Test / Urban: Yes, they still exist! The high-quality urban bikes without a motor; Even if e-bikes seem to have the upper hand in this bike category in recent years, there is still a market for well-equipped, classic urban bikes above the 1.000 euro mark. Just like the Batavus Suerte. The traditional manufacturer from Heerenveen in the Netherlands can look back on more than 100 years of experience in the two-wheeler sector and the details on the Suerte show this expertise.
But before we delve deep into the technical matter, let's stay with the basics: the Batavus Suerte is only available in one equipment variant, but with two different frame shapes. In addition to the trapezoidal frame with a slightly lower step-through, a classic men's version is also available. In terms of color, Batavus relies on understatement - the wheel comes in matt black and does not use large color accents, the Batavus lettering on the down tube stands out with its shiny surface. Noble!
If you take a closer look at the simple and chic Suerte, it becomes clear which features seem to have been the focus of development: Equipment and frame are characterized by robustness and low maintenance and do not stand out unpleasantly from the minimalist look. “The Star of the Show” is undoubtedly the driving force. The Alfine 11 gear hub is the highest quality hub gear from Shimano and covers a range of over 400% - not even one or the other MTB drive can keep up. So you should always find a suitable gear, regardless of whether it's going up a steep hill or downhill quickly.
On the Suerte, it is not a classic chain that is responsible for transmitting the torque from the crank to the hub, but a Gates carbon belt. This has several advantages; on the one hand, it requires far less maintenance than any chain. It doesn't need to be lubricated and lasts about three times as long. An additional plus: If you travel a lot in winter, you don't have to worry about the effects of road salt - a belt doesn't rust! Finally, a strap stays cleaner than a chain in most situations and you don't have to worry about a dirty pant leg. As additional protection, Batavus even installed a small chain (or rather: belt) guard on the Suerte.
Equipped like this, the Batavus Suerte is perfect for everyday use by frequent drivers. The rest of the equipment also fits in with this approach: the fenders are pleasantly wide, don't rattle even on poor ground and it's long enough at the front to keep your feet dry even on wet roads. Speaking of the front mudguard - there is another highlight to discover here: the front headlight. This is integrated into that mudguard and blends in wonderfully with the elegant look of the black urban speedster. Thanks to the integrated daytime running lights, it always ensures good visibility. The integration of the rear lighting is no less elegant; this is located in the luggage rack.
Perhaps the decisive argument for or against a bike is not technical finesse or visual elegance, but the driving experience. Here the Suerte knows how to score with really successful ergonomics and a surprising amount of comfort. Surprising because the designers have dispensed with both a suspension fork and a spring support. Good for low maintenance! Of course, the Batavus rumbles a bit on bad roads. As mentioned, the difference to models with cheap trekking suspension forks is surprisingly small. The well-cushioned Schwalbe Road Cruiser tires also play their part in this.
When it comes to ergonomics, variability is the order of the day on the Suerte. The adjustable stem has a large adjustment range and is pleasingly stiff - significantly better than many competing products. The Selle Royal saddle is quite wide and heavily padded for an urban bike. This is a matter of taste and fits the overall approach of the Suerte, but probably not all drivers like it. On the other hand: Which saddle does that?
The driving experience on the Suerte is harmonious. One component meshes with the other and you get the impression that the bike was designed with a clear plan. Comfort and relaxed handling are clearly in the foreground - perfect for leisurely tours, everyday errands or the way to work. However, if you are looking for a nimble city runabout, you might be disappointed. In view of the sporty total weight of 16,4 kg without pedals, the liveliness leaves something to be desired. Also to be noted: The permissible total weight is rather low at 120kg. After deducting its own weight, there is a little more than 100kg of payload left, which could be tight for tall or heavy drivers (+ luggage).
