High-end bikes with low step-through frames

Low step-through electric bikes are no longer just for seniors; they have become a popular choice for anyone who values comfort, safety, and practicality in urban traffic. This type of frame, often referred to as a "swan neck" or "open frame," is becoming the standard for modern e-bikes.

The main advantage is accessibility. Without a high top tube like on a traditional diamond frame, you can get on and off the bike without having to lift your leg excessively. For urban use—with lots of stops at traffic lights—the low step-through frame is ideal. In the event of an unexpected obstacle, you can stop safely and put both feet on the ground more quickly. Another important point: a loaded bike (heavy panniers or rear child seat) remains more stable when stopping and starting when it has a low frame.

Many low-step bikes place the battery on the luggage rack, making it easy to remove. However, models with a battery integrated into the down tube offer a lower center of gravity, ensuring an even more stable and natural ride.

This Kalkhoff bike combines a very sturdy frame with a low step-through design, which, in my opinion, provides maximum stability, even on unpaved roads. The belt drive also makes it very low-maintenance. This award-winning high-end model has a new price new €5,400, depending on the battery capacity and frame version.

The Gazelle Eclipse offers a surprisingly dynamic riding position despite its low step-through frame. Thanks to the continuously variable hub, gear changes are always smooth, which I find ideal in the city when you're stopping and starting frequently. When it was launched, this powerful e-bike cost nearly €6,000, although there are now more attractive offers available.

In my opinion, this model stands out thanks to its sturdy frame and modern design. The low step-through frame is subtly integrated without compromising Koga's characteristic rigidity, resulting in very precise and safe steering. The version equipped with an 800 Wh battery costs around €6,000.

The Nevo4 is one of the most iconic low step-through models. It offers an extremely low and wide opening, making it particularly accessible. Thanks to the integrated battery and powerful Bosch mid-drive motor, the weight distribution seemed optimal to me, which enhances the overall balance. Prices for this flagship model start at around $5,000 and can exceed $7,200 depending on the configuration.

This Batavus is often praised in consumer tests—and by me as well—for its comfortable V-shaped frame. This design not only makes it easier to get on and off the bike, but also ensures excellent stability, which is essential for cyclists who feel less comfortable when getting on or off their bike. Its more affordable price point ranges from €3,500 to €3,900.

The Trek District+ 4 is a sturdy and versatile e-bike that appeals to me because of its ease of use. The low step-through frame is wide enough to slip your foot through effortlessly, while the suspension fork and cushioned seat post ensure a comfortable ride on different types of terrain. This excellent all-rounder will set you back between €3,700 and €4,200.

In its "Step-Through" version, this e-bike has a low step-through frame. The motor assistance on this Specialized felt very natural to me, helping me to start off in a controlled manner at traffic lights. This technological marvel is positioned in the high-end segment, with a price tag of around €5,000.

This model offers excellent value for money with a frame specially designed to reduce vibrations. I personally found that this made getting on and off the bike physically less demanding. The Pegasus Premio EVO 10 Lite has a recommended retail price of around €3,900.

This e-bike from Giant is designed primarily for long rides. The low step-through frame makes it easy to get on even when the bike is heavily loaded (e.g., with full panniers), without risking losing your balance. You can feel this immediately when riding. For a new E+ 3 model, expect to pay between €3,300 and €3,700.

The Mavaro 4's strong point is its excellent front fork suspension. The low step-through frame is combined with a very rigid frame, preventing any wobbling at high speeds—a flaw I often encounter on more economical step-through models. New prices for this bike start at around €3,500.

The main advantage is accessibility: you can get on easily without having to lift your leg very high. This improves safety in the event of unexpected obstacles and ensures greater stability when the bike is loaded with panniers or a child seat.

Modern models feature very rigid frames that do not become unstable at high speeds. Versions with a battery integrated into the down tube also offer a lower center of gravity, for a more natural riding experience.

Prices vary greatly. The most affordable models start at around €3,500, while high-end versions can exceed €7,200.