I’m after some e-bike recommendations for a friend looking to use a bike to commute approx 20 miles per day (10 each way) by road. She is reasonably fit, however, would appreciate some assistance up the relentless Cornish hills!
A “step through” frame with a rack for panniers etc. would be best.
Thanks in advance.
My wife has a Trek District+ 2 with step-through frame, I have a gents model. Solid commuter bike with front and rear rack, Nexus hub gear, Bosch motor and integrated lights, maybe a little heavy but feels pretty bombproof. We both like them, makes light of a draggy hill between the station and home and fine for longer trips.
Gazelle bikes caught my eye when I saw them. Haven't bought (or even ridden) an e-bike as yet but I'll be checking them out at some point
https://www.gazellebikes.com/en-gb/bikes/electric-bikes#page=1&pim_productebike%5B%5D=Yes
I'd suggest go for a mid-mount (bottom bracket) motor rather than a hub motor, and try to get one with the battery mounted low (rather than over the back wheel as part of the pannier rack) for better stability
Was going to suggest Gazelle. They have a range of stepthru and are always high quality. I used a similar Dutch bike (Batavus, non-electric) commuting in Cornwall and the quality of build, components, load-lugging ability, comfort, road-presence and lack of maintenance was always reassuring. Have long since considered a Gazelle utility e-bike if the hills get too much.
Gazelle Ultimate? (pictured)there are quite a few in the range.
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Something like a Cube Kathmandu, 3.2k, comes with the Bosch Gen4 and 625wh battery, basic kit to get you going and comes with a suspension seatpost to take the aches away a little, with this motor/battery 20 miles will be nothing and 85nm motor won't struggle on any hills!
If you can get C2W then even better!
Thanks all for the suggestions. The Gazelle bikes do seem to hit the price/quality point. Time for a test ride
