Der neue Paul

About

If you have been following the European electric scooter scene, particularly the rigorous market in Germany, you have likely heard whispers-or perhaps loud shouts-about a machine named Paul. Yes, just "Paul." The company behind this machine, Trittbrett, has a charmingly quirky tradition of naming their high-performance vehicles after family members and friends, giving their lineup a personable, almost human feel. But do not let the friendly name fool you. "Der neue Paul" (The New Paul) is not a toy; it is a serious piece of engineering that positions itself as the "Autobahn cruiser" of the e-scooter world. Hailing from Mülheim an der Ruhr, this scooter embodies the industrial spirit of its German home: it is robust, slightly over-engineered, and built to outlast almost anything else on the bike lane.

The philosophy behind the new Paul is refreshingly simple: eliminate range anxiety and provide a tank-like build quality that can handle heavy riders and heavy usage. While many competitors chase top speeds that are illegal in many jurisdictions or slap on gimmicky RGB lights, Trittbrett has focused on the core pillars of touring: reliability, torque, and endurance. This is the scooter you buy when you are tired of fixing flat tires every week or worrying if you will make it home on a single charge. It is positioned as a premium, long-range tourer, designed specifically to meet the strict eKFV regulations in Germany while offering a ride quality that feels unconstrained.

What truly sets the new Paul apart in a crowded market is its heart. It is powered by a genuine Bosch motor. In the world of electric mobility, the name Bosch carries a weight of quality that is hard to overstate. By partnering with such an industrial giant for the powertrain and combining it with high-quality LG battery cells and a finely tuned Hobbywing controller, Trittbrett has created a machine that feels incredibly cohesive. It isn't just a collection of parts from a catalogue; it is a harmonized system designed for marathon endurance. Whether you are a heavy rider up to 150 kg or a commuter with a 40 km round trip, Paul is designed to be the steadfast companion that never complains.

Safety

When you are riding a vehicle that weighs 25 kg and shares the road with cars and cyclists, safety stops being a feature and becomes a necessity. The braking system on the new Paul is, without exaggeration, one of the finest setups available on a street-legal scooter. Trittbrett has equipped this machine with a dual hydraulic disc brake system. Unlike mechanical cable brakes, which can stretch and require constant adjustment, these hydraulic stoppers provide immediate, powerful, and buttery-smooth braking force with just a single finger. The modulation is excellent, allowing you to scrub off a little speed before a turn or perform a full emergency stop with confidence.

But the hardware is only half the story. The electronic safety systems working in the background are equally impressive. The scooter features a progressive motor brake with E-ABS (Electronic Anti-lock Braking System). When you pull the brake lever, the motor engages to help slow you down, regenerating energy back into the battery in the process. The E-ABS prevents the wheels from locking up completely, which is a lifesaver on wet leaves or slick asphalt. This combination of hydraulic bite and electronic assistance results in one of the shortest braking distances in its class. For the rider, this translates to a profound sense of security; you know that if a car door opens in front of you, you have the stopping power to react.

Visibility is another cornerstone of the Paul's safety philosophy. The scooter comes equipped with high-quality turn signals (indicators) integrated into the design. In the 2023/2024 models, these are often premium indicators that are incredibly bright, ensuring that traffic behind and in front of you knows exactly where you are going without you having to take your hands off the handlebars. The front headlight offers 30 Lux of brightness, which is decent for city riding, though night riders on unlit paths might want auxiliary lighting. Furthermore, the IP65 water resistance rating (with the motor being IP67) means that getting caught in a rain shower won't result in an electrical failure, adding another layer of operational safety for the daily commuter.

Performance

Let's talk about power. On paper, a 500 W motor might sound standard for this price bracket, but numbers can be deceiving. The Bosch motor in the rear wheel of the Paul is a torque monster. It is rated at 500 W continuous power, but it peaks at a staggering 1 200 W. This distinction is crucial. While the top speed is electronically limited to 20 km/h (or 25 km/h depending on the specific country version and local laws), the way it gets there is impressive. The acceleration is robust and confident. It doesn't jerk you off the deck, thanks to the smooth Hobbywing controller, but it pulls with a relentless force that doesn't fade as the battery drains.

The real test of performance for any electric scooter is the hill climb, and this is where the "Ruhrpott-Kraftpaket" (Ruhr area powerhouse) truly shines. With 31 Nm of torque, the Paul is often described by the community as a "mountain goat." It is rated to climb inclines of up to 30%, and user reviews consistently back this up. Where lesser scooters would slow to a crawl or require the rider to kick-assist, the Paul powers up steep bridges and garage ramps without breaking a sweat. For heavier riders, who often struggle with performance drop-off on hills, this torque-rich behavior is a game-changer. It maintains its speed tenaciously, ensuring you aren't holding up traffic on the way up.

The riding experience is further enhanced by the throttle response. The thumb throttle is responsive and linear, allowing for precise control at low speeds-perfect for navigating through pedestrians or tight spaces. There are typically two acceleration levels to choose from, allowing you to dial in the punchiness of the start. While it isn't a racing scooter designed for 60 km/h thrills, the performance within its legal limit is optimized to perfection. It feels substantial, planted, and powerful, giving the rider the sensation of driving a premium vehicle rather than riding a toy.

Design

The design language of the Trittbrett Paul is strictly "form follows function," yet the result is undeniably attractive in an industrial, utilitarian way. Finished in a sleek "Gunmetal Grey," the scooter looks professional and mature. It doesn't scream for attention with neon colors; instead, it commands respect with its thick tubing, massive welding seams, and sturdy construction. Trittbrett prides itself on using quality components, right down to the screws, which are sourced from Würth. This attention to detail means that rattles and creaks-the bane of many e-scooters-are virtually non-existent on a well-maintained Paul.

One of the most striking design features is the deck. It is enormous. Measuring approximately 60 cm x 22 cm, the footboard allows riders to stand with their feet side-by-side or in a comfortable snowboard stance. This is a massive ergonomic advantage for long rides, as being able to shift your weight and foot position reduces fatigue significantly. The frame itself is robust enough to support a payload of 150 kg, a rarity in the scooter world where 100 kg or 120 kg limits are common. This high weight limit speaks volumes about the structural integrity of the chassis.

The folding mechanism is another area where engineering prowess is evident. It uses a double-safety claw system that is incredibly rigid when locked. There is zero stem wobble, which is critical for feeling safe at top speed. However, the design does prioritize stability over compactness. When folded, the Paul is still a substantial package. The handlebars hook into the rear fender (which has been reinforced in newer models to handle the stress), allowing you to lift it, but the sheer bulk of the stem and the wide handlebars mean it takes up a fair amount of space. It's a design that says, "I am a vehicle, not a piece of luggage."

Comfort

At first glance, the spec sheet reveals a potential deal-breaker for some: "Suspension: None." In an era where even budget scooters are slapping on spring shocks, how can a premium scooter like the Paul justify a rigid frame? The answer lies in the tires. Trittbrett has equipped the Paul with massive 11-inch CST tubeless pneumatic tires. These are significantly larger than the standard 8.5 or 10-inch tires found on most commuters. Because they are tubeless and have a high air volume, they can be run at slightly lower pressures to act as a natural air suspension.

In practice, this setup works surprisingly well for urban environments. The large diameter of the wheels allows them to roll over potholes, tram tracks, and cobblestones that would swallow smaller wheels. The pneumatic cushion absorbs high-frequency vibrations from the road effectively. Riders report that on asphalt and paved paths, the ride is "cloud-like" and extremely stable. The lack of mechanical suspension also means there are fewer moving parts to maintain or squeak, which aligns with the scooter's philosophy of durability. However, it is important to be realistic: if you hit a deep crater or try to take the Paul off-road on a root-filled forest trail, you will feel it in your knees. It is a street cruiser, not a dirt bike.

Comfort is also derived from the rider's geometry. The handlebars are wide and positioned at a height (100 cm from the deck) that accommodates taller riders comfortably. You don't feel hunched over. The ergonomic grips are designed to reduce hand fatigue during those marathon 50 km rides. Combined with the spacious deck mentioned earlier, the overall ergonomic package is excellent. You can ride the Paul for an hour straight without feeling the need to stop and stretch, which is exactly what you need from a scooter claiming a 95 km range.

Range

Range is the headline feature of "Der neue Paul." Trittbrett offers this machine with two battery options: a 14.7 Ah version and a massive 19.6 Ah version, both running on a 48 V system using high-quality LG cells. The manufacturer claims a range of up to 75 km for the smaller battery and a staggering 95 km for the larger one. In the world of electric vehicles, manufacturer estimates are often optimistic, usually tested with a light rider on a flat indoor track. However, the Paul is different. Because of the high efficiency of the Bosch motor and the quality of the LG cells, the real-world performance is closer to the claims than most competitors.

In real-world testing by the community, the results are impressive. A rider weighing around 80-90 kg, riding in mixed conditions with some hills and mostly at full throttle, can realistically expect to achieve 50 to 65 km on the 19.6 Ah model. If you ride more conservatively in Eco mode, approaching the 80 km mark is not impossible. This is "range freedom." It means you can commute to work, run errands at lunch, ride to a friend's house in the evening, and ride home, all without ever taking the charger out of your backpack. For heavy riders (100 kg+), who typically see battery percentages vanish before their eyes, the Paul offers a usable range of 40-50 km, which is a liberation.

Charging this massive battery does take time. The 19.6 Ah variant takes about 5 to 6 hours to charge fully with the included 3A charger. While not lightning fast, it is reasonable for the capacity. The charging port is well-protected with a silicone cap to prevent water ingress. The longevity of the battery is also a key point; Trittbrett claims that with good care, the LG battery will last for at least 800 charging cycles. If you utilize 60% of the capacity per cycle, that translates to over 45 000 km of total lifespan-a number that most cars would be proud of, let alone a scooter.

Use and Practicality

Living with the Trittbrett Paul requires a bit of planning, primarily due to one factor: weight. Tipping the scales at around 25 kg, this is not a scooter you want to carry up to a fourth-floor walk-up apartment every day. It is heavy, and the weight is distributed in a way that makes it feel substantial. While it does fold, the folded dimensions (approx. 119 x 60 x 56 cm) are bulky. It will fit in the trunk of a station wagon or a larger hatchback, but it might struggle to fit in a compact city car without putting the rear seats down. It is best suited for people who have elevator access, a garage, or a secure ground-floor storage room.

However, once the wheels are on the ground, the practicality is unmatched. The kickstand, often an afterthought on other scooters, is robust and holds the heavy scooter stable even on slightly uneven ground. The IP65 rating is a huge practical benefit for daily commuters in Northern Europe where rain is a constant threat. You don't have to panic if the sky opens up; the Paul is designed to handle wet conditions (though avoiding deep puddles is always wise). The Trittbrett App adds another layer of utility, offering an immobilizer feature, detailed ride stats, and even sound options, although the community often notes that the scooter works perfectly fine without constantly fiddling with the app.

For the "last mile" commuter who takes a train, the Paul is a mixed bag. It is allowed on trains, but its size might make you unpopular during rush hour. It is really designed as a "whole trip" vehicle-a car replacement for inner-city travel rather than a supplement to public transport. The integrated hook on the handlebars (often used for the folding mechanism) can sometimes double as a small bag hook, adding a touch of utility for quick grocery runs, though a backpack is generally the better option.

General Assessment

The general consensus in the electric scooter community regarding "Der neue Paul" is overwhelmingly positive. It has earned a reputation as the "Mercedes-Benz" of the eKFV (German street-legal) market. Owners frequently praise the build quality, noting that it feels like a cohesive vehicle rather than a rattling toy. The Bosch motor is universally adored for its torque and reliability; it is seen as a premium feature that justifies the higher price tag. The phrase "buy nice or buy twice" is often thrown around in forums when discussing the Paul-it is the upgrade people make after their cheap entry-level scooter falls apart.

That said, it is not without its critics. The lack of suspension is the most common point of contention. While the tires do a great job, some riders simply demand mechanical suspension for the price they are paying. Additionally, the weight is a hurdle for smaller riders or those with stairs. However, most owners seem to accept the weight as a necessary trade-off for the range and stability. The customer support from Trittbrett is also frequently highlighted as a positive; being a German company, spare parts are available, and warranty claims are generally handled with more professionalism than drop-shipping brands.

Overall, the Paul is viewed as a serious investment in mobility. It is not an impulse buy. It is a machine for the dedicated rider who values safety, range, and German engineering standards above portability and gimmickry. It delivers exactly what it promises: marathon endurance and maximum safety.

Who Is This Scooter For?

The Trittbrett Paul is specifically targeted at the heavy-duty commuter. If you weigh between 100 kg and 150 kg, this is one of the few scooters on the market that will not only carry you but will do so without struggling on hills or draining the battery in 10 minutes. The high payload capacity and high-torque motor make it the premier choice for larger riders who have felt let down by the performance of standard 350 W scooters.

It is also the perfect match for the long-distance urban explorer. If your commute is 15-20 km each way, doing that on a small, shaky scooter is exhausting. On the Paul, with its wide deck and stable tires, that distance is a breeze. It is for the rider who wants to charge their scooter once or twice a week rather than every single night. It eliminates the "range anxiety" that plagues owners of smaller scooters.

Conversely, this scooter is NOT for the multi-modal commuter who needs to hop on and off buses or subways constantly. If you have to carry your scooter up three flights of stairs at home and two at the office, the 25 kg weight will become a burden very quickly. It is also not for the adrenaline junkie looking for 50 km/h speeds (unless you are riding on private land and have modified it, which voids the warranty and legality), nor is it for the off-road enthusiast who needs full suspension for dirt trails.

Community Feedback - Pros

• Bosch Motor: Universally praised for its reliability, silence, and incredible torque on hills.
• Real-World Range: Users love that the 95 km claim translates to a very usable 60+ km in tough conditions.
• Braking System: The dual hydraulic Zoom brakes combined with E-ABS are considered best-in-class for safety.
• Payload Capacity: One of the few scooters that genuinely supports riders up to 150 kg without performance loss.
• Tires: The 11-inch CST tubeless tires are lauded for their grip and ability to smooth out bumps.
• Build Quality: "Tank-like" construction with high-quality Würth screws and no stem wobble.
• Deck Size: The massive footboard allows for a comfortable, changing stance during long rides.
• Lighting: Integrated turn signals (often Kellermann) are bright and enhance safety significantly.
• Water Resistance: IP65/IP67 ratings give riders confidence in variable weather.
• Fenders: The mudguards are effective and robust, keeping the rider dry.

The community's love for the Paul centers heavily on its reliability and power delivery. The Bosch motor is frequently cited as the main reason for purchase. Riders appreciate that the scooter doesn't feel like it's straining; it just goes. The braking performance is another highlight, with many users sharing stories of how the hydraulic brakes saved them from potential accidents. The general sentiment is that while it is expensive, you can feel where the money went every time you accelerate up a hill.

Community Feedback - Cons

• Weight: At 25 kg, it is heavy and difficult to carry, making it unsuitable for stairs.
• No Suspension: The lack of springs or shocks is a complaint for those riding on very poor quality roads.
• Bulk: Even when folded, it is large and takes up a lot of trunk space.
• Price: It is a significant investment compared to entry-level scooters.
• Integrated Motor Brake: Some enthusiasts wish for a separate lever to control the electronic brake independently.
• Charging Time: 5-6 hours is decent, but some users wish for faster charging for such a big battery.
• Kickstand Position: While robust, some users find the kickstand can catch on high curbs if not careful.
• App Connectivity: Occasional bugs reported with the app, though not affecting rideability.

The most consistent complaint is, predictably, the weight. It is the trade-off for the range and sturdiness, but it catches some buyers off guard. The lack of suspension is the second most debated topic; while the tires help, riders on cobblestone-heavy routes often wish for a front fork suspension. However, most owners admit that these are known compromises they accepted in exchange for the reliability and range.

Value for Money

With a price tag often hovering around 1 199 € to 1 499 € (depending on the battery size and current sales), the Trittbrett Paul sits firmly in the premium segment of the commuter market. Is it worth it? If you view a scooter as a disposable toy for short summer rides, then no. You can get something for 400 € that moves. However, if you view the scooter as a legitimate vehicle for daily transportation-a car replacement-then the value proposition is incredibly strong.

When you factor in the cost of the components-the Bosch motor, the LG battery pack, the hydraulic brakes, and the high-grade aluminum frame-the price is justified. You are paying for longevity. A cheaper scooter might need a battery replacement after a year or suffer from motor failure, whereas the Paul is built to last for thousands of kilometers. The resale value of Trittbrett scooters also tends to remain higher than generic brands. For the heavy rider or the long-distance commuter, the Paul offers value by simply being one of the few machines capable of doing the job reliably day in and day out.

About the Brand

Trittbrett is a German company based in Mülheim an der Ruhr, and they have quickly carved out a unique niche in the e-mobility landscape. They are known for their fresh, somewhat cheeky marketing-naming their scooters Kalle, Emma, Paul, and Fritz-but their engineering approach is strictly serious. They position themselves as a brand that listens to the community, often implementing feedback from users into updated model years (like the reinforced fender on the new Paul).

The brand's reputation is built on trust and support. Unlike buying a scooter from a faceless overseas warehouse, buying a Trittbrett means you have access to a German support team, spare parts, and a network of service partners. They emphasize sustainability and quality, partnering with reputable suppliers like Bosch, LG, and Würth. This commitment to quality has earned them a loyal following in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), where riders demand high standards for road-legal vehicles.

Specifications

• Model: Trittbrett Der neue Paul
• Price: Approx. 1 099 € - 1 499 € (depending on battery/offers)
• Motor: Bosch Rear Motor
• Rated Power: 500 W
• Peak Power: 1 200 W
• Torque: 31 Nm
• Max Speed: 20 km/h (DE) / 25 km/h (AT)
• Battery: 48 V / 14.7 Ah (706 Wh) OR 19.6 Ah (940 Wh) LG Cells
• Range: Up to 75 km (14.7 Ah) / Up to 95 km (19.6 Ah)
• Charging Time: 5 - 6 hours
• Weight: 24.2 kg (14.7 Ah) / 25.1 kg (19.6 Ah)
• Max Load: 150 kg
• Brakes: Dual Hydraulic Disc Brakes (Zoom) + Motor Brake with E-ABS
• Tires: 11-inch CST Tubeless Pneumatic Tires
• Suspension: None (Tires provide damping)
• Dimensions (Unfolded): 119 x 61 x 122 cm
• Dimensions (Folded): 119 x 61 x 56 cm
• Water Resistance: IP65 (Scooter) / IP67 (Motor)
• Climbing Ability: Up to 30%

Known Alternatives

If the Trittbrett Paul isn't quite ticking all your boxes, or if you want to see what else is out there in the premium commuter space, there are a few worthy competitors to consider. Each offers a slightly different balance of features, usually trading off range for suspension or weight.

For those who absolutely demand suspension, the KAABO Mantis 8 is a strong contender. It features dual motors and a full suspension system, making it a softer ride on rough terrain. However, it often has a lower range than the Paul and the build quality, while good, is generally considered a step below the industrial robustness of the Trittbrett. It's a sportier, more aggressive ride compared to Paul's touring nature.

Other alternatives include the DUCATI Cross-E, which offers a rugged design and brand appeal but often falls short on the sheer battery capacity found in the Paul. The MERCANE G2 Max is another high-torque option that focuses on power, but its unique design can be polarizing and parts availability can be trickier. If you are looking for something from the Australian market that competes in this high-end space, the MEARTH GTS Evo and MEARTH GTS Air offer compelling performance packages, though they may not meet the specific German eKFV regulations that the Paul is designed around.