[flecc]

Hi Alex, you got into the forum ok in the end then!

The Torq is only good for hill climbing if you are a strong cyclist, since both the motor and derailleur are very high geared. It's a fast climber on moderate hills with a strong cyclist though, but I would never consider it a first choice if hills are the main concern. I own one and am in a very hilly area, so in a position to judge.

The Heinzmann Estelle is a very good quality bike and a good hill climber, and is a good choice for long term reliability. You are also not too far from the leading Heinzmann and Estelle supplier, Kinetics, who are very experienced with these marques.

Those Izip models are new here and nothing is known of that particular model and motor type yet. The old type Currie Izip same power motor was quite a good climber though, so these are probably similar.

Again, the Sunrunner is a new arrival so we know nothing personally about it. However, it was included in the 2007 European Extra Energy test series of many electric bikes, and it scored the joint second lowest hill assistance factor of all, only one bike weaker. Therefore it's definitely seems the wrong bike for your needs.

Conclusion: Since some of your choices are around the £1200 region, you should also consider the two most powerful bikes, the eZee Forte and Forza. Both are a little dearer, but have about 25% more power than anything else on the UK market. The Forza has a similar high speed performance to the Torq, but with the hill climb power as well.

Hope this is some help.
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