The best compact-e bikes 2025: test winner & tips for every wallet!

The best compact-e bikes 2025: test winner & tips for every wallet!

compact-e-bikes have become increasingly popular in recent years, mainly because of their versatility and low space. They are ideal for trips in the caravan, for city apartments and for trips on field and forest paths. According to Imtest were tested five models, including the test winner I: SY N3.8 ZR CX Comfort and the price-performance winner Tern NBD S5I.

All tested e-bikes are equipped with 20-inch tires and are characterized by their compact design, which makes them smaller than conventional trekking or city e bikes. The most expensive model in the test is the I: SY N3.8 ZR CX Comfort, the price of which is around 5,000 euros. It convinces with high overall ratings in the areas of equipment and brakes as well as a range of up to 54.5 km.

test results of the models

• i: SY N3.8 ZR CX Comfort
  Price: approx. 5,000 euros
  Equipment: good (2.0)
  Range: 54.5 km
  Brakes: very good (1.1)
  Weight: 150 kg total weight
• tern nbd s5i
  Weight: 25 kg (lightest wheel in the test)
  Range: 59.5 km (best value)
  Equipment: satisfactory (2.8)
• flyer upstreet1 7.43
  Price: 4,699 euros
  Range: 54.5 km
  Brakes: very good (1.0)
• Bergamont Hans-e n5e Belt
  Weight: 28.8 kg
  Equipment: satisfactory (3.0)
• Velo de Ville Keb 590
  Weight: 28 kg
  Price: 5,048 euros (most expensive bike on offer)

The differences in the price and the technical equipment are reflected in the test ratings. All models have Bosch drives, whereby the torque varies between 55 and 85 Nm. In addition to the range, the compact-e bikes also offer high load-bearing capacity and transport options, which are particularly advantageous in urban environments.

market development and technical aspects

In the past, compact bikes were considered a niche issue, but the e-bike boom, which was triggered by the Corona pandemic, has meant that more and more manufacturers offer compact e-bikes with high-quality equipment. The technical dominance of Bosch in the engine area, especially with the Active Line Plus and Performance Line, plays an important role. Five well -known manufacturers, including I: SY, Flyer and Bergamont, rely on powerful drives that achieve excellent climbing values.

The tested compact bikes have all batteries with at least 500 watt hours, which are usually housed behind the seat tube to facilitate the handling. In addition, the total weight of the compact bikes is between 24 and 28.8 kg. Low -maintenance concepts, including with the help of carbon straps and encapsulated hub circuit, have also established themselves.

The brake systems of different manufacturers were also evaluated in the test, whereby high safety standards are achieved. Advances in the equipment reduce comfort losses that could arise from the absence of suspension forks and the use of smaller tires. Tire widths of at least 55 millimeters are recommended for driving comfort.

With prices that vary from 3,449 euros (Gepida Pugio Pro Belt Nexus 8) to 5,048 euros (Riese & Müller Tinker 2 Vario), the offer covers a wide price range. The progressive technological development and the adaptation of the models to the needs of buyers make compact-e bikes an attractive choice for urban mobility and travel.