Vogue SUV at Fatbikeskopen.nl

The Vogue SUV is the model in which Vogue combines a Shimano E7000 mid-drive motor with a Gates belt. That is higher-segment equipment: the E7000 comes from Shimano's Steps line and is normally found on more expensive trekking bikes. Twenty-eight-inch wheels, a suspension fork, a 720-watt-hour battery, and eight gears. Thirty-five kilograms, which suits this sturdy build.

Shimano E7000 mid-drive motor

The E7000 is a mid-drive motor from Shimano's Steps program, located at the bottom bracket. The power runs through the gears, making pedaling itself easier instead of pushing you from behind. The specific benefit of Shimano is that parts and software are widely available, and every bike mechanic can work with them. That is at least as important as the specifications for an e-bike you plan to keep for years. What seems minor on paper often makes a noticeable difference on the road. Small differences like these matter more the more often you use the bike.

Gates belt instead of a chain

The belt does not need to be lubricated, does not rust, and leaves no grease on your clothes. Over several years, that saves you a series of maintenance appointments. Two caveats: replacing a belt is workshop work because it needs to be tensioned and the frame must be able to open, and switching to a different gearing system is not straightforward. Combined with eight gears, you get a drivetrain that lasts a long time. In the showroom, you can see things like this within a few minutes. What seems minor on paper often makes a noticeable difference on the road.

Range of the Vogue SUV

The 720-watt-hour battery is rated for approximately 90 kilometers. That is a conservative estimate for that capacity, probably due to the 35-kilogram weight and sturdy build. The advantage is that you can actually achieve those 90 kilometers in everyday use. For a ten-kilometer one-way commute, that means approximately one charge per week. A battery lasts longer if you do not routinely drain it completely and charge it indoors during winter. The stated range is always a test figure, so expect somewhat less in practice.

SUV build and low step-through

The SUV designation refers to the sturdier build, with a suspension fork and wider tires than a regular city bike. You notice the difference in your wrists and shoulders on cobblestone streets and along forest paths. The low step-through makes getting on and off easy, which is convenient for a 35-kilogram bike. The frame is 49 centimeters, and the recommended rider height ranges from approximately 1.70 to 2.05 meters.

Who is the Vogue SUV for?

For commuters who do not stick to asphalt and want a mid-drive motor from a well-known brand. Thirty-five kilograms is substantial, so you will want to store it on the ground floor. The bike is designed for one person, and the maximum total weight falls within the usual range for this class. If you mainly want a lightweight city bike, this model is more heavily built than you need. Anyone who rides it daily will notice these choices more quickly than someone who only takes an occasional ride. Consider where you will store the bike, as that often matters more than the specifications.

Ordering from Fatbikeskopen.nl

A Shimano mid-drive motor with belt drive rides differently from a hub motor with a chain, so try it first. You can schedule a test ride at ten showrooms. For maintenance, you can visit more than 450 locations in the Netherlands, which is useful with belt drive because this work requires a workshop. When ordered online, the bike arrives at your home ready to ride. Three-year warranty on the frame and one year on the components and battery. You can pay in full or in installments. Upon delivery, the bike is assembled and adjusted at your door.

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