Table of Contents
Thinks I liked
- High-end technology combo offered
- Clean overall design
- Fully equipped with all accessories
Some potential improvements
- Pedal ground clearance could be increased
- More funcky colours could make it more appealing
- Grips could be ergonomic
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Motor assistance
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Battery range
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Weight
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Responsiveness & Comfort
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Accessories
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Technology combo
The Kalkhoff Endeavour L.B Move has been one of my favourite step-thru electric bikes from this brand.
L.B: Lightweight Bike
It is well-equipped for an urban setting and may be just enough for a little off-road adventure.
What have been my impressions after testing this commuter electric bike?
Important information about my review: This e-bike was loaned by Spokes Abbotsford for testing purposes, and all the words are my own. I have not been compensated to promote the bike store or the bike’s brand.
Kalkhoff Endeavour L.B Move Specs (basic)
| E-BIKE MODEL: 2023
MOTOR & TOP SPEED
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BATTERY
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RANGE (based on controller information)
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CONTROLLER, RIDING MODES, & DISPLAY
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FRAME
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GEAR SYSTEM
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BRAKING SYSTEM
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Kalkhoff Endeavour L.B Move WEIGHT
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| TYRES & SUSPENSION Tyres:
Suspension:
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SENSORS
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FEATURES
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PRICE
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Riding The Kalkhoff Endeavour L.B Move
First impression & fit
– I wasn’t impressed when looking at it from a distance; however, upon closer inspection, I noticed how smooth and clean the frame design was.
– I tested the medium (M) size Endeavour L.B frame, which was perfect for my height (1.80 m). Having a step-thru frame made it surprisingly accessible.
– The ground clearance felt okay, but I’d like to have a bit more height when taking some corners.
Kalkhoff Endeavour L.B Move real-time test ride
I took it for a test ride in some hilly areas. One of them was pretty steep. Although this Kalkhoff commuter e-bike can do some “gravel” paths, I mainly went for paved roads.
Test ride: No motor assistance
– When testing it without any pedal assistance on flat terrain, I was pleased with how easy it was to pedal, not feeling its weight. This changed when taking a slight incline; yet it still felt light to pedal.
Overall, I think riding the Kalkhoff Endeavour L.B Move without assistance is acceptable. Still, when compared to other electric bikes in its category, such as the Bianchi e-Omnia C-Type, I’d say it could do better.
Test ride: Eco mode
– The Eco mode was good enough on a flat surface; however, I sensed it struggled when riding on a 20% incline. In this case, the use of the gear system was essential to ease my efforts.
Overall, I think this mode is excellent for a smooth takeoff while waiting at a traffic light, and will provide enough assistance to cruise along a flat road.
Test ride: Turbo mode
– For the 55 Nm mid-drive motor torque that the Bosch Performance SX Line offered, I was pretty impressed. The motor got activated in milliseconds when sensing my pedal force, and took me to a descent speed (< 25km/h).
Overall, I think the Turbo mode performs well when riding on hills, but I’d be mindful that the battery will drain quickly.
Test ride: Tour mode (key test)
– Clearly, there was a considerable difference between Eco and Turbo modes. On the takeoff, it felt very smooth, and during the climb, it provided enough assistance to get me up the top.
– Regardless of the high performance of the mid-drive Bosch motor, I still had to adjust the gear system slightly to facilitate a smooth ride.
Overall, if you want to avoid frequent shifts between pedal assist modes and your riding conditions include a combination of flat and hilly terrain, the Tour mode is the one to use.
Test ride: Endeavour L.B Move comfort and ride feel
– One of my favourite things when riding the Endeavour L.B Move was its comfort. My lower back felt rested after a bit less than an hour test ride.
– Reaching the handlebars was also great, as my shoulders and neck felt relaxed when riding. I suppose the U-shape design contributed to this outcome.
Tech and Controlls: Bosch Purion 200
– As mentioned in my video, this has been the first time I’ve tested and seen the Bosch Purion 200. When compared with the Bosch Kiox version, I think:
- It does great as it also offers PAS customisation options
- It has a few additional e-bike readouts, and
- Its price tag is lower.
– My favourite feature was the “Shift Down” prompt (something I haven’t seen in the Kiox controllers). It is excellent to have the controller suggest playing with the gears, allowing the motor and battery to provide higher performance.
Features I Loved
1. Available bottle bosses: I was fascinated by the number of bottle mounts the frame came with. This is superb, as a large front rack can be installed for additional carrying weight capacity. And if battery range is an issue, it is possible to attach an external battery.
2. Tech used: For some of us, Shimano and Bosch work together quite well; a 9-speed Shimano groupset for easiness when riding, and Bosch to power it when things get too hard to ride.
3. All the gadgets included: for city commuting, the Kalkhoff L.B Move is a good option.
The Potential Deal-Breakers?
– Not really a huge deal breaker, but the 400Wh battery range (60km max on Eco mode) was a bit low, when I know other big brands are offering better. I guess the positive side of this downside is the reduced overall weight (at 22.5 kg), which also reflects in higher motor performance.
– Although I loved that more elements can be attached to the frame (e.g., a front rack), I think the torque might be too low to haul additional weight while maintaining sufficient motor performance.
Is the Kalkhoff Endeavour L.B Move Worth It? Verdict
If I were to look for an electric bike that is fully equipped, it has realiable technology and allows my body to feeling rested after a ride, I would give it a go; however, if I were to ride a long distance, then my sight might go somewhere else (I would not like having to charge the battery everyday).
What is your experience with riding this Kalkhoff Endeavour electric bike? Please share your story in the comments section below!
