Testing the Granville E-Elegance electric bike
If you type " Granville E-Elegance" into Google, you will quickly come across models and technical specifications that sometimes differ significantly. This is not usually an error on the part of the websites, but rather the result of the fact that there are several versions and several model years under the same name. And this is precisely where disappointment arises: you think you are buying an E-Elegance with a belt drive and "quiet" hub, and you end up with a derailleur version. Or vice versa: you expect a 750 Wh battery and discover a 625 Wh version.
In this test, I deliberately take a practical approach. I review the four most common versions of the E-Elegance—RD, NEX, NEX Belt, and Enviolo Belt—and explain how they differ in real-world use. Equally important: the motor/battery checkpoints for each version and how to choose without regret.
Written by: Jos Mans | January 26, 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
- The choice depends primarily on the drivetrain: RD (derailleur), NEX (hub), NEX Belt (hub + belt), or Enviolo Belt (continuous variation + belt).
- The battery and motor may vary depending on the version and year of production (notably, there are 625 and 750 Wh models, as well as different Bosch lines and different displays). Therefore, always check the specific listing, not just the model name.
- This type of bike is often sturdy and rather heavy. This is an advantage on the road (stability), but less convenient if you often have to carry it or maneuver it in a narrow space.
Granville: brief history and positioning
Granville is not a recent "hype brand" in the Benelux. The Belgian brand was founded in 1928 as a frame manufacturer, then evolved into producing complete bicycles. Today, this provides some context: Granville designs bikes for everyday use, which are generally very well equipped. This places the brand closer to Gazelle and Kalkhoff (comfort, full equipment, commuting) than Tenways (urban minimalism) or Cube (sporting roots, more direct steering).
This is not a value judgment, but a conscious choice. You buy an E-Elegance for stability and comfort, with a logical configuration: mudguards, luggage rack, lights, and anti-theft device. The trade-off is often a bike that is not the lightest in the garage. You have to be honest about that.
The four versions of the E-Elegance explained
1. E-Elegance RD (rear derailleur)
What it is: Chain and derailleur gears (recent specifications include, for example, Shimano CUES 10-speed).
What you feel: A wider range of gears and often a more direct feel, especially if you vary your pace or regularly ride outside the city.
What may disappoint: More conventional maintenance: chain cleaning, wear and tear, occasional adjustments. This is not a problem in itself, but it is part of the system.
2. E-Elegance NEX (hub)
What it is: Shimano Nexus hub (often 7 or 8 speeds).
What you feel: Calm, predictable, and forgiving handling. This is the version for those who want to drive, not tinker.
Compromise: A less sporty gear ratio range. And gear changes are smoother if you ease off the pressure on the pedals slightly, which avoids that slightly "wooden" feeling that some people sometimes complain about.
3. E-Elegance NEX Belt (hub + belt)
What it is: Nexus hub combined with a Gates belt.
What you feel: The same comfort as the NEX version, but cleaner and generally quieter. No chain grease, less cleaning, which is particularly appreciated in wet weather.
Disadvantage: The belt is a more specific system. In practice, it remains very reliable, but you are a little more dependent on good components and precise adjustment.
4. E-Elegance Enviolo Belt (continuous variation + belt)
What it is: Enviolo continuously variable transmission with Gates belt.
How it feels: You can adjust the resistance and cadence exactly as you wish, without any gear changes. When cycling in the city with lots of stops and starts, many cyclists find this very relaxing.
Compromise: The feel is different from a "traditional" bike. If you enjoy the click-click of shifting gears, it may take some time to adjust. It's a matter of personal preference, not an objective improvement for everyone.
Engine and battery: what to check in every ad
The E-Elegance comes with different combinations depending on the year and version. In practice, it usually has a Bosch mid-drive motor, generally from the Performance Line range, but there are other options. The same applies to the display: Intuvia units are common, but you should check the exact specifications.
Battery (Wh): Most batteries are either 625 or 750 Wh.
My rule of thumb:
- Up to about 25 km per day, with the option of recharging at home or at work: 625 Wh is more than enough.
- For journeys of 35 to 60 km per day, all year round, in windy and cold conditions and with a load (panniers, child): the 750 Wh version is more reassuring.
More than just "the biggest number," the key thing is that the battery suits your needs, especially in winter. Cold weather and wind are battery life killers, so it's best to plan ahead.
Driving experience and daily maintenance
Compared to other brands, the E-Elegance generally gives an impression of comfort and stability. It is not the lightest or most playful bike (like Tenways), nor does it offer a very tense, sporty feel like some Cube trekking bikes. Instead, it is calm, solid, and predictable. For commuting, this is often an advantage.
The real choice is based on the level of maintenance "friction":
- RD: wide range of ratios, but no more conventional wear points.
- NEX: minimal constraints on use.
- NEX Belt: the simplicity of NEX, with even less maintenance thanks to the belt.
- Enviolo Belt: maximum peace of mind in the city and in stop-and-go traffic, if you like trapless shifting.
Help with practical choices (especially refurbished items)
Before even looking at the color or style, I always check:
- The exact version: RD / NEX / NEX Belt / Enviolo Belt.
- Battery capacity in Wh: 625 or 750 (or other, but this must be clearly indicated).
- The motor line and display: take note of these to avoid disappointment.
- Weight and storage: carrying, stairs, narrow rooms? Things to consider.
- The points of contact: saddle and handles. This may seem secondary, but after 40 minutes, it is often decisive.
Specific inspection for refurbished with an "Upway" perspective):
- Battery test and actual capacity (ideally quantified)
- condition of brakes and tires
- condition of the transmission (belt/chain/hub)
- Bosch software diagnostics and control
My recommendation
If I had to choose just one version for the majority of everyday cyclists, it would be the E-Elegance NEX Belt. You get the simplicity of a hub, while eliminating much of the maintenance hassle thanks to the belt. In the Netherlands, Belgium, and northern France, where you often ride in the rain, dirt, or on salted roads, this is a very real advantage.
- You want maximum smoothness and love trapless: Enviolo Belt.
- Looking for a wider gear range and a classic feel: RD.
- You want the simplest and most robust solution possible: NEX.
What about refurbished With this type of bike, it's often a very rational choice. The issues that can become annoying later on, such as wear and tear, adjustments, and battery condition, have already been checked. And that's exactly what you expect from a bike purchased for its reliability.
FAQ
Which version requires the least maintenance?
NEX Belt and Enviolo Belt. Thanks to the belt, there is no chain grease and less cleaning and adjustment required. NEX Belt is the simplest, Enviolo Belt offers the most comfort.
Is the RD (derailleur) version a bad choice?
No. It's good if you want a wide range of gears and go on longer rides. You just have to accept more traditional maintenance (chain, cassette, adjustments).
Which battery should you choose: 625 or 750 Wh?
For short trips with the possibility of recharging, 625 Wh is more than enough. For longer distances all year round, with wind and load, 750 Wh provides extra margin and less stress.
Does the Enviolo feel heavy or sluggish?
The main difference is continuous variation instead of stepped speeds. Many comfort-oriented cyclists appreciate being able to always choose their cadence. Those who like very direct gear changes often prefer RD.
refurbished relevant for this type of bike?
Often, yes. Precisely because you buy this bike for its reliability. refurbished that the wear parts have been treated and that the bike has been technically checked before you put your trust in it.