The 9 best speed pedelecs

After much research, conversations with bike shops, reviews, and testing, we are finally ready to compile a list of the best speed pedelecs. These models can be purchased online. It is still advisable to test the speed pedelec if you have the opportunity.

Our list is divided into two types of speed pedelecs. First, the pedelecs with a rear-wheel motor. These achieve high top speeds (max 45 km/h) and have fast acceleration. The SP with mid-drive motors are slower (approximately 35 km/h), but they provide more consistent power. First, decide which type you prefer, and then look for the best speed pedelec (within your budget) in this category.

Additionally, consider purchasing a safe speed pedelec helmet. Opt for at least the mandatory EN 1078 standard, or choose additional safety by looking for NTA 8776 certification and helmets with MIPS or other safety features.

Best speed pedelec: Ellio Max

The advantages

• Two-wheel drive, double drive with unique technology
• Comfortable position for long distances
• Powerful battery and motor
• Innovative software, Next-gen speed pedelec
• Regenerative braking, Cruise control or speed limiter
• Very stable and powerful, enjoyable riding experience
• Belgian speed pedelec

The disadvantages

• Good price/quality ratio but still an expensive purchase
• Not perfectly finished (wiring)
• Not connected, so no wireless updates possible
• Pedals low to the ground

The unique motor, features, and software of the Ellio Max are its greatest assets. The cruise control function allows maintaining a constant speed without constantly having to pedal hard, while the automatic motor braking contributes to a unique and safer riding experience.

These features are lacking in the competition. Ellio creates next-generation speed pedelecs, thoroughly considering every aspect of the SP. You can read all about it in the comprehensive review of the Ellio Max.

Why buy the Ellio Max:

• Innovative speed pedelec: unique riding style and behavior
• Best speed pedelec motor (Belgian craftsmanship)
• Highest top speed, easy to maintain
• Fastest speed pedelec for long distances
• After-sales service

The battery capacity of the Ellio Max is more than sufficient. With 1150 kW, you can cover long distances; 40 to 150 depending on riding behavior and support. This makes the Ellio Max suitable for commuting, even if you live a bit further from your workplace.
On the Ellio Original, you can choose the Dual Battery option, but this is not available on the Max. Soon, there will also be the Marty, which is a longtail speed pedelec.

However, improvements are possible. The high and heavier weight (39 kg) of the bike can make riding a bit more difficult at very low speeds. You’ll also notice this when lifting or pushing it, although it has a handy walk-assist function for this.

The lack of connectivity means you can’t use remote updates or GPS tracking, which is now available in many high-end models.

Ellio mainly offers a unique and innovative riding experience. You’ll need some time to get used to it, but once you do, it’s truly enjoyable. Features like cruise control and motor braking make you forget you ever had a derailleur or gears.

The Ellio Max earns its place on our list due to its excellent price-performance ratio. The advanced technology and the ability to cover long distances make this speed pedelec a strong competitor for brands like Stromer, Aska, Specter, or Opium.

For those looking for an innovative and powerful speed pedelec, the Ellio Max is definitely worth considering. Plus, it’s an innovative Belgian brand, and you can count on excellent after-sales service.

Best on the road: Stromer ST5 Smart Shift

The advantages

• Powerful Stromer rear wheel motor for top speed and acceleration
• New Stromer Sound feedback
• Smart Shift by Pinion for easy shifting
• Sporty riding position and bike feel retained
• High-quality components from renowned brands
• Advanced ABS braking system for improved safety
• Stromer technology and finishing

The disadvantages

• Highest price segment
• Slightly less comfortable riding position for long distances
• Less good price/quality ratio than others in the same price segment

Of course, the best Stromer is the new Stromer ST7 with improved motor and features. This one comes with a hefty price tag, so we prefer to look at the ST5. Even though it also has a relatively high purchase price, you’re looking at a top model from a top brand like Stromer.

Stromer also offers less expensive models, such as the ST3 Pinion, which is also a good choice. As an entry-level model, you have the ST2. Due to the high sales of Stromer speed pedelecs in recent years, you can find many second-hand or refurbished ones.

The Stromer ST5 ABS is a powerful speed pedelec designed for cyclists who value performance, quality, and style.

New to the Stromer ST5 ABS is the Smart Shift System, a Pinion gear system controlled electronically. This makes shifting so smooth that you won’t even feel it. Goodbye, derailleur.

Also new is the Stromer Sound, a feature that provides an audible signal when turning the Stromer speed pedelec on and off. You also get sound when charging and when receiving error codes. Even more interestingly, if you’re at full speed and still want to go higher, you’ll get feedback from the Stromer.

In the future, Stromer also plans to build a radar into the saddle that indicates when traffic is approaching from behind. Very innovative, although we already see this in action with the Specter 1 using the Garmin radar accessory. Here, you get visual feedback on your display, whereas with Stromer, it’s just sound. It’ll be interesting to see what works best.

Stromers are fast. So fast that every new brand makes it a point to be able to catch up to a Stromer. The rear-wheel motor of SYNO Sport (850W, 48 Nm) ensures direct power transmission, making it easy to reach 45 km/h. This makes the ST5 Smart Shift ideal for sporty riding on flat roads, a bit more challenging uphill – although there’s plenty of power. Stromer does have the SYNO II with an even stronger motor. This one is used on the ST7.

The rugged design gives the ST5 a tough and sporty look. The advanced ABS braking system effectively prevents wheel lock during hard braking or sliding, an important plus point that helps explain the high purchase price. Whether you need ABS on your speed pedelec remains a question. Depending on your riding style, we say ‘yes’, especially on a Stromer.

Weighing in at 29.8 kg, the ST5 ABS is on the average side. This is due to the large 983 Wh battery and quality components, but it’s also necessary for stability at high speeds. The range is more than adequate, 50 to 180 km, depending on conditions. In reality, this will be somewhere around 35-50 if you ride hard.

The components are all of excellent quality, with top brakes, tires, and drivetrain. There’s not really any suspension; the Stromer is mainly for flat roads. Riders who encounter bumps or varied terrain often may want a model like the Aska with more advanced suspension options or opt for a seatpost option to improve comfort.

The ST5 Smart Shift comes with some handy extras like the Omni Interface for easy bike settings and built-in lighting for increased visibility. There’s also an anti-theft GPS function to always locate your speed pedelec.

What stands out most with Stromer is that the biking experience remains intact. This is comparable to the Specter; these two will truly compete with each other. The Ellio is a joy to ride, but the biking experience is further away. The Aska Supercommuter can be used anywhere but has a different kind of design.

The Stromer ST5 ABS is available from € 10,990, or can be leased for € 286 per month.

Stromer is still a go-to brand for speed pedelecs. They have the most experience and make premium bikes. Other brands innovate with a cockpit or motor features. Stromer retains its biking experience but works on innovations like shifting and Stromer Sound feedback.

Lightweight with the best acceleration: Specter 1 Long Range

The benefits

• Sporty riding position and retained biking experience
• Handles well in corners at high speeds due to low center of gravity
• Good climbing ability uphill due to carbon frame and mid-motor
• High-quality components from renowned brands
• Two-wheel drive with mid- and front-wheel motor
• Carbon frame advantages
• High top speed and fastest acceleration
• First speed pedelec with cockpit design
• Three frame options for correct seating position

The drawbacks

• Expensive
• No suspension, more challenging on uneven road surfaces
• Narrow handlebars, limited adjustability

2023 was a good year for speed pedelecs, especially in Belgium where several brands are making their mark. Aska is the off-roader, Ellio builds for practical use, and Specter builds for performance. This light and sporty carbon speed pedelec is well-designed and offers some advantages over direct competitors (read Stromer).

Starting from the beginning. The Specter 1 Long Range is fast. 45 km/h effortlessly, and the acceleration is noteworthy too. The bike handles well in corners due to the low center of gravity, and uphill, you outperform (all) other speed pedelecs. Downsides? The handlebar is a bit narrower than what we’re used to, and there’s no suspension – just like Stromer.

With the additional motor and battery, we’re talking about the Long Range variant. Recommended, as this can handle journeys of 50 kilometers, even at high speeds. Thanks to the aerodynamic design (shape and material), you save battery power.

The Specter 1 stands out mainly for its sporty look and performance. You can count on the two-wheel drive, a combination of front and mid-motor, the lightweight frame, and the sporty riding position. A Specter 1 leaves other speed pedelecs behind when accelerating.

We can also compare the power. For now, only the Ellio speed pedelecs, the Max and Original, can compete with the dual motor of Specter. With an Ellio, you have 1500 W of power, the ZF Sachs RS (+ front wheel together) offers around 1250 W. Due to the light weight, we see the Specter 1 pulling ahead initially, but with the cruise control feature of Ellio, you’ll likely be overtaken in the long run.

The road surface also plays a role. You may have 20% less air resistance due to the aerodynamic design, but if you hit a pothole at that speed, you’ll feel it. This fast speed pedelec relies on the tires to absorb the hardest shocks. Not possible yet, but perhaps a seat post suspension option will be available in the future.

Specter dares more than other brands. They dare to adapt their design and offer innovations even if they are not yet proven.

They are the first with a Speed Pedelec Cockpit. Others currently just call this a handlebar with a display. The Specter display with internet access, GPS, route guidance, and even Spotify is new for speed pedelecs. Also, their radar function that we discovered at Velofollies.

With this, you can see on your display if there are cars behind you, an accessory from Garmin that you can follow on your Specter display.

All of this makes Specter actually a very special brand. ‘Rethink the speed pedelec’, they really do that. That’s why they are also not the go-to choice for someone who wants a ‘typical’ speed pedelec. Like Ellio, Specter is a step ahead of the market, and for some users, this step is still too early.

If you choose Specter, you choose speed, innovation, and above all, a very sporty and light speed pedelec. You know that your route has good infrastructure, so the drawbacks of the Specter 1 don’t come to the forefront. Uphill or downhill, this Specter 1 is all about performance.

Best all-terrain: Aska Supercommuter

The benefits

• Powerful rear-wheel motor for 45 km/h
• High battery capacity of 950 Wh
• Advanced suspension system for a comfortable ride on various terrains
• Ideal for heavier cyclists looking for a speed pedelec
• Also suitable for off-road field paths and forest trails
• Designed in Belgium, for familiarity with local roads and infrastructure
• High-quality components from renowned brands

The drawbacks

• Higher price range
• On the heavier side (35 kg)
• More challenging on steep inclines
• Maintaining top speed requires slightly more pedaling than others in this price segment

Aska is particularly suitable if you use field paths and forest trails as shortcuts. This is a companion that can go anywhere, on- and off-road. But beware, it’s not a mountain bike speed pedelec.

Aska is a Belgian speed pedelec mainly targeting sporty off-road users. All components come from Europe, with assembly done in Belgium. This Aska Supercommuter also belongs to the premium segment, it’s an impressive machine.

Very rugged and futuristic, the Aska is built to handle all terrains (with ease). Even off-road, on Belgian forest trails and field paths. This allows you to take advantage of all shortcuts. Traffic jams with bicycles don’t really exist in Belgium yet, but the future looks different.

If you expect to do a lot of off-roading, also consider tire choice. On the road, you want grip but also speed, off-road, you mainly want grip. The Aska Supercommuter comes with slightly rougher tires as standard compared to a Specter or Stromer. A good versatile choice.

The Neodrives Z20RS Direct Drive rear-wheel motor provides powerful direct acceleration and high top speed. Sufficient power for rides at 45 km/h. Maintaining speed, especially uphill, the Aska finds it slightly more challenging than a Stromer, Specter, or Ellio. Aska makes up for this lost time when you enter a forest trail or field path.

The sporty mountain bike-like design makes the speed pedelec very agile on uneven surfaces. Especially when looking at the fully equipped Aska, the speed pedelec glides over these uneven surfaces.

For heavier individuals looking for a speed pedelec, we also recommend the Aska Supercommuter.

Aska is Belgian and therefore also designed by Belgians. This provides familiarity with local roads and infrastructure. The Stromer, on the other hand, is designed by Swedes, known for their good infrastructure but less so for the potholes in our Belgian roads.

The Aska is on the heavier side but offers many advantages. The weight provides stability and balance at higher speeds, and you also get more carrying capacity and frame suspension. At 34.2 kg, you never want to run out of battery. Fortunately, the 950 Wh is sufficient for long journeys of 40 – 80 km. Aska themselves claim that their Battery Management System provides 60 km at top speed.

The biggest advantage of this Aska, compared to the competition, is the advanced (and adjustable) suspension system. This speed pedelec is fully suspended, front and rear. Where a Stromer is a road scooter, the Aska is a motocross.

It makes your speed pedelec more than ‘just a fast bike’. You can do much more with it, a companion that takes you everywhere. We see this also with our R&M Multicharger, forest paths, fields, … others just can’t keep up.

However, bear in mind, it’s not a mountain bike! The rear-wheel motor is very powerful, so there’s more chance of slipping in mud or steep inclines. For mountain biking, you’re better off looking at an e-MTB with a mid-motor. The Aska is suitable for field and forest paths, shortcuts, and off-roading. The Aska is also a suitable speed pedelec for bikepacking.

To position itself in the premium segment and guarantee quality, Aska opts for high-quality components from renowned brands. The frame is made in Belgium, ensuring quality you can rely on.

Safe, for long-distance or urban use: Ellio Original

The benefits

• Exceptional range up to 200 km with the 2300 Wh battery option
• Ellio technology and features such as Cruise Control and motor braking
• Safe due to the low center of gravity with good control and maneuverability
• Upright seating position for long distances without discomfort
• High power 1500W and top speed, easy to maintain
• Low step-through, more accessible for women, seniors, and smaller speed pedelec riders

The drawbacks

• Heavier due to the extra battery
• No suspension in fork or frame, although handlebar and seat post suspension can compensate
• Design may not appeal to everyone

The Ellio Original is one of our favorite speed pedelecs (because the Marty isn’t out yet). There are many advantages, and you can purchase it relatively cheaply.

For an Original with a double battery, you’ll pay around € 8800. For an Ellio Essential, the Original with slightly fewer options, you’re looking at € 6995. But you can also rent it monthly via Ellio Certified.

About the ‘bike’ then. The Original is a smaller version of the Ellio Max. The motor is identical, but the ride is better and safer. The Original is designed to be the best speed pedelec for everyone. Of course, looks also play a role, and due to the small 20-inch wheels, this speed pedelec looks less rugged.

And yet, that’s precisely why you would choose this Original. The low center of gravity, the smaller wheels, the comfortable riding position (with a comfort or sporty handlebar as an option). It all contributes to better agility, more stability, and control. Besides all the big models, this is also the safest speed pedelec for us.

It is heavy, though. For such a small design, you might expect something else, but the powerful (and Belgian) IntuEdrive motor and battery (1150 Wh) are heavy. Add the dual battery option, up to 2300 Wh, and you’ll get an additional 7 kg.

With the powerful main motor, centrally driving the rear wheel, and the complementary front-wheel motor, you get a total power of 1500 watts. This is a lot. This way, you can reach 45 km/h and easily maintain top speed.

Ellio speed pedelecs also have innovative features such as cruise control, a speed limiter, cadence control, and motor braking by pedaling backward. All features you don’t see on other speed pedelecs.

For long distances or city use, the Ellio Original seems to us one of the best choices. See below how an Ellio Original easily rides as fast as a Stromer ST3.

Speed with a low step-through: Klever Y Gala 45

The benefits

• Comfortable and upright seating position
• Conveniently removable battery for easy charging
• Motor lock for extra security
• Wide range of 40-160 km
• High-quality components from renowned brands

The drawbacks

• Heavier than some other models at 30.2 kg
• Rear-wheel drive may not offer as much grip and stability as a mid-motor
• Suspension may not be suitable for all terrains

The Klever Y Gala 45 is a comfortable speed pedelec that effortlessly navigates through traffic. Thanks to its low step-through frame, you can easily get on and off, ideal for those with limited mobility.

The powerful BIACTRON rear-wheel motor effortlessly propels you to 45 km/h, perfect for city commuting and relaxed rides. While a mid-motor like the one in the Gazelle N°1 provides better stability, the rear-wheel drive of the Klever Y Gala 45 is sufficient for flat roads.

At 30 kg, it is heavier than some competitors. However, this weight contributes to its stability, even at higher speeds. The large battery also adds a few kilograms. You can choose between 850 or 1200 Wh batteries, providing a range of 100 to 160 km.

The components are all of excellent quality. The hydraulic disc brakes provide strong stopping power, and the slightly wider Schwalbe tires absorb road imperfections. While belt drive is more maintenance-friendly than a traditional chain, it is not a necessity. And although suspension is lacking, the Klever Y Gala 45 rides comfortably on flat roads.

Convenient features include the easily removable battery, the motor lock, and the integrated lighting. These details make life with the speed pedelec more convenient.

Best mid-motor speed pedelec: Riese & Müller Roadster HS

The benefits

• High-quality components from renowned brands
• Sleek and lightweight design for optimal road performance
• Bosch Performance Line Speed mid-motor for excellent stability and grip
• Supernova M99 lighting for improved visibility

The drawbacks

• Expensive compared to other speed pedelecs
• Limited suspension options for off-road terrain
• Unspecified range, which may vary depending on usage

The Riese & Müller Roadster Touring HS is the premium speed pedelec for the discerning bike enthusiast. This stylish model stands out in the premium segment due to its thoughtful German design and exceptionally high quality.

Just like other speed pedelecs, the Roadster Touring HS is powered by the powerful Bosch Performance Speed Line mid-motor. This provides tremendous pulling power, making every incline a breeze. Moreover, the low center of gravity ensures excellent stability and control. This makes the Roadster Touring HS the ideal choice for cyclists who prioritize comfort and safety.

Weighing only 22.8 kg, the Roadster Touring HS is one of the lightest models in its class. You’ll notice this immediately while riding. The bike feels agile and lively, as if it’s begging to be pushed further. Other heavy mid-motors like the Gazelle N°1 (26.2 kg) and Riese & Müller Nevo HS (26.5 kg) can’t compare.

Riese & Muller also scores very high in terms of quality, as we know from our Multicharger. The 11-speed Shimano hub shifts rapidly and precisely, while the Supernova headlight illuminates the road ahead like a football field. The front fork absorbs most of the bumps. If you’re really going off-road or your route is full of cobblestone roads, an extra suspension seatpost can help.

In terms of range, you’re in good shape with the 625 Wh battery. Depending on your riding style, you can get about 30-80 km on a full charge. If you want to go even further, then the Riese & Müller Supercharger with double battery is a better choice.

Price-Quality Mid-Motor: Gazelle N°1 625 Wh

The Benefits

• Excellent price-to-quality ratio
• High-quality components from renowned brands
• Enviolo automatic transmission for smooth shifting
• Lightweight, easy to maneuver

The Drawbacks

• Limited range compared to some other models
• Mid-motor design may not be ideal for those seeking sportier performance
• No suspension on the bike

The Gazelle N°1 625 Wh is an excellent choice for cyclists looking for an affordable and versatile speed pedelec. This bike combines a modern and streamlined design with powerful performance thanks to the Bosch Performance Line mid-motor.

Compared to rivals like the Stromer ST5 with rear-wheel motor, the Gazelle offers more traction and stability due to the centrally placed motor. This makes the bike more comfortable and confidence-inspiring during acceleration and braking. The ST5, on the other hand, is faster from 0 to 45 km/h thanks to its direct power transmission to the rear wheel.

Weighing 26.2 kg, the Gazelle is lighter than most speed pedelecs. This makes the bike agile and suitable for busy urban traffic. The riding position is upright for control, unlike the more aerodynamic and sporty posture of, for example, the Riese & Müller Roadster.

In terms of components, there are high-quality parts such as the seamlessly shifting Enviolo gear hub, maintenance-free Gates belt, and Supernova LED headlight. One drawback is the lack of suspension, which limits versatility. Competing models like the Riese & Müller Nevo4 HS offer suspension for more comfort on bumpy roads.

With a 625 Wh battery, the Gazelle has a limited range of around 30-75 km on average, depending on assistance level and riding style. This is sufficient for commuting but too tight for long recreational rides. For comparison, the Supercharger 2 GT has almost double the battery capacity for more range.

Speed Pedelec for Bikepacking: R&M Supercharger 2 HS

The Benefits

• DualBattery Technology for extended range.
• Robust design and high-quality components for use on any terrain.
• Bosch Performance Line Speed mid-motor for excellent power and stability. Rear rack for added convenience.
• Comfortable riding position for long trips.
• Load capacity for bikepacking and cycling vacations.

The Drawbacks

• Suspension may not be necessary for all riders.
• Higher price compared to some other models.

The Supercharger 2 GT Touring HS from Riese & Müller is a highly popular mid-motor speed pedelec. You often see it zooming past on the open road. This robust all-rounder is built for any terrain and route imaginable, making it the perfect speed pedelec for bikepacking or cycling vacations.

One thing that immediately stands out is the clever DualBattery technology from Bosch. With an impressive capacity of 1250 Wh, this speed pedelec effortlessly covers long distances. Depending on your riding behavior, this ranges somewhere between 80 and 150 km.

Thanks to the comfortable saddle, you can enjoy all this with ease. R&M is known for its quality, with comfort taking precedence. You’ll enjoy a host of quality components that make the ride effortless.

The powerful Bosch Performance Line Speed mid-motor is a deliberate choice. Although it doesn’t reach the absolute top speeds of some models with rear-wheel motors (around 35 km/h cruising speed), it does provide a more stable and controlled riding experience. You can see the powerful acceleration of the Supercharger 2 HS in this video.

Weighing in at 29.2 kg, the Supercharger 2 GT Touring HS is among the slightly heavier models, especially compared to, for example, the Trek Allant+ 9S. But this is mainly due to its robust construction, designed for rough and smooth terrain alike.

The quality of the components speaks volumes: hydraulic disc brakes, indestructible Schwalbe tires, and a smooth Shimano Deore XT 11-speed drivetrain. The suspension fork provides extra comfort on rough surfaces. On smooth bike paths, this may be considered unnecessary luxury.

The rear rack solves practical problems for those who like to carry extra luggage. On the Supercharger 2, you sit comfortably upright in a sporty yet comfortable position. Perfect for covering kilometers without stiff muscles. You can ride it on all types of terrain.

So far our comparison of the best speed pedelecs of 2024. Here we prefer quality and safety but also look for good affordable speed pedelecs. Below we delve further into the various components. And we compare the above pedelecs based on their components.

Why not Klever, Moustache, Trek, or Kalkhoff speed pedelecs

It’s more ‘not yet’ than ‘not’. Testing speed pedelecs takes a lot of time. Some brands we haven’t been able to test due to limited availability, or limited time on our part. This doesn’t mean they’re not good, just that we haven’t been able to judge them yet.

We also try to compare models we haven’t tested as well as possible based on specs and others’ experiences. Klever comes closest to this list; we need to test their models to get the best picture. Kalkhoff, Trek, and Moustache also make high-quality speed pedelecs.

Fully Comparing the Best Speed Pedelecs

We compare and test these speed pedelecs as much as possible. New models keep coming, and technology keeps advancing. There are many components, technologies, and quality points to compare speed pedelecs on. We discuss these extensively in our speed pedelec buying guide. Here in this article, we delve deeper into these factors for the above models.

Design, Riding Style, and Comfort

The design of a speed pedelec can have a big impact on your riding experience. Some models, like the Stromer ST5 and Specter 1 or Aska Supercommuter, have a sportier geometry that promotes a slightly bent posture for more speed and efficiency.

Others, like the Klever Y Gala 45 and the Gazelle N°1 or Ellio Original, have a more upright riding position that emphasizes comfort during long rides. The Ellio Max, Supercharger 2 GT Touring HS, and the Riese & Müller Nevo4 HS have a design that strikes a balance between sportiness and comfort.

The Ellio Original is comfortable and suitable for long distances. The Specter 1 Long Range stands out for its high-speed performance and climbing uphill. The Aska Supercommuter is perfect for light off-road adventures.

Consider your personal preferences and riding style. If you’re looking for speed and efficiency, models like the Stromer ST5, Ellio Original, or Specter 1 Long Range might be for you. If you prefer comfort and convenience, then the Ellio Original, Gazelle N°1, or Klever Y Gala 45 might be more your style. For off-road adventures, the Aska Supercommuter is an excellent choice.

Weight of the Speed Pedelec

A lighter speed pedelec also has its benefits, of course. Easier to push or lift over an obstacle. You will accelerate faster and use less battery.

For a speed pedelec, a heavier frame can be an advantage. More grip, stability, better handling,… You will not (often) ride without electric assistance, so the hybrid biking argument falls away. A heavy pedelec is sturdier and has more carrying capacity but will also use more battery than a light speed pedelec.

• Lighter pedelecs like the Stromer ST3 Sport (26.3 kg), Specter 1 (19 kg), Specter 1 Long Range (26 kg), and the Klever Y Gala 45 (27.5 kg) are easier to maneuver and can ride further on a single charge.
• Heavier models like the Klever N Pinion 45 and the Klever X Pinion 45 (both 31.5 kg) can feel more stable, especially at higher speeds. The weight is sufficiently low in the frame.
• The Ellio speed pedelecs are heavy (37 kg), but the low center of gravity on the Ellio Original is advantageous, while the Max is slightly more challenging due to its high frame.
• The weight of the Gazelle N°1 625 Wh is slightly lower at 26.1 kg.

Choice and Position of the Motor

The choice and position of the motor can have a major impact on the performance and feel of a Speed Pedelec. For this type of electric bike, there is a choice between mid- and rear-wheel motors. A front-wheel motor on a speed pedelec has not been seen yet. The concept of Vanmoof with front and rear-wheel drive seems to have been abandoned in the meantime.

Models like the Stromers, Klever, and the Aska use a powerful SYNO Drive II, NeoDrive, Bactrion, or Bafang motor placed in the rear wheel for extra acceleration and a high top speed.

New to the world of speed pedelecs is the two-wheel drive we see with brands like Specter and Ellio. They use a front-wheel motor in combination with rear-wheel drive or mid-motor.

Others, like the Supercharger 2 GT Touring HS and the Riese & Müller Nevo4 HS, use a powerful Bosch Performance Line Speed motor (85 nm) mid-motor for a balanced weight distribution and a natural riding feel.

Battery Based on Route

The battery capacity of a speed pedelec is an important factor to consider when purchasing. It determines how far you can ride on a single charge. You cannot directly compare them because they all use different motors. The kilometers indicated are data from the manufacturers.

Here is a comparison of the battery capacity of different models:

• The Stromer ST5 ABS has a very powerful battery of 983 Wh, providing a range of 50 to 180 km, depending on the conditions.
• The Ellio Max has a battery capacity of 1150 kW, which is sufficient for long distances of 40 to 150 km, depending on the driving behavior and support.
• The Specter 1 Long Range has a dual motor and battery, providing a range of 50 km, even at high speeds.
• The Aska Supercommuter has a battery of 950 Wh, providing a range of 40 to 80 km.
• The Riese & Müller Roadster Touring HS has a battery of 625 Wh, providing a range of 30 to 80 km, depending on the conditions.
• The Gazelle N°1 625 Wh has a battery of 625 Wh, providing a range of 30 to 75 km, depending on the conditions.
• The Riese & Müller Supercharger 2 HS has an impressive dual battery of 1250 Wh, providing a range of 80 to 150 km.

It is important to remember that the actual range of the battery may vary depending on factors such as terrain, rider weight, weather conditions, and the chosen support mode.

Build Quality and Quality of Components

The quality of the components can have a significant impact on the performance and durability of the bike. All models in this speed pedelec comparison are equipped with high-quality components from reputable brands.

• At high speeds, you need better brakes. Disc brakes use pistons; the more pistons, the harder the braking force. Additionally, the material plays a role in durability. Nowadays, you also have ABS on speed pedelecs.
• Suspension varies from basic models to advanced systems with adjustable spring preload and rebound.
• Tires are also important. You can always replace them as needed, but for the right grip on the right surface, you need the right tires.
• Less important is the lighting, although we do pay attention to this when comparing. Good lighting is a must, but you can always add extra bike lights if needed. We also recommend adding an extra light or two at the rear.

Models like the Stromer ST5 and the Riese & Müller Nevo4 HS are equipped with high-quality components such as hydraulic disc brakes, premium gear systems, and advanced lighting systems. As a cherry on top, the ST5 also has ABS. This is not a must but reduces the risk of slipping.

Others, like the Klever N Pinion 45 and the Klever X Pinion 45, also offer high-quality components but may compromise in some areas to keep costs down. Belgian brands, Aska, Ellio, and Specter, also use durable and high-quality components to ensure safety.

Brands like Riese & Müller, Aska, or Stromer make premium speed pedelecs. Here, you can expect top quality but also a high purchase price. Other brands focus more on affordable speed pedelecs for the general public.

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