Gazelle, a renowned brand for Dutch-made mid-drive e-bikes, bucks the trend by offering high-quality Bosch-powered electrical bikes at affordable prices, defying the notion that “low value” is exclusive to this category. US-bound manufacturers have continued their legacy by introducing fresh iterations of the Gazelle Medio T9, Medio T9 Metropolis, and Final C8 for the 2024 model year.
The new Gazelle models unveiled in recent years boast reimagined frames, modern aesthetics, and a renewed focus on catering to a broader range of cyclists.
One notable distinction within the product range is the integration of a genuine step-through design, which has gained popularity among e-bike manufacturers with several recent launches of pure step-through models, abandoning the traditional approach of producing both step-over and step-through frames.
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The company’s mastery of correct body geometries and welding strategies, honed over 130 years as a Dutch bicycle manufacturer, has largely rendered the high-tube design obsolete for many body types. Here’s a revised version of your text:
“A reengineered frame now provides improved stiffness and stability, making it easier to mount and dismount, especially in urban settings or for mature cyclists,” stated the company.
Among the most affordable options in the US market, the brand-new T9s offer Bosch-powered mid-drive e-bikes starting at an attractive price point of $2,299 for the T9 Metropolis and $2,599 for the all-road T9 model.
The fashion-inspired sports brand offers comparative step-thru frame designs available in four size options, including an additional XS size catering to riders between 4’9″ and 5’2″ (145-157 cm) in height. All fashion styles can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour or 32 kilometers per hour with pedal assistance, thereby qualifying as Class 1 electric bicycles. The bikes feature 75mm-travel Suntour spring suspension forks, Shimano’s dual-piston hydraulic disc brakes, and practical commuter components such as fenders, a rear rack, LED lights, and body locks securing the rear wheel in place.
The T9, engineered for off-road adventures beyond urban limits, will feature an advanced Shimano Alivio 9-speed drivetrain and a more potent Bosch Lively Line Plus motor generating 50 Nm of torque, surpassing the T9 Metropolis’s 40 Nm output from the same Bosch unit. The advanced motor is coupled with an enlarged 545 Wh power pack, representing a significant upgrade from the standard 400 Wh unit found in the T9 Metropolis model.
Compared to earlier designs that featured rack-mounted batteries, the transition to an onboard tube battery results in a significant reduction of the center of gravity for the bike.
For discerning riders seeking a top-tier experience, the pioneering Gazelle Final C8 offers unparalleled luxury. The Final C8 seamlessly integrates its compact, step-through frame design with a Gates Carbon Drive belt-drive system and a reliable Shimano Nexus 8 internally geared rear hub.
The bike features a mono-integrated suspension stem seamlessly integrated into the fork, offering 40mm of travel. It also boasts higher-end LED lighting and an MIK-compatible rear rack designed to accommodate a range of accessories.
The drivetrain of the Class 1 Final C8 e-bike features a reliable Bosch Lively Line Plus motor, paired with a 500Wh Bosch battery for efficient power delivery and extended ride times.
Priced at $3,999, the Final C8’s enhanced features and drivetrain elevate its value without scaling up to the premium range of Gazelle’s high-end models, which command a significantly higher price point.
“We’re delighted to introduce our premium e-bikes to the North American market at an unbeatable value, making them available to a wider range of riders,” said Mark Danhof, General Manager for Gazelle North America. “With our latest collection, customers can now strike a perfect balance between style, security, and convenience.” Our e-bikes are engineered to provide exceptional efficiency and comfort, ensuring every ride is a pleasure and stress-free.
Electrek’s Take
As Gazelle expands its presence in the US market, enthusiasts can now enjoy premium European-style e-bikes with cutting-edge designs, offering a perfect blend of quality and affordability for those seeking powerful, high-end electric bicycles across the pond without breaking the bank.
These updates enable Gazelle’s best-selling e-bikes to enter the US market with a fresh, modern aesthetic while maintaining their signature Dutch flair, as the sleek designs cleverly conceal the battery racks. The introduction of a new, more compact body size option is likely to be a popular addition. During my visit to Gazelle’s manufacturing facility in Holland several years ago, I was struck by the friendly demeanor of the staff, who towered above me due to their height, leaving me with a stiff neck from looking up at them for an extended period. While alternative construction methods exist, it’s challenging to rapidly accommodate smaller dimensions for shorter individuals due to their inherent nature.
While these bicycles may not boast trendy designs, their robust manufacturing quality and the assurance of being backed by a venerable company with a rich history instill confidence in their reliability and performance.
