopes his design will one day find its way into the market.
Michael Burger does not only create pedelecs. Check out his portfolio on www.michaelburgerdesign.de 28 ExtraEnergy.org
special report Design – burger’s vision
Michael Burger explains how electric bikes are beginning to gain kudos with unconventional designs at the hand of a few examples.
1
5
1 GoCycle 2 Grace 3 Magna Marque · Styriette 4 Winora · town e:xp 5 Riese und Müller · Jetstream Hybrid
2 Compact and city The GoCycle design is compact and tidy. The cen3 4 tral casing made from die cast magnesium is an elegant alternative to the rough welded seams on the frame. With its enclosed chain case, 3-speed, pared-down suspension, weight of only 16 kg and motor ac- Unconventional The design for the Winora town e:xp is fresh and tivation with a single push of a button, this two-wheeler is made for clearly different from more conservative pedelecs. The unconventional, yet pretty unfussy shape of the unisex frame confirms this. The modshort trips in the city el is available in a bold range of colors, hinting that it aims at a youngMainstream? Certainly not Though the battery can only be er target audience. Nevertheless, the oversized battery casing looks reached over the hinged lid on the central frame, the Jetstream exudes slightly too voluminous for a pedelec. a striking and harmonious geometry. Clear lines distinguish it from Retro with a twist Styriette, a moped with two-stroke engine the mainstream. This pedelec convinces, without being over-styled. from the 30s, has been re-launched as a pedelec powered by a BionX Classic, but techno The Grace is based on the classic Diamant electric motor. On the outside, frame geometry as well as color scheme frame, yet it appears more bulky, technical and solid. Its design implies resemble the original. It would have been interesting to see a version higher end speeds than the obligatory 25 km/h and is a confident and with a mid-engine layout here. obvious result of the concept behind it. ExtraEnergy.org 29
special report Design – Eflow’s vision
Mobile with the Battery in space and cyberspace At the Taipei Cycle Show in March 2010, Swiss company Flow AG presented a new, elegant solution for integrating the battery into a pedelec. In his design study (called Eflow) Vincenz Droux conceived
a vehicle that is more than a mode of transport. Saddle, seat post and battery form a detachable unit with a social perspective.
At first it looks like an ultramodern, but conventional bicycle in techno black and white, but a short demonstration reveals that the e-bike in question is merely the conveyor of a much larger idea. The concept was enthusiastically exhibited at the international Cycle Show in Taipei in March 2010 by Vincenz Droux, CEO and designer of the Swiss firm Flow AG in Biel. The pedelec prototype presented in Taipei was based on a design study by Droux and developed in cooperation with Fairly Bike Manufacturing Co. Ltd. in Taiwan. Fairly is a recognized manufacturer of bicycles and electric bikes – also for European companies – and open to new ideas. Eflow’s secret is its battery. Together with the saddle it forms a removable unit. Version number one joins battery and saddle with a regular seat post. The advantage is that the battery (in the same shape as the broader, oval seat tube) is completely hidden within the tube, where it is well protected against environmental forces.
In version number 2, the battery is fused with the saddle. In this way it serves as the seat post and can be ergonomically adjusted as usual. A smart folding mechanism allows for easy removal, replacement and locking of the battery/saddle unit. In a neat move, the seat tube is covered at the same time, excluding debris and rain and offering protection for the contacts. Slung across the shoulder with a special carrying strap, you simply remove the detachable display from the handlebars and leave your bike behind, securely locked. Instead of bringing the whole bike with you or having to secure it with heavy chains, it’s enough to take along the arm-long battery unit. Apart from theft, the Eflow concept also looks at a further issue: mobility and parking.
30 ExtraEnergy.org
“Effortless mobility” is a central theme of Eflow. What accompanies you to the office, supermarket, college or pub is the battery with saddle attached – not the pedelec itself. But, the Flow AG idea of global significance is pedelec sharing.
special report Design – Eflow’s vision
Different ways of organizing public infrastructure for e-vehicles have been discussed and tested for some years now. Since pedelecs are still relatively expensive (around 1,700 €), rental systems seem to be an inexpensive alternative. Existing concepts revolve around rental systems, battery changing devices, charging stations and leasing options. Common to all these models is that the customer buys only the vehicle and rents or leases the battery – or rents both. This saves having to buy the battery and brings down the cost of the pedelec, since the electrical components are still the biggest cost factor of an electric bike. Eflow takes a different approach to the challenge: the customer owns the battery and rents the vehicle at public stations. Every Eflow battery owner can simply slide his battery into the next available pedelec at public, standardized rental stations and ride to his or her heart’s desire. After use, the vehicle is returned to a station and the battery/saddle removed.
access the internet or play music. Internet connectivity enables users to stay in touch with other E-Flowers, search for the nearest rental station, or listen to music. With this type of pedelec sharing, identification is no longer with the vehicle as such - the comforting, warm feeling of familiarity comes with the battery. In other words, the battery is worked to maximum capacity. The Eflow as a vehicle serves as an additional identification and effects the very real connection between A and B. Vincent Droux envisages a network, real as well as virtual, where the battery allows access to rental pedelecs and the internet – in short: mobility wherever and whenever. At the moment, the Eflow exists as a study only. But the idea of mobility via the battery unit rather than the whole vehicle points in a new direction. In an age where laptop, PC and cell phones have almost fully replaced the traditional phone and communication is electric, concepts of flexible mobility seem to show the way forward.
Eflow then becomes more than a mere utility for everyday city mobility; it becomes a vehicle for modern data traffic. The Eflow’s battery Find out more about Flow AG on www.flowdesign.ch has a myriad uses beyond the obvious one, since it works like a pedelec palm computer and serves as a payment and communication device. — Susanne Brüsch and Nora Manthey Pedelec rental fees for instance could be paid via an electronic system straight through the battery. In its future conception, the battery may serve as a source of power for laptop or mobile device, can be used to ExtraEnergy.org 31
special report Design – EnergyBus
About USB and EBS Standardization means innovation When designing a new product, product designers move within a stress field of creative ideas and constraints that are independent of these ideas. Costs, available parts, technical specifications and legal regulations all need to be considered. When designing light electric vehicles (LEVs), the choice of electrical components in particular is limited by cost and, as in the case of the LEV industry, the lack of an authoritative and freely available standard. The story of progress is about standards. The USB standard was developed by Intel in 1996, but only really started on its road to success when Macintosh decided in 1998 to exclusively use USB for the then new iMacs (and to drop its own ADB standard). Other computer manufacturers followed suit. What came next was a revolution of simplification and differentiation. With a single connection, printers, digital cameras, scanners and other devices could be plugged into one connector, communicate in one language and supply power. Instead of investing time and money in the development of parts of their own that already existed in some shape or form from other manufacturers, the IT industry focused on the development of new devices and functions. A similar progression can be seen in the telecommunications and even automotive industry. Without a universal tank opening, you might have had to refuel your Benz at a Mercedes gas station and your Toyota at a Toyota station. Then cars would certainly not have become the No. 1 transport mode for individuals.
32 ExtraEnergy.org
As much as other industries have used standardization to their advantage, as little does the bicycle industry seem to recognize the hidden potential of standardization to significantly boost market growth. The electric system of an e-bike consists of many individual electrical components, including motor, battery, control system, display and charger, which all have to work together and therefore communicate with each other. Apart from compatible and safe connectors, this requires a communication protocol. To put it simply, this lays down the language and rules for communication that help the elements to exchange information, similar to a protocol for official receptions of dignitaries. Using a standard with a protocol that’s understood by all parts, these can then determine whether a connected charger for instance has the same voltage as the battery. This allows the production of chargers that are compatible with all battery chemistries, including types that still need to be invented. This is the only way to develop a future-proof, common charging infrastructure. Current incompatibility of individual components from different systems provokes proprietary developments and at the same time delays innovation, as many companies lack the know-how or financial prowess for their ideas to mature to production. It requires electrical expertise, software development, connectors and communication protocols, which is synonymous with substantial financial input and time.
special report Design – EnergyBus
The alternative is to choose an existing power system with accessories. Currently a handful of companies exist that offer complete systems, leaving little scope for creative integration of the system or combination of parts. For manufacturers this means either going with a particular system or investing in one of their own – both options limit flexibility. Having a standard for LEVs could allow the industry to focus on the development of functions with high customer value and new vehicle ideas and thereby unlock new markets. For manufacturers, standardization means compatibility, a choice of single components and if nothing else a simplification of proprietary developments. For end-users, parts with compatible plugs and systems that can talk to each other mean a bigger choice of vehicles, simplified supply of parts and increased security.
Global enterprises are increasingly recognizing the benefits of standardization. In recent years Bosch, Inverker (Alba), Magna Marque (BionX), Panasonic, Philipps, Sanyo and 24 others joined EnergyBus, an organization working for the establishment of authoritative and publicly available EnergyBus standards (EBS) for light electric vehicles. Included in its mandate is to develop a set of connectors with high specifications in terms of functionality and safety, and to create a communication protocol in the machine language CAN. Both connector and protocol were first presented to the technical community in 2009 and the first products were exhibited at the Taipei Cycle Show in March 2010. The official release of the protocol and connectors is planned for March 2011 at the Taipei Cycle Show in Taiwan. — Nora Manthey
BUS A “bus” is a data transfer system, which connects several components (functional blocks) of an electrical device. Because several components use the same bus line, the data flow in the resulting bus system has to be controlled through some kind of access method. The parts communicate with each other via a machine language that uses a grammar and vocabulary laid down in the respective communication protocol. This allows the individual components to recognize if a stimulus is relevant and secure. Using the image of a regular omnibus, the protocol tells the components when and where they have to get on or off the bus, i.e. when to connect and when not.
CAN Open The first ever CAN protocol was developed by Bosch in 1983 for use in the automotive industry in order to link the electronic components of cars. Meanwhile the former project has turned into CANopen, comparable to open source software. The organization Can in Automation (CiA) is dedicated to the further development of the machine language and the protocol and is a strategic partner of the EnergyBus association. ExtraEnergy.org 33
E-BIKES: MOBILITÄT
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IHRE E-BIKE PROFICENTER: 21337 Lüneburg Bike Park Lüneburg Käthe-Krüger-Str. 8 Tel: 04131 8530-30 lueneburg@bike-park.de www.bike-park.de 21423 Winsen/Luhe Timm GmbH Luhdorfer Str. 21-23 Tel: 04171 7051-23 winsen@bike-park.de www.bike-park.de 46539 Dinslaken/Niederrhein Zweirad Center Vogel Krengelstr. 131 Gewerbegebiet Mitte Tel: 02064 43396-0 info@vogel-zweirad.de www.vogel-zweirad.de 51069 Köln Zweirad Center Prumbaum Dellbrücker Hauptstr. 43-47 Tel: 0221 681621 info@2rad-prumbaum.de www.2rad-prumbaum.de
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34 ExtraEnergy.org
Tips and Advice
10 Good Reasons
Why pedelecs will become the transport mode of choice → They fulfill most everyday transport needs → Highest mobility output per traffic area → Easy to park (almost everywhere) → Low cost, high performance → Safe → Brings health benefits → Very low emissions (almost no noise, no exhaust fumes...) → Energy efficient, easy to charge with renewable energies → Helps to reduce carbon footprint → They are sustainable This list was prepared by ExtraEnergy for the European Union as part of the GoPedelec! project. Read all about this project on page 196.
ExtraEnergy.org 35
Advice – buying Check before buying your pedelec
Ask yourself where and for what purpose you will mainly use your pedelec. Our pedelec personality test on page 52 might help you answer this question.
Can the bike adapt to your needs (handlebars adjustable, saddle etc.)? Take the bike on a proper test-ride (not just around your dealer’s building). Does the motor support against the hill satisfy your expectations? Is the battery pack easy to remove, replace and lock?
Are you able to carry or at least lift the bike? Let’s say over a sill or up some stairs? Are spares, especially replacement batteries and chargers easily available and affordable? Do you have access to servicing and support in your vicinity?
Do adequate warranties exist, especially for the battery? Read all about batteries and battery care from page 46. Is the bike from a trusted dealer and a well-known brand, or is it a no-name product? Does the bike come with a manual that is easy to understand?
This could be your ad Advertise with ExtraEnergy online–offline or combined ExtraEnergy.org 90.000 visitors 370.000 page impressions per month ExtraEnergy Magazine 52.000 online readers & 18.000 downloads 15.000 print run
Book your advert today The next issue will be out in spring 2011
Für uns ist jeder Tag ein Umwelttag. Contact: dealers@extraenergy.org
36 ExtraEnergy.org
Die10_02_02_tr_anzeige_DV.indd Entscheidung zu Nachhaltigkeit und Klimaschutz 1 02.02.2010 12:41:27 Uhr bedeutet im kleinen auch, den Generationen die nach uns kommen, eine etwas heilere Welt zu hinterlassen.
Advice – price
To Buy or not to Buy For how much, that is the question! Price is one of the strongest factors in the purchase decision. But, price is relative, not absolute. One thousand Euro can sound like a lot, or like a bargain. Apart from the financial capabilities of the customer, and of course the product, whether a price is perceived as fair, depends on the value the customer attributes the product. Factors playing a role in the perception of “value for money” (or fair price), are the selection on offer, the persuasive power of the seller and the buyer’s expectations, i.e. the price he has in mind. The question is: how much do you want to spend on it? Pedelecs and e-bikes are relatively new products and the consumer’s cost expectations are still fluid. A survey by ExtraEnergy and German health insurer AOK in 2010 found that interested cyclists are put off from buying electric bikes because they feel that prices are too high. Electric bikes are still regarded as bicycles with a motor, and compared to the cost of a bicycle, the average price of 1,700 to 2,400 € for a good pedelec can cause any interested buyer to start perspiring. Pedelecs are not bicycles with motors stuck on. They are light electric vehicles, meaning that on top of the cost of the bicycle, there are the electric components such as battery, motor, power electronics and sensors. But electrifying bicycles in this way gives rise to completely new applications due to compensation of head winds, hills and increased loads such as child trailers. The fast growth of the LEV market is accompanied by a bigger selection of pedelecs and e-bikes. Differentiation no longer happens just by appearance, functionality and quality, but just as much by price.
Today, prices can range from 80 to 60,000 € and often, if not always, prices do reflect the differences between the products. Quality doesn’t necessarily equal expensive, and a good deal doesn’t have to be cheap. We’ve taken a closer look at the different price segments. Our overview below tells you what you can expect for your money.
ExtraEnergy recommends Try before you buy Before you take the plunge, go on a test ride. Don’t hesitate to try a model that you’re not attracted to at first sight; get to know about the differences. Go to a specialist dealer Your best bet for competent advice, guarantees and supply of spares. Do your research You may trust your specialized dealer, but that shouldn’t stop you from finding out about the different models available for yourself. Ask for warranties When buying from small workshops or manufactures and especially when buying online – always ask for warranties, guaranteed supply of spares and battery recycling, availability even after the possible closedown of the business. Online risks Be careful when buying online. We always advise against buying ultra cheap new vehicles offered on the internet. ExtraEnergy.org 37
Advice – price
8.000 to 60.000 €
As astonishing as it may sound, there are pedelecs around costing almost 60,000 €. This is a sign that vehicles powered by muscle and electrics are prestigious enough to demand a steep price. They are rare beasts and that alone may make them a worthwhile financial investment. Technologically speaking none of the vehicles in this range is particularly special in terms of their electronics. Rather, they generate their value from select materials, exclusive design and the rarity factor. This is set to change in coming years when more and more technologies will surface on the pedelec market.
4.000 to 8.000 €
This category is relatively new and can be attributed to the development of special LEVs that no longer have much in common with conventional bicycles. A few very exclusive products exist that usually distinguish themselves by featuring a special design and/or particular technical functions. Often these products are made in low numbers, i.e. they are more likely to come from workshops or are bespoke models made to customer specifications. These vehicles are best bought directly from the bike dealer. If only few bikes are produced or the company is small, it is worth checking whether warranty and parts supply is assured for every eventuality. ! When choosing your bike, be sure to consider whether you really get what you pay for.
2.400 to 4.000 €
Many of the fast pedelecs fall in this category. They are more lavishly equipped, regular pedelecs with power up to 25 km/h as well as special cargo bikes. Here customers like to pay for a name representing quality, style or prestige. Specialist dealers are recommended as they can best guarantee correct maintenance and repair as well as good supply of spare parts. ! If you don’t go to a specialized dealer, you might be in danger of purchasing an overpriced, low quality product.
1.700 to 2.400 €
This is where you’ll find most of the recommended products by well-known manufacturers. Usually you get good value for money in this segment. If you want specialist maintenance, good availability of spares and professional advice, buying from specialized retailers is recommended. You should always ask for a test ride, because even if products have similar price tags, handling and performance as well as the power system can vary greatly. ! Look out for those inventive retailers trying to upgrade a low quality bike by simply upping the price.
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Advice – price
1.200 to 1.700 €
There are some products in this range that can be recommended at a reasonable price. But for this price there are also products which are technically speaking no better than pedelecs sold at discount stores, but in order to be sold in specialty stores simply get a brand name sticker and are then sold for 500 to 800 € more. It may happen that you will buy a product for the same price, where the battery fails after just one year, or another product where the battery is still reliable after five years. The availability situation for spare parts can be similar. ! In each individual case it will be worthwhile to take a closer look and gather more information.
500 to 1.200 €
Products in this range should be bought only at a supermarket you trust. Current offers at discount stores such as Aldi, or Tchibo range between 599 and 799 €. These products are really lowpriced and come with a reasonable guarantee. But technically speaking these bikes are quite simple and cannot compete with the features of products sold for 1,700 € to 2,400 € at specialty stores. You should gather additional independent information regarding each product. ! In no case whatsoever should pedelecs be bought on the internet at this price.
80 to 500 €
However tempting this very low price may seem to you – new goods sold at this price are always a losing bargain, meaning they are junk fresh from the factory. Such offers can quite often be found at E-bay, Amazon or other sources on the internet. These products often come with cheap and heavy lead-acid batteries, are not equipped according to road traffic regulations and do not conform to established minimum standards. The vehicles offered in this range are often sold as registration-free pedelecs, but are actually e-bikes for which registration is required. Availability of spare parts is hardly ever warranted. ! Sometimes you will find low-priced used vehicles in this range that are worth their price, but never new ones.
Note This is just a general classification of price ranges. As always in life: “the exception proves the rule.” There are, for example, small companies who have a solid grip on their spare parts distribution, but the situation of small companies may often change quickly for any kind of reason. Well-known manufacturers may also experience shortages in supply, but when several 100,000 pieces of a particular motor have been sold, it will always be worthwhile to reproduce out-of-stock spare parts. It can be assumed that prices for 2010 and 2011 will show an upward trend, simply due to worldwide currency fluctuations, such as the currently “expensive” Japanese Yen, and due to the most laudable wage increases for Chinese factory workers. ExtraEnergy.org 39
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Advice – Glossary
Pedelecs and E-bikes are different Animals The 101 of electric vehicles Electric bicycles are everywhere – on everyone’s lips, in the media, on the internet and in the streets. Riding an electric bicycle is not embarrassing anymore - it’s hot. But it is not always clear what everybody is talking about. There are two terms circulating – pedelec and e-bike – they seem to describe the same thing, but that’s far from the truth. So, what is behind the term “e-bike” and what exactly is a “pedelec”?
In the media “e-bike” is often used as a catchy generic term. This causes confusion, since about 90 % of the “e-bikes” sold in Europe’s leading markets (the Netherlands and Germany) are actually pedelecs. The motorcycle and scooter industry contributes further to this “definition confusion” by claiming the term “e-bike” as their property. They use it to describe real motor-powered cycles, without pedals.
ExtraEnergy assumes improving battery technology will lead to more powerful and faster electric two-wheelers. Therefore, electric bicycles controlled by a twist grip are a species on the evolutionary advance. They will lose their pedals sometime in future, and their design will evolve away from the traditional bicycle towards a scooter. At the same time, pedelecs (powered by pedal force) will become increasingly important in everyday life. Health benefits, the desire for sports activities in everyday life, their similarity to bicycles and the ongoing deOn the other hand, e-bikes are e-vehicles with pedals, where the mo- velopment towards faster pedelecs all contribute to the upward trend. tor assistance is controlled via a twist grip, or turning handle, and the These trends make it even more pertinent – for customers, industry motor assists regardless of what the rider does, ie. regardless of wheth- and the lawmaker – to distinguish clearly between the different kinds of e-vehicles. er he pedals, or not.
The term “pedelec” comes from “pedal electric cycle” and was coined to help distinguish between the various types (or rather motor systems) of light electric vehicles (LEV). Susanne Brüsch first coined the term “pedelec” in 1999, when the market was still in its start-up phase. Today pedelec is an established term in Europe and is used when referring to electric cycles with pedals (ie. where the rider pedals along). In fact, the motor only assists, when the cyclist pedals.
This distinction is necessary, because e-bikes are considered to be mopeds in most European countries, where they are regulated in a specific way. On the other hand, pedelecs (their motors assist up to 25 km/h and have a maximum effective motor output of 250 watts) are legally considered to be bicycles. This means, that they may be used without safety helmet, driving license and insurance plate, wherever it is allowed to ride a bicycle. All other LEVs must conform to the legal categories established for fuel-driven scooters and motorcycles. Most electric two- and three-wheelers fall into the moped category. But the legal term “moped” does not quite describe the character of those vehicles and is therefore only seldom used in everyday speech.
It is not always so easy to place newly developed products in their proper, legal “boxes”, because designers, marketers and engineers are blazing new routes. On top of that, the distinction between e-bike and e-scooter is not clear and the speed-pedelec category still contains legal gray areas. So, we’ll kick off with the widely used terms and then go to the legal categories, listing the requirements for each type of vehicle and the prerequisites for their use.
ExtraEnergy.org 41
Advice – Glossary
Light Electric Vehicle (LEV) Internationally, the term LEV is understood to include all single- or multiple-track light vehicles (up to 250 kg) with electric motors. This includes all kinds of pedelecs, the e-bike, e-scooter, electric wheelchairs, vehicles such as the Segway and small robots, machinery and sports equipment
Electric bicycle = pedelec and e-bike Electric bicycle is an overarching term including pedelec and e-bike.
Pedelec = acceleration by pedaling
E-bike = acceleration by hand
Pedelec stands for pedal electric cycle and means the cyclist gets motor support when he pedals (and only when he pedals!) via a sensor.
These are electric bicycles with motors supporting independently from the pedal, ie. a pure electric motor. The contribution of the motor is controlled by a twist grip, or similar control element. The cyclist may use the electric motor only, or he may select to pedal along. E-bikes are mopeds, with a registration authorizing a speed of up to 20 km/h. So, they may be used without a safety helmet.
Pedelecs up to 25 km/h The traditional and most widely sold pedelec in Europe assists up to a speed of 25 km/h and has a nominal engine capacity of 250 watts. These pedelecs are classified as bicycles in Germany and other EU countries.
S-pedelec (fast pedelec) The motors of s-pedelecs support beyond a speed of 25 km/h when the rider pedals, and require official approval for road service as mopeds. In Germany, most s-pedelecs may be ridden on pure electric (ie. using the twist grip, no pedaling) at low speeds of up to 20 km/h, because it is not required to wear a safety helmet on motor-operated bicycles for speeds up to 20 km/h in Germany. The motor may assist pedaling for speeds of up to 45 km/h.
E-scooter = scooter with or without a seat E-scooters come in different kinds and shapes, starting from a motorized kickboard up to an electric moped. They are simply electric vehicles without pedals. So far, we can distinguish between three different categories: Kickboards and standing scooters Scooters on which you stand. Instead of pushing off with one foot, you twist the grip on the handlebar. They are not permitted on public streets in the EU and may only be used on private property. Small seated scooters Small scooters equipped with seats; also operated by an acceleration grip on the handlebar. They are usually a little larger and heavier than standing scooters. The configuration can be quite different and ranges from plain, sporty, or cool, to a wide seat with large shopping basket. Large E-scooters Electric mopeds, or large electric scooters are often very similar to traditional Vespa-style fuel scooters. Being classified as mopeds, all scooters with seats must be registered. The maximum speed that the manufacturer will allow depends on the respective target group, the design and technical specifications.
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Advice – Glossary
What the Law says of LEVs
Low capacity mopeds (up to 20 km/h or 25 km/h) These include: S-pedelecs, e-bikes and e-scooters
The regulations applying to LEV are partly written by the European Union and partly by each member state. Registration, top speeds, motor performances and other technical requirements are governed by the EU. Some standards and safety regulations apply Europe-wide, or are incorporated into national law by European directives.
Low capacity mopeds are two-wheelers or three-wheelers, whose purely electrically powered maximum design speed exceeds 25 km/h, with a nominal motor capacity limited to 1 kW. If the top speed is limited to 20 km/h, instead of 25 km/h, s-pedelecs, e-bikes and e-scooters registered under this rule (mainly the smaller ones, even including the Regulations such as that a helmet is mandatory, insurance plates must Segway) may be used without wearing a safety helmet in Germany. In be fitted, a driver’s license must be carried, age limits and specifica- the Netherlands, the requirement to wear a safety helmet begins at a tions where a motorized bicycle may be used, are matters decided on speed of 25 km/h. a national level. Therefore, there are certain differences between EU Low capacity mopeds are an exemption within the category of twocountries. wheel mopeds up to 45 km/h, and are also called L1e-class. Simplified Despite European harmonization, differences regarding the registra- technical provisions apply to low capacity mopeds regarding their comtion practice can be found especially in England and Austria. In prin- ponents. For example, it is sufficient to mount bicycle lighting, but a ciple, all motorcycles will be homologated according to EU directive rear view mirror must also be in place. To use them as small mopeds 2002/24/EG. This needs to be taken care of by the manufacturer or the in Germany, insurance plates and certificates proving their capabilities are required. importing agent.
In general, the following applies
Mopeds up to 45 km/h These include: e-bikes and e-scooters with a top speed of up to 45 km/h
EPAC up to 25 km/h = bicycle These include: all pedelecs up to 25 km/h
These are motorized bicycles und tricycles, with a maximum design speed not exceeding 45 km/h and a maximum motor capacity of 4 kW in case of electric motors. These vehicles require moped lighting, tires Electronically Power Assisted Cycles (EPAC) is the legal description ap- conforming to type and a rear view mirror, among other things. To use plying to pedelecs in the EU. As long as the motor does not assist be- them in Germany, an adequate safety helmet, insurance plate and at yond 25 km/h when pedaling, and the nominal engine capacity is lim- least a class M driver’s license are mandatory. ited to 250 watt and the bicycle, or tricycle is equipped with functionFurther provisions ing pedals, it will be regarded as a bicycle. Then all regulations that apply to bicycles in EU countries, also apply in Germany: they may Manufacturers and dealers must observe Europe-wide safety provibe used without a safety helmet, insurance plate and driving license sions for the transport of batteries as well as new rules regarding the recycling of batteries. Industrial standards such as BATSO and GS are wherever bicycles are allowed. optional, but strongly recommended. More about this on page 49. Pedelecs must conform to EU standard 15194. This norm mainly regulates the definition of the nominal capacity, a top speed of 25 km/h, — Susanne Brüsch and Nora Manthey the reliability of cabling and the electro-magnetic compatibility (EMC). This standard also mentions that (in addition to this) all standards pertaining to bicycles also apply. These relate to components such as bicycle frames, wheels, brakes, handlebars, etc. In addition, pedelecs must adhere to the machinery directive.
Legal denotation and requirements
Bicycle
Low capacity mopeds Mopeds up to 45 km/h up to 20 km/h (25 km/h)
LEV Type
Pedelec
S-Pedelec, E-Bike, E-Scooter
E-Bike, E-Scooter
Motor capacity
250 W
1 kW
4 kW
Maximum speed
25 km/h
45 km/h, 20 km/h (25 km/h)
45 km
Safety helmet
none
none (yes if electrically supported only up to 25 km/h in Germany)
obligatory
Insurance plate
none
obligatory
obligatory
Drivers license
none
obligatory
obligatory
ExtraEnergy.org 43
advice – motors
Motor systems – an Overview Front, middle, or at the back? People often claim there are not much more efficiency-gains to be had from electric bike motors. That is not true. Look at the discrepancies between the text book efficiency percentages of up to 98% (also shown in many brochures) and the actual efficiency achieved in practice, you’ll agree that there is still lots of potential
for further development. Today, degrees of efficiency between 35% and 45% are standard. Efficiency drops are mainly registered at take-off, which explains the much shorter range achieved by batteries in city traffic.
Hub motor in rear wheel + + +
Good traction (tire grip) Easily combined with existing gear system, when chain shift (some systems are also available with integrated hub gear shift, such as BionX) Conversion kit easily fitted
– – – –
Wiring must be disconnected when changing tires Back heavy when used in combination with battery on carrier Non-suspended weight inside wheel In most cases no backpedal brake possible
Examples BionX, TranzX, Bafang, Heinzmann, Sparta (Accell), Ultra Motor and many more.
Center drive + + + + + +
Low center of gravity Central drive weight and within the suspension range (in case of a suspension frame) Little weight to carry in the wheels No disconnection of wiring necessary. In case of flat tire, wheels remain as in the traditional bicycles Not failure-prone, thanks to compact design and short wires Uncomplicated installation, if well-integrated into the frame
– – –
Impossible or difficult to convert, since motors positioned in middle usually require special frames More development effort required around bicycle design Usually no backpedal brake possible
Examples Panasonic, Yamaha, Bosch, Velocity, Electragil, Sunstar, and many more.
Hub drive in front wheel + + + +
Simple design Easy to convert Free choice of gear mechanism at the rear wheel Backpedal brake easy to install
– – –
Traction problems (wheelspin) when taking off on a hill, or on slippery surfaces Risk of accidents when converting high capacity motors on forks that are not suitable Non-suspended weight inside wheel
Examples TranzX, Heinzmann, Sanyo, Panasonic, Elebike, Bafang, Chindalang, Libahuang, Tongchin, Schachner, and many, many more. (Roughly 2,000–3,000 suppliers in China)
Power sensor versus motion sensor Whether a power sensor or motion sensor is better, is an oft-posed question. This is essentially a matter of taste. ExtraEnergy’s advice is to try out bikes with both sensor types, to find out which suits you better. It will be best to test-ride several bikes, because there are also differences between the various sensors. 44 ExtraEnergy.org
Some motion sensor systems will tempt you to just use the pedals in a leisurely manner, simply turning the pedals and letting the motor do most of the work. This cannot happen with power sensor systems, because the motor will only assist you relative to the muscle power you contribute. So, as far as your personal fitness is concerned, power
sensors are the better choice. If the control is well-designed, the cyclist will get the impression all the driving power comes from him. Only when cycling without the motor will the cyclist notice how much assistance the motor is contributing.
advice – motors
Which is the Motor of the Future? ExtraEnergy discovered this gap between theory and practice already in early tests. For instance, a pedelec by manufacturer Kasbauer reached the highest average efficiency percentage in a test ride with an alternating current motor – although these motors usually register lower efficiency percentages than continuous current motors. The Kasbauer drive efficiency was measured at 50% to 70%, which was higher than continuous current motors in the test. This result speaks for excellent electronic motor activation. The strong influence of the electronic system on the motor properties became apparent, when a Wavecrest motor measured a much longer range in the “turbo” mode than in the much weaker “eco” mode. It was determined later that the discrepancy was due to the software settings of the “eco” mode. This resulted in a larger part of the battery energy being converted to heat, instead of propulsion.
ExtraEnergy believes the center motor has the highest potential in the long term. However, this does not yet apply to today’s generation of center motors, but rather to the generation of motors that will turn pedelecs into real hybrid vehicles. An electric bike will become a real hybrid vehicle when the forces of the human body and the motor are optimally attuned to each other. The bike must not dart off once the pedals role, but should rather be a proportional “extension” of the individual human wattage. This requires drives with a control that does not only keep the motor within the ideal degree-of-efficiency range, but also involves the human being. The humanmachine-control needs to know the cyclist’s heart rate and blood pressure just as much as it needs to know all data of the electric motor (motor temperature, battery capacity, etc.). Such a motor could considerably increase the overall efficiency. At the same time, the
human energies are transformed into locomotion more efficiently and increase the fun factor of cycling. In the end, the cyclist’s buying decision depends on his satisfaction. So, drive software is a decisive factor for success in the long run. The more it unites both energy systems (human being and machine), the higher the feel good factor will be on the bike. Solutions may be of a mechanical kind, such as developed by PhD Frank Möller from the English company NexxtDrive, or of an electrical kind, such as the “electronic bike” concept developed by Harald Kutzke (Bonn) and Andreas Fuchs (Bern). One thing is certain: many innovations lie in wait for us in the next 20 years. — Hannes Neupert
ExtraEnergy.org 45
Advice – BATTERY – Lifespan
How Discharge Levels influence the Lifespan of your Battery by Hannes Neupert
Many people believe their batteries will last longest if they recharge it only when the batteries are completely empty. This is a popular misconception. Hybrid cars have proved the contrary is true and gave us valuable pointers on how to achieve long battery life.
two main reasons: the customer does not demand it and vehicle manufacturers and specialty dealers lack the electro-chemical expertise. In the end, those suppliers win the day, which are willing to compromise on lifespan for lower prices. And the big loser is: battery safety. On June 26 this year German TV news station n-tv editor Alexander Klement reported on the news station’s online portal how quickly batteries manufactured by Derby Cycle discharge to empty.
In hybrid cars the charge and discharge status changes automatically and constantly. This results in thousands of partial charge cycles. Batteries for hybrid cars are usually given a guarantee of up to 100,000 km, “Here at n-tv.de we have been test-cycling various bikes with the common Panasonic motor for one and half years. We use or 8 years. If these batteries were always a 26 V/10 ampere hours battery. The cyclist’s fully discharged, their lifespans would drop How to extend the life pedal power is doubled at a medium assisto about 500 cycles. of your battery* tance level. A 15 km long trip to work without any noteworthy slopes in Berlin serves as test Hybrid cars have proven in big numbers Use that batteries last the longest when they track. In the beginning it was possible to cov→ Recharge the battery after every use (reer this distance four times with just one batare neither fully charged, nor fully disgardless of the amount of energy withdrawn) tery charge without any problems. But, on the charged. Then they deliver their highest energy outputs over their lifespans and their 4th trip it did not take the battery very long to Storage hit the wall, forcing us to ride home on musgreatest efficiency. The battery life large→ Store in a cool, dry place cle power alone. Therefore, we charged the batly depends on the way the electronic sys→ Avoiding freezing temperatures teries every 45 km. Meanwhile, the battery tem limits charging and discharging of the → Do not recharge below temperatures of 10°C has served for about 7,000 km. According to battery, to achieve the maximum lifespan. → Recharge the battery before storing it for a Manufacturers of many different applicathe display, it still has about 80% of its origilonger period of time and recharge regularly nal capacity left. In reality, we judge ourselves tions, such as laptops and cell phones, do during storage time. For highly developed syslucky when we manage the 30 km to and from not emphasize lifespan, but rather maxitems, such as the Panasonic motor, it is suffiwork. This example shows that the manufacmum capacity. This often results in a short cient to recharge the battery at room temperturers may be right when they speak of a total lifespan, which is usually accepted by the ature every 6 months. The Accell Group bikes consumer, because the high capacity is simrange of 20,000 km.” with their in-house systems should always reply so attractive. main connected to the charging device during This experience of the n-tv editorial office longer storage periods. In the pedelec sector many manufacturers corresponds with the experiences of other users. If a battery is used till it is comlack clear strategies. They focus mostly on *These tips apply to all lithium, nickel-metal hydride and lead acid batteries sold in the biking sector in 2010. pletely empty, its capacity will decrease afsourcing their batteries at a low price. Lifester just a short period of time and will be pan optimization is seldom heard of. For 46 ExtraEnergy.org
Advice – BATTERY – Lifespan
much lower after just one or two years. If the user recharges the battery once, or maybe even twice a day, eg. at home and at work, hardly no loss in capacity will be noticed. ExtraEnergy estimates the partialload lifespan of the Panasonic/NEC Tokio batteries at 5 to 8 years with an operational capacity of around 300,000 to 400,000Wh, in contrast to only 100,000 to 150,000 Wh when completely loaded. That is more than double the lifespan achievable by correct usage. Coming back to the n-tv case, it would seem the manufacturer, or dealer, who had equipped the editors with the pedelec, had neglected to pass this important, life-stretching information on to the editors. This is not an isolated case. In fact, one of the largest cycle dealers in Germany trains its dealers exactly the opposite, namely that the battery should always be run right down before recharging. In the short-term this may be good for the dealer, because they sell more replacement batteries, but this approach damages the environment and the market and hits the customer’s pocket.
Every manufacturer advertises its battery as using the world’s best technology. Often they use specialist terms with no regard to correctness. All that matters is that the product comes over as being high tech and value for money. ExtraEnergy’s advice: “It does not matter which chemical is in the battery, rather its characteristics are crucial. The raw materials, mechanical construction and above all electronics (particularly the electronic protection circuit and the charger) are important for a long lifetime. The Accel Group uses an average NiMhd battery produced in China by the firm Gold Peak in its products. But, good electronics and a good charger brought good results. So much so, that Accel decided to give a 5-year guarantee. Much better batteries without good electronics would, on average, not last as long. At the end of the day, the efficiency of a battery is determined by its weakest component. So don’t be influenced by inflated advertising speak, but ask how long the manufacturer’s lifetime guarantee for the battery is.”
ExtraEnergy.org 47
Advice – Battery – Recycling
Transportbehälter für Lithium-Batterien ohne UN-T
Transportbehälter für Lithium-Batterien mit UN-T
“Clean” batteries carry labels by Peter Gutzeit
In March 2010 the new battery law (BattG) with EG Battery Guidelines came in force. The law contains guidelines on „how to bring batteries to the market, how they should be returned and how to dispose of batteries and accumulators in an environmentally
sound way”. In other words, it defines the return and disposal obligations of the retailer and manufacturer. These parties are now obligated to take back every battery sold and to recycle them as prescribed.
Fines of up to €50,000 are payable for placing batteries on the market which are not registered for disposal control on the public database of the Federal Environment Office (FEO). A functioning take-back procedure (with guaranteed recycling) must be in place – a responsibility which stand-alone businesses can only accept with great difficulty. Therefore, IB-Rec developed a recycling system in cooperation with ExtraEnergy, which entail the labeling of batteries by their manufacturers to show consumers and retailers the batteries conform to the regulations for recycling.
Batteries with no UN-T certificates may not be transported and sold in Germany. That has been the case since 2003. Until now, compliance with this guideline has not been policed properly. BattG will change this situation. Why? Because batteries have to be transported to be recycled, meaning they must be UN-T certified.
In February 2010 IB-Rec GmbH created a recycling label, which batteries with valid UN-T certificates may display, when their disposal is paid for. Serious suppliers who have their batteries tested can join the initiative and buy recycling labels. Disposal and documentation will then Today’s large lithium batteries for two-wheeled vehicles, with capaci- be handled by IB-Rec, in the same way as done by the „green point”. The ties of up to 300 Wh and weights of up to 3 kg, can be dangerous. If initiative reduces cost for retailers and manufacturers, while assuring they are used incorrectly they can explode. Therefore, the FEO classi- consumers that the labeled batteries they buy will be disposed of legalfied pedelec batteries as industrial batteries. They are defined as Class ly and in an environmentally friendly way. 9 hazardous material, and must be transported in accordance with the relevant guidelines (ADR). These have been pre-defined on a Europe- — Peter Gutzeit is managing director of IB-Rec GmbH wide level, but resemble the security standards of the United Nations (UN) closely. The UN drew up a catalogue of test criteria in 2003, to minimize the risk associated with transport. Batteries passing presExtraEnergy e.V. supports the initiative of IB-Rec GmbH, because sure, shake and temperature tests (among others) are given test certifia recycling system with clear labeling is the only way towards the cates as conforming to UN transport guidelines (UN-T). If a battery passsecure, sustainable and legal trading of electronic bicycles. es the BATSO test, it is guaranteed to conform to UN-T 38.3. 48 ExtraEnergy.org
Advice – Battery – Safety
TÜV Rheinland Labor für BATSO-Zertifizierung in Shenzhen, China
Prüfstand für Dauervibrationstest (»Schütteltest«)
Battery Safety Organization Lithium batteries have a very high energy density and are therefore very popular in the LEV market. At the same time they are potentially dangerous. When the first e-bikes were sold with lithium batteries 10 years ago, a number of cases were reported of
batteries catching fire. ExtraEnergy thus developed a test procedure for Deutsche Post for testing and classifying batteries as safe. So, the Battery Safety Organization (BATSO) was born.
Several internationally renowned institutes cooperated to develop the test procedure. In 2007 BATSO started working with the two most important test authorities in the world: the American Underwriter Laboratories and TÜV Rheinland and with the public Taiwanese organization ITRI Institute.
B The BATSO test includes the UN-T 38.3 test prescribed by law, aimed at improving transport safety, and tests for safety in use and operation. Included are, among others, the partial short-circuit, drop test and crash test.
C Regular control of the manufacturing process on location is part The BATSO test is not yet compulsory, but it is an important support of the BATSO certification process. Experienced inspectors from TÜV for the industry. In the first half of 2010 alone unsafe batteries have Rheinland examine whether the rules are adhered to in the factory, caused several large fires in Europe. A bicycle, a battery factory, several and whether the products adhere to the tested quality. bicycle shops, private houses and garages were burnt down. These fires The test protocol can be downloaded at no cost on www.batso.org. Here could have been prevented with a BATSO test. you’ll also find the contact details of the two TÜV test laboratories (in Legislation only regulates the testing of lithium batteries in terms of Shenzhen, China and in Nuremberg, Germany). UN-T 38.3. Before successfully passing this test, lithium batteries may not be transported. This test makes the transportation of hazardous materials safer. It doesn’t, however, concern itself with safety during use. BATSO covers this gap. BATSO is a project ExtraEnergy manages with other partners. BATIn 2010 TÜV Rheinland became the first test lab to test and certify batSO is earmarked to become an independent association, with repteries in line with BATSO 01 and the Chinese manufacturer Phylion beresentatives of industry, retail and the test laboratories as memcame the first to have its batteries awarded the BATSO certificate. bers. It uses state of the art technology. The tests for safety in use are an undeniable plus for the protection of retailers and endTÜV Rheinland offers manufacturers a complete service: consumers. ExtraEnergy would like to see that all participants in this sector – battery manufacturers, vehicle manufacturers, A Preliminary tests (when only critical points are tested) help bicycle distributors, retailers and consumers of lithium batteries – use manufacturers with a number of batteries to choose from, to quickly nothing but batteries carrying the BATSO test certificates. select the safest batteries. ExtraEnergy.org 49
Advice – Safety – GS Sign
EMV testing machine at SLG laboratory in Hartmannsdorf, Germany
GS Symbols for Pedelecs For Stronger Consumer Protection
For the past 25 years the EU Commission has pursued a policy of stand- the manufacturer only confirms that it has adhered to one of more ardization of norms and legal guidelines in the European Community
than 25 EG guidelines. The CE Guidelines consists of 8 modules (A to H),
known as the “New Approach”. Harmonization is a big factor in the
which can be adhered to individually, or in combination. The CE sym-
success of the internal EU market. Today products can be easily distrib- bol was not introduced for the benefit of the consumers, but rather as uted all over Europe thanks to unified regulations.
a market access symbol for supervising authorities!
GS certificate for Pedelecs
The EU’s consumer protection regulations are not valid in Switzerland, as
Switzerland is not a member of the EU. So, it is theoretically possi- GS stands for “safety-tested”. The GS certificate was launched in Gerble for Swiss firms to market products in the EU, which do not adhere
many in 1977. It is a safety symbol supervised by the state to inform
to the EU guidelines. In Germany this unsatisfactory arrangement is
the consumer. The GS symbol tells the consumer that the ready-to-use
a growing problem, with guidelines being sidestepped for a price ad- product carrying the certificate adheres to the technical safety standvantage in the market. In China more than 20 million electric bicy- ards of the European Equipment and Product Safety Act (GSPS). An indecles are sold every year. These are mostly cheap, low quality products.
pendently, accredited test laboratory tests ready-to-use products and
They also find buyers in Germany. Imported bicycles are neither sub- supervises their manufacture. The safety test labs are subject to state jected to type tests, nor to safety tests. Instead, they are marketed in-
approval and supervision and perform tests in accordance with general
dependently by manufacturers or importers. Should consumers have
test principles, which go much wider than simply safety norms.
damage claims, they can only hold the manufacturer liable – if that is possible.
The conditions for obtaining the GS symbol are: → the manufacturer must prove that he can manufacture products
Products are stuck full of quality seal and certificates, which may, how- ever, mean any number of things. „Tested by…“ does say much, since
of constant quality,
→ the product was tested with prevailing, basic test principles and
no-one knows how the vehicle was tested. With a CE seal, for instance, → later tests of the production batch produced no complaints 50 ExtraEnergy.org
Advice – Safety – GS Sign The GS seal for pedelecs exists since May 2010. The basic test principles were formulated in 2009 by Schweinfurt-based velotech.de, in cooperation with SLG and ExtraEnergy e.V., following comprehensive research. Pedelecs are bicycles with additional motor support. Compared to bicycles, they have to absorb additional operational strains. Among these strains: → higher average speeds → harder and more numerous braking actions → additional motor rotations → faster hill-climbing → heavier loads → has to tow loads more often Foreseeable misuse should be covered by the test, such as: → manipulating speed of the motor → manipulating engine torque for easier take-offs Technical safety examinations should cover the intended uses as specified by the manufacturer, as well as foreseeable, obvious ways in which the vehicle could be misused. If the manufacturer’s instructions are insufficient, then they must be expanded or edited by the test institute at the outset. The benchmarks should be normal use, the special features of the product (brand, price etc.) and the state of technology. Test bench for brakes at velotech.de in Schweinfurt. Here the brakes can be tested for their effectiveness in different environmental conditions such as wet and dry conditions, in circumstances which are entirely repeatable.
— Ernst Brust , managing director of velotech.de
Basic Test Principles These principles apply for the testing of pedelecs for the GS seal. Excluded are vehicles with a maximum saddle height of <435 mm and vehicles requiring operating licenses in terms of the Road Traffic Law (StVZO). A pedelec is defined as a cycle with electric motor support activated by pedaling. The performance of the cyclist is doubled to a maximum, continuous, rated power of 0,25 kW, whereby the contribution of the motor is gradually reduced from 20 km/h and completely withheld from 25 km/h.
Irrigation test at SLG
Minimum requirements are: → Machine guidelines 2006/42/EG → Cycle characteristics and operational stability according to DIN plus 2006 → Performance measurement according to EN 15194 → Secure electronic equipment → Electro-magnetic compatibility → Equipment according to StVZO → Steering according to EN 13849 Level C → Battery and charger → ZEK resolution for PAK (pollutants) → Dynamically tested on the rolling test benc
ExtraEnergy.org 51
Advice – Pedelec personality test
The type Test Which pedelec fits to me? New products appear on the market almost daily, widening the choice for consumers, but also making it more difficult to find the right pedelec. Product differentiation takes a new meaning, as manufacturers try to satisfy ever more diverse demands. ExtraEnergy’s new appraisal method answers the question: “which product satisfies which client wishes the best”. The test team defined eleven product groups, such as Easy Pedelecs for e-mobility in the cities, Fast Pedelecs for business types and Sport Pedelecs for action junkies. The groups all satisfy the same 14 client demands, but with different weightings for different uses. For a better overview we sorted the 11 pedelec types into 4 big groups, namely city, comfort, leisure and transport. You will find the detailed type descriptions on page 60.
1 Where does your typical pedelec track run?
City
City and countryside
Valleys and hills
2 What level of comfort do you expect from your display? www
300m
Produktgruppen Übersicht City
comfort
Easy Business Mixed Mobility
City Comfort Classic Reha
LEISURE
Transport
Tour Sport Wellness
Family Utility
Simple
Multi-medial
3 How fast do you mostly cycle?
Low speed
Do-it-yourself Test
Comfortable
Medium speed
Fast
4 How much do you have to transport?
Only you know which pedelec satisfies your needs best. Our tests help you find your “best fit”. But, before you study our test reports, submit yourself to a little self-test. Ask yourself on which surfaces you will ride your pedelec most often. For instance in the city, or on stretches with steep hills? Which electric vehicle characteristics are indispensable to you? Should your control unit be a high-tech job, or should it only tell you how much juice there is left in the battery? Answer five basic questions and find out which pedelec type suits you best.
Hand luggage
Luggage
Heavier loads
5 How portable, or transportable should your pedelec be?
Orientate yourself by looking at the pictogram. The types are not mutually exclusive. Should at least three demands fit to you, your dream pedelec might be in that product group. Have fun! Push only 52 ExtraEnergy.org
Carry
Easy to carry (foldable)
Advice – product groups
Product groups Appraisal Do you find yourself in a picture? Our evaluation follows on the next pages. Simply find the product group which satisfies your
demands best and you’ll be a big step closer to your ideal pedelec.
City · easy
With the Easy Pedelec you can zip around town effortlessly and with the minimum of stress. The vehicle attracts attention, thanks to its strong resemblance to traditional bicycles. Easy Pedelecs are relatively light, easy-running and easy to handle. The electric motor makes trips from A to B, short excursions and sight-seeing tours in the city easier and more enjoyable. The support given by the partly-hidden
electric motor is especially noticeable on hills and when taking off from a standing position. A range of up to 20 km is attainable. Typically, the Easy Pedelec has a low crossbar, which makes getting on and off the bike easy. When a reasonable purchase price and uncomplicated mobility are more important to you, than striking design and technical sophistication, then the Easy Pedelec is for you. You will find an overview of the Easy Pedelecs tested by ExtraEnergy on page 74.
city · Business www
300m
Do you travel around the city regularly, maybe even operate a professional courier service? Then the Business Pedelec was made for you. Here the crucial preconditions are: a range of at least 30 km and high average speed. To be defined as a pedelec in the Business Class by ExtraEnergy, the bike must at least average 26 km/h over a 5 km stretch. Normally, that can only be achieved by so-called Fast Pedelecs (s-pedelecs), which have to be insured in Germany. The advantage of being insured: your high-quality lightning streak is
protected from thieves. Sporty, classy and chic are the style characteristics of the Business Pedelec. Naturally, price doesn’t play a (big) role here. More important to the Business e-cyclist are solid, city-wise fittings (fenders, lights, bike stand, baggage carrier) and strong support (also under the toughest conditions, such as climbs up hills), defined as support which doubles the effort you put in (sfactor of 1). The multi-media display unit gives you full control over your vehicle and its performance. That is a business class pedelec! You will find an overview of all Business Pedelecs tested by ExtraEnergy on page 114.
city · Mixed Mobility be stowed safely. The battery can be re-charged quickly and without removing it from the bike. With a Mix Mobility Pedelec you literally hold a practical, compact vehicle in your hand.
Small, but classy and very mobile! The Mixed Mobility Pedelec is ideal for so-called hybrid commuters, ie. people who commute part of the distance to and from work every day with a bus, metro, train, or car. This pedelec is designed to make life easier for people in metropolitan areas. It is flexible, mobile and light, so you can take your pedelec with you in your home, hotel, office or restaurant, where it can
You will find an overview of Mixed Mobility Pedelecs tested by ExtraEnergy on page 118.
ExtraEnergy.org 53
Advice – product groups
Comfort · City Comfort
The City Comfort Pedelec is the ideal vehicle for getting around town comfortably. Whether you are on your way to work, school, university, shopping, a night out on the town, or shopping in cities and suburbs – this e-vehicle will bring you there in style. Without traffic jams and having to search for parking. The comfortable saddle and fittings, self-explanatory operation and good suspension guarantee
Comfort · Classic
If you are into tradition, high quality and relaxed cycling, the Classic Pedelec is your bike. With its upright, comfortable sitting posture, you can really savor your laid-back cruises. Optically, it reminds strongly of the traditional bicycle. The Classic Pedelec is kitted out with robust, high-quality components, which leave a single
impression: this bike was made to last. Typical, is the enclosed chain case, protecting the chain. Fenders, good lights, a stable baggage carrier and bike stand belong to the basic package. The quality demands of clients are high – and so is the purchase price. It runs easily, offers consistent, strong support and has a long range. Cruising over dikes, on country roads and in the city with a Classic Pedelec could become a way of life sooner than you might think. All Classic Pedelecs in the test are listed on page 138.
Comfort · Rehabilitation
The Rehabilition (Reha) Pedelec is a mode of transport and training device specially developed for the rehabilitation field. It should never let you down - not even when you are climbing the steepest hill. A Reha Pedelec is very reliable and easy to operate. The vehicle has a very low crossbar. Special models are built to allow you to exercise
the rider a lot of cycling fun. The basic package includes a reliable motor, removable battery, fenders, traffic-secure lights, bike stand and baggage carrier. The bike looks attractive and satisfies the design expectations of the modern city dweller. When the day in the office starts without sweaty clothes and lots of zest, the City Comfort Pedelec has already achieved a lot. At the end of the working day, you can head straight for the nearest café, because commuting to and from work by e-vehicle makes the fitness center redundant. You will find an overview of the City Comfort Pedelecs tested by ExtraEnergy on page 124.
specifically those limbs you can still move, or have to train. Included in the definition of a Reha Pedelec is, for instance, a tri-cycle with back-steering, for people who can’t move their arms. Tri-cycles with motors controlled by hand, rather than the legs, also fall in this category. Irrespective of how the pedelec is fitted out, this vehicle will go a long way towards giving you your mobility back. Unfortunately, to date no manufacturer has submitted a Rehabilitation Pedelec for testing.
Leisure · Tour
You just love bike tours and to be out and about. You need the Tour Pedelec built for long trips, the tourism industry and leisure times. These e-vehicles conquer long distances easily and quickly. The Tour Pedelec reveals its strength on the hill: it runs easily, the sitting position is comfortable and so are the fittings, which may include full suspension. Pedelecs of this group are technically tops, with very 54 ExtraEnergy.org
good lights, precise battery capacity displays and batteries capable of ranges of (at least) 40 kilometers. Thanks to pre-fitted devices and a minimum loading capacity of 110 kg, you can load all the luggage bags, water bottles, replacement battery and GPS navigation system your heart desires on your Tour Pedelec. An optional extra in this category: a cover to protect you against rain, wind and weather. Saddle up your e-vehicle and cycle out into the big, wide world. You will find an overview of all Tour Pedelecs tested by ExtraEnergy on page 142.
Advice – product groups
Leisure · Sport
One thing you know: sport and electric vehicles are not mutually exclusive. In fact, an electric vehicle adds fun to sport. Young people, sporty types and trendsetters have discovered a new leisure
time and training device in the form of the Sport Pedelec (also to be used for everyday trips). Important to them, are powerful, zippy rides over all kinds of terrain. Strong motors, combined with individual and dynamic designs, equal image, fun and fitness. You certainly already have the clothes in your cupboard for this bike. Get them out. Then get on the pedelec and go! You will find all Sport Pedelecs tested by ExtraEnergy on page 150.
Leisure · Wellness www
300m
Do you follow the trend of combining leisure time, fitness training and having fun in fresh air and wide open spaces? You should be riding a Wellness Pedelec. It suits e-vehicle enthusiasts of all ages, who like to spend time in nature, while doing something good for their health and wellness in a gentle way. Overall solid support (also
on the hill and when you start out), agile handling, a low-noise motor and appealing design guarantees lots of riding fun. A long range is not so important to you, and the price is also not decisive. Casual outdoor clothes fit to the image of your pedelec for that all-round, on-top-of-the-world feeling. Find an overview of all Wellness Pedelecs tested by ExtraEnergy on page 156.
Transport · Family
You want to be mobile with your family in an environment-friendly way. The Family Pedelec is what you need for family excursions and when you have to “schlepp” the whole kit and caboodle around town. As a vehicle used every day by you and your child, it has to be especially secure and reliable. A strong motor is a necessity. After all, it has to accommodate the extra weight of a second (small) person, transport accessories, such as a child seat, trailer and possible other luggage. So, it should have a good peak load support
(s-factor: hill) of at least 1. It should be able to handle a load capacity of at least 115 kg. With a minimum range of 30 km, you will never run out of motor support - even with frequent stopping and starting in the city, or on short trips. A reliable battery display is absolutely indispensible. A comfortable seat, suspension, fittings for safe cycling in the city traffic, fenders and a simple-to-use user interface makes your life easy. This pedelec delivers you and your child to your destination quickly and safely. You will find an overview of the Family Pedelecs tested by ExtraEnergy on page 170.
Transport · Utility a fully loaded vehicle. The strong motor makes this vehicle faster and safer than the traditional transport bicycle and rickshaw. As an experienced Utility Pedelec rider, you value the low maintenance required, not to mention the good price-performance ratio offered by this vehicle. No hill is too steep for the transporter of today! You might have a transport business, or work as a transporter. The Utility Pedelec is a multi-functional vehicle for transporting loads (such as mail, pizzas, cases of drinks) and passengers. The minimum load capacity of the Utility Pedelec is 135 kg, and it needs special, strengthened components for stopping and parking. Utility Pedelecs are very strong – even steep inclines are easily conquered with
You will find all the Utility Pedelecs tested by ExtraEnergy on page 174.
ExtraEnergy.org 55
test – introduction
ExtraEnergy Test in Numbers and Images 7 drivers, 10 test days, 25 cycles, 3,000 kilometers traveled, 3 GB raw data collected The Spring 2010 Test went off without a hitch – a small sensation in itself. Twenty-five new LEVs had been submitted for testing – 18 pedelecs, 5 fast (s-)pedelecs and two e-bikes. In the previous test (autumn 2009) there were only three s-pedelecs. In total 47 vehicles participated, including the 22 re-tested vehicles. The Spring 2010 test field was very diverse. Not only were there different types of LEVs, but also unusual designs, racing machines, cargo bikes and prototypes – all participating to check out the competition and see where the strengths and weaknesses lie. The Spring Test kicked off with the ergonomic test. For this test, 22 of 25 cycles (three were delivered too late) were brought to an old gymnasium in Dresden, where they were tested by the ExtraEnergy test team and without the benefit of operating manuals. The ergonomic test 56 ExtraEnergy.org
examines a product’s suitability for daily use and its intuitive usability. Around 70 volunteers passed through individual stations, carrying vehicles up steps, removing and replacing chargers, test-riding and discussing the 22 bikes. The cold and wet weather didn’t deter the citizens of Dresden to rock up in great numbers to put the vehicles through their paces. At the same time, Dresden mayor Hilpert handed trophies to representatives of the seven winners of the 2009/10 ExtraEnergy test. A week later the riding test began at the ExtraEnergy test center in Tanna, Thuringia. Here 7 volunteer test cyclists (two women and five men) cycled every bike in the test around the standard test track five times in just 10 days. Despite 21 route signs along the track, wrong turns were taken four times. Luckily, no big accidents were recorded!
test – introduction
The test riders came to Tanna from Germany, Ibiza, Sweden and Scotland, with ages ranging between 27 and 67. The values would be measured and saved during these test rides. Each test rider cycled each test cycle once around the tour sub-section of the track; recorded the values measured and, if all instruments had functioned properly, got the green light from the test team to complete his ride around the track. On the track, the test rider noted sounds, and collected impressions of the road handling and general riding experience. Each rider had to take 5 vehicles around the track every day. These five rounds were later extensively evaluated. Values, such as range and support, were calculated from the collected data; these values were compared with those of other vehicles in the test and only then was it clear how long the batteries lasted, what the average speeds were and how well the motors supported the riders. Impressive speeds were measured this time around. The s-pedelecs (vehicles offering motor support beyond 25 km/h) clocked an average speed of 23.6 km/h uphill. That was more than twice as fast as the conventional, reference bike (without motor), which clocked 11.1 km/h. The statistic for the hill was the same for normal pedelecs, proving (yet again) that e-vehicles leave all other bicycles far behind. The pedelecs averaged a speed of 19.4 km/h. The speed of the test field didn’t weigh on the range – at least not on the tour sub-section. The longest range was measured at 83.6 km. The average range was measured at 50 km, with the motors set at full support. In the city the range halved. The repeated stop-start activity (there were 14 pre-defined stops) made life difficult for the batteries, as most energy is used at the take-off. Another word for this is peak-load support. Here LEV manufacturers still have some work to do. ExtraEnergy will measure and publish the peak-load stats separately in the next test.
ExtraEnergy.org 57
test – introduction
The diversity of the test field was reflected in the vehicle types, in the design and in the end performances. The motor performances ranged between 180 and 1,200 watts, while the motors themselves were evenly distributed. There were 11 middle, 9 front and 8 rear wheel motors from different manufacturers. As before, the proven motor systems, such as Panasonic, TranzX and BionX, dominated. Independent developers, or lesser-known manufacturers, who go for their very own designs and performances, are on the increase. The dominant battery technology was, as before, Lithium-ion. There was only 1 lead-acid battery in the test, which was also the cheapest at 79 €. The most expensive battery was priced at 990 €.
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test – introduction
In the previous test the lightest vehicle was weighed at just over 18 kg. This time around the lightest was weighed at 17.4 kg, including battery. At the same time, the heaviest bike was measured at 58.5 kg, which was significantly more than in the autumn 2009 test (31.4 kg). However, it was a Utility Pedelec, built to carry a 200 kg load. This was also a new record for vehicles tested by ExtraEnergy. The test team was satisfied with the technology on the test bikes. ExtraEnergy’s measuring technology is still unique in the world and hardly influenced the road performances of the tested vehicles. In some cases it was difficult to mount the equipment to bikes. Then creativity was called for. Over the 10 days the test team used 100 meter duct tape, 1 roll brazing solder and 300 cable straps! — Nora Manthey
ExtraEnergy.org 59
test – qfd method
How to Measure Wishes The QFD Method in the ExtraEnergy Test ExtraEnergy started using the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) difficult-to-measure wishes for pedelecs and e-bikes objectivemethod for evaluating e-vehicles at the end of 2009. The QFD ly measurable. The results are then summarized in the c-factor, method matches a list of customer wishes to values measured where “c” stands for “client-satisfaction”. by ExtraEnergy in its test. This makes subjective and supposedly At first glance the wishes (or demands) customers have for pedelecs seem varied and subjective. But, ExtraEnergy managed to reduce the customer wishes down to fourteen, thanks to its years of experience, surveys and visionary thinking. The 27 values measured in the ExtraEnergy test were then matched to the 14 wishes, thereby uniting (or merging) subjective values with objective measurements. For example, the wish for better support was matched with the s-factor calculated in the test from the measured values. ExtraEnergy introduced the s-factor in 1995 and has since established the indicator in numerous tests as a strong guideline. In the latest test the three s-factors were calculated for each vehicles – one for the tour sub-section of the test track, 60 ExtraEnergy.org
another for the hill section and a third for the city section. The s-factor tour was matched to the customer wish for support, as it best represents the high support required by customers. Support on the hill is only experienced by cyclists in special, difficult conditions. Therefore, the s-factor hill cannot substitute for general support – only for the wish to have top-load support. If a pedelec supports strongly on a hill, it also supports well when accelerating, with cargo, or when taking off. These are all situations demanding top-load support. Some wishes are also matched to several measured values. The 3 portability tests in the ergonomic test together provide an answer to the wish that the vehicle should be light. The ergonomic test is a user test in which the suitability for everyday use is measured. Apart from
portability tests, there are battery removal and replacement and short cycling tests, to name a few. All the values calculated for vehicles in the test are based on both qualitative and quantitative information gathered in the ergonomic and riding tests. Since the market for electric vehicles develops constantly, pedelecs and e-bikes are becoming more diversified and differentiated, meaning there are more bikes for more target groups. A pedelec cannot satisfy all 14 customer demands fully, ie. 100%. Instead, it satisfies some demands better than others, and is so better for some uses than others. That doesn’t mean it is worse than other pedelecs, but only that it is better (or maybe even best) suited for a particular use.
test – qfd method support factor Tour reliability
support factor city
time of batterylife
support factor hill
servicedelivery
range tour
price battery
high support
range hill
high peak load support high range
average speed tour
design and looks
high gradient rise fast moving
average speed city
price vehicle
smooth-running characteristics easy transportable driving mode switch
driving behavior without motor
high bicycle similarity less noises
power loss
assign the correct charger
easy handling low purchasing costs high optical impression
portability
battery insertion
low maintenance high reliability
lift above loading edge
ease of use
ergonomic adjustment
fixing on luggage carrier
In this way the 14 needs were prioritized within each of the 11 product groups. This was done by comparing pairs of wishes. One wish was compared to one other wish – and then the next one, and the next. Until the particular wish was compared to 13 others – one after the other. Every comparison produced one of three possible answers, namely more important (2), equally important (1) or unimportant (0). The points awarded (2/1/0) were then entered into a matrix and the rows summarized to produce an importance ranking of wishes for each product group.
family-pedelec 2
vehicle weight
battery removal driving behavior with motor volume of engine
The different uses were distilled into 11 product groups by the test team. The categories were created from exclusion criteria (eg. minimum levels for support, elaborateness of fittings, such as the display). In addition, all groups contain the same 14 customer wishes, but with different weights for the wishes, reflecting how important a specific feature is for a specific user group. For example, sporty cyclists emphasize speed more than a family man, who needs a very reliable pedelec to bring him and his child home safely. So, the Sport Pedelec has a heavier weighting for the wish for speed, than the Family Pedelec, which weighs peak-load support and reliability heavier.
family-pedeöec 1
stability if parked quality of bicycle components
demands (WHAT) and the actual product characteristics (HOW), as calculated from the test data. A strong correlation is given 9 points (a performance of 100%), no correlation gets zero points and a negative correlation -9. For example, the vehicle with the best s-factor tour receives 9 points and all others bikes are measured against that bike. Thanks to the logarithmic transfer, the differences between the e-vehicles become clearer. It also becomes possible to allocate a number to the correlation between test bike and customer demand, even though the values were previously given in kilometers per hour, school grades, or similar. The standardized numbers are then multiplied with the weights of a particular product group. This is done for every product group. Should several values match with a particular wish, the importance points are divided between them. For instance, if the wish for higher support in the group Family Pedelec carries a value of 7, and assigned as the representative value for s-factor tour and s-factor city, the values are calculated in this example by multiplying with 1.4 and 5.6. In this example the Family Pedelec is primarily to be used in city environments.
By adding all points of a specific vehicle (that A relations matrix is at the core of the QFD is to say, how it fulfills individual wishes) method. It shows all the relationships and and doing that for all vehicles in the product performance levels between wishes, or group, a product group winner is determined,
and the result expressed in a c-factor. This c‑factor (client satisfaction factor) runs from 1 to 10, with 10 going to the pedelec in a particular group which satisfies consumer wishes best. All other vehicles in this group are then measured against the winner and the test seals allocated accordingly. A c-factor of 8 to 10 receives a “Very Good” seal, while 5 to 7 receives a “Good” seal. — Frieder Herb and Nora Manthey
Product groups d Easy Pedelec/E-bike d Business Pedelec/E-bike d Mixed Mobility Pedelec/E-bike d City Comfort Pedelec/E-bike d Classic Pedelec/E-bike d Rehabilitation Pedelec/E-bike d Tour Pedelec/E-bike d Sport Pedelec/E-bike d Wellness Pedelec/E-bike d Family Pedelec/E-bike d Utility Pedelec/E-bike
ExtraEnergy.org 61
test – Test riders
Fair weather Test riders The test riders of the first test in 2010 could not have hoped for better conditions! The test was completed in 12 days (instead of the planned 14 days), thanks to the experienced test team, reliable testing technology – and the weather. One test rider even completed his program in the record time of 7 days. His job and family didn’t allow him to stay longer. Some of the vehicles were just as snappy!
towns in (mostly) bright sunshine. Just as different as the vehicles were, were the test riders. Their ages ranged from 28 to 67 and weights from 65 kg to 78 kg. Only the weather refused to be all over the place. With luck. Over the period it rained on one day only. The rest of the time the sun shone and helped to keep the motivation levels up. Stints of good weather such as this one are only experienced very rarely in Tanna, at 550 meter above sea The riders quickly got accustomed to the many level, in April. different types, speeds and motors and completed their rounds on the test track, without We thank our test riders from the bottom outward signs of tiredness. After two guid- of our hearts for their spirited effort. Withed rounds, most also knew the track by heart. out you guys, the test would not have been The task: 25 vehicles had to be tested on for- possible! est tracks, tar roads, gravel roads and through 62 ExtraEnergy.org
Rider Kristina Nilsson Home Munich Age at time of test 66 Years Hight in cm 165 Weight in kg 65 Kilometers cycled in 2009 1.000 Favorite im test Flyer Faltrad motivation I would like to buy a pedelec. The test helped me to see what is on the market.
test – test Riders
Rider Illona Wünsche Home Tanna Age at time of test 47 Years Hight in cm 169 Weight in kg 65 Kilometers cycled in 2009 5.000 Favorite im test Diamant Zouma Supreme
Rider Andrés Moreno Home Cologne Age at time of test 44 Years Hight in cm 181 Weight in kg 87 Kilometers cycled in 2009 4.000 Favorite im test Flyer X-Serie
Rider Jürgen Plakity Home Dresden Age at time of test 44 Years Hight in cm 180 Weight in kg 85 Kilometers cycled in 2009 2.000 Favorite im test Giant Twist RS0
motivation The bikes, the technology and the experience of being part of the test.
motivation The test is pure fun!
motivation E-transport is the future. I want to be part of that development.
Rider Michael Brassler Home Unterlenningen Age at time of test 48 Years Hight in cm 187 Weight in kg 70 Kilometers cycled in 2009 7.000 Favorite im test 3-Element Espire
Rider Klaus Dellian Home Forchheim Age at time of test 67 Years Hight in cm 180 Weight in kg 80 Kilometers cycled in 2009 1.500 Favorite im test Vitalbike Sport Diamant
Rider Julien McHardy Home London Age at time of test 28 Years Hight in cm 190 Weight in kg 78 Kilometers cycled in 2009 3.500 Favorite im test KTM eRace
motivation I wanted to check out the market, test new developments and make new contacts.
motivation I joined the test, because I’m interested in new motor technologies.
motivation My doctoral studies ignited my interest in pedelecs and specifically the impact of this new technology on the community and vice versa. ExtraEnergy.org 63
Test – MEASURING TECHNOLOGY
ExtraEnergy’s measuring technology More accurate than a test bench What is more accurate? A test bench simulating a test ride and repeating it many times under the same conditions, or test-rides undertaken in continuously changing outdoor conditions by different test riders? The answer depends on what one wants to measure and how. The disadvantage of test-rides lies in the fact that they cannot be replicated exactly, since so many factors influence the result, such as the human riding behavior and changing environmental conditions. The disadvantage of tests on a test bench is the fact that they are removed from reality, such as the human influence factors and the environmental conditions. Test bench measuring is called for when specific components have to be compared with other components stripped of human influences. For instance, test bench tests are valuable when developing components, but not when determining the range or support factor of a bike. The ExtraEnergy test attempts to combine both worlds. In other words, it is an attempt to measure values as accurately as is possible with a field test. Our tests are not pure riding tests, or tests in which a rider delivers vague subjective appraisals and self-measured times. Our data are as accurate and our measurements as incorruptible as possible – with the human factor involved. 64 ExtraEnergy.org
Since early 2009 ExtraEnergy has the capacity to measure up to 30 bikes at the same time. The measuring technology used in the test is unique in the world and needed an investment of € 180,000, which will repay itself over time. After all, only with these instruments can reliable, transparent and meaningful data be determined. The technology was developed in cooperation with O-Tec near Mannheim and Calantec in Berlin. In our tests, a minimum of 5 test riders weighing roughly 80 kg each (the average weight of the German cyclist) cycles each test vehicle once around the official test track with medium power. In other words, without exhausting himself, but also without having the motor simply push him forward. Every one of the five test riders cycles every bike over three sub-sections on the fixed track, each with its own demands (a tour sub-section, hill sub-section and city sub-section). The self-developed testing technology, mounted on the bikes, does not influence the riding performance of the tested bikes. This enables us to record riding data under real conditions in an unbiased way. The data collected are then averaged out for every test rider and for every test track sub-section.
test – MEASURING TECHNOLOGY Data box The heart of the measuring technology is located in a handlebar bag – the data box (photo 1). Here all the values are recorded as measured by the different sensors on the bike. The energy consumption of the battery, pedal frequency and contributed pedal power, as well as the speed and – with the GPS – the trip direction, are all recorded and saved. The data box stores all data (in total about 12 MB per test hour) on an internal memory and on a
the pedal power is measured (photo 2). With the help of built-in magnets (hall sensors) the contributed pedal power is measured via the resulting inflexion in the body of the measuring pedals. In the flat casing of the measuring pedals, which lies parallel to the crank handle, the raw data is prepared and transmitted without cable to the data box. Compared to other performance measuring technology, the pedals used by ExtraEnergy have the advantage that they can be fitted and removed
Clients and the industry have been relying on the data collected in these pedelec and e-bike tests for almost two decades. In recent years the evaluation became more complex, but even more accurate. In the process, a comprehensive picture is built of the performance of a pedelec. — Andreas Törpsch
1 USB stick. Upon completion of the test ride, easily. The quick and uncomplicated exchange the USB stick is removed and the data stored of power measuring pedals is indispensable on a PC. The evaluation is done with specially for the frictionless completion of a test. developed software (photo 3). The pedal frequency and speed of the test ride are measured by one magnet sensor attached GPS For accurate trip data recording (where the to the bottom bracket and one on the front rider cycles with the bike), a GPS receiver is fork, and transmitted to the data box by cable. attached to the data box. In this way the entire trip can be documented and reconstructed. Then the measured values can be filtered up to the exact meter – for every sub-section of the track.
2
Battery sensor To measure the withdrawal of energy (electric current and voltage) from the battery, a sensor is fitted in the original battery of every test bike. It is fitted either on the inside of the casing, or on the outside. In the latter situation, it is connected by plug. The sensor transmits the current and voltage data to the measuring box.
Measuring pedals If the data box is the heart of the measuring technology, then the measuring pedals are the pacemakers. With special measuring pedals
3 ExtraEnergy.org 65
test – Test data
The ABC of Pedelec Appraisals What is measured? It has become commonplace to refer to the contribution of the e-vehicle motor as the support factor, or s-factor. Often it is
Support factor
decisive in the purchase decision. But, what is the “s” about?
The s-factor quoted in the results of the ExtraEnergy tests, does not refer to the pure electrical support, but to the real, or mechanical power. In other words, the performance which, in fact, helps the rider forward. For that purpose, the pedal power and performance is determined with the help of power measuring pedals fitted to every tested pedelec Many bike manufacturers refer to the s-factor as the power with which - and also to a reference bike. the motor pushes the rider forward. Such a description alludes almost entirely to the pure electric performance of the motor. Support calcu- All test pedelecs are compared against the reference bike (a standard lated in this way, is described mostly in percentage form. Used in this Trekking bike, look at page 70). The pedal performance delivered by way, fantastic values, such as 300% support, are sometimes calculated. the reference bike is compared to that of the pedelecs in the test at the average speed. The pedal power delivered by each pedelec in the Using the concept in this way deceives for the following reason: al- test below the power delivered by the reference bike, is taken to be though technological progress has improved the battery, control and the contribution of the motor. This additional support is known as the motor markedly, the additional battery and motor weight and control s-factor. technology also “wastes” a small percentage of the motor performance (about 10%). To calculate the real support (mechanical performance), the “lost performance” has to be included in the calculation.
The s-factor tells you how much power the pedelec motor adds to the pedal performance of the rider. There are different definitions for and applications of this concept.
66 ExtraEnergy.org
300
test – Test data
y = 0.2792x 2 + 2.2841x + 0.0465 R² = 0.9999 2 y = 0.2792x + 2.2841x + 0.0465 R² = 0.9999
300 250 250 200 200
150this information a curve is plodded from which one can deduct With 150 functions by calculating the relevant performance level for every speed 100 100On a flat track section, the functions derived from performance level. 50 and 50 speed follows a quadratic (square) course. The higher the speed, 0 the higher the air resistance, making15 it ever more difficult to increase 5 10 20 25 0 the cycling speed. On10the hill the air 15resistance plays20a subordinate25role. 5 On hills the influencing factors slope, gravity resistance and road resistance play the decisive role to give the chart its linear course.
gem gem
U U
300
300 250
flat
pedal power [km/h]
250 200 200 150 150 100 100 50 50 0 0
5
10
15
5
10
15
y = 0.2792x 2 + 2.2841x + 0.0465 R² = 0.9999 y = 0.2792x 2 + 2.2841x + 0.0465 R² 20= 0.9999 20
25 25
speed [km/h] 300 300
y = 0.2792x Hill
The modus operandi of comparing with a single reference bike has the disadvantage that the s-factor is always linked to the „smooth-running characteristics“ of the reference bike. To calculate the exact, pure mechanical performance of every pedelec, one needs to take the comparison rides with a bike identical to the pedelec being tested (only without the battery, control and motor).
pedal power [km/h]
300 250 250
R² = 0.9999
2
+ 2.2841x + 0.0465
250 200 200 200 150 150
g
150 100 100 100 50 50 50 00 55 0 5
1010 10
1515
speed15[km/h]
20 20
y = 14.298x R² 0.9997 y ==14.298x R² = 0.9997 25 25
20
25 However, the ExtraEnergy Test is about also being able to compare the individual pedelecs with each other. To compare all test pedelecs with Unterstützungsfaktor = 1,5 Unterstützungsfaktor = 1,5now gemessene Ø-Tretleistung = Ø-mech. Leistungone = can curves and determined functions, one and the same reference bike has the advantage that the „smooth- From 300the generated gemessene Ø-Tretleistung = Ø-mech. Leistung = running characteristics“ of the pedelec in relation to that of the com- calculate - by using the average speed on the pedelec – the input the 250 parison bike is included in the s-factor, which makes the real support rider would have had to make on the reference bike at the same speed. 200 even more comparable for the bikes in the test. For instance, on the pedelec the rider pedals 80 W to get to a speed of 150 Finally, the measuring technology of the pedelec is an important influ- 23 km/h on the flat. On the reference bike he would have had to deliver 100 to get to the same speed. Conversely, substantially less power is ence on the actual support. In the sense that what finally hits the road 200 W as mechanical performance, depends to a large extent on the make of needed 50 on the pedelec, than the power contributed by the motor. This y = 0.2792x + 2.2841x + 0.0465 R² = 0.9999 output is called the mechanical motor output. the pedelec. 2
0
300 300 250 250
pedal power [km/h]
The components of the pedelec determine how smooth it runs and so also the actual additional power pushing the rider forward. On top of that, there is yet another factor influencing the actual support to take into account, namely the cycling behavior of the rider. Apart from his size and weight, how he switches gears, the pedal frequency and, of course, his pedal performance all play a role. The s-factor is, therefore, determined by comparing the pedal performance of the rider on the reference bike with that on the electric bike which is tested. To do that, we compare the measured performance values (in watt) at a specific speed. To be able to compare pedal performances at the same speed, a speed/ performance curve is first drawn for the reference bike. To do that, the pedal power of every test rider is measured on three trips – a trip at low, medium and high speed. This is done over the complete test track, including the tour, hill and town sub-sections.
5
10
15
20
25
y = 0.2792x 2 + 2.2841x + 0.0465 R² = 0.9999
200 200 150 150
ge
100 100 50 50 00 55
U
y = 14.298x R² = 0.9997 10 10
1515
20 20
25 25
speed [km/h] Unterstützungsfaktor = 1,5 gemessene Ø-Tretleistung = 300 250 200
Ø-mech. Leistung = ExtraEnergy.org 67
test – Test data
S-factor continued The difference between the pedal input of the reference bike and that of the tested pedelec is the power ultimately contributed by the motor and is expressed in the s-factor. In the example above, the motor generates an additional support of 120 W. In our example the s-factor amounts to 1.5, since the motor supported the pedal input (80 W) with a strength of 1.5 times (120 W). Formula for calculating the s-factor on the tour section: (0,2792 × vpedelec2 + 2,2841 × vpedelec + 0,0456) UTour = – 1 Ppedelec
UTour d support factor tour Vpedelec d average speed pedelec tour Ppedelec d pedal performance of test rider pedelec tour
Efficiency triangle
The terrain also has a considerable influence on range. Therefore, a range is quoted in this publication for the different test track sub-sections, namely tour, hill and city. The different terrain profiles and demands made on the bikes, such as inclines and stop-start riding, have a visible effect on the calculated ranges for the different sections. The ranges published here are calculated ranges and can be taken as the minimum ranges, attainable with the control panel set on maximum support. For the calculation, it is necessary to measure the consumption of electric energy EV (Wh/km) for every track sub-section with the help of a power sensor. The battery energy AE (Wh) of the battery is the result of battery capacity AK (Ah) and the battery voltage AS (V) and is based on the specifications supplied by the manufacturer. It is divided by the determined consumption. In addition, the battery energy AE (Wh) is multiplied by an uncertainty factor of 0.8, since the indicated energy cannot be removed completely (the motor cuts out before it gets to a complete discharge). Moreover, there are fluctuations in the production of the capacity. ExtraEnergy selected the value of 0.8 out of experience.
By comparing the pedelecs in the test against one and the same referRange [km] = (AE [Wh] × 0,8) ÷ AV [Wh/km] ence bike, completely new ways of appraising open up, since perfor- mance and the smooth-running characteristics of the pedelecs flow into the calculation of the mechanical motor performance. Still, the electric output produced by the motor cannot be ignored entirely. Average speed The average speed is the speed cycled with a specific test bike on a speTo determine the range, ExtraEnergy measures how much energy the cific track section. The published value is, as all determined values, the motor uses. From that value, the electrical output delivered by the median of the results obtained by the five test riders. In practice, it almotor can be inferred. Together with the calculated mechanical per- ways turns out that each pedelec has a typical speed, despite the difformance, and the pedal input of the rider, this value is vital for the ferences between the riders. For a specific control setting, motor type, achieved average speed. Together, the electrical output delivered and sensor type and software setting our tests yielded a speed for every the calculated mechanical performance reflect the overall effectiveness track section. of the pedelec. This is represented by the efficiency triangle. The influence of the pedal power on the average speed depends, among The red/yellow triangle shows how much energy the motor delivers in others, on the software setting regulating the activation of the mototal. But, the yellow triangle represents the energy which finally hits tor. But the running characteristics of the pedelec also play a role. The the road. The red area shows how much energy is lost by, for instance, differences manifest themselves in the efficiency triangle of every carrying the motor along on the bike. The smaller the red area, the bet- pedelec. ter the efficiency, or vice versa: the bigger the red area, the lower is the efficiency of the pedelec. Smooth-running characteristics and light- Furthermore, it must be noted that speeds above 25 km/h – that is, weight components are now also part of the equation and show how above the maximum support – were measured on the tour section. Peimportant these factors are – also for an electric bike. delecs with this speed potential could also be cycled at those speeds by our test riders. After all, an important reason for conducting our test outdoors, is to identify and reproduce exactly such riding conditions. Range Range is a key statistic for a pedelec, although range should not be seen as an absolute. Rather, the demands made on the specific vehicle — Harry F. Neumann, Nora Manthey and Andreas Törpsch should be taken into account, because not every field of application demands a range of 70 km. For instance, a folding bike, used in connection with public transport, should be easy to carry. In other words, it should be light. Under normal circumstances it needs no long range, since it is normally only used for short trips, such as to the station and back, and should be easy to carry to a power plug. On the other hand, with a tour bike the range is a meaningful factor, because the fun is over when the battery falls out in the middle of a trip. 68 ExtraEnergy.org
test – Test track
Legend
Tour sub-section 5.2 km
Hill sub-section 0.9 km
City sub-section 1.3 km
Transfer sub-section 7.1 km
The test track Several test tracks have featured in the history of ExtraEnergy tests (1993–98 Lauchheim, 1999 Modena, 2000–08 Kirchheim Teck and Tanna) before the day a standard, fixed test track was laid out in Tanna in 2009. Now the track is as diversified as the test team’s demands for the test. The track consists of three sub-sections, namely a tour, hill and city sub-section. The sub-sections represent different riding conditions and situations. On the different sub-sections the support factors and range are measured under different conditions. On the tour sub-section endurance is central, on the hills the peak load support is central and on the city sub-section stop-and-go riding is central. From the data collected in the test, the CO2 emissions for each of the tour, hill and town sub-sections were calculated. For example, the efficiency of the system on the tour subsection was also calculated.
Three major sub-sections dictate the test data: City the tour sub-section, the data measured on On the city section typical city riding behavior the hill sub-section and the trips in the town. is emulated. This is characterized by stop-start riding. In other words, the rider switched between slow cycling, braking and taking off Tour The first part of the test track reminds of a typ- again. There are altogether 14 stops on this ical tour lap, with changing terrain conditions. sub-section, where the taking-off behavior of Moderate inclines and a variety of surfaces, the vehicle was tested. The values determined such as asphalt country roads, gravel roads are included in the test report under Measand forest tracks place moderate demands on ured values and Riding performance – City. pedelec and rider. To simulate circumstances on a tour as realistically as possible, the test In the next test (in 2011) more data will be calriders completed this loop with medium per- culated and published for track sub-sections. formance, meaning they did not exert them- Among them will be measurements in recovselves, but also did not allow the motor to ery mode, take-off behavior on hills and maximum speed beyond the motor cut-out point. simply pull them along.
Hill
— Andreas Törpsch
On this section the values of, for example, the range and support factor on the hill are determined. The hill section stretches over almost a full kilometer with a moderate average gradient of 5%. ExtraEnergy.org 69
test – REFERENCE BIKE
Kalkhoff · Agattu
Bike performance data Performance on tour Average speed 17,6 km/h Rider contribution 134,7 W Performance on hill Average speed 10,6 km/h Rider contribution 162,8 W Performance on city Average speed 10,7 km/h Rider contribution 113,0 W
The reference bike is a normal bicycle, meaning it has no motor and battery. This model was chosen, because its geometry and components are similar to those of many pedelecs. For instance, it has a Shimano Nexus gearshift currently used by many pedelec manufacturers. Furthermore, it has 28" wheels and Continental City tires of mid-width. It weighs 17.9 kg, which is not exactly light, but also not an exceptionally
heavy model in its class. The subjective appraisal of the reference bike’s operating and running characteristics by the test riders was very positive. And even though some struggled a bit, all test riders conquered the steepest sections on the test track (15% gradient) with the reference bike without pushing.
Bike performance data Approved overall weight 120 kg Frame 28" aluminium Sizes Trapez: 28" 45, 50, 55 cm Fork RST Verso Adj Gearshift Shimano Nexus 8-gear hub gear shift, rotary switch lever Brakes f/b Conzept SL 4 finger v-brake Wheels Rodi Freeway alu hollow rim f Shimano DH-3N20 hub dynamo, Nexus grain tires Continental CityRide 42-622, reflexion stripes, flat protected Lights f B&M Lumotec Fly Halogen b Basta X-Ray Steady extras height-adj. side kickstand, ergon. hand grips, alu luggage carrier, spring saddle Post Moderne, angle-adj. front stem Weight Vehicle price Vehicle
17,9 kg 499 €
Derby Cycle Werke GmbH Siemensstrasse 1–3 · 49661 Cloppenburg 70 ExtraEnergy.org
Telephone 044 71 96 60 Fax 047 71 96 64 48 45
Mail info@kalkhoff-bikes.de Web www.kalkhoff-bikes.de
test – Special Features
A handful of Special Features When is a Feature a Pro and when a Con The Pros and Cons section was called Plus and Negative Points in the first issue of our magazine. As such, it caused some unhappiness. Manufacturers felt the reporting in this section was biased, since we lifted a particular feature out as a “negative” in one bike report, but not in another (although the second bike had the same feature). We admit, the Plus and Negative Points section was conceived without a clear, systematic approach behind it. We created
Criteria for range »high« if range tour ≥ 50 km and / or range city ≥ 30 km »low« if range tour ≤ 30 km Criteria for mentioning the support »strong« if U-Faktor tour, city and / or hill ≥ 1.2 Criteria for mentioning take-off assistance + Positive mention, if available, especially on vehicles only fitted with movement sensors, or on vehicles with delayed support activation. – Negative mention, if absent from bikes only equipped with movement sensors, or vehicles with delayed support activation.
such a system for the second issue and publish it below. It fixes lower and upper borders and lists characteristics which may be of advantage or disadvantage (+ or -) and sometimes even both. Where both signs appear (+/-), it means the characteristic is a “matter of taste” and you must decide whether it’s an advantage or negative point.
Criteria for mentioning price »high« if total price > 2,950.00 € »low« if total price < 800.00 € Note: A price mention should not be interpreted as a judgment of the price-performance ratio. It merely conveys that the purchase price is high, or low. Criteria for mentioning battery status display »On handlebar inaccurate« when an accurate reading can be made at the battery, but not on the display unit attached to the handlebar. »inaccurate« if an accurate reading of the status of the battery charge cannot be made – either at the battery, or on the display unit provided for the job.
Criteria for mentioning extra load »high« if payload ≥ 110 kg Criteria for mentioning weight »high« if total weight of vehicle ≥ 27 kg »low« if total weight of vehicle ≤ 22 kg
General note: The stipulation of criteria for mentioning pros and cons of a specific vehicle, were done with all tested bikes as a single group in mind. This may lead to situations where, for instance, a Mixed Mobility Pedelec weighing 21 kg is mentioned as being “light”, although this is really heavy for a Mixed Mobility pedelec. ExtraEnergy.org 71
test – PRODUCT REPORT
Where do I find what in the product reports Group
Bars
At the top of the first product report page you’ll find the product group(s) the particular vehicle belongs to and whether it is a pedelec, fast pedelec (s-pedelec), or e-bike.
The line in the bar indicates where the measured value of the particular pedelec lies in relation to the best and worst bikes in the test. In other words, the two ends represent the minimum and maximum values measured in the test. The “normal” pedelecs have been separated from the “fast” pedelecs and the e-bikes.
Measured values In the top part you see all the values measured and calculated by ExtraEnergy. Seven test riders cycled with each of the bikes at least once over the sub-sections tour, hill and city which together constitute the official test track in Tanna. The measuring technology was fitted to the bike and measured – without influencing the rider - the pedal power, speed, pedal rate and energy consumption of the pedelec. The values range, average speed and support (s-factor) were then calculated as averages from the data collected by all seven riders.
Comfort – City Comfort S-PedeleC
Flyer · X-Serie Street Product grouP City Comfort S-Pedelec C-factor 10
testsiegel
47 fahrzeuge im test
Sport S-Pedelec C-factor 10
t r g-kuomfort sesiegher city
2010
Wellness S-Pedelec C-factor 9
test
juli
Easy S-Pedelec C-factor 6 Business S-Pedelec C-factor 5 conclusion There is nothing missing on this vehicle with its luxury components on all levels. The extra power provided by Panasonic, full suspension, attractive design and a superior riding experience turn every Flyer X-Series rider into a king of the road.
Product groups The colored icon/s indicates to which product group(s) a specific pedelec belongs. A vehicle can fit into several groups, but the report only mentions the groups in which the vehicle performed best. The product groups represent the different uses and the different demands consumers make for the different bikes. Basically, client wishes are the same, but with different priorities. Therefore, the wishes carry different weights in the different groups. Read more on page 53.
C-factor The c-factor is linked to the product groups and stands for “client-satisfaction”. The higher the c-factor (runs from 1 to 10), the better a vehicle satisfies the demands clients have for vehicles in this group. The best vehicle in every product group is awarded a c-factor of 10, and all the others in the group are compared against the frontrunner. For instance, a pedelec with 80% of the points of the winner has a c-factor of 8. More bikes could have the same c-factor, since the numbers 1 – 10 are rounded off from the measured data.
Pros and cons + Strong support on tour sub-section + Long range in city traffic + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly + – Big display with many functions + – Must be insured – High price
The Flyer X-Series is the “blue blood” of pedelecs currently on the market. The X-Flyer is characterized by its wide handlebars with short “horns” on both ends. The X-Flyer’s premium quality equipment and wide handlebar make steering easy and provide a superior all-round riding experience. The Street model tested was fully equipped, with Shimano XT wheels, hydraulic disc brakes and gear system. The Rockshox Recon suspension in front and Ario rear wheel suspension (both SRAM products) complete the top-notch product. The test model was fitted with wide Schwalbe Marathon tires intended for road use, but thanks to the great suspension it was comfortable on all terrains. The 4-hinge rear suspension of the frame and the new wide 390 Wh battery on top of the new 300 W Panasonic motor underline the pedelec’s luxurious character. The 390 Wh battery of the tested X-Flyer provided 130 Wh more power than the 260 Wh batteries normally fitted to Panasonic systems. 132 ExtraEnergy.org
Sizes
Approved total weight
Pros and Cons
The approved total weight is the maximum weight a particular vehicle can handle. It is calculated by adding the weight of the bike, rider, and the luggage. For warranty purposes this statistic should appear in the operating manual of the vehicle.
In this small box the most striking advantages and disadvantages of the tested product are listed.
72 ExtraEnergy.org
The stronger battery is considerably wider, so the crank arms had to be fitted slightly wider. On bikes with normal crank arm distances, the crank would collide with the bigger battery. Since X-Flyer bikes take the conventional, smaller batteries, the 390 Wh battery can, unfortunately, not easily be used on other bicycles equipped with Panasonic motors. The combination of a stronger motor with stronger battery proved to be very successful in the tested X-Series. The acceleration and support provided by the Panasonic motor are unusual and push the enjoyment factor of this established motor up several notches. The quite high price of this pedelec can be overlooked, since ExtraEnergy mainly tests performance – which is more than convincing on this vehicle. The Flyer X-Series Street fits into 5 product groups and won two of them, namely the groups City Comfort and Sport.
Most pedelecs are available in various sizes. The sizes are listed here. The number printed in bold is the size of the tested model.
Weight The overall weight is the weight of the complete vehicle, including pedals and battery. ExtraEnergy weighed every vehicle and battery. The vehicles in the test weighed between 17.4 kg and 58.5 kg, while the batteries weighed between 1.1 kg and 13.6 kg.
Test – PRODUCT REPORT Range
Speed
The range is calculated from the measured energy consumption of the pedelec. How exactly it is done, is declared on page 66. The range is given for each of the three sub-sections tour, hill and city. With tour is meant cycling on different surfaces and over undulating terrain. In the city the rider switches between stopping and starting and the hill range is calculated on a continuous gradient of 5%. All values relate purely to the ride on that subsection and were measured in the highest support mode. On the tour sub-section the range of normal pedelecs varied between 24.2 km and 78.0 km.
The average speed is determined with the speedometer and GPS fitted to the vehicle. One should also remember that cycling at exceptionally high speeds may in some cases reduce the range. In the test the values were measured between 15.6 km/h and 22.2 km/h on the hill sub-section. The s-pedelecs averaged 23.6 km/h on the same sub-section.
Comfort – City Comfort S-PedeleC
Flyer · X-Serie Street
Measured values PErformancE on tour Range 50.5 km 58,8 27.7 km/h 34,9 Average speed Support factor 1.27 2,94 PErformancE on hill 29.0 km 37,5 Range 22.4 km/h 30,4 Average speed 1.10 1,72 Support factor PErformancE on city 36.2 km 51,0 Range 16.8 km/h 17,8 Average speed 0.82 1,25 Support factor
WEight Vehicle Battery
25.8 kg 18,1 3.9 kg 2,4
EfficiEncy trianglE 24,6 Geschwindigkeit
24,8
22,4 km/h
0,67
14,9 18,5 0,84
0
173 W
17,6
190 W 244 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
15,6 0,63
Ergonomic tEst Akku entnehmen Eindeutige Zuordnung des Ladegeräts Akku einsetzen Befestigung auf Heckträger Tragbarkeit (Treppe hoch und runter) Auf Ladekante heben Ergonomische Anpassung Fahrmodus einstellen Fahreigenschaften mit Motor Fahreigenschaften ohne Motor Antriebslautstärke Bedienkomfort Standfestigkeit beim Abstellen Design und Optik
1.2 1.9 1.3 2.8 3.5 2.5 2.0 1.7 1.5 2.8 1.9 1.6 1.5 2.2
37,3 8,6
Bike data aPProvEd ovErall WEight 120 kg motor 300 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor sEnsor tyPE Torque sensor BattEry 390 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable BattEry chargE status indicator Accurate framE 26" Aluminum sizE M 45.5/50/55 cm fork RockShox Recon suspension fork transmission Shimano XT 9-gear chain transmission, Rapidfire BrakEs f/r hydraulic disc brakes Shimano XT WhEEls f/r Shimano XT System wheel set
Biketec AG Schwende 1 · 4950 Huttwill Switzerland
tirEs Schwalbe Marathon Extreme, 50-559 lights f B&M LED Cyo IQ-TEC r B&M LED Toplight Flat, own energy source Extras Multifunctional, illuminated LCD display, 3 support levels, take-off support to 20 km/h, RockShox Ario rear wheel absorber, height-adjustable sidestand, ergon. handle grips, alu luggage carrier, pedals with click system, frame lock PricE vEhiclE 4,690 € PricE rEPlacEmEnt BattEry 795 €
€
tElEPhonE 0041 629 59 55 55 fax 0041 629 59 55 66
E-mail info@flyer.ch WEB www.flyer.ch
S-factor The s-factor is the magnitude which indicates with how much extra power the motor supports the rider. The s-factor is calculated by comparing the pedaled performance on the pedelec with the pedaled performance on a reference bike without a motor. A sfactor of 1 means the cyclist on the reference bike had to contribute double the pedal power at the same speed, or the other way around, namely that the motor doubles the pedal power of the rider on the pedelec. How exactly the s-factor is calculated, is declared on page 66. On the hill section the s-factors of the tested pedelecs were measured between 0.51 and 1.72. The s-pedelecs measured values up to 1.72.
Efficiency triangle The efficiency triangle shows the performance contributed by the motor and by the rider respectively, at the attained average speed on the tour section. The higher the average speed, the more performance was contributed by the rider and/or motor. The red/ yellow triangle shows how much energy the motor used in total (electrical performance). The yellow triangle reflects how much of that actually reached the street (mechanical performance). The red area in the efficiency triangle shows how much energy was lost by, for instance, carrying the motor along. The smaller the red area, the higher the efficiency and vice versa – the bigger the red area, the lower the efficiency of the pedelec. Good easy-running characteristics and light-weight components play a role here and show how important they also are for an electric vehicle.
Ergonomic test Left The battery looks very bulky, but delivers a lot of energy. Unfortunately, the battery is not compatible with other pedelecs with Panasonic motors, due to the battery’s width. Right The X Flyer principle is “only the best of everything”. No-one tried to keep costs down here. Nice that there is a manufacturer like Biketec with the confidence to do this.
ExtraEnergy.org 133
Price Prices are listed for the vehicle and the battery. The price quoted for the battery, is the cost of a replacement battery. The price quoted for the vehicle includes both the vehicle and battery. All prices were supplied by the manufacturers and correct and the time of publication. Price is taken into account in the test, since it’s an important factor to clients (although of differing relevance). The vehicles in the test were priced between 470 € and 7,000 € and the batteries between 79 € and 990 €.
At the ergonomic test about 100 volunteers subject the test bikes to ergonomic user-friendly tests. They exchange batteries intuitively (without the help of operating manuals), find re-chargers, carry bikes and also ride on them for short distances. Finally, they estimate in which product group the bike fits best. The appraisal is made on the school grade method from 1 – 6 points.
Bike data The bicycle data are the key values of the bike and provide information about fittings, weight and price. For that purpose, the pedelecs and batteries were weighed by us. The other data were supplied by the manufacturers and confirmed by our tests. Here you also find the reference addresses.
ExtraEnergy.org 73
city – easy
Easy · uncomplicated cycling
The Easy Pedelec product group had the lowest entry criteria and thus the biggest number of qualifying pedelecs (26 of 47). Of course, this also meant the competition was very tough. This didn’t present a problem, the appraisal system is dynamic and the number of seals not limited, but all the bikes in the group had to be measured against the frontrunner and so the oft-significant differences soon came to light. We were able to award four “Very Good” test seals and 14 “Good” seals. Remember, it doesn’t mean bikes are “no good” when they fail to get a seal. They were simply not as good as the others. Easy Pedelecs are conceived for daily trips from A to B and short excursions in the city. Therefore they are most likely to look like the conventional bicycles and can also be used like them. The low step-thru makes 74 ExtraEnergy.org
getting on and off easy. Design and the solid, but unspectacular fittings are all aimed at easy riding. These vehicles are relatively light and easy-running, the demands on the electronics functional and the price moderate. The more or less hidden electric support of the Easy Pedelec makes itself felt against hills and at the take-off. A range of at least 20 km should be possible.
city – easy
Test winner easy
test seal
47
Kalkhoff · Pro Connect
pedelecs in test
d groeaosy y r nne i e w V tes t
2010 July
It is not easy to win the product group Easy Pedelec. But, the Kalkhoff Pro Connect did it for the second time in a row! In the line-up of vehicles in this group for this test there was not a single one better than the Kalkhoff Pro Connect. The excellent balance it has between handling, fittings and motor is timeless and impressive. Tradition is paired with power. The high semblance to bicycles and all-over very good riding values make this pedelec the ideal vehicle for the daily transport demands of the urban environment. Simply, very good.
All vehicles in this product category ave · Eagle........................................................76 BH Bikes · Emotion Avant...............................78 Diamant · SAPHIR+.........................................80 Gepida · Nedao Cruiser...................................82 Heinzmann · Estelle Tour...............................84 Kalkhoff · Pro Connect....................................86 Kalkhoff · Sahel Pro Disc................................88 Kettler · Layana Hybritec...............................90 Kettler · Obra Hybritec...................................92 Koga-Miyata · tesla Tour................................94
Moover · Comfort CMF....................................96 Prophete · Alurex............................................98 Raleigh · Dover de luxe F.............................. 100 Raleigh · Dover de luxe Premium..................102 Tschibo · Powerbike...................................... 104 Victoria · Malente Sport............................... 106 Victoria · Münsterland................................. 108 Vital Bike · Tour Y........................................ 110 Winora · town e:xp........................................112
daum electronic · ergo bike........................ 126 Diamant · ZOUMA SUPREME+.......................152 Flyer · C9 Premium....................................... 128 Flyer ·Faltrad NS.......................................... 120 Flyer · i:SY Street........................................... 130 Flyer · X-Serie MTB.........................................132 Giant · Twist Express RS0............................. 144 Kalkhoff · Agattu XXL Pedelec C.................. 146 Magna Marque · Styriette.......................... 140 Pacific Cycles · IF Reach City DC.................122 Ultra Motor · A2B Hybrid............................ 136 Vitalbike · individual Sport Diamant........... 148
ExtraEnergy.org 75
CITY – EASY PEDELEC
ave · Eagle
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 7 Tour Pedelec C-factor 7 Wellness Pedelec C-factor 6
TesT seal
47
pedelecs in test
y e as oory d g ego t a c
2010 July
Conclusion The ave Eagle has a futuristic look and its acceleration is something to experience. Because of the relatively high weight, the rider is very dependent on the motor, which is quite powerful, although in need of a little more fine-tuning.
The brand ave, which comes from Oberpframmern near Munich, sent a sleek splash of color into the race with this Eagle. In general, the design was liked by all the participants in the ergonomic test. The comfortable, ergonomically well-shaped handlebar equipped with display bridge fits to and strengthens the futuristic design, which comes at a price of 1,999 €. The chic-looking, but heavy cast rims partly explain why the ave Eagle is relatively heavy – a factor which diminished its appeal.
enabling the rider to operate the display mounted in the middle of the handlebar, and to adjust the support level. The ave Eagle’s “turbo” button, is more of an assistance at take-off, than a “turbo”. The wide Schwalbe Big Apple tires are comfortable on the road. However, you should avoid going through large potholes with the 20" rims. The small wheels also have something to do with the good acceleration values of the ave Eagle. The main reason is, however, the TranzX hub motor, which supplies powerful support in all support modes. Unfortunately, the difference between the support levels is minimal. Still, the rider barely notices the support limit of the motor in the first support mode, since it doesn’t go beyond it. But, when the rider switches to the highest support mode, he finds the motor kicks in and out continuously. And that, although the ave can hardly be cycled without motor support. Clearly, the support is in need of a little adjustment.
The battery is hidden behind the seat stay in this modern frame construction. Where the luggage carrier would normally be located, there is an easy-to-open and lockable flap, which gives access to the 360 Wh battery. The battery can either be removed, or recharged on the vehicle. Two rubber straps on the sides make the only remaining space for luggage (on top of the flap) usable. One cannot fault the fittings of the ave. The Shimano Deore gearshift does what it is supposed to do, and the hydraulic Tektro disc brakes convinced in the test. A nice detail on the lighting system (which is good in every respect) is the dynamo func- Against the hill the motor pulls the rider to the top with unbridled tion of the motor, which comes to the rescue when the battery is flat. power. Downhill the test bike vibrated at speeds over 40 km/h, when Among the other detail are the control keys in the left handle grip, the rider applied the brakes. Thanks to the large 360 Wh battery, the range was very good, especially on the tour sub-section. On the hill and in the city the range was average as measured for all test participants, because of the strong support given by the motor. Thanks to its performance on the road, original design, solid fittings and reasonable price, the ave Eagle concept convinced, despite some teething problems in our test. It earned c-factors of 7 and 6 in three groups (Tour, Easy and Wellness) and received the test seal “Good” for its performance.
Pros and Cons + Strong support on tour sub-section and against the hill + High extra load + Take-off assistance – Slightly delayed activation and de-activation of support – Jerky, unpleasant kick-in and cut-out of motor at upper support limit – Calibration of power sensor recommended before every take-off – Motor noise clearly audible – Heavy – Difficult to ride without motor 76 ExtraEnergy.org
CITY – EASY PEDELEC
ave · Eagle
Measured values Performance on tour Range 46.8 km 78,0 Average speed 26.2 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.22 1,43 Performance on hill Range 18.8 km 26,1 Average speed 21.5 km/h 22,2 Support factor 1.30 1,8
Efficiency triangle 24,2
Geschwindigkeit
19,6
21,5 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
Performance on city Range 25.5 km 40,1 Average speed 16,. km/h 17,6 Support factor 1.15 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
27.9 kg 17,4 3.7 kg 1,1
160 W
205 W
16,3 12,5
334 W
Tretleistung
0,61
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.8 2.4 2.1 3.7 3.6 2.9 2.3 2.3 1.8 3.6 3.0 1.9 2.3 2.0
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 140 kg Motor 250 W TransX front wheel hub motor Sensor type Movement & torque sensor Battery 360 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 20" aluminum 6060T6 Sizes F/M 46 cm Fork JD ISF Headshock suspension fork Transmission Shimano Deore 9-gear chain gearshift, Rapidfire gear lever Brakes f/r hydraulic disc brakes Tektro Auriga E Wheels f/r TransX alu wheels
deVELOpment engineering Gmbh Egnatinger St 3 · 85667 Oberpframmern
Telephone 080 93 903 60 Fax
Tires Schwalbe Big Apple 60-406, reflector stripes & flat protection Lights F Basta Halogen head lamp R LED stand rear light, optional dynamo & own power supply Extras Illuminated multi-f. LCD display, 3 support levels, take-off assistance up to 6 km/h, height-adjustable sidestand, angle-adjustable stem, ergon. handle grips, bow handlebar ave Command cockpit with handlebar operation, integr. luggage carrier Preis Komplettfahrzeug 1999 € Price Replacement battery 599 € E-mail info@development-engineering.de Web www.ave-bikes.de
Left The battery is hidden below the orange, lockable flap. The luggage is fastened with two, integrated elastic bands. · Right The display is mounted in the middle of a bridge made of synthetic material. The display is operated comfortably with the thumb of the left hand..
ExtraEnergy.org 77
city – easy pedelec
BH Bikes · Emotion Avant TesT seal
47
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 7
2010 July
Conclusion The Avant, in the Emotion electric range of BH Bikes, was liked by the test riders for its design. The good price-to-performance ratio caught the imagination. The motor is solid and performs at its best with riders who have some experience cycling the bike. The range of 50 km is very respectable. In the product group Easy Pedelec the Emotion Avant deservedly got the test seal “Good” with a c-factor of 6.
The Emotion Avant is fitted with the solid Panasonic bottom bracket motor, which supports well. On this model, the motor tended to give pulsating support in rhythm with the pedal, although this only happened when the testers cycled powerfully in low gears and at the border of the support speed. As is the case with all Panasonic-powered pedelecs,
78 ExtraEnergy.org
d geogoory easy
c at
Wellness Pedelec C-factor 5
The Spanish bicycle manufacturer BH Bikes has built a very wide lineup of pedelecs under the brand name Emotion. Of the many available models, we tested the Emotion Avant. For the fixtures offered, the price of 1,999 € is reasonable. The Panasonic liquid crystal display (LCD) meter on the handlebar was popular with the test riders. It gives all the important readings - including the battery level, actual motor support mode and speed - in a very readable format. The only shortcoming in the fittings was the Shimano v-brakes, which were surprisingly difficult to adjust. The Emotion Avant made a very good overall impression. Even design freaks will admit that it might not be the best idea to give the battery a black casing. It heats the battery up, especially in summer, with negative consequences for the battery capacity and lifespan.
pedelecs in test
it is important to ride in the right gear with a particular pedal strength, for the optimal efficiency. Once the rider has worked that out, the ride is an absolute pleasure. With a tour range of almost 50 km, the Emotion Avant was one of the range leaders in the ExtraEnergy test. If the permitted overall weight of this pedelec was higher than its 120 kg, it would definitely have counted among the Tour and Family Pedelecs. After all, it has a good luggage rack. As it is, the Emotion Avant notched up a good score in the product category Easy Pedelec. It was rated “Good” with a c-factor of 6.
Pros and Cons + Long range in city traffic + Power sensor activates motor smoothly + Motor cuts out gently at upper support level + – Big display with many functions
CITY – EASY PEDELEC
BH Bikes · Emotion Avant
Measured values Performance on tour Range 49.8 km 78,0 Average speed 21.9 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.64 1,43 Performance on hill 21.2 km 26,1 Range 16.4 km/h 22,2 Average speed 0.72 1,8 Support factor Performance on city 31.9 km 40,1 Range 14.0 km/h 17,6 Average speed 0.72 1,30 Support factor
Weight Vehicle Battery
24.5 kg 17,4 2.4 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
19,9 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
162 W 178 W 213 W
16,3 Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.6 1.5 1.7 2.8 3.3 2.8 2.5 1.9 2.4 2.6 2.5 2.2 2.2 2.2
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 28" aluminum frame, cables running inside Sizes F 49 · 51 cm M 51 · 56 cm Fork Suntour 28 CR-8V 1/8 LOCK Transmission Shimano Nexus 2010 8-gear system Brakes Shimano v-brakes
BH Bikes Europe Perretagana 10 · 01015 Vitoria Spain
Wheels Rodi VR 19 × 19, Shimano RM308 Tires Camel C-11034 Reflect Traveller, 40-622, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights F Basta Clear Halogen R Basta Ray Extras Panasonic LCD display, Bassano saddle, ergon. handle grips, spring-support saddle, sidestand, luggage carrier, frame lock
Price Vehicle 1,999 € Price Replacement battery 649 €
Telephone 003 49 45 13 52 02 Fax 003 49 45 13 93 21
E-mail bh@bhsa.es Web www.bh-emotion.com
Left Simple to operate and legible, the big display of the Emotion Avant. Apart from the battery capacity, the rider is informed about the speed and distance traveled. · Right The proven Panasonic bottom bracket motor is hidden behind the chain case. The NEC Lithium-ion-manganese battery lasts longest in cool temperatures, making the black color of the battery casing a less optimal choice. ExtraEnergy.org 79
City – Easy pedelec
Diamant · SAPHIR + TesT seal
47
pedelecs in test
y e as oory d g ego t a c
2010 July
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 6
Conclusion Solid, useful and with that little extra coming from a slightly different BionX motor system. Typically Diamant.
The Diamond Saphir+ belongs to the new Ride+ range of Diamant, under which the pedelecs of this traditional brand are grouped. Apart from the functional Shimano v-brakes and the simple Busch and Müller front lights, which can feed off the dynamo function of the motor when the battery runs empty, the highlight of the Diamant is the slightly different BionX motor. The additional power comes from a BionX motor which doesn’t look like a BionX motor at all. The casing of the rear wheel hub motor was designed by Diamant. The battery shape and positioning of the battery on the luggage carrier are also in-house developments. Both fit perfectly to the Saphir+ with its trendy whitecoated frame.
A disadvantage of the battery and motor integration at the rear, is that it torpedoes the weight-distribution and makes the tail heavy. It makes the Saphir+ difficult to carry. However, with a weight of only 23 kg, it remains quite portable. The weight was kept down by forgoing on suspension. Still, the test riders didn’t experience the Saphir+ as an uncomfortable or hard ride. Instead, they enjoyed the direct road contact, maintained despite the less than optimal weight distribution. The low step-thru model was tested, which isn’t as stable on the road as the men’s or harness model. But, that did not impact the generally good road-holding behavior of the vehicle at all. A SRAM 3-speed hub is integrated in the BionX motor. Together with the four support levels of the electric motor, that is more than sufficient. Diamant calls this the 3 × 4 concept. The motor supports gently and the torque sensor helps the rider up the hill with remarkable ease. Thanks to the silent, good motor, one gets around quickly with this pedelec. Despite the relatively low battery capacity of 195 Wh, the Diamond Saphir+ measured a good range of about 40 km for the tour sub-section. For zippy, everyday trips this is more than sufficient. Thanks to the solid, but not outstanding road performance (due to the tough competition in this group), the Diamant Saphir+ collected a c-factor of 6 and a test seal “Good”.
Pros and Cons + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support limit + 3-gear hub gearshift integrated in motor + Recuperation mode – Tail-heavy weight distribution 80 ExtraEnergy.org
CITY – EASY PEDELEC
Diamant · Saphir +
Measured values Performance on tour Range 38.9 km 78,0 Average speed 24.8 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.92 1,43 Performance on hill Range 12.5 km 26,1 Average speed 19.0 km/h 22,2 Support factor 0.84 1,8 Performance on city Range 18.3 km 40,1 Average speed 16.3 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.80 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
22.7 kg 17,4 2.4 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
19 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0 140 W 169 W 243 W
16,3
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
3.5 3.0 2.3 2.5 3.0 2.8 3.2 1.8 1.8 1.5 1.7 1.8 2.2 2.5
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 130 kg Motor 250 W BionX PL250HT rear wheel hub motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 195 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 28" Aluminum 6061 Sizes F Low step-thru 26" 40 cm, 28" 45/50/55 cm, Trapez 45/50/55 cm M 50/55/60 cm Fork Steel Starr fork Transmission 3-gear Sram hub system integrated in rear wheel hub motor, Sram turn handle
Bikeeurope B.V. / Trek Germany Stettbachstraße 2 · 8600 Dübendorf Switzerland
Brakes f/r Shimano v-brakes Wheels f/r Grünert Airliner hollow chamber f Shimano RM60 r Rear wheel hub motor Tires Schwalbe Roadcruiser Light 42-622, reflector stripes, flat protec. Lights f B&M Fly r Spanninga LED integrated in battery box, own energy supply Extras LCD display, 4 support levels, height-adjustable sidestand, ergon. handle grips, alu chain protection Price Vehicle 1,999 € Preis Replacement battery 429 €
Telephone 01 80 350 70 10 Fax
E-mail vertrieb@diamantrad.com Web www.diamantrad.com
Left The BionX hub motor with integrated SRAM 3-gear hub gearshift and muscle power measurement with the TMM4 sensor of ID Bike in Ausfallende. The »Dream team« as far as the technology is concerned. · Right The extremely compact operation panel is completely self-explanatory.
ExtraEnergy.org 81
City – Easy pedelec
Gepida · Nedao Cruiser test seal
47
pedelecs in test
d gry oeasoy y r o Vecateg
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 8
2010 July
Conclusion The Gepida Nedao Cruiser shows just how relaxing cycling can be with an electric motor on board. The cool look of a cruiser bike, combined with a center-positioned motor turns this pedelec into an eye-catcher.
Anyone who has ever had to cycle a chopper up a hill, knows just how tough that is. With the Gepida Nedao Cruiser you can now cruise stylishly without fear of strong headwinds. The relaxed feeling stays with the Nedao rider, even though he is cycling much faster (an average of just under 18 km/h) than the guy on the motorless cruiser bicycle. The Gepida weighs just short of 24 kg, but looks heavier. Therefore, it also glides along quite comfortably without motor. It was not that easy to carry, because of a plate at the point where one would intuitively grab the bike to lift it. Gepida removed this obstacle, after the ergonomic test had highlighted the problem. The wide Big Apple tires complete the look of the Nedao. In combination, the tires and couch-like Selle Royal Drifter spring saddle guarantee a comfortable ride. The 3-speed hub gearshift used on the Gepida Nedao sufficiently covers the speeds attainable with this bike. In any case, the good support of the motor will keep you sweat-free. The Yamaha motor used exclusively by Gepida in Europe provides a good service. When taking off against a hill, the motor with its torque sensor in the bottom bracket motor, responds immediately. This
82 ExtraEnergy.org
compensates for the apparently sub-optimal pedal position (rider leans slightly back) and the center-positioned motor supports exceptionally well against the hill and at take-off. The simple LED display on the expansive handlebar shows the battery status accurately. The range was measured at 53 km on the tour sub-section, in the highest support mode. This was one of the best ranges measured for all the vehicles in the test. In the City Comfort group, suspension that goes beyond fat tires and a spring saddle, and a luggage carrier belong to the package. Here the Nedao was awarded a “Good” test seal. Its good fittings, harmonious appearance and good performance on the road gave the Cruiser a better placement in the Easy Pedelec group, where it earned a c-factor of 8 and a “Very Good” test seal.
Pros and Cons + Long range + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support limit
CITY – EASY PEDELEC
Gepida · Nedao Cruiser
Measured values Performance on tour 53.1 km 78,0 Range 21.5 km/h 27,7 Average speed 0.77 1,43 Support factor Performance on hill 15,5 km 26,1 Range 17.6 km/h 22,2 Average speed 1.08 1,8 Support factor Performance on city 23.4 km 40,1 Range 14.8 km/h 17,6 Average speed 1.10 1,30 Support factor
Weight Vehicle Battery
23.8 kg 17,4 1.9 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
17,6 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
153 W
142 W
198 W
16,3 Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.8 1.5 1.9 3.6 3.2 2.4 2.2 2.3 2.1 2.6 2.3 2.3 1.9 1.6
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W Yamaha bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 212 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 26" Aluminum 6061 Size 46 cm one size fits all Fork Steel Starr fork Transmission Shimano Inter 3 3-gear hub gearshift, turn handle
Olimpia Bicycle LTD Ostorhogystraße 4 · 1164 Budapest Hungary
Brakes f/r Gepida Alu LB-927 v-brakes Wheels f/r Rodi Vision hollow chamber Alu f/r Gepida Tires Schwalbe Big Apple 60-559, reflector stripes Lights f no light r no light, no dynamo Extras 3 Support levels, Selle Royal Drifter saddle Price Vehicle 1,799 € Price Replacement battery 599 €
Telephone 0036 1 400 60 65 Fax 0036 1 402 00 84
E-mail info@gepida.de Web www.gepida.de
Left A cruiser to fall in love with; beautiful detail, but not overdone. · Right The operation panel of the Yamaha motor is simple, intuitive, but absolutely sufficient for the cruiser. ExtraEnergy.org 83
city – easy pedelec
Heinzmann · estelle Comfort TesT seal
47
pedelecs in test
d geogoory easy
2010 c at
July
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 6
Conclusion The Heinzmann estelle Comfort shines with strong support and a very long range. Support is dosed as needed with a turning handle and the motor is available as conversion kit. This is a good choice for individualists.
With its dark-colored frame and wide handlebar, the Heinzmann estelle Comfort makes a relaxed and quite sober impression. Once comfortable on the generous saddle, the special features of the vehicles catch the eye. There are well-functioning v-brakes in front, a back-pedal brake in the rear and a 7-gear Shimano Nexus gearshift. But, there’s more. The real highlight is the unique Heinzmann front hub motor, with support which can be dosed personally. This is done by turning a handle, which is activated as soon as the pedals start moving. In this way one can accelerate as wished. The disadvantage of the turning handle is that it can cause a stiff wrist on long trips. But, it makes the range more controllable (range depends on how much the motor is called upon to assist). In our test all bikes were always cycled at maximum support. Still, the estelle Comfort achieved a good range of 42 km with an excellent s-factor of 1.4 on the tour
84 ExtraEnergy.org
sub-section and even better 1.8 on the hill sub-section. One can therefore assume that a range of 60 – 70 km is achievable with careful use of the turning handle. Any hill can be conquered with this motor, even when the rider pedals only lightly. Furthermore, the Heinzmann motor is available as a conversion kit. In the category Easy Pedelec this pedelec stood its man against the big number of very strong competitors. It managed a c-factor of 6 and was awarded a test seal “Good”.
Pros and Cons + Strong support on tour and at hills + Take-off assistance + – Backpedal brake – no battery lock – high weight – support only if handle is turned
CITY – EASY PEDELEC
Heinzmann · estelle Comfort
Measured values Performance on tour Range 42.5 km 78,0 Average speed 25.2 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.43 1,43 Performance on hill 14.9 km 26,1 Range 20.5 km/h 22,2 Average speed 1.76 1,8 Support factor
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
23,8 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0 148 W
Performance on city Range Average speed Support factor
Weight Vehicle Battery
– 40,1 – 17,6 – 1,30
27.4 kg 17,4 3.5 kg 1,1
207 W
439 W
16,3 Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
3.0 3.0 2.5 3.5 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.o 1.5 3.0 4.0 1.5 2.0 2.5
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 130 kg Motor 250 W Heinzmann front hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 230,4 Wh Li-ion battery, removable with carry bag Battery charge status indicator Inaccurate (handlebar), accurate (battery) Frames 26" & 28" Aluminum Sizes 44, 48, 52 cm Fork Alu Starr fork Transmission Shimano Nexus 7-gear hub gearshift
Elektrorad-Service Altenbergerstraße 5 · 48329 Havixbeck
Brakes f v-brake r v-brake, back-pedal brake Wheels Alu hollow chamber rims Tires Schwalbe Marathon Plus 47-559, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights f B&M Lumotec Oval r Basta Ray steady LED AXA side-dynamo Extras Alu luggage carrier, angle-adjustable stem, Trelock frame lock, sidestand Price Vehicle 2,339 € Price Replacement battery 719 €
Telephone 02 507 572 96 10 Fax 02 507 572 96 11
E-mail info@elektrorad-service.de Web www.elektrorad-service.de
Left The extraordinary strong motor guarantees relaxed cycling, even against very steep hills. · Right The big Lithium battery with store compartment for the small charger is accommodated in the luggage bag. Neither battery, nor bag is secured against theft..
ExtraEnergy.org 85
city – easy pedelec
Kalkhoff · Pro Connect 8G Alfine test seal
47
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 10 Wellness Pedelec C-factor 7
pedelecs in test
oosy d g r ea y e n r Vetest win
2010 July
Conclusion The Kalkhoff Pro Connect is a perfect example of balance. Classic combines with power, comfort with smoothness and the well-balanced electronics with reliable components.
With its classic Diamont frame, the Kalkhoff Pro Connect is a contemporary which only reveals what it is capable of on the second glance. It is only when the rider starts pedaling that he realizes the Kalkhoff is a pedelec. Even as a bicycle, in other words without the motor, the pedelec is a smooth runner. The Pro Connect has no suspension, which makes it very direct. In the curves it is agile and on the straight sovereign. The sitting position of the Pro Connect is an excellent blend of sport and comfort. The ergonomic handle grips and beautiful light equipment by Busch und Müller Fly IQ Cyo, with hub dynamo were especially big favorites of the test riders. The road handling of this pedelec syncs perfectly with the well-tuned Panasonic motor. The Alfine Shimano hub gearshift functions extremely reliably – until one shifts gears with a heavy load on a hill. On all the subsections of the test track (tour, hill and city) the support factor was consistent around 1. At 21.3 kg this was the lightest pedelec in the test, which contributed to the good riding values and running characteristics. 86 ExtraEnergy.org
Thanks to its well-balanced, bicycle-like design and consistently good values for support, speed and range, the Kalkhoff Pro Connect won the product group Easy Pedelec. With a measured c-factor of 10, the Kalkhoff Pro Connect was the standard against which all other bikes in the group were measured. In the group Wellness Pedelec the Kalkhoff managed a c-factor of 7.
Pros and Cons + Long range in city traffic + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support limit + Low weight
CITY – EASY PEDELEC
Kalkhoff · Pro Connect 8G Alfine
Measured values Performance on tour Range 44.4 km 78,0 Average speed 24.8 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.00 1,43 Performance on hill 22 km 26,1 Range 20.3 km/h 22,2 Average speed Support factor 1.09 1,8
Efficiency triangle 24,2 19,6
Geschwindigkeit 20.3 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64 0
Performance on city 30.3 km 40,1 Range 14.8 km/h 17,6 Average speed Support factor 0.87 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
21.3 kg 17,4 2.4 kg 1,1
16,3
153 W
153 W
193 W
12,5
Tretleistung
0,61
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.2 1.3 1.5 1.9 2.3 2.2 2.3 1.7 1.9 2.1 1.9 2.0 2.o 1.9
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 28" Aluminum, cables running inside Sizes l 45 (S), 50 (M), 55 (L) cm m 45 (S), 50 (M), 55 (L), 60 (XL) cm Fork Aluminum Starr fork Transmission Shimano Alfine 8-gear hub gearshift, Rapidfire Brakes Shimano Deore XT v-brakes
Derby Cycle Werke GmbH Siemensstraße 1-3 · 49661 Cloppenburg
Telephone 04 471 96 60 Fax 044 71 96 64 48 45
Wheels Rodi Black Jack Warm Up f Shimano 3N72 hub dynamo r Alfine hub gear system Tires Continental Top Contact 37-622, reflection stripes, foldable Lights f B&M Fly IQ Cyo Plus r B&M Top Light Flat Plus, hub dyn. Extras Racktime Alu luggage carrier, ergon. handle grips, angle-adjust able A-head stem, height-adjustable rear-end stand Price Vehicle 2,399 € Price Replacement battery 499 €
E-mail info@kalkhoff-bikes.de Web www.kalkhoff-bikes.de
Left The chain tensioner deceives - a hub gearshift is at work here. · Right The B&M LED front headlamp lights up the way very well in the dark. The v-brake and Starr fork are functional and light.
ExtraEnergy.org 87
city – easy pedelec
Kalkhoff · Sahel Pro Disc test seal
47
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 8
Conclusion The Kalkhoff Sahel Pro Disc will be enjoyed for a very long time, thanks to its premium quality components and reliable motor technology. Of course, one has to pay a little more for the quality and durability.
Kalkhoff ’s Sahel Pro Disc is one of the most beautiful newcomers to the pedelec market. The powder-coated frame in restrained matt malachite green is scratch- and impact-resistant and catches the eye with its quality and elegance. The well-functioning hydraulic Shimano disc brakes 575, the chic Curana fenders and comfortable, cushy Big Apple tires give the Sahel Pro Disc its young and sporty look. The individual bicycle components, such as the DTSwiss rims, Shimano Alfine hub and B&M Fly IQ Syo Plus headlamp complement the premium quality appearance with an equally high-quality substance. All of this costs money, however, and at 2,699 € this pedelec falls in the higher price segment. The good fittings make a difference on the road. The transmission ratio of gearshift to motor support is very well selected. The motor supports effectively and consistently, irrespective of whether one pedals a bit stronger, or holds back somewhat. With only one exception: changing gears while pedaling hard against a hill. As is the case with all bottom bracket motors with hub gearshifts, one has to be very careful with this Shimano Alfine hub to take the strain off the chain while changing gears.
88 ExtraEnergy.org
pedelecs in test
oeasoy d g y y r r Vecatego
2010 July
The Sahel Pro Disc’s measured support wasn’t among the best in the test. On the other hand, the calculated range of 50 km on the tour subsection is a very good result. In urban spaces, where the vehicle is more likely to be used, the relatively low weight of 22 kg is advantageous. No wonder the Sahel Pro Disc passed the carry test in the ergonomic test with flying colors. In general, the Kalkhoff Sahel Pro Disc presented itself as a successful, rounded-off concept with only a few small weaknesses in support and performance on the hill. Its high-quality components, attractive design, low weight and high resemblance to bicycles make it a pedelec for style-conscious city dwellers who are willing to pay a little more. With a c-factor of 8 the pedelec earned the test seal “Very Good” in the product group Easy Pedelec.
Pros and Cons + Long range in countryside and city traffic + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support level
CITY – EASY PEDELEC
Kalkhoff · Sahel Pro Disc
Measured values Performance on tour Range 52.5 km 78,0 Average speed 24.6 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.69 1,43 Performance on hill 20.3 km 26,1 Range 18.2 km/h 22,2 Average speed 0.73 1,8 Support factor Performance on city 31.9 km 40,1 Range 14.4 km/h 17,6 Average speed 0.68 1,30 Support factor
Weight Vehicle Battery
22,2 kg 17,4 2,4 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
18.2 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
120 W
16,3
164 W
191 W
Tretleistung
12,5 0,61
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.4 1.5 1.6 2.1 2.2 2.0 2.4 2.0 2.1 2.1 1.8 2.0 1.8 1.9
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery (removable & lockable) Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 26" Aluminum frame, cables run inside Sizes m 45 (S), 50 (M), 55 (L) cm Fork Aluminum Starr fork Transmission Shimano Alfine 8-gear hub gearshift, Rapidfire brakes Shimano M575 hydraulic disc brakes
Derby Cycle Werke GmbH Siemensstraße 1–3 · 49661 Cloppenburg
Telephone 044 71 96 60 Fax 044 71 96 64 48 45
Wheels DTSwiss E540, Shimano Alfine Tires Schwalbe Big Apple 50-559, with reflector strips Lights f B&M Fly IQ Cyo Plus r B&M Top Light XS Plus hub dynamo Extras Racktime Alu luggage carrier, ergon. handle grips, Suntour NEX parallelogram-supported spring saddle, angle-adjustable A-head stem, Ätran Stylo rear-end stand Price Vehicle 2.699 € Price Replacement battery 499 €
E-mail info@kalkhoff-bikes.de Web www.kalkhoff-bikes.de
Left Disc brakes and hub dynamo by Shimano. Perfection in design and function. · Right The Panasonic bottom bracket motor and Sahel Pro Disk of Kalkhoff – a perfect team. ExtraEnergy.org 89
city – easy pedelec
Kettler · Layana Hybritec TesT seal
47
pedelecs in test
d geogoory easy
2010 c at
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 7
July
City Comfort Pedelec C-factor 5 Conclusion Not only did this pedelec impress with perfect functionality. It also cut a stylish picture on the way to shopping, the job, or on the way to the coffee shop.
The Kettler Layana Hybritec gets there elegantly and is a full-blooded pedelec. Particularly successful is the partly enclosed chain case. It covers the chain only, for a light, airy appearance. Small detail all over the vehicle strengthens the playful image. The components are very reliable and the turning handle gearshift safe and good. Some extras are well-intended, but still need the finishing touch. For instance, a handle on the step-thru is supposed to make carrying easier. However, at the ergonomic test in Lorsch it failed improve the bike’s portability test results, for the simple reason that the Layana weighs a solid 25.8 kg. The highquality shopping bag for the luggage carrier is a very beautiful piece of standard equipment. The 250 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor supports moderately and is very well suited to harmonious cycling in the city. The range of 47.9 km measured on the tour sub-section is more than good enough for the regular shopping trips, or short excursions. The upright sitting position and smoothness on the road, make riding The Layana a pleasure. In the very competitive Easy Pedelec product group, the Layana Hybritec placed very well with a c-factor of 6 and a “Good” test seal.
Pros and Cons + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support limit + Enclosed chain case
90 ExtraEnergy.org
CITY – EASY PEDELEC
Kettler · Layana Hybritec
Measured values Performance on tour Range 47.9 km 78,0 Average speed 23.2 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.68 1,43
Efficiency triangle 24,2 19,6
Geschwindigkeit
0,63 15.6 km/h
Performance on hill 20.5 km 26,1 Range Average speed 15.6 km/h 22,2 Support factor 0.85 1,8
12,1 15,6 0,64 0
Performance on city – km 40,1 Range – km/h 17,6 Average speed Support factor – 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
25.8 kg 17,4 2.4 kg 1,1
149 W
16,3 12,5
175 W
158 W
Tretleistung
0,61
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.7 1.5 1,9 3.5 3.4 2.5 2.7 1.9 2.3 3.0 2.0 2.3 2.3 2.0
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery Battery charge status indicator Frame 28" Aluminum with integrated luggage carrier Size f 47, 53, 57cm Fork Suntour NXC D Lock Out Transmission Shimano Nexus 8-gear hub gearshift, turn-switch lever Brakes v-brakes
HEINZ KETTLER GmbH & Co. KG Hauptstraße 28 · 59469 Ense-Parsit
Telephone 029 38 810 Fax 029 38 819 10 00
Wheels Rodi Vision Alu hollow chamber rims f Shimano 3N72 hub dynamo, Nexus hub gear system Tires Continental Eco Contact 42-622, reflector strips Lights f B&M Fly IQ LED r Kettler 3x LED, hub dynamo Extras Ergon. grips, spring-supported saddle, angle-adjusted stem, rear-end stand, closed chain case, shopping bag Price Vehicle 2,199 € Price Replacement battery 499 €
E-mail bike@kettler.net Web www.kettler-bike.de
Left Kettler spared no effort and built the Panasonic motor inside the chain protection. · Right A trendy bag fits to the bike, without looking like a typical bike luggage bag.. ExtraEnergy.org 91
city – easy pedelec
Kettler · Obra Hybritec TesT seal
47
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 6
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Conclusion A premium quality and very comfortable pedelec for everyday trips. The support is moderate, the range very good and the display reliable and informative.
The Kettler Hybritec Obra is available in a discreet, chic grey. The component selection is high-quality and complete. Hydraulic rim brakes, a good Busch und Müller light system with Shimano hub dynamo and the chain completely covered with a chic chain cover, to keep the pants clean on the way to the office. This pedelec got an especially positive evaluation in the ergonomic test. Thanks to the air-suspended Suntour suspension fork and mounted spring saddle pillars, there is more than enough suspension comfort. The upright sitting position on the tested low step-thru model and wide handlebar with good, ergonomic handle grips, adds to the comfortable driving experience. The Panasonic bottom bracket motor does its work as well as can be expected. It is unobtrusive and the support of 0,66 (on the tour subsection) and 0,83 (on the hill) is more than sufficient for relaxed and
92 ExtraEnergy.org
speedy progress with the Hybritec Obra. Consequently, the range is so much longer, with 43.5 km measured on the tour sub-section and 21 km on the hill section. Thanks to the very legible LCD display, one is always well-informed of the current charge condition of the battery. According to the manufacturer, the Kettler Hybritec is optimally suited for trips to and from the office and for shopping trips, but can also be taken on longer excursions in the countryside, thanks to its good range. Our test confirmed that this pedelec is, in fact, very well suited for these kinds of trips. In the group Easy Pedelec the Hybritec earned the test seal “Good” with a c-factor of 6. Pros and Cons + Long range in city traffic + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support level + Enclosed chain case + – Big display with many functions
city – easy pedelec
Kettler · Obra Hybritec
Measured values Performance on tour Range 43.5 km 78,0 Average speed 22.8 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.66 1,43 Performance on hill 21.3 km 26,1 Range Average speed 16.7 km/h 22,2 Support factor 0.83 1,8
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6 0,63
16.7 km/h
12,1 15,6 0,64 0
Performance on city 30.0 km 40,1 Range Average speed 14.2 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.76 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
24,3 kg 17,4 2,4 kg 1,1
122 W
16,3 12,5
148 W
Tretleistung
0,61
174 W
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.4 1.5 1.6 2.4 2.7 2.5 2.6 2.0 2.3 2.5 2.3 2.0 2.2 2.5
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frames 28" aluminum with integr. luggage carrier Sizes D 47, 53 cm (single pipe & trapeze model) H 51, 55 cm Fork Suntour NXC D Lock Out Transmission Shimano Nexus 8-gear hub gearshift, turn gear lever Brakes f Firm Tech r Magura HS11 hydraulic rim brakes
Heinz Kettler GmbH & Co. KG Hauptstraße 28 · 59469 Ense-Parsit
Telephone 029 38 810 Fax 029 38 819 10 00
Wheels Rodi Snyper hollow chamber wheels f Shimano 3N72 hub dynamo, Nexus hub gear system Tires Continental Eco Contact 42-622, with reflector stripes Lights f B&M Kettler Fly IQ LED r B&M Top Light Flat Plus Extras LCD display , integr. luggage carrier, ergon. handle grips, spring-supported saddle, angle-adjusted front stem, height adjustable rear-end stand Price Vehicle 2,299 € Price Replacement battery 439 € E-mail bike@kettler.net Web www.kettler-bike.de
Left To keep the chain clean, Kettler developed a circular chain protector, which does not make life difficult when removing the wheel to repair a flat. · Right The big and very readable display gives a good overview of actual trip statistics and the remaining battery capacity.
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Koga-Miyata · Tesla Tour TesT seal
47
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 5
Conclusion With its relaxed riding characteristics, the Koga Miyata is a full-blooded Easy Pedelec made for “easy” excursions.
The tradition-rich Dutch brand Koga Miyata is in the first place known for its premium quality tour bicycles. It wanted to preserve these high standards in its range of pedelecs and succeeded perfectly with the Tesla Tour. The mono-shock fork and B&M front lights, integrated in the mudguard, are also pretty outstanding. The frame is robust and gives the pedelec a stable riding feeling. The bulky bottom pipe certainly also have something to do with it, but the real reason for the exceptional width, is the fact that the battery is housed in the pipe. Unfortunately, the battery can only be exchanged by a retail trader. The Koga Miyata weighs almost 30 kg and, therefore, there should be an electric plug available at the parking lot and the lot should be in easy reach, because the bike cannot be carried. Thanks to the strong construction method nothing rocks or rattles. No noise interferes with the ride – not even from the motor. The motor gets the Koga Miyata, the “Cadillac” among the pedelecs, going very well. The upright, comfortable sitting position really gives the rider an appetite for cycling around the neighborhood. By selecting a lower support level for the trip (all test rides were completed with maximum support), one can also cycle longer stages without re-charging. The gears are changed effortlessly with the press of a finger on the mounted Shimano Nexave switch triggers. The display is another 94 ExtraEnergy.org
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d geogoory easy
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well-functioning component. It can be removed and then doubles as an immobilizer. The Shimano roll and drum brakes on the Koga have the advantage that they can’t get blocked. But, the brake pressure point is very soft and needs getting used to. Long descents should be avoided, but that is also not what this pedelec was built for. As the name of the Koga Miyata Tesla Tour says, this pedelec is for tour cycling. As Tour Pedelec it performed very well in the test and was awarded a test seal “Good”, even though the integrated battery is not ideal for a tour bike. If you are a laid-back cycler who likes to cruise through your stages in a stable, comfortable and relaxed way, you can confidently go for the Koga Miyata.
Pros and Cons + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support level + High loading capacity + – Big, multi-function display doubles as key – Battery cannot be removed – Heavy – Expensive
city – easy pedelec
Koga-Miyata · Tesla Tour
Measured values Performance on tour 43.4 km 78,0 Range 24.8 km/h 27,7 Average speed Support factor 0.84 1,43 Performance on hill 15.1 km 26,1 Range 17.1 km/h 22,2 Average speed Support factor 0.97 1,8 Performance on city – km 40,1 Range – km/h 17,6 Average speed Support factor – 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
29,7 kg 17,4 – kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
15.1 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
178 W
16,3
184 W
211 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
– 1.4 – 3.0 4.0 3.5 1.7 1.7 2.0 3.0 1.4 1.5 2.2 2.0
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 140 kg Motor 250 W Accell rear wheel hub motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 264 Wh Nickel-metal hybrid battery Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 28" Alu 7005 hand-welded Sizes F 47, 50, 53, 56 cm M 54, 57, 60, 63 cm Fork Koga Lightweight, integrated suspension Transmission Shimano Deore 21-gearshift, Nexave gearshift lever Brakes f Shimano block brakes r Shimano drum brakes
Koga B.V. Tinweg 9 · NL-8445 PD Heerenveen The Netherlands
Wheels f Rigida Stratos, Shimano Nexave r Rigida Andra, Koga Tires Schwalbe Energizer 37-622, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights f B&M Koga Rayo r B&M Koga Luminance Extras LCD display, spring-supported saddle, Trelock frame lock, tool-free adjusted front stem, ergon. leather handles, Racktime luggage carrier, Pletscher side-stand Price Vehicle 2,999 € Price Replacement battery 499€
Telephone 01 80 404 01 22 Fax –
E-mail info@koga.com Web www.koga.com
Left The energy storage of a Ni-Mhd battery is hidden in the massive bottom pipe. It is charged via a power jack in the vicinity of the control display. · Right The ergonomic control center. Not only the gears, but also the support level can be changed quite comfortably with the right thumb.
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Moover · Comfort CMF TesT seal
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Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 6
Conclusion The Moover Comfort is comfortable and easy to operate. All its values measured in the mid-field, making the Moover Comfort a sound pedelec, without being extravagant.
The Swiss-made Moover Comfort delivers what it promises. The golden paintwork of this low step-thru creates the impression that it is primarily aimed at the “Golden Oldie generation” (over 50 years of age), but its abilities also make it attractive to a younger audience. The fittings are of high quality, but plain, and simple to operate. The spring saddle support, ergonomic hand grips and upright sitting position all contribute to a very comfortable ride. The Panasonic motor, housed in the bottom bracket, supports consistently and reliably. S-factors of 0.8 on all sub-sections of the test track are good. At almost 42 km the range is adequate for use in city environments and even rural environments. At 23.6 kg the weight of the Moover Comfort lies under the average, with positive consequences for handle-ability. On the tour sub-section it turned out to be one of the slowest bikes in the test and the riders completed their rounds unhurriedly. Nothing on this pedelec could be criticized, but then again: nothing also stood out as really noteworthy. The Moover Comfort received the test seal “Good” in the product group Easy Pedelec with a c-factor of 6.
Pros and Cons + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support level
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Moover · Comfort CMF
Measured values Performance on tour Range 42.2 km 78,0 Average speed 21.2 km/h 27,7 Support 0.78 factor 1,43 Performance on hill 19.1 km 26,1 Range 16.3 km/h 22,2 Average speed Support 0.80 factor 1,8 Performance on city 28.4 km 40,1 Range 13.3 km/h 17,6 Average speed Support 0.87 factor 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
23.6 kg 17,4 2.4 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
16.3 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
117 W
16,3
146 W 180 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.6 1.4 1.9 2.8 3.1 2.8 2.1 1.9 2.4 2.5 1.9 1.9 2.2 2.9
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frames 28" Aluminum Sizes F 45, 50 cm Fork RST Verso 2 Adjustable Transmission Shimano Nexus 8-gear hub gearshift, turn gear lever Brakes f/r Conzept SL 4 Finger v-brake
Moover Hybrid Bikes Ruessenstraße 6 · 6341 Baar Switzerland
Wheels Rodi Freeway alu hollow chamber wheels f BlackComp hub r Nexus hub gear system Tires Schwalbe Advancer light 42-622, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights f B&M Lumotec Fly Halogen r B&M Top Light Flat Plus Extras Height-adj. rear-end stand, ergon. handle grips, alu luggage carrier, spring-supported saddle, angle-adj. front stem Price Vehicle 2.215 € Price Replacement battery 569 €
Telephone 0041 417 69 72 20 Fax 0041 417 69 73 80
E-mail sales@moover.ch Web www.moover.ch
Left On the Moover the proven Panasonic bottom bracket motor provides the propulsion. · Right The Shimano Nexus 8-gear hub provides the proper transmission. setzung. ExtraEnergy.org 97
city – easy Pedelec
Prophete · Alu-Rex
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 2
Conclusion The Alu-Rex E-Bike remains true to the strategy of the vendor Plus and is positioned in the very low price segment. Some bikes in this price range offer short-term satisfaction, but this low-priced pedelec does not even promise that.
The Alu-Rex E-Bike of manufacturer Prophete is distributed primarily by pedals. In position M you have to dose support with the turning handiscounters and big chains. We got our Alu-Rex E-Bike from Plus. One dle. In reality, however, the handle doesn’t work and is nothing more should be careful with the name. It is confusing. This is a pedelec and than a kind of on-off switch. The test riders couldn’t work out the purnot an e-bike, since the motor only supports the rider when (and if) pose of the on-off switch. he pedals. As with other low-cost pedelecs, the Alu-Rex motor is also difficult for The bike is available in different equipment versions. Ours has a 3-gear the rider to understand. This is mainly due to the use of a simple moSRAM hub gearshift and sells for 599 €. At that price, the minimum fit- tion sensor on the foot pedal to save money. It senses movement of tings of the Alu-Rex are hunky-dory. The side-running Dynamo, cheap the foot pedal (for instance, when the rider pedals). The recorded sigv-brakes and suspension fork are sufficient for most basic demands. nal is passed through the controller to the motor, which then starts And the Alu-Rex adheres to all statutory provisions. The control and to support. But, on the Alu-Rex the motor and pedal are not synchroadjustment of the riding modes are “confusing”, to say the least. For nized. Instead, the motor support kicks in with a long delay and also what the “E/M” switch is useful, one has to study the manual careful- cuts out with a long delay. This makes taking off against a hill especially and even then its purpose remains vague. A little hint: In position ly difficult. Then again, one should in any case avoid long hills. Why? E the motor supports automatically and as soon as you step into the The instruction manual says so. The motor should not be operated “under high stress”… The simple motion sensor explains why the bike measured slightly above-average s-factors. However, the very strong support (for a relatively heavy bike) comes at the expense of range. The Alu-Rex measured the lowest values in the test. The underperforming battery reinforces the problem. We re-measured, only to find that the battery delivers far less power than it saves. Or, than the manufacturer says it saves. Still, the Alu-Rex met the minimum requirements of the product group Easy Pedelec and scored a c-factor of 2, which was insufficient for a test seal.
Pros and Cons + Low price + – Back-pedal brake – Short range – Delayed support and cut-out – No take-off assistance – Inaccurate battery display on handle – Simple components – Heavy – Control unit not self-explanatory – Difficult to ride without motor 98 ExtraEnergy.org
city – easy Pedelec
Prophete · Alu-Rex
Measured values Performance on tour 24.2 km 78,0 Range 21.2 km/h 27,7 Average speed 1.05 1,43 Support factor Performance on hill 12.1 km 26,1 Range 17.4 km/h 22,2 Average speed 0.91 1,8 Support factor Performance on city 16.3 km 40,1 Range 13.0 km/h 17,6 Average speed 1.10 1,30 Support factor
Weight Vehicle Battery
27.7 kg 17,4 4.1 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
16.2 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0 114 W 140 W
16,3
259 W
Tretleistung
12,5 0,61
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.7 2.4 2.5 3.0 3.5 3.5 3.3 3.4 3.9 4.3 3.4 3.8 2.0 4.0
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 128 kg Motor 250 W Bafang front hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 240 Wh Li-ion battery Battery charge status indicator Inaccurate (handlebar), accurate (battery) Frame 28" Alu Size 50 cm Fork Alu suspension fork
SI-Zweirad-Vertriebs-GmbH Lindenstraße 50 · 33378 Rheda
Telephone 052 42 410 80 Fax 052 42 492 57
Transmission Shimano 3-gear hub gearshift, turn handle Brakes f v-brake r v-brake, backpedal brake Wheels HJC alu rims f hub motor r hub gearshift Tires Duro Cordoba 47-622 Lights f Halogen r LED, Basta side-running dynamo Extras angle-adjustable handlebar front stem, alu luggage carrier, 2-leg stand Price Vehicle 599 € Price Replacement battery 390 € E-mail si-zweirad@prophete.net Web www.prophete.net
Left The Bafang hub gearbox motor is very powerful, without being noisy.· Right The PVC turn handle controlling the motor performance, is very hard. ExtraEnergy.org 99
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Raleigh · Dover de Luxe Front TesT seal
47
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 5
Conclusion The Raleigh Dover F is recommended for users who prefer inconspicuous pedelecs with solid features, proven technology and back-pedal brake.
The Raleigh Dover de Luxe F has a classic, low step-thru, which makes a trendy appearance with its red and black finish. This no-frills bike runs smoothly and reliably. The 7-speed hub gearshift by Shimano Nexus is problem-free. The concept v-brakes are rather soft, but eventually bring the Raleigh to a safe stop. The ergonomically comfortable handlebars, which are slightly bent backwards, ensure a comfortable ride. The Dover de Luxe F is equipped with a Panasonic motor system. In contrast to the normal bottom bracket motor of Panasonic, a front wheel hub drive is used on the Raleigh. This option was developed for customers who swear by a back-pedal brake, and do not want anything else, but still want a Panasonic motor.
Pros and Cons + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support limit + – Back-pedal brake
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The front wheel hub motor made a very mature impression during the tests. The control unit is beautifully modulated, thanks to established technology. On the road one hardly notices that the s-factor isn’t among the best. The three available support levels are functional and convenient. Despite the slightly less energy efficient motor (compared to the bottom bracket motor) the Raleigh Dover de Luxe has a good and long range. The Raleigh Dover de Luxe F is well balanced, measured average values and uses solid motor and frame technology and was awarded a test seal “Good”, with a c-factor of 5.
City – Easy pedelec
Raleigh · Dover de Luxe Front
Measured values Performance on tour Range 46.6 km 78,0 Average speed 23.3 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.87 1,43 Performance on hill Range 17.4 km 26,1 Average speed 17.4 km/h 22,2 Support factor 0.70 1,8
Efficiency triangle 24,2
Geschwindigkeit
19,6
17,4 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
Performance on city Range 26.4 km 40,1 Average speed 15.2 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.76 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
24.8 kg 17,4 2.4 kg 1,1
112 W 159 W
16,3 12,5
210 W
Tretleistung
0,61
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.8 1.5 1.9 2.8 2.9 2.4 2.2 1.9 2.4 3.0 2.5 1.8 2.2 3.o
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W Panasonic front hub motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 28" Aluminum Sizes F 26" 45 cm, 28" 45/48/53/56 cm M 53/57 cm Fork Raleigh Verso ADJ suspension fork, adjustable Transmission Shimano Nexus 7-gear hub gearshift, turn handle Brakes f/r Concept SL 4-Finger v-brake r backpedal
Raleigh Univega GmbH Siemensstraße 1-3 · 49661 Cloppenburg
Telephone 044 71 923 40 Fax 044 71 923 42 40
Wheels f/r Rodi WEB hollow chamber f hub motor r Shimano Nexus Tires Schwalbe Marathon Plus 40-622, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights f B&M Lumotec Fly LED r B&M Toplight Flat plus, hub motor with dynamo function Extras 3 support levels, Poligon Glide spring-supported saddle, height-adjustable side-stand, angle-adjust. front stem, ergon. handle grips, alu luggage carrier Price Vehicle 1999 € Price Replacement battery 499 € E-mail info@raleigh-univega.de Web www.raleigh-bikes.de
Left The Panasonic bottom bracket motor with the somewhat bulky plug box in which there is so little space that one struggles to pack everything back in, after having removed the front wheel. · Right The battery carries a warning, since the batteries of the Panasonic middle motors and those of the front wheel motors are compatible – but not 100%! Because, the Panasonic front wheel motor also serves as hub dynamo for the lights, to adhere to the road regulations (StVZO).
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Raleigh · Dover de luxe Premium TesT seal
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pedelecs in test
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Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 5
July
Conclusion This pedelec meets all the demands typically made of an Easy Pedelec. Solid fittings, moderate but reliable support and comfortable sitting position make this a bike for everyday use – not only for the Golden Oldie generation.
The Dover Deluxe of Raleigh, the English brand name with a long tradition, is a classic pedelec as far as the workmanship is concerned. It is primarily aimed at the target group “best ager”, but can also be used as a comfortable work horse. This is underlined by the low step-thru frame, upright sitting position, modern support, simple operation and solid and insusceptible fittings. Included in the fittings are, among others, a Shimano 7-gear Nexus gearshift, Concept v-brakes, a RST suspension fork and a Busch und Müller light system with Shimano hub dynamo. Add to that the proven Panasonic motor, and one has a durable, lowmaintenance pedelec, with an affordable price tag of 1,800 € to boot. The motor support is smooth and discreet, but of moderate strength.
102 ExtraEnergy.org
The s-factor was measured at 0.8. The range values of the Raleigh Dover Deluxe lie in the midfield, but are more than adequate for daily trips in the city, or short excursions. With these characteristics the Raleigh Dover Deluxe Premium is tailormade for the product category Easy Pedelec, where it deservedly received the test seal “Good” with a c-factor of 6.
Pros and Cons + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support limit
city – easy pedelec
Raleigh · Dover de luxe Premium
Measured values Performance on tour 37.3 km 78,0 Range Average speed 23.0 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.79 1,43 Performance on hill 16.3 km 26,1 Range Average speed 16.4 km/h 22,2 Support factor 0.72 1,8
Efficiency triangle 24,2
Geschwindigkeit
19,6
16.4 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
Performance on city 27.6 km 40,1 Range Average speed 13.4 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.88 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
24,8 kg 17,4 2,4 kg 1,1
108 W
16,3
151 W 208 W
12,5
Tretleistung
0,61
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.6 1.4 1.9 2.8 3.1 2.8 2.1 1.9 2.4 2.5 1,9 1.9 2.2 2.9
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 28" Aluminum Sizes F 26": 45 cm 28": 45, 48, 53, 56 cm M 28": 53, 57 cm Fork RST Verso adjustable Transmission Shimano Nexus 7-gear hub gearshift, turn gear lever Brakes f/r Concept SL 4-Finger v-brake
Raleigh Univega GmbH Siemensstraße 1-3 · 49661 Cloppenburg
Telephone 044 71 923 40 Fax 044 71 923 42 40
Wheels Rodi Freeway alu hollow chamber rims f Shimano 3N20 hub dynamo, Nexus hub gear system Tires Schwalbe Marathon Plus 47-622, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights f B&M Lumotec Fly Halogen r B&M Top Light Flat Plus Extras Height-adj. rear-end stand, ergon. handle grips, alu luggage carrier, spring-supported saddle post-modern, angle-adj. front stem Price Vehicle 1,899 € Price Replacement battery 499€ E-mail info@raleigh-univega.de Web www.raleigh-bikes.de
Left The reliable bottom bracket motor of Panasonic is partly hidden by the chain protector. · Right Very easy to operate: the »power« switches the system on and the »mode« button switches between support levels.
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Tchibo · Elektro-City-Rad »Powerbike«
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 4
Conclusion If there was a prize for the best cheap pedelec in the test, then the Powerbike would have won it. How ever, the basic fittings and very simple electric components didn’t qualify it for an ExtraEnergy test seal.
It says “Powerbike” on the frame, but this pedelec doesn’t look like a power bike. On its web site Tchibo also simply calls it Elektro-City-Rad – a description which speaks much more directly to the target market of this pedelec. With its low step-thru and stable handlebar basket, this bike is aimed at an older target market – people who must conserve their energy for doing homework and simply have to complete their shopping trips without breaking a sweat. The real strength of the Powerbike lies in the competitive price. It can be had for a recordbreaking low price of 600 €. But, sadly the price is not unjustified and the fact remains that one must be ready to compromise when looking at pedelecs priced below 1,500 €. Someone who flirts with a pedelec in the low price range cannot expect a high-end product. The bike components of the Powerbike made a better impression than one would have expected at the price – even though the side-running dynamo is old-fashioned and the brakes poor. The frame, fork and motor even carry a 3-year guarantee. Unfortunately, the battery The appearance and name of the Elektro-City-Rad (or Powerbike) may reisn’t covered by the guarantee. In addition, our tests revealed the battery mind of an Easy Pedelec. And that’s also where it satisfied the criteria best. saved far less energy than shown by the battery. The quality of the other The vehicle completed the test with a c-factor of 4. The simple electrical components (eg. inaccurate battery display) were mainly to blame for the electric components of the Powerbike also fits to the price. fact that the Powerbike didn’t get a test seal. In the riding tests, this pedelec usually ended in the middle of the test field. For instance, the attained range on our tour sub-section of almost 32 km and average s-factor of 1 equaled the test average. However, in the riding tests the big deficiencies of the pedelec also came to light. As can be expected at the price, a simple motion sensor is used, and not a powPros and Cons er sensor. With the result that one has to pedal a few revolutions before + Low price the motor jumps into action. Once it runs, it supports at the same, con – Delayed support activation and cut-out tinuous strength, irrespective of how strongly the rider steps in the ped – Unclear whether Eco switch works als. More critical is the stop-delay of the motor on the Powerbike, which – No take-off assistance needs some getting used to. Even though the brakes can override the mo – Battery display on handlebar imprecise tor, older riders with longer reaction times could end in dangerous situations very easily, because of the delayed cut-out. 104 ExtraEnergy.org
city – easy pedelec
Tchibo · Elektro-City-Rad »Powerbike«
Measured values Performance on tour Range 31.8 km 78,0 Average speed 24.1 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.00 1,43 Performance on hill 15.9 km 26,1 Range 19.7 km/h 22,2 Average speed Support factor 1.04 1,8
Efficiency triangle 24,2 19,6
Geschwindigkeit
0,63
19.7 km/h
12,1 15,6 0,64 0
Performance on city 19 km 40,1 Range 14.3 km/h 17,6 Average speed Support factor 1.06 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
26,5 kg 17,4 2,8 kg 1,1
155 W
161 W
16,3 249 W
12,5
Tretleistung
0,61
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.7 2.7 2.6 2.8 4.0 3.0 2.8 3.5 3.1 3.8 2.7 3.1 2.2 3.1
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W front hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 240 Wh Li-ion battery Battery charge status indicator Inaccurate (on handlebar), accurate (on battery) Frame 28" Aluminum Size 45 cm Fork Alu suspension fork Transmission Sram 7-gear hub gearshift, turn handle
Tchibo direct GmbH Überseering 18 · 22297 Hamburg
Telephone 01 805 85 40 Fax 01 805 85 08
Brakes f V-brake r v-brake and backpedal Wheels Alu hollow chamber rims f hub motor r Sram hub gearshift Tires Kenda 47-622, reflector stripes Lights f Halogen r LED, side-running dynamo Extras spring-supported saddle, ergon. handle grips, 2-legged stand, alu luggage carrier, angle-adj. front stem, handlebar basket Price Vehicle 599 € Price Replacement battery 260 € E-mail info@tchibo.de Web www.tchibo.de
Left Big switch, little effect. The switch on the handlebar is big, but its impact on support hardly noticable. The capacity indicator is very inaccurate – but still useful. After a while, the rider can estimate the battery capacity quite accurately with the help of the indicator. · Right The gearbox motor of Bafang is quiet, small, but nevertheless powerful. The cable protection is somewhat bulky. ExtraEnergy.org 105
City – Easy pedelec
Victoria · Malente Sport TesT seal
47
pedelecs in test
y e as oory d g ego t a c
2010 July
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 6
Conclusion Good support and ergonomic qualities make the Malente Sport a pedelec for everyday trips.
The Victoria Malente Sport is available as a low step-thru, a harness and a men’s version. The latter was tested. The Diamont frame and rigid front wheel fork give this bike its rather sporty look. The features of the Victoria Malente Sport aren’t outstanding, but solid: a Shimano Nexus hub gearshift, Busch und Müller lighting system, Tektro v-brakes and back-pedal brakes. The front stem makes an upmarket impression, with its angle-adjustment option, while the ergonomic handlebar grips and 4-finger Tektro brake grips are easy to grasp. The vehicle weighs 24 kg, but carries well, thanks to its good weight distribution.
Especially pleasing, is the way the battery is accommodated behind the seat tube, even though this caused minor problems with inserting and locking at our ergonomic test. (Testers missed a click, or snap-in sound.) The complete motor system is supplied by TranzX, excluding the battery. It gives good support. The fitted power sensor can only be noticed on the lowest support level, when it activates and de-activates the motor in line with the force in the pedals. In the highest support level, the rider senses no force-connected support. The motor cuts out smoothly
and the high average speed measured on the tour sub-section is testament to low road resistance. Although the Malente Sport used quite a lot of energy, thanks to the good support it gave at the maximum support level, it still had sufficient range, thanks to its 275 Wh storage battery. (The battery weighs only 2 kg.) The battery made a good impression. Unfortunately it didn’t work well with the battery charge status meter of TranzX and the rider was better advised to ignore the display on the handlebar. In doubtful situations, riders looked at the more reliable meter on the battery. Thanks to its good support values and good results in the ergonomic test, the Victoria Malente Sport managed a c-factor of 6 and was awarded the test seal “Good” in the product group Easy Pedelec.
Pros and Cons + Strong support on countryside + High extra loading capacity + – Back-pedal brake – Support activation and cut-out slightly delayed – Battery doesn’t remove problem-free, lock in way – Suggested to recalibrate power sensor before every take-off – Battery status indicator on handlebar very inaccurate
106 ExtraEnergy.org
City – Easy pedelec
Victoria · Malente Sport
Measured values Performance on tour Range 40.5 km 78,0 Average speed 26.6 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.31 1,43 Performance on hill Range 14.8 km 26,1 Average speed 20.1 km/h 22,2 Support factor 1.14 1,8 Performance on city Range 19.7 km 40,1 Average speed 16.6 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.89 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
24.0 kg 17,4 2.0 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
20,1 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
175 W
156 W
16,3
300 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
4.4 3.3 4.0 2.4 2.4 2.1 2.6 1.8 1.8 2.0 2.8 2.0 2.0 2.6
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 145 kg Motor 250 W TransX PST front wheel hub motor Sensor type Movement & torque sensor Battery 275 Wh Li-ion battery, removable and lockable Battery charge status indicator Inaccurate (on handlebar), accurate (on battery) Frames 26"/28" 6061 aluminum Sizes F low step-thru 26" 45 cm, 28" 49/54 cm, Trapeze 28" 48/52 cm M 53 cm Fork Aero-Unicrown alu Starr fork
Hermann Hartje KG Deich Straße 120–122 · 27318 Hoya
Transmission Shimano Nexus 7-gear hub gearshift, turn handle Brakes f/r Tektro v-brakes 855AL r Shimano Nexus backpedal Wheels f/r Rodi WEB hollow chamber f hub motor r Shimano Nexus Tires Schwalbe Energizer 47/40–559/622, reflector stripes Lights f B&M Lumotec Fly N-Plus r B&M Flat, AXA Dynamo HR-Traction Extras Multifunct. LCD display, 3 support levels, spring-supported saddle, post-modern, height-adj. sidestand, angle-adj. front stem, ergon. handle grips, alu luggage carrier, frame lock Price Vehicle 1899 € Price Replacement battery 499 €
Telephone 042 51 81 15 00 Fax 04 251 81 11 59
€
E-mail info@hartje.de Web www.e-rad.de
Left Communication between battery electronics and vehicle display unit can be so simple. Here it, unfortunately, is not the case. Therefore, it is better to de-activate the handlebar display, which also cannot be fixed properly. · Right The battery is of top quality, the charge status indicator on the battery accurate, the position of the center of gravity perfect, but the lock gets stuck. ExtraEnergy.org 107
city – Easy pedelec
Victoria · Münsterland TesT seal
47
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 6 Wellness Pedelec C-factor 5
pedelecs in test
d geogoory easy
2010 c at
July
Conclusion The Victoria Münsterland successfully integrates the electrical components, but the fittings are less successful. At 1,499 € the price is very low, but that is also why one doesn’t get any extras. The powerful Bafang motor supports continuously. The Münsterland received a test seal “Good” as an Easy Pedelec.
Despite the difficulties encountered with the charging, the Victoria Münsterland is agile and maneuverable. The powerful Bafang motor supports very well. Since the Münsterland has only one speed sensor on the crank handle, the motor always gives a powerful boost, irrespective of whether one simply moves the pedals, or stands in the pedals strongly. Without realizing it, the rider adapts his riding style to the behavior of the pedelec. So, he quickly allows himself to be pushed by the bicycle. On the tour sub-section, this riding behavior had a positive impact on the support factor. Against the hill, or with stop-and-go riding in the city, the take-off assistance, activated by a turning handle grip, helped the rider up to 6 km/h. The level of support is regulated on the turning handle grip, and the tendency of the motor to delay the cut-out, can also be rectified here. The Victoria Münsterland is the original nofrills bike and delivers a solid performance. It fulfills the pre-requisites of an Easy Pedelec the best. It’s a good choice for all who like to The bright-red frame of the Victoria Münsterland catches the eye first. get around in a relaxed, easy-going way. In this product group the bike This pedelec – with its classical swan-neck frame and cleverly placed earned the test seal “Good” with a c-factor of 6. In the group Wellness battery – looks a lot like a normal bicycle. All the essentials are at hand, Pedelec it managed a c-factor of 5. but the extras are absent. By reducing the fittings to the bare essentials the manufacturer also kept the overall weight – and its price – in check. Pros and Cons + Strong support on tour and against the hill The premium quality battery is a good choice, but isn’t applied to ex + Assists at take-off ploit all its capabilities. For instance, a more precise battery charge dis + – Back-pedal brake play on the handlebar, which isn’t voltage-based, would have upgrad – Delayed support activation ed the Victoria Münsterland significantly. Another shortcoming is the – Supports only when turning handle power jack on the battery. On the test bike the power jack could only – Inaccurate battery charge indicator on handlebar be located and the closure opened with great difficulty. – Battery removal problematic, lock in way
108 ExtraEnergy.org
city – Easy pedelec
Victoria · Münsterland
Measured values Performance on tour Range 35.2 km 78,0 Average speed 23.6 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.25 1,43
Efficiency triangle 24,2 19,6 Geschwindigkeit
0,63 18.7 km/h
Performance on hill 16.4 km 26,1 Range 18.7 km/h 22,2 Average speed Support factor 1.45 1,8 Performance on city 19.1 km 40,1 Range 14.6 km/h 17,6 Average speed Support factor 0.9 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
22.6 kg 17,4 2.1 kg 1,1
12,1 15,6 0,64 0
135 W
16,3 12,5
196 W 263 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
4.0 2.6 4.3 2.4 2.3 2.0 2.7 2.5 2.5 3.0 2.5 2.5 2.6 3.2
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250W Panterra front wheel hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 275 Wh Li-ion battery (removable & lockable) Battery charge status indicator Frame 28" Aluminum Sizes F 49, 54 cm Fork Steel Starr fork Transmission Sram S7 7-gear hub gearshift, turn handle Brakes f V-brake r backpedal
Hermann Hartje KG Deich Straße 120–122 · 27318 Hoya
Wheels Tour Etrto alu hollow chamber rims f hub motor r Sram SR7 rear wheel hub Tires Continental Tourride 42-622, reflector stripes Lights f B&M Lumotec r B&M Toplight Flat Plus, side-running dynamo Extras Spring-supported saddle, post-modern, height-adjustable side-stand angle-adjustable handlebar front stem Price Vehicle 1,499 € Price Replacement battery 499 €
Telephone 04 251 81 15 00 Fax 04 251 81 11 59
E-mail info@hartje.de Web www.e-rad.de
Left The gearbox motor of Bafang, is quiet, small, but nevertheless powerful. The cable protection is a bit bulky.· Right The control center on the handlebar, a turn handle which is activated the moment the pedals move. The charge status indicator is not really useful. When in doubt, take a look at the much more reliable indicator on the battery.
ExtraEnergy.org 109
city – easy Pedelec
Vitalbike · Tour Y test seal
47
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 8 City Comfort Pedelec C-factor 7
pedelecs in test
oeasoy d g y y r r Vecatego
2010 July
Wellness Pedelec C-factor 5 Conclusion A well-defined and practical pedelec with excellent Ansmann motor. Only partly suited to tours, since the loading capacity is too low, but there seems to be unutilized potential.
The Vital Bike Tour Y makes a vigorous, almost energetic appearance. Its stable frame with additional crossbar and wide tires are designed to be practical. With a weight of 23.5 kg it isn’t easily carried, but, compared to other pedelecs, it’s passable. The ergonomic handle grips on the comfortably wide handlebar hold well, and the angle of the front stem is adjustable. The display is mounted on the left and very practical with big buttons and a clear design. Unfortunately, the battery status indicator is inaccurate – the only place to get a reliable reading of the battery charge condition, is directly on the battery at the back. It is not surprising that Lauda-based MVB GmbH, the firm behind the Vital Bike, has exclusive use of the Ansmann motor. The Ansmann manufacturer specializes in engines and batteries and is based around the corner from MVB in Lauda. It was a good move to get this firm, with its all-round “electrical know-how”, as a partner. The very quiet motor offers good support, especially in combination with its 324 Wh storage battery, which guarantees a long range. The front hub motor starts supporting as soon as the pedals are turned and gives strong take-off support. The Tour Y also has take-off assistance, which is activated by pushing a button, and works well. The bike can be improved with a few, small adjustments to the battery. For instance, the battery doesn’t make a click-sound when it is Pros and Cons + Motor activates well, despite motion sensor + Assists at take-off + – Back-pedal brake – Slightly delayed support – Discharging possible, if battery not switched off after vehicle use
110 ExtraEnergy.org
replaced. Result: one doesn’t know whether the battery is locked, or not. Should the rider forget to double-check before he takes off, the battery can easily be lost. On the other hand, if the rider forgets to switch the battery off when he gets off, it will discharge while stationary. Despite minor flaws, the Vital Bike still displayed a good enough character to be awarded a “Very Good” test seal in the product group Easy Pedelec, with a c-factor of 8. It also received the seal “Good” in the groups City Comfort and Wellness.
city – easy Pedelec
Vitalbike · Tour Y
Measured values Performance on tour 41.6 km 78,0 Range 24.2 km/h 27,7 Average speed Support factor 0.96 1,43 Performance on hill 20.0 km 26,1 Range 19.6 km/h 22,2 Average speed Support factor 0.91 1,8
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6 0,63
19.6 km/h
12,1 15,6 0,64 0
Performance on city 22.6 km 40,1 Range 14.9 km/h 17,6 Average speed Support factor 1.34 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
23,7 kg 17,4 2,0 kg 1,1
143 W
157 W
16,3 12,5
268 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.0 2.3 1.8 1.9 2.7 2.0 1.7 2.0 2.0 2.3 1.3 2.7 1.3 2.5
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W Ansmann front wheel hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 324 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Inaccurate (on handlebar), accurate (on battery) Frame 28" Aluminum 6061 Sizes F 44, 48, 52, 56 cm Fork Suspension fork RST Trendy Transmission Shimano Nexus 8-gear hub gearshift, turn handle
MVB GmbH Rathaus Straße 3–7 · 97922 Lauda
Brakes f V-brake r v-brake, backpedal brake Wheels Alu hollow chamber rims f hub motor, Shimano Nexus hub Tires Schwalbe Marathon Plus 47-622, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights f Basta Sprint LED r LED rear light, side-running dynamo Extras Humpert spring-supported saddle, Hebie height-adj. sidestand, angle-adj. front stem, 2-leg stand, Trelock frame lock, ergon. handle grips, Racktime alu luggage carrier Price Vehicle 2.299 € Price Replacement battery 549 €
Telephone 093 43 627 05 70 Fax –
E-mail info@vital-bike.de Web www.vital-bike.de
Left The small and light-weight, but nevertheless strong-pulling and quiet Ansmann front wheel hub motor. · Right The battery is quite thin, although it looks thicker inside the cover. The lock is not very user-friendly, since it doesn’t slide closed on its own, but has to be pushed closed.
ExtraEnergy.org 111
city – Easy Pedelec
Winora · town e:xp TesT seal
47
Product group Easy Pedelec C-factor 7
pedelecs in test
y e as oory d g ego t a c
2010 July
Wellness Pedelec C-factor 6 Conclusion The Winora town:exp is a small pedelec with a racy design, agile road performance and a bit too much weight. The TranzX system supports strongly, but can still do better with a little fine-tuning.
With its unconventional frame construction and cyan-blue rear-end construction, the Winora town:exp brought some color to our field of test vehicles. The design found great support at the ergonomic test. The colorful rear-end is more than decorative. It houses a 360 Wh-battery, which can be removed by lifting the lockable flap. The bike reveals no weaknesses with its Shimano Deore 9-speed chain gearshift and hydraulic Tektro anti-lock disk brakes. The weight of the Winora is the only bitter pill: the eye-catching aluminum cast wheel rims pushes the weight to 26.8 kg. The weight is also not distributed evenly, and good gripping opportunities are lacking, making it very difficult to carry the vehicle. In general, the motor offers good support. The TranzX system by JD is equipped with a power sensor and also with a motion sensor. Unfortunately, the control cannot really be felt. The support doesn’t seem to be synced with the pedal input and changing support mode also doesn’t
make a noticeable difference. It is suggested that the power sensor be recalibrated before each ride (by pressing the button for several seconds). Not doing this, might lead to the motor cutting out unexpectedly during the ride. The rear wheel motor requires a moment to deliver its full performance. If adjusted properly, and the motor at full performance, the motor supports strongly. The powerful battery guarantees a long range. Despite a few minor teething problems with the TranzX system, the pedelec’s good handling, good performance on the road, long range and great design convinced the test team. The Winora town:exp notched up a c-factor of 7 in the group Easy Pedelec and was given a test seal “Good”.
Pros and Cons + Strong support in the countryside and against the hill + Long range on tour and in city traffic + High loading capacity + Turbo button for 30% higher engine torque in each level – Non-smooth activation and cutting out of motor at upper support limit – Slightly delayed activation and deactivation of motor – Recalibration of power sensor recommended before every take-off – Weight distribution uneven, with more in tail
112 ExtraEnergy.org
city – Easy Pedelec
Winora · town e:xp
Measured values Performance on tour Range 57.0 km 78,0 Average speed 25.5 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.35 1,43 Performance on hill Range 19.8 km 26,1 Average speed 21.5 km/h 22,2 Support factor 1.32 1,8
Efficiency triangle 24,2
Geschwindigkeit
19,6
21,5 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
Performance on city Range 31.6 km 40,1 Average speed 16.6 km/h 17,6 Support factor 1.06 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
26.8 kg 17,4 3.7 kg 1,1
154 W 199 W
16,3 319 W
12,5
Tretleistung
0,61
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.9 2.4 2.2 4.1 4.2 3.0 2.3 2.3 2.2 3.6 2.8 2.3 2.1 1.7
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 137 kg Motor 250 W TranzX rear wheel hub motor Sensor type Movement & torque sensors Battery 360 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 20" Aluminum 6061 Monotube frame Size 45 cm Uni-size Fork JD JF6 20" suspension fork Transmission Shimano Deore 9-gear chain gearshift, Rapidfire Brakes f/r hydr. disc brakes Tektro Auriga E
Winora Staiger GmbH Max-Planckstraße 6 · 97526 Sennfeld
Telephone 097 21 659 40 Fax 097 21 65 94 45
Wheels f/r Alu System wheel set Tires Schwalbe Big Apple 55-406, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights f B&M Lumotec Fly r Basta Riff Steady, Dynamo HR motor with dynamo function Extras Multifunct. LCD display, height-adj. sidestand, integr. luggage carrier, error code read-out, code no. registration (passive theft protection), 8 color variations Price Vehicle 2,199 € Price Replacement battery 690 € E-mail info@winora.de Web www.winora.de
Left The town e:xp boasts a number of beautiful details. The two rails with integrated elastic bands for fastening luggage. Right Push the »turbo button« on the lefthand side of the handlebar for a short boost in support.
ExtraEnergy.org 113
city – Business
114 ExtraEnergy.org
city – Business
Test winner Business
Business · cycling in business class
To be classified as a Business Pedelec, a vehicle must register a minimum average speed of 26 km/h over a 5 km stretch and still have a range of 30 km. These criteria are not easy to meet and only the 4 Fast Pedelecs (s-pedelecs) we had in the test made it into the category. All four were awarded test seals. Business Pedelecs are for everyday commuters and courier services traveling up to 30 km on a single trip. The key statistics are range and speed. It must be clear that (with these tough criteria for professional use pedelecs) only bikes capable of going faster than 25 km/h would make it into the category. According to German law these vehicles must be insured. On the positive side, the license plates protect these first-class bikes from thieves. Price doesn’t play a role in this group. But, the buyer gets a well-fitted bike (mudguards, lights, kickstand and luggage carrier as a minimum), which largely adhere to the road traffic regulations. Obviously, it must give strong support – also under peak-load (ie. taking off against a hill). ExtraEnergy expects them to have s-factors for the hill of at least 1. The multi-medial display must give the rider a complete overview of the performance of rider and vehicle. In a nutshell, these pedelecs should always offer that proverbial ’little bit extra’. www
300m
test seal
47
Dolphin · express
pedelecs in test
ods yinnegr bousines r e Vtest w
2010 July
The Dolphin Express won the product group Business Pedelec in a performance which lived up to its name. Just like the marine mammal, the Dolphin is extremely powerful, persevering and fast. The unique 500 W belt motor rewards effort with performance. When the rider pedals, he shoots forward at great speed, irrespective of whether he is on a flat or against a hill. Commuters, business people and speed junkies will definitely be satisfied with the test champion of range and speed.
All pedelecs in this product category Dolphin · Express......................................... 116 Diamant · ZOUMA SUPREME+.......................152 Flyer · X-Serie MTB.........................................132 Sachs · Electra 3............................................ 134
ExtraEnergy.org 115
city – Business s-pedelec
Dolphin · Express
Product group Business S-Pedelec C-factor 10
test seal
47
pedelecs in test
d gr bousioness y r e Vteest winn
Sport S-Pedelec C-factor 10
2010
Wellness S-Pedelec C-factor 7
July
Conclusion The Dolphin Express is in a class of its own: it speeds over hills and valleys, with endurance and extreme power. The unique 500W belt motor rewards effort with performance. Pedal, and the bike shoots forward. Commuters, business people and speed junkies will love this champion of range and speed. The Dolphin Express is ExtraEnergy’s test winner in the category Business Pedelec.
The Dolphin Express is a fast pedelec (s-pedelec) and reaches a top speed of 45 km/h on flat sections – a performance which puts it in competition with motor scooters. For that performance, the Dolphin had to take a different motor approach: a 500 W-strong continuous current motor (next to the chain stay) transfers power to the rear axle with a belt motor (making a very distinctive noise). An epicyclical, or planetary gear set is built into the specially constructed rear wheel hub, enabling power to be transferred smoothly. The Dolphin also has a distinctive design. The racy frame reminds of its namesake in full flight.
The fascinating thing about the Dolphin is that one gets the strongest support when one pedals hard. In a nutshell: effort is rewarded with performance. Thanks to this unique technology, the rider cycles as he would cycle a normal bicycle, and moves forward much quicker than he would with a normal bike. On the hills, at the latest, the rider realizes his speedster was made to conquer the passes of Switzerland.
Once the rider has worked out which support level to use with the speed he wants, raw power is fed to the rear wheel. The high level of support (also over long stretches) is maintained over hill and flat secWith all this power, the Dolphin Express was the heaviest bike in the tions. It is, for instance, quite possible to ride a distance of 30 km at test at 31.5 kg. The main contributor to the weight is the battery (8 kg). high speed. This is especially advantageous for commuters. But, there It does, however, have a capacity of 648 Wh. It is mounted in the mid- should be a shower at the workplace. Once you’re on this pedelec you can’t go slowly. Thanks to its high average speed and good support (also over long stretches) the Dolphin won the group Business Pedelec. It satisfies the demands of this group best, namely commuters, courier riders and business people under time pressure. The Dolphin also received the test seal “Very Good” from ExtraEnergy in the category Sport Pedelec. As Wellness Pedelec it was adjudged to be “Good”.
dle of the frame and is the “big, red heart” of the vehicle. This huge energy reservoir was responsible for top ranges on all sub-sections of the test track – at the highest average speeds of all in the test. The support level is set on a console positioned on top of the battery, just below the bend in the top tube. The charge status is also displayed on the console. 116 ExtraEnergy.org
Pros and Cons + Strong support on hill + Long range on tour and in city + Power sensor activates motor gently + – Has to be insurance – Pedal action needs getting used to – Load motor noise – Heavy – Expensive – No control unit on handlebar
city – Business S-pedelec
Dolphin · Express
Measured values Performance on tour 58.8 km Range 28.8 km/h Average speed Support 1.10 factor Performance on hill 37.5 km Range 25.6 km/h Average speed Support 1.30 factor Performance on city 47.6 km Range 17.8 km/h Average speed Support 0.63 factor
Weight Vehicle Battery
Efficiency triangle 58,8
24,6
34,9
24,8
2,94
0,67
37,5
14,9
Geschwindigkeit 25.6 km/h
30,4
18,5
1,72
0,84
51,0
17,6
17,8
15,6
1,25
0,63
0
202 W
263 W
364 W
Tretleistung
31,8 kg 18,1 8,6 kg 2,4
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
3.7 3.3 3.8 4.6 4.7 4.0 2.7 3.4 2.5 3.1 4.3 3.5 2.7 2.5
37,3 8,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 130 kg Motor 500 W continuous current motor Sensor type Power scale Battery 648 Wh Li-ion battery lockable and removable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 26" Aluminum Size M/F 46 cm Fork Suntour NCX, adjustable Transmission Sram X-7 27-gear chain gearshift, Rapidfire Brakes f Avid mech. disc brakes r v-brake Sram X-7
Stromrad GmbH & Co. KG Königstraße 33 · 70173 Stuttgart
Wheels Alex DA16 hollow chamber f JoyTech r Evo Currie hub Tires Vitorria Randonneur Pro 40-559, reflector stripes Lights f B&M Cyo IQ Tec r LED rear light Extras adapted luggage carrier, angle-adjustable front stem, lock, alu sidestand, parallelogram spring-supported saddle Suntour SP8-NEX Price Vehicle 3,489 € Price Replacement battery 960 €
Telephone 07 11 46 88 92 95 Fax 07 11 46 88 92 95
E-mail info@stromrad.com Web www.stromrad.com
Left The toothed belt drive which transfers the power of the motor to the gearbox in the rear wheel hub – it makes a light whirring noise, which irritated some riders. · Right The display is new. It combines a variety of functions in a compact format..
ExtraEnergy.org 117
city – Mixed Mobility Pedelec
118 ExtraEnergy.org
city – Mixed Mobility Pedelec
Test winner Mixed Mobility
Mixed Mobility · practical flexibility
The group Mixed Mobility Pedelec stresses practicality. The deciding criterion is transportability, meaning it should fold and be light (below 22 kg). It is obvious why bikes should be able to fold in a city context. For some reason there is always a dearth of products in this group, although manufacturers often do lip service to “urban mobility”. Only two foldable electric bicycles participated in this test. Although competition was largely lacking in this group, the winner nevertheless deserved its test seal of “Very good”. Small, handy, light! Folding pedelecs are ideal for “hybrid commuters” participating in, what is generally known as “mixed mobility” (they go part of the way by bus, metro, train or car and then leap on their bikes for the last stretch, or vice versa). These electric bicycles are directly aimed at daily commuters in urban environments. Flexibility for portability, easy handling, practical, reliable and reasonable support are the key demands. Folding pedelecs can easily be carried into the apartment, hotel, office, or restaurant. The batteries charge quickly without removing the battery. With a Mixed Mobility Pedelec your transport is literally always ’at hand’.
www
300m
test seal
47
pedelecs in test
d gixeod moobility y r m r Vtewinne
2010 tes
Flyer · Faltrad NS
July
It’s a small, foldable bike, but very effective! The group Mixed Mobility Pedelecs has very clear demands: they should be foldable and transportable, solid and fast. Needless to say, the Flyer Faltrad NS is foldable. But, this little runaround also performed well on the road, making it a great bike for taking along on holiday, or as an additional city bike for those who aren’t into folding.
All vehicles in this product category Flyer · Faltrad NS.......................................... 120 Pacific Cycles · IF Reach City DC..................122
ExtraEnergy.org 119
city – Mixed Mobility Pedelec pedelec
Flyer · Faltrad NS test seal
47
Product group Falt Pedelec C-factor 10 Easy Pedelec C-factor 9
pedelecs in test
d gixeod moobility y r m Vtewinner
2010 tes
July
Conclusion The Flyer Faltrad ns is the perfect choice for people who stash or carry their bikes often and do not want to compromise on support.
With its small 20" wheels, high handlebar with folding mechanism, with locking mechanism behind the center pipe, this bike is easy to distinguish. Only the Panasonic drive discerns this bike from its competitors. At 21 kg it is noticeably heavier than the normal foldable bike. Compared to normal pedelecs, it is, of course, very light. With Shimano Nexus hub gears, Shimano v-brakes (front) and drum brakes (rear), plus Busch und Müller Fly lights, the fittings are non-spectacular. Due to its (relatively big) weight, this foldable Flyer is only of limited real mixed mobility use, ie. for taking it along on public transport. Unless folded, it is difficult to carry. As a result it is best used by people who can easily store it in a car trunk, or camper. With its low crossbar, low weight, smaller wheels and strong take-off support this Flyer shouldn’t only be judged on its size. The tour range was measured at a very good 52 km, in the low support mode. A road performance like that, makes the foldable bike interesting for non-folders. All the test riders appreciated the small and agile Flyer’s road performance and good control of the Panasonic motor. As foldable pedelecs are rare, the Flyer was (nearly) unrivalled and is sure to remain so for long, thanks to its outstanding road performance. In the product group Mixed Mobility it notched up a c-factor of 10. As winner of the group, it received the test seal “Very Good”. In the group Easy Pedelec it also earned a test seal “Very Good”.
Pros and Cons + Long range on tour + Well-balanced motor control thanks to power sensor + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support limit + Light + Space-saving for good transportability – Can’t roll when folded 120 ExtraEnergy.org
city – Mixed Mobility Pedelec pedelec
Flyer · Faltrad NS
Measured values Performance on tour 52.3 km 78,0 Range 22.5 km/h 27,7 Average speed 0.69 1,43 Support factor Performance on hill 22.2 km 26,1 Range 18.8 km/h 22,2 Average speed 0.85 1,8 Support factor Performance on city 28.0 km 40,1 Range 15.4 km/h 17,6 Average speed 0.76 1,30 Support factor
Weight Vehicle Battery
21.4 kg 17,4 2.4 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
18,8 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
136 W
16,3
161 W
179 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.6 1.8 1.4 3.8 2.0 2.0 2.0 1.6 1.8 2.6 1.8 1.6 1.6 2.6
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 20" Aluminum Size 41 cm Uni-size Fork Aluminum Starr fork Transmission Shimano Nexus 8-Gang Nabenschaltung, Drehgriff Brakes f Shimano v-brake r Shimano roll brake
Biketec AG Schwende 1 · 4950 Huttwill Switzerland
Wheels f/r Kinetik 20" f Shimano r Shimano Nexus Tires Schwalbe Marathon Racer 20×1,5, 40-406, reflector stripes Lights f B&M Lumotec Fly Halogen r B&M Top Light Flat Extras 3 support levels, vehicle foldable, spring-supported saddle, sidestand, alu luggage carrier, frame lock, foldable pedals Price Vehicle 2,390 € Price Replacement battery 495 €
Telephone 0041 629 59 55 55 Fax 0041 629 59 55 66
E-mail info@flyer.ch Web www.flyer.ch
Left The proven folding mechanism of Dahon, world market leader for folding bikes, functions problem-free. · Right The battery can be removed with the key of the U-lock. Before one can do that, however, one must get the key out of the U-lock – and that can be a bit of a struggle, since the key sits tight up against a luggage carrier strut..
ExtraEnergy.org 121
city – Mixed Mobility Pedelec pedelec
Pacific Cycles · IF Reach City DC TesT seal
47
Product group Falt Pedelec C-factor 7
pedelecs in test
dmobility omio xed g or y
2010 c at
Easy Pedelec C-factor 5
eg
July
Conclusion Agile, compact and light. The Pacific Cycle Reach DC takes the hectic out of your fast-paced day.
Pacific Cycle is a Taiwanese manufacturer and supplier of frames to European brands. The Reach DC is a light, compact bike, available in a 20"-frame as a normal bike, or as a folding bike. The narrow-tire wheels, unusual front suspension and shock absorber at the back give this small pedelec a racy and trendy look. Unfortunately, the suspension elements are more for the looks than for improving the ride. Without them the Pacific Cycle Reach DC would have been even lighter than its already light 17.4 kg. With Tektro v-brakes and a Shimano Alivio gearshift, the components of the Reach DC aren’t really of premium quality, but experience proved them to be durable and functional.
frame, it makes a stout impression. The Pacific Cycle has a bottom bracket motor, with a torque sensor which is quite well tuned. Unfortunately, the otherwise good motor lacks some driving force. Our test riders judged the support of the motor satisfactory, especially due to the bike’s outstanding road-running characteristics. At 42 km the Reach DC’s range lied in the midfield of bikes tested. The battery weighs 1.7 kg, which is very light for its 216 Wh capacity and quite satisfactory. The charge status is indicated on the battery, while the display unit on the handlebar is for switching the support on, and for selecting between the 3 support levels.
Our test drivers liked the direct riding charThe compact construction and 20" wheels acteristics of the Pacific Cycle Reach DC. In citmake this bike very agile, but smooth-running ies and in combination with public transport, on the straight. Thanks to the small Diamant the Pacific Cycle Reach DC is a good choice. The 122 ExtraEnergy.org
owner will have to equip it with lights and mudguards, before he takes it into the rain, or on night-rides. All in all, the Pacific Cycle Reach DC managed a c-factor of 7 in the group Mixed Mobility and got a test seal “Good”.
Pros and Cons + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support limit + Very light + – No lights, mudguards – Non-functioning suspension – Frame not stable enough – Selecting support levels not intuitive – Battery doesn’t click in; must be locked separately
city – Mixed Mobility Pedelec pedelec
Pacific Cycles · IF Reach City DC
Measured values Performance on tour Range 41.7 km 78,0 Average speed 23.5 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.95 1,43 Performance on hill Range 17.6 km 26,1 Average speed 17.2 km/h 22,2 Support factor 0.89 1,8
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
17,2 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64 0
Performance on city Range 25.8 km 40,1 Average speed 14.6 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.75 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
17.4 kg 17,4 1.7 kg 1,1
132 W
16,3 12,5
152 W
170 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.0 3.2 2.5 2.3 1.5 1.3 1.5 2.7 2.2 2.0 2.3 2.2 2.7 2.1
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 119 kg Motor 250 W Pacific Cycle bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 216 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Frame 20" Aluminum 7005, hand-welded Size 43 cm Uni-size Fork Pacific Trailing Link suspension fork Transmission Shimano Alivio 8-gear chain transmission, switch lever
Pacific Cycles Inc. 236 Hsia Chuan Tze · 32744 Hsin Wu Taiwan
Brakes f/r Tektro RX3 v-brakes Wheels f/r Alex AL-VP15F f Formula FM-21 r Chosen Tires Enova IA2205, 28-451 Lights none, no dynamo Extras 3 support levels, rear-end suspension, Pacific 2-leg stand Price Vehicle 1,900 € Price Replacement battery 390 €
Telephone 0088 634 86 12 31 Fax –
E-mail info@pacific-cycles.com Web www.pacific-cycles.com
Left The EZ bottom bracket motor from Taiwan: finally on the market, after many years of looking at it on trade fairs only. The battery is not entirely user-secure, since it doesn’t click in automatically and is only secured against falling out once it has been locked in. · Right The operator interface of the EZ motor on the handlebar is the smallest on the market and only has two LED lights and two buttons. Simple and effective, although not altogether self-explanatory. ExtraEnergy.org 123
Comfort – City Comfort
City Comfort Urban and trendy, but comfortable
This product group must carry the word “comfort” next to “city”, because being mobile in the fast-paced everyday of the city is not enough – it must also happen comfortably. Good features, suspension and ease of use are minimum requirements for getting into this product group. Five of the 10 bikes in this group were comfortable enough to get a test seal “Very Good”. The remaining 5 were awarded “Good” seals.
comfortable features, intuitive operation and good suspension. Apart from a reliable motor and removable battery, the minimum equipment includes mudguards, traffic-safe lights, a stand and carrier. The look must appeal and the design must satisfy the taste of the modern city dweller. When the rider arrives at the office without sweating and full of zip, the City Comfort pedelec has accomplished its main task. At the end of the working day, the office worker can pedal straight home and The City Comfort pedelec is the ideal vehicle for getting through your give the fitness center a miss. everyday comfortably. Irrespective of whether you cycle to work, school, university, have a night out on the town, or go shopping in the city, and surrounding suburbs – this electric vehicle takes its rider where it wants to go comfortably. And without traffic jams, or parking problems. These bikes offer riding enjoyment with convenient saddles, 124 ExtraEnergy.org
Comfort – City Comfort
Test winner City Comfort
test seal
47 pedelecs in test
Flyer · X-Serie Street
ocoomfdort g y it y c r r e Vset winn
2010 te
July
The Street version of the Flyer X-Series entered the test with full suspension and lots of stamina. The bike was a worthy opponent in no less than 5 product groups, in the end winning two groups. In the group City Comfort the Flyer X-Series ended way ahead of the pack, with its harmonious frame, premium components and new, strong Panasonic motor. Long live the King of Comfort!
All vehicles in this product category daum electronic · ergo_bike pedelec........... 126 Flyer · c9 premium........................................ 128 Flyer · i:SY Street........................................... 130 Flyer · X-Serie MTB.........................................132 Sachs · Electra 3............................................ 134 Ultra Motor · A2B Hybrid........................... 136 Kalkhoff · Agattu XXL Pedelec C................... 144 Kettler · Layana Hybritec...............................90 Vital Bike · Tour Y........................................ 110
ExtraEnergy.org 125
Comfort – City Comfort
daum electronic · ergo bike pedelec TrekkingH
TesT seal
Product group City Comfort Pedelec C-factor 6 Easy Pedelec C-factor 5 Wellness Pedelec C-factor 5
47
pedelecs in test
t fo r com oy cioty d g r o g
2010 c at
e
July
Conclusion With its multi-functional display and related functions, the daum pedelec is way ahead of the competition and a long way down the road to the future of electric cycling.
The basic component of this bicycle is a stable, matt-black aluminum frame. The large battery box on the luggage carrier immediately catches the eye. The good spring saddle and Suntour suspension fork make the daum pedelec an enjoyably ride. The relatively high weight and slight tail-heaviness (due to the battery) reduce the vehicle’s portability. The components are fundamentally solid and include a Shimano Nexus 8-speed premium hub gearshift, Tektro v-brakes and the good Busch und Müller Lumotec IQ Fly lighting system.
and Wellness Pedelec, where it got a c-factor of 5. Unfortunately, our evaluation doesn’t yet provide for the variety of functions included in the display unit, which was so good, we simply had to award the vehicle a “Very Good” test seal.
The large display on the daum pedelec is really interesting: the unit showcases the wide-ranging experience of the ergometer manufacturer of Fürth, Germany. Apart from the normal readings, such as distance, speed and the battery charge status, this unit offers unique functions. For instance, the GPS function with navigation and integrated mobile internet access can be used to download routes in the vicinity and then to navigate to the destination. Cycled routes can later be retraced on Google Earth and published on the internet platform GPSies. The GPS guards the bike against thieves and the owner can request the actual position of his pedelec by SMS at all times. Additionally, the motor can be locked by entering a PIN. The display unit collects data on the trip, which is saved on a SD card for later analyzing on the desktop computer. The altimeter delivers a clear distance profile that may be complemented with personal performance data (eg. pedal performance, pulse rate) and bicycle specifics (eg. energy input and other bicycle data). The wide range of functions makes the daum pedelec a pioneer and shows what is possible with hybrid bicycles. The support level of the daum motor is set by pushing a button on the lefthand side of the handlebar. The relatively bad values measured for ease of use, probably have to do with the overwhelming range of options on the display unit: it might have grabbed the attention of the test drivers, making them overlook this easy-to-use push button. The quiet, well-protected bottom bracket motor with 250 watt supports powerfully after smoothly activating the motor. Our test riders were impressed by the road handling of the bike. The pedelec measured a very long range with its rather large 350-Wh battery, namely 56 km on the tour sub-section of the test track. Despite strong competition, the daum pedelec notched up a c-factor of 6 in the group City Comfort and was awarded a test seal “Good”. In addition, the daum pedelec was placed very well in the groups Easy Pedelec 126 ExtraEnergy.org
Pros and Cons + Strong support on the hill + Long range on tour and in the city + Power sensor activates motor smoothly + Motor cuts out gently at upper support limit + GPS functions + Theft protection + – Large display with countless functions – Heavy
Comfort – City Comfort
daum electronic · ergo bike pedelec TrekkingH
Measured values Performance on tour Range 56.5 km 78,0 Average speed 24.7 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.11 1,43 Performance on hill Range 22.9 km 26,1 Average speed 20.5 km/h 22,2 Support factor 1.27 1,8 Performance on city Range 33.5 km 40,1 Average speed 16.0 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.88 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
27.8 kg 17,4 3.4 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
20,5 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
161 W
189 W 259 W
16,3 Tretleistung
12,5 0,61
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.8 3.2 2.4 3.0 3.1 2.0 2.3 2.7 2.2 2.7 2.3 3.5 2.0 3.0
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 125 kg Motor 250 W Daum middle motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 352 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 28" Aluminum 6061 Size F 44/52 cm M sporty 44/52 cm, normal 48/56 cm Fork Suntour NEX suspension fork Transmission Shimano Nexus 8-gear Premium hub gearshift, turn handle Brakes f/r Tektro SU11 3-finger v-brake Wheels f/r Rigida ZAC 2000, alu hollow chamber rims f Shimano 3N80 hub dyn. r Shimano Nexus 8-gear Premium hub
daum electronic GmbH Flugplatz Straße 100 · 90768 Fürth
Telephone 0911 97 53 60 Fax 0911 975 36 97
Tires Schwalbe Marathon Cross 40-622, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights f B&M Lumotec IQ Fly Senso Plus r B&M Top Light Flat Plus, hub dynamo Shimano 3N80 Extras Multi-functional LCD display, (3.7", GSM, GPS) navigation function, 3 support levels, take-off assistance to 6 km/h, spring-supported saddle Humpert SP 5.0, Selle Royal Gel saddle, angle-adj. front stem, ergon. handle grips Price Vehicle 2,699 € Price Replacement battery 448 €
E-mail info@daum-electronic.de Web www.daum-electronic.de
Left The huge battery case on the luggage carrier houses a standard battery of AEE Energy. It is a solution which, unfortunately, does not fit to the otherwise premium quality pedelec. · Right Optically, opinions differ about the big display. Functionally, it offers all the heart desires. It leads the way with all its functions. It takes a short while to get used to the operation and then it is simple and comfortable to use. Most functions can be used with the left thumb. A few special functions, such as the big wheel for navigating quickly through the different levels of software, are positioned directly next to the Fulldot display.
ExtraEnergy.org 127
Comfort – City Comfort pedelec
Flyer · C9 Premium TesT seal
47
pedelecs in test
t fo r com oy cioty d g r o g
2010
Product group City Comfort Pedelec C-factor 6
c at
e
July
Easy Pedelec C-factor 6 Conclusion Offers premium comfort and good support. The Flyer C9 fits seamlessly in Biketec’s range of pedelecs.
The Flyer C9 Premium is blessed with all the characteristics the Swiss manufacturer Biketec is known for. The expert recognizes the Flyer from a distance by its wide, silver aluminum frame with low step-thru, and its rectangular battery. High-quality workmanship and the selection of components ensure the vehicle delivers what it promises. With the hydraulic Magura HS33 rim brakes, stable Alex rims, Busch und Müller Fly IQ headlight and Suntour suspension fork the vehicle is extremely well fitted out. Not to forget about the comfortable Bracer spring support, wide saddle and inviting ergonomically curved handlebar. Together the fittings guarantee a premium riding experience. The bicycle can easily be adjusted to fit individual needs with a so-called speed lifter and an angle-adjustable front stem. But, the curved, bulky frame does not offer a good gripping position for carrying the relatively light pedelec (25 kg) over obstacles, or up a flight of stairs. Once the rider realizes the Shimano Alfine hub gearshift, used in combination with this motor, only partially allows gears to be shifted under stress, and holds back briefly to change gears, he hardly experiences
128 ExtraEnergy.org
any difficulties. The activation of the motor and support seem to have improved yet again on this year’s Flyer collection. The s-factor of the test bike was noticeably better at higher speeds, without pulling the range down. Values such as 41 km on the tour sub-section guarantee lots of riding fun. The rider is kept up to date with all the important riding parameters by the clearly laid out Panasonic LCD display. Thanks to the robust, built-to-last frame, high adjustability and comfort it offers, this Flyer model (like many others) is very popular with customers and pedelec rental stations. Thanks to these characteristics, the Flyer C9 Premium received the test seal “Good“ with a c-factor 6 in the highly competitive product groups Easy and City Comfort.
Pros and Cons + Strong support on tour sub-section + Long range in city traffic + Power sensor activates gently + Motor cuts out smoothly + – Big display with many functions – High price
Comfort – City Comfort pedelec
Flyer · C9 Premium
Measured values Performance on tour 41.2 km 78,0 Range 25.7 km/h 27,7 Average speed 0.84 1,43 Support factor Performance on hill 19.5 km 26,1 Range 19.9 km/h 22,2 Average speed 0.94 1,8 Support factor
Efficiency triangle 24,2 19,6
Geschwindigkeit 19,9 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64 0
Performance on city 28.2 km 40,1 Range 14.4 km/h 17,6 Average speed 0.86 1,30 Support factor
Weight Vehicle Battery
25.4 kg 17,4 2.4 kg 1,1
158 W
170 W
16,3 12,5
221 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.0 2.2 1.9 2.7 4.0 3.0 1.9 1.6 1.8 2.4 1.5 1.8 1.9 2.2
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 26" Aluminum Sizes F 41/45/50/55 cm M 45/50/55/60 cm Fork SR Suntour NCX suspension fork with LockOut Transmission Shimano Alfine 8-gear hub transmission, turn handle Brakes f/r hydraulic rim brakes Magura HS33 Wheels f/r AlexRims XT19 f Shimano r Shimano Alfine hub transmission
Biketec AG Schwende 1 · 4950 Huttwill Switzerland
Tires Schwalbe Marathon Plus 47-559, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights f B&M LED Fly IQ-TEC r B&M Top Light Flat, own energy source Extras Multifunctional LCD illuminated display, 3 support levels, take-off assistance to 6 km/h, spring-supported saddle Bracer Comp, height-adj. sidestand, angle-adjustable front stem, Speedlifter Twist, ergon. handle grips, Pletscher luggage carrier Rahmenschloss Price Vehicle 2.990 € Price Replacement battery 495 €
Telephone 0041 629 59 55 55 Fax 0041 629 59 55 66
E-mail info@flyer.ch Web www.flyer.ch
Left Throughout premium quality fittings. The U-lock is a beautiful feature, which is opened with the same key as the battery. · Right The take-off assistance makes a driver’s license compulsory for riders born before 1964, even though the pedelec is legally still a bicycle. The thumb switch is mounted less optimally..
ExtraEnergy.org 129
Comfort – City Comfort S-Pedelec
Flyer · i:SY Street test seal
47
Product group City Comfort S-Pedelec C-factor 8 Easy S-Pedelec C-factor 7
pedelecs in test
ocomofodrt g y y t i r Vaetegory c
2010 c
July
Wellness S-Pedelec C-factor 6 Conclusion To see the i:SY Street, is to want it; to ride it, is to say “without a doubt”!
Already the unusual frame design and compact size of this Biketec Fly- product group City Comfort. The s-pedelec also satisfies the demands of er bicycle draw attention. When onlookers also see the number plate of the groups Easy Pedelec and Wellness Pedelec and received the test seal the registered i:SY Street (registered as s-pedelec) and Panasonic motor, “Good” for both these groups. they find it hard to keep their curiosity (and desire) in check. Pros and Cons The compact design provides agility and + Power sensor activates motor gently smooth road-running. The small 20" wheels + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support limit help with the acceleration, and the wide + – Big display unit with many functions Schwalbe Big Apple tires add comfort. Oth + – Must be insured er features adding to comfort are the special – High price ly fitted SR Suntour saddle with spring support and upright sitting position. Included in the components of the Flyer i:SY Street tested by ExtraEnergy, were the SRAM dual drive gear system, hydraulic Magura HS 33 rim brakes and Busch und Müller Cyo-Tec lights. Thanks to the long saddle post and speed lifter system, the i:SY can be adjusted to suit nearly any body size. (The i:SY is available in one frame size only.) Thanks to a weight of 23 kg and good grips positions, the bike can be carried up a few steps easily. The 250 W Panasonic motor of the i:SY provides good acceleration and easy riding enjoyment. The latter brought big smiles to the faces of the test riders. The i:SY is equipped with a take-off assistance, which supports electrically up to 20 km/h. Those who want to go faster, can take the bike to top speeds of 35 km/h (and even higher) by pedaling. Had our test riders pedaled at a bit higher pedal frequency (85), than the normal frequency (60), even better road values would have been measured, because Flyer had adjusted the i:SY to accommodate more aggressive riding and optimum motor efficiency. For the agility, good acceleration and high speeds attainable with a comfortable sitting position, the Flyer i:SY Street was awarded the test seal “Very Good” with a c-factor 8 in the 130 ExtraEnergy.org
Comfort – City Comfort S-Pedelec
Flyer · i:SY Street
Measured values Performance on tour Range 42.5 km 58,8 Average speed 24.8 km/h 34,9 Support factor 1.11 2,94 Performance on hill Range 21.5 km 37,5 Average speed 18.5 km/h 30,4 Support factor 1.02 1,72
Efficiency triangle 24,6 24,8 Geschwindigkeit
0,67
18,5 km/h
14,9 18,5 0,84 0
Performance on city Range 26.5 km 51,0 Average speed 16.2 km/h 17,8 Support factor 0.82 1,25
Weight Vehicle Battery
23.0 kg 18,1 2.4 kg 2,4
17,6
151 W 158 W 183 W
15,6
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
0,63
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.7 1.6 1.7 2.8 2.4 2.2 2.1 1.8 2.0 2.4 1.8 2.o 2.1 2.8
37,3 8,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 250 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 20" Aluminum Size 45 cm Uni-size Fork Aluminum Starr fork Transmission Sram DualDrive 24-gear, turn handle & switch lever Brakes f/r hydraulic rim brakes Magura HS33 Wheels f/r Alexrims DM 22 f Shimano r Sram Dualdrive hub transmis.
Biketec AG Schwende 1 · 4950 Huttwill Switzerland
Tires Schwalbe Big Apple, 55-406, reflector stripes Lights f B&M LED Cyo IQ-TEC r B&M LED Toplight Flat, own power source Extras Multifunctional, illuminated LCD display, 3 support levels, take-off assistance to 20 km/h, spring-supported saddle SR Suntour, height-adjustable sidestand, Speedlifter Twist, ergon. handle grips, alu luggage carrier, frame lock, sport motor with optimum effectiveness at 85 revolutions Price Vehicle 3.290 € Price Replacement battery 495 €
Telephone 0041 629 59 55 55 Fax 0041 629 59 55 66
E-mail info@flyer.ch Web www.flyer.ch
Left Everything is attached and everything is inside. With the Flyer i:sy one doesn’t know where to start listing all the quality and functional components! · Right One gets used to all the beautiful features quite quickly: the Speedlifter with turn function making possible to turn the handlebar parallel to the frame to make it even thinner without a tool. Very handy when transporting, or parking the bike in a spot with little space. ExtraEnergy.org 131
Comfort – City Comfort S-Pedelec
Flyer · X-Serie Street
Product group City Comfort S-Pedelec C-factor 10 Sport S-Pedelec C-factor 10 Wellness S-Pedelec C-factor 9 Easy S-Pedelec C-factor 6
test seal
47
pedelecs in test
ooomfdort g y ty c i c r Vset winner
2010 te
July
Business S-Pedelec C-factor 5 Conclusion There is nothing missing on this vehicle with its luxury components on all levels. The extra power provided by Panasonic, full suspension, attractive design and a superior riding experience turn every Flyer X-Series rider into a king of the road.
Pros and Cons + Strong support on tour sub-section + Long range in city traffic + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly + – Big display with many functions + – Must be insured – High price
The Flyer X-Series is the “blue blood” of pedelecs currently on the market. The X-Flyer is characterized by its wide handlebars with short “horns” on both ends. The X-Flyer’s premium quality equipment and wide handlebar make steering easy and provide a superior all-round riding experience. The Street model tested was fully equipped, with Shimano XT wheels, hydraulic disc brakes and gear system. The Rockshox Recon suspension in front and Ario rear wheel suspension (both SRAM products) complete the top-notch product. The test model was fitted with wide Schwalbe Marathon tires intended for road use, but thanks to the great suspension it was comfortable on all terrains. The 4-hinge rear suspension of the frame and the new wide 390 Wh battery on top of the new 300 W Panasonic motor underline the pedelec’s luxurious character. The 390 Wh battery of the tested X-Flyer provided 130 Wh more power than the 260 Wh batteries normally fitted to Panasonic systems. 132 ExtraEnergy.org
The stronger battery is considerably wider, so the crank arms had to be fitted slightly wider. On bikes with normal crank arm distances, the crank would collide with the bigger battery. Since X-Flyer bikes take the conventional, smaller batteries, the 390 Wh battery can, unfortunately, not easily be used on other bicycles equipped with Panasonic motors. The combination of a stronger motor with stronger battery proved to be very successful in the tested X-Series. The acceleration and support provided by the Panasonic motor are unusual and push the enjoyment factor of this established motor up several notches. The quite high price of this pedelec can be overlooked, since ExtraEnergy mainly tests performance – which is more than convincing on this vehicle. The Flyer X-Series Street fits into 5 product groups and won two of them, namely the groups City Comfort and Sport.
Comfort – City Comfort S-Pedelec
Flyer · X-Serie Street
Measured values Performance on tour 50.5 km 58,8 Range 27.7 km/h 34,9 Average speed 1.27 2,94 Support factor Performance on hill 29.0 km 37,5 Range 22.4 km/h 30,4 Average speed 1.10 1,72 Support factor Performance on city 36.2 km 51,0 Range 16.8 km/h 17,8 Average speed 0.82 1,25 Support factor
Weight Vehicle Battery
25.8 kg 18,1 3.9 kg 2,4
Efficiency triangle 24,6 Geschwindigkeit
24,8
22,4 km/h
0,67
14,9 18,5 0,84
0
173 W
17,6
190 W 244 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
15,6 0,63
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.2 1.9 1.3 2.8 3.5 2.5 2.0 1.7 1.5 2.8 1.9 1.6 1.5 2.2
37,3 8,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 300 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 390 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 26" Aluminum Size M 45.5/50/55 cm Fork RockShox Recon suspension fork Transmission Shimano XT 9-gear chain transmission, Rapidfire Brakes f/r hydraulic disc brakes Shimano XT Wheels f/r Shimano XT System wheel set
Biketec AG Schwende 1 · 4950 Huttwill Switzerland
Tires Schwalbe Marathon Extreme, 50-559 Lights f B&M LED Cyo IQ-TEC r B&M LED Toplight Flat, own energy source Extras Multifunctional, illuminated LCD display, 3 support levels, take-off support to 20 km/h, RockShox Ario rear wheel absorber, height-adjustable sidestand, ergon. handle grips, alu luggage carrier, pedals with click system, frame lock Price Vehicle 4,690 € Price Replacement battery 795 €
Telephone 0041 629 59 55 55 Fax 0041 629 59 55 66
€
E-mail info@flyer.ch Web www.flyer.ch
Left The battery looks very bulky, but delivers a lot of energy. Unfortunately, the battery is not compatible with other pedelecs with Panasonic motors, due to the battery’s width. Right The X Flyer principle is “only the best of everything”. No-one tried to keep costs down here. Nice that there is a manufacturer like Biketec with the confidence to do this.
ExtraEnergy.org 133
Comfort – City Comfort S-Pedelec
Sachs · Electra 3
Product group City Comfort S-Pedelec C-factor 9 Business S-Pedelec C-factor 5 Wellness S-Pedelec C-factor 5
test seal
47
pedelecs in test
ocomofodrt g y y t i r Vaetegory c
2010 c
July
Conclusion The Sachs Electra 3 is a so-called fast pedelec (s-pedelec) and is something like the electrified successor of the timehonored Saxonette.
Visually, the Electra 3 appeals to customers who, until now, have cycled on a Saxonette, but would like to get around faster. It has a low step-thru frame, enclosed chain box and wide saddle. Importantly, it supports extremely powerfully. The Sachs Elektra reaches high speeds and would thus have been served better by a handlebar which does not arch backward. The Sachs Electra 3 is fitted with a 350 W Bafang front hub motor. The SFM designers must have been intent on making the most of the new vehicle’s options, because they gave it 3 power levels, to be selected on a small control unit. Firstly, one can ride at speeds below 20 km/h without pedaling. In this mode, one accelerates by turning the handle grip. Select the next level (so-called pedelec mode), and the Electra
only supports when the rider pedals. The accelerator throttle is non-active. The third level is a combination of the first two: the rider can use the accelerator and pedals up to 20 km/h, but above 20 km/h the pedelec will only support pedaling as required by the legislator. Whichever level you choose, you’ll easily go over 20 km/h with the Sachs Electra 3 – the bicycle accelerates with massive support. The power sensor, located between the bottom bracket and the chain ring, measures the rider’s energy input by monitoring how two springs bend. This softens the pedaling action, which is something the rider has to get used to. Beyond 25 km/h the power contribution of the motor is better controlled. An average speed of 30 km/h on the tour sub-section made the Sachs Electra one of the fastest pedelecs in the test. The support factors achieved on all sub-sections were also among the highest in the test. Thanks to the big 360 Wh battery the range was good (values measured around 30 km), despite the strong motor support. Unfortunately, the voltage-based battery indicator on the handlebar is inaccurate. To avoid cycling without motor support on this heavy (29.9 kg), hard-steering pedelec, the rider should keep an eye on the charge meter hidden on the battery of the Sachs Electra 3. On the road, the luggage carrier with integrated battery rattles slightly. Tighten up all screws every now and then, and you’ll definitely enjoy the Sachs Electra 3. Also, because the price of less than 1,800 € is unbeatable for a s-pedelec. Thanks to the front fork suspension and spring-support saddle at the back, the Sachs Electra 3 is a full-blooded City Comfort pedelec. It earned a test seal “Very Good” with its c-factor of 8 in the group City Comfort.
Pros and Cons + Strong support in all riding situations + Pedelec- and e-bike mode, or combination of both + High load capacity + Enclosed chain box + – Back-pedal brake + – Must be insured – Inaccurate battery indicator on handlebar – Heavy – Soft pedal feeling – Difficult to ride without motor support 134 ExtraEnergy.org
Comfort – City Comfort S-Pedelec
Sachs · Electra 3
Measured values Performance on tour Range 33.8 km 58,8 Average speed 29.9 km/h 34,9 Support factor 2.20 2,94 Performance on hill Range 18.1 km 37,5 Average speed 24.6 km/h 30,4 Support factor 1.59 1,72
Efficiency triangle 24,6
Geschwindigkeit
24,8
24,6 km/h
0,67
14,9 18,5 0,84
0
Performance on city Range 19.8 km 51,0 Average speed 16.6 km/h 17,8 Support factor 1.25 1,25
141 W 222 W
17,6 15,6
396 W
Tretleistung
0,63
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
– – – – – – – – – – – – – –
nicht teilgenommen
Weight Vehicle Battery
29.9 kg 18,1 3.5 kg 2,4
37,3 8,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 150 kg Motor 350 W Bafang front hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 360 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Frame 28" Aluminum Size F 44 cm Fork Suntour CR8 V suspension fork Transmission Shimano Nexus 7-gear hub transmission, turn handle Brakes f/r Tektro v-brakes r Backpedal brake Wheels f/r Alu hollow chamber rims f front hub motor
SFM GmbH Strawinskystraße 27 b · 90455 Nürnberg
Telephone 09 11 42 31 40 Fax 09 11 423 13 32
r Shimano Nexus hub transmission Tires CST Traveller 47-622, reflector stripes & flat protection Lights f Spanninga Micro FF LED r Spanninga Plateo, own energy source Extras 2 support levels, e-bike function, acceleration grip, take-off assistance to 20 km/h, spring-supported saddle KS, 2-leg stand, angle-adjustable front stem, ergon. handle grips, alu luggage carrier, speedometer, enclosed chain case, e-bike- or pedelec function can be selected Price Vehicle 1,789 € Price Replacement battery 534 € E-mail info@sfm-bikes.de Web www.sfm-bikes.de
Left Everything is possible – press the button to select between e-bike and pedelec modus, or both. · Right There are several springs in the chromed chain protector which measures the power used when pedalling. The somewhat soft pedal-action needs a bit getting used to.
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Comfort – City Comfort Pedelec
Ultramotor · A2B Hybrid
Product group City Comfort Pedelec C-factor 8
test seal
47
pedelecs in test
ocomofodrt g y y t i r Vaetegory c
Tour Pedelec C-factor 6
2010 c
Wellness Pedelec C-factor 6
July
Easy Pedelec C-factor 5 Conclusion The Hybrid in the A2B range of Ultra Motor is an exciting concept, combining different types of vehicles. Not only does it bring its rider from point A to B, but it also turns the trip into a pleasant, modern experience. Well done!
One look at the matt-black, bulky frame with lifetime warranty and you know this pedelec is like no other. The wide tires remind of a small motorbike, while their size reminds of a BMX bike. The rider sits relatively high and comfortably – and a little bit like on a scooter - on the stretched, padded saddle. The wide handlebar, well-working spring-supported saddle and sensitive Suntour suspension fork provide a level of riding comfort, which cannot be compared to a conventional bicycle. The SRAM 3.0 chain gearshift and convincing Avid disk brakes operate well. Visually, everything matches except for the bracket used to
mount the display unit. It seems to be a temporary solution. Thanks to the solid, comfortable design, the rider only notices the high average speeds when he slips past other cyclists, or repeatedly leads the pack at traffic light take-offs. The A2B Hybrid is fitted with crank arms and thus only supports when the rider pedals – as pedelecs do. The power sensor-controlled motor starts from the first move of the pedal and is set very well. Depending on the support mode, the rear wheel hub motor designed by Ultra Motor produces harmonious,
but strong support. During acceleration, light vibrating and a low humming sound tell the rider the motor is supporting. The initial support is very strong. The performance on the hills and on the tour sub-section convinced. The A2B Hybrid gives a very pleasant, relaxing ride. Due to the big battery (approx. 6 kg) the vehicle is tail-heavy, which might result in tailswinging during fast descents - especially with lightweight riders. According to Ultra Motor, a lighter battery (available soon) will solve the problem. The good balance of the bicycle is reflected in the fact that it was ranked well in 4 different product groups. The pedelec satisfied the tough demand made on a tour bike and received a c-factor of 6 in the product group Tour Pedelec. The A2B Hybrid achieved its best result in the City Comfort group, where it earned a cfactor of 8 and was awarded the test seal “Very Good“.
Pros and Cons + Strong support on tour and at hills + Harmonious motorcontrol + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support limit – high weight – display mountin seems provisional – slight humming and vibrating sounds of the motor if accelerated from low speeds – not easy to drive without motor support
136 ExtraEnergy.org
Comfort – City Comfort Pedelec
Ultramotor · A2B Hybrid
Measured values Performance on tour Range 46.5 km 78,0 Average speed 27.7 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.35 1,43 Performance on hill Range 17.1 km 26,1 Average speed 21.5 km/h 22,2 Support factor 1.53 1,8
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
21,5 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64 0
Performance on city Range 22.6 km 40,1 Average speed 16.2 km/h 17,6 Support factor 1.02 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
30.7 kg 17,4 5.9 kg 1,1
141 W 212 W
16,3
333 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
4.3 3.8 4.3 4.8 4.6 3.9 3.2 2.9 2.1 3.1 2.7 2.9 2.0 1.6
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 140 kg Motor 250 W Ultramotor rear hub motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 324 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 26" Aluminum Size 51 cm Uni-size Fork Suntour SF9-XCR suspension fork Transmission Sram 3.0 7-gear chain transmission, turn handle Brakes f/r hydraulic disc brake Magura Julie HP
Ultra Motor GmbH Am Technologiepark 12 · 82229 Seefeld
Wheels f/r Alex Global Technology rims f Shimano hub dynamo r Ultra Motor rear hub motor Tires Maxxis M2013 50-559, reflector stripes Lights f Basta Pilot Halogen r B&M Seculight, Shimano hub dynamo Extras Multifunct. LCD display, 3 support levels, spring-supported saddle, height-adjust. sidestand, angle-adjustable front stem, optional A2B accessories (eg. sidebags & basket) Price Vehicle 2,499 € Price Replacement battery 499 €
Telephone 08152 396 45 12 Fax 08152 396 45 29
E-mail info@ultramotor.com Web www.ultramotor.com
Left Seems like a temporary solution - the bike computer attached with a very obscure and wobbly clamp. · Right The powerful hub motor, which looks a little over-sized. It houses the TMM4 sensor of the Dutch firm IdBike supports the bike very cleverly in direct relation to the applied muscle power, thanks to its outstanding electronic tuning.
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Comfort – Classic
Classic · timeless quality
Classic Pedelecs, commonly known as Dutch bikes, have been favorites in the non-electrical segment for a long time. As a pedelec group, they stand for premium quality cruisers with very specific characteristics, such as an enclosed chain case and a (comfortable) luggage carrier. In this test only one pedelec met all the requirements of this product group – and made the test team long for more. The group Classic Pedelecs can be summarized in three words: timeless, premium, excellent. The upright and comfortable sitting position allows comfortable cruising, even against strong headwinds. Visually, the Classic pedelec resembles the bicycle closely. It is built to last a lifetime, with robust quality components. An enclosed chain case,
138 ExtraEnergy.org
fenders, good lights, strong luggage carrier and solid stand belong to the basic equipment. Apart from running smoothly, it provides moderate, constant support and has an extended range. In contrast to the Easy Pedelec, high quality is an absolute prerequisite for the Classic Pedelec. Consequently, the purchase price is also high. But, vehicles in this group last (nearly) a lifetime.
Comfort – Classic
Test winner classic
test seal
47
pedelecs in test
d ger colaossic y r n Vteest win
Magna Marque · Styriette
2010 July
Well-known, but different. The Styriette won the group Classic Pedelec for the second time running. In the March 2010 test this group was still called Dutch Pedelecs. In the last test the name changed, but the requirements remained unchanged. The premium components and long-lasting design, such as enclosed chain case, give the Styriette a robust appearance. The solid road performance and reliable, very strong motor round the picture off. Timeless design, performance and quality are convincing factors, regardless of the label.
All vehicles in the product category Magna Marque · Styriette.......................... 140
ExtraEnergy.org 139
Comfort – Classic pedelec
Magna Marque · Styriette test seal
Product group Classic Pedelec C-factor 10
47
pedelecs in test
d ger colaossic y r Vteest winn
2010
Tour Pedelec C-factor 10
July
Wellness Pedelec C-factor 7 Conclusion The Styriette hails from the province Styria in Austria and is robust and powerful. The running characteristics, motor power, long-lasting and premium quality components were all so convincing that the Styriette won the group Classic Pedelec with a c-factor of 10.
A light-weight motorcycle from the year 1938 was re-built as a pedelec in 2010. The concept of the Styriette was inspired by a product made in 1938 by the Steyr-Daimler-Puch Werke. The product was a light motorcycle – one could call it a bicycle with an internal combustion engine. Today the Styriette is a powerful pedelec with a BionX motor.
premium quality. Wound leather grips and leather saddle by Brooks, Schwalbe “Fat Frank” tyres and the Alu Cruiser handlebar remind of the light motorcycles of the 1930s. Another pleasing detail is the parallelogram fork, which was typical for the light motorcycles of those days.
Today voltage and watt are important – not horsepower. In the place of Optically, the new Styriette looks a lot like the original design. It swings cylinder capacity, the new generation Styriette has the power of the BionX between a light motorcycle and a classical Dutch bicycle, makes a classy IGH3TM motor. Three gears might sound like a few, but the 3-gear hub inappearance. In fact, it is all but not empty promises. The parts are of tegrated in the motor is perfectly sufficient. At take-off the motor accelerates the bike to over 20 km/h in no time and with unbelievable power. Since he must pedal along, the rider feels he is contributing to the exhilarating acceleration. Gears do not even have to be changed against the hill - the motor practically carries him to the top. The recuperation function built into all BionX systems recovers energy when the brakes are used on downhills. Optically, the Styriette from Styria, with its robust appearance and details such as enclosed chain case, meets all the criteria of a Classic Pedelec. And it won this group with its premium quality and powerful motor. The Styriette also got a “Very Good” in the product group Tour. With a c-factor of 7 it was given a seal “Good” in the group Wellness Pedelec. The fact that this pedelec couldn’t collect points at the ergonomic test makes this result even more remarkable. (The prototype arrived too late and missed the ergonomic test last October. It ended in first place on the measured values alone.)
Pros and Cons + Strong support on tour section and against the hills + Power sensor activates motor gently + High extra load capacity + Enclosed chain case + 3-gear hub gearshift integrated in motor + Recuperation function – Motor cut-out at upper support limit noticeable – High price
140 ExtraEnergy.org
Comfort – Classic pedelec
Magna Marque · Styriette
Measured values Performance on tour Range 44.5 km 78,0 Average speed 25.2 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.34 1,43 Performance on hill 18.7 km 26,1 Range 22.0 km/h 22,2 Average speed Support factor 1.63 1,8
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6 0,63
22.0 km/h
12,1 15,6 0,64 0
Performance on city 21.1 km 40,1 Range 16.5 km/h 17,6 Average speed Support factor 1.14 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
26,8 kg 17,4 3,8 kg 1,1
116W 189 W
16,3 12,5
347 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.0 2.7 2.5 3.4 3.9 3.3 2.6 2.0 1.7 3.4 1.7 2.3 2.1 1.9
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 140 kg Motor 250 W BionX PL250HT IGH3TM rear wheel hub motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 355 Wh Li-ion battery Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 28" Aluminum frame, cables run inside Size Uni-sex Fork Parallelogram fork Styriette with X-Fusin Glyde R shocks Transmission In rear wheel motor-integrated 3-gear hub Brakes Magura Julie Disc
Magna Marque Europe GmbH Südtirolerplatz 3 · 8160 Weiz Austria
Wheels Alu hollow chamber f Discnabe r BionX PL250HT IGH3TM Tires Schwalbe Fat Frank 60 × 559 Lights f BUMM Lumotec Retro r Spanniga Arcus, battery-fed Extras Hebie stand, Brooks leather grips, alu Cruiser handlebar, painted Styriette mudguards, Brooks saddle, enclosed chain Price Vehicle 3,490 € Price Replacement battery 890 €
Telephone 0043 31 72 68 17 81 20 Fax 0043 31 72 68 17 84 44
E-mail office.weiz@magnamarque.com Web www.styriette.at
Left Genial combination: 3-gear hub transmission, disc brakes and BionX hub motor in a single package. · Right The BionX battery is painted the same classic color as the frame black. Unfortunately, black draws heat in the sun and this can have a negative impact on the lifespan of the battery.
ExtraEnergy.org 141
Leisture – tour
Tour · Traveling with the bike
With the development of cycle routes, tour bikes became very popular in- and outside Europe and started attracting much attention in the media. But, only few bikes with the name “tour” in their names actually satisfy the demands made by touring. Especially important in this group, is the requirement that a Tour Pedelec should be able to carry an extra load of (at least) 110 kg. A number of so-called Tour Pedelecs failed the load capacity test. When a rider weighs around 80 kg, it should be possible to add luggage weighing up to 30 kg (eg. a tent, water, clothes, gas cooker and the like). In the test 6 pedelecs carried 110 kg over the full distance of the test. Three were awarded the test seal “Very Good” and three “Good”. Naturally, a Tour Pedelec is configured for cycle tours in the tourism sector and for leisure time activity. The electric bike help cyclists handle longer stages without over-exerting themselves. The Tour Pedelec
142 ExtraEnergy.org
reveals its advantages on the hill climb (almost effortless), has a comfortable sitting position and other comfortable fittings (which could even include full suspension). Pedelecs in this group are technically of premium quality, have very good lights, display the battery capacities accurately and have batteries with minimum ranges of 40 km. Thanks to the appropriate equipment, and a minimum extra loading capacity of 110 kg, the Tour Pedelec can be loaded with all needed luggage bags, water bottle, replacement battery and GPS navigation system. An optimal rain, wind and spray protection is possible in this group.
Leisture – tour
Test winner tour
test seal
47
Giant · Twist Express RS0
pedelecs in test
d gneroToour y r n i e V Tes T w
2010 July
The Giant Twist Express RS0 convinced on account of its perfectly adjusted motor, which saves the energy of both rider and battery with its efficiency. A loading capacity of 127 kg (17 kg over the minimum requirement of 110 kg), easy transport of a spare battery or charger and uncompromisingly sporty character made this pedelec the most popular bicycle in the group Tour, and the well-deserved winner of the group.
All vehicles in this product category Giant · Twist Express RS0............................. 144 Kalkhoff · Agattu XXL Pedelec C................... 146 Vitalbike · individual Sport Diamant........... 148 Sachs · Bikes Elo-Bike de luxe........................172 Magna Marque · Styriette.......................... 140 ave · Eagle........................................................76 Ultra Motor · A2B Hybrid............................ 136
ExtraEnergy.org 143
Leisture – tour pedelec
Giant · Twist Express RS0 test seal
Product group Tour Pedelec C-factor 10 Easy Pedelec C-factor 7
47
pedelecs in test
d gneroToour y r n VeTesT wi
2010 July
Conclusion It gives gentle, quiet support when needed. The winner of the Tour group scored with an excellent range, perfectly adjusted motor, sufficient extra loading capacity and a pleasant riding experience.
This bicycle is part of Giant’s new Express range of pedelecs. The Dia- For a long time Giant equipped its pedelecs with Sanyo motors. The Exmant frame is made of thick aluminum pipe. With its chic, matt-black press RS0 combines the market experience of Giant and Sanyo very well. The Sanyo motor is controlled smoothly and impresses with completefinish, it gives the bike a sporty and fresh look. ly resistance-free freewheeling. The support is gentle, but pleasantly The frame makes such a solid appearance for a practical reason: the au- noticeable. The rider can rely on the Giant to provide sufficient power thorized total weight of the Express RS0 of 150 kg is far above the av- whenever needed. Furthermore, the new power sensor functions well. erage. Take away the relatively low weight of the bike (23 kg) and you The motor immediately switches on when the pedal turns on take-off are left with an extra loading capacity of 127 kg. Due to the front wheel against the hill. No delay in support cut-out is noticeable. A great ride hub motor and the battery fitted at the back, the weight is distributed can be had without motor support. well. So, the rider can also carry his Giant Twist Express up a flight of stairs. The Giant Twist Express RS0 comes without suspension, but sit- The battery is housed vertically on the side of the carrier. This is the ting on the bicycle is very enjoyable, thanks to its sporty, comfortable usual mounting position on Giant pedelecs. On the Twist Express RS0 it design. Among the premium components of the Giant are hydraulic leads to some confusion, as the battery cannot be removed intuitively. rim brakes by Magura HS33 and a Shimano XT gear system. The handle of the battery invites you to remove the battery by pulling it up. This action might damage the holding device, since the battery has to be tilted, before using the handle. On the Twist Express RS0 the battery is mounted on the right side. On the left there is a beautiful carrier bag, looking just like the battery. A spare battery for doubling the already excellent range of about 70 km, could be stored in the carrier bag. Another option is to transport the charger in the bag to recharge the battery during a break on the tour. Thanks to the excellent range on the tour sub-section, good road handling characteristics, quiet and powerful motor (for conquering hills) and extra loading capacity, the Giant Twist Express RS0 managed a c-factor of 10 and walked away as winner of the product group Tour.
Pros and Cons + Excellent range on tour sub-section + Power sensor activates motor gently + High extra loading capacity + – Big display with many functions – Battery removal needs to be clarified
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Leisture – tour pedelec
Giant · Twist Express RS0
Measured values Performance on tour Range 69.7 km 78,0 Average speed 22.2 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.71 1,43 Performance on hill Range 19.5 km 26,1 Average speed 17.9 km/h 22,2 Support factor 0.79 1,8 Performance on city Range 26.4 km 40,1 Average speed 14.8 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.61 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
23.4 kg 17,4 2.5 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
17,9 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
134 W
16,3
174 W
176 W
Tretleistung
12,5 0,61
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
3.0 1.8 2.4 2.0 2.3 2.1 2.2 1.8 1.8 2.3 2.2 2.0 1.6 1.9
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 143 kg Motor 250 W Sanyo front hub motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 234 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status display Accurate Frame 28" Aluminum Size M 45/54/60 cm Fork Aluminum Starr fork Transmission Shimano Deore XT 27-gear chain transmission, Shimano Deore switch lever Brakes f/r hydraulic rim brake Magura HS33
Giant Deutschland GmbH Mettmannerstraße 25 · 40699 Erkrath
Telephone 02 11 99 89 40 Fax –
Wheels f/r Aluminum hollow chamber f front wheel hub motor r Shimano Deore Tires Schwalbe Energizer 37-622, reflector stripes Lights f Panasonic High Power LED r Spanninga Vectorx LED light in luggage carrier, own power source Extras Multifunct. LCD display, 3 support levels, height-adj. sidestand, ergon. handle grips, special luggage carrier Price Vehicle 2,099.90 € Price Replacement battery 499 €
E-mail info@giant-bikes.de Web www.giant-bicycles.com
Left The standard Giant Pedelec comes with a single battery. A second one could be housed in the opposite carrier bag. If not, the charger for the battery and the snack box can be stowed here. · Right It is easy to adjust settings on the display, which is intuitive to use.
ExtraEnergy.org 145
Leisture – tour pedelec
Kalkhoff · Agattu XXL Pedelec C test seal
Product group Tour Pedelec C-factor 8 Easy Pedelec C-factor 8 Family Pedelec C-factor 7
47
pedelecs in test
or d o g tou y y r r Vecatego
2010 July
City Comfort Pedelec C-factor 6 Conclusion The Kalkhoff Agattu XXL shines with its comfort and maximum loading capacity of 145 kg – the highest in the test. Heavy cyclists, or tour cyclists who like to take everything with them, will feel comfortable and safe on this bike. The winner in the group Tour Pedelec is a complete package for carefree cycling.
The manufacturer says the Agattu XXL was developed for “heavy boys and girls”. The frame, fork and rims were strengthened for heavy loads, giving the mass-produced Kalkhoff Agattu XXL an authorized overall weight of 170 kg. Deduct the weight of the bike, and you are left with a maximum extra loading capacity of almost 146 kg. Most pedelecs have
an extra loading capacity of between 95 kg and 100 kg. The big extra loading capacity of the Kalkhoff Agattu XXL was one of the reasons why the bike won the product category Tour Pedelec. Only 5 pedelecs fulfilled the minimum criteria for acceptance in this group (110 kg extra loading capacity with a range of at least 40 km on the tour sub-section). Imagine a cyclist weighing 85 kg and loading another 25 kg on his Tour Pedelec… he would not like to unload all again after just 40 km. Therefore, these criteria are not unrealistically high. All the more so, since the range is measured without the mentioned extra load. Among the well-selected components of the Kalkhoff Agattu XXL, the Suntour parallelogram saddle with spring support and Magura HS11 hydraulic brakes stood out. The latter are very well applied and brings every load to a standstill – no matter how heavy. The bottom bracket motor of Panasonic is the heart of this pedelec. On the test bike it worked very harmoniously and offered enough support. At higher speeds the support is reduced very gently. So, the rider doesn’t get the feeling he’s hit a wall when passing the supported speed. The test team’s search for aspects to criticize was fruitless. With reference to the excellent ergonomics of the bike, one could say what makes it comfortable, also makes it less sporty.
Pros and Cons + Strong support on hill + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support level + Highest additional loading capacity in test 146 ExtraEnergy.org
Leisture – tour pedelec
Kalkhoff · Agattu XXL Pedelec C
Measured values Performance on tour Range 44.7 km 78,0 Average speed 24.7 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.73 1,43 Performance on hill 15.1 km 26,1 Range 16.7 km/h 22,2 Average speed 1.34 1,8 Support factor Performance on city – km 40,1 Range – km/h 17,6 Average speed – 1,30 Support factor
Weight Vehicle Battery
25,6 kg 17,4 2,4 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
16.7 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
158 W 212 W
16,3
229 W
Tretleistung
12,5 0,61
Motorleistung
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.0 1.5 2.0 3.5 3.5 3.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 1.8 2.0 2.0 3.0
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 170 kg Motor 250 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery, removable and lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame Alu strengthened Sizes F 45, 49, 53, 57 cm M 49, 53, 57, 61 cm Fork Suspension fork Kalkhoff Verso ADJ, adjustable, strengthened Transmission Shimano Nexus 8-gear hub transmission Brakes Magura HS11 Evo2, hydraulic rim brakes
Derby Cycle Werke GmbH Siemensstraße 1–3 · 49661 Cloppenburg
Telephone 04 471 96 60 Fax 04 471 96 64 48 45
Wheels Rodi Keppler XXL double hollow chamber rims, strengthened Tires Continental City Ride 42-622, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights B&M Lumotec, B&M Toplight Flat Plus, Shimano hub dynamo 3N20 Extras Suntour parallelogram spring-supported saddle, angle adjustable front stem,alu luggage carrier, height-adjustable sidestand Price Vehicle 2099 € Price Replacement battery 499 €
E-mail info@kalkhoff-bikes.de Web www.kalkhoff-bikes.de
Left Everything is built a bit tougher: the spokes, rims, fork and front stem are all built to carry heavy loads. · Right The saddle and saddle suspension are also aimed at the somewhat heavier riders.
ExtraEnergy.org 147
Leisture – Tour Pedelec
Vitalbike · individual Sport Diamant
Product group Tour Pedelec C-factor 10
test seal
47
pedelecs in test
d gneroToour y r n VeTesT wi
Easy Pedelec C-factor 9
2010
Wellness Pedelec C-factor 9
July
Sport Pedelec C-factor 8 Conclusion There is more to this pedelec than meets the eye. The excellent road handling and easy controls via the motion sensor, turn an electrifying ride into a fun-filled race.
The Vitalbike Sport Diamant was one of the pleasant surprises of the test. The rider sits in a sporty, but comfortable position on the white-coated, traditional Diamant frame, but doesn’t really think it sits on a sport bike, fitted with lighting system, fenders, angle-adjustable front stem and battery on the luggage carrier. A closer look, and the selection of solid components (such as a Shimano Deore gearshift, Singleshock suspension fork and light) with well-distributed weight of 21.4 kg remove all doubt that it is a sporty bike. The fun starts on the first practice round. The very quiet Ansmann front hub motor underlines what this bike is all about: getting forward. The Sport Diamant has good acceleration and quickly gains speed. During the ride the motor supports powerfully, but not with brute force.
Despite the motion sensor, which activates the motor after the first crank circle (even earlier, if the crank shaft stands at a 45° angle when taking off against the hill) you do not feel pushed by the motor. Thanks to the good handling characteristics of the Vitalbike, the upper support boundary is hardly noticed. It is easy to ride faster than the supported speed, or without motor support. The six different support levels may not be used during everyday trips, but the support each gives, can be differentiated. This was not the case with all bicycles tested, even though they featured less support modes. The start-out assistance is operated with a push button and assists up to 6 km/h. It is useful in situations where quick take-offs are required.
The 324 Wh battery supplied by the charger specialist Ansmann provides sufficient power and looks good with its weight of 2.4 kg. The rather cheap-looking battery locking system is sub-optimal: it doesn’t make a noticeable clicking sound to indicate that the battery is securely locked. Without checking again during the ride, the battery might loosen. Unfortunately, the battery indicator on the simple display unit is inaccurate. The residual energy level can also be checked on a small display on the battery case on the luggage carrier. The quiet motor, long range on the tour sub-section, good road handling and powerful support earned this bike extra points in the test. This pedelec is ideal for touring and received the test seal “Very Good” with a c-factor of 10 in the Tour group. The bicycle also received high c-factors in the product groups Easy, Wellness and Sport.
Pros and Cons + Strong support on tour sub-section and on hills + Long range on tour + Good motor control despite motion sensor only + Take-off assistance + Light – May discharge, if forgotten to switch off after use – Battery does not click into place, must be locked separately – Slightly delayed support – Inaccurate battery indicator on handlebar
148 ExtraEnergy.org
Leisture – Tour Pedelec
Vitalbike · individual Sport Diamant
Measured values Performance on tour Range 50.6 km 78,0 Average speed 27.5 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.33 1,43 Performance on hill Range 20.0 km 26,1 Average speed 21.7 km/h 22,2 Support factor 1.27 1,8 Performance on city Range 26.8 km 40,1 Average speed 16.5 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.97 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
21.4 kg 17,4 2.4 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
21,7 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
161 W
193 W 285 W
16,3 Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.7 2.4 1.5 2.2 2.4 2.3 2.3 2.0 1.8 2.1 2.8 2.2 2.0 2.2
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 132 kg Motor 250 W Ansmann front hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 324 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Frame 28" Aluminum U6 Sizes F low 40/44/48/52/56 cm, Trapeze 44/48/52/56 cm M 44/48/52/56/60/64 cm Fork RST Singleshock suspension fork Transmission Shimano Deore 27-gear chain transmission, switch lever Brakes f/r Shimano Deore v-brakes
Mott Vital-Bike GmbH Rathausstraße 3–7 · 97922 Lauda
Wheels f/r Alu hollow chamber rims strengthened f/r Shimano Deore hubs Tires Schwalbe Marathon Racer 40-622, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights f Basta Sprint LED r Rearlight, side dynamo Extras 6 Support levels, take-off assistance to 6 km/h, height adjustable sidestand, Racktime System luggage carrier, frame lock, many optional variations and colors possible, since manufactured individually. Price Vehicle 2,670 € Price Replacement battery 549 €
Telephone 093 43 627 05 70 Fax 093 43 62 70 57 30
E-mail info@vital-bike.de Web www.vital-bike.de
Left The battery makes a slim impression, even after it has been shifted into its housing. The lock isn’t very user-friendly – it doesn’t click into position automatically, but has to be locked specifically. · Right The well-formed operation unit on the handlebar is easy to operate. The only problem: it only functions after the small flip switch on the battery has been turned on. And the electronics continue using power until it is switched off mechanically.
ExtraEnergy.org 149
Leisture – sport
150 ExtraEnergy.org
Leisture – sport
Test winner sport
Sport · competitive and dynamic
This class is about performance, speed, athletic elegance and off-road capabilities. Manufacturers may be more ambitious than their clients. While manufacturers focus ever more on performance, fit e-bikers are simply looking for additional fun. Eight bikes in the test field qualified for this class. In the end, three were awarded the test seal “Very Good”. Sport and the electric bicycle are not mutually exclusive anymore. In fact, the motor adds fun to sport. Young people, athletic types and trendsetters have a new recreational and exercise tool. And a Sport Pedelec can be used in daily life, too. Zippy cycling on all terrains at maximum support, powerful motors, combined with individual style equal image, fun and fitness.
test seal
47
Flyer · X-Serie Street
pedelecs in test
d gerospoort y n r n i Vetest w
2010 July
Its wide battery is full of untamed power, the component selection makes it a perfect blend of sporty and comfortable and the extra powerful motor makes this pedelec superior to all others in the group Sport. Pure class!
All pedelecs in this product group Diamant · ZOUMA SUPREME+.......................152 BH Bikes · Emotion Avant...............................78 KTM · eRace................................................... 154 Dolphin · Express......................................... 116 Flyer · X-Serie MTB.........................................132 KTM · eCross...................................................162 Moover · Speed SPD........................................166 Vitalbike · individual Sport Diamant........... 148 ExtraEnergy.org 151
Leisture – sport S-Pedelec
Diamant · Zouma Supreme + test seal
Product group Sport S-Pedelec C-factor 9 Wellness S-Pedelec C-factor 8
47
pedelecs in test
d rt gy sopoo y r r Vecatego
2010 July
Easy S-Pedelec C-factor 7 Business S-Pedelec C-factor 5 Conclusion With this fast and stylish pedelec the Diamant factory moved from being a bike manufacturer to being a motor vehicle manufacturer and handed itself a worthy gift on its 125th anniversary.
The flagship of Diamant’s Ride+ collection is the Zouma Supreme+. This s-pedelec was authorized by Germany’s Federal Department of Motor Vehicles, meaning the bikes can be manufactured in large and flexible batches without having to obtain the approval of TÜV and DEKRA for each individual bike.
Just how versatile the Zouma Supreme is, is underlined by the fact that it qualified for membership of 4 product groups. Thanks to its strong support and high average speeds on all test sections it earned the c‑factor of 9 and won the group Sport with a test seal “Very Good”. It also ended amongst the best in the groups Wellness, Business and Easy.
In the spirit of the anniversary year the Zouma Supreme presents itself in the classic Diamant frame. The black and white paint finish, slightly curved crossbar, widely tapered to the top handlebar, give the bike a modern touch. The overall impression is one of high quality. The impression is reinforced by the combination of Shimano XT components (eg. the gearshift), hydraulic rim brakes HS 33 by Magura and Bontrager carbon front wheel fork. With its good lighting system, cool mudguards and sophisticated kickstand, which unfolds into a dual kickstand, the Zouma Supreme is a real lightweight at 21 kg. The weight is unevenly distributed (the battery on the luggage rack and rear wheel hub motor push most weight to the rear), but does not affect the riding experience negatively. The Zouma Supreme’s sitting position is quite sporty. The bike has no suspension, which hints at the use and road surface the Diamant Zouma Supreme+ is intended for, namely high-speed trips in an urban environment. As s-pedelec the motor does not cut out at 25 km/h, but at 45 km/h. Without a support limit, the 250 W BionX motor is left to show what it can do. The bike’s support factor was measured at about 1.8 and average speed at 29 km/h, meaning our test riders literally flew down the tour sub-section of the test track. It measured an average speed of about 25 km/h on the hill and almost 18 km/h on the city sub-section with its 14 compulsory stops. Clearly, the Zouma Supreme was among the fastest pedelecs in the test. The 260 Wh battery, which seemed very small for a pedelec at first, surprised with a range of over 30 km on the tour sub-section and 15 km on the hill sub-section, given the powerful support it offers. This performance is more than good enough for most everyday trips. When the battery goes flat, the Diamant Zouma Supreme brings the rider home effortlessly, thanks to its low road resistance. 152 ExtraEnergy.org
Pros and Cons + Strong support on tour and on the hill + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support level + Low weight + Recuperation mode + – Must be insured – Uneven weight distribution (tail-heavy) – High price
Leisture – sport S-Pedelec
Diamant · Zouma Supreme +
Measured values Performance on tour 31.2 km 58,8 Range 28.8 km/h 34,9 Average speed 1.76 2,94 Support factor Performance on hill 14.9 km 37,5 Range 24.7 km/h 30,4 Average speed 1.34 1,72 Support factor
Efficiency triangle 24,6 Geschwindigkeit
24,8
24,7 km/h
0,67
14,9 18,5 0,84
0 206 W
Performance on city 17.6 km 51,0 Range 17.6 km/h 17,8 Average speed 0.90 1,25 Support factor
Weight Vehicle Battery
21.6 kg 18,1 3.0 kg 2,4
159 W 371 W
17,6
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
15,6 0,63
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
3.0 2.0 2.5 2.5 3.0 2.5 2.2 2.0 2.2 2.5 1.6 2.2 2.0 2.0
37,3 8,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 130 kg Motor 250 W BionX PL250HT rear wheel hub motor (high torque) Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 28" Aluminum 6061 Sizes M 50/55/60 cm Fork Bontrager Nebular Karbon Transmission Shimano Deore XT 27-gear chain transmission, Shimano XT Rapidfire switch lever Brakes f/r hydraulic rim brake Magura HS33, 3-finger
Bikeeurope B.V. / Trek Deutschland Stettbachstraße 2 · 8600 Dübendorf Switzerland
Wheels f/r Grünert Airliner hollow chamber f Shimano Deore XT r rear wheel hub motor Tires Schwalbe Energizer 37-622, reflector stripes Lights f Supernova E3E LED r Spanninga LED integr. in battery box, own power source Extras Multifunct. LCD display, 4 support levels, take-off assistance to 20 km/h, Bontrager Karbon saddle supports, foldable 2-leg stand, alu luggage carrier Price Vehicle 3,199 € Price Replacement battery 499 €
Telephone 01 80 350 70 10 Fax
E-mail vertrieb@diamantrad.com Web www.diamantrad.com
Left Fitted out for technology fanatics: Karbon fork, hydraulic brakes, LED headlamp… only the best! · Right The BionX display with thumb switch for acceleration (at lower speeds also without pedalling).
ExtraEnergy.org 153
Leisture – sport pedelec
KTM · eRace test seal
47
Product group Sport Pedelec C-factor 8 Wellness Pedelec C-factor 8
pedelecs in test
d rt gy sopoo y r r Vecatego
2010 July
Conclusion A harmonious overall concept for a sporty Leisure Pedelec whose performance corresponds to the idea behind it. Functional, sophisticated and well-adjusted.
The KTM eRace belongs to a new generation of pedelecs. As mountain bike, it combines sport with electrical support. The white and orange color combination reinforces the KTM eRace’s sporty touch. The sitting position is an enjoyable blend of sporty and comfortable. The striking, but well-fitted BionX battery in the middle of the stable, hardtail frame quickly shows that this is not a normal mountain bike. The combination of Shimano SLX and Deore components, the well-gripping Tektro Auriga disk brakes and the Rock Shox Dart suspension fork, together with the BionX motor, result in a harmonious vehicle.
having to negotiate a steep mountain with extra weight on the bike, doesn’t cause anyone to break out in sweat any longer – thanks to the electrical support. On the contrary, at an average speed of 23.5 km/h on the hill sub-section, only a few s-pedelecs were faster than the KTM – and they have to be licensed. So, the eRace is at home on forest roads, where it can be cycled safely and legally.
With a support factor of 1 (measured the same on all sub-sections) the KTM eRace doesn't seem to differentiate between terrains. But, when it comes to acceleration (which could be tested well on the city sub-secThe motor pushes the weight of the mountain bike up to 22 kg. But, tion) this bike counts among the quickest. So, the eRace conquers init is still one of the lightest bikes in the test. In any case, the idea of clines with ease – no matter how steep and obstacle-rich. The closer one gets to the support limit of 25 km/h, the less one is supported. But, the gradual cut-out is hardly perceptible. Thanks to the excellent electronic control of the motor and low road friction, the eRace can easily be taken beyond the support limit. What is more, the intelligent cut-out of support at the upper support limit saves battery energy. Apart from the large 355 Wh battery, this explains the very good range of 62.9 km measured on the tour sub-section. The bike can also recuperate energy, but the bike was tested with the recuperation mode off. The BionX usually recuperates enough energy to extend the range by about 10%. With its solid and very functional equipment, well-adjusted motor and convincing concept, the eRace managed a c-factor of 8 in each of the groups Sport and Wellness (which includes s-pedelecs) and was given the test seal “Very Good”.
Pros and Cons + Strong support on tour and hill sub-sections + Long range on tour + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support limit + High extra load capacity + Recuperation mode + – No light and mudguards 154 ExtraEnergy.org
Leisture – sport pedelec
KTM · eRace
Measured values Performance on tour Range 62.9 km 78,0 Average speed 25.8 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.99 1,43 Performance on hill Range 22.3 km 26,1 Average speed 22.2 km/h 22,2 Support factor 1.09 1,8
Efficiency triangle 24,2 19,6
Geschwindigkeit
0,63
22,2 km/h
12,1 15,6 0,64 0
Performance on city Range 28.1 km 40,1 Average speed 17.6 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.99 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
22.0 kg 17,4 3.7 kg 1,1
181 W
168 W
16,3 12,5
293 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.5 2.0 2.2 3.0 3.1 2.6 2.7 2.0 2.0 1.9 1.5 2.0 5.2 1.9
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 138 kg Motor 250 W BionX PL-250HT rear wheel hub motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 355 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 26" Aluminum Size M 43/48/53 cm Fork Rock Shox Dart 3.0 (100 mm) suspension fork, adjustable, lock-out Transmission Shimano SLX 27-gear chain transmission, Shimano Deore Rapidfire switch lever
KTM Fahrrad GmbH Harlochwerstraße 13 · 5230 Mattighofen Austria
Brakes f/r hydr. disc brakes Tektro Auriga Comp, 2-finger Wheels f/r Rigida Taurus Andra 210 f Shimano M525 r hub motor Tires Schwalbe Racing Ralph 54-559, foldable Lights – Extras Multifunct. LCD display, 4 support levels, frames prepared for insertion in bike stands. Price Vehicle 2,399 € Price Replacement battery 890 €
Telephone 0043 77 42 40 91 00 Fax 0043 77 42 40 91 99
E-mail info@ktm-bikes.at Web www.ktm-bikes.at
Left Powerful and well-tuned to the software. But, be warned: when removing and replacing the wheel, take care to align the axle with the integrated power sensor and to fasten the wheel nuts properly. · Right The link between the electric motor and muscle-powered engine – the Shimano SLX 27-gear chain transmission.
ExtraEnergy.org 155
Leisture – wellness
Wellness · the electric vehicle as feel-good factor
ExtraEnergy is often asked what exactly a Wellness Pedelec is. It is a pedelec developed for people who want to spend their recreational time in a sporty way. In other words, when relaxation and fun are more important than physical exertion. Imagine yoghurt with Aloe Vera – an everyday product pepped up with a feel-good factor. The Wellness Pedelec is something similar. ExtraEnergy listed clear prerequisites for membership of the product group. Only pedelecs with good support – especially against the hill – quiet motors and low rolling resistances make it into this group. Four bikes were awarded the test seal “Very Good” in this group and another 6 the seal “Good”. Wellness Pedelecs are
156 ExtraEnergy.org
suited for cyclists of all ages interested in electric support, who like the wide outdoors and to get around in a trendy way and so (gently) do something for their health and fitness. The overall good support (which gets the rider going reliably against hills and on take-off), agile vehicle handling, quiet motor and attractive design guarantee lots of riding pleasure. The range and price are of lesser importance. Relaxed, fashionable outdoor clothing rounds the picture off.
www
300m
Leisture – wellness
Test winner wellness
test seal
47
pedelecs in test
d gr woelloness y r e Veest winn
2010 t
July
Third Element · eSpire
The new company Third Element developed a vehicle called eSpire, which reaches for superlatives. The road values measured for this very fast e-bike, are the highest recorded to date in an ExtraEnergy test. It has a unique look and boasts first class components. As winner of the Wellness group, the eSpire stands for ultimate power, incomparable style and carefree cycling fun.
All vehicles in this product category BH Bikes · Emotion Sport Max+................... 158 Heinzmann · Estelle Sport.......................... 160 KTM · eCross...................................................162 Leviatec · Argentic........................................ 164 Moover · Speed SPD...................................... 166 Third Element · eSpire ................................ 168
ave · Eagle........................................................76 BH Bikes · Emotion Avant...............................78 daum electronic · ergo bike pedelec............ 126 Diamant · ZOUMA SUPREME+.......................152 Flyer · i:SY Street.......................................... 130 Flyer · X-Serie MTB.......................................... 132 Kalkhoff · Pro Connect....................................86 KTM · eRace................................................... 154 Magna Marque · Styriette.......................... 140 Sachs · Electra 3............................................ 134 Ultra Motor · A2B Hybrid........................... 136 Victoria · Münsterland................................. 108 Vitalbike · individual Sport Diamant........... 148 Vital Bike · Tour Y........................................ 110 Winora · town e:xp........................................112 ExtraEnergy.org 157
Leisture – wellness pedelec
BH Bikes · Emotion Sport Max + TesT seal
Product group Wellness Pedelec C-factor 7
47
pedelecs in test
es s lln oowed g or y g e t
2010 ca
Sport Pedelec C-factor 6
July
Conclusion The Sport Max of BH Bikes is a fun bike. It’s a Wellness Pedelec with good averages – never too much, never too little. Especially its light weight, attractive design and good handling characteristics convinced the test team.
The Spanish manufacturer BH Bikes is well-known for its racing and led to rattling on the test track. Overall, the test riders enjoyed the mountain bikes. With the Sport Max it added a comfortable, sporty pe- ride. Up to 22 km/h the motor supports well. Then it gradually decreases its support to the point where it cuts out completely. No speed kick delec to its range. should be expected here. On the other hand, the cut-out at the upper The new Suntour Swing suspension fork and black-white design add support limit is gentle and smooth. The BH Bike supports best at the to the modern look. The Shimano Deore gearshift and hydraulic disk rather low pedal frequency of about 60 rpm. At higher pedal frequenbrakes complete the picture of an all-round sporty vehicle. But, the rid- cies, support is noticeably weaker. er has to get by without a proper lighting system and mudguards. The display unit is a simple LED model by Panasonic, with readings in the Thanks to good road handling, sound bicycle technology and sturdy Paform of images. For instance, a hare represents the highest support nasonic motor, the BH Bike managed a c-factor of 7 in the group Wellness and a c-factor of 6 in the group Sport Pedelec for a test seal “Good”. level, while a tortoise stands for the gentlest support level. Thanks to its light weight of 19.6 kg and motor mounted in the center, the Sport Max can be cycled home easily with a flat battery. This also gave the bike good marks for portability in the ergonomic test. The road performance values, measured with and without motor support, add up to an overall positive scorecard. Like all pedelecs manufactured by BH Bikes, the Sport Max has a Panasonic motor. The entire system, including the battery, is black. The battery has minimal clearance, which
158 ExtraEnergy.org
Pros and Cons + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support limit + High extra loading capacity + Low weight + – No light, kickstand and mudguards
Leisture – wellness pedelec
BH Bikes · Emotion Sport Max +
Measured values Performance on tour Range 40.0 km 78,0 Average speed 26.4 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.03 1,43 Performance on hill Range 21.6km 26,1 Average speed 19.9 km/h 22,2 Support factor 0.93 1,8 Performance on city Range 25.9 km 40,1 Average speed 15.8 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.95 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
19.6 kg 17,4 2.4 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
16.4 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
106 W 147 W
16,3
169 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.3 1.0 1.3 2.4 1.5 1.6 2.0 1.8 1.6 1.8 1.6 2.2 5.4 1.6
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 140 kg Motor 250 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 28" Aluminum Sizes M 50/55/60 cm Fork SR Suntour Swing suspension fork Transmission Shimano Deore, Shadow 8-gear chain transmission, switch lever
BH Bikes Europe, SL Perratagna 10 · 01015 Vitoria Spain
Brakes f/r hydraulic disc brake Shimano Disc M-486 Wheels f/r Rodi Freeway Aluminum hollow chamber rims Tires C1594 Squama 40-622, reflector stripes & flat protection Lights – Extras 3 Support levels, Titan Lite saddle support, Prologo Kappa saddle, Titan Lite front stem Price Vehicle 1,899 € Price Replacement battery 549 €
Telephone 0034 945 13 52 02 Fax 0034 945 13 93 21
E-mail bh@bhsa.es Web www.bh-emotion.com
Left Chic and functional: the SR Suntour Swing suspension fork · Right Quasi-symbolic for the pedelec – clear and simple – and on the display the LCD technology was turned the cold shoulder. The illustrations used to explain the different support levels exaggerate somewhat, but are nonetheless effective. ExtraEnergy.org 159
Leisture – wellness S-Pedelec
Heinzmann · estelle Sport TesT seal
47
pedelecs in test
es s lln oowed g or y g e t
2010 ca
Product group Wellness S-Pedelec C-factor 7
July
Conclusion The Heinzmann Estelle Sport is a s-pedelec with strong support. The rider can pedal along, but does not have to. The motor and components are made to last and the range is more than adequate for short trips.
At first glance the Heinzmann Estelle Sport looks like a trekking bike with its classical Diamant frame and luggage rack with integrated bag. The components selected for the bike (Shimano Nexus 8-speed hub gear system, Busch und Müller lighting system and hydraulic HS11 Magura rim brakes) strengthen this impression. But, look closer, and the large front wheel hub motor, turning handle, rear view mirror and insurance license plate will tell you this is not a conventional bike, but an s-pedelec. As the name indicates, the seating position on the Estelle Sport is quite sporty. Suspension lacks, making this vehicle better suited for well-paved roads. Good weight distribution on the classic frame, makes it easy to carry, or mount on a car bicycle rack. Experience has shown that the Heinzmann motor is long-lasting and durable. After all, thousands of post office mail bikes have been reliably served by it over many years.
All in all, the c-factor of the Heinzmann Estelle Sport came to 7 in the group Wellness, thanks to its excellent speed and support performances. It was awarded the test seal “Good”. The bike failed to qualify for other product groups, and did not get a “Very Good” seal, due to the rather short range and motor noise.
Turn the handle grip and you’ll feel the electric power of the Estelle Sport. The powerful 500 W motor accelerates rapidly to high speeds. The rider does not even have to pedal to get to 20 km/h. Beyond 20 km/h the rider’s input is required. Together, muscle power and electric power can take the speed up to 45 km/h. Our test drivers found the motor supported significantly better from speeds of 23 km/h upwards, than below 23 km/h. The average speeds of over 30 km/h on the tour sub-section and 24 km/h on the hill, are testimony to low road resistance, good support and riding fun. However, the fast Heinzmann revealed a few weaknesses on take-off against the hill. The simple motion sensor regulating the activation and deactivation of the extra support, leaves it to the rider to decide how much muscle he wants to use. However, if one wishes to ride longer distances on the Heinzmann Estelle Sport, one should pedal along as energetically as possible, since the 355 Wh battery runs empty in less than an hour, when set to full motor support. Do not rely on the state-of-charge display on the handlebar, because it is inaccurate. The test riders also saw the fact that the Heinzmann motor only supported on turning the throttle as a negative. This occupies the right hand permanently and can lead to unpleasant stiffness of the joints. Furthermore, the motor was perceived as noisy. This can go on your nerves when on trips in nature.
160 ExtraEnergy.org
Pros and Cons + Strong support on tour and hill sub-sections + – Must be insured – Battery cannot be locked – Short range – Motor emits loud whistling sound at high speeds – Supports only with throttle – High price
Leisture – wellness S-Pedelec
Heinzmann · estelle Sport
Measured values Performance on tour Range 24.6 km 58,8 Average speed 30.9 km/h 34,9 Support factor 2.94 2,94 Performance on hill Range 15.4 km 37,5 Average speed 23.8 km/h 30,4 Support factor 1.42 1,72 Performance on city Range 22.5 km 51,0 Average speed 16.3 km/h 17,8 Support factor 0.92 1,25
Weight Vehicle Battery
25.6 kg 18,1 3.5 kg 2,4
Efficiency triangle 24,6 Geschwindigkeit
24,8
23,8 km/h
0,67
14,9 18,5 0,84
0 148 W
207 W
439 W
17,6 Tretleistung
Motorleistung
15,6 0,63
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.5 3.6 2.4 2.4 2.5 2.4 2.7 2.5 1.8 2.3 4.2 3.2 2.0 2.5
37,3 8,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 500 W Heinzmann front hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 355 Wh Li-ion battery, removable Battery charge status indicator Inaccurate (on handlebar), accurate (on battery) Frame 28" Aluminum Sizes F 26" 44, 50 cm, 28" 46, 50, 53 cm M 26"/28" 53, 57, 61 cm Fork Steel Starr fork Transmission Shimano Nexus 8-gear premium hub transm., turn handle
Elektrorad-Service Altenbergerstraße 5 · 48329 Havixbeck
Brakes f/r hydraulic rim brakes Magura HS11, 4-finger Wheels f/r Alu-Hohlkammer f Wheel hub motor r Shimano Nexus Tires Schwalbe Marathon Plus 40-622, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights f B&M Lumotec oval r Basta Ray Steady, side dynamo AXA Extras 2 Support levels & acceleration handle, take-off assistance to 20 km/h, Seitenständer, Alu-Gepäckträger
Price Vehicle 2.999 € Price Replacement battery 719 €
Telephone 02 507 572 96 10 Fax 02 507 572 96 11
E-mail info@elektrorad-service.de Web www.elektrorad-service.de
Left The lithium battery in the bag might be big, but it is nevertheless empty after an hour. Another negative: it cannot be locked, which means the rider has to carry the battery with him, when parking his vehicle in a public place. · Right The turn handle with the operating buttons and accurate battery capacity indicator.
ExtraEnergy.org 161
Leisture – Wellness pedelec
KTM · eCross test seal
47
Product group Wellness Pedelec C-factor 8 Sport Pedelec C-factor 7
pedelecs in test
ollnoessd g y e w r Vecategory
2010 July
Conclusion The KTM eCross is sporty, well-priced, fast and fun to ride. Clearly built for trips on country roads, with strong support from the BionX motor and minimalistic, sporty fittings, this pedelec is a very successful concept vehicle.
The eCross is a comeback, and at the same time a premiere, for the Aus- sections. So, the KTM eCross was made to win the product group Sport Petrian motorbike and bicycle manufacturer KTM. As can be expected from delec. It also received the test seal “Very Good” in the category Wellness Pemanufacturers in Alpine countries, the eCross was developed for moun- delec, where it came second not far behind that group winner. tainous country roads and off-road cycling. Weighing only 23 kg, the KTM was among the lightest muscle-hybrid vehicles in the test. The fittings limited to the bare essentials, without forsaking on anything a sporty excursion demands – bring the weight down. For instance, the mudguards were left off, since they may impede on countryside trips. The bike does not conform to the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVzO), because the main aim is cycling fun. With the 27-gear Deore gearshift and the Tektro disc brakes, the pedelec is well kitted out for excursions in the countryside. The BionX motor and 355 Wh Li-Ion battery rounds the picture off. The handling of the KTM can be described in a single word: fun. Especially the support on the hill is something to behold. With a s-factor of 1.34, the rider masters all hills in no time. Even 16-km-long hills can be conquered at 20 km/h. On the tour sub-section, the battery had enough juice for 48 km, set at the maximum support level. The good range can be ascribed to the bike’s low weight and low road resistance. The motor provides very strong support right up to the maximum support speed (25 km/h). When this mark is crossed, the motor cuts out somewhat abruptly, but this should present no problem to sporty riders. Should it, a retail trader will adjust the motor to phase support out more gently. After all, almost everything is adjustable on a BionX system. Noteworthy is the well-functioning recuperation function of the BionX motor. This recovers some energy, while braking on the downhill. The price-to-performance ratio is in order, the design is sporty-chic and the range is fair with a very good, constant support. Above all, the KTM offers riding fun! It is a good choice for sporty recreational riders who value stylish design, love off-road cycling and want to fly up every hill. This versatile bike with lively BionX motor also encourages fast cycling on level Pros and Cons + Strong support against hill + Power sensor activates motor gently + Recuperation mode + – No light, bell, luggage carrier and no mudguards – Motor cut-out noticeable at upper support limit 162 ExtraEnergy.org
Leisture – wellness pedelec
KTM · eCross
Measured values Performance on tour Range 48.4 km 78,0 Average speed 24.9 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.08 1,43 Performance on hill 16.1 km 26,1 Range 21.7 km/h 22,2 Average speed Support factor 1.34 1,8 Performance on city 27.4 km 40,1 Range 15.9 km/h 17,6 Average speed Support factor 1.11 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
23,3 kg 17,4 3,8 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
21.7 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0 151 W 202 W
362 W
16,3 Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
3.5 2.2 3.0 2.1 2.1 1.8 1.9 1.9 1.3 1.5 1.4 1.9 2.0 1.3
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 140 kg Motor 250 W BionX rear wheel hub motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 355 Wh Li-ion battery, removable and lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame KTM 26" Aluminum 6061 clean-Shape Sizes 46, 51, 56 cm Fork Suspension fork Suntour SF9-CR8V Transmission Shimano Deore 27-gear chain transmission, Shimano Alivio Rapidfire Plus
KTM Fahrrad GmbH Harlochwerstraße 13 · 5230 Mattighofen Austria
Brakes f&r Tektro Auriga Comp Wheels Rigida Taurus 2000, Shimano M529 r BionX hub motor Tires Schwalbe Tyarago 40-622 Lights – Extras Spring-supported saddle Satori Harm LT2, ergon. grips, KTM rear-end stand, adjustable Kalloy Ahead steering stem Price Vehicle 2,199 € Price Replacement battery 890 €
Telephone 0043 77 42 40 91 00 Fax 0043 77 42 40 91 99
E-mail info@ktm-bikes.at Web www.ktm-bikes.at
Left The powerful BionX hub motor in the rear wheel delivers strong pull and a noiseless push for lots of cycling fun. · Right The BionX operating panel shows the current speed, trip distance travelled, battery capacity status and support level currently in use, among others.
ExtraEnergy.org 163
Leisture – wellness pedelec
Leviatec · Argentic
Product group Wellness Pedelec C-factor 3 Conclusion The Argentic follows in the footsteps of the Leviatec E02. In contrast to the Leviatec E02, the Argentic adheres to all regulations and can be taken on long excursions. Its performance was found to be average.
The Leviatec Argentic succeeds the Leviatec E02, which failed the test of 2009 for being illegal. At first glance, nothing seems to have changed. The younger brother also has a curved, silver-polished aluminum frame, spike tires and a battery located behind the seat post. But, first impressions deceive. The Leviatec Argentic is a legal pedelec and not a quasi-e-bike (as the Leviatec E02). It only supports when pedaled. The IEC plug has been replaced by a safe version and some other components have also been improved. During the test the simple gearshift functioned. The suspension fork does what its name suggests, which cannot be said about the terrible, mechanical disk brakes. A screw loosened on the spring-supported saddle post and had to be repaired during the test. The battery indicator on the new Leviatec is much better, but still not accurate enough. The bike scored a few positive points for measuring the longest range of all bikes tested on the tour sub-section, namely 80 km. One reason for this: the motor does not give much support. Genuine support is only given once the rider switches to the two largest pinions (ie. the smallest gears). This might have been caused by a defect in the motion sensor of the test bike. We were unable to rectify the problem. The motor supported a bit better on the hill. Reasonable freewheeling properties, despite simple components, gave the bike a good s-factor. The differences between the simple technology of the Argentic and the technology used by more expensive pedelecs clearly come to the fore against the hill. Here, the Leviatec’s support kicks in very late, due to the simple motion sensor. It is jerky to boot.
significantly better performances, kept this pedelec from doing better. The Leviatec Argentic is a much-improved product, but our test riders agreed that it was better to pay a little more for better functionality and more riding The Leviatec Argentic made it into the product fun. group Wellness, where it notched up a c-factor of 3. Strong competition from pedelecs with 164 ExtraEnergy.org
Pros and Cons + Strong support on the hill + Long range on tour and city sub-sections + Low complete price – Delayed support activation and cut-out – Simple, mechanical disk brakes – Inaccurate battery charge reading on handlebar – Saddle must be removed to take battery out – No tail lights
Leisture – wellness pedelec
Leviatec · Argentic
Measured values Performance on tour Range 83.6 km 78,0 Average speed 23.6 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.75 1,43 Performance on hill Range 26.1 km 26,1 Average speed 19.1 km/h 22,2 Support factor 1.20 1,8 Performance on city Range 40.1 km 40,1 Average speed 15.0 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.78 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
23.1 kg 17,4 3.5 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
19,1 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
134 W
160 W
16,3
214 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
3.2 4.0 4.2 3.0 2.5 2.3 2.6 3.0 3.5 3.0 2.6 3.0 3.0 3.6
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 133 kg Motor 250 W Bafang rear wheel hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 360 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Inaccurate (voltage-based) Frame 26" Aluminum Size 47 cm Uni-size Fork Omega Rapid Suspension suspension fork with Rimlock Transmission Shimano SIS Index 6-gear chain transmission, turn handle Brakes f Apse Jar Super Brake 4-finger disc brake r Apse 4-finger v-brake kg
Leviatec GmbH & Co. KG Braaker Grund 8 · 22145 Braak
Wheels f/r Aluminum r rear wheel hub motor Tires Kenda country road tires 50-559 Lights f 36 V LED r no, no dynamo Extras 1 Support level, spring-supported saddle, sidestand, angle adjustable front stem, attachable dirt-catcher
Price Vehicle 798 € Price Replacement battery about 300 €
Telephone 040 881 41 47 14 Fax 040 881 41 47 25
E-mail info@leviatec.de Web www.leviatec.de
Left The charger plug is an unsuitable coaxial plug, similar to the one used on antenna cables. The protection cap loses its functionality very quickly. The battery is secured with two locks.· Right The quality of the components has improved visibly. Pictured is the suspension fork. The Argentic even got a headlamp. Unfortunately, the backlights are missing...
ExtraEnergy.org 165
Leisture – wellness S-Pedelec
Moover · Speed SPD TesT seal
47
Product group Wellness S-Pedelec C-factor 7
Sport S-Pedelec C-factor 5
Conclusion The Moover Speed was one of the lightest pedelecs in the test. The performance of the 300 Watt Panasonic motor failed to impress the test riders.
The Moover Speed is a sporty pedelec with modern design and disc brakes which also fit this description. In this case the Double Tap gearshift is not a Shimano product, but a Sram product. The Panasonic bottom bracket motor delivers 300 Watt. It is still unclear where this vehicle fits into EU law, since the legislator doesn’t allow a Sport Pedelec to be without a light. It also does not fall within the legal power and support speed limits of 250 Watt and 25 km/h respectively, which are the upper limits, set by the legislator for treating a pedelec as a normal bicycle. It cannot be classified as a fast pedelec, because some road fittings are missing. In short, the vehicle moves in a juristic grey zone in the EU. With a weight of only 18.1 kg, it was one of the lightest pedelecs in the test. Notwithstanding, it is very stable. The modern LCD display is very legible. Although it has a 300 Watt motor, the support factors of 0.7 and 0.8 on the tour and hill sub-sections respectively, was very low. These s-factors might also have to do with the cycling behavior of the test riders, who might have been influenced by the sporty looks and so encouraged to really stand in the pedals. This tendency to encourage sporty cycling behavior helped the Moover Speed qualify for the group Sport Pedelec, despite its modest performance values. In this group it earned the test seal “Good” with a c-factor of 5. Pros and Cons + LCD display very legible + Single key for battery and lock on frame + Comfortable ergonomic handle grips + Lightest s-pedelec in test – Low additional loading capacity – Take-off assistance lever badly mounted – Insurance status in Germany unclear 166 ExtraEnergy.org
pedelecs in test
es s lln oowed g or y g e t
2010 ca
July
Leisture – wellness S-Pedelec
Moover · Speed SPD
Measured values Performance on tour Range 32.7 km 58,8 Average speed 28..1 km/h 34,9 Support factor 0.67 2,94 Performance on hill 22.2 km 37,5 Range 22.1 km/h 30,4 Average speed Support factor 0.84 1,72 Performance on city 28.8 km 51,0 Range 15.6 km/h 17,8 Average speed Support factor 0.80 1,25
Weight Vehicle Battery
18,1 kg 18,1 2,4 kg 2,4
Efficiency triangle 24,6 Geschwindigkeit
24,8
22.1 km/h
0,67
14,9 18,5 0,84
0
153 W
17,6
183 W
215 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
15,6 0,63
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.3 1.0 1.3 2.4 1.5 1.6 2.0 1.8 1.6 1.8 1.6 2.2 5.4 1.6
37,3 8,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 300 W Panasonic bottom bracket motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 260 Wh Li-ion battery Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 28" Aluminum Sizes M 50, 55 cm Fork Aluminum Ahead Starr fork Transmission Sram Red, Double Tap 10-gear chain transmission
Moover Hybrid Bikes Ruessenstraße 6 · 6341 Baar Switzerland
Brakes Avid Juicy 3, hydraulic disc brakes Wheels Concept SL Alu hollow chamber rims with grommets, Shimano M525 disc Tires Schwalbe Marathon Supreme 37-622 Lights none Extras LCD display Price Vehicle 2,848 € Price Replacement battery 569 €
Telephone 0041 417 69 72 20 Fax 0041 417 69 73 80
E-mail sales@moover.ch Web www.moover.ch
Left The hydraulic brake on the front wheel fork is powerful and beautifully formed. · Right The front stem, handlebar and user display make a classic appearance in black and white. The display shows the cyclist the most important trip and system information at all times and easily legible.
ExtraEnergy.org 167
Leisture – wellness E-bike
Third Element · eSpire test seal
47
Product group Wellness E-Bike C-factor 10 Conclusion Awesome! The eSpire e-bike from Third Element blasts all performance boundaries set by tested bikes to date.
With its prominently placed carbon chassis, which encloses the huge 820 Wh battery, and striking red tubular frame, the eSpire looks like a Ducati dressed up as a bicycle! Pedal along, and the ride turns into a race. The rider has to hold the turn handle throttle twisted for support. A prototype with prototype components lined up for the test. The market-ready version will adhere to all regulations, meaning it will feature mudguards, lights, mirror and a battery indicator display. The components used in the test model were of the finest. Included were: 24" Sun rims with Schwalbe Crazy Bob moped tires, hydraulic Magura Julie disk brakes, Rohloff 14-speed internal hub gearbox, and the outstanding Marzocchi suspension with Rocco shock absorbers at the back and a 888 RC3 suspension fork in front. No wonder the firsttime rider expects an exhilarating ride. Thanks to the long suspension deflections (200 mm each), wide handlebar and fairly upright sitting position, the rider sits very comfortably on the eSpire – even when cycling over big humps or down stairs. Avoid carrying the bike up a flight of stair – it weighs 37 kg. Then again, nobody thinks of carrying his scooter, or motorbike.
pedelecs in test
d gr woelloness y r e Veest winn
2010 t
July
The eSpire’s weight is no factor on the road. Steering it on the test track couldn’t have been simpler. Again, the comparison with other motorized two-wheelers comes to mind. This vehicle blurs the border between bicycle and motorcycle. Only the legal speed limit of 45 km/h braked Third Element. From a purely technical point of view, the bike would have been able to go even faster (up to 60 km/h). During the test, the engine performance of the eSpire didn’t push the average speed down, but rather the daring of the test riders. The average was measured at 35 km/h. Anything higher on the challenging and varied 5 km route would have been reckless. The highest average speed recorded by a single test rider was just below 40 km/h. A female rider conquered the hill sub-section with a speed of 33 km/h. This power is provided by the new 1,200 Watt mid-engine of the Munich firm Clean Mobile. Power is transmitted directly to the back wheel with a stageless transmission. The bike moves forward on electrical power only, in other words without pedaling, by turning the hand throttle. This can lead to minor wrist problems, which quickly vanish during normal riding (one can only change gears with the “gas throttle” turned back). The eSpire has no battery-level indicator. Caution: should the battery go flat (despite its huge capacity), it will be tricky to get the bike home purely on muscle power. Adding components such as a battery indicator, or lights will place the eSpire in the group Sport and Business, instead of Wellness. As a Wellness e-bike, it measured a c-factor of 10 and got a test seal “Very Good”. It won the group with its extraordinary performance values.
Pros and Cons + Strong support in all riding situations + Long range on tour and in the city + High extra loading capacity + 14-speed hub gearshift + – Must be insured – Heavy – Motor sound clearly audible – High price – Difficult to cycle without motor
168 ExtraEnergy.org
Leisture – wellness E-Bike
Third Element · eSpire
Measured values Performance on tour Range 58.2 km 58,8 Average speed 34.9 km/h 34,9 Support factor 2.26 2,94 Performance on hill Range 34.8 km 37,5 Average speed 30.4 km/h 30,4 Support factor 1.72 1,72 Performance on city Range 51.0 km 51,0 Average speed 17.5 km/h 17,8 Support factor 1.25 1,25
Efficiency triangle 24,6 Geschwindigkeit
24,8
30,4 km/h
0,67
14,9 18,5 0,84
0 190 W
315 W
573 W
17,6 Tretleistung
Motorleistung
15,6 0,63
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
– – – – – – – – – – – – – –
nicht teilgenommen
Weight Vehicle Battery
37.3 kg 18,1 6.4 kg 2,4
37,3 8,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 150 kg Motor 1,200 W Clean Mobile middle motor Sensor type – Battery 820 Wh Li-ion battery, lockable & removable Battery charge status indicator None Frame 19,5" Aluminum grid pipe frame (24" wheels) Size 49 cm Uni-size Fork Marzocchi 888 RC3 suspension fork Transmission Rohloff 14-gear hub transmission, turn handle Brakes f/r hydr. disc brake Magura Julie f 203 mm r 180 mm
Third Element GmbH Karlstraße 35 · 80333 Munich
Wheels f/r Sun MTX 39 f DT Swiss 370 Disc r Rohloff Tires Schwalbe Crazy Bob Moped, 62-507 Lights f B&M 175 QRSNDI 0491 r B&M 323 ALT 0211, own power source Extras 1 Support level, acceleration grip, take-off assistance to 20 km/h, suspension at back Marzocchi Rocco TST, massive sidestand
Price Vehicle 6,990 € Price Replacement battery 990 €
Telephone 089 55 96 98 80 Fax 089 55 96 99 22
E-mail info@3-element.com Web www.3-element.com
Left The handlebar is still clear of lights, switches and displays. The vehicle reminds of a motorbike, since the rider must coordinate the acceleration grip on the right and the 14gear Rohloff gearshift grip on the left, which is only turnable when the acceleration grip is pulled back slightly for a short while. · Right The Clean Mobile motor was developed by the Munich-based firm Clean Mobile for utility pedelecs, which explains why it pulls so strongly on this vehicle. But, on an eSpire one has more fun than on a utility vehicle, because of the high speeds which are attainable. ExtraEnergy.org 169
transport – family
Family Pedelec · With kit, electric motor and caboodle
Why cart child and groceries around in a car, when it can be done by bicycle? Clearly, additional loading capacity, safety and reliability will be important characteristics in this product group. Other prerequisites are a good battery status display and high support at peak loads. Unfortunately, this promising group is still underrepresented. In the test only two pedelecs satisfied the criteria for Family Pedelecs – one was judged to have been “Very Good” and the second to have been “Good”. These vehicles offer environment-conscious transport to the whole family. The Family Pedelec is suited for both family excursions and city trips undertaken with kit and caboodle. As everyday vehicle for parents and children, it must be extremely safe and reliable. A strong motor is a must. After all, it must handle the extra weight of a second 170 ExtraEnergy.org
(small) person, transport accessories such as a child seat or child trailer, and possible other luggage. In other words, it must support well under peak loads (must have a s-factor on the hill of at least 1). The minimum additional loading capacity is 115 kg. A minimum range of 30 km accommodates frequent stopping and starting in the city and shorter excursions without the battery running empty. A reliable battery status display is the be-all and end-all in this regard. A comfortable saddle, suspension, traffic-safe fittings, mudguards and a simple-to-operate user-interface make life easier for families.
transport – family
Test winner familien
test seal
47
Sachs · Elo Bike de luxe
pedelecs in test
od yinngerofamily r e w V tes t
2010 July
The Elo Bike de luxe of Fürth-based company Sachs in Franconia is perfectly adapted to its home terrain. Strong support on the hill – even under peak load – makes this bike ideal for easy take-offs with a child seat, or child trailer. The maximum permissible weight of 150 kg enables mom to add a few bags of groceries. The good range and clear battery indicator gets her through her busy day safely and reliably – with child, kit and caboodle.
All vehicles in this product category Sachs · Elo-Bike de luxe..................................172 Kalkhoff · Agattu XXL Pedelec C................... 146
ExtraEnergy.org 171
transport – family Pedelec
Sachs Bikes · Elo Bike de Luxe test seal
Product group Family Pedelec C-factor 10 Tour Pedelec C-factor 5
Conclusion Admittedly, the fittings are not as luxurious as the name suggests, but the overall quality of this pedelec (and especially its support) is very good.
On first glance, the Elo Bike de Luxe by Sachs Bikes makes a very luxurious impression. The wide, winding handlebar and enclosed chain case with unostentatious, dynamic design give this pedelec elegance. The effect is much the same as when a pearl necklace is worn with a black dress. But, the components are pearls of the fresh water kind – not very valuable, but solid; effective, without much technical finesse. It has loving, small details, such as the practical, saddle-integrated rain protector and a high loading capacity of over 120 kg. As a result, the price of 2,250 € is not exorbitant. With values of over 1 – even 1.32 on the hill – the TranzX front wheel hub motor supports very well and that at a measured range in the middle of the field. We suggest you re-calibrate the power sensor before every take-off. If that is done, the sensor functions flawlessly, making
172 ExtraEnergy.org
47
pedelecs in test
d gerofamoily y r n Vetest win
2010 July
the re-calibration worth the effort. The battery integrated in the luggage carrier acts as a good counter-weight to the motor in the front wheel. The display is positioned in the middle of the handlebar, which makes the readings very legible. With its good road performance (support and range), low maintenance (thanks to enclosed chain) and high extra loading capacity, this bike satisfied the criteria of the group Family Pedelec best. In fact, it won the group with a c-factor of 10. It also notched up a c-factor of 5 in the group Tour, which makes very similar demands on bikes to the group Family Pedelec.
Pros and Cons + Long range on tour + High extra loading capacity + Enclosed chain case + – Back-pedal brake – Slight delay in motor activation and cut-out – Power sensor should be re-calibrated before every take-off – Heavy
transport – family Pedelec
Sachs Bikes · Elo Bike de Luxe
Measured values Performance on tour 50.0 km 78,0 Range 25.1 km/h 27,7 Average speed 0.92 1,43 Support factor Performance on hill 20.0 km 26,1 Range 19.8 km/h 22,2 Average speed 0.99 1,8 Support factor Performance on city 28.0 km 40,1 Range 14.9 km/h 17,6 Average speed 0.85 1,30 Support factor
Weight Vehicle Battery
28,1 kg 17,4 3,7 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
20.0 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
181 W
183 W
16,3
289 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
1.9 2.5 2.0 2.7 3.5 3.0 2.3 2.0 2.4 3.0 2.8 2.0 2.2 3.3
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 150 kg Motor 250 W TranzX front wheel hub motor Sensor type Movement & torque sensor Battery 360 Wh Li-ion battery (378 Wh from 2010) Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frame 28" Aluminum, step-thru height 350 mm Sizes F 45, 48, 50, 55 cm Fork Suspension fork Spinner Transmission Shimano Nexus 7-gear hub transmission, turn grip Brakes f Tektro v-brake r backpedal (& v-brake from 2010)
SFM GmbH Strawinskystraße 27 b · 90455 Nürnberg
Wheels Alex DH 19 Alu hollow chamber rims f hub motor r Shimano Nexus hub transmission Tires Kenda 42-622, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights f Spanninga Micro r B&M Selectra, side-running dynamo Extras Spring-supported saddle, sidestand, steer stem angle adjustable without tools, enclosed chain case, AXA frame lock
Price Vehicle 2,250 € Price Replacement battery 549 €
Telephone 09 11 423 14 00 Fax 09 11 423 13 32
E-mail info@sfm-bikes.de Web www.sfm-bikes.de
Left The battery and motor controls are housed below the luggage carrier. · Right Practical detail: the rain and mud protection cover is stored inside the saddle and stowed away in a slit after use.
ExtraEnergy.org 173
transport – Utility
Utility · Transporting heavy loads made easy
Like the utility bicycle, the Utility Pedelec is a unique creation, clearly aimed at transporting larger objects, or (several) persons. This is the first time that a vehicle in this product group participated in an ExtraEnergy test. It passed with flying colors, with its strong peak-load support and functional design. Utility Pedelecs can be used in the transport sector, or as an alternative to the automobile when making large purchases. This is a multifunctional vehicle, ie. it can transport cargo (such as mail, pizzas and crates of drinks) and/or people. The minimum extra loading capacity is 135 kg and is fitted with special equipment for fastening cargo and parking the heavy vehicle. 174 ExtraEnergy.org
Utility Pedelecs are very powerful and easily conquer very steep inclines with a lot of luggage. With their powerful motors, these vehicles are faster and safer than conventional cargo bicycles, and even rickshaws. Experienced Utility Pedelec riders value the low maintenance costs and good price-to-performance ratio of these vehicles. Now all kinds of loads can be carted up that hill!
transport – Utility
Test winner lasten
test seal
47
Nihola · Pedelec
pedelecs in test
d lit y geroutio y r n Vetest win
2010 July
The Nihola was the only Utility Pedelec tested, so it might sound funny to read it had won the group. But, the performance of this elegant, smooth-running 3-wheeler with low road resistance and extra loading capacity of 200 kg, made this brave pioneer a true winner. It’s a very good alternative to a city automobile and for families definitely worth considering!
All vehicles in this product category Nihola · Pedelec............................................. 176
ExtraEnergy.org 175
transport – Utility pedelec
Nihola · Pedelec test seal
47
pedelecs in test
d lit y geroutio y r n Vetest win
Product group Utility Pedelec C-factor 10
2010 July
Conclusion The Nihola was the only Utility Pedelec in our test and gave an impressive demonstration of more unusual ways electrical support can be employed.
With a large box in front of the handlebar and signal red rain shield, the Nihola definitely has a place among the most attractive utility vehicles on the market. The test bike’s cargo box had a built-in bench, with space for two children. The BionX motor’s battery sits below the box. The 250 W motor is located, as all BionX motors always are, in the rear wheel hub. Thanks to the direct connection between the cargo box and steer, the Nihola is very easy to handle (for a utility vehicle), although the inexperienced rider will need a while to get used to the directness of the steering. The Sram 7-speed gearshift functions reliably. The vbrake on the rear wheel and drum brake in front decelerate the Nihola effectively. The road test was conducted without cargo, to be able to compare it to other – also unloaded – pedelecs in the test. The 3-wheeler propels forward on level ground very easily, even without support. With the help of the electric motor, the Nihola takes inclines in its stride. To reach a decent speed, the second support level (of 4 levels) is normally sufficient. However, to be able to compare the tested vehicles,
they were all tested at the highest support level. The Nihola’s support was outstanding and despite a weight of 58,5 kg ( taken into account when road-tested), it managed a s-factor of over 1 on the hill. Clearly, inclines were no problem, even fully loaded. Hill-starts (12% gradient at the starting point) had to be tackled in the lowest gear. Otherwise, there might have been minor hiccups. With a bit of momentum, the rider gets up the steepest of slopes with ease. When taking off, the motor hums somewhat – a noise which was intensified by the empty cargo box during testing. On flat stretches, or cobblestoned roads, the jolting gets fairly loud. A blanket placed in the storage box provided some relief. The relatively low speeds measured – compared to normal pedelecs can be attributed to the non-familiarity of the test riders with the particular way of steering and the challenging test route. The turning circle of the Nihola is much bigger than that of normal bicycles. Still, this pedelec went around the test track faster than our (non-motorized) comparison bike. Overall, the Nihola is a good alternative to an automobile, especially in the city. There is lots of space for shopping in the spacious cargo box. Thanks to its almost 200 kg permissible extra loading capacity, children can also hop on board. No-one needs to dread hilly terrain any longer, with the additional power provided by the motor. Unrivalled in the group Utility, the Nihola cleaned up with a c-factor of 10 and a “Very Good” test seal.
Pros and Cons + Power sensor activates motor gently + Motor cuts out smoothly at upper support limit + Highest loading capacity in the test + Recuperation mode – Rider must get used to steering behavior at higher speeds – Knocking sound on uneven ground – Expensive
176 ExtraEnergy.org
transport – Utility pedelec
Nihola · Pedelec
Measured values Performance on tour Range 34.8 km 78,0 Average speed 19.6 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.84 1,43 Performance on hill Range 12.9 km 26,1 Average speed 16.7 km/h 22,2 Support factor 1.11 1,8 Performance on city Range 24.4 km 40,1 Average speed 12.5 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.72 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
58.5 kg 17,4 3.7 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
16,7 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0 152 W
145 W
16,3
378 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
4.0 3.2 4.0 6.0 6.0 6.0 2.2 1.8 2.0 2.4 2.7 1.4 1.3 2.3
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 250 kg Motor 250 W BionX rear wheel hub motor Sensor type Torque sensor Battery 355 Wh Li-ion battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Accurate Frames 20"/26" Steel three-wheel Size 55 cm Uni-size Fork Steel, specially constructed for loads Transmission Sram 7-gear hub transmission, Sram turn handle Brakes f Drum brake r Shimano v-brake
nihola Germany GmbH Pfuelstraße 5 · 10997 Berlin
Wheels f 20" Alu hollow chamber r 26" alu hollow chamber f/r rear wheel hub motor Tires Schwalbe Marathon Plus f 47-406 r 47-559, reflector stripes flat protection Lights f Trelock LED r B&M Flat, side-running dynamo Extras Multifunct. LCD display, 4 support levels, seat for two children (lap strap & cushions for seat), handbrake, rain cover Price Vehicle 4,000 € Price Replacement battery 890 €
Telephone 030 44 73 74 62 Fax
E-mail info@nihola.de Web www.nihola.de
Left The passenger space with bench for two children and lots of space left for the weekend-shopping. · Right The brake can be locked in a way when parked, or when loading, that ensures its immobility– even on uneven surfaces.
ExtraEnergy.org 177
How ExtraEnergy e.V. protects its independence Keeping test results independent Keeping test results independent, is no easy task. But, it is vital. All the more so, when a gold-rush mood sweeps through the industry, as is currently happening. This environment gives birth to envious copycats, who try to discredit ExtraEnergy as a testing body. ExtraEnergy defends its leading position, by emphasizing complete transparency in its tests – all tests are open to the public, meaning anyone may attend and watch how the tests are conducted, and even take a test-ride, or two. We publish the results ourselves, allocating more space to detailed reporting than any other publication. Envious players flatter us and good copycats are welcomed, because even they promote the goal of ExtraEnergy, which is to develop and conduct the best possible tests. Tests help manufacturers isolate product weaknesses early in the lives of their vehicles and so make the manufacturers more competitive. The tests also help dealers and interested consumers to orientate themselves when it comes to purchasing.
Staying independent of manufacturers In 1996 a financial model was introduced for the test, which has stood the test of time right up until today. It requires of manufactures to carry the cost of tests. In return, they get access to the test results before publication. When ExtraEnergy detects serious problems, or defects, the manufacturers are informed immediately. Then ExtraEnergy may advise that a product be removed from the market temporarily, or that the launch of a product be postponed, until improvements have been made. To date this approach has led to the quiet and sudden disappearance of many defective products – and their re-appearance in improved forms, after months of reworking. To date all court actions brought against ExtraEnergy by manufacturers dissatisfied with unfavorable test results, have been unsuccessful. On the other hand, lots of money has been saved by understanding manufacturers, which reacted pro-actively and so prevented later product recalls and image losses. Finally, customers and the market as a whole profit from improved products.
178 ExtraEnergy.org
Faced with these test conditions, manufacturers normally submit their best examples to the test. Facts may be distorted, but generally manufacturers realize they have to adhere to expectations created in the test, when it comes to the customer. When suspicion of manipulation arises, ExtraEnergy may compare the products in dispute with products sold on the market. All tested vehicles remain in the possession of ExtraEnergy, enabling it to repeat tests under judicial supervision at any time. To ensure the full market spectrum is represented, ExtraEnergy buys at least five vehicles for each test. As a rule, ExtraEnergy buys vehicles for which it has received many enquiries from consumers. For instance, in 2009 ExtraEnergy bought and tested a product of the Hamburg-based company Leviatec and described it as „dangerous“. As a consequence, the Hamburg importer instituted legal action against the test result. The court ruled in favor of ExtraEnergy and its test result, thanks to ExtraEnergy’s good test documentation. We have since tested the new model called Leviatec Argentic (result reported on page 164) and found it to be a big improvement on its predecessor.
Maintaining a distance to advertisers Early in 2010 ExtraEnergy launched its own magazine called ExtraEnergy Magazine for Pedelecs and E-bikes. The first issue was financed from test revenue and the sale of magazines. The second issue (current issue) is the fruit of a partnership between ExtraEnergy and the international trade fair organizer Messe München GmbH. This is a big opportunity for ExtraEnergy to introduce the magazine to the market with a wide range of topics. Our partner has no say in the content. Advertising space could be bought for the first time in the second issue of the magazine. Advertising support can and should make the reader suspicious. But, in the ExtraEnergy Magazine, advertisements are never linked to content. Neither is advertising copy disguised as content in the form of so-called “advertorials”. In fact, ExtraEnergy is currently fighting a legal battle against an erstwhile publishing partner, from whom we separated, because (in our opinion) its policies “threatened the neutrality and independence of our test results”. Advertisements – mainly placed by dealers or partners – occupy very little space in this issue, and we deliberately kept them away from the test results.
Others
Others Included under Others are all vehicles not meeting any of the minimum requirements defined by us for the various product groups. Some failed already at the level of the equipment, when for example the light was missing, or there were other significant shortcomings. In other cases the performance levels were too low, or the support too weak. Some did not even manage the minimum range of 20 km. For some pedelecs in the test, the exclusion criteria presented an insurmountable hurdle.
In the test add-on, or conversion kits also fell in the category Others. Conversion kits participated in the test on condition they were fitted to cycles. In other words, it had to be a complete pedelec, and will always only be evaluated as such. In the ergonomic test and road trial, ExtraEnergy tests the entire pedelec system. Thus conversion kits are an interesting addition, but are nonetheless only considered in combination with the cycles to which they have been fitted. In this test there were no pedelecs with conversion kits.
All vehicles in this product category Born2Ride · Modell 2010............................. 180 Excelsior · Alu City.......................................182 ISD · Speedy Aluminum................................. 184 Lasybike.com · Lazydoctor......................... 186 Schmidt · Sylt............................................... 188
ExtraEnergy.org 179
Others
Born2Ride · Modell 2010
Conclusion It is as cheap as it looks and illegal. The good support values cannot conceal the obvious and hidden defects.
The Born2Ride is a good example of the very many, very cheap electric bicycles currently available on the market. On looks alone one would think this product was imported from China – with its plastic-covered, low step-thru frame. The price of 469 €, which is far below the price of a decent bicycle, confirms this impression. Anyone thinking of buying this product should first take a closer look. With a weight of over 41 kg, the bicycle was comfortably the heaviest 2-wheel vehicle in the test. It was the only vehicle in the test with a lead battery and weighed nearly 14 kg – almost as much as the lightest pedelec in the test! The only available frame size is 43 cm, which is very small. Even shorter test riders felt constricted. The taller test rider could have steered with his knees. Still, the extremely soft saddle of the Born2Ride was very comfortable. Other components include a very simple Shimano SIS gearshift, v-brake in the front and a useless hub brake in the rear wheel. The case on the luggage rack, probably meant
as lockable storage space, had to be secured with tape during the tests, because the test riders could not stand the annoying rattling any longer. The rear wheel could not handle small potholes and left the test riders standing with a flat tire on two occasions. The rear wheel hub motor supported the heavy bicycle strongly and pushed it over the test track at high speed. Given the large energy loss (due to the weight of the vehicle and good support of the motor), the range was quite respectable. The enormous lead battery can be thanked for that. But, the voltage-based battery charge indicator does not show how much vooma is still left. That’s not the biggest problem. The biggest problem is the motor control. After a short start, the bicycle can be ridden without pedaling, or moving the crank shaft, by simply turning the accelerator handle. This makes it an e-bike, which must be insured. The bell, parking light and two turn indicators seems to confirm this – but it cannot be said for sure, since the manufacturer markets the vehicle as something which can be ridden “without driving license and permit”. Since the motor supports up to 25 km/h, a helmet should be worn. But, the gears are set much too low for the motor, making it difficult to pedal along at speeds as low as 24 km/h. Due to the illegality of this vehicle, and because of the qualitative gaps against other test bikes, the Born2Ride did not fit into any product group and didn’t receive a test seal. Instead, we advise against buying this product.
Pros and Cons + Overall price and battery price low – Obligation to insure not mentioned! It can only be ridden legally on private land. – Battery display indicator very inaccurate – Heavy lead battery (14 kg) – only one in the test – Heaviest bicycle in the test! – Simple rear wheel brake – Rattling case – Very simple components – Gears set too low – Only available with very small frame 180 ExtraEnergy.org
Others
Born2Ride · Modell 2010
Measured values Performance on tour Range 41.4 km 78,0 Average speed 24.5 km/h 27,7 Support factor 1.10 1,43 Performance on hill Range 16.0 km 26,1 Average speed 20.3 km/h 22,2 Support factor 1.16 1,8 Performance on city Range 19.7 km 40,1 Average speed 16.1 km/h 17,6 Support factor 1.01 1,30
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
20,3 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0 179 W
160 W
354 W
16,3
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
– – – – – – – – – – – – – –
nicht teilgenommen
Weight Vehicle Battery
41.4 kg 17,4 13.6 kg 1,1
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight Motor 250 W rear wheel hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 432 Wh lead battery, removable & lockable Battery charge status indicator Inaccurate (voltage-based) Frames 26" Aluminum 6061, plastic cover Size F 43 cm Fork Zoom suspension fork Transmission Shimano SIS Index 6-gear chain transmission, turn handle Brakes f Wuxing 4-finger r v-brake r Wuxing SP90-5 drum brake
Born2Ride GmbH Kuhleshütte 7–13 · 47809 Krefeld
Wheels f/r Alloy Rims Samson SS25 hollow chamber r rear wheel hub motor Tires Feichi Tyre 47-559 Lights f Kesen 36 V LED r LED, no dynamo Extras 1 Support level, sidestand, indicator at back, parking light, horn Price Vehicle 469 € Price Replacement battery 79 €
Telephone 021 51 931 95 96 Fax 021 51 931 95 98
E-mail info@born2ride.de Web www.born2ride.biz
Left The lights do not conform to the law. The transport box made such a noise, that our test riders fixed it with adhesive tape to bring the lid under control. The long battery can only be removed after the saddle was clapped back. · Right Remarkable that there are still manufacturers doing this: use the strongly prohibited (in Europe) inlet connector for non-heating appliances. The call-back of the product by the manufacturer is thereby almost guaranteed. ExtraEnergy.org 181
Others
Excelsior · Alu City
Conclusion The Excelsior has good points, but ended in the bottom half of the test field, due to its simple and unsatisfactory electronics.
On the Alu City the battery is hidden in the widened seat stay. The power supply is only visible on second look. With its 115 Wh and weight of 1.1 kg, it was also the smallest battery in the test. It is sufficient for short rides in the city, but cannot be used for very long excursions. The bicycle comes with a second battery, placed in a purpose-made bag on the luggage rack. The other fittings of the Excelsior are simple, but functional, with a Sram 7 hub gearshift, Promax v-brakes and Busch und Müller Lumotec lighting system.
The propulsion technology is rather simplistic, with a movement sensor which triggers the 180 W front hub motor very slowly. The latter is controlled via a very small, difficult-to-operate, turning handle. The handle will definitely cause joints to cramp, if used on longer trips. The battery display on the handlebar is voltage-based, and inaccurate. But, the Excelsior gives a comfortable ride back home – even without a motor. It is also good for a few unpleasant surprises: forget to turn the motor off, when parking the bicycle, and you may come back to a flat battery. Be warned: it does not turn off automatically. During regular rides, the pleasant motor support makes for easy-going hill-climbing experiences. On the downhill the Excelsior does not roll easily. Starting from about 27 km/h, the motor develops a clear braking action, as if recuperating. But, the Excelsior doesn’t have an energy recovery function. Accelerate the Excelsior to high speeds on steep downhills and the front wheel fork starts buckling dangerously. Due to the over-simplistic propulsion technology and malfunctioning motor on descents, the Excelsior did not make it into a product group. Despite its interesting battery solution, this pedelec is not recommended.
Pros and Cons + Second battery (included) stretches the range on tour sub-section + Assistance at take-off + – Back-pedal brake – Battery discharges if not switched off; no automatic turn-off – Low range with one battery
182 ExtraEnergy.org
Others
Excelsior · Alu City
Measured values Performance on tour Range 55.0 km 78,0 Average speed 21.7 km/h 27,7 Support factor 0.63 1,43 Performance on hill Range 18.6 km 26,1 Average speed 16.3 km/h 22,2 Support factor 0.64 1,8
Efficiency triangle 24,2 19,6
Geschwindigkeit
0,63
16,7 km/h
12,1 15,6 0,64 0
Performance on city Range 21.4 km 40,1 Average speed 13.8 km/h 17,6 Support factor 0.63 1,30
16,3 12,5
125 W 147 W
161 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
– – – – – – – – – – – – – –
nicht teilgenommen
Weight Vehicle Battery
24.0 kg 17,4 1.1 kg 1,1
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight Motor 180 W front hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 115 Wh Li-ion battery, removable, lockable and replacement battery Battery charge status indicator Inaccurate (voltage-based) Frame 26" 7005 Aluminum Size F 44 cm Fork Suspension fork Transmission Sram S7 7-gear hub transmission, turn grip
Hermann Hartje KG Deichstraße 120–122 · 27318 Hoya
Brakes f/r Promax 4-finger v-brake r backpedal brake Wheels f/r Schürmann alu high-shoulder f front hub motor r Sram hub transmission Tires Schwalbe City Plus 47-559/622, reflector stripes, flat protection Lights f B&M Lumotec oval r Basta Ray Steady, side dynamo Trio Basta Extras 1 Support level, height-adj. sidestand, angle-adj. front stem, alu luggage carrier Price Vehicle 1,149 € Price Replacement battery ca. 250 €
Telephone 042 51 81 15 00 Fax 04 251 81 11 59
E-mail info@hartje.de Web www.e-rad.de
Left The battery is housed very unobtrusively in the double-pipe of the saddle. When the battery is flat, it can be replaced by a second battery (supplied as part of the kit in another saddle bag). Only the battery built into the frame can be secured with the lock. The manufacturer wanted to make a battery small enough not to fall under the regulations of “dangerous goods transportation”. But, it isn’t small enough. To avoid the transport prescriptions, it has to be smaller than 100 Wh.· Right The control center with light organ – which gives inaccurate readings for the battery charge status – and the on/off switch, which doesn’t switch off automatically, as is the norm for good pedelecs. With all this technology, a little bit "more electronic" grips would have made a big difference to the vehicle.
ExtraEnergy.org 183
Others
ISD · Speedy Aluminium
Conclusion The ISD Speedy Aluminum is a scary-beautiful example of consumer deceit. Such a product can bring a whole class of vehicles into disrepute and starve an emerging market of oxygen.
The ISD Speedy Aluminum makes an extravagant appearance. A few vol- The ISD Speedy Aluminum is sold exclusively in France, which helps to unteer testers at the ergonomic test also liked its design. Careful! On explain why pedelecs have such a bad name in France. All the more so, second glance, it will become clear that this vehicle is a sham package. if there is truth in the rumor that the ISD is the biggest seller in France. Pedelec sales climbed steadily in France until two years ago, when they The bike is sold for 1,654 €, which is a lot for a polished aluminum started to stagnate. No wonder, with such overpriced, factory-fresh frame with the cheapest possible components and a motor which un- junk on offer on the French market. derperforms in every respect. At least, spare parts can be ordered for the Speedy Aluminum. For a hefty consideration, even the smallest bolt can be ordered. Pros and Cons – Delayed activation and cut-out of motor Already in the first part of our test (the ergonomic test) the ISD picked – Heavy up problems. On the very first day the bottom brackets loosened irrep – Glaring mechanical shortcomings (bottom bracket) arably on both specimens submitted to the test. Both bikes finally dis – Battery not water-tight qualified themselves on the first day of the measured rides in Tanna. – Extremely overpriced (overall price and price of battery) Apparently, the batteries didn’t like the cold, wet conditions in Thur – Inaccurate battery charge indicator ingia, and instead of performing, they produced bad odors. – Basic components Sadly, when bikes of such bad quality are sold at such outrageous pric – Difficult to cycle without motor es, they bring a whole market in disrepute.
184 ExtraEnergy.org
Others
ISD · Speedy Aluminium
Measured values Performance on tour Range – km 78,0 Average speed – km/h 27,7 Support factor – 1,43 Performance on hill – km 26,1 Range – km/h 22,2 Average speed Support factor – 1,8 Performance on city – km 40,1 Range – km/h 17,6 Average speed Support factor – 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
28,0 kg 17,4 3,5 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 19,6 0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
e test-rid ible to s s own o d p e t k o s bro n e It was n im c sp e t day. e. Both the firs n this bik o ly b a irrepar
16,3 12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
3.1 2.7 2.4 4.4 5.0 4.5 3.1 3.8 3.9 4.6 3.7 3.7 2.8 4.6
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 150 kg Motor 250 W front hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 370 Wh Li-ion battery, removable and lockable Battery charge status indicator Inaccurate Frame 26" Aluminum Size 43 cm Fork Suspension fork Transmission Shimano Inter3 3-gear hub transmission, turn handle
ISD Division Vélos Electriques Kénéah Sud · 56400 Plougoumelen France
Brakes f V-brake r drum brake Wheels Samson alu rims f front hub motor r hub transmission Tires 47-559 Lights Halogen lights Extras Rear wheel flip stand, handlebar basket, angle-adj. front stem, alu luggage carrier with lockable box Price Vehicle 1,654 € Price Replacement battery 559 €
Telephone 0033 297 58 89 55 Fax 0033 297 58 89 50
E-mail info@velo-electrique.com Web www.velo-electrique.com
Left A funny detail: on first glance we have to do here with the strongly prohibited inlet connector for non-heating appliances. But, take a second look and you’ll see a pin has been inserted skew to make it impossible to exchange the inlet connector! · Right The display with the very inaccurate battery capacity indicator is housed in the headlamp.
ExtraEnergy.org 185
Others
Lazybikes.com · Lazydoctor
Conclusion This is a playful concept with average values and an unbeatable price. To get to the good price, the manufacturer had to compromise on quality. Still, it’s perfectly suited for cycling from the tent to the beach and to the festivities at night.
The company Lazybikes from Spain has no qualms about building an image for electric vehicles as “bikes for lazy people”. The Lazydoctor has something playful about it. In fact, it is more of a toy bike than a serious pedelec. In the ergonomic test the testers liked its usability in everyday situations, but a closer look quickly revealed problems. The Lazydoctor is only available in one frame size – the very small 40s model. On the road it feels very unstable. Apart from the Shimano Altus gearshift, the components are not of very good quality. The angle-adjustable front stem, is a good idea badly executed with a permanent play, making it wobble, and thin hand grips with little grip. There is no light. At 0.87 (on the tour), 0.81 (on the hill) and 1.18 (on the city sub-sections) the support of the 180 W rear wheel hub motor is average. Unfortunately, it only has a single support level. Still, with such a quiet motor, the price of 729 € remains a challenge to competitors. The range was measured in the middle of the test field and could be stretched easily with an extra battery costing only 200 €.
186 ExtraEnergy.org
The playful approach appeals, but the Lazydoctor lacks substance for the top league. Due to the very cheap components, such as the simple movement sensor, voltage-based display and the completely absent light, this Lazybike model didn’t make it into any product category and was awarded no test seal, despite the mostly good test values.
Pros and Cons – No light – Short range – Delayed activation and cut-out of motor – No take-off support – Only one support level – Saddle must be taken off to remove battery – Basic components – Only available in one, very small frame size – Angle-adjustable front stem has lots of play
Others
Lazybikes.com · Lazydoctor
Measured values Performance on tour 29.8 km 78,0 Range 21.2 km/h 27,7 Average speed Support factor 0.87 1,43 Performance on hill 12.3 km 26,1 Range 16.2 km/h 22,2 Average speed Support factor 0.81 1,8 Performance on city 16.4 km 40,1 Range 13.4 km/h 17,6 Average speed Support factor 1.18 1,30
Weight Vehicle Battery
22,9 kg 17,4 3,0 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
16.2 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0 114 W 141 W
16,3
204 W
Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.2 2.3 1.8 3.7 3.8 2.9 2.8 3.3 2.8 3.2 2.0 3.0 2.3 3.5
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 120 kg Motor 180 W rear wheel hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 192 Wh Li-ion battery Battery charge status indicator Inaccurate (on handlebar), accurate (on battery) Frame 26" Aluminum Size 40 cm Fork TGS suspension fork
Lazybikes Europe C /Llull, 68 · 08005 Barcelona Spain
Transmission Shimano Altus 7-gear chain transmission, turn handle Brakes f/r V-brakes Wheels Star Circle hollow chamber rims f Joytech r hub motor Tires Kenda 47-559 Lights None Extras angle-adj. front stem, sidestand, alu luggage carrier Price Vehicle 729 € Price Replacement battery 200 €
Telephone 069 257 38 58 78 Fax –
E-mail info@lazybikes.com Web www.lazybikes.com
Left The battery with start key. To remove it, the saddle must be pulled far forward, or (even better) taken off completely. · Right The transmission hub motor pulls powerfully, without emitting annoying noises.
ExtraEnergy.org 187
Others
Schmidt · Sylt
Conclusion What appears to be plain and strong quickly emerges as an unsafe partner. This pedelec is not worth the low price of 1,399 € – if you plan to cycle for more than a single summer.
A plain contemporary which looks a lot like a bicycle and has something to offer in the line of riding performance – all at the very good price of 1,399 €. Lovers of back-pedal brakes will feel well-catered for with this bike, which also has two hand brakes. But be careful – looks deceive.
When the test riders looked closer, the Schmidt Sylt was quickly unmasked as a wolf in sheep’s clothing. The battery rattled in its casing and on closer inspection made all but a confidence-building impression. For instance, the contacts inside the aluminum casing are only insolated from the casing with a thin polythene film. The high s-factor of 1.27 and sufficient range of 35.8 on the tour sub-section is deceptive. The three gears of this pedelec have only very minimal impact, making it practically impossible to pedal along at higher speeds (above 20 km/h) and forcing the rider to have him pushed along. Clearly, the comparison with the reference bike and the Schmidt Sylt will then appear to favor the pedelec. At the takeoff the motor only kicks in after a long delay and the frame tends to wobble. Furthermore, the speed lever can not really be used, while it was mounted incorrectly. This is tough on the nice Kardan motor, which would certainly have displayed its strengths much better mounted on a better bike. The Schmidt Sylt failed to meet the minimum standards in any product category and, therefore, did not get any test seals from ExtraEnergy. Pros and Cons + High extra loading capacity + – Back-pedal brake – Frame tends to wobble – Delayed activation and cut-out of motor – Badly isolated contacts in battery case – Battery indicator inaccurate – Battery rattles – 3-gear gearshift ineffective – Accelerator lever not functional, since mounted incorrectly
188 ExtraEnergy.org
Others
Schmidt · Sylt
Measured values Performance on tour 35.8 km 78,0 Range 23.9 km/h 27,7 Average speed 1.27 1,43 Support factor Performance on hill 13.5 km 26,1 Range 16.6 km/h 22,2 Average speed 0.96 1,8 Support factor Performance on city – km 40,1 Range – km/h 17,6 Average speed – 1,30 Support factor
Weight Vehicle Battery
24.4 kg 17,4 2.5 kg 1,1
Efficiency triangle 24,2 Geschwindigkeit
19,6
16.6 km/h
0,63
12,1 15,6 0,64
0
175 W 182 W 238 W
16,3 Tretleistung
Motorleistung
12,5 0,61
Ergonomic test Battery removal Clear allocation of charger Battery insertion Fixing on luggage carrier Portability Lift above loading edge Ergonomic adjustment Driving mode switch Driving behaviour with motor Driving behaviour without motor Volume of the engine Ease of use Stability if parked Design and looks
2.9 3.0 2.9 2.7 2.7 2.5 2.9 2.0 2.9 2.7 2.0 2.7 2.4 3.0
58,5 13,6
Bike data Approved overall weight 144 kg Motor 180 W front hub motor Sensor type Movement sensor Battery 240 Wh Li-ion battery Battery charge status indicator Inaccurate (voltage-based) Frame 26" Aluminum Size 52 cm Fork Alu suspension fork Transmission Shimano 3-gear hub transmission
Bikesking Hoffnung-Privatweg 92 · 39118 Magdeburg
Brakes f V-brake r drum brake, backpedal Wheels 26" HJC rims f front hub motor r hub transmission Tires 40-559, reflector stripes Lights f Halogen headlamp r LED, side-running dynamo Extras Angle-adj. front stem, Kardan motor
Price Vehicle 1,399 € Price Replacement battery 350 €
Telephone 03 91 636 65 47 Fax 03 91 627 18 27
E-mail info@bikesking.de Web www.bikesking.de
Left The beautiful Kardan motor with 3-gear hub and backpedal brake. · Right The thumb switch which is not usable, since it was mounted the wrong way arround. ExtraEnergy.org 189
Trade Directory
This trade directory includes a selection of German traders only.
Trade Directory
Listed according to postal codes If you are interested in being included in the next English issue of the magazine (due in Spring 2011) please contact: dealers@extraenergy.org
Tretmühle Dresden
Alte Dresdener Straße 1
01108 Dresden
tretmuehle.de
Fahrrad Riemer Sales-Accessories-Service
Oschatzer Straße 19–21
01127 Dresden
0351 8492393 fahrradriemer.de
Fahrrad XXL Emporon
Overbeck Straße 39
01139 Dresden
0351 843537-10 fahrrad-xxl.de
Fahrrad XXL Emporon
Dohnaer Straße 250
01257 Dresden
0351 84389-715 fahrrad-xxl.de
Drahtesel 2000 e. K. Detlef Möschwitzer
Neubert Straße 29
01307 Dresden
0351 4425666 drahtesel2000.de
d Tretmühle Radebeul Flyer Center
Moritzburger Straße 11
01445 Radebeul
0351 8956363 tretmuehle.de
Fahrrad XXL Emporon
Zittauer Straße 21 (B 98)
01904 Neukirch (Lausitz)
035951 3497-16 fahrrad-xxl.de
d Bike Department Ost GmbH
Karl-Liebknecht-Straße 31
04107 Leipzig
0341 6893334 bdoleipzig.de
Fahrrad XXL Emporon
Delitzscher Straße 63a
06112 Halle (Saale)
0345 57543-67 fahrrad-xxl.de
d BikeMike
Loh Straße 2
07381 Pößneck
03647 449991 bike-mike.net
Elvec Elektro Vehicle Center
Am Austeg 10
07907 Schleiz
01520 4238848 elvec.de
Zweiradhaus Drygalla
Am Parkplatz 7/C
18230 Ostseebad Rerik
038296 78442 rerikrad.de.vu
d eBike Company GmbH
Lindenplatz 1
20099 Hamburg
040 209332210 ebikestore.de
Fahrrad XXL Marcks
Curslacker Neuer Deich 38
21029 Hamburg-Bergedorf
040 724157-0 fahrrad-xxl.de
Fahrrad Louis Jörg Hemmann
Bahnhof Straße 51
21255 Tostedt
04182 5730 fahrrad-Louis.de
Zweirad Ehrig GmbH
Claus-Ferck-Straße 39
22359 Hamburg
040 60345001 ehrig24.de
Fahrradhaus Scholz
Langenhorner Chaussee 157
22415 Hamburg
040 53177 44 fahrradhaus-scholz.de
global move e. K. Kay Schäfer
Sierksdorfer Straße 25
23730 Neustadt
04561 527200 global-move.com
Fahrrad Petersen Peter Petersen
Hafermarkt 19
24943 Flensburg
0461 141310 fahrradpetersen.de
Zweiradcenter Hackmann
Gewerbegebiet Süd
26892 Dörpen
04963 734 e-bike.de
Zweirad Center Heinrich
Haupt Straße 54
28857 Syke
04242 60474 heinrich-syke.de
d Per Pedal H. Schomburg
Herrlichkeit 36 (B6)
28857 Syke
04242 9295090 perpedal.de
Zweirad-Fachwerk
Kapellenweg 6
30966 Hemmingen
0511 4508497 zweirad-fachwerk.de
Hempelmann Lippe-Bikes T. Hempelmann e. K.
Detmolder Straße 27
32791 Lage
05232 3389 lippe-bikes.de
Fahrrad XXL Born
Detmolder Straße 44–46
33100 Paderborn
05251 5235-35 fahrrad-xxl.de
A. Ciliox Elektro-Leichtfahrzeuge
Winkel Straße 1
35713 Eschenburg
02774 918477 leichter-fahren.de
iSY_A7_farbig.qxd
18.2.2010
10:59 Uhr
Elektrofahrzeuge für den Norden! Große Ausstellung mit ständig aktuellen Modellen. Eigene Werkstatt für Reparatur und Wartung. Probefahren jederzeit nach Terminvereinbarung möglich. Vermietung für Ausflüge, Wochenenden oder Urlaub. Wir sind Ihr kompetenter Partner rund um das Thema Elektrofahrzeuge.
ARTWORK „SACHS BIKES“
Elektrozweiräder.de e.K. Kurt-Fischer-Str. 24 22926 Ahrensburg Tel. 04102 824 95 77 Fax: 04102 459679 www.elektrozweiraeder.de
Biketec AG | Schwende 1 | CH-4950 Huttwil /BE Tel. +41 (0)62 959 55 55 | info@flyer.ch | www.flyer.ch
190 ExtraEnergy.org
atzdatei_az_04_94x63_mm_fuer_de1 1
18.06.2010 10:00:05
Seite 1
Trade Directory
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Trade Directory
Listed according to postal codes If you are interested in being included in the next English issue of the magazine (due in Spring 2011) please contact: dealers@extraenergy.org
Zweirad Busche Pedelec Center
Haupt Straße 18
37431 Bad Lauterberg
05524 3627 zweirad-busche.de
Fritz Schael GmbH & Co KG
Kleist Straße 5
38440 Wolfsburg
05361 14064 zweirad-schael.de
Zweirad Busche Pedelec Zentrum am Bikepark
Am Amtsweg 6
38700 Braunlage
0151 23300116 zweirad-busche.de
d Der Zweirad Experte in Wuppertal
Friedrich-Ebert-Straße 131G
41117 Wuppertal
0202 42997490 der-zweirad-experte.de
Zweiräder R. Biernath
Grün Straße 7
42697 Solingen
0212 79610 zweiraeder-biernath.de
Zweirad-Center Schmitz
Mars Straße 25/B 235
44579 Castrop-Rauxel
02305 358040 zweirad-schmitz.com
d Fahrrad Fiolka
Castraßeper Straße 156–158
45711 Datteln
02363 361616 fahrrad-fiolka.de
Erich Kimmel e. K. Mechthild Kimmel
Stimberg Straße 181–183
45739 Oer-Erkenschwick
02368 1204
Fahrrad XXL Meinhövel
Mühlen Straße 35
45894 Gelsenkirchen-Buer
0209 93079-0 fahrrad-xxl.de
d Fahrrad Niebur Pascal van Heek
Münster Straße 249
46397 Bocholt
02871 8757 fahrrad-niebur.de
Fahrrad XXL Hürter
Hammer Straße 420
48153 Münster
0251 97803-0 fahrrad-xxl.de
d 2-Rad-Baumeister e. K. E-Rad-Center
Dülmener Straße 73
48653 Coesfeld
02541 2509 2rad-baumeister.de
Zweiradhaus Sprenger & Brünink
Alter Pyer Kirchweg 7
49134 Wallenhorst
05407 39834 sprenger-bruenink.de
d Zweiradhaus Sprenger & Brünink
Alter Pyer Kirchweg 7
49134 Wallenhorst
05407 39834 sprenger-bruenink.de
Rad-Sport Schriewer
Osnabrücker Straße 17
49176 Hilter
05424 39063 radsport-schriewer.de
d Der Fahrradladen Inh. Heiner Meyer
Langen Straße 59
49624 Löningen
05432 902106 fahrradladen-loeningen.de
Radsport Mittelstädt GmbH
Wupper Straße 13–15
51371 Leverkusen
0214 8200900 mittelstaedt.de
d Dr. Cycle & Mrs. Bike
Bahnhof Straße 16a
53604 Bad Honnef
02224 9018025 doctorcycle.de
Fahrrad XXL Feld
Einstein Straße 35
53757 St.-Augustin
02241 977361 fahrrad-xxl.de
d Kraft Rad GmbH
Roitzheimer Straße 113
53879 Euskirchen
02251 2758 elektrorad-online.de
Fahrradladen Berens & Reus GmbH
Albini Straße 15
55116 Mainz
06131 225013 fahrradladen-Mainz.de
Flyer - vom I:SY bis zur S-Klasse BionX - in MTB Cycletech und KTM Giant - die ganze Palette der Twists Koga Miyata Raleigh Sparta KTM Winora Town:exp
Großes Elektrorad Kompetenz Center Leih- und Testräder
ExtraEnergy.org 191
Trade Directory
This trade directory includes a selection of German traders only.
Trade Directory
Listed according to postal codes If you are interested in being included in the next English issue of the magazine (due in Spring 2011) please contact: dealers@extraenergy.org
d die Radgeber Kleinhans & Schleifenbaum GbR
Hintere Bleiche 3 & 7
55116 Mainz
06131 372444 die-Radgeber.de
Fahrrad XXL Franz
Am Mombacher Kreisel 2
55120 Mainz
06131 62229-0 fahrrad-xxl.de
Fahrrad XXL Franz
Hohenfelder Straße 5
56068 Koblenz
0261 91505-0 fahrrad-xxl.de
Laufradracing Bikes e. K. Achim Hölz
Bahnhof Straße 27
56112 Lahnstein
02621 62197 laufrad.com
Fahrrad XXL Franz
Industraßee Straße 18–20
56218 Mülheim-Kärlich
0261 133686-50 fahrrad-xxl.de
Fahrrad Schwarz Andreas Schwarz
Untergrüner Straße 169
58644 Iserlohn
02374 16054 technobull.de
d Denfeld GmbH Fahrräder-Radsport-Service
Alte Sattelfabrik 8
61350 Bad Homburg
06172 3991-0 denfeld.de
d Lautlos Durch Rhein-Main Elektrofahrzeuge
Solmische Weiher Straße 17
63303 Dreieich
06103 3869449 lautlos-durch-rhein-main.de
mb-rad-sport
Am Bahnhof 2
63916 Amorbach
09373 203555 mb-rad-sport.de
fahrradfuchs feine räder
Darmstädter Straße 36
64521 Groß-Gerau
06152 55795 fahrrad-fuchs.de
Olek's Radsport
Mathilden Straße 54
64683 Einhausen
06251 53039 oleks-radsport.de
Profile Schauss Der Fahrradspezialist
Aar Straße 135
65232 Taunusstein-Hahn
06128 927210 w-schauss.de
Fahrrad Claus
Astheimer Straße 58
65468 Trebur
06147 7915 fahrrad-claus.de
Fahrradklinik Peter Kammann
Am Flachsland 12
65779 Kelkheim
06195 62922 fahrradklinik-kelkheim.de
Fahrrad XXL Kalker
Oder Straße 3
67071 Ludwigshafen
0621 57909-90 fahrrad-xxl.de
meister-rad.de
Bismarck Straße 41
67655 Kaiserslautern
0631 36139773 meister-rad.de
Radhaus Viernheim Elektroradzentrum
Rathaus Straße 56
68519 Viernheim
06204 3953 elektroradzentrum.de
altavelo Fahrradladen Gütter & Kappler GbR
Bergheimer Straße 101
69115 Heidelberg
06221 453649 altavelo.de
Fahrrad Kaiser
Heilbronner Straße 389
70469 Stuttgart-Feuerbach
0711 8596650 fahrrad-kaiser.de
d bike-bar Elektrorad-Zentrum
Gomaringer Straße 23
70597 Stuttgart-Degerloch
0711 762295 bike-bar.de
Fahrrad Kaiser
Hanns-Klemm-Straße 50
71034 Böblingen-Holb
07031 435890 fahrrad-kaiser.de
Rad & Technik
Bilfinger Straße 23/1
71691 Freiberg
07141 250130 radundtechnik.de
RADlager GmbH
Lazarettgasse 19-21
72070 Tübingen
07071 551651 radlager-tuebingen.de
Radkutsche Ezeebike
Auf der Lehr 33
72116 Mössingen
07473 5020777 ezeebike.de
Zweirad Eckstein Walter Eckstein e. K.
Plochinger Straße 5/1
72622 Nürtingen
07022 33302 zweirad-eckstein.de
d Fahrrad Kaiser
Luther Straße 78
73614 Schorndorf
07181 985290 fahrrad-kaiser.de
Fahrrad XXL Walcher
Herrenlandweg 2
73779 Deizisau
07153 8300-0 fahrrad-xxl.de
Bikemax Pforzheim
Karlsruher Straße 49
75179 Pforzheim
07231 1552515 www.bikemax.de
Ihr Spezialist mit über 100 Rädern. Ihr Partner für Flyer, Riese und Müller, Diamant, Victoria, Pegasus, Gepida, BionX, Wheeler, KTM, u.a.
Goethestraße 89, 73525 Schwäbisch Gmünd, Telefon 07171 61565 Goethestr. 89, 73525 Schwäbisch Gmünd, Tel. 07171-61565
192 ExtraEnergy.org
Ihr Spezialist mit
Trade Directory
This trade directory includes a selection of German traders only.
Trade Directory
Listed according to postal codes If you are interested in being included in the next English issue of the magazine (due in Spring 2011) please contact: dealers@extraenergy.org
Zweirad Kern Bicycle & accessories
Im Gereut 4
76770 Hatzenbühl
d Tour-Räder fürs Leben GmbH
Neuer Markt 14
78052 Villingen-Schwenningen 07721 878609-0 tour-vs.de
Zweirad Joos
Schützen Straße 11
78315 Radolfzell
07732 82368-0 zweirad-joos.de
e-Bike-Center Radolfzell
Tegginger Straße 1
78315 Radolfzell
07732 82368-70 zweirad-joos.de
Zweirad Joos Lagerverkauf KN
Am Dachsberg 12
78479 Reichenau-Waldsiedlung 07531 8076718
Zweirad Mueller
Am Mettweg 34
79111 Freiburg
0761 4768256 mueller-bikes.de
Solar elektro velo Hartmut Schmidt
Gupfweg 3
79400 Kandern-Gupf
07626 8427 solarelektrovelo.de
my-e-bike.com Green Future Company GmbH
Nymphenburger Straße 148
80634 München
089 43707300 my-e-bike.com
d esooter.de / ebikecenter.de since 10 years
Adi-Maislinger-Straße 7
81373 München
089 57951905 escooter.de
d eBike Oberland GmbH
Meichelbeck Straße 30
83671 Benediktbeuern
08857 899961 ebike-oberland.de
Fahrrad XXL Radhaus
Bei der Arena 7
85053 Ingolstadt
0841 73027 fahrrad-xxl.de
Sport Wittmann Andreas Wittmann
Rabenweg 9
85356 Freising
08161 85499 sport-wittmann.de
d Fahrräder Röckemann
Christl-Cranz-Straße 2
85375 Neufahrn
08165 7148 roeckemann.de
d Radhaus Team Diel GmbH
Otto Straße 132
85521 Riemerling/Ottobrunn
089 616331 team-diel.de
Zweirad Galli Fahrradfachgeschäft & Werkstatt
Haupt Straße 108
86668 Karlshuld
08454 2193
d Rad-Häusl Elektro-Kompetenz-Center
Industraßee Straße 11a
86919 Utting
08806 538 rad-haeusl.de
Weidemann Fahrrad & E-Bike Center
Zum Degenhardt 29
88662 Überlingen
07551 948255 fahrdadshop.com
Staffas-Fahrradladen
Bahnhofplatz 11
89518 Heidenheim
07321 929444 staffas-fahrradladen.de
Zentralrad Fürth
Most Straße 25
90762 Fürth
0911 746090 zentralrad-fuerth.de
d Elektro-Rad-Kompetenz-Center
Alter Markt 2A
91056 Erlangen
09131 993171 elektro-rad-kompetenz-center.de
Zweiradfachgeschäft Maicher
Schalkhäuser Straße 18
91522 Ansbach
0981 94434 maicher.zeg.de
d FXSports Felix Schmitt
Friedrich-Ebert-Straße 2
97204 Höchberg
0931 4049632 fxsports.de
07275 3399 zweirad-kern.de
fahrradlagerverkauf.com
This could be your ad Book your advert today The next issue will be out in spring 2011 Contact: dealers@extraenergy.org
ExtraEnergy.org 193
übersicht
Measured values Tour
Page
Product category
Test seal
Range
Speed
S-factor
Range
Speed
S-factor
76 78 158 180 126 80 152 116 182 128 120 130 132 82 144 160 84 184 86 88 146 90 92 94 162 154 186 164 140 96 166 176 122 98 100 102 134 172 188 104 168 136 106 108 110 148 112
Easy Easy Wellness – City Comfort Easy Sport Business – City Comfort Mixed Mobility City Comfort City Comfort Easy Tour Wellness Easy – Easy Easy Tour Easy Easy Easy Wellness Sport – Wellness Classic Easy Wellness Transport Mixed Mobility Easy Easy Easy City Comfort Family – Easy Wellness City Comfort Easy Easy Easy Tour Easy
G G G – G G VG TW – G TW VG TW VG TW G G – TW VG VG G G G VG VG – – TW G G TW G – G G VG TW – – TW VG G G VG VG G
46,8 49,8 40,0 41,4 56,5 38,9 31,2 58,8 55,0 41,2 52,3 42,5 50,5 53,1 69,7 24,6 42,5 k.A. 44,4 52,5 44,7 47,9 43,5 43,4 48,4 62,9 29,8 83,6 44,5 42,2 35,8 34,8 41,7 24,2 46,6 37,3 33,8 50,0 35,8 31,8 58,2 46,5 40,5 35,2 41,6 50,6 57,0
26,2 21,9 26,4 24,5 24,7 24,8 28,8 28,8 21,7 25,7 22,5 24,8 27,7 21,5 22,2 30,9 25,2 k.A. 24,8 24,6 24,7 23,2 22,8 24,8 24,9 25,8 21,2 23,6 25,2 21,2 27,8 19,6 23,5 21,2 23,3 23,0 29,9 25,1 23,9 24,1 34,9 27,7 26,6 23,6 24,2 27,5 25,5
1,22 0,64 1,03 1,10 1,11 0,92 1,76 1,10 0,63 0,84 0,69 1,11 1,27 0,77 0,71 2,94 1,43 k.A. 1,00 0,69 0,73 0,68 0,66 0,84 1,08 0,99 0,87 0,75 1,34 0,78 1,22 0,84 0,95 1,05 0,87 0,79 2,20 0,92 1,27 1,00 2,26 1,35 1,31 1,25 0,96 1,33 1,35
18,8 21,2 21,6 16,0 22,9 12,5 14,9 37,5 18,6 19,5 22,2 21,5 29,0 15,5 19,5 15,4 14,9 k.A. 22,0 20,3 15,1 20,5 21,3 15,1 16,1 22,3 12,3 26,1 18,7 19,1 18,0 12,9 17,6 12,1 17,4 16,3 18,1 20,0 13,5 15,9 34,8 17,1 14,8 16,4 20,0 20,0 19,8
21,5 16,4 19,9 20,3 20,5 19,0 24,7 25,6 16,3 19,9 18,8 18,5 22,4 17,6 17,9 23,8 20,5 k.A. 20,3 18,2 16,7 15,6 16,7 17,1 21,7 22,2 16,2 19,1 22,0 16,3 20,5 16,7 17,2 17,4 17,4 16,4 24,6 19,8 16,6 19,7 30,4 21,5 20,1 18,7 19,6 21,7 21,5
1,30 0,72 0,93 1,16 1,27 0,84 1,34 1,30 0,64 0,94 0,85 1,02 1,10 1,08 0,79 1,42 1,76 k.A. 1,09 0,73 1,34 0,85 0,83 0,97 1,34 1,09 0,81 1,20 1,63 0,80 0,85 1,11 0,89 0,91 0,70 0,72 1,59 0,99 0,96 1,04 1,72 1,53 1,14 1,45 0,91 1,27 1,32
Name
ave · Eagle BH Bikes · Emotion Avant BH Bikes · Emotion Sport Max+ Born2Ride · Modell 2010 daum electronic · ergo bike pedelec TrekkingH Diamant · SAPHIR+ Diamant · ZOUMA SUPREME+ Dolphin · Express Excelsior Flyer · C9 Premium Flyer · Faltrad NS Flyer · i:SY Street Flyer · X-Serie Street Gepida · Nedao Cruiser Giant · Twist Express RS0 Heinzmann · estelle Sport Heinzmann · estelle Comfort ISD · Speedy Aluminium Kalkhoff · Pro Connect 8G Alfine Kalkhoff · Sahel Pro Disc Kalkhoff · Agattu XXL Pedelec C Kettler · Hybritec Layana Kettler · Hybritec Obra Koga-Miyata · Tesla Tour KTM · eCross KTM · eRace Lazybike · Lazydoctor Leviatec · Argentic Magna Marque · Styriette Moover Comfort · CMF Moover Speed · SPD Nihola · Pedelec Pacific Cycles · IF Reach City DC Prophete · Alurex Raleigh · Dover de Luxe Front Raleigh · Dover de Luxe Premium Sachs · Bikes Electra 3 Sachs · Bikes Elo-Bike de Luxe Schmidt · Sylt Tchibo · Elektro-City-Rad Powerbike Third Element · eSpire Ultra Motor · A2B Hybrid Victoria · Malente Sport Victoria · Münsterland Vital Bike · Tour Y Vitalbike · individual Sport Diamant Winora · town e:xp
194 ExtraEnergy.org
Hill
übersicht
Range
Speed
S-factor
Weight
Overall weight
Backpedal brake
Motor type
Sensor type
Price
City
25,5 31,7 25,9 19,7 33,5 18,3 17,6 47,6 21,4 28,2 28,0 26,5 36,2 23,4 26,4 22,5 k.A. k.A. 30,3 31,9 k.A. k.A. 30,0 k.A. 27,4 28,1 16,4 40,1 21,1 28,4 26,0 24,4 25,8 16,3 26,4 27,6 19,8 28,0 k.A. 19,0 51,0 22,6 19,7 19,1 22,6 26,8 31,6
16,3 14,0 15,8 16,1 16,0 16,3 17,6 17,8 13,8 14,4 15,4 16,2 16,8 14,8 14,8 16,3 k.A. k.A. 14,8 14,4 k.A. k.A. 14,2 k.A. 15,9 17,6 13,4 15,0 16,5 13,3 16,6 12,5 14,6 13,0 15,2 13,4 16,6 14,9 k.A. 14,3 17,5 16,2 16,6 14,6 14,9 16,5 16,6
1,15 0,72 0,95 1,01 0,88 0,80 0,90 0,63 0,63 0,86 0,76 0,82 0,82 1,10 0,61 0,92 k.A. k.A. 0,87 0,68 k.A. k.A. 0,76 k.A. 1,11 0,99 1,18 0,78 1,14 0,87 0,69 0,72 0,75 1,10 0,76 0,88 1,25 0,85 k.A. 1,06 1,25 1,02 0,89 0,90 1,34 0,97 1,06
27,9 24,5 19,6 41,4 27,8 22,7 21,6 31,8 24,0 25,4 21,4 23,0 25,8 23,8 23,4 25,6 27,4 28,0 21,3 22,2 25,6 25,8 24,3 29,7 23,3 22,0 22,9 23,1 26,8 23,6 18,1 58,5 17,4 27,7 24,8 24,8 29,9 28,1 24,4 26,5 37,3 30,7 24,0 22,6 23,7 21,4 26,8
140 120 140 120 120 120 120 136 125 130 130 130 120 120 120 143 120 130 150 120 120 170 120 120 140 140 138 120 133 140 120 120 250 119 120 128 120 150 150 144 150 140 145 120 130 132 137
no no no no no no no no yes no no no no no no no yes no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no yes yes no yes yes yes yes no no yes yes yes no no
F M M H M H H H F M M M M M F F F F M M M M M H H H H H H M M H M F F M F F F F M H F F F F H
M&T T T M T T T T M T T T T T T M M M T T T T T T T T M M T T T T T M T T M M&T M M M T M&T M M M M&T
1.999 € 1.899 € 1.999 € 469 € 2.699 € 1.999 € 3.199 € 3.489 € 1.149 € 2.990 € 2.390 € 3.290 € 4.690 € 1.799 € 2.100 € 2.999 € 2.339 € 1.654 € 2.399 € 2.699 € 2.099 € 2.199 € 2.299 € 2.999 € 2.199 € 2.399 € 729 € 798 € 3.199 € 2.215 € 2.848 € 3.999 € 1.900 € 599 € 1.999 € 1.899 € 1.789 € 2.250 € 1.399 € 599 € 6.990 € 2.499 € 1.899 € 1.499 € 2.299 € 2.670 € 2.199 €
Name
ave · Eagle BH Bikes · Emotion Avant BH Bikes · Emotion Sport Max+ Born2Ride · Modell 2010 daum electronic · ergo bike pedelec TrekkingH Diamant · SAPHIR+ Diamant · ZOUMA SUPREME+ Dolphin · Express Excelsior Flyer · C9 Premium Flyer · Faltrad NS Flyer · i:SY Street Flyer · X-Serie Street Gepida · Nedao Cruiser Giant · Twist Express RS0 Heinzmann · estelle Sport Heinzmann · estelle Comfort ISD · Speedy Aluminium Kalkhoff · Pro Connect 8G Alfine Kalkhoff · Sahel Pro Disc Kalkhoff · Agattu XXL Pedelec C Kettler · Hybritec Layana Kettler · Hybritec Obra Koga-Miyata · Tesla Tour KTM · eCross KTM · eRace Lazybike · Lazydoctor Leviatec · Argentic Magna Marque · Styriette Moover Comfort · CMF Moover Speed · SPD Nihola · Pedelec Pacific Cycles · IF Reach City DC Prophete · Alurex Raleigh · Dover de Luxe Front Raleigh · Dover de Luxe Premium Sachs · Bikes Electra 3 Sachs · Bikes Elo-Bike de Luxe Schmidt · Sylt Tchibo · Elektro-City-Rad Powerbike Third Element · eSpire Ultra Motor · A2B Hybrid Victoria · Malente Sport Victoria · Münsterland Vital Bike · Tour Y Vitalbike · individual Sport Diamant Winora · town e:xp
ExtraEnergy.org 195
European Union goes electric Launches GoPedelec! project The EU-promoted GoPedelec! project kicked off in the autumn 2009 and is aimed at promoting pedelecs EU-wide. Ten partners from seven countries organize road shows, a common website and In 2009 4 municipalities, 3 non-profit organizations and 3 private enterprises started cooperating to increase the awareness of pedelecs among EU citizens and political decision-makers. The project, called GoPedelec!, is also aimed at helping Europe reach its sustainability goals. The 9 partners (from Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy and the Netherlands) organized 15 information days in 5 countries. At these road shows citizens and specialists were given a taste of e-supported cycling with a specially designed mobile test track (including a steep ramp) constructed and operated by ExtraEnergy at each information day. Other actions in the GoPedelec! project include independent coaching, access to a large pool of experts, networking and training of specialized
dealers. The project is implemented in many different languages and the online information offers are backed up by ExtraEnergy media. Among others, a pedelec database is being constructed, to guide customers to the best pedelecs for their needs. This selection system is based on ExtraEnergy’s product groups. Other on-going actions on the program include, events, brochures for political decision-makers on how to implement public infrastructure projects and training of dealers. The central aim of the GoPedelec! project was 196 ExtraEnergy.org
further information offers, to convince EU citizens of electric bicycles. The methods used are based on the “best practices” adopted by ExtraEnergyin Germany.
to introduce people to the joys of e-cycling by letting them cycle e-vehicles over the mobile test track on information days. Daniel Hopf attended these events and reports as follows:
Tourism is one of the region’s main sources of revenue. Around the lake pedelecs are a really good and very interesting alternative to cars for tourists.
Austria, Graz ECOMM May 5–7, 2010
The fourth GoPedelec! road show was organized as part of the Balaton Bike Celebration. On the agenda of this bicycle-linked festival were downhill races (there are a few very steep hills), bicycle testing and dirt bike courses. It was a premiere for pedelecs. Visitors were curious to get to know e-bikes. The GoPedelec! test course was located in a beautiful pedestrian zone directly on the shore of Lake Balaton, where it received a steady flow of visitors. Over the 4-day period about 650 testers cycled with the 20 pedelecs – most for the first time. Most were inspired by the “easy-going ride” – climbing hills on a Cruiser with shirt open and flip-flops on the feet, is simply cool. ExtraEnergy will report on the on-going GoPedelec! project again in the next issue of this magazine due to appear in the spring of 2011.
The third stop made by the GoPedelec! road team was at ECOMM (European Conference on Mobility Management). It was the ideal place and event for promoting pedelecs to sector specialists, representatives of related sectors and the broad public. Citizens could already undertake the first test rides on the main square of Graz (market square) one day prior to the ECOMM. The test track was constructed directly in front of the impressive city hall of Graz. The shopping mile in the vicinity and good traffic connections attracted large crowds of people. While the public were testriding the e-vehicles, GoPedelec! experts presented the topic pedelec to 30 representatives of the local administration and bicycle dealers. Afterwards all were welcome to test-ride the exciting vehicles. For the fair, the course was moved to a square in front of the main fair building where ECOMM took place. The veranda of the building gave some protection against the rain in Graz. The operators of the test track quickly realized the importance of their work: many ECOMM attendees never had contact to a pedelec before. The attendees used the intervals to go on extended test-rides. Many people repeated the rides later in the day. In the end over 300 experts attending the ECOMM tested the e-vehicles on the day.
Hungary, Balatonfüred Balaton Bike Festival, June 10–13, 2010 Balatonfüred is a small town with about 13,000 inhabitants on the northern shore of Lake Balaton. Near the water the land is flat and then becomes hilly in the hinterland. Here electric support is most welcome.
LEV Conference 2011 Taipei, Taiwan The LEV Conference 2011 is the largest meeting of the international light electric vehicle (LEV) industry. The conference will take place on March 14th and 15th at the Great Roots Forestry Spa Resort near Taipei City in Taiwan, prior to the Taipei Cycle Show. That way, key decision makers of the bike industry can join the LEV Conference without missing Taipei Cycle Show. This years conference is a joint event by ExtraEnergy e.V. , ITRI (Industrial Technology Research Institute) and TAITRA (Taiwan External Trade Development Council). Electric 2-wheelers have come a long way from being a niche product, to now being one of the most important means of transport for the future. For players in the sector it is crucial to keep up with the trends now and take the right decisions. Current issues are: in which direction is the market developing? What new motors and drive trains have appeared on the market? What are the new drive trains? What is new in battery technology? And last but not least, where are potential saving opportunities? The answers to these questions are vital for success in a growing market with increasing competition. The LEV-Conference program has a dual focus: day 1 is dedicated to framework condition, markets and marketing as well as technology. The second day´s main focus will be on drive train technologies. Interested people can register now and take advantage of the Early Bird discounts. Students will be granted discount at any time. You will find the registration form at www.levconference.org Take part in the future now and secure your profit in a fast-growing market.
Agenda Monday, March 14th 2011 Market overview LEVs E-scooters and pedelecs, growth markets, world market, threats to the market, infrastructure and regulation as well as analysis of target groups Marketing International marketing entry strategies Technology Energy storage, interfaces, specific LEV components, fast charging
Tuesday, March 15th 2011 Drive train Systems from different producers with different specifications
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About us
Pedelec and e-bike tests since 1992 Tanna-based ExtraEnergy e.V. has been conducting independent product tests for the past 18 years. Our tests are recognized worldwide. The first “market review” was published in 1992. It evaluated just 3 electric bicycles. Back then that was the “whole world market for LEVs”, says Hannes Neupert, light electric vehicle (LEV) pioneer from those days. In the early nineties the tests were conducted by volunteers during long night shifts and the test results went mostly unnoticed. Until the day FAZ journalist H.H. Pardey noticed the work being done by ExtraEnergy and wrote a long article in his newspaper. From that day the organization developed quickly and steadily, pulled along by the growing success of the new type of bicycle, the so-called pedelec. Over the years the tests became ever more extensive and elaborate. But, they remained independent. The complex testing methods and authentic results are not always accepted positively by industry players. Some revert to court actions against ExtraEnergy (until today without success), while others heed the test reports and improve their products. Today the organization’s focus is on accelerating the development of the LEV market and pushing for better quality in the market. The ExtraEnergy test seal on tested vehicles help customers distinguish good products from bad and make better buying decisions. Sometimes ExtraEnergy issues unambiguous warnings against buying inferior (mostly imported) and/or overpriced products.
Apart from information dissemination done at trade fairs, a treasure trove of information is also maintained on the website ExtraEnergy.org. This is also where all the test reports can be found. Early in 2010 the organization started publishing the reports in the in-house magazine you are holding in your hands. This is done to maintain the desired independence and transparency. The first online issue of the ExtraEnergy Pedelec and E-Bike Magazine was downloaded over 40,000 times. The test reports help customers make informed purchase decisions and select vehicles that suit them best. Not every pedelec or e-bike is equally good for everyone. To make the search easier, ExtraEnergy introduced so-called product groups. Whether a vehicle is suitable depends on the buyer’s set of demands and priorities. For example a sporty rider, who wants to get up hills easier, make different demands on an evehicle than a family dad who wants to drive his kids to school, sport and piano lessons without the power support failing. Information is definitely important, but a test ride is essential. No matter how often electric bicycles and their support features are described in print – nothing is more important than the actual ride.
Networks for safety and innovation
Recognizing the persuasive power of test-riding, the European Union (EU) approved the financing of the GoPedelec! project and asked that the “best practices” used by ExtraEnergy in Germany be duplicated in other countries of the EU. Other projects in which ExtraEnergy e.V. are involved, include BATSO.org, EnergyBus.org and LEVConference.org. BATSO is a safety standard developed exclusively for LEV batteries. TÜV Rheinland conducts the tests and awards the certificates. The BATNew challenges The first newspaper article on the work of ExtraEnergy were followed SO safety standard is based on the officially prescribed test (transport in 1995 by an invitation from the local bicycle industry association to safety tested to the UN-T standard) and a safety-in-use test (tested organize a special exhibition of tested vehicles and a LEV Conference during riding and charging). at the Intercycle fair. So, 1995 saw two premieres for the organization: conferences and trade fair exhibitions. These activities are still impor- The EnergyBus organization has been working on a standard for electrical LEV components since 2002. It will be released officially in 2011. tant pillars of ExtraEnergy’s work today. The LEV Conference is the largest meeting of the international LEV inIn the early 90s pedelecs were rather unattractive products and few dustry and has taken place annually since 1995, alternating between people showed interest. The association’s work was predominantly Asia and Europe. The next LEV Conference is scheduled for March 2011 done by volunteers as second jobs, or student work. It’s only income at Taipei, Taiwan. came from fairs (eg. the IFMA) and from the Eurobike support program, It is clear to ExtraEnergy e.V. that a network such as the one described which was very small back then. In 1997 ExtraEnergy built its first TEST above, and the variety of services offered to clients and the industry, IT course, which is now a settled part of ExtraEnergy’s appearance at are pre-requisites for establishing LEVs as the clean transport mode of the future. fairs and events. 198 ExtraEnergy.org
About us
The ExtraEnergy Team (left to right) Daniel Hopf · Correspondent, GoPedelec! Michael Brassler · Test rider 2009/10 Michael Burger · Industrial designer Nora Manthey · Editor ExtraEnergy Magazine Andreas Törpsch · Head of Test Heike Zschächner · Office manager Klaus Dellian · Test rider 2009/10 Kristina Nilsson · Test rider 2010 Julien McHardy · Test rider 2010 Harry F. Neumann · Test software, evaluation Andrés Moreno · Test rider, editor of vehiculosverdes.com Hannes Neupert · 1. Chairman Susanne Brüsch · Photo editor ExtraEnergy.org
Not on the picture Kerstin Bünte · Test support Frieder Herb · Test support Antje Hopf · Project coordinator GoPedelec! Daniel Hoppe · IT support, webmaster Moritz Grünke · Graphic designer Anne Möckel · Sales
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Legal notices
ExtraEnergy Magazine © ExtraEnergy e.V. and the authors 2010 Publisher: ExtraEnergy e.V. • Koskauer Street 100 • 07922 Tanna • Germany • www.extraenergy.org Chief editor: Nora Manthey · Specialist Test editor: Andreas Törpsch Authors: Johannes Brodführer, Susanne Brüsch, Ernst Brust, Michael Burger, Peter Gutzeit, Frieder Herb, Daniel Hopf, Nora Manthey, Michaela Müller, Harry F. Neumann, Hannes Neupert, Andreas Törpsch, Christoffel Volschenk Translation: Christoffel Volschenk · Proofreading: Anne Möckel, Heike Zschächner Photo editor: Susanne Brüsch · Photo processing: Moritz Grünke, Patrick Knappick Layout & typefaces: Moritz Grünke • www.bueropluspunkt.de · Fonts: Chaparral Pro, Karmina Sans and Router Printrun: 15,000 units Advertising sales: Anne Möckel, anne.moeckel@extraenergy.org Orders: via info@extraenergy.org ISSN 2190-3263 Direct connection to editorial office (reader letters and articles): redaktion@extraenergy.org Picture credits Title & illustration (page 36): David Fischer (www.elstertainment.de) Illustrations & product category features: Michael Walinda, Michael Burger Product & detail photos of test riders: Hannes Neupert, Patrick Knappick Other pictures Heide Brüsch page 138–139 · Susanne Brüsch page 2 /page 4 /page 5 right /page 8 picture 5 / page 9 picture 6–9 / page 11 /page 14 / page 15 /page 17 /page 18 /page 19 left, right top, bottom / page 21 right / page 31 right / page 33 top, bottom / page 41 /page 42 both pictures / page 43 /page 43 /page 47 bottom / page 51 bottom / page 56 /page 57 /page 58 all /page 59 all / page 60 /page 62–63 Portraits test riders / page 65 photos /page 70 bottom /page 71 /page 74–75 /page 76 bottom / page 78 bottom / page 80 bottom / page 82 bottom / page 84 bottom / page 86 bottom / page 90 bottom / page 92 bottom / page 94 bottom / page 100 bottom /page 102 bottom /page 104 bottom / page 106 bottom / page 110 bottom / page 112 bottom / page 114 / page 116 bottom / page 118 / page 120 bottom / page 122 bottom /page 124–125 / page 126 bottom / 128 bottom / 130 bottom / 132 bottom / 134 bottom / 136 / bottom / 140 bottom / page 142–143 / page 144 bottom /page 148 bottom / page 152 bottom / page 156–157 / page 158 bottom / page 160 bottom / page 164 bottom / page 168 bottom / page 170–171 / page 172 bottom / page 180 bottom / page 182 bottom / 199 top, middle, bottom left Michael Burger page 11 /page 28 illustration and photo · EnergyBus e.V. page 8 picture 3 / page 32 · ExtraEnergy e.V. page 64 / page 65 Diagram / page 66 Diagram / page 67 photo and diagram / page 186 bottom · Flow AG page 11 / page 30 / page 31 left · Google Earth page 69 Grace GmbH & Co. KG page 8 photo 1 /page 11 / page 29 /page 38 · Norbert Haller page 13 Designskizze, page 42 charts pedelecs, E–Bike Hawk Bikes E&M GmbH page 38 · Karbon Kinetics Ltd. (GoCycle): page 29 photo 1 /page 39 · Michael Hecken: page 19 right middle Daniel Hopf page 196 both · Patrick Knappick page 88 / page 108 / page 162 / page 166 / page 174–175 / page 176 / page 188 Nora Manthey page 5 left / page 22 / page 62 top · Julien McHardy page 199 bottom right · Modern Times Ltd. (Cytronex) page 11 / page 23 · Harry F. Neumann page 61 Diagram · Hannes Neupert pages 7, 10 MBK / page 37 / page 46 both / page 47 both top / page 48 all / page 49 both / page 179 · PG Trade & Sales GmbH page 38 · Porsche Deutschland GmbH page 10 / page 26 · riese und müller GmbH: page 29 photo 5 · Robert Bosch GmbH page 27 · Shimano Inc. page 25 · SLG Prüf– und Zertifizierungs GmbH page 50 / page 51 middle Max Tomasinelli page 8 photo 2 / page 11 / page 21 left (Copenhagen Wheel) · Andreas Törpsch page 8 picture 4 / page 24 / page 96 bottom / page 98 bottom / page 146 bottom /page 150 /page 154 bottom / page 184 bottom · Toyota Deutschland GmbH, Lexus page 27 Ultra Motor UK Ltd: page 16 / page 38 · velotech.de page 51 top · Volkswagen AG: page 27 · Michael Walinda page 42 chart of e-scooter. 200 ExtraEnergy.org
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