A fatbike test ride in fact, is the best way to determine if a bike fits your business needs. Fatbikes actually have unique riding qualities due to their wide tires and also electric assistance. So this gives a completely different experience than regular bikes. Therefore, in this article you will read why a fatbike test ride is so important and what to look out for during testing.
Why is a fatbike test ride so important?
In fact, a fatbike test ride gives you immediate insight into the unique riding experience these bikes offer. This is because the wide tires provide a different handling than you are used to. The electric support also has specific properties that differ per model. Therefore, you can only really judge whether a fatbike suits you when you ride it.
Discover handling on different surfaces
In fact, during a fatbike test ride you will discover how the bike reacts to different surfaces. Fatbikes behave differently on asphalt, cobblestones or gravel because of their special tire profile. The thick tires give you more grip and stability than narrow tires. So you notice this especially when you ride over bumpy roads or also streetcar rails.
For business use, it is therefore important to know how comfortable you are during longer rides. So test if the bike is suitable for your daily routes. For this, also ride over the surfaces you normally encounter.
Experience the belt drive
In fact, the belt drive of modern fatbikes offers a quieter and also lower-maintenance experience than traditional chains. So you really notice this while riding. Indeed, the smooth transmission and also the lack of shifting noises are characteristic of a belt. So for business users, this means less maintenance and also more reliable performance.
The STOER UrbanX namely has a Gates CDX belt drive. This belt lasts up to 3 times longer than a chain. So you don't have to lubricate the belt and it doesn't get dirty. So this keeps you always clean, even when you have to go to a customer.
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What should you look for during a fatbike test ride?
In fact, during a fatbike test ride, you need to pay attention to several aspects. So you can get a good idea of the bike and then make an informed choice. Below you can read which points are important.
Test the electric support
Therefore, start your fatbike test ride by testing the electric support in different modes. In fact, modern electric fatbikes usually have 5 levels of support that you can adjust according to your needs. So test how fast the motor responds when you start pedaling. Also pay attention to whether the transition between levels is smooth.
This is because the STOER fatbikes have a Bafang motor with 55Nm of torque and also 2-speed automatic gears. This means the motor automatically shifts to the right gear. So you don't have to shift gears yourself and can fully focus on the road.
Check the brake quality
During your fatbike test ride, also check the brake quality carefully. This is because fatbikes are heavier than regular bikes, especially with electric components. Thus, powerful brakes are necessary for safe riding. Therefore, test both the front brake and also the rear brake separately and together. Also pay attention to whether the brakes engage evenly without locking up.
In fact, the STOER models have Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with integrated brake lights. These brakes thus offer reliable stopping power in all conditions. Because of this, the brake lights also warn traffic behind you immediately when you stop.
Assess stability and balance
In fact, stability and also balance are unique aspects of fatbikes that you should experience during a test ride. Therefore, try out different speeds, from slow maneuvering to also normal riding speed. Also test how the bike reacts to turns and whether you feel safe when making sharp turns.
This is because the UrbanX's thick CST 20×4 inch tires give you extra stability and also grip. So this makes you feel safer in traffic. The tires also do not get stuck in streetcar rails, which is thus an important safety aspect in the city.
Test practical functionality
In fact, for business use, practical functionality is very important. If the fatbike has luggage racks, also test how they affect ride quality with and also without a load. Also check that all electrical functions work, such as lights, display and also any USB connections.
During your fatbike test ride, also pay attention to the comfort of saddle and also grips. This is because what seems comfortable when standing still can feel different after a longer test ride. The STOER bikes therefore have a luxurious leather saddle with room for 2 persons. So also test different saddle positions if possible.
View the accessories that you can add to your fatbike.
How long should a fatbike test ride be?
In fact, plan for a thorough fatbike test ride for at least 30 to 45 minutes. So this will give you enough time to try out all the features and also get a good feel for the riding qualities of the bike.
The first 10-15 minutes: getting used to it
This is because you need the first 10 to 15 minutes of your fatbike test ride to get used to the handling. In fact, fatbikes often feel different than you expect, especially when you are used to narrower tires. So give yourself time to get comfortable before you make a judgment.
Therefore, start on a quiet stretch of road where there is little traffic. So you can safely experiment with the controls and also the support levels. So this will help you get a good feel for the bike faster.
Test in different situations
During your fatbike test ride, ideally also test in different situations that you encounter on a daily basis. Therefore, ride around town and also test the behavior at traffic lights where you often have to stop and also start. Also try a longer straight stretch where you can really experience the electric support.
Also pay attention to how the bike performs in hills or also headwinds. This is because the Bafang motor with 55Nm of torque gives you enough support to take hills effortlessly. The 720Wh battery also offers a range of 80 to 100 kilometers because of this. So you don't have to worry about an empty battery during your test ride.
Multiple days of testing if possible
If possible, try testing the bike on different days. This is because weather conditions can affect riding behavior. So what feels comfortable on a dry day may be different in light rain or also wind. For a business purchase, it is therefore valuable to know how the bike performs in different conditions.
"We always advise customers to take an extensive test ride," says co-founder Thomas of STOER Bikes. "After all, that's the only way you can find out whether the bike really suits you. At our dealers, you can therefore always take your time for a thorough test ride."
Therefore, plan a test ride at one of our dealers.
Where can you test ride a fatbike?
In fact, it is best to take a fatbike test ride at a specialized dealer. This is because these dealers have experience with electric fatbikes and therefore know the specifications of their models. This also allows them to answer specific questions.
Specialized dealers
In fact, STOER Bikes has an extensive network of dealers throughout the Netherlands and also Belgium. These dealers often have mapped out test routes that highlight different aspects of the bike. This therefore gives you a complete picture of the riding qualities.
Also ask if you can test the bike in an urban environment similar to your daily routes. This is because that way you will experience directly how the fatbike behaves among other traffic, at traffic lights and also on different road surfaces.
Test on different substrates
During your fatbike test ride, also test on different surfaces if possible. After all, fatbikes are designed for more than just asphalt. So try them out on clinkers, bike paths and possibly some gravel as well. So this will give you a more complete picture of the bike's versatility.
This is because the thick fatbike tires give you grip on almost any surface. So this is a big advantage for business users who ride different routes. As a result, you don't have to worry about slippery or also bumpy roads.
Compare different models
Therefore, for those who want to compare different fatbike models, it is useful to test at several dealers. After all, each brand has its own characteristics. Thus, what is perceived as comfortable with one manufacturer may feel different with another.
Indeed, STOER Bikes offers three models: the UrbanX, CityX and also CargoX. In fact, the UrbanX is the best fatbike 2024 according to AD Fietstest with an 8.5. The CityX therefore has a low entry for easy mounting and dismounting. The CargoX is therefore ideal when you also want to transport heavy loads.
| Feature | UrbanX | CityX | CargoX |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | €3.199 | €3.299 | From €6,495 |
| Engine | Bafang 55Nm | Bafang 55Nm | Bafang 92Nm |
| Battery | 720Wh | 720Wh | 960Wh |
| Range | 80-100 km | 80-100 km | 60-100 km |
| Distinctive | Best fatbike 2024 | Low Entry | 150 kg load capacity |
| Ideal for | Commuting | City shuttle | Business transportation |
What should you do after your fatbike test ride?
In fact, after your fatbike test ride, it is important to evaluate your experience. So you can make an informed decision about your purchase. Below you will find tips for after your test ride.
Evaluate your experiences
After your fatbike test ride, take some time to write down your experiences. Therefore, write down what you liked and also what was less pleasant. Think about the comfort, the support, the brakes and also the stability. This makes it easier to compare later when you have tested several bikes.
Ask the dealer questions
After your test drive, also ask the dealer questions about issues you noticed while driving. Namely, ask about the warranty terms, service costs and also the availability of parts. In fact, STOER Bikes offers a 2-year warranty on the battery, motor and also all moving parts. So this ensures that your investment is protected.
Consider insurance
Also consider insurance for your new fatbike right away. In fact, STOER Bikes offers specially developed insurance with 3 years of new value coverage and also no deductible in case of theft. This also gives you 24/7 roadside assistance. View the insurance page for more information.
Take contact on for advice on which fatbike is best for you.
In summary, always take a fatbike test ride
In fact, a good fatbike test ride will give you all the information you need for an informed business purchase. So by taking the time for a thorough test and also checking the right aspects, you avoid disappointment. This will also ensure that your fatbike really suits your business needs.
During your fatbike test ride, pay special attention to the electric support, brake quality, stability and also comfort. Also test the bike in different situations and also on different surfaces. Therefore, take at least 30 to 45 minutes for a thorough test.
After all, at STOER Bikes we understand the importance of an extensive test ride. That's why our dealers are happy to help you find the perfect electric fatbike for business use. Schedule a test ride and find out which STOER bike suits you best.
Want to know more about fatbikes for business use? Then also read our blog about the STOER CargoX For heavier loads.