Sporty Dutch Bike
The Chamonix is considered to be the ‘sporty’ model in Gazelle’s range of Dutch city bikes. It has lightweight rims and tyres, which give the wheels a lower rotational-mass, meaning that they can accelerate and decelerate quickly. This has a noticeable effect on the speed of the bike, and the Chamonix C8 is definitely nippier than other city models like the CityGo or the Esprit.
Top of the Range Technology
As the Chamonix C8 is at the upper end of Gazelle’s range, it boasts nice features like headtube and seatpost suspension, as well as a very bright dynamo headlamp. One of the most discrete features of the bike is hidden inside the chaincase, wherein a chain-tensioner sits concealed. This is quite a revolutionary design innovation, and Gazelle have done well to incorporate it into the chaincase and thus not compromise the weatherproof-aspect of the bike. The chain-tensioner takes up slack as the chain inevitably stretches, and this removes one of the few maintenance requirements from an already very low-maintenance bike.
Comfortable and Practical
The Chamonix C8 might be considered to be the sporty model in Gazelle’s range, but that isn’t to say it lacks any of the comfort of an Orange, or the utility of a CityGo. It still has a Yepp Easy-Fit adapter in the rear rack, as well as the full length mudguards, light set, integrated lock, and wide kickstand that you’d expect as standard on any quality Dutch bike. In comparison with the C7, the C8 only comes in matte black, it has upgraded brakes, and the substantially larger range of the Nexus 8-speed gear hub. The Chamonix C8 is a solid choice for the commuter or parent who needs a versatile and reliable all-rounder city bike.