The Sports Utility Bike

Interview: Is there such a thing like the perfect commuter bike?

What is important when choosing a commuter bike?

My bike must work perfectly - it must never let me down. For our e-bikes, we therefore use e-bike-specific tires with a special focus to puncture protection. For everyday cycling, comfort is an important issue that we cover with ergonomic grips and saddles. The bike must meet the personal requirements: Do I want a bike with suspension? With electric support or without? Do I prefer a more sportive or comfortable seating position? Should it be a curved or a flat handlebar?

That means that the one and only perfect commuter bike does not exist?

Exactly. Depending on the intended use, there are many different personal demands and preferences, resulting in various bike models. The question is whether you like to take it easy and get to work without breaking a sweat or rather incorporate your commute into your fitness regime?

Commuters usually don’t want to sweat. Are e-bikes the perfect commuter bikes?

E-bikes are a comfortable alternative. In any case you should mind the on-the-job infrastructure, which should be available: parking space for the bikes with charging station, lockers, etc. Especially when dress code is a topic at work, e-bikes are an exciting alternative, because in addition to the great riding pleasure, they offer riders a comfortable and sweat free commute even in business attire. In any case, the (e) bike beats the private car or public transport in the following categories: independence, punctuality and flexibility.

For whom are conventional bikes suitable as commuters?

Definitely for sports enthusiasts who use the commute as a training session, for short-distance riders or for idealists. A longer journey requires a certain degree of basic fitness as well as shower facilities at the workplace. But generally, for those who enjoy pedalling without (motor) support.

A big trend are the SUV bikes, which are considered a bit of an universal weapon. Are they also an option for the commute?

Definitely, an SUV such as our E-Horizon FS makes commuting more comfortable, providing reliability for longer trips and safety in every situation. The bike offers a wide range of uses and is a total all-rounder. Off the paved roads, it provides the necessary reserves and the luggage carrier system makes it possible to use it as a tourer by attaching panniers. Above all, don’t forget or underestimate the fun factor of these bikes.

Keyword comfort: If I am looking for a bike with which to travel every day, what should I pay attention to?

It should be low maintenance and reliable. We put a lot of emphasis on high quality components such as hydraulic disc brakes, metal mudguards and specific components designed for durability in particular for e-bikes. Equally important are the ergonomic contact points and a feel-good geometry - specific for each target group. Our developers try to solve the everyday challenges faced by commuters with smart solutions bringing real benefits. Cargobikes have been increasingly shaping the cityscape lately. With our new E-Cargoville LJ 70, we now also want to serve the target group who want to drop off their children at kindergarten on the way to work or transport heavy loads. Anyway, it is important that the bike suits me and my needs.

Christian Elbers
Christian is a Product Manager for E-bikes at BERGAMONT since 2012. He is using most of his spare time to ride his bicycles (with and without motor).