Kalkhoff Sahel Compact i8 Review

Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8 Electric Bike Review 1
Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8
Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8 Mid Motor Battery
Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8 Led Control Console
Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8 Grip Shifter
Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8 Dynamo Hub
Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8 Rim Brake
Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8 Electric Bike Review 1
Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8
Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8 Mid Motor Battery
Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8 Led Control Console
Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8 Grip Shifter
Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8 Dynamo Hub
Kalkhoff Sahel Compact I8 Rim Brake

Summary

  • While not officially a folding bike, the stem does pivot and pedals do fold to create a slim profile
  • Rigid frame paired with oversized Schwalbe Big Ben ballon tires creates a solid but comfortable ride
  • Smaller 20" wheels paired with internally geared hub and mid-drive motor creates mechanical advantage for climbing
  • Three levels of torque sensing pedal assist, no throttle mode, so you have to pedal along

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

Kalkhoff

Model:

Sahel Compact i8

Price:

$3,699 USD

Body Position:

Forward

Suggested Use:

Neighborhood, Commuting, Urban

Electric Bike Class:

Pedal Assist (Class 1)
Learn more about Ebike classes

Warranty:

3 Year Frame, 2 Year Motor and Battery

Availability:

United States, Europe

Model Year:

2014

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

37 lbs (16.78 kg)

Frame Sizes:

18.11 in (45.99 cm)

Frame Types:

Step-Thru, Compact

Attachment Points:

Rear Rack Bosses, Fender Bosses

Gearing Details:

8 Speed 1x8 Shimano Nexus Internally Geared Hub

Shifter Details:

Twist Grip on Right Bar

Stem:

Speed Lifter Classic

Handlebar:

Concept EX Trekking

Brake Details:

Magura HS11 Pure QR Hydraulic Rim

Grips:

Ergonomic

Saddle:

Selle Royal Ariel 2-Cut, Gel

Rims:

Rodi Web Compact Double Walled

Tire Brand:

Schwalbe Big Ben 55-406, 20" x 2.15"

Wheel Sizes:

20 in (50.8cm)

Tire Details:

Reflective Safety Stripe

Accessories:

Shimano Dynamo Hub in Front Wheel Powering Busch and Muller Lyt LED Lights, Front and Rear Fenders, Kalkhoff Bolt on Aluminum Carry Rack, Chain Guard, Kickstand, Optional Coaster Brake, Bell

Electronic Details

Motor Brand:

Impulse 2.0

Motor Type:

Mid-Mounted Geared Motor
Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

250 watts

Motor Torque:

40 Newton meters

Battery Brand:

Impulse

Battery Voltage:

36 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

11 ah

Battery Watt Hours:

396 wh

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-ion

Charge Time:

4 hours

Estimated Min Range:

45 miles (72 km)

Estimated Max Range:

70 miles (113 km)

Display Type:

LED Console

Readouts:

3 Levels of Assist and Walk Mode, Battery Level

Drive Mode:

Torque Sensing Pedal Assist

Top Speed:

20 mph (32 kph)(15 mph in Europe)


Written Review

The Kalkhoff Sahel Compact i8 electric bike isn’t exactly a folding bike but it does offer a smaller footprint and lighter overall weight. The pedals fold up and the stem pivots to twist the handle bars in line with the frame, allowing it to squeeze into cars, RV’s, busses or trains more easily. This is a very capable ebike, running on the same drive system as the full sized Kalkhoff Sahel i8 only with a slightly smaller 11 amp hour battery instead of the 15. With its smaller 20″ wheels, the Compact is an excellent climber and one of the easiest electric bikes to mount due to its step-through frame. It could be one of the best options for a smaller person or someone with shorter legs that’s struggling with full sized bicycle designs. In terms of quality, Kalkhoff is part of Derby Cycle Werke out of Germany, a trusted name in the space that make quality systems… and that is reflected in the higher price tag of this ebike.

The motor on the Sahel Compact i8 is a 250 watt geared mid-drive design. While 250 watts may not sound like much, especially compared with many US made 350 or 500 watt motors, the middrive system leverages the internally geared hub for efficiency. It’s a great climber for this reason and also very capable in terms of range and ride time. The motor itself is quiet, responsive and mounted extremely low on the frame. This keeps the center of balance low, stabilizes the ride and makes the bike easier to lift when climbing stairs or loading into a car. While the bike may not have a throttle mode or reach the higher speeds of many US made bikes, some that now reach 28 miles per hour in speed pedelec mode, it’s a master of utility.

The battery pack in this system offers 36 volts of power and 11 amp hours of capacity which is pretty standard for a full sized ebike but impressive for a smaller one like the Compact. The advantages here are battery position (low and central just like the motor), removability for convenience in charging and power to weight ratio. This bike is much lighter than a full sized ebike but still rigid and stable at higher speeds as mentioned before. Battery position is a big part of that balance and the fact that the battery locks to the frame but is also removable means it can get even lighter for transport if you keep the battery off. In terms of design, I like the unique concave design that mirrors the rear wheel. It feels like Kalkhoff considered every efficiency and artistic angle when engineering this bike vs. slapping generic parts together.

All things considered, this is one of the most impressive miniature electric bikes I’ve ridden. Others such as the Pedego 24″ Cruiser are designed with smaller riders in mind first and foremost while the Sahel Compact is more about commuter efficiency and space savings. You’ll always have to pedal to activate the motor here as there’s no throttle mode and the LED computer is very basic (no speed, range or precise battery displays to reference) but it’s durable and very functional. It’s actually very easy to understand and use and it also felt durable, like it would resist water and dust well over time. The fenders, chain guard, bell, ergonomic grips, adjustable kickstand and dynamo powered lights (that don’t need the battery to stay light) are wonderful. It’s easy to take these things for granted or assume you can add them on to any bike you get but the way these are integrated is beautiful.

There are drawbacks with this design including the lack of suspension (no seat post shock or suspension fork) but the larger ballon tires do smooth things out a bit. In truth, most folding or mini electric bikes are lacking in the comfort department, it’s part of what makes them small and light. Of all the folders I’ve ridden, this is definitely one of the more comfortable designs. You could ride it further without experiencing the same fatigue or even insecurity of balance that others are know for. It’s not the most affordable model out there but you get a quality build for your money.

Pros:

  • Solid frame, doesn’t feel wobbly or soft when riding, could support larger riders
  • Impressive drive system for a miniature electric bike, excellent range due to larger capacity battery pack
  • Great hill climber due to mechanical advantage of smaller 20″ wheels, geared mid drive motor and pedal assist
  • Ergonomic grips, front and rear fenders, chain guard and dynamo powered lights are very functional
  • Larger Schwalbe Big Ben tires absorb some of the bumps, the seat is a bit more rigid and the lack of suspension is noticeable compared with full sized Kalkhoff ebikes
  • Front and rear lights are powered by Shimano dynamo so they will continue to work even if your main battery runs out
  • Middrive motor and battery pack mounted behind seat tube keeps weight low and centered on the bike
  • Manufactured by Kalkhoff which is part of Derby Cycle Werke, one of the largest German ebike makers with a solid reputation
  • Mid-drive motor is very quiet and works seamlessly with internally geared hub, gears can be shifted even when the bike is standing still
  • Key unlocks the battery pack and is not required to be left in when riding, the battery can be charged on or off the bike

Cons:

  • Doesn’t get quite as small as true folding electric bikes (the frame doesn’t fold) but it does feel more solid when riding
  • No fancy LCD monitor to show you speed, distance or precise battery capacity remaining
  • Only available in one size, 46cm, and in the step-through design but it does come in multiple colors including black and blue
  • Offers torque sensing pedal assist mode only, no twist or trigger throttle
  • Very expensive compared with other small wheeled electric bikes but the components and drive system is comparable to the full sized Kalkhoff Sahel i8
  • Bolt-on style rack is a bit small and requires proper assembly and maintenance to avoid rattling loose over time vs. welded but the Kalkhoff hardware seems very high quality
  • Very limited availability in the USA, harder to test ride and service as a result

Resources:

More Kalkhoff Reviews

Kalkhoff Agattu B7 Review

  • MSRP: $2,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

Very affordable Bosch powered electric city bike, comes with all of the accessories you need for commuting in rain or shine along with several comfort upgrades. Integrated LED lights, with an aimable headlight, keep you visible and help you navigate in…...

Kalkhoff Include 8 Premium Review

  • MSRP: $4,399
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016, 2017

One of the most popular bikes in the Kalkhoff line, it comes in four frame sizes, three frame types (including wave step-thru) and two colors, impressive two-year complete warranty. Excellent hardware including Shimano hydraulic brakes, and internally geared 8 speed hub (that can be…...

Kalkhoff Integrale S11 Review

  • MSRP: $5,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2016, 2017

A premium speed pedelec designed for hassle free, reliable and quiet commuting with a two year warranty, available in four frame sizes for improved fit, adjustable stem. The Gates carbon belt drive is near-silent and stays centered with CDX tracking technology, an…...

Kalkhoff Tasman Classic Impulse 8 Review

  • MSRP: $3,799
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

One of the most capable step-thru cruisers around, excellent range, stiff frame, good weight distribution and safety features. Aluminum alloy fenders and rear carry rack are painted to match the frame (and they…...

Kalkhoff Agattu Impulse 8 HS Review

  • MSRP: $3,599
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A long-range capable comfort electric bike available in wave (step-thru) or diamant (high-step) style and four frame sizes. Efficient mid-drive Impulse 2.0 motor system, center-mounted Lithium-ion battery pack, dynamo powered lights, full length…...

Kalkhoff Sahel Impulse 8 Review

  • MSRP: $3,799
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

An extremely capable, thoughtfully engineered and moderately comfortable commuting or touring style electric bike. This ebike seems to have everything from dynamo powered LED lights with safety "standing mode"…...

Kalkhoff Sahel Compact Impulse 8 Review

  • MSRP: $3,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2015

A premium compact electric bike with excellent weight distribution and a powerful responsive motor. Up to 85 miles per charge, utilitarian fenders, chain guard, carry rack and dynamo powered…...

Kalkhoff Agattu Premium Impulse 8 Review

  • MSRP: $3,750
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Truly premium electric bike with top of the line accessories and a sophisticated mid-drive motor system. Dynamo powered LED lights, ergonomic grips, quality fenders with mud flap on the rear, rack…...

Kalkhoff Pro Connect S10 Review

  • MSRP: $4,199
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

City style electric bike with high torque and high speed mid-drive motor by Panasonic. Magura MT4 hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear fenders, rack with built in mini-pump, integrated…...

Kalkhoff Pro Connect S27 Review

  • MSRP: $4,199
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Urban commuter bike with efficient Panasonic mid-drive motor capable of higher top speeds (25+ miles per hour). High end features including Magura MT4 hydraulic disc brakes, SKS fenders, rack with mini-pump, integrated…...

Kalkhoff Pro Connect X27 Review

  • MSRP: $3,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Setup for urban riding or distance touring with a more active, forward leaning geometry. High end feature set including Shimano XT drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, Continental Eco Contact tires,…...

Kalkhoff Sahel i8 Review

  • MSRP: $3,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Great hill climber due to geared mid-drive motor and internally geared eight speed rear hub. Quality build with full range of accessories including fenders, dynamo powered lights and rear rack...

Kalkhoff Pro Connect C8 Review

  • MSRP: $2,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Light weight, efficient city style electric bike with mid drive and internally geared 8 speed hub. Ready to ride with fenders, lights, chain guard, bell and a simple LED console interface...

Kalkhoff Tasman Tour C8 Premium Review

  • MSRP: $3,399
  • MODEL YEAR: 2014

Amazing hill climber, Impulse mid drive motor leverages eight speed internally geared hub. Premium commuting extras including fenders, enclosed chain guard and dynamo powered LED lights...


Comments (2) YouTube Comments

1 year ago

Mijn Elektrische Kalkhoff Vouwfiets bevalt mij heel goed! Ik heb er al fijne tochtjes mee gemaakt, en het rijd geweldig. Ik hou van mijn fietsje, en ben er erg blij mee. Dat wij nog heel lang samen mogen zijn. Een fijne, handige fiets, die bij mij past.

  Reply
Court
1 year ago

Dat is geweldig! Ik ben zo blij om te horen dat je geniet van de fiets. Ik denk dat het lang meegaat en goed presteert. Kalkhoff heeft een grote reputatie en lijkt zich te concentreren op kwaliteit voor hun elektrische fietsen! Ze maken immers deel uit van het bedrijf Koninklijke Nederlandse Gazelle!

  Reply

Post a Comment

Your email address will not be published.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.