Differences in eBikes aside, both electric bicycles were designed with one idea in mind: to cater to the modern-day urban commuter while fitting top components in a modern and minimalist design. LEKKER bikes enable you to ride smoothly and move the Amsterdam way. The Amsterdam+ and the Amsterdam GT electric bikes were designed with similar goals in mind, therefore, they might look alike but have certain, exciting differences.
Similarities
Let’s start with the similarities. The Amsterdam GT and the Amsterdam+ are both step-over bikes and urban electric commuters. Both eBikes are belt drive bikes, meaning that they are both equipped with the Gates Carbon Drive System which allows for smoother rides and removes the noise of the traditional bike chain. The simplicity of a belt drive bike comes from the fact that the Gates Carbon Drive system requires practically no maintenance as it does not need lubrication or tensioning. Furthermore, both eBikes have an aluminium frame with an integrated, removable battery case. Lastly, the Amsterdam GT as well as the Amsterdam+ can go up to a top speed of 25km/h with motor support and have a freewheel function that allows you to go faster on muscle power alone.
Differences
The first, and probably the most noticeable, difference is the weight. The Amsterdam GT is relatively heavier than the Amsterdam+. With its 18kg, the Amsterdam+ is pretty much a lightweight in the category of eBikes, while the Amsterdam GT’s 23kg come from the Enviolo hub seamless gearing system and the weight of the mid-drive motor.
The gearing system and the motor are the next two differences between the two eBikes.
The gearing system. While the Amsterdam+ is a single speed eBike, the Amsterdam GT is fitted with the more recent Enviolo Hub system. Having a single speed eBike can be favourable when cycling in crowded cities. No need to lose your time and attention switching gears. Additionally, the level of assistance provided by the motor also adapts itself to the pace at which you are pedalling. However, if you are looking for continuous and stepless control over the speeds, the Enviolo Gearing Hub, which the Amsterdam GT is equipped with, is most suitable. It gives you the gearing ratio that is equivalent to an 11-speed gearbox with an added 310% ratio freedom to choose your speeds from.
The motor. The Amsterdam+ is fitted with a rear motor, located on the back wheel of the eBike, and has 32Nm of torque, which is the engine’s rotational power. This type of eBike motor is relatively simple and highly reliable for daily usage. The Amsterdam GT uses a mid-drive motor, which is heavier but also more powerful, due to its 85Nm of torque. It is not only perfect for your daily commutes but also for long-distance travels and tougher paths. Both eBike motors are Bafang motors with a high level of reliability and lifespan.
Another difference between the Amsterdam+ and the Amsterdam GT are the tyres.
The tyres. They provide a smooth feeling when riding both electric bikes. The tyres on the Amsterdam GT are thicker with a relatively small profile. These 28-inch gravel tyres allow you to easily ride on uneven surfaces like off-road paths adapt perfectly to the Enviolo gearing system. The tyres on the Amsterdam+ work best on smooth roads and short pavement sections. With 26.5 inches they are smaller and need a lower tyre pressure.
The last difference between the two electric bikes is the electric sensor.
The electric sensors. Both eBikes have the traditional electric sensor that is placed next to the pedals and detects when you start pedalling. This way, the electric sensor directly sends a message to the motor to activate more power. The difference here is that the Amsterdam+ has a rotational crank sensor that observes how fast the pedals are moving and then sends a signal to that motor so that more motor power is released based on that. The Amsterdam GT has a rotational sensor and a torque sensor that estimates how much pressure you are putting on the pedals while pedalling and then informs the motor about how much assistance may be required. In turn, the motor mimics the natural bike riding experience more closely.
What does all this mean?
As you have probably guessed from the technical differences, the Amsterdam+ and the Amsterdam GT electric bikes might be from the same range but answer different needs. All in all, the Amsterdam+ is a lighter and more simplistic electric bike, that will allow you to freely commute on the busiest city streets. It is the perfect eBike for short and mid-long distances in and around the city. The Amsterdam GT eBike, on the other hand, is fitted with additional features allowing you to ride, for example, on uneven terrains. The Amsterdam GT is the ideal bike for mid-long to long distances, for instance when driving from outside of the city into the city. Putting the differences aside, both eBikes will take you anywhere you need in no time and in no sweat.
Ride safely and ride lekker!
