Gazelle vs. Tenways: choose security or simplicity?
There are two moments when people suddenly start to take an interest in technical specifications. First: when they see the price. Second: when something breaks down.
And on this spectrum, Gazelle and Tenways clearly stand out. Not because one is "good" and the other "bad," but because they are based on two different promises: security through an ecosystem (Gazelle) versus efficiency through simplicity (Tenways).
Written by: Jos Mans | January 23, 2025 | Reading time: 5minutes
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
- Gazelle is best suited for daily commutes and those who "don't want to complicate their lives": Bosch mid-drive motor + dealer and service network.
- Tenways is very attractive if you are looking for a lightweight, sleek urban e-bike that offers excellent value for money and requires little maintenance, but with a different service model.
- refurbished a game refurbished : same performance, lower price, and an extra layer of control. More of an improvement than a compromise.
Table of contents
The real difference: ecosystem vs. efficiency
Engine and feel: safety of the mid-engine vs. lightness and responsiveness
Speeds and transmission: where Tenways may raise questions
Service and warranty: the cost that no one displays on the product page
refurbished why it changes the comparison
Practical guide: choosing without going crazy
Quick comparison in a table
| Element | Gazelle (typical) | Tenways (typical) | Advantage for whom? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target audience | Home-work, comfort, stability | City, lightness, minimalism | Long-distance drivers vs. city drivers |
| Engine | Often central motor (Bosch) | Often rear wheel motor (torque sensor) | Power/traction vs. lightness/natural feel |
| Couple | Often 65–85 Nm | Approximately 40 Nm | Wind, bridges, load vs. flat city |
| Weight | Regularly heavier | Regularly lighter | Stairs / basement / train vs. street parking |
| Speeds | Often Enviolo / wide range | Sometimes single speed / minimalist | Freedom of pace vs. simplicity |
| Service | Dealer logic | Support and parts often online | "I want a nearby workshop" vs. "I'll manage it myself" |
| Price perception | You pay for the service structure | You pay for simplicity | Security vs. value |
The real difference: ecosystem vs. efficiency
Gazelle is a classic A brand. You're not just buying a bike, you're buying access to a system: dealers, clear warranty procedures, spare parts logic. In the event of a breakdown or maintenance, the path forward is often clear. This is particularly reassuring for bikes designed for commuting, comfort, and everyday use.
Tenways starts from a different idea: making the bike as simple and low-maintenance as possible, while offering it at a very competitive price. Less complexity, more design and simplicity are the priorities. This appeals especially to urban cyclists who want an electric bike that doesn't feel like riding a moped with pedals.
In summary: Gazelle "costs more" because you are paying for a structure. Tenways "costs less" because you are paying for choices (simpler concept, more direct service model). Once you see this, the question "where does this €1,200 go?" becomes pragmatic rather than emotional.
Engine and feel: safety of the mid-engine vs. lightness and responsiveness
Many Gazelle models use Bosch mid-drive motors, which are ideal for commuting, headwinds, bridges, panniers, or sometimes a child seat. These motors deliver torque ratings of 65 to 85 Nm. This type of motor is particularly comfortable on windy stretches or when carrying heavy loads.
Tenways often opts for rear-wheel motors with torque sensors on its urban models. On paper, we're talking around 40 Nm. That may seem less powerful, but the feel can be surprisingly natural: light, quiet, and direct. For flat urban journeys, it's very pleasant. And since the bike is often lighter, everything you do on a daily basis becomes easier: parking, carrying, and storing in tight spaces.
My opinion
- You ride every day and never want to worry about headwinds or heavy loads: Gazelle with a mid-drive motor is often the safest choice.
- If you want an electric city bike that looks like a classic bike with a little extra boost, Tenways is often more enjoyable.
Speeds and transmission: where Tenways may raise questions
Both brands can be very low-maintenance, but in different ways.
Gazelle often combines a Gates belt with a continuously variable Enviolo hub. It's a comfort that we really appreciate on a daily basis: no chain grease, smooth gear changes.
Tenways chooses a belt with a minimalist configuration (sometimes single speed) for several models. It's brilliantly simple, but also very honest: you have less leeway in your cadence.In the city, this can be perfect. If you combine city, long distances, and/or hills, it's less recommended. Beware of marketing hype: minimalism is often presented as superior in all circumstances, when in fact it is simply a trade-off. Fewer parts means less maintenance, but also less flexibility and sometimes fewer local service points.
Service and warranty: the cost that no one displays on the product page
You buy a bike once. You buy service every time you have a problem.
At Gazelle, warranty and service frameworks are generally extensive, but linked to approved procedures and networks. This is consistent with their ecosystem. It's also why many people who want "zero hassle" end up at Gazelle: you can walk into a workshop and there's a clear protocol in place.
At Tenways, the warranty may look good on paper, but the reality is often different: remote diagnosis, contacting support, sending parts, sometimes with instructions. A local bike shop can handle many mechanical issues, but when it comes to electronics, you quickly become dependent on the brand's process.
The key question, which is not very romantic but essential: would you rather pay more up front or organize more things later on? Once you have a clear answer to this question, much of the choice is also clear.
refurbished why it changes the comparison
refurbished does not mean "cleaned up second-hand." It involves an additional layer of selection and testing: questionable wear parts are replaced, the software is checked, and the bike undergoes around 20 checkpoints that, on a new bike, sometimes only become apparent after the first year. A new bike new factory testing. Then it's up to you to test it in real-world conditions.
This makes refurbished products refurbished for both brands:
- refurbished Gazelle refurbished you are purchasing the ecosystem and proven robustness.
- Tenways refurbished you get that famous value for money, with added security.
Practical guide: choosing without going crazy
Choose Gazelle instead if...
- your commute is serious (many miles, in all weather conditions, all year round)
- you often ride with a load (panniers, children, groceries)
- you want a service "around the corner" and few online diagnostics
- comfort and stability take precedence over weight
Choose Tenways instead if...
- you mainly ride in the city and often have to carry or move your bike
- you like sleek design and a light, quiet feel
- you want low maintenance
- value for money is crucial
My main advice: for everyday use (work, children, little room for error), choose Gazelle. For independent urban users looking for simplicity and maximum value, Tenways is an excellent choice. And to get off to a smart start: begin with refurbished models. If in doubt, let the selection tool guide you.
Conclusion
When comparing Gazelle and Tenways, there is no clear distinction between good and bad. Gazelle makes life easier thanks to its power and solid service structure. Tenways, on the other hand, appeals with its simplicity and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for independent urban users. The refurbished aspect further refurbished its appeal: greater value, a bike that has already been tested and fully inspected. The bike has a history and has already proven itself.
FAQ
Which is the best choice for commuting: Gazelle or Tenways?
For intensive home-to-work use (all year round, wind, load), Gazelle often wins out thanks to its central motor and more comfortable configuration. Tenways may be suitable for short, flat journeys, provided you accept its simplicity.
Is Tenways suitable for bridges, false flats, and headwinds?
Yes, but it all depends on your route and your expectations. With a light urban setup and lower torque, it's possible, but you have to work harder. On long sections exposed to the wind, having more power in reserve is simply more comfortable.
Why is Gazelle often more expensive?
You generally pay for a more robust package (often a mid-drive motor), more comfort features (e.g., Enviolo + belt drive), and a structured service ecosystem. It's not magic, it's organization.
Can I go to any bike shop with a Tenways?
For tires, brakes, belts, and adjustments: generally yes. For electronics (display, controller, motor), you will more often need to contact the brand's support team. This is not a problem, but it is a choice that must be made in advance.
Why choose a refurbished bike refurbished than new
Because you get the same basic performance for less, plus a layer of control and service.