Test: The Dutch bicycle manufacturer Batavus feels obliged to give each of its bikes four clear attributes: quality, safety, comfort and design. We chose the Batavus Senero E-go 500 to test these and other features.
As already mentioned, Batavus is committed to the predicates: quality, safety, comfort and design. These are the four characteristics that should have priority at Batavus and that the customer should find in all Batavus bikes, including the Batavus Senero E-go 500. All bikes are made in our own factory in Heerenveen in the Netherlands in the most environmentally friendly way possible with a special focus on Styling and design as well as Dutch quality. Just like they were developed by experienced professionals with great attention to detail, says Batavus.
Batavus Senero E-go 500: The quality
How do you recognize the quality of a bike? In addition to the attachments, also on its frame, it is the heart of a bike. All Batavus frames are finished, painted and decorated in the factory in Heerenveen, the Netherlands. Frame development and quality control also take place in the Netherlands. The plant in Heerenveen has its own sewage treatment plant, which, for example, recycles the water from the painting process. In addition, the factory only uses green electricity, which is confirmed by the Nuon Groen Garant certificate, among other things.
The chassis of the Senero is a pleasure to look at. the coating is obviously of high quality and the choice of color shows that you want to convince while driving and not scream for attention. The processing is impeccable. The weld seams, the cable routing, the shapely motor mount and the harmonious pipe cross-sections make this clear.
We also have nothing to complain about with the attachments. The core is the Yamaha engine. This works extremely well and convinces us again and again. You can also hear from the specialist trade that the drive also cuts a very good figure in terms of longevity. The Shimano gear hub, here it is an 8-speed Alfine, will do its job with ease. Hydraulic rim brakes from Magura fit into the image of the carefree bike. A suspension fork with the Batavus label and a suspension seat post from XLC noticeably increase comfort. Quality check - passed!
The Batavus Senero conveys security
The seating position on the Senero gives a good overview of what is happening on the track. Due to the fairly low step-through of the trapezoidal frame, a quick dismounting is also easily feasible. The load distribution between the front and rear is balanced and the handling is predictable. The cockpit looks stable, as does the frame, and nothing wobbles or rocks. The Schwalbe tires always keep contact with the ground and the hydraulic HS11 rim brakes from Magura reliably bring the Batavus to a standstill. We would wish for disc brakes for very long or steep descents, but that's not where the Senero is used with its 8-speed hub gear. It wants to be moved on flatter or moderate altitude profiles. So is the Senero safe? Yes of course!
Driver comfort
A bike ride is only fun if it doesn't pinch and hurt everywhere. In contrast, the Batavus Senero has a lot on board. You don't have to exert yourself too much, because the Yamaha drive pushes you hard. Fortunately, it still conveys a natural driving experience and never gets uncomfortably loud. In the higher support levels, however, it is quite audible. The Selle R0yal saddle and the XLC spring support pamper the buttocks, which is particularly important when sitting upright.
The shape of the handlebars and grips is also very successful. A highlight is the tool-free adjustable stem, so the steering unit can be quickly and easily adapted to the needs and preferences of the driver. The suspension fork at the front ensures good contact with the road and comfort at the same time. Thanks to the steel spring, it is very sensitive, but not lightweight and can only be adjusted to the driver's weight to a limited extent. Nevertheless: The comfort is definitely right.
Batavus Senero: The design
Unexcited, but well thought out and quite self-confident, that's how you could describe the look of the Batavus Senero. Restrained black with green details. Green can be found on the main frame in graphic elements and lettering. A strut of the luggage rack also picks up the color. The Batavus lettering can be found on the frame as well as on the fork, even as a 3D relief. The headlight and the front reflector are beautifully integrated into the fork casting. The design language here is intended to be reminiscent of a Dutch tulip. The frame shapes are harmonious and the connection of the motor to the frame is well implemented. Due to its design, the Batavus hardly attracts attention in a positive sense, there is little that can strongly polarize, the bike should appeal to almost everyone. In terms of design, everything is for the best.
