What all STEVENS bikes with the Plus addition have in common is that they are designed for a higher permissible total weight of 180 kilograms, while standard bikes are approved for a maximum of 140 kilograms. Frames were developed especially for this purpose, which are designed for the higher payload and the associated greater load. They have been tested and certified by an independent bicycle testing institute and are, without exception, Forma low-entry frames without a top tube. This allows to get on and off the bike comfortable and safely even with a loaded rack.
The lightweight aluminium frames of the Plus bikes are also approved for trailer use. Children's bike trailers for one or two passengers can be attached, as can single or double-track cargo trailers for uncomplicated shopping without a car. This makes the Plus bikes ideal family and compact cargo bikes for city and country, leisure and holidays.
In order to obtain approval for the total weight of 180 kilograms, the other components of the bike are also designed accordingly. Components such as the wheels are made of extremely robust rim rings, reinforced spokes are used as well as high-quality hubs with thru axles that allow a high load capacity. The 57-millimetre-wide Schwalbe Marathon Plus MTB tyres with SmartGuard puncture protection insert provide a lot of traction and puncture protection on bad roads. Their all-round tread promises a lot of riding stability and comfort on smooth surfaces, but also excellent traction on unpaved paths as well as off-road.
But not only the frame and wheels of the Plus bikes are robustly designed, also the cockpit with handlebar and stem as well as the height-adjustable Vario seatposts are prepared for the possible stresses that can arise from the higher total weight. In addition, the Vario seatposts can be lowered as needed via a lever on the handlebars, for example to be able to safely reach the ground with both feet when stopping at traffic lights.
On the chassis side, the E-Universe Plus models rely on the sensitive SR Suntour Mobie34-Air 2CR air suspension fork with 100 millimetres of travel, which compensates for road irregularities and thus significantly increases riding safety. It is also designed for the increased loads caused by the higher permissible total weight, and its tuning also offers a lot of comfort and an increase in riding stability, especially on unpaved roads.
The E-Universe Plus model range includes the E-Universe 9.6 Plus FEQ and the E-Universe 7.6 Plus FEQ. Both are equipped with Bosch's Performance Line CX high-performance motor, which develops a maximum torque of 85 Nm and thus brings plenty of reserves for rides with luggage or in hilly regions. The drive on both bikes is powered by a 625 Wh battery integrated into the down tube. It enables long ranges even when calling up high power. 12-speed derailleurs with a wide range of ratios support fast stages on flat terrain as well as climbing in hilly regions.
To ensure that the bikes come to a safe stop from high speeds and with a lot of load, the braking systems are also designed to cope with the load. They offer high and reliable deceleration with low operating forces and excellent control.
The abbreviation FEQ stands for outstanding comfort and safety. It stands for "Fully Equipped" and refers to the extensive standard equipment of the bikes with powerful lighting systems, effective mudguards and stable luggage racks. The latter support the RackTime SnapIt system, so accessories such as bags, baskets or child seats can be mounted. This makes the bikes ideal for commuting and for riders who are on the road all year round.
The E-Universe Plus FEQ series is rounded off by a wide range of frame heights - from a small 46 centimetres up to a large 60 centimetres. This covers a wide range of possible rider sizes.