Launch day for the Fortified Invincible is here, and the real story is the sum of its parts rather than any one individual feature. Fortified set out to create the ultimate city bike. This is a bike that will survive pedaling the mean streets, but more importantly will be there where you locked it up when you come back.
To guarantee that, the bike has some anti-theft features included, but it’s what you can’t see that really makes the Invincible uniquely guaranteed against theft…
While we hadn’t yet seen the whole bike, most of the features have already been discussed. Invincible will be available in single speed with rim or 8 speed with disc brake models, each with a rust proof aluminum frame and retro reflective decals. Each bike rolls on their own 700x32c puncture resistant tires, and includes a “water resistant” saddle as well as a chain treated with rust proofing.
Hardware throughout the bike uses anti-theft bolt heads with locking wheel nuts that require a special wrench to remove. Each bike will also include its own U-Lock which Fortified calls best in class. Fortified’s excellent Aviator and Afterburner are available as additions through Kickstarter individually, or for $80 for the pair, along with a rear rack and fenders – each with their own security screws.
All of the components aside, the really interesting feature is their Fortified protect program. Sort of bike theft insurance, riders who buy into the program will receive a replacement in 24 hours if their bike is stolen, and all they’ll be on the hook for is shipping. During the Kickstarter, riders can purchase Fortified Protect plans with their bike in 1, 2, or 3 year increments at a significant discount ($50 per year) from the post KS full price of $100 a year. After the plan expires, riders will be able to renew their Protection with a early backer discount.
According to co-founder Slava Menn, Fortified protect is built on trust. Since their theft rate of their lights has been extremely low and their customers honest, they have been able to replace the few that have been stolen. Calling Fortified Protect the next stage, Fortified will help riders whose bike is stolen file a police report and even search craigslist or other sources for the stolen bike, and if nothing shows up the new bike ships in under 24 hours.
So there you have it – a bike that is built for the streets, locks all the parts and accessories down with security hardware, includes its own U lock, and if all else fails is replaced through Fortified Protect if stolen.
The Kickstarter is live now with pricing starting at $399 for the bare bones single speed, up to $949 for the 8 speed with front and rear lights and 3 years of Fortified Protect. Head over to Kickstarter for full spec details and pricing.
