Kalkhoff E-Bike Model Names Explained: The Complete Guide

If you have ever looked at a Kalkhoff model name — something like Kalkhoff K26 Entice 5+ Move Wave — and wondered what each part means, this guide is for you. Kalkhoff uses a structured four-part naming system that tells you exactly what the bike is designed for, the quality tier of its components, how it is powered, and what accessories are included. Once you understand the system, you can decode any model in the range in seconds.

At Electric Bikes Brisbane, we have been Queensland's premium Kalkhoff dealer since 2015. This guide reflects the current 2026 range ("K26") available in Australia.

For help choosing the right Kalkhoff for your riding style, see our Kalkhoff Electric Bikes Buyer's Guide. To browse the full current range, visit our Kalkhoff Electric Bikes collection.

How the Kalkhoff Naming System Works

A Kalkhoff model name has four parts, each separated by a space or number. Take this example:

Entice 5+ Move Wave

•  • Entice = Model (primary purpose and riding style)
•  • 5+ = Level (component quality and specification tier)
•  • Move = Trim (accessories and equipment package)
•  • Wave = Frame style

Each part is explained in full below.

Part 1 — The Model Name (Primary Purpose)

The first word in every Kalkhoff name tells you the bike's style and primary riding environment. In the 2026 Australian range, there are three model families.

Endeavour — E-Trekking and Commuting

The Endeavour is Kalkhoff's classic e-trekking and touring model, designed primarily for asphalt roads, commuting, and long-distance travel. It has smooth road-oriented tyres and a comfortable, upright-but-capable riding position. The Endeavour is the natural choice for daily commuters, bikeway riders, and riders planning long-distance touring on sealed or compacted surfaces.

Entice — All-Terrain E-Trekking

The Entice is built for all-terrain capability — gravel paths, rail trails, creek crossings and light off-road riding — while remaining fully capable as an everyday commuter. It has a more off-road-oriented tyre tread and a slightly sportier geometry than the Endeavour, though still upright and comfortable. The Entice is the most versatile model in the range and our most popular Kalkhoff at EBB. It is the natural choice for Brisbane Valley Rail Trail riders, weekend adventurers, and anyone who wants one bike that handles everything.

Image — Urban Comfort

The Image is Kalkhoff's purely urban model. It features a Dutch-style upright riding position, a suspension seatpost for smoothing out Brisbane's rougher roads, internal gearing for low-maintenance city riding, and a clean, integrated look. If you are commuting on bikeways, riding around the inner city, or want a comfortable everyday bike that requires minimal maintenance, the Image is where to start.

Kalkhoff K26 Endeavour 3 Move Wave EBike, Silver

$4,999

Kalkhoff K26 Entice 3 Excite Belt Wave EBike, Grey

$6,499

Kalkhoff K26 Image 5+ Advance Wave EBike, Silver

$7,999

Part 2 — The Level Number (Component Quality)

The number in the model name tells you the specification and quality tier of the frame, motor, and integrated features. Higher numbers mean better components, larger batteries, and more premium equipment.

Level 1 — Entry Level

German engineering and a Bosch motor at an accessible entry price. Level 1 models feature an external powerpack-style battery (removable without tools) and reliable mid-range components. These are serious everyday e-bikes — not entry-level compromises. The Kalkhoff Endeavour 1 was rated #4 in the 2025 CHOICE Magazine best e-bikes test and earned the CHOICE Recommended rating.

Level 3 — Mid-Range

The gateway to the fully integrated battery — the clean, seamless look where the battery sits invisibly inside the frame. Level 3 is the most popular choice at EBB for everyday Brisbane riders. Competitively priced with a complete accessories package and reliable performance for commuting and light touring.

Level 5 and 5+ — Premium

Something genuinely special in the build. Level 5+ models typically include one or more of: Gates carbon belt drive with Enviolo internal gearing (ultra-low maintenance), a larger 800Wh battery for extended range, a heavy-duty system weight rating of 170kg or more, and premium comfort accessories including suspension seatpost or dropper post. If any of those features matter to you, Level 5+ is the right choice.

Level 7 and 7+ — Top of Range

The flagship level. Level 7+ models feature the highest-performing Bosch motors, dual suspension, top-tier component specifications, and — on the Entice 7+ ABS — electronic ABS braking. The 2026 Entice 7+ ABS placed Silver at the Focus eBike Design Award and is Kalkhoff's most capable all-terrain touring model. Ideal for serious multi-day riders and adventurous off-road exploration.

Level L — Lightweight

The "L" designates the lightweight platform. Level L models are powered by the Bosch SX motor — a lighter, more compact system that gives a more natural, nimble cycling feel. These bikes weigh significantly less than standard-platform Kalkhoffs and are ideal for riders who want the quality of the Kalkhoff platform in a lighter, more agile package. See our Lightweight Electric Bikes collection for the full L-series range.

Level C — Compact

The "C" designates the compact platform. Level C models use 20-inch wheels and are designed for urban riders who need easy storage — apartment living, van travel, tight spaces. The Endeavour C and Image C are among the most practical urban e-bikes in the current range, and both carry a 170kg system weight rating.

Kalkhoff K26 Image L Excite Wave EBike, Polarblue

$5,999

Kalkhoff K26 Image C.B Adv+ Belt EBike

$5,999

Kalkhoff K26 Endeavour 3 Move Gents EBike, Silver

$4,999

Part 3 — The Drive System Code (Motor Manufacturer)

Kalkhoff codes the drive system manufacturer using a letter that appears between the level number and the trim word:

•  • B = Bosch
•  • I = Impulse (Kalkhoff's proprietary motor — no longer in production)

In Australia, all Kalkhoff e-bikes have been exclusively Bosch-powered since 2022. You will not find an "I" model in current Australian stock. The drive system code appears in older model names (e.g. Endeavour 1.B Move) but is being phased out of the K26 naming convention — current K26 models drop the ".B" from the written name as Bosch is now assumed.

For a full breakdown of which Bosch motor system appears at each Kalkhoff level, and how to match the right motor to your riding style, see our Bosch eBike Brisbane Guide.

Part 4 — The Trim Level          (Equipment Package)

The final word in the model name refers to the specific equipment package — the accessories, lighting, and finish included at that trim level within the series:

•  • Move — The entry specification within that series. Complete, practical, and well-equipped for everyday riding.
•  • Advance — A step up from Move, typically featuring upgraded components, lighting, or comfort accessories.
•  • Excite — The top-tier equipment package. Premium parts, premium finish, the best accessories available at that level.
•  • Season — A seasonal variant that typically includes a curated accessories package suited to that model year's focus.
•  • BELT — Indicates a belt drive variant. When "BELT" appears in the name, the bike uses a Gates carbon belt drive with Enviolo internal gearing instead of a chain drivetrain. This means near-zero maintenance on the drivetrain for the life of the bike.
•  • ABS — Indicates the model includes Bosch ABS electronic anti-lock braking. Currently available on the Entice 7+ ABS.

Frame Styles — What the Last Word Tells You

Many models come in more than one frame style. The frame style usually appears as the last modifier in the full model name:

•  • DI (Diamond) — The traditional crossbar frame, also called the "gents frame." Higher top tube, classic bicycle silhouette.
•  • Wave or Comfort — A deep step-through frame, also listed as "stepthrough" in some model names. Much easier to mount and dismount — preferred by riders who want easy access, riders returning to cycling, and shorter riders. Many Kalkhoff models at EBB come in Wave as standard.

When in doubt, come in for a test ride. We will fit you to the right frame style before you commit — the difference in comfort and confidence between a well-fitted Wave and Diamond frame is significant for many riders.

Putting It All Together — Reading a Full Model Name

Here are three examples from the 2026 range to show the system in action:

The 2026 Kalkhoff K26 Range in Australia

The 2026 K26 range is the most focused and premium Kalkhoff lineup ever available in Australia. Key highlights:

•  • All models use Bosch Smart System motors (Performance Line, Performance PX, or Performance Line CX Gen 5)
•  • Every level now includes at least one belt drive option
•  • Dual suspension introduced for the first time (Entice 7+ and Entice 7+ ABS)
•  • New lightweight L-series models with front suspension (Entice L Season, Image L Excite BELT)
•  • Multiple 170kg+ rated step-through models across the range

For full model specifications, pricing, and availability, see our 2026 Kalkhoff Range Guide or visit our Kalkhoff Electric Bikes collection.

Frequently Asked Questions — Kalkhoff Model Names

What does the number in a Kalkhoff model name mean?

The number indicates the specification level of the bike — its component quality, battery integration, and feature tier. Level 1 is entry level with an external battery. Level 3 is mid-range with a fully integrated battery. Level 5+ is premium with belt drive, larger battery, and heavier-duty rating. Level 7+ is top of range with the best Bosch motor, dual suspension, and optional ABS braking. Level L is the lightweight Bosch SX platform. Level C is the compact 20-inch wheel urban platform.

What is the difference between Move, Advance, and Excite on a Kalkhoff?

These are the trim levels — the equipment package within a given model and level. Move is the entry specification: complete, practical, and well-equipped. Advance is a step up with upgraded components or lighting. Excite is the top-tier package with premium parts and finish. BELT in the name indicates a Gates carbon belt drive model. ABS indicates electronic anti-lock braking.

What does "Wave" mean in a Kalkhoff model name?

Wave (or Comfort, or stepthrough) refers to the frame style — a deep step-through or low step-over frame that is much easier to mount and dismount than a traditional crossbar (Diamond or DI) frame. Many EBB customers prefer the Wave frame, especially riders returning to cycling or those with hip or knee concerns. Both frame styles are available across most Kalkhoff families.

What does the "B" mean in a Kalkhoff model name?

The "B" code stands for Bosch — it indicates the bike uses a Bosch motor system. In older model names (e.g. Endeavour 1.B Move) the drive system code was included as a separate part of the name. In the current K26 range, the ".B" code is being phased out as all Australian Kalkhoff models have been exclusively Bosch-powered since 2022.

What is a Level L Kalkhoff?

Level L designates the Lightweight platform — models powered by the Bosch SX motor. The SX motor is lighter and more compact than the Performance Line system, giving a more natural, nimble cycling feel. Level L bikes weigh significantly less than standard-platform Kalkhoffs. They are ideal for riders who want to feel more like they are "just cycling" with electric assist rather than riding a powerful e-bike. See our Lightweight Electric Bikes collection.

What does K26 mean?

K26 refers to the current 2026 Kalkhoff generation platform — "K" for Kalkhoff, "26" for the model year. If you see "K26" in a model name or listing, it confirms you are looking at a 2026 model year bike.

Which Kalkhoff model is right for me?

Start with the model family: Entice for all-terrain and rail trail riding, Endeavour for commuting and touring, Image for urban comfort. Then choose your level based on budget and whether belt drive, extended range, or a higher weight rating matters to you. For a full decision guide, see our Kalkhoff Electric Bikes Buyer's Guide or book a test ride at our Milton store — we will help you find the right fit in person.

Ready to Find Your Kalkhoff?

Browse the full current Kalkhoff range at our Kalkhoff Electric Bikes collection, read our Kalkhoff Buyer's Guide to match the right model to your riding style, or book a test ride at our Milton showroom at 26 Douglas St. Tuesday to Saturday.