Qwic is regarded as a pioneer in the ebike industry. The Amsterdam-based manufacturer has been on the market since 2006. At the end of 2023, the company’s future was threatened by bankruptcy. Following its takeover by the Dutch investment firm Ecomotion, the company is now gradually getting back on track. A new lightweight urban ebike is set to help with this in the 2026 model year – the Qwic Signal.
1. Qwic Signal as an epitome of an everyday bike
2. Urban ebike requiring minimal maintenance
3. Powerful motor compensates for the lack of gears
4. Battery fully integrated with the Qwic Signal
5. Appropriate price compared to the competition
1. Qwic Signal as an epitome of an everyday bike
Agile, practical and ready to go at any time. This is how Qwic describes the Signal on its website. And it is precisely based on this set of requirements that the manufacturer has developed its new model. It is explicitly designed for anyone who wants to cover short distances in the city and prefers an ebike to a car, public transport or a bicycle without electric assistance.
For this to really pay off in the long run, the ebike should, for example, be reliably ready for use at any time of day or night and in all weathers. Qwic meets this requirement by fitting fenders, a full lighting system and a rear rack that can carry a maximum load of 20 kilograms. However, the photos consider the latter to be not compatible with systems such as MIK, Racktime or Klickfix. This means that suitable baskets, bags or other accessories cannot be firmly attached to the rear rack via a plug-in connection.
2. Urban ebike requiring minimal maintenance
With the gear system, you won’t have any problems in everyday use either – because there isn’t one. Tailored to the mostly flat terrain in the Netherlands, Qwic has opted for a single fixed gear ratio on the Signal. The single-speed drivetrain is complemented by a carbon belt. This requires neither lubrication nor frequent retensioning or other maintenance. It is therefore the perfect setup for those who enjoy cycling but don’t want to spend much time on bike maintenance.
The Kenda tyres also play their part in ensuring a hassle-free ride. A protective layer made of Kevlar is woven into them across the entire width. This is designed to protect against punctures and cuts, as well as minimise wear. At 45 millimetres, the tyre width is chosen to provide a level of riding comfort that should be sufficient within the city, provided the correct tyre pressure is maintained. However, the best way to find out how you’ll cope outside the city limits without a suspension fork but with a suspension seatpost is still to take it for a longer test ride.
3. Powerful motor compensates for the lack of gears
During this, you can immediately assess whether the single-speed drivetrain concept suits you. Here, the built-in ebike motor plays an even greater role than it already does on an ebike. After all, its power and the associated riding modes are your only option for regulating your effort depending on the terrain, wind conditions and the surface. Qwic relies on a rear-wheel hub motor for this task. From its typical continuously rated power of 250 watts, it generates a torque of 42 Newton-metres. Compared to other rear-wheel motors, this figure places it in the upper mid-range. Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness can use the Signal to tackle even longer, gentle climbs – despite the single-speed setup.
Qwic has packaged everyday practicality and reliability in a design that looks more modern than the manufacturer’s other ebikes. At the same time, the look is still a step away from the iconic design of a Vanmoof or Cowboy. To be fair, it should be noted that Qwic also cultivates a different image of itself than Vanmoof or Cowboy do. The focus is much more on aspects such as a relaxed riding position. The frame geometry was designed with this in mind. And details such as the angle-adjustable stem help you find that comfortable riding position on the ebike.
However, you should keep an eye on the frame sizes in this context. Qwic offers just two of these: M and L. Although you can choose between a diamond frame and a low-step frame, it’s clear that not everyone with a height between 155 and 210 centimetres will find a suitable fit.
4. Battery fully integrated with the Qwic Signal
Qwic also wanted to fine-tune the weight of its new city ebike. After all, when cycling in town, there are various situations where you might need to carry the Signal. Whether it’s a few steps to reach an underpass, a suitable parking spot, or onto a bus or train if you’re commuting to work.
To keep the weight as low as possible, the battery has been firmly integrated into the down tube. Consequently, you’re tied to the ebike when it comes to charging. This won’t be everyone’s preferred option. However, this decision ensures that the Qwic achieves an acceptable weight of around 20.6 kilograms. Furthermore, integrating the battery into the frame prevents it from being stolen or damaged.
The battery’s capacity of 360 watt-hours gives you a maximum range of 60 kilometres. Those with a longer commute who wish to ride daily might have hoped for more. For others, however, this means they can get through the whole week on a single charge. According to Qwic, once the battery is completely flat, it takes around 3.5 hours to recharge to 100 per cent.
5. Appropriate price compared to the competition
Given the price of 2,399 euros, the Qwic Signal strikes us as a fair deal. In a way, it is somewhat reminiscent of the Momentum Voya+ from Giant. Weighing 18 kilograms, it is slightly lighter but features a smaller battery and a less powerful motor. However, with the relevant accessories, it is priced below the Signal – optionally even with a ten-speed derailleur.
Qwic Signal at a glance
- Frame: Aluminium
- Frame sizes: M, L
- Motor: Rear hub motor
- Battery: 360 Wh
- Control unit: n/a
- Display: 2.3″, TFT
- Drivetrain: Single-speed
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Weight: approx. 20.6 kg
- Maximum permitted total weight: n/a
- Colours: Asphalt Black, Concrete Grey, Oker Yellow
- Price: 2,399 euros
Pictures: Qwic B.V.