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eBike News: New Lightweights from Trek and Coleen, eBike Bargains, Battery Sustainability & More! [VIDEOS]

In this week’s news:

  • Trek’s New Superlight eMTB
  • Coleen’s Carbon Fiber Framed Speed Pedelec
  • Porsche eCar and eBikes
  • Great Deals on Rad Power’s RadRunner Plus and Chrisson’s eOctant
  • POC’s Batteryless Helmet
  • Mody Camping-Caravan Trailers
  • Alpen’s Tern Compatible Storage Comes to North America
  • Seattle Gets Food Deliveries With the Help of eCargobikes
  • Lime’s Huge New Investment and a New eBike
  • Can the EU Makes Battery Production Sustainable?
  • Insight from Dutch Battery Repair Specialists
  • Eurobike Plans to be Back in Person for 2021

New eBikes and eBike Systems

Trek Launch New Super Light eMTB Range

Trek’s E-Caliber range have short travel suspension at 120mm front and 60mm rear and so look good for cross country style riding and general mtb trail use.

Trek recently launched a superlight range of carbon-framed eMTBs, the 2021 E-Caliber line all powered by the lightweight and removable Fazua assist system. The highest-end version of the pricey e-bike line is claimed to be the lightest full-suspension eMTB on the market. The E-Caliber is based on the non-electric Supercaliber mountain bikes Trek launched towards the end of last year.

The top end E-Caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS is claimed to weigh 15.75 kg 34.72 lbs (12.45 kg / 27.45 lbs without the motor drive) – that may or may not be the lightest emtb in the world but either way it’s mightily impressive. The Fazua mid-drive is not as powerful as the bigger, heavier mid-drives from the likes of Bosch, Shimano and Yamaha and the battery is smaller than average at 250Wh, though Trek claim is will achieve 43.5 mi / 70km range.

More on just who it is for can be seen here directly from Trek:
[Read more…] about eBike News: New Lightweights from Trek and Coleen, eBike Bargains, Battery Sustainability & More! [VIDEOS]

eBike News: Great New Californian Off Road Trails, 8.5kg eBike, Yuba, Montague & More! [VIDEOS]

In this week’s news:

  • New trails plan for Northern California’s Sierra Buttes
  • 8.5kg HPS eBike Claims World’s Lightest Tag
  • Montague’s New Full Size eFolder
  • Yuba Electrify Their Most Popular Cargo Bike
  • New Security and Storage Options from Hiplok
  • Resurrecting UK’s 1930s Cycleways Gets Official Backing
  • Halfords Petition to Legalise eScooters in the UK
  • The Dutch eBike Trend Continues to Boom

Headline News – Major Trail Project in Northern California Gains Pace

SBTS hope their new Trails Master Plan will bring economic benefits to northern California

Great news for lovers of e-bikes and the great outdoors; home to hundreds of miles of maintained multi-use trail, the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) is creating a Trails Master Plan, laying out a world-class multiple-use trail system, providing an economic recreation asset for severely disadvantaged communities across Plumas, Sierra and Lassen counties in the Lost Sierra region of Northern California. All the more impressive is that this is a volunteer-driven vision and one that SBTS say ‘is an example all can emulate, and support by donating time and resources.’

A fuller title is Trails Master Plan (TMP) for Connected Communities. The Lost Sierra Route, which covers 300 miles of breathtaking views in its most preserved form, is accessible for a variety of multi-use activities.  A key component to the Connected Communities Trails Master Plan is the proposed “Lost Sierra Route” which SBTS say ‘traverses 300 miles over breathtaking topography, jagged peaks and high alpine meadows similar to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and the John Muir Trail (JMT). But unlike the PCT and JMT, this new trans-Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range route allows for all dirt trail travelers including hikers, mountain bikers, moto riders, equestrians, trail runners, hunters, fishermen, wildlife, grandmothers and babies in backpacks.’

Small towns located along The Lost Sierra Route will feel the direct economic benefit, as the proposed trail will bring travelers directly into town. Fiscal support for these rural communities and small businesses is the backbone of the TMP, creating a deeper connection with the land and communities surrounding the Lost Sierra region.

Since its founding in 2003, SBTS has built over 100 miles of new trail and maintained 1,200 miles of the existing trail while employing a full-time Professional Trail Crew and contributing over 100,000 hours of volunteer labor.
[Read more…] about eBike News: Great New Californian Off Road Trails, 8.5kg eBike, Yuba, Montague & More! [VIDEOS]

eBikeNews: Pivot’s New Carbon, Revel NY eBike Subscription, Futuristic eScooters and Much More! [VIDEOS]

In this week’s news:

  • Pivot’s First Drop Bar, Carbon eBike
  • Crow Crowdfunds eGravel Bike
  • Revel’s New Subscription Only eBike
  • Dragon Hyperscooter a Step Closer?
  • More eMobility for Scotland
  • Will Michelin Minimise their Carbon Footprint with Windpower?
  • LEVA-EU’s Radical Zero Emission Vehicle Proposals

New eBikes & eBike Systems

New Carbon-framed eGravel Bikes from Pivot and Crow

Pivot’s E-Vault is carbon and high tech…..

The new Pivot Cycles E-Vault  is a carbon-framed dropbar eBike packed with high end tech including hollow core internal molding technology on the frame, Fazua mid-drive motor system that Pivot say ‘disengages completely so you can pedal without resistance at the push of a button’ (and the battery and much of the motor can be quickly removed if you want a ‘regular’ cycling experience) plus there is electric shifting and wireless data connectivity.

It’s described as being at home on city streets, gravel roads, rocky pavements or hardpacked singletrack. To keep it true to Pivot’s style, this new E–Vault is available in one build only: the top build. If you are a fan of high tech fitness riding the E-Vault sounds right up your street as Pivot say ‘Riders can customize their electric shifting experience, power output, integrate all their personal, fitness and bike data in one spot, allowing riders to extract more performance from their bike than ever before.’

The RRP of US$9,999 also marks the bike out but for that you get the world’s first gravel-specific electronically shifting drivetrain, the GRX Di2 with carbon wheels build meaning a claimed weight of circa 29lb / 13kg (with the battery and drive unit removed it is claimed to weigh 22.63lbs / 10.25kg).
[Read more…] about eBikeNews: Pivot’s New Carbon, Revel NY eBike Subscription, Futuristic eScooters and Much More! [VIDEOS]

Evelo Delta X Review – 2021

Summary Review: Evelo Delta X

The Evelo Delta X is a capable, aggressive commuter bike. Evelo has taken a lot of time developing this ebike, which shows in its design and performance. The Delta X provides excellent handling, quick acceleration, smooth shifting, and a powerful mid-drive motor, all of which will add up to an impressive ebike.

With 120N.m of torque from the motor and adjustable top speeds up to 28mph, there isn’t a route that’s too steep or too difficult for the Delta X. If you want a commuter that gets you quickly from A to B with relative comfort and ease, then the Delta X should be on your radar.

Overall, the Evelo Delta X is a unique bike that’s designed for the hardcore commuter. If you encounter hills on your daily route, this bike will have you feeling like a superhero as you effortlessly fly up hills. Coming in around $3700, there is no compromising on components or performance, and we appreciated the experience the Delta X provided us with.

Other ebikes we’ve tested from Evelo have all been high-quality and provided us with a great ride. The team here at Electric Bike Report has waited with much anticipation to ride the Delta X after hearing Evelo describe this bike as “the perfect blend of power, comfort, and performance – the Delta X is our fastest model.”

[Read more…] about Evelo Delta X Review – 2021

eBike News: Federal Tax Credits, Bergamont eFolder, Gocycle Teaser and Much More! [VIDEOS]

In this week’s news:

  • US Bill Giving Tax Credits for eBike Purchase Starts it Way through Congress
  • Frikar – the Latest eBike Car Announces Prices
  • Bergamont’s Funky Looking New eFolder
  • Gocycle Teaser Info on Brand New Model
  • Magic Tour Mode for Bosch Mid-drives Announced by Moustache
  • eBike Workstand
  • eBike Inspiration from How to Buy and eBike Video
  • UK’s Halfords Launch Own Brand Scooter
  • All the Latest EMicromobility and eBike Biz News

Headline News

Financial Federal Incentives Heading eBikers’ Way?

eBike tax Incentive legislation has just begun to make it’s was through Congress but it may be weeks or months before we know the final outcome

People for Bikes have been in touch with the news that the process has begun to introduce Federal legislation that would mean a tax incentive for the purchase of e-bikes by US citizens in the US, saying ‘An Electric Bicycle Tax Credit would relieve 30% of the cost of a new electric bicycle (up to $1,500 credit per bike, for bikes less than $8,000). Stay tuned for more information as we work with our partners in Congress to introduce legislation.’
[Read more…] about eBike News: Federal Tax Credits, Bergamont eFolder, Gocycle Teaser and Much More! [VIDEOS]

Proposed E-BIKE Act Would Save Consumers 30% On eBike Purchases Via Federal Tax Credit

Last Updated: Feb 12, 2021

On February 9th, 2021, Congressman Jimmy Panetta and Congressional Bike Caucus Chairman Earl Blumenaur introduced the Electric Bicycle Incentive Kickstarter for the Environment Act to the United States House of Representatives. The proposed E-BIKE act has been submitted in order to kickstart and encourage increased demand for electric bikes by way of a tax credit for all United States citizens.

Speaking on his proposed bill, Congressman Panetta had this to say:

“E-bikes are not just a fad for a select few, they are a legitimate and practical form of transportation that can help reduce our carbon emissions. My legislation will make it easier for more people from all socio-economic levels to own e-bikes and contribute to cutting our carbon output. By incentivizing the use of electric bicycles to replace car trips through a consumer tax credit, we can not only encourage more Americans to transition to greener modes of transportation, but also help fight the climate crisis.”

What is the E-BIKE act?

The proposed bill, if passed and signed into law, would result in a full refundable tax credit for those who take advantage of the proposed legislation. While the full rules and regulations surrounding the bill are currently being debated by congress, the following restrictions are part of the current bill:

  • The proposed bill would cover 30% of the purchase price of a single eBike once every three years, or twice for joint-return couples who are buying two electric bikes.
  • The new electric bike must cost less than $8,000 dollars.
  • A $1,500 dollar refundable tax credit is the maxed amount that can be awarded per bike. As such, you would receive the same credit for a $5,000 dollar eBike as you would for a $8,000 dollar eBike.
  • This is a fully refundable tax credit. Up to $1,500 dollars can be subtracted from what you owe to the government the year you purchase your eBike. If the total tax credit awarded is more than the taxes you owe, the government will pay you the excess amount.
  • The Internal Revenue Service, or IRS, will be mandated to deliver a report regarding the financial results of the proposed bill after two years. Additional adjustments may be made to the legislation based upon the findings, income tax bracket distribution, and equity of the proposed bill.

[Read more…] about Proposed E-BIKE Act Would Save Consumers 30% On eBike Purchases Via Federal Tax Credit

eBike News: NYC Bridge Cycle Lanes, Cannondale, MAXX, Esel, OYO eBikes & Lots More! [VIDEOS]

In this week’s news:

  • Bike Lanes for NYC Bridges
  • Cannondale’s New Comfort-Oriented Adventure Neo Range
  • MAXX Introduces Range Powered by Shimano’s EP8
  • Esel’s Wooden eBikes
  • Oyo’s Hydraulic Drivetrain
  • Pollution Sensing, Indicating and Self-driving eScooters!
  • Meet the Lilium eJet
  • eCargo Updates from Bristol, UK and the Netherlands
  • Utah Gears Up for the Big Gear Show

Headline News

Car Lanes to Become Bike Lanes on Two Major NY Bridges

Brooklyn Bridge – the proposed replacement of a motor vehicle lane replaced with a segregated bike lane

The New York Times reports that New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio wants to add bike lanes on two of the city’s most iconic bridges, the Brooklyn and Queensboro Bridges ‘to encourage cycling as the city recovers from the pandemic’.

NYT says ‘The new cycling plan for the two East River crossings — called “Bridges for the People” — was unveiled as part of Mayor Bill de Blasio’s final State of the City speech on Thursday. The bike lanes are the latest victory for cyclists and transportation advocates who have increasingly pushed Mr. de Blasio, a Democrat in his second term, to chip away at the entrenched car culture that has dominated the city’s more than 6,000 miles of streets.’

The current crossing of Brooklyn Bridge by cyclists has long been seen as a notorious obstacle course by cyclists.
[Read more…] about eBike News: NYC Bridge Cycle Lanes, Cannondale, MAXX, Esel, OYO eBikes & Lots More! [VIDEOS]

eScooter Laws and Regulations In The USA

Don’t worry if you are confused about the laws surrounded electric scooters – it seems much of North America is too, including lawmakers themselves. Even the naming is confusing – just to be clear when this article refers to electric scooters we mean what are also known as kickscooters and not the small step-thru motorbike type objects that can also be referred to as scooters.

Electric scooters have taken the US by storm, having gone from rarity to reality over the last few years, especially public share rentals run by the likes of Bird, Lime and Spin. But these are rentals specifically authorized, usually by particular city authorities, that only authorize the deployment and use of that particular company’s electric scooters.

Rules and regs around use of your own electric scooter need local research to make sure you comply with the law

But what about if you fancy the convenience of owning and using your own electric scooter where you live or work? Unfortunately, the state of electric scooter law is only just beginning to emerge in the United States and varies from state to state and even city to city. But before we take a look at different regulations on electric scooters across the US and Canada and look at the most commonly asked questions about them lets get an overview of federal legislation.

Federal Consumer Law – Safety Standards

Actually there isn’t any Federal Law specifically on electric scooters – The Consumer Product Safety Act of 1972 was amended by Congress in 2001 so there is now a national  definition of e-bikes in the US as they are classed as ‘a two- or three-wheeled vehicle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of fewer than 750 watts (1 h.p.), whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a motor while ridden by an operator who weighs 170 pounds, is less than 20 mph (i.e., a low-speed electric bicycle).’

The above doesn’t tell you where the e-bike can be used, it only gives a legal definition of it. Since then People for Bikes has done brilliant work lobbying for the three-class law now adopted by 28 states across the US which does tell e-bike riders where they can ride along and states have also legislated on a host of other issues for e-bikes like whether helmet use and insurance are also mandatory – clearly many of the legal issues relating to e-bike use also relate to electric scooters.
[Read more…] about eScooter Laws and Regulations In The USA

Rad Power Bikes Announces $150 Million Dollar Investment, Major Expansion Plans

On February 4th, 2021, Rad Power Bikes (one of the largest eBike brands in the world) announced a minority investment totaling $150 million dollars. The new round of investment was led by Counterpoint Global (Morgan Stanley), Fidelity Management & Research Company, The Rise Fund, and other accounts advised by T. Rowe Price Associates. Durable Capital Partners LP and Vulcan Capital, who have invested in Rad Power Bikes previously, also contributed to this historic new round of investment.

rad-power-bikes-radmission

With the new funding and pledge of support from major experienced investor companies like Morgan Stanley, Rad Power Bikes hopes to rely on their expertise to accelerate its bike development plans. In a statement made by Mike Radenbaugh, founder and CEO of Rad Power Bikes:

“We are thrilled to be working with this group of prestigious investors who are known for successful, long-term investments, and share our vision for the future of mobility. Demand for our products has outpaced our wildest projections every year and this partnership is helping us accelerate in-house innovation while creating more of what our customers tell us they love. I can’t wait for everyone to see what we will deliver in 2021 and beyond.”

Continued Growth For One of the World’s Most Recognizable eBike Brands:

Founded in 2015, Rad Power Bikes first made a name for themselves with their flagship electric bike, the RadRover Electric Fat Tire bike. Since their initial release, Rad Power Bikes has grown to be the most popular eBike brand in North America, with 11 unique models to choose from for a wide range of cyclists. It is estimated that more than 200,000 unique riders ride Rad Power Bikes equipment every day, with Rad Power Bikes a major eBike brand in over 30 different countries around the world.

With this new funding, Rad Power Bikes hopes to accelerate its expansion plans and further increase the popularity of Rad Power Bikes around the world. With 325 employees currently working for Rad Power Bikes, one of the major goals now set by the company is to more than double the size of their company team by the end of 2021. Rad Power Bikes has now begun to interview new applicants living in North America, Europe, and Asian territories.
[Read more…] about Rad Power Bikes Announces $150 Million Dollar Investment, Major Expansion Plans

Tips for Riding Electric Bikes in Snow and Ice

Do you garage your e-bike as temperatures plummet and as snow and ice appear? Maybe you think its’s dangerous or even not possible to ride in the worst of winter conditions but as we demonstrate below, e-bikes can be the perfect tool for riding in snow and ice. In fact, once you get the hang of it, you might find yourself grabbing the e-bike and heading out for magical, snowy winter rides…

Riding in snow can be an awe-inspiring experience (copyright Richard Peace)

What Kind of eBike?

It really does depend on what kind of winter weather you get. I’ve ridden an electric powered Brompton with a front hub motor and skinny road tires on through snow, and this has all the worst attributes for an e-bike you would want to ride in snowy or icy conditions, though it does go to show what is possible. Wheel and tire (or “tyre” in the UK) size and design are particularly important when e-biking in snow. E-bikes for riding in snow and ice should ideally (but not necessarily) have:

  • Larger wheels to make for a larger contact patch, providing more grip
  • Larger volume tires with aggressive tread – again widening the contact patch with the tread providing extra grip too.
  • In particularly icy conditions or on very compacted snow, studded tires provide the ultimate in grip and if you live in a real winter climate with snow and ice for many weeks or months of the year studded ice tires might prove give you the confidence to venture out in just about any conditions.

Even narrow road width tires with some tread on can provide good grip on pretty fresh snow, as here (copyright Richard Peace)

Of course, electric road bikes and other frame designs with narrow fork drop-outs simply won’t accommodate much wider tires and so the heavier the snow and ice the more they are at a disadvantage. That said I’ve ventured out many times in winter with patchy or thin snow and ice on the ground on my e-powered Brompton fitted with regular Schwalbe Marathon commuting tires. Indeed many road and e-road bike riders find that changing from ‘skinny’, faster summer tires to winter tires with  just a bit more width and tread can make all the difference when there is just a moderate amount of snow and ice about.
[Read more…] about Tips for Riding Electric Bikes in Snow and Ice

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