Why does a bike need a top tube?

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    Diamant Videos 2025 Fabio Andoni

    Accessory Bar

    The multifunctional top tube

    Why a bicycle may have a top tube – but may not need it

    Not every bike needs a top tube. But many love the classic look of a stepover frame. That’s why we re-invented the top tube from scratch when we developed the Suvea E-SUV. It’s more than a top tube, as it combines visual aesthetics with designed functionality – and it’s removable.

    Top tube: A matter of style, not stiffness

    We build our lowstep frames with hiqh-quality materials and engineer them to the same stability as other frame styles. Thus, we can say with conviction: A top tube is not strictly necessary anymore nowadays. The Suvea’s removable Accessory Bar offers a superior alternative for two types of people.

    Those who definitely want to enjoy the comfort of a lowstep in their everyday riding, but do not want to miss out on the functionality of a top tube when they go on a long weekend ride or embark on a cycling vacation, i.e. whenever they need to carry a little more.

    And those who really appreciate the classic looks of a stepover frame, but keep an eye on some realistic scenarios in which they’d benefit of a lowstep’s comfort – without having to buy a new or second e-bike just for that. May it be an accident, age, or because soon a child-seat will take ownership of the rack.

    Suvea and Suvea Speed will always be among the most comfortable pedelec options for anyone, but when needed, they can transform to either more sportive or more comfortable – but always more flexible.

    What is the Accessory Bar?

    The Accessory Bar is intentionally not a “real top tube,” but a much more practical and flexible solution. It consists of two parts: An aluminum bar with seat clamp, which must match the frame size, and a plastic cover featuring an elegant engraving of the Diamant head badge. The aluminum bar is designed with open grooves. This allows you to mount inserts and attach your gear flexibly. You can also secure accessories using suitable straps or belts. Additionally, two screws on top of the Accessory Bar allow you to firmly and securely mount a top tube bag – ideal for quick access to your smartphone or an energy bar.

    How to install the Accessory Bar 

    It’s simple and only takes a few minutes. For maximum safety and perfect fit, we always recommend installation by one of our authorized dealers. The following video serves as a supplementary guide and demonstrates proper installation.

    How we developed the Accessory Bar

    Interview with Gernot Künzel, Senior Industrial Designer at Diamant

    What did the development process for the Suvea with Accessory Bar look like?

    With the goal of designing a lowstep frame, we asked ourselves whether a welded-in top tube would unnecessarily complicate everything – technically, it simply wasn’t required. Instead, we invested significant time into the mounting system and the assembly and installation processes. Everything has to fit together perfectly to create a harmonious overall package.

    Were there specific technical or design challenges?

    Yes, especially the challenge of covering two different frame sizes with a single kit. Different lengths and installation positions made things more complex. At the same time, the price of the retrofit kit had to remain attractive for both dealers and customers. In the end, we decided on two sizes.

    What was the most exciting moment during development?

    Definitely seeing whether the idea would resonate in the market and with customers. It quickly became clear that we’re not the only ones who recognize the added value of an optional top tube.

    What values and design principles define the final product?

    With the Accessory Bar, we want riders to personalize their bike – to truly make it their own. Functionality, flexibility, and individual customization were always our top priorities.

    Gernot AB
    AB Gernot
    AB Gernot

    Buy an Accessory Bar for your Suvea now

    Sizes: S-M / L-XL
    Farbe: Black / Gold
    Preis: 99.99 €

    The optional Accessory Bar for the Diamant Suvea transforms your lowstep e-bike into an e-bike with a multifunctional top tube offering extensive carrying options.

    DiamantAccessoryBar 49720 B Alt2 (1)

    These bikes are compatible with the Accessory Bar

    FAQ: Bike with or without top tube

    No, a top tube is not strictly necessary. Modern lowstep frames are sufficiently stable. Many riders prefer the classic look of a bike with a top tube. With the Accessory Bar for Suvea and Suvea Speed, that look becomes especially practical, as it securely carries accessories such as bags, pumps, jackets, tools, or other useful items – even a can of Pringles.

    The Accessory Bar is mounted at the designated points on the frame and seatpost, exactly where a traditional top tube would be. We recommend installation by one of our authorized dealers. A supplementary guide can be found here.

    No, the Accessory Bar is only compatible with the following bikes:

    • Suvea E-SUV
    • Suvea Speed S-Pedelec (currently not available in the UK)

    Yes, the Accessory Bar is made of robust, weather-resistant material and can even support your body weight without issue.

    No. The Accessory Bar is not designed for that purpose. It is engineered to withstand downward forces. Applying force in the opposite direction, especially repeatedly or intensely, could cause it to detach from its mounting points.

    No. The Accessory Bar does not influence frame stability or ride characteristics. Instead, it offers additional storage solutions without compromising comfort or safety.

    Diamant Videos 2025 Fabio Andoni

    Many cyclists appreciate lowstep bikes – but often want more:

    ✓ Flexibility
    ✓ A sportier look
    ✓ Practical solutions for accessories