Kalkhoff Entice 5 review: a lot of e-bike for your money
The Kalkhoff Entice 5 is a mid-range all-road e-bike designed for everyday use on both asphalt and unpaved trails. It is available in several versions, from the entry-level Move+ to the well-equipped Advance+, and the low-maintenance Excite+ with belt drive.
Kalkhoff is part of the Pon Group, which means that the brand is backed by solid industrial capacity. This is clearly reflected in the choice of components. But what kind of e-bike is it really?
Written by: Jos Mans | February 17, 2026 | 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
- Powerful Bosch Performance Line CX motor (Smart System) with 85 Nm torque, assistance up to 25 km/h, four modes
- Generous 625 Wh battery, integrated into the frame, advertised range of up to 150 km in practice, but expect more like 80 to 100 km in mixed use.
- In my opinion, the Advance+ version is the best choice: Shimano Deore XT drivetrain, Bosch Kiox 300 display, SR Suntour air suspension fork with 120 mm travel.
What kind of bike is it?
The Bosch Performance Line CX is the motor usually found on e-bikes costing easily a thousand euros more. Kalkhoff remains reasonable here in terms of budget. The motor offers four levels of assistance (Eco, Tour, Sport, Turbo) and communicates via the Smart System with the Kiox 300 display.
This display connects via Bluetooth to the Bosch Flow app, allowing you to import routes and update your bike. No unnecessary gadgets, just clean and efficient integration.
The Advance+ version is equipped with an 11-speed Shimano Deore XT derailleur. This is a groupset normally found on MTB : reliable, precise, and more tolerant of rough maintenance than most alternatives.
The hydraulic disc brakes have four pistons, a significant advantage over the entry-level two-piston versions. The MIK HD luggage rack can carry up to 27 kg; the total permissible load of the bike is 170 kg.
The choice of Deore XT at this price point is particularly relevant. Most competitors in this segment use Deore or SLX. The fact that Kalkhoff has opted for a higher-end range is a concrete advantage that will pay off in the long term.
Weaknesses
Weight is a real factor. The Entice 5 Advance+ weighs around 27 kg. This is normal for an e-bike of this size and with this equipment, but it's not a bike that's easy to carry upstairs. If you have a narrow hallway or basement, this is something to bear in mind.
The advertised range of 150 km is measured under ideal conditions: light wind, flat terrain, light rider, Eco mode. In real-world use on Dutch roads (with headwinds and luggage), 80 to 100 km is a more realistic estimate.
This is still more than enough for most users, but the difference is worth noting. A fair estimate would be between 80 and 120 km depending on usage—which is still impressive.
Which version is right for you?
Move+
The Move+ is the entry-level version. It has the same motor and battery as the higher-end versions, but with a simpler Shimano Deore groupset, a more basic display, and a non-air fork. For strictly urban use on good asphalt, it's sufficient.
Advance+
This is the model I would choose. The extra cost compared to the Move+ is justified by the superior drivetrain and fork, especially if you also ride on trails or carry heavy loads.
The Advance+ ABS version adds an integrated braking system that prevents the wheels from locking at high speeds or on wet surfaces. Useful, but not essential for typical commuting on asphalt.
Excite+
The Excite+ replaces the chain with a Gates Carbon Drive belt. It is virtually maintenance-free, quieter, and more durable in the long term. The price is higher. For intensive daily use without the hassle of lubricating a chain, the investment is worth considering.
Kalkhoff Entice 5 refurbished
A refurbished Entice 5 refurbished a logical choice. The components of this model, Bosch motor, Shimano Deore XT, hydraulic disc brakes, are designed to cover tens of thousands of kilometers.
A properly refurbished model with a tested battery offers virtually the same longevity at a lower cost. refurbished models refurbished more relevant for this type of high-end e-bike than for entry-level models, as the components hold up well new.
FAQ
Is the Kalkhoff Entice 5 a speed pedelec
No. The Entice 5 is a classic pedelec with assistance up to 25 km/h. No license plate, no specific helmet requirement, normal use on bike paths.
What is the battery life?
Bosch batteries are designed to retain at least 60% of their capacity after 500 full charge cycles. With daily use and smart partial charging (avoiding complete discharge and always charging to 100%), a service life of five to seven years is realistic.
What is the difference between the Entice 5 Advance+ and the Excite+?
The Excite+ is equipped with a Gates Carbon Drive belt drive instead of a chain. This means less maintenance and less wear and tear in the long term, but a higher purchase price. The rest of the drivetrain is comparable.
Is the Kalkhoff Entice 5 suitable for heavier cyclists?
Yes. The maximum weight capacity of 170 kg (including rider, clothing, and luggage) makes the Advance+ suitable for larger riders. The reinforced spokes and four-piston disc brakes were chosen specifically for this reason.