You don’t have to be an average Joe, non-cyclist to have an interest in e-bikes. The idea behind them makes a lot of sense – increased riding range & reduced efforts for a true transport alternative. But there have been a few aspects that give potential owners pause before making the investment. That’s because historically e-bikes have been hefty machines with bulbous batteries; not to mention the high cost for early adopters and a bit of a stigma for not pedaling on your own. Pure Cycles has created the Volta, trying to redefine what that standard e-bike is though. It gets rid of the usual clunky look, with a sleek utilitarian design, and is using crowdfunding to get a Kickstart. Get the full scoop after the break…
At first glance, the pedal-assist Volta appears to be your standard comfort focused commuter. Its upright position, integrated front basket and lights all reflect this. Under the hood though, it provides riders with a 40 mile range, a battery stored internally in the toptube, automatically activating lights (front & back), and GPS capabilities. The GPS allows owners to track fitness and bike security from an iOS mobile app. It’ll even notify you if the bike is moved from its locked position. Those with apartments or tall garage storage systems will appreciate its 35lb build and open body design.
There are two drivetrain options for the bike – a belt-drive single speed setup or a SRAM 8 speed. They’re both connected to a 250W pedal-assist motor with a gear ratio of 14:1 capable of reaching 20 mph and 3 motor output levels, with its torque assist sensor at the bottom bracket controlling when your power gets boosted. When braking the motor is automatically cut to eliminate the risk of a ghost rider situation. A Panasonic 2.9Ah Lithium Ion battery (update: 10s2p 2.9Ah cell battery) provides a total voltage capacity of 32-42V: 5.8Ah for that max claimed 40 mile range in the lowest powered eco mode, and recharges in 2 hours.
The EU & US certified Pure Cycles Volta has just been launched on Kickstarter today where it has already flown through 3/4 of their funding goal. The Volta starts form a $1,400 pledge with deliveries anticipate in August 2017.
