Gazelle continues to produce its bicycles in Dieren, Netherlands, in the province of Gelderland. This is where the company's headquarters and factory are located at the brand's historic site. According to the manufacturer, around 300,000 bicycles leave the production line annually. This makes Dieren not just an administrative or development site, but an active manufacturing facility. 

Today's innovation and production center combines older building sections with a modern manufacturing plant. The entire complex covers approximately 27,500 square meters. At its center lies a montage hall spanning more than 7,000 square meters with long production lines. An automated painting facility applies multiple layers of paint to frames, forks, and other components. Final assembly also takes place in Dieren.

The production of a Gazelle e-bike consists of both industrial and manual work steps. Machines handle processes that require consistent results and repeatable precision, especially the painting process. Employees then assemble and inspect the individual components. Frames, wheels, brakes, gears, motor, battery, and lighting must function together as a complete system.

“Made in the Netherlands” does not, however, mean that every single component originates from the Netherlands. Motors and batteries, for example, come from Bosch or Shimano. Gears, brakes, tires, and other components also come from specialized suppliers. Gazelle develops the bicycles, coordinates the components, paints the frames, and assembles the bikes in Dieren. This division of labor is standard among European bicycle manufacturers.

For buyers, the production location offers a practical benefit. Gazelle works with a network of specialist retailers through which maintenance, warranty claims, and spare parts can be handled. Before purchasing, it is still worth asking whether a local dealer services the desired drive system and offers test rides with several frame sizes.

The values may vary between model years and software versions. A current Gazelle Ultimate, for example, is available with the Bosch Performance Line or Performance Line PX. Depending on the version, the Eclipse uses a Bosch Performance Line CX. The Easyflow is equipped with a Shimano EP5 with 50 Nm. Therefore, the motor designation should always be considered in conjunction with the specific model and year of manufacture.

If you primarily ride on flat cycle paths and in the city, the Bosch Active Line or Active Line Plus is usually sufficient. For regular tours with inclines, the Performance Line is more suitable. A CX or PX drive is well-suited for high total weight, steep climbs, and long distances with luggage. Anyone who prefers smooth starting and simple operation should also test a Gazelle pedelec with a Shimano system.

A test ride is more important than the highest torque value when choosing a motor. Pay attention to how smoothly the motor engages, how loud it gets under load, and whether you can safely operate the assistance levels while riding. A motor that matches your pedaling style will feel more comfortable in the long run than a more powerful system with an overly aggressive tune.

Manufacturer claims regarding maximum range are based on favorable conditions. According to product specifications, some Gazelle models reach values of well over 150 kilometers in Eco mode. This is not a guaranteed real-world value. In Tour, Auto, or Turbo mode, the range is often significantly lower. For the Arroyo C8, for example, Gazelle specifies up to 150 kilometers in Eco mode and up to 60 kilometers in Turbo mode for the 500 Wh battery.

How far you can actually travel depends on several factors:

• A high level of assistance consumes more energy.
• Inclines increase the motor's power consumption.
• Rider weight, luggage, and child seats place additional strain on the drive system.
• Headwinds and frequent starting decrease the range.
• Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance.
• Cold temperatures temporarily reduce the usable battery capacity.
• A low cadence in a high gear puts more strain on the motor.

On many Gazelle e-bikes, the battery can be removed for charging. Luggage rack batteries are often pulled out of their mount from the side or the back. Integrated frame batteries can also be removed after unlocking, with the handling depending on the specific frame. The battery is secured to the bike with a lock. Some bikes can also be charged directly on the frame via a charging socket. When purchasing, you should check whether you can insert and remove the battery without awkward lifting. 

Gazelle combines its drive systems with batteries of varying capacities. On the market and across different model generations, you will find batteries with 360, 400, 500, 600, 750, and 800 Wh, among others. Current model versions also use capacities such as 540, 625, or 630 Wh. The number indicates how much energy the battery can store. An 800 Wh battery has more reserves than a 400 Wh battery, but is usually heavier and more expensive.

• 360 to 400 Wh are suitable for short trips, city riding, and regular charging.
• 500 to 540 Wh cover many commutes and medium-length leisure rides.
• 600 to 630 Wh provide additional reserves for longer routes and hilly terrain.
• 750 to 800 Wh are ideal for extended tours, heavy loads, and powerful motors.

For a commute of twice ten kilometers, a 400 or 500 Wh battery is usually sufficient, provided you can charge it regularly. For day trips, steep inclines, or rides with a trailer, more capacity is worthwhile. Plan for a reserve rather than fully exhausting the maximum range stated by the manufacturer.

A removable battery is practical if there is no power outlet at your bike parking space. In winter, you can also store it in a dry, moderately temperate room. Extreme heat, frost during charging, and prolonged storage in a fully discharged state accelerate aging. How many years a battery lasts therefore depends more on usage and storage than on the calendar.

For older riders, age alone is not the deciding factor. Agility, balance, height, and hand strength determine which bike is a safe fit. A Gazelle Dutch e-bike with a low step-through frame can make mounting easier. The step-through area should be wide enough so that you do not have to lift your foot high over the down tube.

The Easyflow is aimed at people who need to be able to touch the ground quickly when stopping. Its frame geometry allows you to place both feet on the ground while remaining seated in the saddle. The low center of gravity, the 24-inch wheels, and the wide step-through support controlled starting and stopping. Gazelle specifies a suitable height range of approximately 150 to 180 centimeters for this model. Individual adjustment remains necessary, however.

The Arroyo, Paris, or Avignon are also options for seniors. These series offer variants with low-step frames and an upright seating position. Which model is a better fit depends on the desired riding behavior. The Easyflow provides a strong sense of being close to the ground. The Arroyo rides like a classic, comfortable Dutch bike. Depending on the version, the Avignon features a more powerful motor and larger batteries for longer tours.

When it comes to equipment, the following points are particularly important:

• Hydraulic brakes usually require little hand force and are easy to modulate.
• A hub gear system is straightforward, and many versions can be shifted while at a standstill.
• An adjustable stem helps to adapt handlebar height and reach.
• Wide tires improve grip and dampen small bumps.
• A walk-assist feature provides support when maneuvering on ramps and inclines.
• An easy-to-read display makes it simpler to monitor speed, battery level, and assistance mode.

A particularly low step-through frame alone does not make an e-bike safe. During your test ride, check whether you can keep the handlebars steady at slow speeds. Also, test starting on a slope, a sharp turn, and controlled braking. If the bike feels too heavy when pushing it, a lighter model may be the better choice, even with fewer comfort features.

Gazelle e-bikes predominantly use mid-drive motors. The motor is located at the bottom bracket and provides assistance directly where pedal power enters the drivetrain. This ensures balanced weight distribution and a natural riding feel. The strength of the assistance depends on the motor model, the selected mode, and the programmed settings.

The following technical points are important when making a selection:

• Bosch motors are used in various performance classes. A moderate system is sufficient for flat city routes. For hilly paths, frequent starting, and heavy luggage, higher torque is advisable.
• Shimano components are used in gear systems and drivetrains, among other things. The specific equipment varies depending on the model and year of manufacture.
• A battery integrated into the down tube distributes the weight centrally and ensures a clean frame design. Depending on the construction, removal may require a few more steps.
• A rear carrier battery is usually easy to reach and remove. The additional weight is positioned further back, which can be noticeable when the rack is loaded.
• An internal gear hub is well-suited for city traffic and can be shifted while at a standstill. A derailleur system usually offers more gears and is suitable for varying terrain.
• A belt drive requires no chain oil and causes less dirt on clothing. It operates quietly and requires little maintenance, but it costs more and requires a frame specifically designed for it.

The range of an e-bike cannot be derived from battery capacity alone. Support level, rider weight, luggage, tire pressure, headwind, temperature, and inclines all influence consumption. High manufacturer estimates assume favorable conditions and an economical support level. With high levels of support and low temperatures, the achievable distance can be significantly shorter.

If you primarily ride on flat city routes, a comfortably tuned motor with moderate torque is often sufficient. For steep climbs or heavy loads, a more powerful motor variant makes sense. For long tours, it is not just the battery that should be large enough. A suitable seating position and a well-graduated drivetrain are just as important.

When deciding between a chain and a belt, the intended use counts. The classic chain is widespread, efficient, and can be easily replaced in many workshops. It requires cleaning and lubrication. The belt is interesting for commuters who ride in any weather and want to reduce maintenance effort.