ST5

ebike– EUR

Origin

Stromer was founded in 2009 with Swiss headquarters in Oberwangen near Bern, and built its reputation on high-end speed pedelecs. The ST5 launched in April 2018 as the brand's technological flagship, the first Stromer with the SYNO Sport gearless hub motor, the 983 Wh battery and full OMNI connectivity. In 2024 the line was reborn as the ST5 Pinion, swapping the original Shimano XTR Di2 derailleur for a sealed Pinion C1.9 gearbox with Gates carbon belt and Smart.Shift, and it was awarded Speed Pedelec Bike of the Year 2025.

Specifications

Frame: 6061 aluminum alloy, fully integrated battery in downtube; high-step frame, sizes M/L/XL (orig. 17/20/22 inch). 10-year frame warranty
Weight: kg
Drivetrain: Current (ST5 Pinion 2024): Pinion C1.9 XR sealed gearbox, 9-speed, 568% range, Smart.Shift electronic shifting, Gates Carbon belt drive, Pinion Forged 175mm crank, 39T sprocket. Original ST5 (2018): Shimano XTR 1x11 Di2 electronic, 11-42 cassette, 52T narrow-wide chainring
Brakes: Stromer HD944 by TRP, 4/4-piston hydraulic disc, 203mm rotors front and rear, with integrated ABS (anti-lock braking) + regenerative braking, 5 recoup levels
Wheels: 27.5 inch; Stromer 27.5 x 35 rims by RODI (orig. DT Swiss alloy double-wall 40mm)

The verdict

+Strengths

One of the fastest-accelerating yet quietest speed pedelecs; smooth gearless hub motor and luxury-car ride feel
Huge 983 Wh battery delivers genuine long-distance range (up to 180 km, ~150 km real-world in eco)
Advanced connected tech: 4G GPS tracking, Smartlock anti-theft, crash detection, OTA updates, deep OMNI app customization
Integrated ABS plus 203mm 4-piston TRP brakes and regenerative braking for safe high-speed stopping
Pinion version is low-maintenance: sealed gearbox + Gates carbon belt, no chain or derailleur

−Weaknesses

Extremely expensive (EUR 10990 / USD 11990 base, climbing past USD 13000 fully equipped)
Very heavy: ~34 kg (75.5 lb) for the Pinion, ~30 kg for the original, limiting portability and hill carrying
Proprietary non-adjustable stem/handlebar and special tools (T70 Torx) make fit and service awkward
Steep learning curve and ongoing concerns about ABS maintenance/repair cost and parts availability
Gearless direct-drive motor adds cogging drag when unpowered, and the original Di2 needed a separate shifting battery