Source: BikeBiz Image credit: Bike Biz

The LEVA-EU member has announced that its innovative click-on e-bike system is now available through Ribble, one of the UK’s longest-established bicycle manufacturers. Developed in collaboration with Red Bull Advanced Technologies, the Skarper system will be offered alongside Ribble’s existing range of integrated e-bikes, giving customers greater flexibility in how and when they use electric assistance.

By stocking Skarper, Ribble enables riders to add temporary electric support to its non-electric bikes without committing to a permanently integrated e-bike. Customers will also be able to design a bespoke bicycle using Ribble’s Bike Builder platform and include the Skarper drive system as part of their build.

Skarper’s click-on e-bike system is available to purchase immediately online and through Ribble’s four UK showrooms. Its full integration with Ribble’s Bike Builder is scheduled to launch in February, alongside the introduction of test rides in selected showrooms.

Ribble welcomes modular electric assistance

Commenting on the partnership, Ribble CEO Sean Hastings highlighted the appeal of the system’s flexibility.

“We love the idea of Ribble riders being able to use their acoustic bike but have the flexibility of occasional electric assistance, without it being a permanent thing. The Skarper system complements our award-winning range of lightweight integrated e-bikes, with the potential to bring a new lease of life to an existing bike and the benefit of being shareable across several bikes.”

Removable assistance across multiple disciplines

For the first time, riders can add a removable electric assist option to Ribble’s range of road, gravel and adventure bikes. The Skarper system allows a conventional high-performance bicycle to be converted into an e-bike in seconds, and just as quickly returned to a fully non-electric setup.

A key advantage of the Skarper system is its portability. A single unit can be shared across multiple bikes, making it suitable for use among family members or across a rider’s collection of performance and leisure bicycles.

Addressing everyday riding challenges

Skarper is designed to assist cyclists who may want electric support on hills, into headwinds or during longer rides, while still retaining the feel and familiarity of their existing non-electric bike. The system also helps riders keep pace with faster companions or stay together on group and family rides, without requiring them to abandon the bicycle they already own.

Skarper CEO highlights strategic importance of Ribble partnership

Skarper CEO Ean Brown described the collaboration as a significant representation of the company’s approach.

“Ribble represents everything we admire: British engineering, beautiful design, and an obsession with ride quality. When a brand like Ribble – with 128 years of heritage and a world-class e-bike range already – chooses to stock Skarper, it validates our approach. We’re proud to be part of their offering.”

A snapshot of highlights from Skarper’s click on e-bike system:

• Form factor: 4.5 kg detachable drive unit with DiskDrive® rotor interface
• Power & control: 250 W nominal assist; Eco / Cruise / Turbo modes via app
• Top torque: 76 Nm for smooth, hill-friendly assistance
• Battery & charging: 240 Wh; 80% charge in approximately 30 minutes; full charge in around 2.5 hours
• Range: Up to 50 km of assisted riding (dependent on mode, terrain and rider)
• Protection: IP55-rated; removable unit for added security
• Compliance: 25 km/h assist limit (UK/EU standard)
• Validation: 4.8★ “Excellent” rating on Trustpilot; winner of Red Dot and iF Design Gold awards; designed with Red Bull Advanced Technologies