Stromer ST5 Commuter Electric Bike Review: The Fastest?

The Stromer ST5 is an electric bike with a difference that comes at a very high price. 

I know that all e-bikes have one big purpose: to replace cars, but I don’t think all of them can give what the Stromer ST5 offers, which is: speed.

From all the components used, the frame-integrated battery and efficiency of the motor take up most of its high cost.

While its commercial value is very high, the components used to design and build this Swiss-made electric bike are the reason for the price.

Compared to other competitors trying to build similar models, like Giant with the Giant Quick E+, the brand still offers more features to riders.

Of course, it is important to know its limitations, so let’s find out why you could consider buying it.

Stromer ST5 Specs

What Was Custom-Made?

Forgetting about the price and weight, the ST5 version has a few custom-made elements:

• Tubular alloy fenders, which will catch any dirt when wet.
• Front and rear lights. The front light is embedded in the frame.
• Automatic locking system using a smartphone.
• The touchscreen controller is placed on the top bar.
• Integrated horn.

For a battery with a range of 110 miles (180km), you could think of how heavy it could be (4.44 kg – 9.8 lbs)); however, it can always be removed to lessen the weight, especially before mounting it to an automobile rack.

The best of all is that the heaviness does not impact the acceleration.

The frame and fork have an aluminum alloy structure, which gives more than enough strength and durability.

The company also considered safety and decided to have the head and rear lights be extra bright when using the brake. This is beneficial for oncoming traffic to see you, especially at night.

Standout Features

– The first thing I noticed was the powerful motor. I expected to have a noisy one when pedaling, as most over 500-watt motors do, but the gearless SYNO Sports hub motor was quiet for the 850w configuration.

– I liked the regenerative braking offered with five (5) levels of recoup. Even though it is not much you can get in extra miles from the 4-piston design and hydraulic disks, this is fantastic for the battery life, which is expected around 1000+ cycles.

– Another fantastic thing I saw is that the motor is separate from the pedal drive train and does not interfere while shifting. This means the drivetrain system will last longer as the motor won’t put extra stress on it.

– The 11-speed Shimano XTR derailleur shift is electronic with Di2, which means the chain will re-position every time. This is another positive addition, as one of the most common issues riders face is having the chain coming off the drivetrain.

– You can fine-tune the Di2 system shifting by holding the button found on the black port at the backside of the seat tube for a couple of seconds.

– One more highlight is the OMNI LCD color screen. With the rubberized button below the screen, you can view the ride and set menus.

Know that you need to use the display to eject the battery pack. Make sure you have some battery left.

– Another cool feature is having the display with a light sensor that shifts from a white to a black background automatically.

– Lastly, all of the settings are managed by using a smartphone. I think this could limit your options if you can’t access your phone.

Should You Buy It?

If you have the money to spend, this would be a great buy, considering the features offered.

The 2022 model is one of the most luxurious and influential commuter e-bikes to date in Europe. However, as with any product, it has its difficulties.

Reasons to Buy

• When riding close to automobiles, you get a sense of confidence and control as the electric bike reaches up to 29.5 mph (45 km/h) quickly.
• If you forget to downshift, the motors are powerful enough to get you back up to speed for quick climbs without pedal support.

• It may lack suspension, but the thick Pirelli tires are big enough to provide the minimum comfort while riding.
• If you care about cables not being exposed, this one has a clean design. Actually, it looks very slick.
• The battery is easily removable, which reduces its overall weight.
• The OMNI LCD controller screen is in color and offers top-level assistance in bright red to distinguish the selected mode.
• The derailleur has a one-way clutch and keeps the chain tight when taking on bumpy rides.
• There is a USB port that can be used to connect any device, like your phone. It’s a very important feature.
• The pedal assist feels responsive and smooth as it relies on the TMM4 torque sensor.
• With the built-in wireless technology, you can lock and unlock remotely, so it is not easy for thieves.
• It has a touch screen with GPS tracking and an anti-theft system. The electronic shifting is perfect, and the hydraulic disc brakes cool off fast.

Reasons not to Buy:

• For a commuter electric bike class 3 or S-Pedelec, it is heavy (approx. 30 kg), if compared to other models like the Vyron Cumulus Pro, which is 23 kg.
• It is expensive compared to most other e-bikes, but the price is reflected when looking at the high-end components.
• The bolts securing the wheels are T70 star drivers, which is rare to find.
• The frame was built only for people with a height between 1.68cm and 1.85 cm.
• There could be too many issues with local regulations (Europe regulates reflective tires) as the speed is over the maximum of 25 km/h. Read the following guide for more details: Electric Bike Laws In Europe
• The handlebar cannot be adjusted or replaced with an adjustable conventional one because it is custom-made for the e-cycle.
• So far, customer service is good, but I’m sure replacing a faulty part could cost you a lot. Anyway, if you are buying it is because you can afford it.

All in all, if you have the money to buy the Stromer St5 electric bike, and if the local regulations allow, I would definitely invest in this beauty.

Images courtesy of Stromer