No, that’s not a Lefty, it’s a fully enclosed and integrated motor, battery and controller which allows Germany-based Electrolyte ebikes to offer significant weight savings over their competitors. The Ricochet pictured above, for example, weighs about 35 pounds, not much more than many commuters I’ve pedaled. More specs and models after the break.
The 250 watt motor featured in Electrolyte’s unique swingarm known as the One-Armed Bandit can be operated in a turbo mode or four supporting modes up to 25 km/hr. The 36 volt, 320 watt hour battery is said to last 60-100 km while being better protected from the elements due to its mode of enclosure and placement on the bike. How does it handle, though, one must wonder.
The One-Armed Bandit can be found on three models, the aforementioned Ricochet, the Street Sweeper, pictured above and also available in a ladies version, and the Arsonist. Each features Magura MT-4 disc brakes, internally geared hubs, belt drives, and a mix of Syntace and FSA componentry. The Ricochet and Street Sweeper will set you back about 4,000 euros.
The Arsonist, shown here with optional Tubus Vega rack, Supernova E3 lighting system, and CLite Curana mudguards, retails at 4,750 euros and offers an 11-speed Shimano Alfine hub, while its sisters come with a Sturney-Archer 2-speed.
Electrolyte also offers a more conventional ebike in the slick looking Vorradler, available in three colors for 3,750 euros.
