YikeBike, electric bike

One interesting thing with our time, is this sort of gold rush of electric vehicles. It seems that a new product pops up every week, innovative, offbeat, sometimes practical, sometimes less, but always exciting. It does not reinvent the wheel, but progress in miniaturization, computing engines, and especially batteries allow for unparalleled freedom of invention. From concept to realityThe only obstacle now is the talent and resources. The first does not fail, the latter is more random but can serve as a filter, saving us many of incongruity.

With a featherweight 10kg and pliable, this bike is positioned as an urban alternative to the subway for short distances. Giving from September to October km on a charge, YikeBike is faster than walking, it can reach 25 km / h, but does not replace the traditional bike for long trips. Urban foremost, it is an additional option, for whom mobility and autonomy are important. The lithium-phosphate (safer and cheaper than lithium-ion) batteries will recharge to 80% in 20 minutes. The regenerative braking with ABS, and the bike can take a load up to 100kg. Available almost everywhere in Europe from the end of June (2010) from 3500 Euros.

By cons, there is always legal uncertainty regarding this type of conveyance in respect of its territory. Is the street with cars, the sidewalk with pedestrians, with or without helmet, license or not, that’s asking a lot of questions answered before leaving the checkbook or plastic card.