Its manufacturer praises its reputation as a “kart on two wheels”, but after having traveled almost 120 kilometers – over the Parisian cobblestones and the slaloms of the capital’s traffic – the Winora Radius seems to have everything a small saloon can offer.
Launched last June, it is the third in the series of “small electric urban bicycles” from the German brand. It succeeds the Winora Radius Tour and Radius Urban, launched in 2016 and 2018 respectively.
And the least we can say is that it has maintained good foundations. A low frame, a compact size, a short wheelbase (just one meter) and unfailing versatility. But is it worth its 3,500 euros?
A sedan on two wheels
During the first turns of the wheels, it is impossible to miss two important observations: the Radius is heavy, but comfortable. The two are linked. With its approximately 22 kilograms on the scale, it swallows all the small imperfections of the asphalt, making the ride in the saddle pleasant, with the spirit of a saloon.
Where the Radius stands out is thanks to its compact size. Only 109 centimeters of wheelbase (the distance between the axle of the rear and front wheels) for a frame height of 40 centimeters.
The saddle is telescopic and can be lowered and extended using an ingenious trigger located on the left of the handlebar. A feature, a kind of gadget, that should allow both short (1m55) and tall (1m95) people to sit comfortably in the frame. Also note that the handlebars can be placed on the axis of the frame. Ideal if due to lack of space to store bicycles you have to mount your Radius in your living room.
Special mention to the small 20-inch wheels that greatly help absorb small bumps. The German brand promises that its Radius will be able to support up to 150 kg in total. Not bad for such a compact bike.
The Bosch ecosystem: the essentials
To move such a mass (classic for a motorcycle in this category), at least electric assistance with torque was necessary. The Winora Radius is equipped with Bosch Performance Line, which develops up to 65 nm of torque. An engine that sits at the center of the German engine manufacturer’s electrical assistance hierarchy.
A 500 Wh battery helps the motor and this feels very good on false flats and small hills. Despite its weight, Winora Radius starts instantly, whatever the situation.
Data visualization is also a small hit on this mount. In the center of the handlebars, the screen is perfectly positioned and the data is accessible at a glance, enough for you to concentrate on your navigation. The only complaint: the screen sometimes lacks brightness. You will have to strain your eyes in very bright places.
In addition to the central screen, an LED control sits nicely under your left hand. The latter is equipped with a small trigger that will allow you to change the assistance mode, in addition to navigating the menus. It’s quite intuitive to use and doesn’t take long to get used to.
Good autonomy
During its test, our Winora Radius was pushed to the limit. The first 58 kilometers, entirely urban, were traveled in “Turbo” mode (the highest level of assistance offered by the Radius, which has five in total).
After a complete recharge of the battery (from 1% to 100%) in 4h48, it was ready to carry out the last section of our test, this time interspersed with urban and peri-urban passages. The “Eco” mode had no problems making us travel the 60 kilometers to finish this test in style. The screen even told us that 29% of the battery was still available, enough to travel another fifteen kilometers.
An important price
All the benefits of Winora Radius come at a price. And you will have to pay 3,500 euros for a new frame. Prices that are not easily accessible, especially since the competition offers bicycles of the same type at more affordable prices.
In particular, the Kalkhoff Image 3.b Advance or the Lapierre E-Urban 6.5. For 3,500 euros, we even find basic range electric scooters. That’s why it’s best to make your choice before taking out your wallet.
Source: BFM TV
