Swytch Technology has revealed its latest DIY eBike kit that is compatible with most pedal bikes on sale today and offers up to 60 miles of electric assistance at speeds up to 15 mph in most markets.
The idea is that anyone can benefit from the extra oomph that an electric motor provides, with the latest Swytch GO kit containing a new frame-mounted battery with a capacity of 187Wh to 378Wh, a new front wheel with a built-in motor of 250W, clip-on pedal sensor and an optional LED display that can be easily mounted on the handlebars.
Most people with a little bike maintenance should be able to pull off a simple install, while this latest package aims to get the masses moving on two wheels, with a budget reserve price of just $349/£299 ( around AU). $525 in Australia). If you don't want to join the pre-order queue, the kit costs $799/£599 (around AU$1,200) to purchase right away.
Alternatively, Swytch also offers a monthly payment package set at £28 per month for UK customers. If you're in the US, you can expect to pay between $35 and $40 for the same option.
What's more, buyers can choose from three battery sizes, with performance and price increasing as you move up the range. GO, GO+ and GO++ offer between 15 and 60 miles of power assistance, depending on driving style and terrain.
Red Dot Design Award winner Swytch has been working hard to reduce the size of its GO battery packs, which used to clip onto the handlebars and looked a bit cumbersome hanging off the front, especially on sleek hybrid or urban machines.
Now, the IPX6 waterproof-rated battery pack clips neatly to the top tube and seat tube on most bikes, staying neatly out of the way by sitting flush with the frame.
According to the company, it has already sold 85,000 kits worldwide, but it hopes this lighter, cheaper and more versatile package will encourage more pedal bike users to switch to electric ones.
Analysis: engines for the masses
Considering most of the best e-bikes cost at least $1000 / £1000 / AU$1500), the new Swytch GO kit is one of the most affordable ways to transform any old bike into something that helps with the daily commute. .
Despite the work done to redesign the overall package, some will still find it a bit clunky, with the battery needing to be removed and stored when parked to prevent thieves from making off with its power source.
But the company has managed to simplify the installation process, improve the performance of its batteries and motors, as well as significantly reduce the cost of its overall package.
What's more, transforming your existing commuter bike into an electric bike also means there's no need to buy a new one, saving the customer money and reducing the number of natural resource-depleting products that factories around the world are dealing with. busy producing.
If this breaks down the fitness barriers associated with pedal cycling, allows more people to travel on two wheels and reduces car trips, that can only be a good thing.
