December 13, 2024 - The Culture is a stylish, rugged, and effortlessly zippy e-bike from German powerhouse Riese & Müller. Perfect for urban commuters and weekend explorers, we were excited to test it via Curbside Cycle in Toronto, as this lightweight and comfortable e-bike is a joy to ride in all conditions.
eighing under 50lbs (22.3kg), the Culture accelerates quickly, maneuvers easily, and can be carried up stairs or lifted onto a bus bike rack with ease – a boon for downtown dwellers!
Starting with a classic frame design, Riese & Müller have added their own flair with an elegant bend in the top tube. The matte finish matches current trends, and the minimalist style is ideal for a cyclist who wants a modern look. An optional rear rack can be added to carry panniers and/or a child seat.
The recently developed Bosch Performance Line SX motor is slim and streamlined, while being both strong and silent. With 65Nm of torque available, it delivers a 300% boost to your own efforts. You’ll hardly hear it whispering as it powers you up hills or into a headwind, even when carrying a load of groceries or a growing toddler.
The integrated Bosch 400Wh battery lasts for days of ordinary use and can be supplemented with a range-extending 250Wh battery pack to take you on longer adventures – up to 75km before you’ll need to recharge. It takes just three hours to fully charge a spent battery right inside the bike, accessed by a port on the downtube behind an elegant swing-mounted door. For theft prevention, the battery can only be removed by a licensed mechanic; therefore, it is necessary to have access to an electrical outlet where you store this e-bike for charging.
The standard LED Remote on the left side of handlebar offers a quick and easy visual of your speed and power level – Eco, Tour, Sport, Turbo – while an SPC+ interface (sold separately) provides the option of attaching a smartphone which can offer more metrics via the free Bosch Home Connect app. A larger Bosch Purion 200 display is also an optional add on.
Our test model was equipped with a Shimano 8-speed Nexus hub gear transmission that delivered smooth and precise shifting. Paired with a virtually maintenance-free Gates carbon belt drive CDC that’s standard on the Culture, other drivetrain options include a Shimano 10-speed derailleur or a continuous Enviolo hub gear.
For extra comfort on rough surfaces or long rides, you can opt to add a Suntour NCX-D suspension fork with 63 mm travel and suspension seatpost. Generous fenders have you covered against water and grime, and the saddle’s matte finish, plus the rubbery grip of the handlebars help guard against any slipping even in heavy rain.
The 28 x 2” Schwalbe Big Ben balloon tires grip the road securely on wet or uneven surfaces and also help cushion bumps. Magura MT A2 disc brakes ensure that you can stop on a dime in any conditions, and the sleek Herrmans H-Black MR8 headlight and integrated Büchel Nano COB taillight mean you’ll see, and be seen, at night.
Available in three sizes (50cm, 56cm, 62cm) and a classic Diamond (high crossbar) frame, or mixte style (step-thru frame) for an optimal fit. The ergonomic design is accessorized with a Selle Royal Essenza Eco saddle, Herrmans grips, and M-Wave steady flat pedals.
An Oi Knog super-sleek bell, discreetly nestled against the shifter, has a lovely tone and a long sustain to catch the attention of others nearby. Also included are Curana mudguards, and an Ursus R90 Mooi kickstand.
Sustainability is a priority for Riese & Müller, and the Culture is no exception as the frame is a blend of recycled and new aluminum for a strong and responsive feel.
Of note, since the summer of 2024, Riese & Müller has been certified to the international standards ISO 9001 (quality management systems) and ISO 14001 (environmental management systems).
Their plant has a field of solar panels on the roof which powers their production machinery; adding in green electricity from the public grid, the factory gets 80% of its energy from clean sources, supporting climate change projects to offset the remaining 20% (and they’re working on getting that figure to 100!).
By offering high-quality components that are more durable and can be repaired or replaced, R&M’s e-bikes are designed to ultimately save money and minimize waste.
Combined with its sturdy construction the Culture delivers confidence and reliability – key factors when you depend on your two wheels to get to work, pick up your child from school, or to be on time for appointments.
Whatever combination you choose, the Riese & Müller Culture urban e-bike will get you where you’re going – stylishly, dependably, and with a lot of fun along the way.
The SRP is $6,759 (as tested $7,387) and for more information please visit here.
