The Kalkhoff Pro Connect S10 resembles the S27 in that it uses a Panasonic drive system with E-Performance. Includes an air suspension fork with lockout, fenders, lights, ergonomic grips and efficient 700C sized wheels. It’s a capable city bike, urban commuter or touring bike given the rear rack design and efficient mid-drive system with pedal assist that extends range. The big difference is in the number of gears offered. With the S10 you get a standard Shimano XT 10 speed cassette and with the S27 you get a combined 9 speed cassette and 3 speed geared hub. The other difference I noticed was with the handle bar design, the S10 is a bit more aggressive and flat. The bikes are priced similarly and perform like champs given the low center of gravity.
Note that I was unable to film a test ride on this ebike for the video review due to poor lighting conditions (it was night time) but I did try several other Kalkhoff models and was impressed by their smooth responsive characteristics. This speed-pedelec version uses a larger motor and can achieve speeds in excess of 25 miles per hour which is great for long distance riding. Note that in the image at the top of this review you can see a license plate mounting point hanging off the rear end of the rack. This is required in some states for high speed electric bikes.
The motor system is made by Panasonic. It’s geared and mounted at the bottom bracket which keeps weight low and central to the frame. With 350 watts of power and both torque and cadence sensors at work, this thing is capable, fast and smooth. When it senses your cranks in motion going forward it kicks in and pulls the chain. By doing this, it is able to leverage the same cassette you do as a rider and that’s what helps it climb more efficiently and reach incredible distances on one charge. Note that you’ll have to select your gears thoughtfully in order to truly maximize range but for normal riding this should happen naturally.
The battery pack is also mounted low and center and locks directly to the frame for security. It is removable which makes charging easier (especially if you commute to work and top off the charge there) and reduces the overall weight of the bike during transport. This is especially handy if you’re lifting the bike onto a car rack or putting it onto a bus. The pack uses Panasonic cells with Lithium-ion chemistry for light weight and longevity of charging cycles. It offers 36 volts of power and 14 amp hours of capacity which is on the large side and that’s what helps it to reach 55+ miles per charge.
The control system on this bike is easy to reach and intuitive to use. Mounted on the left handlebar, it has rubberized buttons that allow you to select different pedal assist levels and explore the speed, range and precise battery capacity remaining. It’s pretty basic, using a monochrome screen, but better than a simple LED indicator. I really like the included bell that sort of hangs below the computer console. This, along with the lights adds a bit of safety when riding and the lights can be operated through the display console.
In conclusion, the Pro Connect S10 is a high end commuter style electric bike made in Germany. While it’s somewhat difficult to find in the USA, to me it represents the next generation of efficient and fast electric bikes that are equipped for real life transportation. Given that it was raining during my visit to San Francisco (where I tested these bikes) I appreciated the fenders. It’s nice to have everything working together on a bike like this but for the price, one may consider how much it costs to add their own fenders and lights to an existing bike.
Very affordable Bosch powered electric city bike, comes with all of the accessories you need for commuting in rain or shine along with several comfort upgrades. Integrated LED lights, with an aimable headlight, keep you visible and help you navigate in…...
One of the most popular bikes in the Kalkhoff line, it comes in four frame sizes, three frame types (including wave step-thru) and two colors, impressive two-year complete warranty. Excellent hardware including Shimano hydraulic brakes, and internally geared 8 speed hub (that can be…...
A premium speed pedelec designed for hassle free, reliable and quiet commuting with a two year warranty, available in four frame sizes for improved fit, adjustable stem. The Gates carbon belt drive is near-silent and stays centered with CDX tracking technology, an…...
One of the most capable step-thru cruisers around, excellent range, stiff frame, good weight distribution and safety features. Aluminum alloy fenders and rear carry rack are painted to match the frame (and they…...
A long-range capable comfort electric bike available in wave (step-thru) or diamant (high-step) style and four frame sizes. Efficient mid-drive Impulse 2.0 motor system, center-mounted Lithium-ion battery pack, dynamo powered lights, full length…...
An extremely capable, thoughtfully engineered and moderately comfortable commuting or touring style electric bike. This ebike seems to have everything from dynamo powered LED lights with safety "standing mode"…...
A premium compact electric bike with excellent weight distribution and a powerful responsive motor. Up to 85 miles per charge, utilitarian fenders, chain guard, carry rack and dynamo powered…...
Truly premium electric bike with top of the line accessories and a sophisticated mid-drive motor system. Dynamo powered LED lights, ergonomic grips, quality fenders with mud flap on the rear, rack…...
Urban commuter bike with efficient Panasonic mid-drive motor capable of higher top speeds (25+ miles per hour). High end features including Magura MT4 hydraulic disc brakes, SKS fenders, rack with mini-pump, integrated…...
Setup for urban riding or distance touring with a more active, forward leaning geometry. High end feature set including Shimano XT drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, Continental Eco Contact tires,…...
While not officially a folding bike, the stem does pivot and pedals do fold to create a slim profile. Rigid frame paired with oversized Schwalbe Big Ben ballon tires creates a solid but comfortable…...
Great hill climber due to geared mid-drive motor and internally geared eight speed rear hub. Quality build with full range of accessories including fenders, dynamo powered lights and rear rack...
Light weight, efficient city style electric bike with mid drive and internally geared 8 speed hub. Ready to ride with fenders, lights, chain guard, bell and a simple LED console interface...
Amazing hill climber, Impulse mid drive motor leverages eight speed internally geared hub. Premium commuting extras including fenders, enclosed chain guard and dynamo powered LED lights...
paul
11 years agoI would point out that because of the length you will not find many buses that will take this on the front bike rack.
Reply