Electric gravel bikes have become a popular option for Australian riders, as it is powerful and versatile enough to handle both commutes and light off-roading.
However, for the longest time, the gravel ebike market has been dominated by high-end brands and hefty price tags, which poses a hindrance to many riders. But what if you could enjoy the thrill of riding at a fraction of the cost?
Fortunately, Electric Kicks now carries the Fiido C21 and C22. These two models from global brand Fiido are here to prove that you don't have to choose between excellent performance and exceptional value.
But are these truly one of Australia's best-value electric gravel bikes today? Let’s find out.
What is an Electric Gravel Bike?
An electric gravel bike, also known as an e-gravel bike, is a type of e-bike designed to tackle a variety of terrains. They combine the best features of commuter e-bikes and mountain e-bikes, which are engineered for technical trails, to deliver comfortable and efficient rides on paved streets, dirt roads, and—as the name suggests—gravel trails.
With sturdy frames and deep-tread tyres, they are able to handle rougher surfaces. At the same time, they retain the sleek and lightweight frame often associated with commuter electric bikes.
A good gravel e-bike also features a specific gravel-ready geometry, characterised by a longer wheelbase, a lower handlebar height, and a sportier riding stance. All these features allow you to manoeuvre on various paths more easily.
Thus, an electric gravel bike is a practical solution for riders who need just one electric bike for multiple riding situations.
Fiido C21 and C22: Features and Specifications
Fiido has introduced the C21 (Step-Over) and C22 (Step-Through) as a cost-effective entry point into the world of electric gravel biking. Make no mistake, however—this does not mean these electric gravel bikes are entry-level. Instead, they boast impressive features and performance comparable to their more expensive counterparts.
In other words, the Fiido C21 and C22 offer a premium riding experience without the premium price.
Power and Speed
Both the Fiido C21 and C22 are equipped with a 250W motor, which allows the e-bikes to reach a top speed of 25 KPH – a suitable speed for both city commutes and off-road adventures. The motor also delivers 40 Nm of torque to help you tackle inclines and rougher paths.
Battery and Range
The Fiido electric gravel bikes come with a 208.8 Wh battery and offer an impressive range of up to 80 kilometres on a single charge. It’s a highly efficient battery as well, only taking 3 hours to fully charge so you can get back on the road quickly.
Gravel-Ready Ride Quality
Both models are built with gravel-ready features, including the aforementioned longer wheelbase, lower handlebar height, and an overall aggressive riding stance. This design ensures great handling and performance, especially on uneven terrain.
In addition, deep-tread gravel-styre tyres provide excellent traction on loose surfaces. Meanwhile, an aluminium alloy fork with an E-thru axle helps absorb bumps and vibrations, so you can stay comfortable while riding.
The C21 and C22 also feature high-performance hydraulic brakes that deliver reliable stopping power, even in challenging conditions.
Value for Money
The Fiido C21 and C22 offer exceptional value for money by combining performance and affordability. Weighing just 17-18 KG, these gravel e-bikes feature a premium lightweight aluminium frame that makes them easy to handle on both city streets and gravel paths.
The electric bikes are also powered by state-of-the-art technology. Equipped with the Mivice motor and a sophisticated torque sensing system, these electric gravel bikes measure your pedalling effort and deliver the exact amount of boost you need.
Furthermore, premium components, including a carbon fibre handlebar, TPR non-slip grips, and a VELO saddle, add to the e-bikes' value. Overall, you get an impressive ride at a budget-friendly price.
Price Comparison: Fiido vs. Competitors
As mentioned earlier, electric gravel bikes used to have a reputation for being expensive. So, how do the Fiido C21 and C22 fare against the competition?
For context, you can get these electric gravel bikes right now from Electric Kicks for only $2,399 (RRP). This price point shows remarkable value considering their advanced features and premium components.
Now, let’s examine some of their most well-known competitors and compare numbers.
Let’s begin with the Bianchi E-Impulso Gravel GRX 600. With a price tag of $5,949, it costs more than two Fiido gravel e-bikes combined. That said, the features are very similar, with both sporting the same 250W motor and delivering 40Nm of torque.
While the former does have a slightly bigger battery (250Wh vs. 208.8Wh), there is not a lot of difference that would somehow justify the vast discrepancy between the pricing.
Another popular gravel e-bike model in the country is the Orbea Gain D30 1X E-Gravel, which is even more expensive at $6,999—or almost three Fiidos. Although it features name-brand components, at the very core, it is still powered by a 250W motor and a 248Wh battery that produces more or less the same power and range as the Fiido C21/C22.
Finally, we have the Cannondale Topstone NEO SL 2 E-Gravel and the Merida eSilex 400. Priced at $4,999 and $4,699, respectively, these electric gravel bikes are slightly cheaper than the two models mentioned above but still significantly more expensive than the Fiido C21 and C22.
Again, the core features are very similar—250W motor power or 40Nm of torque, 250Wh battery, hydraulic disc brakes—showing that you can get comparable performance with Fiido's models at a much lower cost.
Overall, it is up to the riders to decide whether the small factors warrant the massive price difference. However, with the Fiido C21 and C22 offering similar performance and features at a fraction of the cost, it's clear they are, hands-down, some of the best value electric gravel bikes on the Australian market today.
Wrapping Up
With their impressive specs and features comparable to higher-priced competitors, the Fiido C21 and C22 show that you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy a top-notch electric gravel bike. These e-gravel bikes deliver the same power, performance, and premium components in a more cost-effective package.
If you're searching for a high-quality gravel e-bike without the steep price, the Fiido C21 and C22 are definitely worth a closer look.