A double first for Kalkhoff: with the new Endeavour L Touring, the brand is launching its first-ever model featuring drop bars – or road handlebars. In doing so, the manufacturer is venturing into a sector that has hitherto been dominated by gravel bikes. But that’s not all: at the same time, this is the first time the brand’s own range has featured an electronic derailleur from TRP, which even offers an automatic mode.
Based on Kalkhoff’s Lightweight series, which was introduced with the Bosch SX motor, the new Endeavour L Touring features a drive system with a sporty character that now delivers 60 Nm of torque, combined with the CompactTube battery and its 400 Wh capacity. Particularly practical for everyday use – and by no means a given on bikes with this drive system – is the ability to conveniently remove the battery from the top of the frame. This makes handling during charging considerably easier, especially if there is no socket near where the bike is parked. Incidentally, the Endeavour L Touring is said to weigh in at 21.7 kilograms.
Electric shifting and drop-bar handlebars
With the drop-bar handlebars, Kalkhoff is deliberately venturing into new territory – no doubt helped by the ongoing gravel trend. At the same time, however, everyday use shows that such racing handlebars can certainly have their advantages. The different grip positions provide variety and relieve strain on the hands – a clear gain in comfort, particularly over longer distances. Anyone who regularly covers long distances will quickly come to appreciate this flexibility.
Gear changes are handled by the TRP E.A.S.I. drivetrain, which features eleven gears. In addition to traditional manual shifting, the system also offers an automatic mode – in this case, the electronics handle the gear changes independently and automatically adjust the gear ratio to suit the riding conditions. This makes the bike ride much like a vehicle with an automatic transmission, which can provide added comfort, particularly in city traffic or on varied terrain.
Practical features for everyday use and touring
Kalkhoff has also opted for a sportier design for the braking system. An 180-millimetre brake disc is fitted at the front, whilst the rear disc measures 160 millimetres – a combination designed to ensure reliable deceleration even at higher speeds or when carrying additional load. For the tyres, the bike is fitted with Schwalbe G-One Overland Performance tyres, 50 mm wide, which offer a good balance of efficiency on tarmac and traction on unpaved trails.
The specification is complemented by a range of practical features for everyday use. Mudguards are included as standard, as is a lighting system featuring a rear light with a brake light function, and a MIK-compatible luggage rack that makes it easy to fit compatible panniers or baskets. This means that, despite its sporty character, the Endeavour L Touring remains a fully-fledged everyday and touring bike.
Price and availability
The model is available in Aqua Grey/Fennel Green and Umber Brown, as well as in two frame sizes – though exclusively with a diamond frame and a high top tube. The price is 4,199 euros. This places the Endeavour L Touring at the top end of the Lightweight range, yet it offers an unusual and thoroughly exciting blend of sportiness, modern drivetrain technology and innovative gear shifting.
