Ellipse E1: A New Accessible French Electric Bicycle

A new French bicycle brand (and assembled in France) emerges under the name Ellipse, with a muscular M1 version and an electric E1 bike.

The company was founded only in 2020. Ellipse Industries launched Ellipse Bikes, a new bicycle brand. And proudly French, it was born in Troyes (Aube), as a project by three engineers from the region. The first bikes are now available: the classic muscular M1, and the electric Ellipse E1.

The ideal compromise: classic and modern?

The Ellipse bike emphasizes simplicity. A single closed trapezoidal frame, straight handlebars, a sleek, versatile look, but with a few small details that make a difference. Like some models, the lighting is perfectly integrated, somewhat similar to Vanmoof, in line with the top bar of the frame.

The front triangular headlight distinguishes the E1 and M1, to which the brand adds turn signals at the handlebar ends and at the rear. Not many bikes still incorporate turn signals, like Angell, which is quite unfortunate.

Small motor, big qualities

Besides its look and integrated lighting, the simplicity—and the aluminum frame—contribute to a lightweight of just 17.8 kg, which is low for an electric bike. Its removable, frame-integrated 360 Wh battery would offer “40 to 70 km of range” depending on the mode. The rear motor provides only 35 Nm of torque, similar to a Decathlon Elops 120E, with 3 modes, activated via a torque sensor. Good acceleration response is expected, and ease of use in city riding is supported by a belt drive.

We do not know the shock absorption quality of the Mitas tires used, but the E1 adds a suspended seat for comfort. Finally, hydraulic disc brakes are a plus for smooth braking. In terms of connectivity, a GPS chip allows locating the bike, and crucially, sending an alert in case of suspicious movement.

What is the price of the Ellipse E1?

And the price for this bike assembled in Troyes with all these qualities? Not as high as one might have guessed! The launch price of the Ellipse E1 is €1,990 for the first 200 units. The price will then increase to €2,490, still excluding subsidies, with deliveries starting in April 2023. Moving forward, Ellipse Bikes is already working on a “Made in France” bike.

The smaller non-electric version, the Ellipse M1, is already available at €1,890. It features the same motor equipment, battery, and display, with the addition of a belt drive and lighting!

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