Batavus Finez E-go review: thoughtful class
The Batavus Finez belongs to the category "scientifically designed for comfort." This may sound like marketing hype, but the collaboration with TU Delft is very real: mathematical models for each frame size, measurable stability, upright position without back pain. And that's precisely where, as is often the case, the trap lies: you buy it for its comfort and ANWB ratings, but you forget to check which exact version you're choosing (Active Plus vs. Power, 400 vs. 500 Wh, and the year is decisive for the Smart System).
Written by: Jos Mans | February 12, 2026 | Reading time: 7minutes
About the author: Jos Mans
Jos is a writer and cyclist, most often both at the same time. With thousands of miles under his belt and just as many words on paper, he combines his two great passions: being on the move and telling stories.
Key findings
- The Finez earned 4 stars from the ANWB and the highest rating for "most comfortable seating position" among all e-bikes tested, but weighs between 29 and 32 kg. Stable to ride, less comfortable to carry.
- The big difference is between Active Plus (50 Nm, €2,549) and Exclusive Plus (75 Nm, Enviolo continuously variable transmission, €4,299). For urban use, the €1,750 extra is not essential.
- The Vizi lighting with V-Light (laser projection onto the road) is remarkably effective, but the motor remains audible and the kickstand can sometimes get in the way of the pedals—minor annoyances in everyday use.
What type of bike is the Batavus Finez?
The Finez is an urban and touring e-bike focused on comfort, designed around a simple idea: riding in an upright position, with stability, without back pain after 20 kilometers. Batavus asked TU Delft to develop a mathematical model that optimizes the geometry according to the frame size. In 2024, the ANWB awarded it the highest score for seating position, and in 2020 it won the RAI Fiets van het Jaar award. This is not empty marketing talk: we are talking about accomplished engineering here.
The base model is the Bosch Active Line Plus (50 Nm) in most versions. This defines its character: designed for smooth riding in the city and on flat terrain, not for steep climbs with luggage. It is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes (ANWB rating 9.3/10) and a DuoShock suspension fork that absorbs bumps. I would describe this motor as "smooth" rather than "powerful," which is perfectly consistent with the bike's DNA.
Main versions
- Finez E-go Active Plus – 400 Wh, Bosch 50 Nm, Shimano Nexus 8
- Finez E-go Power – 500 Wh, Smart System (BES3)
- Finez E-go Power Exclusive – Gates belt drive, Shimano Nexus 9
- Finez E-go Power Exclusive Plus – Bosch 75 Nm, Enviolo continuously variable transmission
The difference between BES2 (2021-2023) and BES3 (2024+, Smart System with application) is greater than one might think, especially in refurbished. Personally, I would always choose BES3: it is more scalable and sustainable.
Frequent errors of judgment
1. Weight as an abstract number
29 to 32 kg seems standard for an e-bike. When riding, stability is excellent, even in crosswinds. But if you have to carry the bike regularly (train, basement), every kilo counts. Climbing one flight of stairs is still feasible, but two flights of stairs every day with 30+ kg becomes tiring.
2. Marketing autonomy vs. reality
Batavus advertises "54–160 km" for the 500 Wh battery. Technically true in Eco mode, on flat terrain, under ideal conditions. In practice, in Tour mode with wind, expect 70–85 km. The difference between 400 and 500 Wh is more like 15–20 km in real terms, not 40 km. But this extra margin provides welcome peace of mind. For an extra $150–200 for refurbished, I would always choose 500 Wh.
3. Not an engine for the mountains
The Active Line Plus (50 Nm) is smooth and urban. Bridges and slight inclines: no problem. Long steep climbs with a load: insufficient. The 75 Nm version performs better, but it's not a mountain bike. The Finez remains a city bike.
Specifications vs. sensations
The Shimano Nexus 8 hub is ideal for city riding: gear changes when stationary (useful at traffic lights), protected system, minimal maintenance thanks to the closed chain guard. Some testers report noise in high gears, which is true, but not a deal breaker.
Les modèles Exclusive reçoivent une courroie Gates : durée de vie triple (15 000 km vs 5 000 km), sans lubrification, plus propre. Pour plus de 5 000 km/an, c’est un choix évident. Pour un usage loisir (<3 000 km/an), c’est excessif. En reconditionné, le surcoût est souvent limité à 100–150 € au lieu de 300 €, ce qui rend l’option plus intéressante.
The weight of 30–32 kg provides stability but reduces agility. Fietstest.nl mentions that it is "less stable than the Gazelle Eclips 380." Technically accurate, but the difference only becomes apparent in a direct comparison. The Finez excels where it counts: comfort. The ANWB's rating for seating position is no coincidence.
Practical guide: how to choose the right Finez
1. The version
Check whether it is an Active Plus, Power, Exclusive, or Exclusive Plus.
- Limited budget: refurbished Active Plus refurbished ~€1,900).
- Modern technology: Power Smart BES3 (€2,300–€2,700).
2. BES2 vs. BES3
BES3 = application, GPS option, updates. Not crucial on a daily basis, but more scalable.
3. Battery capacity
- 400 Wh: sufficient for a 10–15 km commute, 50–60 km in winter
- 500 Wh: main recommendation (70–85 km actual range)
- 625 Wh: useful only for 40+ km/day
4. refurbished checkpoints
- État batterie : <300 cycles = excellent, >500 = vérifier capacité
- Kickstand: may interfere with pedals
- Engine noise: a slight humming sound is normal, but rattling is not.
- Vizi lighting: testing laser projection
My recommendation
The Batavus Finez is ideal for comfortable daily commutes of 15–25 km with frequent stops. Cobblestones, speed bumps, rough trails: the DuoShock fork and TU Delft geometry make all the difference.
Avoid if you must:
- regularly climb long steep hills with luggage,
- frequently carrying the bike (30+ kg),
- go on trips of more than 80 km.
Choose this option if:
- you mainly drive in the city,
- you suffer from back pain,
- Reliability takes precedence over sportiness.
My personal choice:
- Tight budget: Active Plus refurbished.
- Best compromise: refurbished Power Smart BES3 refurbished €2,300–€2,700).
- Exclusive Plus: superb, but only for those with the budget.
Can't decide between Finez and Gazelle Ultimate? Gazelle is more stable, Finez is more comfortable. Let your back decide.
FAQ
What is the difference between Active Plus and Power?
Active Plus: 400 Wh, basic comfort.
Power: 500 Wh, often Smart System (BES3).
Practical difference: 15–20 km of additional range and more modern electronics.
Is it suitable for hills?
Bridges and false flats: yes.
Long steep climbs: no.
Annual maintenance cost?
Approximately $100–$150 for 2,500–3,000 miles (chain, brake pads, tires, maintenance).
With Gates belt: $80–$120.
Why is the motor audible?
The Bosch Active Line Plus emits a slight humming noise, especially in Sport and Turbo modes. This is normal. Clattering or squeaking noises are not normal.
refurbished relevant?
Yes. Bosch motors often exceed 10,000 km, and the frame lasts 20+ years. For €1,800–2,700, you get a bike that originally sold for €2,549–4,299, with a 30–40% savings.