Vogue Motion low-step Matt Black at Fatbikeskopen.nl

This version of the Vogue Motion combines a 50-centimeter low-step frame with a matte black finish. Black makes the sleek frame with its concealed battery look even more compact, so the bike hardly looks like an e-bike at all. The technology is identical across all versions: an automatic two-speed hub, Gates belt drive, suspension seatpost, Tektro disc brakes, and a weight of 24 kilos on 28-inch wheels.

What a low-step frame offers you

With a low-step frame, you step through the bike instead of swinging your leg over a top tube. That makes a difference whenever you have luggage on the rear, wear a long coat, or want to avoid straining your hips. In city traffic, where you get off at every traffic light, it is convenient every time. The downside is that a low-step frame is slightly less rigid than a closed frame, which you may notice at high speeds with a lot of luggage.

Automatic gearing and Gates belt drive

The Bafang H700 dual-speed hub automatically selects between two gears based on your speed. You notice this as a brief moment when pedaling becomes easier; other than that, you do not need to do anything. In city traffic with many traffic lights, it prevents you from setting off in a gear that is too high. The Gates belt drive replaces the chain: no lubrication, no rust, and no grease on your clothes. Together, they require virtually no maintenance for years.

Battery integrated into the frame

The 360-watt-hour battery is fully integrated into the frame, making the Motion barely look like an electric bike. As a result, it attracts less attention in a public bike storage facility. The downside is that you have to bring the bike to the power outlet instead of taking the battery indoors separately. Three hundred sixty watt-hours is modest: the stated range of 90 kilometers applies to the lowest assistance level, so realistically expect fifty to sixty. You can charge it from a regular power outlet, so no separate charging setup is needed. A battery lasts longer if you do not routinely drain it completely and charge it indoors during winter.

Suspension seatpost and Tektro brakes

Instead of a suspension fork, it has a suspension seatpost. It weighs less and absorbs shocks exactly where your weight rests, which makes a difference to your lower back on cobblestone streets; you notice it less in your wrists. The hydraulic disc brakes are made by Tektro, a manufacturer commonly found on sports bikes: smooth modulation and no loss of braking power in wet weather. The rear rack is MIK-compatible for bags and baskets. When the bike is delivered, briefly check the brake lever reach, which you can adjust in a few seconds. The brake pads and discs use standard sizes, so they can be replaced at any service point.

Who is the Vogue Motion for?

For commuters who want a lightweight, low-maintenance bike that does not stand out as an e-bike and who value easy mounting and dismounting. At 24 kilograms, it is light for a bike with 28-inch wheels. The recommended rider height is approximately 1.70 to 2.05 metres. One thing to keep in mind: 360 watt-hours is limited, so for long daily distances, a model with a larger battery is the more sensible choice. If you are unsure about the size, measure your inseam and compare it with the specified values. Anyone who rides it every day will notice these choices more quickly than someone who only takes an occasional ride.

Ordering from Fatbikeskopen.nl

Compare the low-step and high-step versions before deciding, because you notice the difference on every ride. You can do this at ten showrooms and take a test ride right away, which is recommended with an automatic hub. For maintenance, you can visit more than 450 service points in the Netherlands. If you order online, the bike will be delivered to your home fully assembled and ready to ride. Three years' warranty on the frame and one year on the components and battery. Upon delivery, the bike is assembled and adjusted at your door. After delivery, you have fourteen days to take a test ride.

See also: VOGUE e-bikes | VOGUE bikes | e-bikes | electric city bikes