Dutch E-Bike Maker Brings 28 MPH Comfort to US Streets

Getting somewhere faster usually means sacrificing comfort, but a 150-year-old Dutch bike company just proved that tradeoff isn't necessary.

Gazelle has released two new electric bikes in North America that can reach 28 mph while maintaining the stable, comfortable ride the company built its reputation on. The Ultimate C380+ 2.0 and Ultimate T11+ are now available at US dealers, starting at $4,499.

Most fast e-bikes chase speed through powerful motors and aggressive designs that feel twitchy at high speeds. Gazelle took the opposite approach, building these bikes around rider comfort first.

The company equipped both models with an 80mm suspension fork and wide 2.2-inch tires to absorb bumps and maintain grip at speed. The frames feature low center of gravity designs that keep riders feeling secure even when cruising near 30 mph.

Under the hood sits Bosch's new Performance Line Sport motor with 85 Nm of torque, upgradable to 90 Nm through a smartphone app. The German motor pairs with Bosch's Smart System, and riders can add a range extender battery for longer trips.

The $4,999 Ultimate C380+ 2.0 comes with a Gates belt drive and continuously variable transmission that requires almost zero maintenance. The $4,499 Ultimate T11+ uses a traditional derailleur system for riders who want sportier handling on hills.

Thoughtful details appear throughout both bikes. Cables run completely inside the frame for a clean look, and the charging port moved to the rear triangle for easier access. The handlebars include integrated mounts for smartphones to use as navigation displays.

Why This Inspires

For commuters riding 10 or 15 miles each way, the difference between 20 mph and 28 mph can mean arriving 15 minutes earlier without breaking a sweat. But that only works if the bike feels safe and comfortable enough to actually maintain those speeds.

Gazelle's approach shows that premium quality doesn't have to mean cutting-edge innovation or the lowest price. Sometimes the best solution comes from decades of expertise in building bikes people actually want to ride every day.

The company isn't trying to win spec-sheet battles with oversized batteries or flashy features. Instead, they're focusing on what actually matters: bikes that make people excited to skip the car and ride.

Both models are available now at Gazelle dealers across the United States, with more Ultimate platform bikes coming later this year.