Test drive of the Gazelle Grenoble C8: boring and flawless
There are two types of electric bikes. Those that demand attention, configuration via an app, a sporty position that becomes uncomfortable after 12 minutes, bikes that you only really appreciate after three upgrades. And then there's the Gazelle Grenoble C8. Boring. And incredibly efficient.
Written by: Jos Mans | January 22, 2025 | Reading time: 4 minutes
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 Grenoble C8 is first and foremost an electric bike designed for comfort: upright riding position, stability, and everyday use, with suspension and tires .
- The motor (Bosch Active Line Plus Smart, 50 Nm) is quiet and smooth, but not the most powerful in its class for steep slopes or heavy loads.
- When buying refurbished, pay particular attention to the year and version: the battery (400–600 Wh), screen (Intuvia/Purion), and sometimes even the advertised weight vary depending on the model year.
Who is this electric bike for? (and who is it not for)
The riding position is decidedly comfortable and upright, with fork and seat post suspension. This is precisely where this bike scores points for commuting with panniers, children, and daily shopping. The Grenoble C8 behaves like a quiet companion. Not light, but very stable.
This feeling of stability comes from the central motor and the battery, which is often well integrated. The center of gravity remains consistent, especially when carrying loads in the back.
It should also be noted that Gazelle generally offers extended warranty and service packages, but these are often subject to conditions and approved channels. This is part of their ecosystem. It's also why people who want a "no-hassle" experience often end up at Gazelle: you can walk into a store and there's a clear procedure in place.
I wouldn't recommend it if you're looking for a " small, lightweight city bike " that you can easily carry up three flights of stairs. Or if you regularly ride with a full load in the dunes or hills. In these cases, you'll really notice the difference compared to more powerful motors.
The technique behind this calm character
Gazelle equips the Grenoble C8 with Bosch Active Line Plus in the smart system. This provides 50 Nm of torque, up to 340% assistance and, above all, a smooth and quiet riding experience.
My opinion after thousands of kilometers on Bosch systems: the Active Line Plus is the motor you appreciate when you don't want to feel "performance" every time you ride. It starts smoothly. In the city, that's often exactly what you need. But 50 Nm is still 50 Nm. Bosch can say what it likes, but for steep hills or regular use with headwinds + child seat + panniers, this isn't the category that will take you everywhere effortlessly.
Transmission: the Grenoble C8 is often equipped with a Shimano Nexus 8-speed hub. This choice is perfectly in line with the character of this bike: reliable, low maintenance, ideal for everyday use.
However, it should be noted that the Nexus shifts gears more smoothly if you briefly release pressure on the pedals. Simple tips like this make the difference between "what a pleasant bike" and "why is it shifting so hard?"
Versions by year: a source of confusion
The Consumentenbond tested a Grenoble C8 HMB (2025) with a 500 Wh battery, an Intuvia 100 display, disc brakes, and suspension. The ANWB mentions, among other things, a 400 Wh battery, a weight of 23.2 kg, and a claimed range of 115 km for the Grenoble C8 HMB (2020). Gazelle itself cites different battery options and specifications such as the upright riding position and a weight measured without the battery.
The Grenoble C8 is a family, not a single model. With Gazelle electric bikes, and even more so with refurbished, it is important to check the exact configuration of each listing. This is the best way to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Practical buying tips
If you are considering a Grenoble C8 (especially a refurbished one), I always check these five points:
1. Battery capacity in Wh
Batteries range from 400 Wh to 500 Wh and sometimes more, depending on the year and version. For commuting between home and work (10–25 km per day), 400–500 Wh is usually sufficient. For longer journeys or windy conditions, 500 Wh or more is simply more comfortable.
2. Display: Intuvia 100 or Purion 200
In practice, for smooth riding, the difference is minimal. But it avoids misunderstandings about expectations. The Consumentenbond mentions the Intuia 100 in its tested configuration; Gazelle refers to the Purion 200 on the product page. Functionally, both are clear and practical, just check the ad.
3. Brakes: disc brakes (most common on recent models)
The Consumentenbond test concerns hydraulic disc brakes. On older or differently configured models, this may vary. Always check, as the braking experience can be very different.
4. Weight and usage
Gazelle advertises a weight without battery; the ANWB and other testers cite different values depending on the method and year. One thing is certain: this is not a bike that is "easy to lift." It is a comfortable electric bike that you park, lock up, and pick up again.
5. Realistic autonomy
Retailers often give a range such as 60–120 km for a 500 Wh battery. I find this more honest than a single maximum figure. Wind, temperature, tires pressure, tires your weight have more influence than you might think.
And finally, Upway point of view Upway without making it a dogma): refurbished bikes refurbished very well refurbished to this type of bike, because the Grenoble C8 is chosen by people who are looking for peace of mind. A "double layer of control + verified transmission + battery test" is therefore not a compromise, but simply a smarter purchase.
For those who want more power: check out the Gazelle Ultimate C380.
My verdict: if you're buying it for peace of mind, go for the Grenoble C8.
The Gazelle Grenoble C8 excels at what it promises: comfort, stability, and Bosch assistance that doesn't constantly "scream." However, there is one clear caveat: if you're looking for strong traction for hills or heavy loads, it's better to upgrade to a higher-end motor.
But for 90% of everyday use—commuting, city riding, errands, child seats—I think it's one of the most sensible Gazelles to buy refurbished. Above all, you gain peace of mind. And honestly, that's the most valuable thing about a bike.
FAQ
Is the Gazelle Grenoble C8 suitable for commuting?
Yes, especially if comfort and stability are your priorities. The combination of an upright riding position, suspension, and a quiet Bosch Active Line Plus motor makes it ideal for hassle-free commuting. Don't expect a sporty feel, but rather a reliable bike that gets you where you need to go.
What engine powers the Grenoble C8?
Many versions use the Bosch Active Line Plus in the smart system, with 50 Nm of torque. It's smooth and quiet, perfect for flat terrain and city riding. For steep hills or regular heavy loads, it's not the most powerful Bosch category.
Which battery (Wh) is best suited for me?
For urban and commuting trips of up to around 25 km per day, 400–500 Wh is generally sufficient. For more leeway (cold weather, wind, long trips), aim for 500 Wh or more. Please note: the Grenoble C8 is available in several models with different batteries.
What is the difference between the Intuvia 100 and the Purion 200 on this bike?
It depends on the version. The Consumentenbond describes a model tested in 2025 with Intuvia 100, while Gazelle mentions the Purion 200 on its product page. Functionally, both are clear and practical, so check the ad to be sure.
Is a refurbished Grenoble C8 a good choice?
If you are looking for the Grenoble C8 for its reliability and simplicity, then generally yes. It is a model that you buy to avoid problems, not to tinker with every week. The refurbished an extra level of control: wear parts and settings have already been checked.