A passing trend with no real substance, or the next big thing in the ebike market? Lightweight bikes weighing under 20 kg, offering plenty of comfort, a sporty look and just the right amount of electric tailwind? Sounds almost too good to be true! We put the 9 hottest electric gravel bikes to the test – both in everyday use and on adventures – to reveal what really matters, which bike will suit you best, and which bikes you’d better steer clear of.
Table of Contents
- Electric gravel bike ≠ electric gravel bike: why you need to read this group test
- The hottest electric gravel bikes of 2025: the group test lineup at a glance
- What exactly is an electric gravel bike? – Five key features
- What really matters – our 10 key takeaways from the electric gravel bike group test
- Tops and Flops – the most exciting highlights and low points from our test
- What’s the best electric gravel bike? Test results, winner and best buy!
- BMC URS AMP LT TWO
- Canyon Commuter:ONfly 7
- Moustache Dimanche 29.4 EQ
- ROSE BACKROAD Plus EQ
- R&M UBN Five Commute
- Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0
- Ultima Mobility eGRAVEL YIN SPORT
- Best in Test: Canyon Grizl:ONfly CF Daily
- Best buy: Specialized Creo 2
- Conclusion
Electric Gravel Bike ≠ Electric Gravel Bike: Why You Need to Read This Group Test
It’s the stuff dreams are made of: bikepacking adventures with an electric tailwind, flying along the Côte d’Azur, sun on your face, power at the pedals … pure freedom on two wheels. Fast, practical, effortless. That’s exactly what electric gravel bikes promise. But which ones actually deliver, and which are nothing more than a disappointing compromise, neither animal, vegetable or even convincingly mineral? One thing’s for sure: electric gravel bike ≠ electric gravel bike. This young category is far more diverse than you might think!
Complex suspension designs, a wide range of motor systems, and everything from fully equipped pack mules to stripped-back minimalists. Wait; what? Feeling lost in the fast-paced evolution of the electric gravel bike scene? You’re not alone! Even our test team learned a ton during this group test, taking a full 360° tour of the latest gravel-ready machines.
Electric gravel bikes are booming – and with every new wave of models, the confusion grows. Some are sporty and lightweight, others handle like mini electric SUVs. Some come with a serious power boost, others with just a gentle push. And somewhere between a thirst for adventure and everyday practicality, the lines start to blur: what still counts as an electric gravel bike – and what’s actually just a disguised eMTB or commuter?
We chose nine of the most exciting bikes and tested them where they truly belong: on dusty gravel trails, twisty city streets and long-haul tours loaded with gear. Our destination? Nice: the dreamy spot on the Côte d’Azur nestled between the Mediterranean and the foothills of the Alps. It has everything we’re looking for: epic gravel routes, wide boulevards, steep climbs and French cuisine. According to our test crew, the perfect testing ground 😉.
Our test cuts through the marketing fluff to separate the wheat from the chaff. We show you which bikes are genuinely fun to ride, which motors will have you climbing with a grin, and which bikes won’t hold you back on the descents either. At the same time, we reveal where unnecessary weight or annoying details can ruin the ride. In short: we’re here to help you find the perfect electric gravel bike; no bad buys, no frustration!
The Hottest Electric Gravel Bikes of 2025: The Group Test Lineup at a Glance
Whether you’re after an efficient commuting specialist for your daily ride to work, a versatile all-rounder for every occasion, or a true adventure machine for long bikepacking trips – our test lineup covers the full spectrum of what this category has to offer.
| Bike | Motor (torque) | Battery capacity | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMC URS AMP LT TWO | TQ-HPR50 (50 Nm) | 360 Wh | 14.52 kg | € 9,999 |
| Canyon Commuter:ONfly 7 | FAZUA Ride 60 (60 Nm) | 430 Wh | 18.24 kg | € 3,499 |
| Canyon Grizl:ONfly CF Daily | Bosch Performance Line SX (55 Nm) | 400 Wh | 17.68 kg | € 5,499 |
| Moustache Dimanche 29.4 EQ | Bosch Performance Line SX (55 Nm) | 400 Wh | 19.40 kg | € 4,899 |
| ROSE BACKROAD Plus EQ | Shimano EP8 (85 Nm) | 360 Wh | 17.22 kg | € 4,999 |
| Riese & Müller UBN Five Commute | FAZUA Ride 60 (60 Nm) | 430 Wh | 20.82 kg | € 4,999 |
| Specialized Turbo Creo 2 Expert | Specialized 1.2 SL (50 Nm) | 320 Wh | 15.78 kg | € 8,500 |
| Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 | Specialized 2.0 (70 Nm) | 710 Wh | 27.42 kg | € 5,000 |
| Ultima Mobility eGRAVEL YIN SPORT | ZF CentriX (75 Nm) | 504 Wh | 17.66 kg | € 7,238 |
| Average (all bikes) | 63 Nm | 436 Wh | 18.75 kg | € 6,070 |
| Average (electric-gravel only) * | 62 Nm | 391 Wh | 17.58 kg | € 6,590 |
* Average excludes the Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 and Canyon Commuter:ONfly 7, which don’t fall into the electric gravel bike category.
One thing up front: there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Many of the bikes in this group test have their own sweet spots, while some turn out to be disappointing compromises. Choosing the right model depends heavily on your personal preferences and intended use. Are you looking for a lightweight, efficient city bike that’s easy to manoeuvre through everyday traffic? Or is off-road performance your top priority, with suspension, wide tires and maximum comfort? Price is another key factor – our test field ranges from € 3,499 to € 9,999, offering options for a wide range of budgets and expectations.
Why an electric gravel bike might not be the right choice for you
A sporty look, a hyped-up bike concept and (if you believe the marketing) endless versatility. No wonder electric gravel bikes have become the dream machine for so many riders. But look just beyond the edges of this category, and you’ll find other ebikes creeping into the same territory, often with a slightly different focus.
On the more rugged, off-road end of the spectrum, you’ve got e-SUVs: built on the foundation of full-suspension e-mountainbikes, but kitted out with mudguards, racks and lights to become everyday all-rounders which are still more than capable on proper MTB trails. The Specialized Tero X is a prime example, taking the top spot in the e-SUV group test run by our sister magazine E-MOUNTAINBIKE. With its impressive comfort, confident trail performance and stable handling, it shows exactly where e-SUVs have the upper hand – and for some riders eyeing up an electric gravel bike, it might even be the better choice.
At the other end of the spectrum, you’ll find urban ebikes – purpose-built for life in the city. With no suspension, narrower tires and agile handling, they feel most at home on paved roads and cycle paths. The upside? Lower weight and a more affordable price tag. Enter the Canyon Commuter:ONfly – a flat-bar urban specialist featured in our test. It scores points with its clean, stylish design and strong everyday practicality. If you’re after a sleek alternative to an electric gravel bike and plan to stick mostly to urban routes, this could be the one to watch.
Together, these two bikes help to clearly draw the boundaries between electric gravel bikes, e-SUVs and urban commuters, making it easier for you to find the one that truly fits your needs.
Bigger is Better, Isn’t It?
If you go by price alone, the most expensive bike in the test field is neither the most powerful, nor the one with the biggest battery. Quite the opposite! Just like with featherweight carbon road bikes, what you’re really paying for in the world of electric gravel is what doesn’t show up on the scales.
Taking out the two burly outliers with flat handlebars, the average weight comes in at 17.58 kg, with an average battery capacity of 391 Wh and average torque of 62 Nm. The takeaway? Most electric gravel bikes rely on so-called “light motor systems” – smaller, more compact units with lower torque and reduced battery capacity compared to full-power motors. The goal is simple: to keep weight to a minimum and deliver pedal assistance that feels as natural as possible.
What Exactly Is an Electric Gravel Bike? Five Key Features
Electric gravel bikes are far more than just trendy gadgets for tech enthusiasts. They combine sporty dynamics with an electric tailwind, and they can make all the difference when it comes to riding further, faster and with less effort. But what exactly makes them so special? Here are five good reasons why an electric gravel bike might be just the right choice for you.
1. Lightweight meets power – how much does an electric gravel bike weigh?
Your back’s aching, your legs are shaking, and sweat is pouring down your face. If you’ve ever lugged a fully loaded 35 kg ebike down a flight of stairs to a railway platform, you’ve probably made yourself a silent promise: never again. And you’ll have to drag it all the way back to the top again on the way home… With most models weighing well under 20 kilograms, electric gravel bikes are true lightweights among motorised bikes. That means no sluggish handling, and no awkward manoeuvres. Whether you’re shouldering it down the stairs, lifting it over a fallen tree on the trail, or squeezing it onto a packed commuter train, an e-gravel bike stays nimble and manageable. And that’s despite the added electric boost. The balance between weight and motor support is spot on for the sporty DNA of these bikes – encouraging you to keep pedalling, while still giving you a helping hand when it counts.
2. Compact cargo kings – carrying gear on an electric gravel bike
Ouch! The AirPods case is digging into your back, pressed in by a laptop-laden rucksack. Without decent carrying options on the bike, even the most ordinary commute can turn into an uncomfortable ordeal. That’s where electric gravel bikes shine, offering versatile solutions for transporting gear. Many models come fitted with a rear rack as standard, capable of carrying 15 to 25 kg of load. On top of that, several bikes feature dedicated mounting points on the frame and fork for bikepacking bags – ideal for better weight distribution, though they’re not always the most convenient for everyday use. Need more carrying capacity? Some models are trailer-approved; ready to take on anything from a weekly shop to a house move 😉. In most cases, the storage provided by off-the-shelf racks is more than enough, whether you’re heading to the farmers’ market or off on a multi-day ride. That said, sportier models like the BMC URS AMP LT skip the rack altogether, and even go with lighter, low-torque motors to save weight. But don’t worry – the electric support on all other bikes in the test is more than powerful enough to handle a full load, even on steep climbs. And when it’s time to descend with packed bags, bikes with smooth, stable handling like the Specialized Turbo Tero X and Canyon Grizl:ONfly really come into their own.
3. One bike to do it all – who is an electric gravel bike really for?
Electric gravel bikes are built to blur the lines between practical commuter, capable adventure rig and fun-focused fitness machine. They’re designed to feel just as much at home weaving through city traffic as they are cruising along gravel tracks, forest paths or mellow trails. Commute to work in the morning, squeeze in a speedy spin through the fields on the way home, and head off on a multi-day tour at the weekend – with the right electric gravel bike, you don’t have to choose just one type of riding.
4. Built for speed – how fast is an electric gravel bike?
Tired of sluggish ebike tanks? Then electric gravel bikes are just what you’re looking for! With their active riding position, narrower tires and sporty drop-bar design, e-gravel bikes are built to go fast. Unlike heavier e-SUVs with chunky MTB tires and overbuilt components, they stay nimble and efficient, even beyond the 25 km/h motor cut-off. If you love putting power through the pedals yourself, you won’t be held back by excess weight. Instead, you can save that extra boost until you need it the most.
5. Looks fast; goes fast
Electric gravel bikes no longer stand out like traditional ebikes – and that’s a good thing. Most models feature a sleek, understated look with fully integrated batteries and discreet motors that are barely noticeable at first glance. If you’re after a bike that looks every bit as sharp and athletic as a regular gravel bike, but packs some hidden extra power when you need it, this is where you’ll find it.
Whether it’s your daily commute, a quick spin after work or a full-blown adventure on remote trails – an electric gravel bike brings together the best of several cycling worlds, making mobility more versatile than ever. But not all models are created equal. Some are built for maximum performance, others shine with comfort and versatility. Certain motors work so smoothly you’ll barely notice them, while others deliver a more noticeable kick of power.
And then there’s the big question: where’s the line between electric gravel bikes, e-SUVs and urban e-bikes? Which features are essential, which are just nice-to-haves, and what really justifies a higher price tag? We’ve got the answers.
What Really Matters – Our 10 Key Takeaways from the Electric Gravel Bike Group Test
1. Not all electric gravel bikes are created equal
Price, quality and intended use vary significantly. While some models (like the BMC URS AMP LT) are clearly focused on sporty performance, others prioritise all-out comfort or everyday practicality. The differences in motor system, weight, spec and ride feel are huge – and it’s exactly these factors that determine whether a bike becomes your perfect all-round companion, or turns out to be a frustrating compromise that takes the fun out of riding and complicates your daily routine.
In our group test, we put every bike through its paces – from everyday practicality to off-grid adventure readiness. Tight city centres, last-minute dashes down station stairs, steep ramps with full luggage, and rough gravel descents were all part of the challenge. We also looked at smart everyday features, protection from wet weather, and of course, overall riding fun.
Our test base? The stunning coastal city of Nice on the Côte d’Azur – a true e-gravel paradise with its maze-like old town and nearby mountains packed with gravel routes. And yes, escaping the cold, damp winter for a week… that wasn’t exactly a hardship either.
Our electric gravel bike test in the French coastal city and its surrounding mountains uncovered some eye-opening insights. Up next, we’ll tell you what to look out for when buying an e-gravel bike, what can put the brakes on your riding experience – and which surprises left us genuinely impressed.
2. Versatility varies widely
Not every electric gravel bike is a textbook do-it-all machine. Versatility is one of the most frequently promised benefits of the category, but in reality, not all models cover the same range of use cases equally well. Some bikes, like the Canyon Commuter:ONfly or Riese & Müller UBN Five, are clearly most at home on asphalt and struggle when the going gets rough. Others, like the Moustache Dimanche, can handle loose gravel or even light trails with ease. Only a few – like the Canyon Grizl:ONfly – truly shine across all types of terrain. Tyre width and tread, as well as suspension systems, play a crucial role here. Without grip, comfort and proper control, your off-road adventure can quickly end with a not-so-glamorous crash into the nearest ditch.
3. Safety is in the details
But safety on an electric gravel bike isn’t just about grip and off-road control. Braking performance is just as critical. Thankfully, in our test every bike was able to reliably bring rider, bike and cargo to a halt. E-SUVs like the Specialized Turbo Tero X stand out here with larger brake rotors, wider tires and front suspension, offering noticeably stronger and more stable braking, especially under load.
In urban environments, visibility and proper lighting are key. Some bikes, like the Canyon Grizl:ONfly and Riese & Müller UBN Five, come equipped with full lighting systems that are powerful enough for night riding. Others, like the Canyon Commuter:ONfly, rely on more basic lights designed primarily to make you visible, rather than to light the way.
4. The balance of sportiness
Too much of a good thing isn’t always the answer – and that applies to electric gravel bikes as well. Oversized, knobbly tires, bulky suspension forks and rear shocks like those on the Specialized Turbo Tero X might boost comfort and control off-road, but they take a toll on sportiness and weight – those two factors go hand in hand. Some bikes, like the BMC URS AMP LT, weigh in at under 15 kg and come impressively close to the feel of a classic, non-motorised gravel bike. Others, like the Riese & Müller UBN Five, tip the scales at over 20 kg due to their larger batteries and beefier frames – and you’ll definitely notice that extra heft once the motor support cuts out at 25 km/h, or when you’re lugging the bike up to your second-floor flat. This is exactly where e-SUVs differ most from electric gravel bikes. Their added weight, higher rolling resistance and comfort-focused suspension systems all come at the expense of their agility and sporty character.
5. The motor system shapes the bike’s character
The motor system plays a defining role in shaping a bike’s character. In our test, torque output ranged from compact light-assist motors with a gentle 50 Nm to full-power systems delivering up to 85 Nm. Lightweight units like the TQ-HPR50 or Specialized SL 1.2 still provide plenty of support to get you up steep climbs without draining your energy.
Powerhouses like the Shimano EP8 or ZF CentriX, on the other hand, are almost too much for typical e-gravel use – they’ll rocket you uphill, even with minimal effort on your part (until the battery runs out). And let’s be honest: it’s hard not to enjoy that 😉.
6. It’s not just battery capacity that determines range
What doesn’t come from your legs has to come from the down tube. Battery capacity is a key factor when it comes to how far you can actually ride. In our test, electric gravel bike batteries averaged 391 Wh – noticeably less than the full-power systems found on e-SUVs, which often pack batteries twice the size. That difference is clearly reflected on the scales too!
A powerful motor paired with a small battery might look great on paper – loads of power, low overall weight! But in practice, that combo can quickly turn into a letdown if you find yourself merely riding between plug sockets. In one of our test rides, with an 83 kg rider and plenty of elevation gain, the ROSE BACKROAD Plus EQ ran out of steam in Turbo mode after just over 30 km. The takeaway? High range, low weight, strong support – pick two!
Another key factor is battery removal. Five out of the nine bikes in our test field have non-removable batteries – meaning the entire bike has to be brought to a power outlet for charging. Among the electric gravel bikes, only the Riese & Müller UBN Five and Ultima Mobility eGRAVEL YIN allow you to charge the battery separately from the bike. That can be a real issue if you live on the fifth floor without access to a garage or basement with a plug. It’s also a challenge for commuters who want or need to top up the battery while at work. Range extenders can help in some cases, giving you just enough extra juice to make it to the next socket. With only about half the capacity of the main battery, they’re far from a perfect solution.
A non-removable battery can be a real dealbreaker in certain situations!
With an average price of over € 6,000, bike theft quickly turns into a serious disaster. That’s why models like the Canyon Grizl:ONfly CF Daily and the Riese & Müller UBN Five come equipped with built-in security and tracking systems to help you stay one step ahead. Both brands offer GPS tracking free of charge for the first year. After that, continued use requires a subscription at € 4.99 per month.
7. When it comes to everyday use, practicality is everything
In everyday use, usability is key. And that goes beyond intuitive controls – it’s also about smart, practical features that make your daily life easier. Take the Riese & Müller UBN Five, for example, which includes a built-in charging port for your smartphone. Or the Canyon Grizl:ONfly, which comes with a bright headlight featuring a high-beam function, and a rack fitted with Ortlieb’s QL 3.1 mounts for panniers. In contrast, sportier electric gravel bikes like the BMC URS AMP LT often lack essentials such as rack mounts or a kickstand interface. That limits their versatility and makes retrofitting a real hassle. Even the frame material plays a role in day-to-day usability. Four out of the nine bikes in our test use carbon fibre frames – not coincidentally, they’re also the four lightest. But when you’re parking at a busy train station, you might think twice before wedging your carbon speedster into a cramped bike rack and looping a heavy-duty chain around the frame. Unlike aluminium or steel, carbon isn’t particularly fond of knocks and bumps.
8. Racks – and rack-ish compromises
Load capacity is another key factor – especially if you’re planning to use your electric gravel bike for long tours or daily commuting. You’ll need reliable options for mounting bags or a rack. In this respect, the bikes in our test vary significantly. Some models, like the BMC URS AMP LT, are built as pure performance machines with no thought given to luggage. Others come ready for everyday life, complete with sturdy racks – or even trailer approval, like the Canyon Commuter:ONfly.
Not all racks are created equal. The real difference lies in the maximum load they can carry and the mounting options available. In our test, load limits ranged from 15 kg on the ROSE BACKROAD Plus EQ to 25 kg on the Moustache Dimanche. If you’re looking for a true pack mule, it’s worth checking in advance what the manufacturer actually approves. When it comes to mounting systems, the Ortlieb Quick-Lock 3.1 stood out for its ease of use and secure fit.
Only the BMC URS AMP LT and the Ultima Mobility eGRAVEL YIN offer no mounting points for a rack at all. For more performance-oriented riding, bikepacking bags are a good alternative – they distribute the weight across multiple points on the frame, making the bike easier to handle even when fully loaded.
9. Comfort isn’t just about suspension travel
Comfort becomes absolutely essential on longer rides and rough terrain – it’s the key to long-term riding enjoyment. The right tires, a well-thought-out damping system and balanced frame geometry can make a huge difference. In our test, the sweet spot between rolling resistance, grip and vibration damping was found at a tire width of 45 mm. The Schwalbe G-One Overland tires fitted to the Canyon Grizl:ONfly Daily proved to be excellent all-rounders in this regard. The ideal riding position strikes a balance – upright and comfortable when you want it, but also sporty and efficient when you need it. The Ultima Mobility eGRAVEL YIN fell short here, with a noticeably stretched-out geometry that can become uncomfortable on longer rides. Ergonomics at the contact points – cockpit and saddle – also play a crucial role in overall comfort. Since comfort is highly individual, one golden rule always applies: try before you buy!
When it comes to suspension, our test field covered everything from completely rigid, like the Canyon Commuter:ONfly, to ultra-plush, as seen on the Specialized Tero X. These two outliers mark the extremes, but even among the proper electric gravel bikes, there are significant differences. Light elastomer suspension systems in the stem add minimal weight, but can’t compete with suspension forks or more advanced damping setups like those on the Specialized Creo 2 or BMC URS AMP LT when it comes to performance and control. Another key factor is how well the suspension is balanced between front and rear. A suspension seatpost, like the one on the Canyon Grizl:ONfly, or a built-in rear shock, as on the BMC, adds comfort at the back and helps reduce impacts through your spine – especially over longer distances or rougher terrain.
10. In the end, it’s all about what puts a smile on your face
Even on a commuter bike designed for everyday practicality, the fun factor shouldn’t be overlooked. Whether it’s the extra motivation to leave the car keys at home in the morning, or simply the joy of riding – time in the saddle is time well spent. A bike that puts a smile on your face every time you ride it is usually the right one. And yes, looks do matter too: from clean, understated designs and sporty frames that barely reveal their ebike identity, to burly builds with functional styling and chunky batteries – there’s something for every taste.
Electric gravel bikes bridge the gap between bulky, sedate e-SUVs and urban commuters that simply lack the grip and comfort for proper gravel adventures. They offer an impressively wide range of use – from daily commutes to multi-day escapes off the beaten track. Some of the bikes in our test manage to impress across the board, delivering well-balanced handling in every scenario. Their recipe for success? Low weight, high comfort motor systems tailored for gravel use, and smart features paired with well-thought-out specs.
Tops and Flops: The Most Exciting Highlights and Low Points from our Test
Tops
Flops
What’s the Best Electric Gravel Bike? Test Results, Winner and Best Buy!
BMC URS AMP LT TWO
The BMC URS AMP LT TWO is both the most expensive bike in the test at € 9,999 and the lightest, weighing just 14.52 kg. It’s clearly built for sporty adventures, not everyday practicality. Powered by the discreet TQ motor delivering 50 Nm of torque, it provides natural-feeling support – but it also demands active pedalling. Thanks to its low weight, it’s a pleasure to ride even without motor assistance. If you’re after a versatile commuter, this isn’t the bike for you. For gravel enthusiasts and performance-focused bikepackers, the BMC delivers a uniquely dynamic riding experience – one that comes impressively close to a traditional analogue gravel bike.
Canyon Commuter:ONfly 7
At € 3,499, the Canyon Commuter:ONfly 7 is the most affordable bike in the test, and it’s clearly aimed at urban commuters looking for a fully equipped ebike. With a removable battery, mudguards and a rear rack, it ticks all the practical boxes for city riding. The FAZUA Ride 60 motor delivers smooth, sufficiently punchy support for urban use, while its direct steering and relatively low weight of 18.24 kg make for a nimble, agile ride. However, that comes at the expense of comfort and stability at higher speeds, or on rougher terrain. If you’re after a stylish, well-equipped city bike, this one’s a solid choice. For gravel adventures or more performance-oriented riding, the Commuter:ONfly 7 falls short.
Moustache Dimanche 29.4 EQ
At € 4,899, the Moustache Dimanche 29.4 EQ is the second most affordable bike in the test – and delivers heaps of riding fun along with impressive off-road performance. With its playful handling, paired with wide MAXXIS tires, a dropper post and a suspension stem, it offers superb control on gravel, light trails and even tarmac. At the same time, full commuter-ready features like mudguards, a rear rack and integrated lighting make it perfectly suited for everyday use. That said, the non-removable battery, slightly higher weight of 19.4 kg and awkwardly placed charging port do compromise its overall usability. But if you don’t have to carry it upstairs to charge, the Moustache delivers a versatile, agile and genuinely fun e-gravel bike at a fair price – one that’s sure to put a smile on your face.
ROSE BACKROAD Plus EQ
The ROSE BACKROAD Plus EQ pairs the most powerful motor in the test – the Shimano EP8 with 85 Nm of torque – with a relatively small, non-removable 360 Wh battery. This combination, along with its sporty riding position and relatively low weight of 17.22 kg, delivers an impressive kick of acceleration; ideal for fast commutes or picking up the pace on adventure rides. But be warned: switch to Turbo mode and the battery drains quickly. The extensive spec, including integrated lights, mudguards and pannier rack, gives the BACKROAD solid everyday credentials. However, it does fall short when it comes to comfort on rough gravel tracks. All in all, the ROSE BACKROAD Plus EQ positions itself as a fast, powerful e-gravel bike – best suited for commuting and touring on smoother, more predictable terrain.
R&M UBN Five Commute
The stylish Riese & Müller UBN Five Commute is the heaviest electric gravel bike in the test at 20.82 kg, but its removable 430 Wh battery offers welcome flexibility when it comes to charging. Equipped with the FAZUA Ride 60 motor delivering 60 Nm of torque, it provides strong support – even when the rear rack is fully loaded. Features like the RX Connect digital theft protection system with GPS tracking, narrow 40 mm slick tires and a built-in lighting system make it an excellent choice for city use, and cycling on tarmac routes outside urban areas. For proper gravel adventures, though, a tire upgrade with more grip is highly recommended.
Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0
As the only e-SUV in the test, the Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 brings together the full package of an electric mountain bike: plenty of suspension travel, wide MTB tires with serious grip, a flat bar, upright riding position and a dropper post. The result? Maximum comfort and control – whether you’re on rough gravel tracks, mountain bike trails or just commuting through town. Sporty sprints beyond 25 km/h? Not so much. With a total weight of 27.42 kg and high rolling resistance, it’s not built for speed – carrying it up stairs or over fallen trees is far from fun. But as a true pack mule, the Tero X shines. Even when fully loaded, it delivers a stable and confident ride. It’s the perfect choice for those who want to combine comfort, utility and off-road adventure.
Ultima Mobility eGRAVEL YIN SPORT
The Ultima Mobility eGRAVEL YIN SPORT stands out with its striking design, innovative leaf spring fork, and powerful ZF CentriX motor delivering 75 Nm of torque, paired with a 504 Wh battery. Despite all that, it remains pleasantly light at 17.66 kg. For € 7,238, you’re getting a technical statement built for sporty touring. However, the combination of a strong (and at times noisy) motor, a stretched-out riding position, and somewhat vague handling doesn’t always feel harmonious. The ride loses some of the natural feel that defines the best e-gravel experiences. A shorter stem could noticeably sharpen the handling and improve overall comfort. Without rack mounts, everyday practicality takes a hit. This is a sporty electric gravel bike with a bold silhouette, powerful motor and large battery – but while it has a clear sense of style, it’s missing a clear sense of direction.
Testsieger: Canyon Grizl:ONfly CF Daily
Sometimes you really do want it all – and that’s exactly what the Canyon Grizl:ONfly CF Daily delivers. At just 17.68 kg and € 5,499, it undercuts the test field average in both weight and price. It commutes effortlessly through the city, carries your gear on long tours, and pulls you out of your comfort zone at the weekend, when the tarmac turns to gravel. This is a bike that refuses to compromise – it doesn’t ask you to choose between everyday practicality and off-road adventure. The secret? Thoughtful spec choices, superb comfort thanks to a suspension fork and seatpost, and a host of clever features that blend function and fun in all the right ways. No other bike in the test offered better all-round performance. Congratulations to the well-deserved test winner!
Kauftipp: Specialized Creo 2
At € 8,500, the Specialized Creo 2 is first and foremost a fun machine to ride. At just 15.78 kg, it’s by far the lightest fully equipped bike in this comparison. With its intuitive, sporty handling, premium build quality and refined motor system, it delivers a superbly natural ride feel – and when it comes to pure riding pleasure, it even outshines the test winner. However, when it comes to everyday usability – and of course price – it has to take second place to the Canyon Grizl:ONfly CF Daily. Still, it’s perfectly suited for sporty rides and gravel adventures. And unlike many other performance-focused e-gravel bikes, the Creo 2 allows for racks, lights and mudguards to be added later, transforming it into a capable commuter that doesn’t sacrifice fun, even when fully loaded. A well-deserved Best Buy recommendation!
Conclusion
Electric gravel bikes offer an exciting blend of freedom, fun and functionality – but not every model delivers on its promises. The motor systems vary significantly in power output and how naturally they provide support. If you want to glide effortlessly over gravel, you’ll need to pay close attention to weight, handling and riding position. Comfort? Often underrated, but absolutely essential for long-distance rides. And then there’s the big question: are you after daily practicality, pure adventure, or a bit of both? Finding the perfect bike is no coincidence. It all comes down to figuring out your needs and preferences – and making sure your bike fits them.
Words & Photos: Jan Richter
