By all accounts, 2019 is slated to be the year of the e-bike in Australia. So it should come as little surprise the learn that e-bike specialist start-ups are beginning to enter the market.
With a range suited to riders of all abilities complete with sharp price points and considered build kits across the board, Australian e-bike company eTOURER are looking to make waves with its range of assisted steeds in the coming year.
Having just launched, we got our hands on the full range, spending some time on each of the bikes to bring you a full overview of the fresh 2019 range.
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The Range
Entering the market with five models, eTOURER have taken the approach of targeting the entry-level e-bike enthusiast with a line up of bikes which offer quality components and a budget-friendly price tag. The range makes use of Bafang and Aikema hub drive motors, with a full charge of the e-bike system from dead flat taking three to five hours.
With models that canvass a wide range of terrain and riding disciplines, read on for an overview of each model below.
eTOURER F1
For those wanting an e-bike that has a small footprint, an efficient drive system and is easily transported, eTOURER offers a choice of two folding e-bikes. The F1 is outfitted with a Bafang hub drive motor located at the front wheel, with assistance coming via both a throttle and pedal assistance. An internally located battery, complete with a USB port for charging external devices such as your phone and bike lights handles the power source, good for up to 40km of assisted riding.
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A three-speed Shimano Nexus internal geared hub handles shifting duties whilst efficient Tektro disc brakes provide the ample stopping power. Comfort wise, the F1 is outfitted with a plush Selle Royal gel padded saddle, ergonomically shaped rubber grips and 2.25” Kenda tyres.
Finished in a sleek matte black paint scheme, the F1 is unassuming and perfect for riders who prefer their two-wheeled transportation understated and efficient.
- Price: AU$1,590
eTOURER F2
Much like the F1 detailed above, the F2 features a convenient folding design, perfect for stowing the bike away on public transport, or when it’s not in use.
The F2 features a 250-watt Bafang hub drive motor located at the rear wheel mated to a Li-ion battery system, good for up to 40 kilometres of assisted riding. LED lights front and rear feature, as does a sturdy pannier rack, capable of holding goods up to 20 kilograms in weight.
The step-through aluminium frame is a little easier to mount and dismount than other bikes in the range and the seatpost is easily adjustable to suit riders of varying heights.
Shifting comes courtesy of a six-speed Shimano Tourney drivetrain, whilst braking is again provided by Tektro mechanical disc brakes.
- Price: AU$1,490
eTOURER C1
Designed for commuting, the C1 features a considered build kit, perfect for a wide variety of terrain, from light offroad trails to inner city bike paths.
A Bafang hub drive pedal assist motor located at the rear wheel powers the bike, whilst Samsung once again provides the juice. The range is pegged at 50km via pedal assist or 35km using the throttle assist.
A seven-speed Shimano gearset handles the going whilst Tektro again provides the mechanical disc brakes. Finishing kit including the bars, stem and adjustable seatpost all come courtesy of Zoom. A double-walled aluminium wheelset wrapped in offroad ready 2.1” Kenda tyres completes the build.
- Price: AU$1,779
eTOURER S1
The S1, like the C1 detailed above, is also designed as a dedicated commuter bike and as such, is kitted out very similarly. The main difference between the C1 and the S1 is the step-through frame, which makes mounting and dismounting the eTourer S1 less of an acrobatic exercise.
The drive system and drivetrain are all identical to that found on the C1 detailed above, with the only difference being the wheelset and tyre size. The S1 is outfitted with robust, puncture proof commuter tyres. Full-length fenders and a slick candy apple paint scheme round out the key differences between the two models.
- Price: AU$1,795
eTOURER M1
The M1 sits as the e-MTB option in the eTOURER product line-up. The M1 is a hardtail outfitted with 100mm of suspension travel at the front forks. That front fork combined with the knobby 2.1” tyres are fitted to 27.5inch wheels, making for a competent recreational off-road bike.
Unlike the majority of other bikes in the eTOURER line-up, the M1 is outfitted with a semi-integrated battery system that is hidden in the downtube. This gives the bike a sleek aesthetic, almost like it’s not an e-bike at all! The battery is also removable making charging and transportation a breeze.
Moving to specification and the M1 is outfitted with a seven-speed Shimano Acera drivetrain and powerful hydraulic disc brakes. Double walled aluminium wheels and a comfortable Selle Royal gel padded saddle round out this well-priced offroad steed.
- Price: AU$1,989
If you’re in the market for your first e-bike and don’t know where to begin, our Ultimate E-Bike Buyers Guide is loaded with all you need to know to make an informed purchase.
