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Showing posts with the label electric bikes

Could This Affordable Indian Electric Scooter Succeed in the US?

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Introducing the TVS Orbiter: A New Era in Affordable Electric Mobility TVS Motor Company, a global leader in two-wheeler manufacturing, has launched the Orbiter, its latest entry-level electric scooter. Priced at approximately $1,135, the Orbiter represents a significant step forward in making electric mobility accessible to a broader audience. With decades of experience in building motorcycles and scooters, TVS has established itself as a major player in markets across Asia, Africa, and beyond. In India, where the brand is particularly popular, TVS scooters are a common sight on city streets. This widespread presence gives the company deep insights into local rider needs and preferences. TVS is now focusing heavily on electric vehicles (EVs), with the Orbiter being its most recent innovation. Following the success of the iQube, the Orbiter is designed to offer practical, affordable, and user-friendly EV commuting options. Key Features of the TVS Orbiter The Orbiter is equipped wi...

Why This $10,000 Cargo E-Bike Outshines Its Big Brother

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Overview of the Riese & Müller Carrie E-Bike Electric cargo bikes are gaining popularity in urban areas across America. These bikes combine the ability to carry cargo with electric assistance, making them a compelling alternative to cars and public transportation for local errands. Additionally, many e-bikes are enjoyable to ride. I recently had the opportunity to test the Riese & Müller Load4 75 front-loader cargo e-bike. While I found it fun to ride and capable of carrying large items from stores like Costco or the garden store, its size made it difficult to navigate my apartment. The high price tag of $14,000 also raised some questions. Introducing the Carrie: a compact e-cargo bike from the same German brand. This model offers a smaller footprint compared to the Load, along with a clever folding basket at the front. It promises everyday utility in a more convenient package. Moreover, it is 40% less expensive than the Load. Could this be the ideal solution? Key Specifica...

Will Tariffs Fuel a Surge in Refurbished E-Bikes in the US?

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The Rise of E-Bikes in the US and the Role of Upway E-bikes have become a common sight in many parts of Europe and Asia, where they are used for a wide range of daily activities. From parents transporting children in cargo boxes to couriers delivering packages, e-bikes have seamlessly integrated into urban life. In cities like Amsterdam or Tokyo, electric two-wheelers have transitioned from being a niche product to an essential mode of transport, often replacing cars and vans for short trips. However, the United States is still in the early stages of this transformation. While Americans are purchasing more e-bikes than ever before—between one and 1.2 million annually—the majority of these sales occur in major cities. For those living in suburban or rural areas, finding even a few e-bikes at local stores can be challenging. Additionally, prices may not always be affordable, and infrastructure for cycling is still developing compared to the well-established networks seen in other regio...

Can-Am Unveils Powerful EV ATV with Strong Motorcycle Heritage and Heavy-Duty Towing

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The Rise of Electric Power in Powersports Can-Am has made a significant move in the powersports industry by introducing the 2026 Outlander Electric, an all-electric ATV that marks a new chapter in the company's journey toward sustainable and innovative technology. This development follows Can-Am’s successful reintroduction of its motorcycle lineup with the Origin and Pulse electric bikes. Now, the brand is expanding its electric reach into the ATV segment, bringing forward a vehicle that promises to redefine what an off-road machine can be. For many enthusiasts, the idea of an electric vehicle (EV) might seem counterintuitive, especially when it comes to high-performance machines like ATVs. However, the shift towards electric power is not just about reducing emissions—it's also about enhancing functionality and versatility. As someone who appreciates the thrill of speed and the ruggedness of off-road adventures, I find the potential of electric drivetrains to be incredibly pr...

Get Excited: The KTM 160 Duke Could Be the Ultimate Beginner Bike

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A New Era for KTM’s Entry-Level Models KTM has long been known for its high-performance motorcycles, but the brand's journey into the entry-level segment has been a significant one. With Bajaj now holding a majority stake in the company, the focus on affordable and accessible bikes has taken center stage. This shift is not just about making money—it’s about creating a loyal rider base that can eventually move up to more powerful models. For many riders, the KTM Duke range represents more than just a street-legal machine. It's often their first real taste of European engineering and performance. In the Philippines, for example, the Duke series was a gateway to the world of advanced motorcycle technology. The first-generation 200 Duke was a game-changer, offering comparable performance to Japanese naked bikes at a similar price point—around $3,000 USD. This affordability wasn’t accidental; it was a result of Bajaj’s role in manufacturing the smaller Dukes in India, which made t...

Why Are Cities Banning E-Bikes and Is It About Fuel Tax?

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The Misconceptions Surrounding E-Bikes E-bikes are often portrayed as a threat to public safety, but this perception is largely based on outdated and inaccurate assumptions. It’s time we shift our focus from blaming e-bikes to understanding how they can be integrated into our communities in a safe and responsible way. Recent media coverage has highlighted growing concerns about e-bike usage, particularly in local parks and on sidewalks. Some communities have even introduced new regulations to limit their use, citing safety issues and the need for stricter controls. These discussions often involve elected officials who argue that e-bikes pose significant risks, especially to pedestrians and other cyclists. One common argument is that e-bikes should require age restrictions or licensing, similar to motor vehicles. For instance, a recent local news segment featured a mayor suggesting that e-bikes should only be allowed for those 16 years and older, drawing comparisons to the legal drivi...

Retro-E-Bike Lives Its Cafe Racer Dream

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A Nostalgic Twist on Electric Mobility Beachman Bikes, a Toronto-based company, has taken a unique approach to the e-bike market by blending vintage aesthetics with modern technology. Their latest offering, the Beachman '64, is a striking example of this philosophy. While it may resemble an electric motorcycle, it's officially classified as an e-bike, allowing it to navigate the legal landscape in a way that many other high-performance models cannot. Design and Performance The '64 is more than just a retro-inspired vehicle; it’s a legitimate street-legal electric moped that delivers real performance. Its design pays homage to the 1960s cafe racer scene, featuring a sleek silhouette that could easily be mistaken for a gas-powered machine. However, beneath its classic exterior lies cutting-edge technology. The '64 is powered by a 2.88 kWh lithium battery, which provides up to 55 miles of range on a single charge. For those who need a bit more, there's also a 3.6 k...