Der neue Fritz

About

If you have been following the electric scooter scene in Europe, particularly in Germany, you know that the market is split into two distinct categories: the ultra-portable, often flimsy toys, and the serious, heavy-duty machines designed for genuine transportation. The TRITTBRETT Der neue Fritz (The New Fritz) firmly plants its flag in the latter territory, but with a charming twist. Trittbrett, a company hailing from the Ruhr area in Germany, has built a reputation for giving their scooters human names-Paul, Kalle, Emma-and endowing them with distinct personalities. Fritz is the adventurer of the family, a scooter designed not just for the smooth tarmac of the bike lane, but for the unpredictable reality of urban and suburban commuting.

The philosophy behind "Der neue Fritz" is fascinating. Trittbrett openly admits that with this model, they ventured into new territory. Unlike some of their previous high-end engineered models that were built from the ground up in Germany, Fritz utilizes a chassis from the Far East to keep the price competitive. However-and this is a massive "however"-they didn't just slap their logo on a generic import. They gutted the electronics and installed a high-end Hobbywing controller and a motor optimized specifically for their specifications. The result is a hybrid: the cost-effectiveness of mass production combined with the precise, high-performance tuning that German riders demand.

This scooter positions itself as the "Goldilocks" solution for the heavy-duty commuter. It isn't as expensive as the ultra-premium luxury scooters, yet it offers specifications that blow the standard rental-fleet clones out of the water. With a focus on torque, suspension, and legal compliance (specifically the strict German eKFV regulations), Der neue Fritz is marketed as the ultimate companion for those who need to conquer hills, ride over cobblestones, and arrive at their destination without their teeth chattering from vibration. It is a machine built with a very specific purpose: to make the daily commute not just bearable, but genuinely fun.

Safety

When we talk about safety on an electric scooter, we have to look beyond just the brakes, though Fritz has an interesting setup there too. The scooter is equipped with dual drum brakes-one in the front and one in the rear. Now, before the disc-brake purists roll their eyes, let me explain why this is actually a brilliant choice for a daily commuter. Drum brakes are virtually maintenance-free. They are enclosed, meaning road grime, water, and dust don't get in to degrade the pads. For a rider who wants to hop on and go without fiddling with caliper alignment every weekend, this is a safety feature in itself because the brakes are always ready. Furthermore, these are paired with a separate, wear-free electronic motor brake (E-ABS) that offers recuperation. The modulation provided by the Hobbywing controller makes this electronic braking buttery smooth, preventing that jerky "thrown over the handlebars" feeling while still bringing you to a rapid halt.

Visibility is another pillar of safety where Der neue Fritz shines-quite literally. The scooter comes equipped with a 20 Lux front headlight that is integrated into the design. It is bright enough to illuminate the path ahead on unlit cycle paths, not just to make you visible to others. But the real star of the show here is the inclusion of indicators (turn signals) at both the front and the rear. In the chaotic traffic of a city, taking your hand off the handlebar to signal a turn is dangerous. Having integrated indicators allows you to keep a firm grip on the wide handlebars while clearly communicating your intentions to cars and cyclists behind you. This feature alone elevates the safety rating of the Fritz significantly.

Stability is the final component of the safety trifecta. The Fritz rides on 10-inch tubeless pneumatic tires from CST. These are "Anti-Platt" (anti-flat) tires lined with a self-healing gel layer. A blowout at 20 km/h or 22 km/h can be catastrophic, so having that extra layer of protection gives immense peace of mind. The tires feature a road profile that offers excellent grip on asphalt, even when things get a bit damp. Combined with the scooter's substantial weight and solid frame geometry, the ride feels planted and secure. You don't get the speed wobbles that plague smaller, lighter scooters; instead, Fritz tracks straight and true, inspiring confidence in both novice and experienced riders.

Performance

Let's talk about power, because this is where Der neue Fritz pulls a rabbit out of the hat. On paper, you might see "500 W motor" and think it's just average. You would be wrong. The nominal power is indeed 500 W to comply with regulations, but the peak power is a staggering 1 620 W. To put that in perspective, that is more than triple the sustained power output. What does this mean for you as a rider? It means torque. Buckets of it. When you hit a steep incline-the kind that makes rental scooters wheeze and give up-Fritz simply powers through. The manufacturer claims a climbing ability of roughly 35%, and community tests confirm that this machine eats hills for breakfast.

The secret weapon delivering this performance is the Hobbywing controller. In the world of electric mobility, Hobbywing is synonymous with precision and reliability. Trittbrett's decision to use this specific controller means that the acceleration curve is perfectly tuned. It's not twitchy or aggressive in a way that scares you, but it is immediate and forceful. When you press that thumb throttle, the response is instantaneous. The scooter accelerates up to its top speed (usually capped at 22 km/h for the German market to maximize the legal tolerance) with authority. You aren't waiting for it to build up momentum; you are just gone.

It is also worth noting the "feel" of the motor. Because it is a 48 V system, the power delivery feels robust throughout the battery cycle. Some 36 V scooters start to feel sluggish once the battery drops below 50%, but the Fritz maintains its pep much longer. Whether you are a heavier rider (and it supports up to 140 kg!) or you are carrying a heavy backpack, the motor doesn't complain. The combination of the high-torque motor and the refined controller creates a ride experience that feels premium and powerful, far exceeding what the "500 W" label would suggest.

Design

Aesthetically, TRITTBRETT Der neue Fritz strikes a balance between industrial ruggedness and modern sleekness. Available typically in a Gunmetal Grey or Matte Black, it avoids the toy-like neon colors of cheaper alternatives. The frame is chunky and substantial, communicating durability immediately. The welding looks solid, and the cable management is generally tidy, with many cables routed internally to prevent snagging. It looks like a tool meant for a job, not a gadget meant for a playground. The deck is spacious, covered in a high-grip rubber mat that features the Trittbrett logo, ensuring your feet stay planted even in wet conditions.

One of the most critical design elements of any portable vehicle is the folding mechanism. Trittbrett has utilized a robust claw-system that locks the stem into place with a reassuring "clunk." In the updated versions (often referred to as Fritz 2.0), they have added an additional safety pin/hook to ensure there is absolutely no play in the stem. This addresses the dreaded "stem wobble" that plagues many scooters after a few months of use. When folded, the hook on the handlebars latches onto the rear fender (which has been reinforced in newer models to handle the stress), allowing you to pick up the scooter, although its weight makes this a workout.

The cockpit is clean and functional. You have a centrally mounted LED display that is bright enough to read in daylight, showing your speed, battery level, and ride mode. The handlebars are notably wide at roughly 70 cm. This is a deliberate design choice that vastly improves handling stability. Narrow handlebars make steering twitchy; wide ones give you leverage and control. The thumb throttle is ergonomic, preventing hand fatigue on longer rides, and the brake levers are solid metal, not flimsy plastic. Every touchpoint on the scooter feels designed for longevity.

Comfort

If there is one word that appears in almost every review of Der neue Fritz, it is "trampoline." This is the metaphor Trittbrett uses to describe the suspension system, and it is surprisingly accurate. The scooter features a dual suspension setup-spring suspension in both the front and the rear. Unlike the stiff, barely-there suspension found on some competitors, the springs on the Fritz have significant travel. When you stand on the deck and bounce, you can feel the machine compressing and rebounding. This active suspension works wonders on cobblestones, gravel paths, and the inevitable potholes of city streets.

The comfort is further enhanced by the 10-inch pneumatic tires. Solid tires might never go flat, but they transmit every single vibration into your knees and spine. The air-filled tires on the Fritz act as the first line of defense against road vibration, soaking up the high-frequency buzz of rough asphalt. When you combine the pneumatic tires with the front and rear swingarm suspension, you get a "floating" sensation. You don't have to constantly scan the road for cracks to avoid; you can simply ride over them. For commuters who ride 10 km or more a day, this difference in ride quality is the difference between arriving at work refreshed or arriving with an aching back.

The riding stance also contributes to the overall comfort. Because the handlebars are non-adjustable in height but set at a comfortable level for the average European adult, and the deck is long enough to change your foot position, you don't feel cramped. You can switch from a side-by-side stance to a skateboard stance easily. The wide handlebars allow you to keep your chest open and your arms relaxed, rather than tucked in tight. Even for taller riders, the Fritz offers a geometry that feels natural and unconstrained, making long rides of 45 minutes or more perfectly pleasant.

Range

Range anxiety is the enemy of the e-scooter enthusiast, and TRITTBRETT Der neue Fritz tackles this with two battery options. You can choose between the 13,5 Ah version (approx. 648 Wh) or the massive 18 Ah version (approx. 864 Wh). The manufacturer claims a range of up to 60 km for the smaller battery and up to 80 km for the larger one. Now, as a seasoned journalist, I always advise taking manufacturer claims with a grain of salt-these are usually tested with a lightweight rider on a flat indoor track at low speeds. However, the community feedback on the Fritz's range is surprisingly positive.

In real-world conditions-meaning a rider weighing around 85 kg, riding at full speed (22 km/h), with some hills and stop-and-go traffic-users are reporting impressive numbers. The 18 Ah version consistently delivers between 50 km and 60 km of actual, usable range. The smaller 13,5 Ah version generally manages a solid 35 km to 45 km under similar stress. This is exceptional for a scooter in this class. It means that for most urban commuters, you might only need to charge the scooter once or twice a week, rather than every single night.

Charging is handled via a 3 A charger, which is faster than the standard 2 A bricks often supplied with scooters. A full charge takes roughly 5 to 6 hours depending on the battery size. This is perfectly acceptable for an overnight charge or even a top-up during a workday. The 48 V system is efficient, and the Hobbywing controller manages energy consumption intelligently, ensuring that you don't experience a massive voltage sag (and loss of speed) until the battery is nearly depleted. You get full power for almost the entire duration of the ride.

Use and Practicality

While Der neue Fritz excels in riding dynamics, its practicality comes with a caveat: weight. Weighing in at approximately 26 kg to 27 kg, this is not a "last mile" scooter that you casually fold up and carry onto a crowded bus or carry up three flights of stairs to your apartment. It is a vehicle. If you live in a building without an elevator, this scooter might be a dealbreaker unless you have a ground-floor storage room. The weight is the trade-off for the robust frame, the dual suspension, and the large battery. You have to decide if that trade-off is worth it for your lifestyle.

However, if you don't need to lift it often, the Fritz is incredibly practical. The folding mechanism is quick and easy to use, collapsing the stem in seconds. Once folded, it fits into the trunk of a standard car (though it might be a tight squeeze in a compact car due to the wide handlebars). The IP65 water resistance rating is a huge practical bonus. It means the scooter is dust-tight and protected against water jets from any angle. While you shouldn't submerge it, riding in the rain or through puddles is generally fine, which is essential for a daily commuter in Northern Europe where the weather is unpredictable.

The integration of the Trittbrett App adds another layer of utility. Through the app, you can check precise battery stats, update firmware, and even lock the motor electronically. While an electronic lock shouldn't replace a physical chain lock, it's a nice deterrent for quick stops at a bakery. The kickstand has also been a point of discussion; early models had a flimsy stand, but the "New Fritz" (2.0) comes with a significantly reinforced side stand that holds the heavy scooter stable, even on slightly uneven ground. These small details show that Trittbrett is thinking about how the scooter is actually used day-to-day.

General Assessment

Overall, the reception of TRITTBRETT Der neue Fritz in the enthusiast community has been overwhelmingly positive, bordering on affectionate. It occupies a sweet spot that was previously underserved: the reliable, high-performance, legal mid-range. Owners frequently praise it as a "tank" that just keeps going. The combination of the Hobbywing controller's finesse and the brute force of the motor makes it a joy to ride. It doesn't feel like a toy; it feels like a legitimate piece of automotive engineering.

That isn't to say it's perfect. The community has been vocal about teething issues with the first generation (rattling fenders, weak kickstands), but they have been equally vocal about praising Trittbrett's response. The brand listened and released updated versions (often called Fritz 2.0) that addressed these specific complaints. This responsiveness has built a lot of trust. The consensus is that while you pay a bit of a premium compared to a generic import, the support, the availability of spare parts, and the ride quality justify the price tag.

For many, the Fritz has become the benchmark for what a legal German commuter scooter should be. It proves that you don't need to sacrifice comfort or power just to stay within the legal speed limits. It is a machine that invites you to take the long way home, simply because the ride is so pleasant. It has successfully transitioned from being "just another import" to a respected model with its own identity and loyal following.

Who Is This Scooter For?

The Heavy-Duty Commuter: If you weigh over 100 kg, many standard scooters will struggle to move you effectively, especially uphill. With a max payload of 140 kg and that massive peak power, Fritz is one of the best choices for heavier riders who don't want to feel like they are breaking their vehicle.

The Hill Dweller: If your commute involves steep inclines that would force you to kick-assist a lesser scooter, the Fritz is for you. It is designed specifically to conquer gradients without losing momentum. If you live in a hilly city like Stuttgart or San Francisco, this torque is non-negotiable.

The Comfort Seeker: If your local roads are paved with cobblestones, riddled with potholes, or you need to traverse gravel paths, the dual suspension and pneumatic tires make Fritz the ideal choice. It is for the rider who values their spine and joints and wants a plush, "trampoline-like" experience.

Who should avoid it? If you are a multi-modal commuter who needs to carry a scooter onto a train during rush hour, or carry it up to a 4th-floor walk-up apartment, the 27 kg weight will be a nightmare. This is not a portable, lightweight solution. Similarly, if you are looking for a high-speed racing scooter for private land, the Fritz's speed limiter (unless modified, which voids legality) might feel restrictive.

Community Feedback - Pros

• Hill Climbing Ability: Consistently praised as one of the best single-motor climbers on the market.
• Suspension Comfort: The "trampoline" effect is real; riders love how it smooths out rough terrain.
• Hobbywing Controller: Users love the precise, smooth control over acceleration and braking.
• Build Quality: Described as robust, solid, and rattle-free (especially the 2.0 version).
• High Payload: The 140 kg weight limit is a huge plus for larger riders.
• Lighting System: The 20 Lux headlight and standard indicators are highly valued for safety.
• Battery Range: The 18 Ah version delivers genuine long-distance capability.
• Maintenance-Free Brakes: The drum brakes are seen as a "set and forget" benefit for daily use.
• Customer Support: Trittbrett is noted for being responsive and helpful with parts and service.
• Water Resistance: IP65 rating gives riders confidence in bad weather.

The community is most vocal about the power-to-comfort ratio. Usually, you get a powerful scooter that is stiff, or a comfortable scooter that is weak. Fritz owners consistently rave about having the best of both worlds: a scooter that can fly up a hill and then float over the cobblestones at the top. The addition of indicators in the newer models has also been highlighted as a major "quality of life" improvement that makes riding in traffic significantly less stressful.

Community Feedback - Cons

• Weight: At 26-27 kg, it is universally acknowledged as heavy and difficult to carry.
• Kick-Start Only: Some users find the lack of a "zero-start" (throttle from standstill) annoying, though it is a safety feature.
• Drum Brake Feel: Enthusiasts used to hydraulic discs find the drum brakes feel a bit "spongy," even if they work well.
• Rear Fender Rattle: A common complaint on the V1.0 model, though largely fixed in V2.0.
• Size: It is bulky; it takes up a lot of space in a hallway or trunk.
• App Connectivity: Some users report occasional bugs or connection issues with the Trittbrett app.
• Charging Port Position: Some find the placement slightly awkward or the rubber cover fiddly.
• Speed Cap: While legal, some international users wish it could go faster than 22 km/h given the motor's power.

The most significant complaint is, without a doubt, the weight. It is the one factor that causes potential buyers to hesitate or owners to sell. If you underestimate how heavy 27 kg is, you will regret it the first time the elevator is broken. However, most owners accept this as the necessary price for the durability and range. The brake feel is the second most discussed "con," but usually, riders adjust to the modulation of the drum brakes within a few days.

Value for Money

At a price point generally ranging between 900 € and 1 300 € (depending on the battery size and current sales), the TRITTBRETT Der neue Fritz sits in the upper mid-range of the market. Is it worth it? The consensus is a resounding yes. When you compare it to cheaper scooters in the 500 € range, the difference in build quality, suspension, and hill-climbing power is night and day. You are paying for components that last, rather than disposable tech.

When compared to similarly priced competitors, Fritz holds its own very well. It might lack the dual motors of some import models available at this price, but it offers local support, ABE certification (crucial in Germany), and a level of refinement in the controller tuning that generic brands often miss. The 18 Ah battery version, in particular, offers excellent value for money regarding range-per-euro. You are buying a reliable vehicle, not a toy, and for a daily commuter replacing a car or public transport, the return on investment is high.

About the Brand

TRITTBRETT is a German company based in Mülheim an der Ruhr. They entered the market with a clear mission: to create e-scooters that are honest, high-quality, and fun. They have cultivated a unique brand identity by personifying their scooters with names like Kalle, Emma, Paul, and Fritz. This quirky marketing strategy has helped them stand out in a crowded market of alphanumeric model names.

But beyond the marketing, Trittbrett has earned a reputation for listening to their community. They are active in forums and social media, and they actually implement feedback into their product revisions-as seen with the updates from Fritz 1.0 to 2.0. They are known for good spare parts availability, which is a critical factor for long-term ownership. If you break a fender or wear out a tire, you can actually get a replacement from them, which isn't always true for drop-shipped brands. They represent a blend of German quality control with global manufacturing smarts.

Specifications

• Model: TRITTBRETT Der neue Fritz
• Motor Power (Rated): 500 W
• Motor Power (Peak): 1 620 W
• Battery: 48 V 13,5 Ah (648 Wh) OR 18 Ah (864 Wh)
• Max Range: 60 km (13,5 Ah) / 80 km (18 Ah)
• Top Speed: 20 km/h (typically runs at 22 km/h)
• Weight: 26,0 kg - 26,7 kg
• Max Load: 140 kg
• Tires: 10-inch CST Tubeless Pneumatic with Anti-Flat Gel
• Brakes: Front & Rear Drum Brakes + Electronic Motor Brake (E-ABS)
• Suspension: Dual Spring Suspension (Front & Rear)
• Charging Time: 5 - 6 hours
• Water Resistance: IP65
• Dimensions (Unfolded): 125 x 70 x 130 cm
• Price: Approx. 919 € - 1 299 € (depending on model)

Known Alternatives

If the Fritz doesn't sound like the perfect fit for you-perhaps it's too heavy, or you prefer a different braking style-there are several other excellent scooters in this category worth considering. The market for premium commuters is competitive, and looking at the alternatives can help you confirm if the Fritz is truly the right choice for your specific needs.

One strong contender is the APOLLO Air 2022. The Apollo Air is often praised for its incredible ride quality, similar to the Fritz, but in a slightly lighter and more modern-looking package. It features a stunning design and excellent app integration. While it might not have the same raw brute force for climbing the steepest hills as the Fritz, it is a more refined option for riders who want style and comfort in a slightly more manageable weight class.

For those who want even more performance and technology, the APOLLO Go is a fantastic alternative. It brings dual-motor performance to a compact form factor. If the single motor of the Fritz worries you (though it shouldn't), the Apollo Go offers that dual-motor traction and acceleration. It is a tech-forward scooter that appeals to riders who want the latest features and a futuristic aesthetic.

Another rugged option to look at is the SPLACH Thunder 10. This scooter often competes in the "bang for your buck" category, offering high speed and good suspension at a competitive price point. It leans more towards the "fun/off-road" vibe compared to the Fritz's "serious commuter" demeanor. Additionally, for those in Europe, the MOOVI Pro S Comfort offers a different approach to the last-mile problem with a unique load-carrying system, though it lacks the sheer power of the Fritz. Finally, the URBANGLIDE ALL ROAD 6 2x2 is another dual-motor beast that offers great traction for rougher terrain, serving as a direct competitor for those looking to ride off the beaten path.