This month a new startup makes the headlines as its Kickstarter campaign goes underway. UrbanX is the company, and it’s claiming to have created the world’s most economical electric bike solution. The target is to raise $50,000 for the 41-day campaign to help with the manufacturing costs of the product.
UrbanX aims to make urban bicycle commuting viable for everyone and is the quickest and easiest way to give bikes electric power. With this product, you simply replace your existing bike’s front wheel with smart wheel technology and within 60 seconds have an e-bike capable of traveling 30 miles on one single charge. The technology works on BMX’s, mountain bikes, touring bikes and more and there is no need to have any prior knowledge of the bike’s gearing in order to do it.
Eric Chow, founder, and CTO of UrbanX says, “Over the last several years, we have seen a resurgence in cycling that is especially prevalent in urban spaces across the globe. This urban transportation revolution, due mostly to common city problems such as congestion, pollution, and parking woes, has inspired various electronic developments designed to make urban commuting more efficient and rider friendly. UrbanX has taken these advances and created an economical solution that democratizes e-bike technology for all riders.”
There are two motorized smart wheels being launched, and they are the 240-watt UrbanX Eco and the 350-watt UrbanX Booster. The Eco will allow the user to reach a top speed of 15 miles per hour while the Booster will go up to 20 miles per hour. Their efficiency is achieved by utilizing the Direct Drive Mechanism and the patent-pending Sinus Algorithm Controlling System. The latter increases efficiency by converting battery stored electric energy into kinetic motor power, giving a longer range. These devices also come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity and an app that will allow the rider to monitor their riding status as they go along. This includes capturing data such as distance and speed tracking, speed levels, and battery life readouts. The wheels can also be adjusted and synced with the app to support three different pedal assist levels – low, medium, and high.
The smart wheel itself is made from aviation standard aluminum that will support up to 300 pounds. It’s powered by a 36-volt Panasonic Lithium Ion Battery and comes equipped with a built-in USB port, so you can even charge your electronics as you pedal. Prices for theses fantastic smart wheels start at $299 for the UrbanX Eco, and $399 for the UrbanX Booster and the company is hoping to begin shipping the first orders this summer. So, what are you waiting for? Go get yours reserved now!
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