Decathlon, a well-known French sports retailer, has recently introduced a new version of its Riverside 520 E e-bike. This e-bike, designed for city living, now comes in a step-through model, making it more accessible and user-friendly, especially for urban commuters. The step-through design is not just about ease of use for shorter riders; it simplifies the process of getting on and off the bike, making it a practical choice for city travels.
The Riverside 520 E is tailored for urban
environments. It’s powered by a rear hub motor with a 250-watt output, which is
in line with European e-bike rules. This motor offers enough power to handle
city hills, making it a reliable partner for daily commutes. The bike is also
equipped with a short-travel front suspension to tackle uneven city roads,
although its narrow tires suggest it’s best suited for paved surfaces rather
than off-road trails.
One of the key features of this e-bike is
its 500-watt-hour battery, promising a range of up to 62 miles on a single
charge, depending on the assist level used. This makes it a great option for
longer city commutes or leisurely rides around town. Additionally, the bike
features a torque sensor for a smoother ride, a detail that underscores
Decathlon’s commitment to quality and rider experience.
In terms of technology, the Riverside 520
E keeps things straightforward but efficient. The bike includes a multi-function
button for controlling assist settings, a display for speed and distance, and a
USB port for charging devices on the go. Comfort and convenience are also taken
into account with the inclusion of an ergonomic saddle and grips, as well as
standard basic lighting and a rear stand. However, extras like mudguards and a
luggage rack come at an additional cost.
Finally, the Riverside 520 E includes a
Microshift H081 drivetrain and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, ensuring reliable
performance and safety. Available in a single green color and in sizes S, M,
and L, the bike is priced at around 1,399 euros (US$ 1,510), making it a
competitively priced option in the e-bike market. This appears to be a
well-thought-out addition to the urban e-bike segment, offering a blend of
accessibility, functionality, and comfort for the modern city resident.