The cycling industry has been closing the distance with electronics for some time now. Various accessories and components have added electronic shifting, turn-by-turn navigation, lights, and even theft protection into our rides. Now, Volata Cycling has built these technologies and more into their bike providing an all around urban/commuter capable of hitting your everyday route. Get ready to (not have to) plug in…
video & photo c. Volata Cycles
The Volata offers flush integration between a Bluetooth powered smart computer and a CNC’d aluminum stem. The computer offers more than just the standard ride duration, distance, and average speed features. Thanks to your smartphone’s data and paired sensors, it shows weather forecasts, navigation, heart rate tracking, music control, and cellphone pop notifications. A joystick crowns the rear shifter allowing for computer navigation, while the front shifter is topped with a button for the 96cb electronic horn.
The Volata automatically syncs trips with the rider’s phone by Bluetooth, which also lets you share ride efforts, and view the bike’s condition (charge and location). Lastly, an anti-theft system monitors the bike with motion detectors. Should it be moved or taken the bike’s alarm is set off and it begins to track the location via GPS.
Bundled with a belt driven crank system, 11 speed Shimano Alfine internal rear hub, and Shimano’s Di2 electronic shifters, the Volata is built with reduced maintenance in mind. Additionally, a front hub dynamo helps keep the lights (and screen) on when trekking away from outlets. The frame is constructed with 7005 grade Aluminum and incorporates internal cable guides for the electronics and the hydraulic brake lines. The fork features two built-in headlights, and just above the rear wheel is a tail light placed in the frame. Integrated racks and bags are said to be coming soon.
Volata Cycling is taking reservations for $299 with a total price of $3,500 when orders ship. It comes in two color options -white and gray- and sizes from S – XL, and weighs 23.37 lbs (size M, claimed).