The UK’s bike shops have in recent weeks been visited by the Office for Product Safety and Standards, specifically addressing “risks and responsibilities” associated with e-bikes and e-scooters.
As noted by Bikebiz, this activity coincided with the lead-up to the launch of E-Bike Positive, a new initiative with wide industry support, which aims to help the public safely navigate the world of e-Bikes.
The visits focused on guidance notes for retailers stocking, selling, and working on e-bikes, and an advice note was shared, titled: “Prevention of fires caused by dangerous e-bikes and e-scooters”.
A video shared on the Bikebiz site from a bike shop owner showcased some of the concerns and questions about this approach; while shops are able to take steps to work on branded bike products with known provenance, many bikes and kits are sold by retailers and online marketplaces outside the traditional cycling industry.
The Bicycle Association (BA) has engaged closely with the Office for Product Safety and Standards, the UK product safety regulator which sets policy for Trading Standards, on issues around e-bike safety, and we’ve previously noted to our member companies that this campaign is underway.
We believe the industry should welcome the recent intense scrutiny from Trading Standards on the e-bike sector, especially around the repair and conversion of potentially higher-risk e-bikes.
This work will help protect the reputation of the very safe products provided by responsible suppliers and retailers.
The guidance highlighted in the video about being sure of the safety of e-bike systems you may work on is excellent and common sense advice.
We’d also suggest that anyone in the e-bike business check out the other resources we’ve compiled on this issue on this subject, including both further official Government advice and industry guidance from ourselves and others.
Swiss speed-pedelec brand reflects on company success in the fastest e-bike category
This year marks the 15th anniversary of Swiss speed pedelec manufacturer and LEVA-EU member Stromer, renowned as a leader in the fastest e-bike segment. Tomi Viiala, co-CEO of Stromer, reflects on the company’s journey to its current status as a leading innovator in the e-bike industry.
Innovative beginnings
Inspired by new technologies, Stromer’s founder Thomas Binggeli aimed to create a fast e-bike with a unique design, which led to the creation of the Stromer V1, featuring a rear-wheel drive, high power, a sporty design, and an integrated battery. Binggeli has since left, and Tomi Viiala has been co-CEO since June 2022. Viiala recalls, “Founder Binggeli started with a clear idea to create an electric bike unlike any other with the Stromer V1. The second phase of Stromer involved entering the international market with the ST2 in 2014, the world’s first fully connected speed pedelec.”
Setting new standards
Stromer has consistently pushed the boundaries of e-bike pricing and innovation, which has lead to higher costs for its models. Viiala clarifies that Stromer does not aim to be the most expensive but that its focus on integrating new ideas and safety innovations can often result in increased prices.
Strategic partnerships for safety and innovation
Stromer has formed a strategic partnership with Spoke Safety to integrate V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) communication technology into its models by 2026. This technology will enhance road safety by enabling real-time communication between vehicles and surrounding infrastructure. Viiala believes this innovation, despite increasing costs, will be valued by consumers.
Stromer is also collaborating with High-Tech Energy to develop a solid-state ceramic battery, a safer and faster-charging alternative to current Li-ION batteries. This ambitious project is targeted for 2027/2028, and promises significant advancements in battery technology and safety.
Expanding market reach
Stromer is known for its speed pedelecs but has also ventured into the regular e-bike market. Despite a less successful initial attempt, Stromer’s new brand, Desiknio, aims to revolutionize the 25 km/h bike market. Viiala noted that Desiknio is a niche brand with potential, similar to Stromer when it started, but with lightweight e-bikes that cater to those who prefer traditional bikes but appreciate the benefits of electric assistance.
Looking ahead
As Stromer celebrates its 15th anniversary, Viiala foresees continued leadership in mobility innovation. He envisions Stromer as a pioneer in the premium e-bike segment, setting new standards in connectivity and digitization. The company is currently rebranding with a fresh color scheme in its logo, anticipating many new developments in the coming years.
With Stromer’s commitment to innovation and safety, coupled with strategic partnerships, it aims to be a leader in the e-bike industry for many more years.
Read the full article about Stromer’s anniversary here.
Insurance company and LEVA-EU member Laka, and Dutch bicycle manufacturer Tenways, are entering into a partnership.
As part of this partnership, Tenways customers have the opportunity to request a quote for Laka insurance when purchasing online, and can add Laka insurance to their shopping cart when purchasing a Tenways e-bike. Once the purchase is complete, they will receive an email invitation to activate their new insurance. Along with the built-in GPS and motion detection feature on Tenways’ CGO009 e-bike, this shows Laka and Tenways’ commitment to stopping bicycle thieves and protecting cyclists.
The partnership with Tenways complements Laka’s existing network of micromobility brands across Europe such as Gazelle, Riese & Mueller and Decathlon. Tobias Taupitz, CEO of Laka, says of the partnership with Tenways: “It’s great that Tenways is joining us. We are excited to see how the partnership develops and expands into more territories. Laka looks forward to working with Tenways to provide customers with a seamless shopping experience and differentiated service”.
Byron Aub, Subscription Business Manager at Tenways, adds: “Our mission at Tenways is to provide our customers with reliable, stylish and fun e-bikes. Partnering with Laka allows us to offer an additional layer of safety and peace of mind, ensuring our customers are protected every step of their ride. Together, we are committed to a greener, more sustainable world while providing exceptional value and support”.
The energy supplier Eon has conducted a survey on the rising popularity of e-bikes. According to their findings, nearly a quarter of the population now owns an e-bike, with a notable increase among younger individuals.
“Electric bike popularity is hitting new heights. Currently, one in four people in Germany owns an electric bike, the highest since our first survey in 2020,” states Jens Michael Peters, Managing Director of Energy Solutions at Eon Energie Deutschland.
The survey reveals that 24.7 percent of Germans own an electric bicycle, up from 23.3 percent in 2023 and 15.2 percent in 2020. E-bike ownership has grown significantly among 18- to 29-year-olds, rising from 13.8 percent in 2023 to 17.5 percent. The highest ownership rates are among people aged 50 to 64 (27.4 percent) and those over 65 (27.7 percent).
Regional differences
When looking at the federal states, Lower Saxony leads with 32.6 percent of residents owning an e-bike, followed by Baden-Württemberg (27.4 percent), Bavaria (26.4 percent), Schleswig-Holstein (26.2 percent), and North Rhine-Westphalia (26 percent). Emsland and Bentheim counties top the list nationwide, with 47.3 percent ownership each, followed by Leer (42.6 percent), Wittmund (41.8 percent), and Aurich (41 percent). Eon provides a detailed visualization of these regional results.
Sustainabilities role in purchasing and charging
Around 40.7 percent of e-bike owners use green electricity for charging, and 28.8 percent of potential buyers are considering switching to a green electricity tariff. Additionally, 21.5 percent of e-bike owners chose their bikes for sustainability reasons, like reduced emissions compared to cars. Among e-bike models, city e-bikes are the most popular (37.3 percent), followed by trekking e-bikes (26.4 percent) and e-mountain bikes (15.9 percent).
A popular means of transport for holidays and commuting
E-bikes are also popular for holidays and commuting. In the past year, 12.5 percent of Germans used an e-bike while on holiday, with nine percent using their own and 3.5 percent renting locally. Looking ahead, 36.3 percent are considering using an e-bike on their next holiday, especially among 18- to 29-year-olds (46.1 percent). Additionally, 25 percent of Germans are contemplating a multi-day e-bike trip.
For commuting, 6.8 percent of employed individuals regularly use e-bikes, and 34.5 percent are interested in leasing a company bike to save on purchase costs. Already, 13.2 percent of employed 18- to 29-year-olds use an employer-provided e-bike option.
Recent study reveals that 54% of Dutch people ride an electric bicycle
Various insights into the behaviour and attitudes of Dutch cyclists are available in the results of research commissioned by Netherlands-based e-bike refurbishers Upway.
The online survey, conducted by research agency iVOX between May 8 and May 17, 2024, gathered answers to a range of questions from 2,000 Dutch people on a variety of cycling-related topics. A number of insights can be gleaned from the results:
Age: 61% of people over the age of 55 choose an e-bike, while for those under 35 the figure is 51%.
Ownership and frequency: 54% of Dutch people currently use an e-bike, with 39% doing so at least weekly.
Stated preferences for e-bikes: 32% of respondents cite ease of use; 20% answered ‘Because it gets me to my destination faster’; 25% answered ‘because I can cover greater distances with it’.
Cargo bike usage: Of those surveyed, 7% rode an electric cargo bike, and 4% rode a non-electric version. Riders of electric cargo bikes cited two notable reasons for their use: 22% said ‘Because it is economically more advantageous than a car’, while 19% said ‘Because it is so easy to use’.
Cycling infrastructure: Overall, the respondents are generally positive towards the cycling-friendliness and layout of roads in their area, with 77% reporting a positive opinion, though cargo bike users are a little more critical with 61% having a positive opinion.
Feelings of safety: 94% of e-bike riders reported feeling safer than average in traffic, while 57% of these said they feel safer on an electric bike than on a traditional bike. In contrast, 80% of traditional-cycle riders felt safest on a non-electric bike.
Risk-taking behaviour: Only 10% of Dutch people say they always wear a helmet when cycling. 36% of e-bike riders ignore a red light – more often than non-electric bike riders. Dangerous situations involving electric bicycle users involve excessive speed (31%), inattention (15%) or lack of control (13%), while tradtional bike riders sometimes create dangerous situations by violating traffic rules (21%), inattention (28%) or cycling where it is not allowed (11%).
Comments Off on Stromer receives Red Dot ‘Best of the Best’ Design Award
The Swiss e-bike manufacturer has received the highest praise from the Red Dot jury for its ST5 Pinion electric bike
Swiss electric bike manufacturer Stromer’s new ST5 Pinion e-bike has received Red Dot’s highest accolade from design experts, The Best of the Best Award, highlighting its outstanding product design and quality to the world.
This is not the first time Stromer has received a product design award of this calibre, last year its flagship ST7 received the same award, marking a successful few years for its e-bike product designs.
Stromer ST5 Pinion, winner of Red Dot Best of the Best Award
Stromer’s ST5 Pinion features an aluminium frame and fork, an 850W hub motor, and Pinion’s C1.9 Smart Shift internal gear system. It uses a Gates carbon belt instead of a chain, which is rare for a multi-gear e-bike. It also features Stromer’s state-of-the-art anti-lock braking system, which was developed in conjunction with Blubrake and TRP.
Stromer’s latest award-winning model is a class 3 pedelec with a maximum assist speed of 45km/h and a range of up to 180km on a full charge. It is also equipped with a Pinion C1.9 drivetrain that provides riders with nine gears and can shift smoothly and silently, whether they are pedalling or standing still. Finally, it offers users an extra level of safety with Bluetooth connectivity.
Comments Off on Shinga Lacros Scamper S600XL ranked ‘Best-in-Test’ for folding e-bikes
After numerous tests with the Fietstest.nl panel, this model has collectively received the highest scores in the folding electric bike category.
Lacros‘ Scamper S600XL has once again been awarded the best in test by the panel of Fietstest.nl, with a high score of 8. This news highlights another triumph for the folding e-bike brand, whose Scamper S600XL also came out on top in 2022, with other models from the brand also receiving top marks from Fietstest.nl over the years.
Lacros is delighted with this achievement, stating that this recognition “confirms the top quality and reliability of Lacros” and thanks its customers for their continued trust and support.
The folding electric bicycle manufacturer has an experienced and passionate team that offers test rides, personalized advice on various models and maintenance checks. They also look forward to giving more people the opportunity to experience their latest range at trade shows this year.
Comments Off on Bafang presents revolutionary Gear Variable Transmission (GVT) technology platform and new 5-speed automatic gear hub
Spearheading a new era for the shifting experience, Bafang proudly introduces its innovative Gear Variable Transmission (GVT) technology platform, along with its latest creation based on GVT—the G500A, an internal 5-speed automatic shift hub designed for high-powered eFat bikes. Offering a groundbreaking shift experience for eBikes, G500A is debuting at the 2024 China Cycle Show.
Breaking Cycling Boundaries with the Revolutionary GVT Technology Platform
GVT, short for Gear Variable Transmission, represents years of meticulous research and development by Bafang. This technology elevates the eBike shifting experience to a new level with precise automatic shifting mechanisms and advanced transmission control, creating seamless and smooth gear changes that aligns the eBike and rider as one, turning what was once merely a concept into reality. Products featuring GVT technology are belt-drive-friendly and offer a high degree of integration, enabling greater design possibilities. Moreover, GVT significantly reduces common maintenance issues and durability concerns found in existing shift systems, thus extending the overall lifespan of eBikes.
“Over the past 3 years, we have launched the automatic hub motor and the automatic gear hub series, both of which have received positive feedback from various markets. We are very proud and honored,” said Zou, the chief engineer of the Bafang GVT. “It is this motivation that has led us to decide to give it an official name, to better acquaint everyone with it. Regarding the GVT technology platform, in the future, we will further interpret it through more innovations.”
The 5-Speed Automatic Gear hub – The Latest GVT Technology
As the latest innovation on the GVT platform, the G500A is a 5-speed automatic gear hub specifically crafted for high-powered fat-tire eBikes, designed to effectively tackle challenging terrains like snow and sand. G500A can withstand torque ratings of over 200Nm and supports speeds of 45km/h and 60km/h. It is available with 175mm and 190mm dropout options to accommodate most eFat bikes.
Bafang’s commitment to quality and reliability is reflected in its rigorous testing standards. Each of the five gears in the G500A undergoes at least 10,000 impact tests, ensuring durability and rider confidence.
G500A simulated load testing
With the introduction of the GVT technology platform, Bafang aims to set a new benchmark for drive system reliability and durability in the eBike industry. As the GVT platform continues to evolve, Bafang is developing more ground-breaking products, underscoring its commitment to leading the industry towards higher technological standards and user experiences.
E-bikes are popular but expensive. Recent studies confirm this. Electric retrofit drives, such as the Pendix eDrive, offer an alternative solution. They can be installed without major modifications and equip regular bicycles with the advantages of e-bikes.
Cycling is becoming increasingly popular in Germany, as shown by the SINUS Institute and BMDV’s 2023 Bicycle Monitor. According to the monitor, a quarter of respondents plan to purchase a bicycle or pedelec (electric pedal-assist bicycle) in 2024. Pedelecs, commonly referred to as e-bikes in Germany, are particularly favored, with 48 percent of potential buyers interested in acquiring such a bike.
The amount people are willing to spend on these bikes averages slightly over 1,400 euros, according to the study. However, there’s a catch: e-bikes are generally much more expensive. EY, a consulting firm, noted in its 2023 bicycle study that electric bikes in Germany are among the most expensive in Europe, averaging around 2,800 euros per e-bike. Nevertheless, this shouldn’t deter cyclists from opting for electric biking. After all, there are alternatives in the form of retrofit electric drives. These are typically not only cheaper than buying an e-bike but also offer additional benefits.
Electrical Upgrade for Your Favourite Bike
One example of such a retrofit drive is the Pendix eDrive. It consists of a gearless mid-drive motor and a battery. Both can be installed on almost all frame models and types of bicycles with a so-called BSA bottom bracket. The motor is directly built onto the bottom bracket, while the battery can often be mounted on the screw holes for the bottle cage. For those who swear by their existing bicycle but still want electric assistance, this provides a practical solution: your favourite bike can be transformed into an e-bike in a short time. The familiar riding feel and appearance remain intact, essentially just upgraded.
Move Further, Ride More Relaxed
With the additional electric assistance, several things change, including increased range and agility. Motors like the Pendix eDrive provide pedal assistance up to a speed of 25 kilometres per hour. This allows for tackling longer distances or hilly terrain without the rider becoming overly exhausted. The Pendix eDrive offers three different battery options, allowing for ranges of 37 to 240 kilometres depending on the model, external conditions, and riding style. Charging time with a 160-watt charger ranges from two to three hours.
Such a retrofit drive can also be adjusted to individual fitness levels. For example, the Pendix eDrive offers three modes, ranging from light, barely noticeable pedal assistance to up to 200 percent additional pedal power. This provides assistance in all riding situations, from leisurely rides on flat terrain to mountain crossings with steep inclines, loose surfaces, or strong headwinds. The optional app allows for further fine-tuning of assistance levels.
The bicycle remains a bicycle
If one wishes to engage in a more intense workout, the electric assistance can be deactivated at any time. Due to its gearless construction, a motor like the Pendix eDrive adds little weight when turned off, resulting in no significant pedal resistance. Additionally, the drive is completely silent, preserving the familiar feel of riding one’s own bike.
A retrofit drive can also help bring together people of different ages and fitness levels. With individual electric assistance, the entire family can ride together on a spring tour without anyone feeling overwhelmed or left behind, whether it’s grandparents or parents with children on child seats.
Support for Everyday Activities
A retrofit electric drive not only provides a more relaxed and sporty riding experience on family outings or off-road adventures but also offers support in everyday life. Those who frequently transport groceries or work materials by bike or take their children to daycare will experience relief and arrive at their destination more relaxed and less exhausted. A retrofit electric motor like the Pendix eDrive is suitable for cyclists of all ages.
Older generations, in particular, stand to benefit. Retrofitting without major changes to habits can provide them with greater participation and keep them mobile and active, whether running errands or pursuing leisure activities—hills, additional weight from bags, or long distances are no longer obstacles. Thus, the bike remains a constant companion in every stage of life.
Uncomplicated Enhancement of the Bicycle
In addition to the cost efficiency of the retrofit solution compared to purchasing a new e-bike, there are other economic aspects. The familiar bike experiences an increase in usability and resale value. There are also maintenance benefits. A system like the Pendix eDrive, with its gearless construction, is not only compact and lightweight compared to other designs but also wear-free and maintenance-free. This saves costs and ensures longevity. And if one eventually wants to exchange their current bike, transitioning to a new bike with the Pendix eDrive is simple.
It doesn’t necessarily have to be a used bike that receives an upgrade through the electric motor. Numerous manufacturers integrate such solutions directly into their factory models. Additionally, at partner retailers, a regular new bike can be purchased and equipped on-site with a Pendix eDrive. While retrofitting the motor and battery is relatively easy for those with DIY skills, the manufacturer recommends safe and reliable installation by a professional dealer.
For more information on installation requirements, features, variants, and technical data of the retrofit motor, visit: https://pendix.de/edrive
About Pendix: Established in 2013, bicycle drive manufacturer Pendix is part of the Pendix Group. Since its introduction to the market in 2015, Pendix GmbH’s employees have focused on the development and marketing of products such as the Pendix eDrive, the hub motor Pendix eDrive IN, and the integrated mid-drive Pendix gDrive. The drives, components, and bicycles are distributed or utilized by more than 750 authorized Pendix dealers, 37 bicycle manufacturers worldwide, and 35 industrial customers. Pendix is driven by quality, sustainability, reliability, and smart technologies, aiming to deliver the best possible quality and make a contribution to the environment. Since 2022, Johnson Electric International AG has been the majority shareholder of Pendix GmbH.
Campaign success
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua.
Member profile
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua.
