The warm weather has finally arrived and the summer vacations are about to begin. Even though bike dealers currently have above-average stock levels, it is important to take care of your bike in good time if you are planning a cycling vacation or tour. Workshop work always has a certain lead time, which can vary greatly depending on the region and workshop. The availability of new bikes also varies greatly depending on the type, model and brand. There are already longer delivery times for certain models.
Gravel bikes, for example, are currently enjoying great popularity. These are reinforced racing bikes with a wide range of gear ratios that offer space for larger and more robust tires so that they can be ridden puncture-free on paths away from paved roads; field and forest paths with pebbles and even easy mountain bike trails. Other distinguishing features of gravel bikes are pannier racks on the front fork, additional bottle cages on the frame and the option of bolting mudguards and a pannier rack to the rear frame. Gravel bikes are therefore also perfect as lightweight touring bikes and the classic "overnighter" in the great outdoors with a sleeping bag and light camping equipment. More and more bike enthusiasts are discovering this short-term escape from everyday life and comfortable, light-footed cycling, even off the beaten track. Accordingly, versatile gravel bikes and the corresponding equipment are in high demand.
Lightweight e-bikes on the rise
Lightweight e-bikes with so-called "minimal-assist drives" or lightweight motors are also becoming increasingly popular. These are around 30 percent lighter and more compact e-bike drives, which provide slightly less power or support for less time with the same power. Depending on the brand, the torque is around half to two thirds of that of conventional drives. This also reduces power consumption, which in turn allows for smaller batteries and therefore further weight savings. All in all, the weight of these lightweight e-bikes is less than 20 kilograms. This means they weigh around a third less than conventional, fully equipped city e-bikes with 640 to 750 watt-hour batteries. Sport e-mountainbikes without mudguards, pannier rack and kickstand even weigh less than 15 kilograms with a 320 Wh battery and light drive, making them barely heavier than inexpensive mountain bikes without electric drive.
The third category, which is becoming increasingly popular, is electric cargo bikes. They have a reinforced frame, sturdy brakes and sophisticated luggage carrier systems that can carry heavy loads. The total weight of these cargo bikes is up to 200 kilograms (bike, rider and load). This is not only perfect for chauffeuring children to nursery. These bikes also transport the weekly shopping and crates of drinks safely and comfortably. Naturally, cargo bikes are also suitable for longer tours and for transporting vacation and camping equipment.
In the first week of July, the latest achievements of the bicycle industry are presented at the world's largest bicycle exhibition, Eurobike, in Frankfurt am Main.
June 27, 2024