United City Bikes has launched a new folding eBike that the Swiss start-up company claims to be the world’s lightest.
Weighing in at an impressive 27.5 pounds, according to United City Bikes, the launch of THE ONE is the result of a year-and-half of research and development, alongside a successful crowd-funding campaign on Indiegogo.
“We knew there was a big interest in a real lightweight urban mobility folding bike,” said Ralf Miller, United City Bikes customer relationship manager for sales. “But, finally, it was still overwhelming to see the great success of the crowdfunding campaign. Our plan from the beginning was to reach $1 million in sales, which we achieved.”
THE ONE gets it svelteness courtesy of a lightweight magnesium frame that can be unfolded by its compact 31×25 inches in less than 10-seconds.
Power-assistance is delivered by a 250w brushless electric motor that weighs just 4.4 pounds, which is capable of propelling THE ONE to a top speed of 20 mph with a range of approximately 38 miles. Moreover, cyclists can take advantage of its electric-assist pedaling or electric-only transmission modes.
United City Bikes believes THE ONE is the perfect solution for the urban commuter who needs a sustainable bike that can be stored inside or carried on public transportation. Furthermore, because charging stations can still be hard to find, the battery can be charged independent of the bike, allowing cyclists to recharge power at their home or office, or wherever there’s an outlet accessible.
“We want to make urban mobility accessible for everyone,” Miller said. “Our plan was to integrate only state-of-the-art technology and elements to one single and unique electric folding bike with no compromise. It comes with a unique design and it should be your indispensable companion in any living conditions.”
Other features that highlight THE ONE are disc brakes, foldable pedals, an LCD display that informs the cyclist as to battery life and speed, as well as a patented saddle designed for extra comfort during longer commutes. It even has a unique, built-in kickstand.
Additionally, all of THE ONE’s circuits are integrated into the frame including the battery, making them resistant to foul weather.
Pricing for THE ONE is determined by battery capacity and disc brake systems.
For example, the U1 has a 5.4Ah lithium battery (24.8-mile range) and generic mechanical disc brakes, the U2 has a Samsung 7Ah lithium battery (32.3 miles) and Shimano mechanical disc brakes, while the top-of-the-line U3 has a Panasonic 8Ah lithium battery (37.2 miles) and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes.
THE ONE
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