The explosive development of electric bikes in recent years indicates that this market is being segmented, and step-through e-bikes in particular are becoming increasingly popular. In the traditional concept of many mountain bike riders, step-through e-bikes are intended for women or the elderly, but in reality, more and more off-road step-through e-bikes are emerging on the market, which not only meets your daily cycling needs but also can handle various terrains. From paved roads to rough trails, they are suitable for both urban and off-road riding and are increasingly developing towards multi-functionality.

Below, we will compare some of the newly released step-thru e-bikes with the Frey CC and showcase the current development trends of popular off-road step-thru e-bikes and their pros and cons.

 

Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus Step-Thru

✅PROS

The Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus Step-Thru is equipped with a 750W hub-drive motor and 68Nm of torque, providing a steady power output and strong climbing ability that's perfect for off-road adventures. It can carry up to 275 lbs and has a battery capacity of 48V 14Ah (672W), giving you a range of 25-45 miles and making it the ideal e-bike for travel. The Kenda Juggernaut 26"x4" fat tire design is suitable for various terrain conditions. Plus, the 60mm front fork and 7-speed (11-34) transmission system make it possible to ride on some mountain trails. It's suitable for adults ranging from 5'2" to 6'2".

💬POSSIBLE CONS

With a weight of 73.4 lbs, riding without the motor's support may make you feel like you're pedaling a tank. Additionally, the front fork has limited travel and may not provide enough support for more aggressive off-road riding styles.(Refer to:electricbikereport.com)

 

Gazelle Ultimate C380

✅PROS

Aluminum frame, 70-mile range, Bosch Performance Line mid-drive motor with 65Nm of torque and 500Wh battery capacity, and a 20 mph pedal-assist speed - all meet the standard of a "top-of-the-line touring e-bike" as described on their website. The Gates CDX belt drive system which is made of carbon fiber requires little maintenance and eliminates the traditional chain's upkeep, providing the bike with matched power, reliability, and durability while keeping it lighter in weight. The Enviolo 380 continuously variable transmission (CVT) allows riders to shift gears effortlessly to their desired pace. Weighing 54.6 lbs, it is the lightest of the five e-bikes compared and is easy to carry.

💬POSSIBLE CONS

This is a pedal-assisted e-bike so it doesn't come with a throttle. It may not offer the freedom of control that some riders desire. Due to speed limitations, it may not be the fastest e-bike, but it can handle the tasks of a touring bike, light off-roading, and commuting.(Refer to:electricbikereport.com)

 

ZEMO SU-E FS11

✅PROS

The ZEMO SU-E FS11 is configured with a Bosch Performance Line CX Smart System mid-drive motor, which is a top choice for eMTB riders. With a 750Wh battery and 85Nm of torque, this e-bike is more like design for off-road adventure. One of its unique features is the option for dual batteries, making it perfect for longer off-road trips. The 100mm front fork and 80mm RockShox Deluxe Select+ rear shock provide excellent shock absorption for a comfortable ride. Additionally, the Magura MT eSTOP5/eSTOP4 180/180 mm brake system and Shimano 11-speed transmission system ensure that this bike performs well in mountain biking. It also comes with a GPS sensor and ABUS BORDO folding lock for added security.

💬POSSIBLE CONS

On the downside, the ZEMO SU-E FS11 is quite heavy at 69.2 lbs, which is more than the other bikes in this comparison. At €6999, it's also quite expensive for a step-thru e-bike. While the frame geometry of this e-bike is step-thru, its configuration is more suited for off-road riding. If you plan to use it for mountain biking, a sturdier frame geometry might be more appropriate.(Refer to:ebike-mtb.com)

 

CONWAY CAIRON SUV FS 5.7

✅PROS

The Bosch Performance Line CX mid-drive motor with 250W constant power and 625Wh battery capacity is suitable for both traveling and commuting. The rear triangle's unique design, coupled with the RockShox Recon Silver RL 120mm front fork and the FOX Float DPS 100mm rear shock, can provide a stable, comfortable, and safe riding experience. It weighs 62.6 lbs, making it relatively light compared to other models. The TEKTRO HD-T390 dual-piston brakes with 203mm front and 180mm rear brake discs deliver mountain bike-like braking performance, while the Shimano DEORE 10-speed transmission system provides a similar gear-shifting experience.

💬POSSIBLE CONS

The maximum payload of 222.7 lbs is relatively low compared to other models. If you plan to use it for traveling with something heavy, you should consider your weight and the weight you will be carrying. The rear triangle has many welded assemblies, which may look less refined and could benefit from improvement.(Refer to:ebike-mtb.com)

 

Frey CC

✅PROS

When compared to the other bikes mentioned earlier, Frey CC is moderately priced and has been around for a while. It's been tested by the market and is still a favorite among all kinds of riders. As an off-road step-thru e-bike, its frame is super sturdy and perfect, with a hidden rear shock in the front triangle that solves the issue of a high crossbar while also making the seat tube and front triangle stronger. You don't need to worry about the front triangle falling apart while riding on rough roads, which may be a problem with other bikes.

The battery has a capacity of 840Wh (the battery can be upgraded to 1008Wh), making it the maximum range and the largest capacity among these models, perfect for commuting and further traveling. The Bafang M620 mid-drive motor has the largest torque of 160Nm and is stable and powerful with a rated power of 1000W and a peak power of 1500W (which can be reprogrammed if desired). The CC also has a throttle, something that's not available in all the other models mentioned.

The Magura MT5e 4-piston brakes and Shimano 9-speed transmission system are designed for mountain biking and meet the gear-shifting and braking requirements for off-road riding. The RockShox 150mm front fork and 110mm rear shock effectively prevent discomfort caused by bumps during the journey. You can also choose between flat or mountain tires on the official website, and they offer custom sizing options, so even taller riders can find a bike that suits them.

💬POSSIBLE CONS

Like many of the bikes mentioned before, the Frey CC is still pretty heavy for an e-bike, weighing around 72.8 lbs. But, if you don't plan on carrying it upstairs, the weight can actually make your ride more stable thanks to its suspension and geometry.