Lemond Dutch E-Bike Review | Artful Design, Advanced Tech

Using the process described in the graphic above, we evaluated the distance that the LeMond Dutch could travel on a single charge of its 36V, 250 Wh battery. The distances we measured differed significantly from LeMond’s advertised range of 40-70 miles, but they did meet our expectations based on the bike’s motor output and its battery capacity.

Using the bike’s default settings, our testers measured distances of 17.5 miles in Turbo Mode and 41.9 miles in Eco Mode. Knowing that their average speeds were roughly 15 and 13 miles per hour respectively, we can compare the real-world results from our test with the theoretical results we expected.

The Dutch’s nominal motor wattage and its battery’s watt-hour rating are important figures; using the formula explained in our article on calculating e-bike range, we expected its Turbo Mode test to last an hour – and with its max speed in this setting, we anticipated a range of roughly 19 miles. Similarly, with the motor giving 100W of nominal power in Eco Mode, we expected the duration of that test to be roughly 2.5 hours and cover a distance of about 40 miles.

In truth, our results were very close to these estimates, though the motor actually proved to be more efficient than expected. We achieved a slightly greater distance in Eco Mode, but our tester rode for an hour longer than anticipated. And while our results in Turbo Mode were slightly under the estimated range, we also gained over 700 feet of elevation. When climbing hills, the motor used more power, which the aforementioned formula did not take into account.

Based on these figures, the Dutch’s performance was almost perfectly in line with its theoretical range. In comparison, LeMond’s advertised range seems lofty – and is likely unattainable without significantly reducing the motor output or pedaling over the power level of the motor.

We were pleased with the bike’s performance, however, and we consider its real-world range to be practical and appropriate. Riders who might desire more range can take advantage of the optional, external range extender battery that is available for purchase through LeMond’s website.

To evaluate the LeMond Dutch’s hill climbing ability, we subjected it to our standard Hill test – explained in the graphic above. Since the Dutch does not include a throttle, we tested it only with its maximum pedal assist setting, Turbo Mode.

The bike reached the end of the challenging climb in 2 minutes and 14 seconds, maintaining an average speed of 8.1 miles per hour. This result is decidedly slow in comparison to similar e-bikes we tested previously (including the LeMond Prolog) though not unexpectedly so.

Many of those similar bikes (in terms of motor wattage and weight) featured more performance-oriented geometry instead of the relaxed upright positioning of the Dutch. Not only does this positioning encourage more leisurely pedaling, it is less aerodynamic, making hill-climbing somewhat less effective overall.

Regardless of positioning, any e-bike with a 250W motor is going to require at least a moderate level of human input when tackling steep hills. The bike’s motor can – and will – dispense additional power to assist the rider in these situations, but even then, it is limited in its ability when compared to a more powerful 500W or 750W motor.

The X35 drive system that the Dutch uses has a maximum torque output of 40 Newton-meters (Nm), which is relatively low when compared to the 50-90 Nm average that we often see on e-bikes with stronger motors. Considering the Dutch’s casual spirit, we wouldn’t mind seeing a motor with higher torque output to make pedaling uphill easier for the riders we believe are likely to be drawn to it.

That said, we appreciated the bike’s analog-bike feel; its motor is powerful enough to assist the rider in pedaling uphill and preventing exhaustion without fully taking over. Users should expect to put in some effort (as one might expect from a Class 1 e-bike with no throttle), but we’re confident they’ll appreciate the added power from the motor.

The Dutch uses a Shimano hydraulic disc brake system with two-piston calipers on 160-mm rotors. With this setup, we measured an average stopping distance of 22’-5”, which is right in line with the average performance of the other city/urban and cruiser-style e-bikes we have tested with hydraulic disc brake systems (currently 22’-6”).

We noticed that, in spite of its weight and relatively narrow tires, the bike remained remarkably straight and stable while braking. We liked the overall feel of the brakes; they responded quickly with an effective amount of bite to slow the bike properly.

Based on its feel and performance, we can conclude that the Dutch is appropriately specced with quality brakes that are safe and effective.

Though the bike lacks any sort of suspension, we found that it provided a remarkably comfortable ride. The carbon fiber frame seemed to absorb some of the vibrations that would otherwise become bothersome on a steel or aluminum frame.

We appreciated the comfort of all of the bike’s contact points; the rubberized pedals were large and accommodating, the saddle was well-shaped and comfortable (though fans of larger cruiser-style seats may find it small), and the grips were lightweight and minimal but effective. The natural hand position of the grips and curved handlebars was incredibly natural-feeling and comfortable. LeMond offers ergonomic rubber grips, but personally, I don’t think they’re necessary in this case – and I usually prefer that style.

The overall handling and ride feel of the Dutch was superb; its lightweight frame allowed it to maneuver and respond quickly to changes in pedaling. I learned that I needed to be careful of my leg position when turning at slower speeds to prevent it from being in the way of the handlebar, but this was something I adapted to quickly. The bike could accelerate quickly with just a moderate level of effort, and – while the frame never quite seemed to disappear beneath me as I experienced on the LeMond Prolog – its featherweight shell did add an airy, energetic quality to the ride.

The cockpit was expectedly sparse, with little aside from the grips, brake levers, and shifter. Our test bike included the optional Shimano Di2 electronic shifting system paired with a small LCD to indicate the current gear. Otherwise, the Dutch itself does not include a display of any sort, but instead relies on the color of the ring around its single-button interface to communicate PAS setting, charge level, bluetooth connection with the MAHLE MySmartBike app, and more.

We found that the X35 interface had a learning curve, but after some practice, it became second nature. It seemed intuitive, with the default light ring displaying battery charge, and PAS adjustment and light activation/deactivation possible with a button press to activate the system and then another press or hold to change settings. The charge level was easy to understand as well, with a progression from white to green, then orange, red, flashing red, and pink as the charge approached 0%.

Despite the system’s functionality, we would appreciate seeing the option for a display at purchase; this would remove the learning curve and make the bike easier to operate and understand. LeMond offers the optional K-EDGE Garmin Stem Mount, which allows riders to use their phone as a display and interface, but we’d also like to see the MAHLE PulsarONE display offered. This small wireless unit is made specifically for the X35 system, so we think it just makes sense.

Credit where credit is due, however – LeMond offers the optional iWoc trio remote to allow users to control the Dutch’s pedal assist system without having to use the down-tube mounted button. Even with practice, we found the standard interface fairly difficult to operate while moving, as doing so required taking a hand off the bar and taking our eyes off the road. For this reason, we highly recommend adding the iWoc trio remote if you’re considering the Dutch!

We also thoroughly endorse the optional Di2 shifting system. While it might seem more at home on a performance-oriented road bike, the quality and responsiveness of its shifting was superb. Users can pair the system with the E-TUBE app to adjust the speed of the shifting, reverse the buttons, or limit the number of gear changes that can be made while holding one of the levers. The benefits are exponential, and while owners will need to make sure the battery is charged for shifting to work, it’s otherwise a low-maintenance system that adds greatly to the premium experience of the Dutch.

In short, our entire team of testers and reviewers were highly impressed. There are simply a ton of features (included and optional) that combine to give the Dutch an elevated ride quality we think is sure to satisfy discerning riders. This is especially true if you are wanting a super-light e-bike. You can get a more powerful ride from something like the Specialized Turbo Como, but when it comes to light-weight, the Lemond takes the win.

It was clear from the start of this LeMond Dutch review that a great deal of time and care went into the design of the bike. From its overall aesthetic to its thoughtful ergonomics to its standard components and optional accessories, it presents a top-notch experience for those who enjoy pedaling in style.

When discussing the Dutch with our other reviewers, I found it difficult to find anything to critique aside from the limitations of the single-button interface. We were pleased to note that LeMond offers the compatible iWoc trio button pad for easier operation from the handlebars, but we’d also like to see the option for the MAHLE PulsarONE wireless display.

Otherwise, the Dutch delivered a thoroughly enjoyable and remarkably comfortable ride. It performed well in our testing by providing well-distributed and appropriate speeds, effective stopping power, a reserved but appreciated amount of uphill pedal assistance, and a respectable amount of range on a single charge.

With its unique, memorable appearance and advanced technology, we highly recommend the LeMond Dutch for those planning leisurely evening rides through their neighborhood or looking to turn heads while cruising the boardwalk!

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions down in our comments section or if you think we left anything out in this review of the LeMond Dutch.