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eBike Update: The Latest on Desert eMTB Challenge, Innovation Awards, eMTB Racing, Monterey Ride, Solar Tech, and Much More! Watch the Videos.
Aug
The Latest in eBikes
Design & Innovation Award Winners
This week’s eBike news roundup brings exciting updates on the winners of the Design and Innovation Awards. Let’s dive into the highlights:
The Corratec Life-S catches the eye with its trendy design, comfort, and practicality. This urban e-bike stands out, thanks to its powerful Bosch Active Line Plus motor.
Meanwhile, the Thoemus Twinner E1 offers both urban and e-mtb variants. With its sleek carbon frames and Shimano E-8000 mid-drive, this Swiss creation represents cutting-edge design.
These award-winning e-bikes showcase the industry’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation and design. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates in the world of eBikes!
Other new names that are award winners include e-mtb newcomers Husqvarna and their Hard Cross HC9 powered by a Shimano E-8000 mid-drive and an in-frame 600Wh battery plus an all-rounder e-mtb design the Centurion Numinis Trail E F3500 also with a Shimano E-8000 motor.
In addition to the previously mentioned award winners, the e-mtb market welcomes some fresh contenders that have shown outstanding performance. Among them, Husqvarna introduces their remarkable Hard Cross HC9 model. This e-mtb stands out for its Shimano E-8000 mid-drive system and a powerful 600Wh battery integrated into the frame. Furthermore, the Centurion Numinis Trail E F3500 boasts an excellent all-around e-mtb design, featuring a Shimano E-8000 motor.
You can check out all the award winners here, including e-bikes we have already covered at EBR from the likes of Haibike, Riese & Muller and Trek.
To explore the full list of award-winning e-bikes, including models that we previously featured at EBR from popular brands such as Haibike, Riese & Muller, and Trek, click here.
Get Inspired
Bafang Recruits Olympic Champion
Bafang, a renowned manufacturer of e-bike motors, has recently joined forces with MTB Olympic Champion Bart Brentjens. This collaboration aims to develop a cutting-edge e-mtb for the American Eagle brand, enabling them to compete in the newly-formed UCI electric mountain bike racing class. This exciting partnership promises to bring forth a victory-ready e-mtb that embodies the excellence of both Bafang and Bart Brentjens.
Bafang and MTB Olympic Champion Bart Brentjens are to ‘forge a development and sponsorship partnership’ in order to ‘develop a victory-ready e-mtb for the American Eagle brand, to compete in the newly-formed UCI electric mountain bike racing class’ say major e-bike motor manufacturer Bafang.
eBike Deals
If you are looking for exceptional savings on e-bikes, Junto is offering a remarkable deal on their 2018 floor model eBikes. Originally priced at $1,799, they are now available for only $1,100, with free shipping within the continental USA. This promotion is limited to the Small and Medium bike sizes, suitable for riders ranging from 5’2″ to 6’0″. The eBikes are available in Blue or Gray frames. To take advantage of this special pricing, make sure to use the discount code: REPORT18.
Junto is blowing out their 2018 floor model eBikes with big savings. Originally $1,799, they are selling 16 of their floor models for $1,100 with free shipping in the continental USA. They are only available on Small & Medium bikes, fitting riders in size from 5’2″ to 6’0″, Blue or Gray frames. To get the special pricing use discount code: REPORT18
Get Inspired
To find inspiration for your next adventure, allow us to share an exciting endeavor. Bafang has recently enlisted the collaboration of Olympic Champion Bart Brentjens. This partnership aims to develop an exceptional e-mtb exclusively for the esteemed American Eagle brand. The e-mtb is skillfully engineered to compete in the newly-established UCI electric mountain bike racing class. Together, Bafang and Bart Brentjens strive to create a victory-ready e-mtb that perfectly embodies the spirit of American Eagle.
Bafang Recruits Olympic Champion
Bafang, a prominent manufacturer of e-bike motors, has entered into a remarkable development and sponsorship partnership with MTB Olympic Champion Bart Brentjens. This alliance endeavors to conceive a top-tier e-mtb designed specifically for the American Eagle brand, allowing them to excel in the recently-formed UCI electric mountain bike racing class. With Bafang’s expertise and Bart Brentjens’ pedigree, this collaboration promises to deliver an unparalleled e-mtb built for triumph.
Netherlands’ Bart Brentjens: A Trailblazer in MTB
Known worldwide for his outstanding achievement in mountain biking, Bart Brentjens of the Netherlands made history by winning the Gold Medal in the MTB event at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, USA. His remarkable performance has cemented his legacy in the sport.
Exciting News: The Bafang M500 Collaboration
Prepare to be amazed! It has been recently announced that Bart Brentjens will be partnering with Bafang for an exciting collaboration. The focal point of this partnership is the impressive Bafang M500, a powerful mid-drive with a weight of just 3.3kg. This innovative technology is set to revolutionize the e-bike industry.
Stay tuned for more electrifying e-bike news and comprehensive reviews. We greatly appreciate your avid readership!
The E-bike Desert Challenge: A Triumph for Robert Adams
We are thrilled to share the exhilarating news of Robert Adams’ stunning victory at the prestigious E-bike Desert Challenge. This remarkable British cyclist, only 15 years old, emerged triumphant in the E-Bike 25 class (250W, 25 km/h), showcasing his exceptional talent and determination.
Taking place from the 28th to the 31st of December, this grueling 300km / 185-mile race unfolded against the stunning backdrop of the Moroccan Sahara. The event also featured competitive classes in restricted speed of 45km/h and ‘tuned’ categories.
With daytime temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit) and significantly colder nights, this challenge tested the riders’ endurance to the fullest.
For more detailed coverage, be sure to read the enlightening CNN report. In an interview with CNN Sport, Adams highlighted the significance of navigation skills in this distinctive event. He remarked, “The navigation is a skill in itself, I think that’s what makes this event so unique. You could be the fastest rider there, but if your navigation isn’t up to scratch, you’re not going to do well.”
The organizers envision continuous growth for this event, with more than 300 riders expected to participate in the upcoming years.
Unforgettable eBike Adventure on the Monterey Peninsula
Prepare for an extraordinary e-bike adventure as we take you along the stunning Monterey Peninsula in California. This captivating 17-mile e-bike ride is undeniably one of the most extraordinary and luxurious experiences in the entire United States.
Our journey begins with a visit to the remarkable Mad Dogs and Englishmen bike shop in Carmel, where we explore its alluring allure. Equipped with e-bikes, we venture through ancient forests, witness pristine beaches, and marvel at the breathtaking multi-million dollar mansions dotting the famous 17-mile drive. (Toll-free for e-bikers, unfortunately not for those in cars…)
Our unforgettable excursion even includes a delightful pit stop at the renowned Pebble Beach golf course, where we indulge in a delectable bite to eat.
Discover the Latest Cycle Innovations
Kuat Car Rack & Ramp: The Ultimate Convenience
Introducing the game-changing Kuat Car Rack & Ramp, designed to revolutionize the way you transport your eBike. This remarkable ramp, recently launched by Kuat, enables effortless rolling of your eBike onto their cutting-edge NV 2.0 rack. Boasting a remarkable capacity of up to 60 pounds, this rack ensures secure and hassle-free transportation of your beloved bike.
Airbag for Cyclists’ Body
Recently showcased at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas was the groundbreaking B’Safe Airbag Cycle Vest. This incredible innovation, developed by the French company Helite, serves as both a regular cycling gilet and an airbag, providing crucial protection to cyclists in the event of a collision or fall.
Recognized with an innovation award in the wearable technology category at CES, this prototype is specifically designed to safeguard the thorax, neck, and back. When activated, two crash detector unit (CDU) sensors trigger a CO2 canister to inflate the airbag, offering immediate defense.
One sensor effectively monitors the cyclist’s motion, promptly detecting any instances of falling, while the other sensor swiftly identifies sudden impacts. Together, they ensure comprehensive safety for riders.
Excitingly, a Kickstarter campaign is scheduled for April 2019, with plans to begin shipping later in the same year.
The Cosmo Connected Smart Bike Light
Adding to the stunning array of light designs for bikes that incorporate turn indicating signals, Cosmo has emerged as the latest innovative player in this field. In addition to its turn signals, this versatile smart bike light also includes a brake light and an accident notification system, activated in the event of a fall or collision.
Furthermore, there are plans for a forthcoming helmet integrated version, further enhancing safety measures for cyclists.
Rumble Retrofit Helmet Lights
Taking helmet lights to the next level, US design company Rumble introduces a retrofit helmet light system that boasts front, rear, and turn indicator lights. These lights can be conveniently operated wirelessly from a handlebar button, ensuring effortless functionality.
Solar and Battery News
Battery Explosion
This fascinating article from Forbes recounts the harrowing experience of a 79-year-old Australian man whose high-end e-road bike unexpectedly burst into flames during a well-known ascent near Adelaide, Australia. The incident was attributed to a battery fault in the retro-fitted e-bike hub motor kit the man was utilizing. Fortunately, he escaped relatively unscathed.
Hawai’s Massive New Solar Storage Investment
While many individuals already rely on solar power to charge their e-bike batteries, Hawaii is taking solar storage to an unprecedented level. As reported by Axios, the Hawaiian Electric Company has recently submitted proposals for seven ambitious solar-plus-storage projects. These groundbreaking endeavors have the potential to add over 260 megawatts of solar capacity and an astounding 1,000 megawatt-hours of storage to the Hawaiian grid. This would surpass the total cumulative energy storage deployed throughout the entire United States between 2013 and 2017, marking a remarkable milestone in the realm of solar energy innovation.
The Future of Wheelchair Mobility: Moby is Revolutionizing Sharing Services
‘Moby: Enhancing Accessibility and Freedom’
According to a report by Autoblog, Italdesign’s innovative wheelchair-sharing system, known as Moby, has emerged as one of the top five finalists in the Toyota Mobility Foundation’s prestigious $4 million Mobility Unlimited Challenge. This groundbreaking concept is a game-changer for wheelchair users, akin to a bicycle-sharing system but specifically designed for wheelchairs.
A Corporate Shift in Bike Advocacy
An intriguing article in Wired sheds light on how cycling activists have unexpectedly embraced roles within major corporations to promote the widespread adoption of bike sharing programs. The pivotal question for these advocates – with hopes set high – is whether their newfound positions will empower them to bring about substantial benefits for the cycling community as a whole.
As the article asserts, the emergence of tech-driven advocates presents tremendous opportunities. Trading their ideals for access to extensive platforms and substantial budgets, these advocates can now champion initiatives that support the environment, cycling, and street safety.
The Rise of Electric Vehicles and the Uncertainty of Autonomous Cars
It may seem logical to assume that fewer cars on the road would create a safer environment for e-bikers. In a utopian e-biking paradise, fleets of autonomous vehicles would traverse cities, devoid of crashes and incidents.
Nonetheless, a thought-provoking BBC article raises the question: Are the days of the private car numbered? Surprisingly, the piece concludes that while electric cars and ride-hailing/micromobility sharing services are undoubtedly gaining momentum, the anticipated revolution of autonomous vehicles might be further away than originally anticipated.
Ofo’s Retreat: The Decline of Chinese Bike-Share Abroad
Cycling Industry News reports that Ofo, the Chinese dockless bike-share company, has made the difficult decision to withdraw from all overseas operations, including their service in London. Struggling financially due to cash flow issues, Ofo’s departure poses the question: will its Chinese competitor, MoBike, face similar difficulties outside of China? Alternatively, can MoBike succeed where Ofo fell short with its new e-bike sharing system?
Embracing Electrification: Daimler’s Exciting Venture
Electrive brings attention to Daimler’s subsidiary, Mytaxi, as they embark on an ambitious pilot project in Southern Europe. With plans to introduce up to 500 electric scooters, Mytaxi aims to make a significant impact in the realm of urban micromobility.
Changes on the Horizon: Lime Scooter Treads Cautiously in Switzerland
This report hailing from Switzerland enlightens us about an ongoing issue involving Lime, as they have decided to temporarily withdraw their fleet of 550 electric scooters in Zurich and Basel. These steps have been taken due to a technical flaw that seems to be responsible for several accidents occurring in recent months. It has come to light that the front brakes of these scooters involuntarily activate when they reach their maximum speed of approximately 24kmh.
eBike Biz
Ruff Sales Office in the US
While Ruff e-bikes, powered by Bosch and reminiscent of the classic US beach cruiser, hail from Germany, they are undoubtedly gaining popularity in the United States. In light of this, Ruff has taken the notable decision to open their first international office outside of Germany in the US. This move has been made to establish a closer connection with the enthusiastic Ruff Cycles community in North America while simultaneously expanding their retailer network in significant markets. Additionally, this strategic decision is a stepping stone towards attracting talented individuals who can envision and create new products that will continue to astound and delight customers.
Elby Continues Beyond BionX
Late last year, we shared with you the unfortunate news of the closure of BionX GmbH, a highly regarded gearless hub motor manufacturer. Elby, a prominent Canadian e-bike manufacturer, happens to be one of the companies relying on BionX technology. However, we are delighted to inform you that Elby has restructured under a new investment group and has secured a strategic partnership with the revitalized BionX ebike powertrain business. This collaboration ensures that Elby will continue to expand its distribution channels, develop innovative products, and provide unwavering support to its cherished customers and retailers. With this restructuring, Elby can equip their current S1 model generation with BionX’s cutting-edge D-Series motor, while also gaining access to indispensable inventory, technical support, service capacity, and valuable intellectual property. Thus, Elby users can expect to receive an impeccable customer experience and exceptional post-sales support. The flagship S1 model will continue to be priced at $2,999.99 USD / $3,299.99 CDN and boasts a powerful 500-watt BionX motor with a maximum speed of 20mph. To purchase an Elby e-bike, you can visit their website, buy through Amazon, explore Velofix mobile bike shops, or check out their growing network of independent retailers worldwide.
EU Anti-Dumping Duties
The European Union has officially announced its decision to impose anti-dumping duties on Chinese electric bikes being imported into the region. These duties vary from 24.3% to 79.3%. If you are interested in obtaining further details, Bike Europe provides a detailed overview of this significant development. Keep an eye out for more e-bike news and reviews, and we sincerely appreciate your readership!
