There are plenty of e-bikes that focus on performance. Plenty that focus on tech. And plenty that lean into affordability. But every now and then, a bike comes along that feels more like a piece of art than a machine. That’s exactly what Austrian bike maker esel is going for with its newly launched eUrban electric bike, a striking wooden-framed e-bike that blends natural materials with modern electric performance. And after seeing so many cookie-cutter, nearly identical e-bikes come across my desk over the years, it’s refreshing to see something so unique. Advertisement - scroll for more content Formerly known as My Esel, the company is using this launch as part of a broader rebrand, simplifying its name to just “esel” and leaning into a new identity built around the concept of “Ride your nature.” And that philosophy shows up most clearly in the frame. Unlike traditional aluminum or carbon fiber bikes, esel builds its frames from a specially developed wood composite. Sure, it’s eye-catching and beautiful (if you’re into wood, which luckily for me, I am), but it’s about more than just aesthetics. The company says the material offers a unique combination of high rigidity and natural vibration damping, which can lead to a noticeably smoother ride compared to conventional frames. If you’ve ever ridden a bike over rough city streets or uneven pavement, that kind of built-in compliance can make a real difference. The frames are manufactured in Austria using a mix of CNC machining, engineering, and traditional craftsmanship. The result is a bike that doesn’t just look unique, but rather truly is different, from both a materials and production standpoint. The new eUrban model brings that signature ash wood construction into a more city-focused electric platform. Designed for urban riding, the eUrban features a minimalist aesthetic with a clean, integrated e-drive system that’s meant to stay visually subtle rather than dominate the design. The goal here isn’t to scream “electric bike,” but to quietly enhance the riding experience with what the company describes as “constant tailwind.” The bike uses a modest rear hub motor with 42 Nm of torque and a 350 Wh integrated battery, with esel emphasizing lightweight construction, integrated features like GPS, and a focus on simplicity – stripping away anything that doesn’t directly contribute to the ride. Two models are available that share the same frame and electronics, with the bicycle components making up the difference in cost (and weight). The 18.5 kg (40.8 lb) Basic version offers a quality 10-speed Shimano Deore RD-T6000 transmission, aluminum wheels, and an aluminum seatpost for €3,990. The higher spec 16.5 kg (36.3 lb) Performance version upgrades to a nicer 11-speed Shimano Deore XT RD-M8000 transmission, carbon wheels, and a carbon seatpost for €4,990. Both setups include a carbon fork, Schwalbe G-ONE 45-662 tires, and Shimano MT410 dual-piston hydraulic disc brakes. The company’s design-first approach is already earning recognition. The eUrban recently picked up a German Design Award 2026, adding to a growing list of accolades that includes previous Eurobike and ISPO awards. Oh, and in case you’re wondering about rain, which I definitely was, it appears that riders won’t have to worry. The company uses a custom four-layer process for completely waterproofing the frame via several layered treatments that are intended to last the life of the bike. There’s no need to re-oil or wax it like a cutting board – just wipe the bike off with a damp rag, and you’re good to go. Electrek’s Take Wooden e-bikes aren’t new, but they’re still rare – and that’s part of what makes this one so interesting. Esel has been working with wood composite frames since 2016, and while it might sound like a novelty at first, there’s actually a solid case for it. Wood’s natural vibration damping is real, and when engineered properly, it can offer a ride quality that’s hard to replicate with stiffer materials like aluminum. But let’s be honest – a big part of the appeal here is emotional. This is a bike that stands out. In a sea of black aluminum frames and integrated batteries, the eUrban looks warm, organic, and genuinely unique. It’s the kind of bike that turns heads locked up outside a café as much as it does rolling down the street. Sure, it costs significantly more than a typical aluminum commuter e-bike with these specs would go for, but it also looks like no other ride out there. This is an e-bike that you hang on a wall mount in your living room when you’re not riding it, instead of propping it up in the hallway or behind the couch. And I’m here for it! Oh, and while the new eUrban is the big news of the day, esel also has wooden e-mountain bikes, e-gravel bikes, and e-touring bikes, too – plus non-electric bikes if you want the cool look without the electric assist. Stay up to date with the latest content by subscribing to Electrek on Google News. You’re reading Electrek— experts who break news about Tesla, electric vehicles, and green energy, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow Electrek on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our YouTube channel for the latest reviews.