The rise of compact electric motors and portable battery packs has completely reshaped the cycling world. Not long ago, e-bikes were a niche curiosity. Now they’re everywhere, and the shift toward electric mobility feels unstoppable. With that boom came a flood of brands, each claiming to offer the next big thing, from practical commuters to a hand-crafted e-bike with vintage motorcycle style that has insane power. These models push the limits of design and performance.
The problem? A lot of today’s e-bikes look and feel the same. Similar frames, similar specs, similar promises.
Every now and then, a company comes along that decides to break the mold. Rather than just following the latest trends, they put their energy into craftsmanship, identity, and character. That’s where Ateliers HeritageBike comes into play.
HeritageBike is a French brand that officially came to life in 2018, although it started as just an idea on paper. At that time, it was more of a dream than an actual business. By 2020, they transformed that dream into a reality with the help of funding and their inaugural production model, the Origine.
This bike already reflected their core philosophy: combining the stylish flair of motorcycles with the everyday usability of an electric bike. The Origine took design inspiration from classic scramblers and café racers, quickly setting itself apart from the competition.
Now, HeritageBike is elevating its vision with a model known as the Heroes. This mid-step e-bike is anything but ordinary. From the first glance, it’s clear that it’s not trying to blend in with the sea of mass-market e-bikes. It’s designed to be a true statement piece.
A Handcrafted Electric Bike With Vintage Moto Style
Yes, you’ll find a lot of fat-tire e-bikes with 20-inch wheels out there nowadays, and that’s not surprising. But the Heroes has a distinctive style and setup that really sets it apart. One major factor is where and how it’s made. HeritageBike creates these bikes in France, and a lot of the process involves skilled hands. This is true craftsmanship we’re talking about, not just mass production.
The frame is made from chromoly steel tubes that are thoughtfully shaped and put together. Its mid-step design allows for easier mounting and dismounting, enhancing comfort and accessibility for a diverse group of riders. Not only is it practical, but it also contributes to the bike’s sleek and elegant look.
There’s an intriguing design detail to note: a wood veneer panel on the top tube. While it doesn’t alter how the bike performs, it certainly enhances its visual appeal. This addition infuses the Heroes with warmth and character, lending them a boutique, almost artisanal quality. Many riders place a high value on aesthetics, and HeritageBike clearly understands the emotional link between the rider and their machine.
Steel frames tend to be heavier than their aluminum or carbon fiber counterparts, but the finished Heroes tips the scales at around 30 kg (66 lbs). That’s actually pretty standard for a well-equipped e-bike. To be fair, a lot of that weight comes from the electronics and components, not just the frame itself.
The tubing showcases gentle curves rather than the straight, industrial lines you often find on many modern e-bikes. These curves lend the bike a refined, almost vintage vibe. It feels classy, like it was crafted to be admired just as much as it is to be ridden.
Practical Features That Go Beyond Good Looks
HeritageBike didn’t just stop at making their bikes look good; they also prioritized functionality. The rear fender is sturdy enough to do more than just protect you from splashes. It can support a cargo rack for your groceries or daily necessities. Even more intriguing, it can hold an extra passenger seat. That really speaks to the solid construction they’ve put into this bike.
In the front, you’ll find a generous cargo basket that’s super handy for carrying bags, small packages, or everyday items. However, there’s a slight downside. If you overload it with larger cargo, you might partially block the headlight. That could impact your visibility at night, so it’s wise to pack carefully.
The Heroes comes equipped with sturdy 20-inch wheels that are wrapped in wide 4-inch tires. These chunky tires are fantastic at absorbing bumps, cracks, and uneven surfaces, making both city streets and rough trails feel much smoother. When you add in the inverted front fork with 40 mm of travel, you’re guaranteed a comfortable ride, even on bumpy roads.
Take a closer look, and you’ll see a dropper seatpost. This is a feature that many cyclists appreciate because it allows for quick adjustments to the saddle height. It’s especially convenient if you’re sharing the bike with friends or if you frequently switch between a relaxed ride and more vigorous pedaling.
Valeo Motor, Torque, and Real-World Range Explained
Now, let’s get into what truly drives this machine: the electronics. The Heroes features a Valeo Cyclee mid-drive motor at its core. Its top speed is officially set at 25 km/h (15.5 mph). That might not sound like much, but there’s a solid reason for that.
European e-bike regulations are more stringent compared to those in the U.S. In several EU countries, they impose limits on assisted speeds and classify faster bikes in a different way. Some even require insurance for specific electric mobility devices. HeritageBike designed the Heroes to align with these rules.
But don’t confuse the speed limit with a lack of power. The Cyclee motor packs a punch with up to 130 Nm (96 lb-ft) of torque, which is pretty impressive for an e-bike. That level of torque makes climbing hills feel like a breeze and is a real help when you’re hauling cargo or an extra passenger. It’s the kind of strength that boosts your confidence on all kinds of terrain.
For those riding in the U.S., things get even more exciting. The Valeo system is available here, and with different tuning options, you can achieve higher assisted speeds depending on local regulations. Some tech-savvy riders even look into unlocking options, but that’s always a personal and legal choice.
Range is another big plus. HeritageBike claims you can go up to 100 km (62 miles) on a single charge. Of course, like most manufacturer claims, that’s based on ideal conditions. In the real world, you might see slightly lower numbers. Still, even 80 km (50 miles) is plenty for commuting, running errands, or enjoying weekend rides.
Your actual range will vary based on a few key factors, such as the terrain, the assist level you’re using, your weight, how much cargo you’re carrying, and even the wind conditions. Yes, even that heavy backpack or big lunch can make a difference over time.
The battery is mounted above the motor and is removable. This makes charging easy, especially if you live in an apartment or do not have a power outlet close to your parking area. If you find yourself needing more range, you can always keep a spare battery in the front basket and swap it out when necessary. That kind of flexibility is perfect for those longer journeys.
Instead of a traditional chain, this e-bike uses a Gates carbon belt for its drivetrain. This choice means you’ll have less maintenance to worry about, no greasy mess, and a quieter ride. Belt drives are well-known for their durability and smooth operation, making them a great fit for a premium e-bike like this one.
For braking, it’s equipped with hydraulic Magura brakes and 180 mm rotors. Magura is a respected name in the cycling industry, and their hydraulic systems provide strong and consistent stopping power. On a heavier e-bike, having good brakes is not just a luxury; it is a necessity.
Premium Price, Exclusive Appeal, and Who It’s For
Of course, there’s one big thing that might make a lot of riders hesitate: the price. A Heroes can cost as much as €10,090 (around $11,700, depending on the exchange rates). That’s a significant investment! We’re talking about a price that’s comparable to some high-end performance bikes used by professional athletes.
For many potential buyers, that alone could be a dealbreaker, and honestly, it makes sense. This isn’t just a budget commuter; it’s a luxury, handcrafted bike aimed at a specific audience that appreciates design, exclusivity, and fine craftsmanship.
HeritageBike does offer leasing options, making it easier to spread the cost over time. They put a strong emphasis on the idea of becoming part of a select community of owners who appreciate the brand’s philosophy. It’s a bit like buying a boutique motorcycle or a designer watch because you are paying for more than just the practical use.
They also showcase various Heroes models on their social media, giving buyers some great ideas for customization. That personal touch really enhances the premium feel of the brand.
So, the big question is: would you actually buy one?
If you’re just after an affordable way to get around, then probably not. But if you’re someone who loves unique design, quality craftsmanship, and a bike that really stands out and you have the budget for it, then the Heroes is hard to resist.
It’s the kind of e-bike that catches eyes, starts conversations, and feels special every time you ride it. In a world full of similar e-bikes, the Heroes proves that personality still matters. For some riders, that uniqueness is worth every penny.