In connection with our long-term test of electric bikes, we had the opportunity to test drive a prototype of the new Norwegian Buddy Bike sX1. The bike was not included in the spring laboratory test as it is in the premium class with a price tag significantly higher than the test participants.

Buddy Bike sX1 details

A closer look at the details gives an indication of the e-bike of the future. The unisex frame is made of carbon/composite material and injection molded without seams or welded edges and is very stable despite its low weight. The built-in “single-speed” gear and drive belt instead of a traditional chain should minimize the need for service and the number of components. Even the Sachs engine is encapsulated. A Kinekt saddle with adjustable damping and handlebars with Vecnum damping stand for comfort even off the asphalt.

How does the sX1 work in everyday life? The test version was not fully equipped and lacked mud shields, luggage racks and lights. This is probably a contributing factor that nothing rattles or sounds apart from the turbine-like hiss of the engine. Another is the drive belt and the incredibly rigid frame. The bike can be ridden comfortably on all surfaces, but feels most at home in urban and light off-road environments, where we cycled a total of about 600 km.

Acceleration is an experience and despite the high support factor it is easy to pedal on when the engine shuts off at 25km/h. However, the disadvantage of single-speed also shows itself here; The Buddy Bike invites you to cycle very fast, but the resistance of a higher gear is missing at higher speeds, so you don’t have the energy to pedal as fast as you should. The other extreme, i.e. starting on a steep uphill is no game either without the possibility of downshifting.

Overall, the Buddy Bike sX1 is an exciting addition to the premium class of e-bikes with a high quality feel, smart details and a powerful engine. It is good that the manufacturer plans to develop the engine control program to achieve a different ratio.

+ Torsionally rigid, stable and extremely strong.

– Single-speed not for everyone, the price.

Buddy Bike sX1 parked on the street.