HOW TO DISCOVER THE NEW WORLD: CYCLING

With approximately 22.8 million bicycles in the Netherlands, of which 1.8 million are electric, the country is a true cycling nation. This is evident from the start.

With approximately 22,8 million bicycles in the Netherlands, 1,8 million of which are electric, we are a real cycling country. This is already evident from the fact that the Netherlands has more bicycles than inhabitants. And that is unique in a world full of exhaust fumes. Time for one bike upgrade? LXRY List 2021 lists a number of options for you.Online editor: Natasha Hendriks

Ceepo Shadow-R

Racing bikes, as you see in the Tour de France, are limited in development by the regulations of the UCI. There are fewer restrictions in triathlons, so there are sometimes gems that take aerodynamics to a higher level. The Ceepo Shadow-R is in the aerodynamic category. With its horizontal front fork and minimal frontal area, the Shadow-R almost gives the triathlete an unfair advantage. But yes, if you have to complete a triathlon, you are given every advantage. The frame costs €6.500, so the complete bike starts at €10.000 when assembled to a high standard.

Merida eONE-SIXTY 10K

The electric mountain bike is becoming increasingly popular. This is a real advantage, especially in mountainous areas. Uphilling is the new downhilling. In the past, you used to take a non-electric downhill bike up the ski lift, after which you would descend at a blistering pace. What happens now? Less well-trained people cycle uphill with an e-mountain bike. There they eat a nice schnitzel and drink a beer, after which they take the ski lift down. The top model of 2021 is the Merida eONE-SIXTY 10K, with carbon frame and wheels, Shimano XTR gears and brakes, a powerful Shimano EP8 motor (85 Nm) and 630Wh battery. This means no climb is too long or too steep. The sophisticated geometry with a 29" front wheel and 27,5" rear wheel makes descending on even the most technical trails a pleasure. Weight of the bicycle, without battery, is 19,99 kg.

Serial 1

Don't have an e-bike yet? Then take a look at these bikes from Serial 1, which are powered by Harley-Davidson. There are various models available, all equipped with a nice dose of intelligence. For example, we find hydraulic brakes that adapt to your driving behavior and the makers have thought carefully about the placement of the battery and motor: these are relatively low, so that the bicycles have stable road holding. Furthermore, the streamlined design is striking: the cables are concealed and the various accessories, such as lighting, have a minimalist appearance. The Serial 1 Cycles 'powered by Harley-Davidson' will be available in the course of 2021. Target price: from €3.300.