Test / E-Performance: S-pedelecs are exotic in this country, but are booming in Switzerland. No wonder given attractive sports models like the Stromer ST3, which is also quite practical.
It's probably a rumor that the Swiss are getting a little more tranquil - but that certainly doesn't apply to cycling. This is not least due to the large share of fast pedelecs in the overall Swiss market: Of the 75.600 e-bikes sold in Switzerland in 2017, over 16.000 were fast models; this means that S-pedelecs have a market share of a good 20 percent. In Germany, on the other hand, only one in a hundred electric bikes is a 45 km/h model – around 7.200 of which were sold in 2017.
So it's no wonder that bikes like the Stromer ST3 are a common sight south of Lake Constance - beefy, elegant rigid bikes, often powered by powerful rear engines. German manufacturers, on the other hand, often rely on the proven trekking principle with their 45s, with an upright sitting position and suspension fork. Combined with a four-piston disc brake from the downhill area, this can result in an explosive mixture - so it's also no wonder that S-Bike riders like to orientate themselves to Switzerland and use the providers there. For example at Stromer, especially since the special manufacturer founded in 2009 has almost exclusively fast e-bikes in its range.
https://www.velomotion.de/2018/09/test-stromer-st5-2018-dieses-s-pedelec-macht-spass-und-hat-ordentlich-dampf/
What makes the Stromer ST3 special? Simply calling it a reduced version of the top-of-the-line ST5 is beside the point; After all, the bike, which costs almost 7.000 euros, is not a savings package. What the Stromer ST3 lacks in comparison to the top model is primarily the "Sport mode", which calls up the maximum power of the hub motor at the push of a button - with the ST5 850 watts and 48 Newton meters of torque. In contrast, the ST3 only offers three support modes and somewhat low top values of 820 watts and 44 Nm - a difference that is not really noticeable in practice, especially since the drive support is extremely powerful even at the lowest level. The hub motor works almost silently and has another advantage: In recuperation mode, it generates electricity that is fed into the battery. Not too much gets around, but the brake system can be spared on longer descents.
In the past, the generator function was a more important argument anyway. In 2010, the battery capacity was just under 400 watt hours, and it has now doubled to over 800. A 983 Wh battery is even available for a surcharge - with Bosch bikes, the ranges that can be achieved with this can only be achieved with a second battery.
Typical for Stromer is the on-board computer with touchscreen integrated into the top tube, which is easy to use. This makes keyless unlocking of the bike just as possible as operation via smartphone, although pairing was initially a bit cumbersome in the test. If everything is configured, you can look forward to good function. However, if you frequently check your ride data, you might be bothered by the fact that you have to lower your head to look at the display – but the smartphone on the handlebars can help here.
Like all bikes from the brand, the ST3 is equipped with derailleur gears - logical, because the hub motor is the only alternative that allows a bottom bracket gear. With eleven gears from 11 to 42 teeth, the transmission range is large; the huge 52 chainring already shows that you are rather fast on this bike. The powerful lighting system, which provides a super-bright headlight alongside the LEDs that are discreetly integrated into the head tube, also helps to set the pace.
The combination of voluminous 27,5-inch tires and rigid fork is typical of an urban speed bike. Stromer specifies a Pirelli tire with flat profile grooves, which feels easy to roll and offers good grip, but is quite sensitive when it comes to air pressure: if it is inflated too much, it quickly becomes uncomfortable; if there is not enough air in the tire, it will appear spongy. Here it is important to experiment depending on the driver's weight.
The absence of a suspension fork is typical for Stromer (and for the entire category of fast urban pedelecs). Especially at high speeds, this is definitely a disadvantage in terms of driving comfort; on the other hand, the rigid fork gets along well with the stable four-piston front brake. Although a Suntour suspension fork with type approval can be retrofitted, this also changes the steering geometry and thus the handling.
With three frame sizes, two different stems and three handlebar shapes, the bike can be optimally adjusted ergonomically; well-formed grips and an Ergon saddle provide additional comfort. The narrow luggage rack not only looks very elegant, it is also quite practical because it comes from Racktime and baskets and bags can be securely and stably clicked on. This makes the bulky, fast Stromer bike just as practical as it is thrilling - and definitely a good choice for commuters who are looking for an S-Pedelec for their longer daily journeys.
