Gazelle’s Arroyo commuter bike pairs a belt drive with continuous-variable hub

Gazelle’s new Arroyo commuter e-bike combines a maintenance-friendly belt drive with a continuous-variable transmission in the rear hub, a configuration Ars Technica reviewer John Timmer rode and evaluated on a standard commuter frame. The Arroyo is a step-through, upright-stance bike with a large rack, fenders, front suspension fork and a suspension seatpost.

Gazelle offers three versions: a base model with a chain drive and lower-powered assist for $3,000, and the top C380 Elite, which adds $1,500 for a more powerful Bosch mid-drive (75 Nm), a better display and the belt drive—bringing that model to $4,500. The Bosch mid motor uses a torque sensor, runs nearly silently, and provides eco, tour and boost assist modes plus an auto setting; a smartphone app can customize assists, map rides and update firmware.

The belt drive simplifies maintenance but can make servicing more challenging; it’s paired with an internally geared continuous-variable transmission that allows infinitesimal shifts and can be changed while stationary. Shifting is done with a circular dial integrated into the handlebar grip, and because the gearing is internal there’s no visible ratio indicator, so initial shifts often require small adjustments until the rider develops a feel for the system.

Timmer wrote that once accustomed to it, the drivetrain “really shined,” letting him reach the system’s assist cutoff at 20 mph (32 km/h) with relative ease.

Key Topics

Tech, Gazelle, Arroyo, Bosch, Belt Drive, Cvt Hub