Porsche has shut down three subsidiary companies, including Porsche eBike Performance and the Fazua e-bike motor brand. In April, Porsche sold its 45% stake in the Bugatti Rimac car group to HOF Capital, a New York-based venture capital firm, and the closures followed from there.

The company’s executive board chairman, Dr. Michael Leiters, said: “We must refocus on our core business. This is the indispensable foundation for a successful strategic realignment. This forces us to make painful cuts, including our subsidiaries.”

Porsche cited “fundamentally changed market conditions for e-bike drive systems” as the reason for the shutdown, despite having announced plans in 2025 to build a battery factory in Croatia. That factory was originally set to open this year.

The context here matters. E-bike sales across Europe have been declining. According to Bike EU, sales dropped roughly 5% from 4.2 million to 4 million units in 2023 across major markets including Germany, France, the UK, and Spain.

BikeRadar reports that 2024 brought further declines: down 9.7% in the UK, 15.8% in France, and 19.1% in Spain. Many manufacturers have also shifted to newer motors, like the Avinox mid-drive, which can produce up to 1,500W of peak power and 150 Nm of torque.

A Porsche spokesperson said Fazua customers and dealers “will continue to have long-term access to spare parts and service,” with further details to follow.

Our Take:
Based on recent events, we can’t say this was a huge surprise. Despite the popularity of Fazua motors, Porsche was never a core player in the e-bike space. Recent competition from the likes of Amflow, plus a softening European market, gave them little reason to stay.

The real question for affected riders is how long “long-term” actually means when it comes to parts and service support. As we’ve seen from some other brands that closed or pulled out of specific markets, promises aren’t always guaranteed. We’ll keep you posted on further developments!

In the first week of May, Specialized notified its US and Canadian dealers that it was permanently reducing prices on all current Turbo Levo models. Retail price cuts range from 6% to 27%, with the biggest reductions at the top end. The Turbo Levo R S-Works dropped 26.5%, from $15,650 down to $11,500. Wholesale prices were reduced 3% to 27% as well.

Specialized’s North American Commercial Leader, Matt Kephart, attributed the change to operational improvements, saying: “Operational improvements on the Levo platform reduced cost structures specific to this product line, and the competitive moment in e-MTB made now the right time to act. The result is a permanent pricing reset that brings more riders into the category and into your store, while supporting sustainable margins and stronger sell-through.”

Riders who registered a Turbo Levo between January 1st and May 7th of this year will receive a Founder’s Credit via email. That credit covers 50% of the price difference between what they paid and the new price, and it can be used on Specialized’s website on any product eligible for direct-to-home delivery.

The Founders Credit becomes 100% of the price difference when applied toward a new Turbo Levo S-Works, Pro, or Expert model. Any credits given out expire June 30th.

For dealers, Specialized rolled out IBR Inventory Credits that automatically adjust inventory costs to match the new pricing for in-stock bikes purchased between February 1st and May 7th.

Our Take:
Kephart’s statement is diplomatic, but the script puts it plainly: this is at least partly a response to competition from newer brands like Amflow, which offer more power at lower prices. Specialized makes great e-bikes—as evidenced by the number of Turbo Levos we see on a daily basis here in SW Utah—and lowering prices to stay competitive is the right move.

Two separate recalls were issued this week covering helmets sold on Amazon and Temu. Neither batch meets mandatory safety standards, and both can fail to protect riders in a crash.

The first recall covers approximately 2,200 Favoto H-1 helmets sold on Amazon. The helmet has a black body with red stripes, black padding, black straps with a silver reflective pattern, and a black and red buckle. “FAVOTO” appears in white letters on the side.

These were sold exclusively in youth size Large and don’t comply with labeling, certification, or positional stability requirements. They were priced between $20 and $27. Owners should destroy the helmet by cutting the straps, photograph it, and email the photos to [email protected] for a full refund.

The second recall covers around 740 Foubeaka and Geniuss multi-purpose helmets sold on Temu. These came in black or white with black padding, straps, a buckle, and an adjustable fit knob at the back. They were sold exclusively in size Small, priced between $9 and $11, and similarly fail positional stability and certification requirements.

To get a refund for these helmets, owners should follow the same destroy-and-photograph process and email [email protected].

Our Take:
Cheap helmets keep showing up in these recalls, and the pattern is consistent. If you’re shopping for a helmet, we recommend that you spend more than $10-20. A helmet that doesn’t meet safety standards isn’t protecting anyone!

In celebration of May Bicycle Month, PeopleForBikes and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation are offering their e-bike safety course at no cost through the end of the month.

The course normally costs $35.99 and covers e-bike basics, rules of the road, and practice drills. It’s designed for teens and riders who haven’t gone through a driver’s education course, though anyone can take it. The course takes about 90 minutes to complete, but it doesn’t have to be done in one sitting.

Christy LaCurelle, President and CEO of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, said: “This course is designed to help riders better understand their eBikes and make informed decisions on the road. When more people have access to quality safety education, entire communities benefit.”

Riders who complete the course receive a certificate of completion, which can be used to prove competency to schools or local governments if required. They also get 30% off helmets from Troy Lee Designs. Anyone interested can sign up at eBikecourse.com/MBM.

Our Take:
We’ve always preferred education over legislation as the path to safer riding, so this is exactly the kind of initiative we get behind. It’s free, it’s practical, and there’s no reason not to take advantage of it while it lasts. If you know a newer rider, send them the link!

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• What’s the actual difference between solid state and semi-solid-state battery technology?
• Is the JackRabbit MG Cargo really an e-bike, or is it something else?
• What MIPS helmets do we recommend?

The Revv1 EVO, announced by Ride1Up this week, is an updated take on the brand’s moped-style e-bike. While familiar-looking, its styling closely resembles recent releases from Juiced and Super73. The EVO boasts high battery capacity, longer life, faster charging, and improved durability and cold weather performance when compared with lithium-ion technology.

Ride1Up’s website claims that the bike’s battery has a lifespan of over 1,200 charge cycles and a full charge time of 2 hours with a 9A fast charger. For perspective, current lithium-ion batteries typically last 500-1,000 cycles, and the EVO’s 1,040 Wh battery would take around 6.5 hours to recharge with a standard 3A lithium-ion battery charger.

While not purely solid state, the Revv1 EVO’s semi-solid-state power pack also has improved durability and resilience when compared to lithium-ion technology. It can handle fast charging with a 9A charger without a decrease in lifespan, and Ride1Up claims that it can retain 70% of its capacity at -4 degrees Fahrenheit.

Additionally, the EVO’s semi-solid-state battery uses a gel electrolyte, which is more stable that the liquid electrolyte used in lithium-ion batteries. While lithium-ion batteries can catch fire if punctured, crushed, or overheated, Ride1Up’s website says “The Revv1 Evo’s battery passed puncture, crush, thermal, and short-circuit tests without incident.”

On top of its 52V, 1,040 Wh battery, the Revv1 EVO features a 750W motor with a 2,080W peak and up to 100 Nm torque. It is also equipped with 4-piston brakes, integrated turn signals, and 20×4” all-terrain Vee Huntsman tires. For suspension, the EVO’s dual-crown fork offers an impressive 160mm travel, while its coil shock allows for 90mm of rear wheel travel.

Ride1Up states that this version of the Revv1 weighs 90 lbs (compared to 95+ for other models) and carries a 400 lb payload capacity. It will ship as a Class 2 e-bike limited to 20 mph via throttle and pedal assist, but it can also be unlocked to a faster Class 3 or off-road mode.

The bike, which is set to ship in August, is currently available for pre-order for $2,395.

Our Take:
The Revv1 has been a strong contender in the moped-style category since its release. We’ve had the pleasure of testing and reviewing each of its three versions, including the comfortable full-suspension model, the budget-friendly hardtail bike, and the powerful, off-road-ready DRT version. Each bike has been speedy, capable, and extremely fun—so we have no reason to doubt that this new version would be different.

Of course, the EVO’s battery claims are the star of the show. Giant was reportedly preparing to announce a similar semi-solid-state battery in the near future, but Ride1Up has beaten the industry titan to the punch. Of course, until the bike’s release, and until we get hands-on testing to validate or refute the company’s claims, impressive headlines can only go so far.

Still, it’s an exciting time in the industry. Solid-state technology has been called the “holy grail” of e-bikes—a promising future that has remained on the horizon. While Ride1Up’s battery tech is only a step toward that mark, it shows the potential to change the industry, and more importantly, cement e-bikes as a useful, worthwhile investment.

Battery tech aside, however, it is curious to see that the Revv1 EVO is equipped with an admittedly beastly 750W motor. While previous versions of the bike carried 1,000W nominal motors, the EVO’s departure from this trend seems to signal Ride1Up’s intention to make its moped-style e-bike fall well within the legal limits of many states’ rapidly-changing laws.

The bill, also known as S.3077, or the Ride Safe Act, was introduced by Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey. In 2024, Governor Healey signed a law into effect that required a special commission to study and recommend regulations for micromobility devices such as e-bikes, mopeds, and electric scooters.

Among many other things, the bill adds a definition for Class 3 e-bikes to Massachusetts law. Following widely accepted standards, it outlines e-bikes in this group as those offering motor assistance up to 28 mph while the rider is pedaling.

It also adds definitions for “micromobility devices” and “powered micromobility devices,” both referred to as transportation devices used as an alternative to motor vehicles on roads, bike lanes, and sidewalks. The latter are specified to be things like electric scooters, skateboards, hoverboards, unicycles, etc.

Additionally, the bill redefines mopeds or “motorized bicycles” as pedal or non-pedal devices with a motor, an automatic transmission, and a speed not exceeding 30 mph. If enacted, the bill would require annual registration and insurance coverage for mopeds. They would also be prevented from riding in bike lanes and recreational bike paths.

Perhaps most importantly, S.3077 would create a new Speed Tier system that organizes e-bikes, micromobility devices, and other vehicles into four categories.

Speed Tier 0 would include unpowered micromobility devices and powered devices that can travel 20 mph or less, including Class 1 and 2 e-bikes.Items in Speed Tier 1 would include powered micromobility devices that can travel between 21 and 30 mph, such as Class 3 e-bikes.

Those in Tier 2 would cover devices capable of speeds between 31 and 40 mph, while those in Speed Tier 3 would be anything that able to exceed 40 mph. Devices in Speed Tiers 2 and 3 would be restricted from areas shared by bikes, pedestrians, low-speed mobility devices. As such, they would be banned from sidewalks, bike lanes, bike paths, separated micromobility lanes, and shared-use paths.

The bill also establishes electrical safety standards. E-bikes would require UL 2271 and UL 2849 or equivalent certifications, while other micromobility devices would need to meet UL 2272 standards. Additionally, it prevents aftermarket modifications that exceed the manufacturer-designed speed, power, or passenger capacity.

While not the end of the bill’s scope, it also establishes age restrictions for e-bikes and mobility devices in the Speed Tier system. Riders 16 years and younger would be allowed to use Tier 0 devices as long as they are wearing helmets. Users of devices in Tiers 1, 2, and 3 would be required to be at least 16 years of age.

Our Take:
There’s no doubt that Massachusetts is aiming to organize and regulate a wide variety of devices and vehicles with a single system. The approach is ambitious and admirable, but when it comes to e-bikes alone, we can’t help but think it’s overcomplicated. For example, organizing Class 1 and 2 e-bikes into a Tier 0—and Class 3 e-bikes into Tier 1—is likely to be somewhat confusing.

PeopleForBikes has already created model legislation that organizes e-bikes into three Classes. The group has also worked to separate e-bikes from electric motorcycles and e-dirt bikes in California with SB 1167, as we covered previously.

Every state that creates unique laws and classification systems only causes more complications for e-bike manufacturers and, possibly, sellers, as they would need to make and label products to meet individual state requirements. Massachusetts’ bill is further evidence of the need for federal-level legislation that defines e-bikes and similar devices.

Three models of bicycle lights from two brands have been recalled for violating labeling and safety standards for consumer products with button cell and coin batteries. In both cases, their batteries can be easily accessed and ingested by children, potentially causing serious injuries, internal chemical burns, or death.

Fortunately, no incidents or injuries have been reported.

The first model, labeled “Malker Bicycle Light,” consists of 7,000 products made with red, black, or white silicone. They were sold on Amazon in 4- or 8-packs, for $6.99 and $9.99, respectively. Each light contains two CR2032 button cell batteries. The items were sold online from October 2025 through November 2025 by MalkerDirect.

The second and third items, consisting of 2,800 lights of models BL-01 and BL-02, were labeled “QUEMENEY.” These lights, which also contain two button cell batteries, were made in six colors: red, yellow, blue, green, black, and white.

These items were sold in 6- or 24-packs (either one of each color or four of each color, respectively) on Amazon from March 2024 through February 2026. Six-packs cost between $7 and $10, while the 24-packs were sold for between $15 and $18.

In both cases, consumers who purchased the lights should remove their batteries, throw them away, take photos of the lights in the trash, and send photos to the manufacturer for a full refund. In the case of the Malker lights, photos can be emailed to [email protected]. The email address for the Quemeney lights is [email protected].

The Bikase MIK Momo Basket is designed to attach securely to any e-bike with an MIK-compatible cargo rack. The basket, made of high-impact polypropylene, includes an MIK mounting attachment that locks into place on the rack and releases quickly with a push key.

The basket measures approximately 12”x9”x8”, weighs about 2.5 lbs, and can carry up to 20 lbs. This model is priced at $109.99, but Bikase also offers a universal basket with rubber straps in place of the MIK attachment system for $69.99.

Additionally, riders looking to convert their existing non-MIK-compatible rack to an MIK system can use Bikase’s Universal MIK Carrier Plate. This plate attaches with four bolts and a metal bracket to the existing rack, and measures roughly 9.5”x6.5”x1.2”. It has a maximum capacity of 15 lbs, and is compatible with Bikase and other third-party products. The Carrier plate is priced at $29.99 at the time of writing.

• Is it a good idea to charge my e-bike after every ride?
• Can the Juiced Scrambler FS or Scrambler HT be unlocked to hit 28 mph on throttle-only?
• Do we plan to review recumbent e-trikes?
• Do the turn signals on the Juiced Scramblers shut off automatically?
• Why should consumers return to Juiced Bikes after the original company cheated its vendors and customers?

We will cover the main points of the state’s bill, HB 2021, below. First and foremost, this legislation would formally define the three-class e-bike system in Hawaii.

Following the widely-accepted definitions in PeopleForBikes’ Model Legislation, Class 1 e-bikes would offer pedal-assist up to 20 miles per hour. Class 2 e-bikes could be self-propelled via a throttle up to 20 mph. Class 3 e-bikes would offer pedal-assist up to 28 mph and be equipped with a speedometer. The bill would require an e-bike to have operable pedals and a motor of no more than 750 watts.

HB 2021 would also define “high speed electric devices” as having motors over 750 watts and being capable of speeds exceeding 28 mph. It would ban these devices from public roadways, bike lanes, bike facilities, sidewalks, and other public areas. Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes, however, could be used on sidewalks with a maximum speed of 10 mph.

Continuing with age requirements, the bill would raise the minimum age for unsupervised operation of Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes from 15 to 16, allowing younger riders to use e-bikes when accompanied by a parent, guardian, or other adult. Anyone under 18 would need to wear a helmet when operating a bicycle on streets, bike paths, or other public property.

Among the bill’s most unique measures is the establishment of “safe riding behavior” requirements for e-bike riders. E-bikes would generally need to be operated with all wheels on the ground, with the rider facing forward and seated normally. Stunts such as wheelies, riding on handlebars, standing or kneeling on the seat, and other reckless maneuvers would be prohibited on public roads.

Additionally, e-bike manufacturers and sellers would need to add labels showing the bike’s class, top motor-assisted speed, and motor wattage. Any sellers shipping to Hawaii, including those operating online, would need to disclose whether a model is legal for public roads, sidewalks, or bike lanes. If bike makers or retailers violate these requirements, the state Department of Transportation could fine them up to $500 per infraction.

The bill would also keep e-bikes subject to Hawaii’s existing permanent registration requirement and $30 registration fee, though registered bikes would not need insurance. Those without registration would be prohibited from operating an e-bike on a public road, sidewalk, or bike path. Those who fail to comply could receive a citation or temporary impoundment of their bike.

The bill also cracks down on the use of high-speed electric devices by students. Electric motorcycles and similar devices with “ghost pedals” would be prohibited on all public K–12 campuses. Following the previous provisions for registration, public high schools could require county registration and decals for e-bikes brought onto campus.

As of April 24th, the bill was in conference committee, where members recommended it pass with amendments.

Our Take:
This bill is the latest in a series of sweeping legislative changes affecting e-bikes and higher-powered e-motos. More and more states are aiming to better divide and define these groups of devices for the sake of safety. The trend was prompted by an increasing wave of complaints, accidents, and injuries related to e-motos and their reckless use by young riders.

We support Hawaii’s efforts to encourage safety and create new definitions for various types of mobility devices. We do not, however, support the push for e-bikes following the 3-Class system to be registered, since this treats them more like cars and less like bicycles. It makes much more sense for e-motos and other high-power devices to require registration, since they are more likely to be traveling at high speeds around automobile traffic.

Following in the wake of similar motor power increases from brands like Specialized and Amflow, riders with Bosch’s Performance Line CX and CX-R mid-drives have access to the Performance Update 2.0 starting on May 4th. With this OTA update, users can increase their torque output to 120 Nm and raise support to 600% in Race, Turbo, eMTB+, Cargo, and Auto modes through the Bosch Flow app.

In contrast with some of its competitors’ approaches, Bosch says the goal of this update is not simply to make the motor more powerful all the time. Instead, the software is designed to recognize challenging moments and deliver short bursts of peak support only when needed.

This situation-specific power delivery will be enabled when riders encounter steep or technical terrain. Bosch expects that it should help preserve the pre-update range and reduce drivetrain wear by allowing the system to return to a more efficient level after the more demanding section is behind.

The company is also adding a new Live Data Interface that can pair with third-party GPS bike computers. Garmin is Bosch’s first partner, but fitness watches, smart glasses, helmets, apps, and other products from other brands might also work with this technology in the future.

Right now, certain Garmin Edge cycling computers can connect to Bosch-equipped e-bikes via Bluetooth. At the time of writing, supported Garmin models include the Edge 550, 850, and 1050. The Edge 540, 840, 1040, and Edge MTB are also compatible, with integration available through Garmin’s public Beta program.

Once an Edge is connected, the Garmin display will show essential e-bike data, including rider power, cadence, and speed. Other metrics, such as total distance, battery charge percentage, remaining range, and the status of Bosch’s eBike Lock theft protection feature can also be seen.
When implemented, a smart Range feature will be able to show estimated remaining distance based on the rider’s planned course.

By allowing its systems to pair with Garmin devices (and those from other brands), Bosch aims to give more flexibility to its users. It allows Bosch-equipped e-bikes to use the rider’s preferred digital setups instead of forcing them to use only its proprietary hardware or the Flow app. It is also more economical, as it doesn’t require a separate power meter to be added.

Additionally, Bosch announced a few upcoming features and products. Later this year, it will release a 12A charger capable of charging three times faster than its current 4A chargers. The brand claims its ultra-fast charger will be able to charge a PowerTube 800 battery to 50% in just an hour. The device should be available toward the end of 2026.

At around the midpoint of this year, riders will also be able to adjust the length of the overrun of the Extended Boost feature with some motors. The overrun for each riding mode will be able to be customized separately in the eBike Flow app, providing up to 2.2 yards of extra power for overcoming technical sections with enough room for only a partial pedal stroke.

Finally, a Drivetrain Tensioner feature will soon be available for the Performance Line CX and CX-R motors. which will improve motor response for improved control and performance in technical sections when in eMTB+ and Race modes.

Our Take:
While Bosch has, relatively firmly, placed itself on the side of delivering natural-feeling pedal assist that doesn’t entirely supplant rider effort, the Performance Update 2.0 seems to be the company’s way of acknowledging consumer demand for more power.

We’re curious to experience the updated programming to see how the power delivery feels. Having experienced high-torque motors from Bosch’s rivals, the 120 Nm maximum sounds promising—as does the Garmin integration, Drivetrain Tensioner feature, and customization for Extended Boost.

Bosch’s continued development and commitment to the refinement of its products shows why the brand is a staple among high-end e-bikes. As demand for higher power output grows, there now seem to be two camps: one in favor of pushing limits and another that prefers a more conservative approach. The Performance Update 2.0 seems to be a way to stand in one camp while perhaps luring riders from the other.

This partnership between Tern and BikeInsure is a multi-year agreement designed to give Tern customers easier access to dedicated e-bike insurance. Considering that electric bikes are often excluded from homeowners and auto insurance policies, owners without standalone insurance may be left without meaningful protection for their high-value e-bikes.

While Tern has an excellent warranty that accompanies its products, the program is also meant to fill a gap that standard manufacturer warranties do not cover. A warranty may cover defects in materials or workmanship, but it typically does not cover theft or accidental damage—both things that are covered under BikeInsure’s plans.

Steve Boyd, Tern’s GM in North America, said, “Electric bikes represent a meaningful investment, and customers want clarity on how to protect that investment from unexpected events. Our collaboration with BikeInsure simplifies that decision with a two-minute enrollment for a dedicated electric bike insurance solution covering new and previously purchased Tern e-bikes, including valued non-stock accessories. This approach allows Tern customers to enjoy their bikes with greater peace of mind and ride with confidence.”

Since BikeInsure’s coverage is a standalone policy, claims are handled directly through the company, and therefore, do not affect a rider’s homeowners or renters insurance policy. The company claims to have a streamlined claims process that can help customers repair or replace their bike quickly after a covered loss. Additionally, its deductibles are reportedly low, though we expect that will vary depending on the bike in question.

BikeInsure offers plans for many new and previously-purchased Tern e-bikes, allowing riders who already rely on the company’s folding or cargo e-bikes to get coverage. Signup is designed to be fast and simple; those interested can get more information through the Bike Insurance page on Tern’s website.

Our Take:
While we don’t support e-bike insurance being made mandatory (this is a separate issue), we’ve received a variety of questions and comments from readers and viewers who are interested in getting coverage. After all, an e-bike is an investment that most riders would be upset to lose. Plans such as those from BikeInsure could offer peace of mind for many consumers.

Considering that Tern’s products are often relatively high in cost, it makes sense for the brand to partner with an insurance company that can offer plans to owners of its premium e-bikes. It’s encouraging to hear that BikeInsure is putting a focus on the user-friendliness of its application and claims process. We hope to hear that the company follows through on providing a useful, affordable, and easy solution for e-bike insurance.

RUX, a maker of soft, weatherproof storage bags and containers, sent us their small Cooler Cube to try out. This cooler/lunchbox can fit food and/or beverages—up to a full 6-pack—keeping them cool and dry until the end of your ride.

The cooler uses a dry-bag design and durable construction, and is made of nylon fabric coated with heavy duty polyurethane. It also uses memory foam to create an insulating barrier and protective layer for the goods stored inside. This construction allows it to pack flat when needed while effectively keeping its contents cool and protected.

• Carries 5L
• Four can fit into a 25L RUX Cooler Bag or RUX Bag
• Measures 8.6 x 6.3 x 6.3 in
• Features multiple lash points for various ways of mounting it or tying it down
• Compatible with a shoulder strap or silicone straps to wrap around a handlebar
• Available in 4 colors
• Costs around $80

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• What city e-bike is best for a rider seeking low weight, a throttle, integrated tech, and at least 25 miles of range?
• How does the Velotric Tempo compare to the Velotric Breeze 1?