The Kuma R1 is a 21kg city e-bike for everyday commuting, and the lightest hybrid in our range. A Bafang front hub motor, Gates carbon belt, Shimano Nexus 3-speed hub and Tektro hydraulic brakes keep it simple and low maintenance, and the 504Wh Samsung battery gives up to 100km per charge. Designed in Ireland, made in Europe. €1,799 and eligible for the bike to work scheme.
Who the R1 is for
- City commuters on flatter or moderately hilly routes
- Riders who want the lightest, best-value Kuma hybrid
- Riders from 167cm to 210cm (Medium and Large frames)
Design & Frame
- Lightweight 21kg smooth-welded 6061 aluminium frame
- Integrated full colour display (handlebar or in-frame) with front and rear LED lighting
Battery & Charging
- 504Wh Samsung battery, up to 100km per charge
- Removable and lockable, so you can charge it indoors
- Full charge in 2.5–3.5 hours
Drive & Performance
- Lightweight Bafang G311 front hub motor
- Shimano Nexus 3-speed internal hub: gears sealed away from the weather
- Gates carbon belt drive, rated for over 30,000km with no oil needed
- Tektro M275 hydraulic disc brakes
Included
- Custom front and rear racks, mudguards and kickstand
Warranty
- 2 years on motor and battery, 5 years on the frame
Specifications
| Motor | Bafang G311 front hub motor, 250W (EU legal limit), 35Nm torque |
| Pedal assist | 5 levels |
| Assisted top speed | 25 km/h (15.5 mph), EU legal limit |
| Battery | Samsung lithium-ion, 36V 14Ah (504Wh) |
| Max range | Up to 100km (on assist level 1, depends on pace, rider weight and terrain) |
| Charge time | 2.5–3.5 hours |
| Climbing angle | Up to 25 degrees (average rider weight) |
| Display | Multi-function LCD handlebar display or in-frame display |
| Readouts | Speed, ODO/trip distance, battery level, assist level, headlight on/off |
| Controller | Bafang |
| Frame | Kuma 6061 aluminium with removable battery |
| Drive | Gates carbon belt |
| Gearing | Shimano Nexus 3-speed internal hub |
| Brakes | Tektro M275 hydraulic disc, front and rear |
| Tyres | Kenda e-bike specific, 700x40C |
| Wheels | 700c double walled |
| Weight | 21kg fully equipped |
| Max total weight | 115kg (rider plus luggage) |
| Optional extras | Additional battery, pannier bags, phone holders |
Sizing
- Medium (54cm): 167cm – 182cm (5'5" – 6')
- Large (58cm): 175cm – 210cm (5'9" – 6'5")
R1 questions
Can I buy the R1 on the bike to work scheme?
Yes. The scheme covers €1,500 towards an e-bike, so on a €1,799 R1 you pay the €299 balance yourself and the rest comes out of gross salary — a saving of up to 52% on the covered portion.
How far will the R1 really go on a charge?
Up to 100km is measured on assist level 1 at a steady pace on flat ground. On a hilly commute, on higher assist, in winter, plan for roughly half that. Tell us your route in store and we'll give you a straight figure for it.
Will the R1 handle hills?
Its 35Nm front hub motor is comfortable on everyday city gradients and will climb up to about 25 degrees. If your route has steep or repeated climbs, the mid-drive M1 (80Nm) or X0 (90Nm) is the better bike — see the hybrid comparison.
How much maintenance does it need?
Very little. The Gates carbon belt is rated for over 30,000km and never needs oiling, and the Shimano Nexus 3-speed hub is sealed, so there's no derailleur to adjust. First service within 6 weeks or 300km, then annually.
Which size should I pick?
Medium (54cm) suits riders 167–182cm, Large (58cm) suits 175–210cm. If you're between the two, come and ride both.
Can I test ride one?
Yes, at Clonskeagh, Rathgar (Bear Cycles), Cork and Galway. Book a test ride. More answers on our e-bike FAQs page.
