What's next in electric bikes

As we know it

The modern city has increasing vehicular traffic. Population on the roads, pollution of the air and lack of parking spaces are growing problems. And the solution seems to lie in the electric bike or e-bike as it is popularly called. It is a battery powered bicycle that is fast replacing the fossil fuel-based motorbikes in most of the developed nations. With a speed range between 30 to 40 kmh and their pollution-free nature, they are becoming the preferred mode of transport in urban areas.

Electric bike

Need for change

Electric bikes are the way ahead for reasons more than one. They are pollution-free for one and occupy very little parking space. They save money on fuel and and keep you fit at the same time. They are a faster mode of transport on traffic clogged streets and are fun to ride too. Finally, they save you the hassled of getting a registration, license and auto insurance! The world definitely needs to taking up e-biking in a big way.

Whats next?

While the idea of e-bikes has existed, there are newer styles and modifications that have come now. Let's take a look at the future of e-biking.

1. City Electric Bicycle

City Electric Bicycle

This creation from Vojtěch Sojka could have only come from someone who is into technology. From the University of Technology in the Czech Republic, we have a bike that is elegant in design and style. It is 'green' in nature and makes for a super riding experience. This amazing looking bike comes with the option to power it electrically too and the battery has been neatly built into the seat stem below the saddle. The stem, frame and handlebars are all part of a single unit and are very light.

The rear wheel comes with a hub from the reputed Shimano Alfine. The pedal propels the wheel via a strong and durable carbon belt which solves all the de-linking and slipping of the traditional chains. The bike will surely floor anyone with its looks. There are no mudguards and that adds to the cool quotient of the bike. The handlebars and short for better control and ease of riding. The bike has been provided with disc brakes for perfect control.

2. E-bike

E-bike

At first glance, this bike looks a bit uncomfortable and clumsy. It also appears flimsy. But all these are at first glance alone! The first ride in itself will show you how wonderful it actually is. This is an electric bike that has a well concealed battery in the seat tube. The amazing novelty about it is its foldability. With a single push from the foot, the bike folds up into a compact little object. You need not even lift the bike off the floor to fold it. And once folded, the design is such that the two wheels come parallel in alignment and thus can simply be pushed around. This is a real boon for urban and suburban life.

The bike can be lugged around easily, even in public transportation. Hop off the bus or tram and use your own private transportation to get to your destination! Cool isn't it? This will also wipe out all your fears of your bike getting stolen for you can be there to keep it close to you always. The embedded battery power helps when you are tired or want a boost of speed. The E-bike is green in every conceivable way along with being light and elegant also. The tall seat and short handlebars get you into an ergonomically correct position on the unisex bike.

3. Tharula Electric Bike Concept

Tharula Electric Bike Concept

Hey! Just a minute please! What on earth is this thing? Like all things in life, it is a matter of perspective. Bicycle design seems to have come a complete circle with the latest concept model mirroring the design and shape of the first models of bicycles. With a huge front wheel and small back wheel, this bike is sure to attract a lot of attention on the roads today. But then, it has been slated as a design for 2025.

The Tharula is different for it provides the option of pedaling with the hands along with the feet. And so, if you want to add a little speed boost, you just have to put your hands to work. Or you could power up the electric power stored in the batteries. The rims and wheels are neat and cool and the Ferrari red that has been used on the entire bike is a definite plus.

There are a few refinements that the bike may however need. The seat looks a bit uncomfortable in the concept design at least. There is no proof that this design is better than the 'same-sized wheels' one. The batteries do not last very long. But then, since it is a bike for 2025, we have no idea of how much more compact technology will be then right?