E-bike Fiido C11 in the test: low entry with big battery for 899 euros

Fiido is already an old acquaintance. Several e-bikes from the Chinese manufacturer have already impressed us in tests with their very good price-performance ratio. The Fiido M1 (test report) has already impressed in 2020 with its martial look, large battery and good suspension. The Fiido C21 (test report) is now only available 999 euros goes in the sporty direction and impresses us with its particularly natural driving behavior thanks to its torque sensor. The Fiido Titan (test report) proves to be a real all-rounder for city and off-road thanks to its powerful engine, large tires and high payload.

Fiido offers all this at comparatively affordable prices – but with one condition: none of Fiido’s bikes are yet approved for German roads. Unfortunately, this also applies to the Fiido C11, the latest member in the family. Reasons: it is too easy to increase the maximum speed, there is an illegal electric horn, a throttle lever and a motor that is too powerful at 500 W.

Fiido C11 price is sourced directly from the manufacturer 899 euros,

The Fiido C11 comes very well and securely packaged. All the necessary tools for final assembly are included. All you have to do is put the front wheel on, screw on the handlebars, add the pedals and attach the front lamp and mudguards. It’s all quite simple, only attaching the mudguards is not entirely self-explanatory – the instructions can help here.

After assembly, all screws should be tightened and the tires inflated. Then your first ride will not be hindered – we strongly recommend wearing a helmet. We feature smart models with indicator, emergency call and music in our top 5 list: Best smart bicycle helmets.

Visually, the Fiido C11 is a real eye-catcher. It is available in white and a stunning emerald blue. We test the blue version with a very beautiful metallic finish. The only visual point of criticism: the cable management on the handlebar looks cluttered.

Overall, the workmanship makes a good first impression. As is often the case with very inexpensive e-bikes, only simple components are used here, which are potentially more susceptible to problems and wear than higher quality components. In our case, for example, the front brake is rubbing. It’s better after a little bending.

At 24.5 kg, the Fiido C11 weighs quite a bit – but that’s normal for this price range and features. The maximum payload is 120 kg. This allows enough luggage space even for heavy people or those carrying luggage. The IP54 certification means protection against water splashes from all sides. So summer rain and puddles are no problem.

The Fiido C11 scores with extensive features: The robust mudguards reliably protect against water splashes. The brake light provides additional visibility. The robust luggage rack is ideal for transporting shopping or luggage weighing up to 25 kg. The low entry makes it easy for people with disabilities to climb in and out. The battery can be easily removed for charging or if there is a risk of theft. There is also an optional front luggage rack for 66 euros, which expands the transport capacity and ensures a more even weight distribution.

The slightly curved handlebars provide a comfortable grip position and can be adjusted in height. This is ergonomically advantageous and allows adjustment to different body sizes. However, the handles could be a little larger and more ergonomically shaped – this can cause pressure points on the hand on long rides.

The color display is located on the left side of the handlebar. It is easy to read even in sunlight, but it is quite small. The electric horn, which is not permitted in Germany, is also located here. An additional bell is missing and will have to be reinstalled. Practical: The USB-A port charges smartphones etc. on the go.

On the right is a simple 6-speed gearshift and throttle lever, which is not permitted in Germany. This allows speeds of up to 25 km/h – traction assist will only allow up to 6 km/h on public roads.

The best monitor lamp in the test: The Benq ScreenBar Pro beats them all

The lighting is controlled centrally via the bike computer. The front light illuminates the way beautifully and is easily adjustable. The rear taillight ensures good visibility and also lights up when braking – a useful safety feature.

When it comes to ergonomics, the Fiido C11 scores across the board: the curved and height-adjustable handlebars and the comfortable saddle ensure a comfortable seating position. This also applies to larger people. The low-entry frame makes it easy to get on and off. The front 40mm suspension fork absorbs bumps and bumps well.

The Fiido C11 is powered by a 48V motor with 500W nominal power and 55 Nm of torque. This ensures a rapid speed of 25 km/h even with a heavy load. There is a trick that can be used to remove the limit: to do this, press and hold the “M” button on the display for a few seconds. This is not allowed on public roads.

Unfortunately there is no sensitive torque sensor, just a simple cadence sensor. Disadvantage: You have to pedal by turning the crank a little before the motor starts. This means that starting off does not feel as natural as with a mid-engined e-bike. Over time you get used to it, but it can be annoying for beginners. The throttle grip offers a solution here, with it the C11 picks up speed immediately – limited to the legal speed of 6 km/h, this would also be allowed in Germany.

The hydraulic disc brakes initially require some readjustment, but then they grab properly and slow down safely.

The 500 Wh battery is beautifully integrated into the frame and can be removed using a key. This is practical for charging or anti-theft storage.

Fido quotes a maximum range of 90km – in absolutely ideal conditions: Eco mode, 21km/h average speed, flat road, 20°C, no wind and a rider weighing 75kg.

If you mainly use the motor support, you will never be able to travel 90 km. According to Fido, a fully electric range of up to 56 km is possible with an average of 23 km/h. In our test, with a load of about 80 kg, full motor support, frequent starting and braking and some hills, we achieved a good 40 km. This is a good value for an e-bike in this price range.

Fiido C11 price is sourced directly from the manufacturer 899 euros.In return, you get an e-bike equipped with surprisingly powerful technology.

The Fiido C11 offers an impressive overall package for its price: stylish looks, strong performance and a range of equipment that lacks very little – including brake lights, mudguards and a sturdy luggage rack. 899 euros Considering the technology offered, this is a great price-performance ratio.

We particularly liked the comfortable seating position due to the powerful motor, adjustable handlebars, suspension fork and low entry as well as the very good range with the 500 Wh battery.

It’s a real shame that Fiido didn’t comply with the requirements for StVZO approval for the C11. Because it would have been perfectly possible with a few small changes: remove the throttle lever and electric horn, prevent the 25km/h speed limit from being removed and use a 250W motor – the C11 would then be ready for German roads.

But no e-city bike? Then one of our other best lists will help:

As part of this article, we tested the e-bike in various scenarios such as paved bike paths, gravel field paths and steep climbs. This way, we cannot detect long-term problems that may arise after months or years of everyday use. If we find an error after our test report is published or something is pointed out by our readers, we will report it.

If you buy from a Chinese dealer, you will often pay less. However, there is a risk of poor service in the event of a warranty or guarantee. In addition, asserting consumer rights (returns, warranty) is subject to obstacles or not possible. We add here retailers with whom we have had generally good experiences.