Riese & Müller Charger Range

Charger5 build options explained

All Charger5 and Charger5 Mixte models share the same core platform: a stiff, confidence-inspiring frame, suspension fork and seatpost, excellent lighting, and serious carrying capacity.

The real choice comes down to how you want the bike to shift, how much maintenance you want, and whether you want Bosch or Pinion power.

Charger5 Touring (Bosch)

This is the most familiar-feeling Charger5. If you’ve ridden bikes all your life, this one will feel immediately intuitive.

You get a classic derailleur drivetrain with a wide gear range, paired with Bosch’s smart system. Shifting is crisp, efficient, and easy to service anywhere. It’s a great all-rounder for commuting, fitness riding, and longer weekend trips.

Best for riders who want a traditional bike feel with modern e-bike power.

Charger5 Vario (Bosch)

The Vario build is all about smoothness and simplicity. Instead of stepped gears, it uses a continuously variable internal hub, so you can fine-tune your cadence exactly how you like it.

You can shift at a standstill, under load, or while climbing, and the belt drive keeps things clean, quiet, and low maintenance. No chain lube, no gritty drivetrain after winter riding.

Best for daily commuting and year-round riding where ease and reliability matter more than mechanical feel.

Charger5 Rohloff (Bosch)

This is the premium Bosch option. The Rohloff E-14 hub is legendary for durability and precision, and it’s especially well suited to high torque e-bike use.

Electronic shifting means perfectly timed gear changes, even under load, and the belt drive keeps maintenance to an absolute minimum. It’s built for riders who rack up serious kilometres and want a drivetrain that will last for years.

Best for long-distance riders, touring cyclists, and anyone who wants the toughest, most refined Bosch setup.

Charger5 Pinion (MGU)

This is where things get really interesting. Instead of a mid-drive motor plus gears, the Pinion MGU combines motor and gearbox into one sealed unit at the crank.

The result is exceptional balance, ultra-clean drivetrain lines, and dramatically reduced maintenance. No rear derailleur, no cassette, no hub gears. Shifting is precise and protected from the elements, and belt drive is standard.

It feels incredibly solid and composed, especially when carrying loads or riding rougher roads.

Best for riders who want cutting-edge tech, minimal servicing, and a very refined, future-proof e-bike experience.

Charger5 Mixte builds

Every build above is also available in the Charger5 Mixte frame.

The difference isn’t performance — it’s access.

The lowered top tube makes getting on and off easier, especially if you’re riding in everyday clothes, carrying gear, or mounting child seats.

Ride feel, handling, and build options stay the same.

Best for riders who value convenience and confidence without sacrificing performance.