
Are you looking for an e-bike for your daily commute or for relaxed rides through the city? The REX E-Bike Commuter+ impresses with its lightweight carbon frame and minimalist design, while the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB scores points with its comfortable seating position and high-quality equipment. Both models offer reliable safety, modern technology, and different motors. The choice depends on your requirements for ride comfort, value for money, and features such as the 70Nm mid-drive motor and Shimano hub gear system.
Key Insights
The REX E-Bike Commuter+ is lightweight and ideal for commuters who value style and efficiency.
The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB offers comfort and a relaxed seating position, perfect for longer rides.
Both e-bikes feature modern technology, low-maintenance hub gears, and hydraulic disc brakes for safety.
The motors differ: The Bosch Active Line Plus in the Gazelle offers more power, while the Shimano Steps E5000 in the REX provides smooth assistance.
Battery capacity and range are important: The REX Commuter+ has a range of up to 160 km, the Gazelle up to 150 km.
Models at a Glance

REX E-Bike Commuter+ Brief Info
Are you looking for an e-bike that is light and elegant? The REX E-Bike Commuter+ offers you a carbon frame with clean lines and a minimalist design. Weighing just 16 kg, the bike is easy to carry and maneuver. The frame feels high-quality and provides a modern look. The Commuter+ is aimed at commuters who value style and efficiency. You benefit from maintenance-free hub gears and hydraulic disc brakes. The Schwalbe Big Ben tires protect you against punctures and offer safety on various surfaces.
Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB Brief Info
The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB appeals to you if you are looking for comfort and versatility. The sturdy aluminum frame weighs 24.5 kg and features a sporty geometry with a low step-through. You enjoy a pleasant seating position that makes even longer rides comfortable. Equipment includes a Shimano Nexus 8-speed hub gear system and hydraulic disc brakes. The 28-inch wheels with Schwalbe Energizer Plus tires ensure good traction on asphalt and gravel. This e-bike is suitable for city riding and leisure activities.
Main Differences
Model |
Frame Material |
Weight |
Design & Target Group |
|---|---|---|---|
REX Commuter+ |
Carbon |
16 kg |
Minimalist, urban, for commuters |
Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB |
Aluminum |
24.5 kg |
Comfortable, sporty, for versatility |
Tip: If you are looking for a lightweight e-bike for your daily commute, the REX Commuter+ is a good fit for you. If you want more comfort and a robust construction, the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB offers many advantages.
You recognize the differences immediately: the REX Commuter+ impresses with its low weight and modern design. The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB scores points with comfort and a stable frame. Both models are aimed at different users. You can decide based on your needs which e-bike better suits your daily life.
Motor & Drivetrain
70Nm Mid-Drive Motor with Shimano Hub Gear System in Comparison
If you are looking for an e-bike, the drivetrain plays a decisive role. The combination of a 70Nm mid-drive motor and Shimano hub gear system offers you harmonious and powerful support. A comparison shows just how differently the systems work.
Feature |
Mid-Drive Motor (E8000) |
Shimano Hub Gear |
|---|---|---|
Torque |
- |
|
Support |
Dynamic |
Smooth gear shifts |
Size |
Small |
- |
Weight |
Low |
- |
With a 70Nm mid-drive motor and Shimano hub gear system, you benefit from the following advantages:
Harmonious shifting performance
Smooth gear shifts
Minimization of drivetrain torque during gear changes
You can choose between different types of shifting, such as mechanical derailleur, electronic Di2 hub gears, or fully automatic hub gears. Especially in daily use, the stepless hub gear system ensures a comfortable and low-maintenance ride. Many users praise the quiet gear changes and ease of operation.
Bosch Active Line Plus vs Shimano Steps E5000
Both e-bikes rely on proven motors that differ in riding behavior and performance. The Bosch Active Line Plus in the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB offers you more power and is particularly suitable for steep climbs and longer tours. The Shimano Steps E5000 in the REX Commuter+ impresses with smooth, even support and is ideal for flat routes and city traffic.
Motor |
Support Mode |
Riding Behavior |
|---|---|---|
Bosch Active Line Plus |
More power and performance, ideal for steep climbs |
Sporty, dynamic, suitable for longer tours |
Shimano Steps E5000 |
Smooth, even support, ideal for flat routes |
Reliable, pleasant, low-maintenance |
Bosch Active Line Plus is suitable for longer tours and more demanding terrain.
Shimano Steps E5000 is ideal for commuters and daily riders in urban environments.
The motors also differ in torque. While the Bosch motor works with up to 50 Nm, the Shimano Steps E5000 offers 40 Nm. For hilly terrain, a higher torque is recommended; from 60 Nm upwards, riding becomes significantly more pleasant. In turbo mode, you receive strong support, especially on inclines.
Riding Behavior & Support
Riding behavior depends heavily on the interaction between motor and gears. With a 70Nm mid-drive motor and Shimano hub gear system, you experience dynamic support and smooth gear changes. The stepless hub gear allows you to continuously adapt to any riding situation. You will always find the right setup for your speed.
Many users report that e-bikes with hub gears are particularly quiet and low-maintenance. Daily usability is often praised, as you only need to perform small checks occasionally. For professional commuters and daily riders, this is a major advantage.
The range and performance of the motors depend on several factors:
Battery capacity (between 250 and 600 Wh)
Riding mode (Turbo, Sport, Eco)
Weight of the rider
Route and wind conditions
In daily use, it is clear: the Bosch motor scores with power and efficiency, especially on steep climbs. The Shimano Steps E5000 impresses with reliability and a pleasant riding feel in city traffic. Both systems offer you comfortable and safe support, ensuring you arrive at your destination relaxed.
Tip: Consider whether you value sporty performance or low-maintenance comfort more. The combination of a 70Nm mid-drive motor and Shimano hub gear system offers you a modern and efficient solution for your daily life in any case.
Battery & Range
Battery Capacity
The battery capacity determines how far you can get with your e-bike. With the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB, you get a powerful 500 Wh battery. This battery enables long rides, whether in the city or the countryside. The REX E-Bike Commuter+ offers you a semi-integrated 14 Ah battery, which also promises a high range. The capacity is within the range of modern e-bikes and ensures that you don't have to recharge constantly.
E-Bike Model |
Battery Capacity (Wh) |
Range (km) |
|---|---|---|
Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB |
500 |
up to 150 |
REX E-Bike Commuter+ |
504 (14 Ah, 36 V) |
up to 160 |
Tip: A larger battery does not always mean more range. Your riding style and the terrain play a major role.
Charging Times
Charging time is important if you use your e-bike daily. You certainly don't want to wait long until your battery is full again. Both models offer short charging times, so you are ready to go again quickly.
Model |
Charging Time |
|---|---|
Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB |
approx. 4.5 hours |
REX E-Bike Commuter+ |
approx. 5 hours |
With a 4A charger, you can fully charge the battery of the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB in about 4.5 hours. For the REX Commuter+, it takes around 5 hours. This allows you to charge the battery comfortably overnight or while you are at work.
Range in Daily Use
The range in daily use depends on many factors. You have to start pedaling frequently when you are in the city. This consumes more energy than a steady ride in the countryside. Your weight, the route, and the weather also influence how far you get.
Most e-bikes offer a range between 60 and 160 km, depending on battery capacity.
In city traffic, you will usually reach 70 to 100 km with both models, as frequent starting strains the battery more.
On longer, level stretches, you can achieve up to 160 km with the REX Commuter+ and up to 150 km with the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB.
Note: If you commute daily or plan longer excursions, you will benefit from a high battery capacity and short charging times. Both models offer you a reliable solution here.
Ride Comfort

Seating Position & Ergonomics
You feel the difference immediately when you sit on both e-bikes. The REX E-Bike Commuter+ offers you a sporty yet relaxed seating position. The carbon frame provides an ergonomic posture. You can steer the bike easily and enjoy a good overview of city traffic. The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB focuses on comfort. The low step-through and the wide saddle make longer rides pleasant. The Aero leather grips feel good in the hand and support a natural body posture. You benefit from a relaxed seating position that does not cause fatigue even on longer stretches.
Tip: Choose the model that suits your riding style. For fast rides in daily life, the REX Commuter+ is suitable. For relaxed tours, the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB offers more comfort.
Suspension & Tires
Suspension and tires significantly influence ride comfort. On the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB, the 28-inch Schwalbe Energizer Plus tires ensure good traction on asphalt and gravel. The model uses a telescopic fork with 75 mm of travel, which absorbs bumps and gives you a smooth riding feel. The REX E-Bike Commuter+ uses Schwalbe Big Ben tires with puncture protection. You ride safely on various surfaces and feel fewer vibrations. The combination of tires and frame ensures a pleasant ride, even without a classic suspension fork.
Model |
Suspension System |
Travel (mm) |
Tire Type |
|---|---|---|---|
Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB |
Telescopic fork |
75 |
Energizer Plus for asphalt/gravel |
REX Commuter+ |
No classic suspension fork |
- |
Big Ben for city and light trails |
Riding Feel
You will experience the ride quality of both e-bikes differently. The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB rides comfortably and in a relaxed manner. The suspension smooths out bumps, allowing you to enjoy a smooth ride. The REX E-Bike Commuter+ feels light and agile. You can accelerate quickly and benefit from direct power transmission. Independent tests show that e-bikes with comfortable suspension and an ergonomic seating position are particularly impressive on longer rides.
E-Bike |
Ride quality |
|---|---|
Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB |
Comfortable, relaxed posture, smooth ride on various surfaces |
REX Commuter+ |
Light, agile, direct power transmission, ideal for fast rides in city traffic |
Note: You decide whether you value comfort or sporty agility. Both models offer you a pleasant riding experience that suits your everyday life. 🚴♂️
Equipment & Technology
Gearing & Brakes
Would you like to know how the gearing and braking system of the two e-bikes differ? The following table shows you the most important differences at a glance:
Gearing |
Braking system |
|
|---|---|---|
Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB |
Shimano Nexus 8-speed internal gear hub |
Hydraulic disc brakes (front: 180mm, rear: 160mm) |
REX E-Bike Commuter+ |
Maintenance-free internal gear hub |
Hydraulic disc brakes |
With both models, you benefit from an internal gear hub, which offers advantages particularly in city traffic. Gear changes are smooth and require little maintenance. The hydraulic disc brakes ensure strong braking performance, even in wet conditions. This gives you safety in your daily routine. The combination of a 70Nm mid-drive motor, Shimano internal gear hub, and high-quality brakes makes both e-bikes reliable companions.
Lighting & Display
Lighting plays a major role in your safety. Both e-bikes rely on permanently installed, battery-powered lighting. You do not have to worry about changing batteries. The lights are robust and illuminate your path well.
The display is easy to read on both models. Even in direct sunlight, you can see all important information. The 1.8-inch LC display shows you assist levels, speed, mileage, and battery capacity. Operation is done via a few buttons, making everyday use very easy.
Tip: An easy-to-read display and reliable lighting increase your safety in road traffic.
The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB uses a Bosch display that is informative and clear. You can quickly read the riding modes, range, and speed. The REX E-Bike Commuter+ also offers you a modern display with all important functions.
Mid-drive motor 70Nm Shimano internal gear hub features
The combination of a 70Nm mid-drive motor and Shimano internal gear hub brings you many advantages. You receive harmonious assistance while riding. Gear changes are quiet and without jerking. The system adapts to your riding style. You can choose between different support modes, which provides flexibility in everyday life.
Many users appreciate the low-maintenance technology. You rarely need to make adjustments. The connection of the 70Nm mid-drive motor, Shimano internal gear hub, and hydraulic disc brakes ensures a safe and pleasant riding experience. The technology works reliably and supports you on all routes.
E-Bike |
Safety features |
Connectivity features |
|---|---|---|
Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB |
Hydraulic disc brakes, stable frame, battery with lock |
Bosch display for showing riding modes and range |
REX E-Bike Commuter+ |
Hydraulic disc brakes, carbon frame, puncture-resistant tires |
LC display with ride data, simple operation |
As you can see: Both models offer you modern safety and connectivity features. The technology supports you in everyday life and ensures comfort and safety.
Note: The combination of a 70Nm mid-drive motor, Shimano internal gear hub, and modern equipment makes both e-bikes a good choice for commuters and city riders.
Design & Craftsmanship
Appearance & Colors
You want an e-bike that matches your style. The REX E-Bike Commuter+ features a minimalist design with clear lines. The look is modern and timeless. The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB focuses on an elegant shape and sporty details. Both models offer you different color variants so you can add your personal touch.
Model |
Available colors |
Frame configurations |
|---|---|---|
REX Commuter+ |
Black, gray |
Urban, sporty |
Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB |
Champion Red, Pine Green |
Low step-through, sporty |
Tip: Choose the color that suits your everyday life and taste. A striking design ensures more visibility in road traffic.
Material quality
The material quality determines how long you will enjoy your e-bike. With the REX Commuter+, you get a high-quality carbon frame. This ensures stability and low weight. The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB uses a robust aluminum alloy. Experts rate both frames as stable and high-quality. The workmanship of the components is positive. Brakes and motor are strongly dimensioned and offer you safety.
Aspect |
Rating |
|---|---|
Material quality |
Stable and high-quality |
Workmanship |
Positively rated |
Aluminum alloy |
Convincing |
Frame stability |
High-quality |
Brakes and motor |
Sufficiently strongly dimensioned |
Battery |
Nicely integrated into the frame |
Display |
Clear |
Note: You benefit from a durable construction and reliable technology. The control center is easy to operate.
Weight & Handling
Weight influences how easily you can move your e-bike. The REX Commuter+ weighs only 16 kg. You can lift it effortlessly and transport it without problems. The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB tips the scales at 24.5 kg. The handling remains pleasant, especially due to the low step-through and balanced geometry.
E-Bike |
Weight |
Handling rating |
Suitability for everyday use |
|---|---|---|---|
REX Commuter+ |
16 kg |
Very light, agile |
High |
Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB |
24.5 kg |
Stable, comfortable |
High |
You can move the REX Commuter+ quickly through the city.
The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB offers you comfort while riding and parking.
Tip: A low weight makes your everyday life easier, especially when carrying or storing it. Both models are impressive with good handling and high suitability for everyday use.
Price-Performance
Acquisition costs
When buying an e-bike, price plays a major role. You want to know how much you have to invest for the REX E-Bike Commuter+ or the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB. You can find a clear market price for the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB. There is currently no official information available for the REX E-Bike Commuter+. The following table shows the available information:
E-Bike model |
Acquisition costs |
|---|---|
Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB |
|
REX E-Bike Commuter+ |
Not specified |
Tip: A precise price comparison is only possible if both prices are known. You should also watch out for promotions and discounts that could influence the final price.
Follow-up costs & Warranty
After the purchase, further costs arise. These include maintenance, wear parts, and possible repairs. Both models rely on low-maintenance components such as internal gear hubs and hydraulic disc brakes. This saves you time and money in everyday life.
Regarding the warranty, many manufacturers offer at least two years on the motor and battery. Gazelle even provides ten years on the frame. This ensures safety and trust. The follow-up costs remain manageable for both models if you maintain your e-bike regularly.
Model |
Motor warranty |
Battery warranty |
Maintenance costs (estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB |
2 years |
2 years |
Low to medium |
REX E-Bike Commuter+ |
2 years* |
2 years* |
Low to medium |
*Manufacturer specifications may vary.
Note: A long warranty protects you against unexpected expenses. You should check the terms and conditions before buying.
Value retention
Value retention determines how much your e-bike is still worth after a few years. High-quality materials like carbon or aluminum and well-known brands like Gazelle or REX often ensure good resale value.
The REX E-Bike Commuter+ scores with a light carbon frame and modern technology.
The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB impresses with comfort and a strong brand.
You benefit from solid value retention with both models if you look after your e-bike and maintain it regularly.
Tip: A well-maintained e-bike with complete documentation sells more easily and usually achieves a higher price.
Everyday life & Areas of application
Commuters & City traffic
You want an e-bike that reliably gets you through everyday life. The REX E-Bike Commuter+ shows its strengths in city traffic. You benefit from a lightweight carbon frame and can easily carry the bike. The internal gear hub is low-maintenance and ensures fast gear changes. In rush hour, you move agilely and safely. The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB offers you comfort on longer routes. The low step-through makes getting on and off easier. The sporty geometry ensures a relaxed seating position. You enjoy a smooth ride, even if you make many stops.
Tip: Choose the model that fits your commute. The REX Commuter+ is suitable for fast rides in an urban environment. For more comfort in rush hour, the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB offers advantages.
Shopping & Leisure
You don't just use your e-bike for the way to work. When shopping and in your free time, you can see how practical both models are. The REX Commuter+ impresses with its low weight. You can easily park and transport it. The Schwalbe Big Ben tires offer you safety on various surfaces. The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB scores with a stable construction. You have enough space for bags and shopping. The equipment ensures comfort on longer excursions.
E-Bike model |
User experiences |
|---|---|
Kalkhoff Endeavour 5+ Move |
Robust, suitable for everyday use, comfortable, perfect for short trips and longer excursions, high ease of use. |
Gazelle Ultimate T10 HMB |
High riding comfort, good equipment, combines many great features, safe and confident in riding. |
As you can see: Users value comfort and suitability for everyday use. Both models offer you a reliable solution for shopping and leisure.
User profiles
You will find the right e-bike if you look at your everyday life. The REX E-Bike Commuter+ is aimed at commuters who value style and efficiency. You move quickly through the city and enjoy modern technology. The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB appeals to users who are looking for comfort and versatility. You benefit from a relaxed seating position and a robust construction.
Commuters choose the REX Commuter+ for fast rides.
Leisure riders and frequent users prefer the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB for comfort and flexibility.
Note: Think about how you want to use your e-bike in everyday life. This way, you will find the model that fits your lifestyle. 🚲
You face a choice: If you are looking for a light, agile e-bike for fast city traffic, the REX Commuter+ is the right fit for you. If you value comfort and versatility, the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB is the convincing choice. Experts recommend paying attention to these criteria:
Gearing and ease of use
A suitable overall package for your everyday life
A test ride will help you find the best model for your needs. Both e-bikes offer you modern technology and high quality. 🚲
FAQ
How do the motors of the two e-bikes differ?
You will find the Shimano Steps E5000 with 40 Nm on the REX Commuter+. The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB uses the Bosch Active Line Plus with 50 Nm. The Bosch motor offers more power for steep routes. The Shimano motor provides smooth support in city traffic.
What advantages does the carbon frame of the REX Commuter+ offer?
You benefit from a very lightweight bicycle. The carbon frame weighs only 16 kg. You can easily carry and move the e-bike. The design looks modern and elegant. For commuters, the weight is a major advantage.
How long does the battery last on both models?
You can achieve up to 160 km with the REX Commuter+. The Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB manages up to 150 km. The range depends on your riding style and the terrain. Both batteries offer you enough energy for everyday use.
Which gearing system is better suited for city traffic?
You use low-maintenance hub gears on both e-bikes. The Shimano Nexus 8-speed on the Gazelle and the maintenance-free hub gear on the REX ensure smooth gear changes. In city traffic, you benefit from simple operation and little maintenance.
Are there differences in the warranty?
You receive a ten-year warranty on the frame and two years on the battery and motor with the Gazelle Ultimate C8 HMB. With the REX Commuter+, you get a two-year warranty on the battery and motor. Check the terms before purchasing.
