Contributors: Hafeez Alavi, Cédric Chaperon, Jack Cracker, Emily Flynn, Michael LaRochelle, Chris Redden, Robin Richardson
Photo contributors: Algarve Promotion Bureau, AP Medeira, Bosch, CargoB, CEBA, Cédric Chaperon, City of Boston, City of London, City of New York, City of Valencia, CM Setubal, Cycling Industries Europe, Destination El Paso, DJI GmbH, Envo Drive Systems, Ford Motor Company, FDNY, Jennifer Brown/City of Jersey City, Jess Spieker/ Friends and Families for Safe Cycling, Metrolinx, NYC DOT, Office of MPP Jessica Bell, Oonee, Paulo Magalhaes, Larry Pizzi, Tern Bicycles, Toronto.ca, Visit Penticton.
Copy editing: Josh Francis
Web master: David Irving
Cover photo: Tern Bicycles
eREVOLUTION
Bike Lanes Save Lives and Ease Congestion
On Oct. 23 a large gathering of Ontario riders met at Queen’s Park in Toronto to protest the provincial government’s recent legislation aimed at restricting or removing bike lanes that replace car lanes as a solution to traffic congestion. Yet the legislation is uncalled for, as bike lanes are present on only 4% of Toronto’s roads. The Minister of Transport, Prabmeet Sarkaria, offers misleading data, saying that only 1.2% of people commute by bike — yet according to a StatsCAN Survey in 2021, about 13.5% of Torontonians bike to work. Premier Doug Ford says businesses are complaining, but the Bloor Annex BIA claims that “bikes are good for business”. In fact, studies show that bike lanes not only save lives but ease congestion. Observers note that none of Ford’s LRT public transit projects have been activated and that, with an election not far off, he’s looking for cheap votes. This prompts others to say, “We don’t need to replace bike lanes in Ontario. We need to replace our Premier.” - BAS
eNEWS
Ontario to introduce legislation to limit bike lanes.
Ontario to Require Approval for New Bike Lanes that Replace Car Lanes
The Ontario government is introducing legislation that would require municipalities to get provincial approval before building any new bike lanes that remove car lanes.
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria made the announcement on Oct. 15 at an Etobicoke-based restaurant on Bloor Street West, where bike lanes were installed last year and have become a flash point of the debate about bike lanes in the city.
The province is blaming bike lanes for congestion, and municipalities are being asked to demonstrate that any proposed bike lanes will not have a “negative impact on vehicle traffic”.
The government will also request data from municipalities on bike lane projects, initiated in the last five years, that replaced car lanes. The province may attempt to remove these lanes, pending a review of data related to their impact on travel times for drivers.
The announcement follows Premier Doug Ford’s recent critical comments regarding bike lanes that were factchecked and debunked by CBC News.
A City of Toronto study for bike lanes on Bloor St. W. saw a 56% increase in cyclists, positive economic impact for businesses, and improved safety for all road users, among other benefits.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow called the move “government overreach” which was echoed by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO). Others point to the province’s failure to activate the city’s three LRT projects at Eglinton
Crosstown, Finch and Hurontario.
Advocates are dismayed given the record number of cycling deaths in Toronto this year. Advocacy groups have organized rallies and petitions in response to the pending new measures that will stunt the progress made by the city, which has seen over 100km of new bicycle infrastructure since 2018.
A recent Nanos Research survey for CTV says that 54% of Canadians vs. 41% support bike lanes that remove car lanes.
Boston Launches eBikes Incentive Program Including eCargo Bikes
In early August, the Boston E-Bikes Incentive Program was launched.
Vouchers ranged from $800 to $2,400 for standard e-bikes, cargo e-bikes, adaptive e-bikes and powered handcycle wheelchair attachments.
Recipients also got $150 toward the purchase of bicycle safety equipment.
The program was open to residents who are 18 years of age or older, and a 60+ senior; or an adult with a chronic or permanent disability; or an incomeeligible adult at or below 40% AMI.
Six Deaths Marks Deadliest for Cycling in Toronto in Nearly 20 Years
This year has been the deadliest for cyclists in Toronto since record-keeping began in 2006. In August a 26-year-old woman, struck by the driver of a vehicle while cycling in Etobicoke, succumbed to her injuries, marking the sixth cycling death this year in Canada’s biggest city.
According to the City, about 100 kilometres of new bikeways were installed between 2018 and 2023, and 90 kilometres of existing bikeways were upgraded. Despite the changes, advocates say other critical components are missing.
“We need bold leadership and big changes for today’s reality. The dangerous driving and negligent driving out there is prolific,” said lawyer Dave Shellnutt (@TheBikingLawyer), who specializes in representing injured cyclists and pedestrians. “Enforcement of the current laws is weak along with legislation surrounding penalties for vehicular deaths.”
Educating drivers is another key factor, including curbing the growing culture war that is being stoked between road users. Even government officials are fanning the flames, such as Ontario Premier Doug Ford who recently made exaggerated and negative claims about bike lanes in Toronto that are not based on data and facts.
“Cyclist safety is a public health issue—everybody benefits from this type of infrastructure. Walking on the sidewalk or riding a bike in the city shouldn’t be an act of courage,” added Michael Longfield, Executive Director of Cycle Toronto.
Alberta Parks Approves eBikes Where Cycling Permitted
Following a 2-year pilot, Alberta Parks approved pedal-assist e-bikes on all pathways and trails where cycling is permitted in provincial parks, recreation areas and wildland provincial parks. Analysis of results and visitor feedback determined that most current e-bike use aligns with class 1 pedal-assist e-bikes; pedal-assist e-bikes are perceived as being very compatible in a park setting; allowing pedal-assist e-bikes in parks presents a low risk.
Boston
Boston’s CargoB Launches USA’s First eCargo Bike Share
In mid-May, Boston’s CargoB was officially launched as the USA’s first ondemand e-cargo bike share operation, with hubs in three neighbourhoods opened around the city.
Success came early — only a short month later, founders Dorothy Fennell and Zack DeClerck said the response has far exceeded expectations.
“CargoB’s first 300 riders have moved their dogs, lawnmowers, BBQ grills, teenagers, air conditioners, etc…,” wrote Fennell on LinkedIn.
Boston is a city that’s embracing cycling. Mayor Michelle Wu is an avid cyclist, and last September, Wu and the Boston Transportation Department announced the launch of Boston Delivers, an e-cargo bike delivery pilot program.
According to Fennell, more neighbourhoods are in the works and CargoB will be at community events all summer long.
Ford Unveils Iconic Bronco and Mustang-Inspired eBikes
In August, Ford Motor Company unveiled the Bronco eBike, and the Mustang eBike including a Limited Edition model in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of the Mustang brand, via a licensing agreement with N+ Bikes.
The MTB-styled Bronco eBike is designed with a G.O.A.T.™ (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) dual-suspension system and a motorcycle-style seat. The more urban, sporty-looking Mustang
eBike celebrates the performancedriven design of the iconic sports car. Both models feature a 750-watt, rear hub motor that provides 85Nm of torque and a top pedal-assisted speed of 28mph/45kph (Class 3 U.S.), with an approximate range of 60 miles/96km. Both models come equipped with lighting systems as well. The Mustang 60th Anniversary Edition will
be available exclusively through Ford dealers in limited quantities.
The SRP for the Mustang eBike starts at $4,000 US and the Bronco eBike starts at $4,500 US — both models offer additional colour options.
eBike Rebate Website Crashes & Reopens to 10,000+ Applications
Minnesota’s recent $2 million e-bike rebate initiative was overwhelmed in early June, resulting in a crashed website that re-opened almost a month later on July 2 with over 10,000 applications received in 18 minutes.
The two-year rebate program provided a discount of up to $1,500 on all qualifying e-bikes.
Minnesota became the second US
state after Colorado to launch such a program. The two-year initiative will see funding of up to $2 million per year in both 2024 and 2025.
New Zealand Funds eBike Charging Stations
at Great Rides Network
In mid-August, New Zealand’s Tourism and Hospitality Minister Matt Doocey announced a funding initiative to establish e-bike charging stations for the country’s popular 23 Great Rides. This network of rides sees more than one million visitors annually, generating an estimated $1 billion in revenue.
Great Rides’ governance organizations must co-fund 50% of the purchase and installation costs, and determine how many e-bike charging stations to install in their respective regions. Applications for funding will be open for two months from August 18 to October 18, 2024.
EU Commits 4.5 Billion to Build Cycling Infrastructure
In June, the European Commission announced a commitment of €4.5 billion to support a range of cycling infrastructure investments across all member states via its 2021-2027 Cohesion Policy.
The European Declaration on Cycling, which was adopted in April, lists principles aiming to boost cycling and guide future action.
Back in 2012, the EU spent just €600k from its Cohesion funds. Since then, advocacy groups such as Cycling Industries Europe and the European Cyclists’ Federation, along with their members and national and regional cycling partners, delivered strong, tireless lobbying for stable long-term funding.
The EU cycling community welcomes the current budget, on top of €1.7 billion secured in the EU Recovery and Resilience Funds.
Bike Ottawa Celebrates 40 Years of Advocating for Safe Cycling
Bike Ottawa, founded in 1984, recently celebrated its 40th anniversary of advocating for safe cycling in Canada’s capital city.
Continued on page 10
Ford’s new Mustang-inspired e-bikes.
CARGOB
Boston’s CargoB is the USA’s first e-cargo bike sharing system.
CellBlock Lithium Ion Battery Incident Kit (LIBIK)
CellBlock’s Lithium Ion Battery Incident Kit (LIBIK) offers a full line of battery fire suppression tools that are versatile, simple and effective as a solution to a wide variety of battery fire situations in personal electronic devices (PED).
Its unique effectiveness lies in the use of CellBlockEX, an innovative new mineral-based fire extinguishing agent composed of non-crystalline glass granulates, that has been shown to extinguish a lithium-ion battery fire in seconds without the use of water or halon. CellBlockEX also poses no health risk, and it does not have a measurable shelf life or environmental impact.
The LIBIK can be wall-mounted for fast deployment. Easy access to its contents makes it ideal for bike shops, laboratory environments, hospitals, schools, manufacturing settings and more.
The kit includes FireShield Blankets that can be used as a personal shield when approaching a compromised device, to handle a device that has
The membership-based organization is an incorporated, not-forprofit that’s run by volunteers who are passionate about a better city.
Bike Ottawa works to prioritize transportation modes other than the automobile and make streets safer for cyclists.
BikeInsure in USA Offers Economical Coverage for Bicycles and eBikes
Trail) and Marilyne Lortie (GM, Le P’tit Train du Nord).
been safely extinguished, or to create a suppressive effect when used in conjunction with PED-Pad pillows.
The PED-Pad pillows are filled with CellBlockEX and can be placed directly on the fire or overheating unit. Also in the kit are CellBlock High Heat Gloves that are designed to withstand temperatures beyond 2000°F. The kit also includes goggles.
In Canada, the cost is $1,350; contact the Canadian Electric Bicycle Association (CEBA), www. cebassociation.com. In the USA, it costs $965 US via Call2Recycle, www. call2recycle.com.
ENVO Launches New Utility Personal Transporter
Envo Drive Systems debuted its new Utility Personal Transporter (UPT) at Everything Electric CANADA in Vancouver, Sept. 6-8.
The versatile micromobility platform is designed to offer an affordable alternative to single-passenger large vehicles that dominate the transportation landscape.
The UPT provides a cost-effective, modular and adaptable platform that meets diverse needs to address what Envo defines as existing gaps and ignored niches in the micromobility space.
As an efficient alternative to traditional ATVs, UTVs, cars and trucks, the UPT can transform into multiple four-wheeler concepts, e.g., a service vehicle; an industrial, agricultural and community transporter; a recreational or adaptive vehicle for both personal and commercial use across various industries.
The launch showcased six variations on display to attendees.
Essential Model: stand-up ATV for adventurous riders; Four-Seater Golf Cart: for leisure and neighbourhood use; Full ATV Package: complete with a dump trailer and snowplow for all-terrain versatility; Off-Road Go-Kart/SingleSeater Buggy: for off-road experiences; Tilt Truck Dumper: designed for smallscale hauling and transport tasks; Larger Side-by-Side UTV: robust vehicle for both utility and leisure applications.
The Essential Model starts at $9,891 USD.
BikeInsure, an American insurtech company specializing in bicycle insurance for cyclists, was founded in 2021 by Buzzy Cohn, an avid cyclist who had a bicycle accident that made him aware of shortfalls in the insurance industry for cyclists.
“I created BikeInsure due to a bicycle accident and a home insurance fiasco,” said Cohn who faced a large deductible and possible cancellation of his policy following an accident.
“Traditional bicycle owners assume that a homeowner’s insurance policy adequately covers their bike. E-bikes, since they are classified as motorized vehicles, may be excluded from homeowner’s insurance policies.”
While most home insurance policies allow you to add coverage endorsements for valuable personal items such as art, jewellery, or a $10,000 bicycle, and simply pay a premium, coverage for e-bikes is not always straightforward.
BikeInsure Comprehensive Bicycle Coverage provides up to $10,000 in coverage per bike, and it can be purchased for $16.99 per month. The policy covers e-bikes, road, mountain, triathlon, gravel, fat bikes, cyclocross and cargo bikes, including accessories in the event of damage/loss caused by riding accidents or while in transit, with a $100 deductible.
They also offer optional Bicycle Theft Insurance, which is available for an additional $8 monthly, with a $250 deductible.
The company is the official bike insurance of USA Cycling, the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), the League of American Bicyclists, the Belgian Waffle Ride and the Adventure Cycling Association.
(l-r) Marc Bourcier (Mayor, Saint-Jérôme), Eleanor McMahon (CEO, Trans Canada
Interview: Larry Pizzi, Chair of the eBike Subcommittee at People For Bikes
by Benjamin Sadavoy
Following the recent edition of Eurobike in Frankfurt, Germany, we caught up with Larry Pizzi, Chair of the Electric Bicycle Subcommittee at People For Bikes, and also GM of Alta Cycling Group in Seattle. Pizzi has worn many hats during his career in cycling, from racer to bike shop owner, and became involved with e-bikes over 20 years ago at Currie Technologies, sharing a vision to make cycling more accessible. At Eurobike, he was on the Global Insights presentation panel. Pizzi endeavours to make headway in the industry as cycling continues to grow around the world, and e-bikes remain the most popular electric vehicle worldwide.
Please give us a brief history of your background in cycling and e-bikes.
Larry Pizzi: I’ve been active in the cycling industry since my teenage years, working in bike shops in the Philadelphia, PA
area to support my equipment addiction, ultimately opening three Bike Tech stores in the Philly area. Selling the business after 15 years, I transitioned to the brand side with Raleigh Cycles, Mongoose, Schwinn and GT. In 2002, I moved to Currie Technologies, an early-stage e-bike company, which, after 10 years of building the business, sold to Accell Group, which shortly after that acquired Raleigh globally, and I ran their North American e-bike business until 2019. Since 2014, I have worked with the US industry association PeopleForBikes on legal and legislative matters, chairing the electric bicycle subcommittee.
Colorado and Minnesota became the first US states to offer e-bike rebates. Is the USA’s E-BIKE Act attainable?
LP: Getting the E-BIKE Act signed into law in the current political environment will be challenging, but we will keep trying. In the interim, states and municipalities are likely to continue to provide incentives to encourage more Americans to substitute car trips for bike trips.
What are your thoughts on the advent of bike lanes in New York, Minneapolis, Austin, Seattle, Cambridge, Boston, Philly, etc. in the USA?
LP: New and improved safe cycling infrastructure has begun to transform these cities to make cycling a viable transportation alternative. Americans in these densely trafficked urban centres are discovering how bikes can transform a city through safe places to ride. There is much work to do, and we have an initiative targeted at this subject. The Great Bike Infrastructure Project will advance pro-bike policy and thousands of infrastructure projects across the U.S.
Cycling veteran, Larry Pizzi, chair of the eBike Subcommittee at USA’s PeopleForBikes.
Larry Pizzi (2nd on the left) at the Global Insights presentation panel at Eurobike 2024.
Pizzi has long promoted e-bikes to make cycling more accessible to more people.
Safety with batteries is an issue. The Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Bill passed unanimously with bipartisan support last Dec. – your comments?
LP: This is encouraging to see it finally begin to unfold. Battery safety is not that complicated, and premium e-bikes have consistently prioritized safety testing and certification to global standards. However, safety requirements at the federal level and trade policies have left the door open to low-quality, untested and uncertified products entering the market. I am encouraged to see the progress we are making with the U.S. CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission), which will ultimately result in updated rules that govern imports.
New York City DOT’s recent approval of guidelines for commercial e-cargo bikes is a major step forward… has the dam burst as some had hoped?
LP: It’s starting. There are ongoing discussions about size, weight, number of wheels, and what infrastructure commercial cargo bikes can use. Still, I see this as the beginning of a landmark change from a congestion and environmental perspective.
eMTBs are a fast-growing sector as well… what’s your take on their progress?
LP: Trail access is still restricted in many places, but this is beginning to change as people realize that a proper Class-1 eMTB has no significant difference on social or environmental impacts. What I love about eMTBs is how they level the playing field and make mountain biking accessible to many more riders so that families and friends with varying athletic
abilities can all participate and have a great time discovering the joys of riding.
You recently returned from Eurobike 2024 in Frankfurt –any takeaways and hopes for North America?
LP: I have always enjoyed travelling to Germany and the Netherlands. Observing the cycling culture and public policy on growing cycling participation in most EU markets has always inspired me to envision the possibilities for North America. Aside from that, I enjoyed seeing the vast number of innovations in personal and commercial e-cargo bikes and vehicles and the developments with e-bike drive systems. There are some amazing products in the pipeline.
What are the key challenges that cycling/e-bikes face in the USA to become more mainstream?
LP: Cycling is on a path to becoming more mainstream in the U.S. It’s all about building improved infrastructure that creates a safe place for Americans to ride and connects riders so they can get where they want to go efficiently.
Anything you’d like to add?
LP: While the cycling industry continues to work through residual challenges brought on by the pandemic supply chain, the future for cycling is brighter than it’s ever been. As more North Americans choose bikes over cars and discover the joys of riding for transportation, sport, fitness or recreation, it validates that bikes change people’s lives for the better. I am consistently reminded how lucky I am to work in such a great industry.
BY BENJAMIN SADAVOY
Interview: New Bicycle Mayor of Toronto Alison Stewart on Bike Lanes, Safety, eBikes & More
Alison Stewart is eager to continue the advances made in Toronto’s cycling scene.
In late Sept., Alison Stewart, Director of Advocacy and Public Policy at Cycle Toronto, was sworn in as the next Bicycle Mayor of Toronto. Stewart takes over the reins from Lanrick Bennett Jr., who became Toronto’s first Bicycle Mayor in 2022. The initiative to establish a worldwide Bicycle Mayor program was launched in June 2016 by BYCS, an Amsterdam-based global NGO. Bicycle Mayors sit for two years before passing the torch. Stewart, who went car-free in 2023, is a strong advocate for cycling. She is well-versed in Toronto’s cycling scene and is eager to continue the advances made by Bennett.
Alison Stewart is officially sworn in as the New Bicycle Mayor of Toronto.
While Toronto has been making steady gains in building out its cycling network, Stewart, and all cyclists in Ontario, were hit with urgent bad news in mid-October — the province plans to introduce legislation that would require municipalities to get provincial approval before building any new bike lanes that remove car lanes. Even existing bike lanes may be removed, pending a review of their impact on travel times for drivers. The premise for the new regulations is to ease traffic congestion, an idea contrary to all data and studies regarding bike lanes which are being implemented by most cities worldwide, including many cities in Ontario. Opponents also claim that it’s severe municipal overreach by the province, which has yet to activate its three LRT projects that would help relieve congestion. We caught up with Stewart for her take on bike lanes, safety, e-bikes and her plans to advance cycling over her term as Bicycle Mayor of Canada’s biggest city.
Please give us a brief history of your background in cycling.
Alison Stewart: I grew up in Guelph when the city was just 75,000 (it is now 144,000). As Gen Xers, my high school friends and I had to either walk, bike or take the dreaded public bus to get to school, or anywhere that we wanted to go. Biking was the fastest and most enjoyable way for me to get around, and my friends and I would bike everywhere. At Trent University in Peterborough and then in London (UK), biking remained my preferred, and most affordable, mode of transportation. Since moving to Toronto in 2000, biking or taking transit continued to be my preferred way to get around, even after becoming a car owner. I went 100% car-free in 2023. Like many, during the Covid lockdowns, I discovered the joy of biking for travel in Ontario as a safe and social way to get out with friends. Last year I discovered the enjoyment (and challenges!) of riding 600km to Montreal with the Friends for Life Bike Rally, a volunteer-led ride that raises money for people living with HIV/AIDS in Toronto, Kingston and Montréal. What was your motivation to become Toronto’s second Bicycle Mayor?
AS: Joining the global network of Bicycle Mayors was appealing to me as a way of expanding my advocacy, by connecting with and learning about the different approaches being taken around the world to address the similar challenges we have in Toronto: how to reclaim urban spaces designed for the supremacy of the automobile, to the humble bicycle. I also wanted to continue to advance the role which Lanrick Bennett Jr. had brought to Toronto and add to the diversity of voices of the cycling community.
Toronto’s recent progress with cycling is notable, but Ontario’s current move against bike lanes won’t help. AS: It is beyond baffling (and demoralizing) that the Ontario government is tabling legislation, under the guise of easing traffic congestion, that will remove the authority of municipalities to implement their transportation plans, specifically targeting bike lanes. The Premier has even threatened to remove bike lanes that have been implemented because he doesn’t think that bike lanes belong on main streets — despite the overwhelming evidence to the contrary. This is a huge threat to the momentum that Toronto has achieved over the past five years in making the city a more vibrant cycling city. What plans are there to work with politicians to try and prevent the province’s overreach and intervention?
AS: There are several letter-writing campaigns taking place, as well as a large non-partisan rally being organized for Wednesday, Oct. 23 at Queen’s Park at 5pm. Aside from the political feedback that will take place when the
Legislature resumes, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) was quick to issue a strong statement against the legislation, and as the details of the Act are unveiled, it will be important to see how delivery companies, developers, engineers and other professionals respond. This provincial legislation will have ripple effects across the province, and conversations taking place behind closed doors may help alter the outcome of the legislation.
Businesses, both small and large, e.g. FedEx, Purolator, etc. are using e-cargo bikes for deliveries, which favour more bike lanes.
AS: In Toronto, we are increasingly seeing large delivery companies, as well as other large brands, such as Sephora, use e-cargo bikes to transport their goods in Toronto. Besides which, food delivery workers, once hailed as essential to keeping the economy moving during the pandemic, remain a significant presence in Toronto because they are able to quickly make their deliveries vs. those seeking to make deliveries in vehicles. E-bikes and adaptive e-bikes have been a game changer on how goods and people are getting around. If the provincial government was serious about easing congestion, their legislation would focus on improving cycling infrastructure across the province to support the delivery industry’s move to reduce the number of delivery trucks and vehicles on our streets, opting instead to use nimble cargo bikes.
Safety remains a key obstacle / issue for cyclists around the globe… your comments?
AS: The number one barrier to people biking is a lack of safe infrastructure. Bar none. Cycling infrastructure must also be properly maintained and clear of construction debris, wet leaves, snow or illegally parked vehicles. People who bike are incredibly vulnerable, especially when they are forced into mixed traffic. In Toronto, the tragic death of a 24-yearold woman who was hit by a truck when she was forced to exit the Bloor St W. bike lane due to an illegally placed construction bin remains a sombre and potent reminder of the vulnerability of biking. Painted bike lanes are not infrastructure.
How has the popularity of e-bikes changed things for cycling in Toronto?
AS: The growth of e-bike adoption and use in Toronto over the past few years is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it has expanded the number of people who bike. Older adults, delivery couriers and people with adaptive mobility needs have benefited from the range of e-bikes and trikes now available to them. On the other hand, not all e-bikes are created equal, and there has been an increase in larger power-assisted motorcycle-style e-bikes that, when ridden dangerously at fast speeds, create conflict between people travelling at slower speeds. That said, new cycle tracks that are wider and better suited to a wide range of mobility devices travelling at different speeds will contribute to getting more people out of cars and on bikes.
What do you hope to achieve over your two-year term?
AS: My priorities over the next two years include developing resources to connect more women and people from equitydeserving communities to biking, and leading inclusive social rides that are designed for people who are new to biking. I also plan to launch a website that will help unite all the great cycling groups, programs, initiatives and resources that are available across Toronto to help build awareness of the Bicycle Mayor network and encourage neighbouring cities to join the network. https://bicyclemayortoronto.ca/ Currently just Waterloo and Toronto have bicycle mayors, and it would be great to expand the network to other Ontario cities such as Guelph, Brampton, Burlington, Oakville, Niagara, Brampton, Oshawa and Ottawa.
Anything else you’d like to add?
AS: Biking remains the healthiest and most efficient way to get around for distances under 5km, and once you can convince someone to give it a try, they will get hooked — especially if it is an e-bike. People ride for different reasons depending on their needs. I personally mostly ride “acoustic” bikes, but I love getting out on an e-bike when I get the opportunity. More older adults are now seen biking in Toronto and around the world because of e-bikes.
Thanks for your time and all the best going forward. AS: Thanks as well for giving me the opportunity to share my views.
For more on the Bicycle Mayor of Toronto visit www.x.com/ BicycleMayorTO.
For more on the Bicycle Mayor global program visit www. bycs.org
In early August, the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee approved the LithiumIon Batteries Act, marking another step forward to enact the important safety bill into law. This follows the approval in May by the House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support, similar to its unanimous passing (420) by the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee in early Dec. 2023.
BY BENJAMIN SADAVOY
The Bill now moves to the Senate floor, which will be followed by a review by a conference committee made up of House and Senate members before final approval.
“We do not have any information on the timing of the Senate approval at this point,” commented Gabe Knight, policy advocate for Consumer Reports. “But there’s momentum given the public safety issues here. This Bill also specifically directs the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) to promulgate a safety standard ‘not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act’.”
The federal U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is
aware of 19 deaths associated with micro-mobility device fires from January 1, 2021 through November 28, 2022. In New York City alone, since just the start of 2023, malfunctioning lithium-ion batteries have been linked to 243 fires and 18 deaths — up from six deaths in all of 2022.
When lithium-ion batteries and other high-energydensity batteries are poorly made, overused, tampered with, or charged too long, they can overheat and cause fastspreading fires that are hard to extinguish.
In Toronto, last New Year’s Eve, a lithium-ion battery failure caused an e-bike to burst into flames on a subway car
NYC Mayor Eric Adams announces the New York City Safe Charging Accelerator for safe e-bike usage and charging.
CITY OF NEW YORK
resulting in a “significant and aggressive” fire. A Vancouver woman is suing several e-bike and e-scooter companies, alleging that faulty lithium-ion batteries caused a fatal fire two years ago that resulted in her spouse’s death.
Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) based in Northbrook, Illinois is a global safety certification company that conducts quality and safety tests to ensure safety, performance efficiency, quality, and environmental impact on a variety of wires and cables, such as extension cords, along with e-mobility products.
Battery safety standard, UL2271, is one step in the process. More and more e-bike companies are signing on to the UL2849 certification for the entire electrical system said Dejan Gakovic, Manager of Data Centers & Enterprise Systems at UL Solutions during a recent presentation at the (e)revolution show in Denver.
New York City, the site of some of the worst e-bike battery fires, is taking action. In March, NYC activated the first of five public e-bike battery charging locations as part of the city’s new six-month pilot program to test safe, public charging of lithium-ion batteries by an initial group of 100 delivery workers.
After five months the successful initiative in conjunction with the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY), Workers Justice Project/ Los Deliveristas Unidos, and several other partners boasted over 8,000 battery swaps and nearly 1,000 charging sessions completed.
physical damage to the battery case or warranty seal.
In addition, Metrolinx is making room for more bikes due to increased demand for bicycle and e-bike transport and will build eight additional designated bike coaches that can each hold up to 22 bikes — more than double the current number of bike coaches.
The Canadian Electric Bicycle Association (CEBA) offers online courses to educate bicycle dealers in the servicing of e-bikes. “We’ve trained over 200 dealers across Canada and the USA,” commented CEBA President, Michael Pasquali. “We also teach safe handling, storage, charging, disposal and best practices regarding lithium batteries.”
In July, Mayor Eric Adams launched the New York City Safe Charging Accelerator to expedite approvals for property owners to speed up the installation of e-bike battery swapping and charging cabinets on public sidewalks, removing barriers to their installation and making them accessible and usable for e-bike users.
The New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) also launched the nation’s first municipal trade-in pilot program for unsafe e-bikes and other powered mobility devices and their batteries, allowing eligible food delivery workers to replace their unsafe devices with certified, highquality e-bikes and batteries. A $1 million public education and awareness campaign on the dangers of unsafe lithiumion batteries by FDNY was also part of the Accelerator initiative.
Toronto’s Metrolinx updated its e-bike policy to ensure trains, buses and stations are safer, requiring all e-bike batteries to meet standard UL or CE requirements, and there must be no
Pasquali has been invited to Toronto Fire Department lithium-ion battery working groups, attended the Charged for LiFE (Lithium-ion Fire Education) Symposium as a panellist and works regularly with the NBDA (National Bicycle Dealers Association) on their E-Bike Safety & Standards Panel — see our interview with Pasquali on p 18.
“As the e-bike and e-scooter market continues to evolve, the NBDA is committed to ensuring that safety remains a top priority for retailers and consumers alike. The recent LithiumIon Battery Safety Bill is a crucial step toward creating a more stable and regulated environment in both the U.S. and Canada. This is about protecting our communities, our customers, and the future of the e-bike industry,” commented Heather Mason, President of the NBDA.
CEBA recently partnered with Call2Recycle, one of the largest and most reliable battery recycling programs, to exclusively sell the Lithium-Ion Battery Incident Kit (LIBIK) to Canadian e-bike retailers. The kit assists in addressing potential battery incidents and/or allowing more time to get to safety and call emergency services — read more on p 10.
Call2Recycle, founded in 1994, runs separate operations in Canada and the USA. It became involved with e-bikes back in 2021, in partnership with People for Bikes, and the firstever industrywide, voluntary e-bike battery recycling program was launched. This partnership led to the creation of a safe, effective, and sustainable ecosystem and supply chain for e-bike batteries.
The popularity of e-bikes is showing no signs of slowing down as the micromobility sector continues to expand worldwide. The implementation of national standards, safeguards and regulations is a major component of building a safe and stable environment where all stakeholders can benefit.
Success in NYC as DOT Commissioner Rodriguez charges a lithium-ion battery.
Toronto’s Metrolinx adds eight bicycle coaches to GO Train network.
NYC e-bike fires due to faulty lithium-ion batteries.
CEBA’s Michael Pasquali Talks Shop on eBike Battery Safety Issues
The Canadian Electric Bicycle Association (CEBA) is busier than usual these days as issues and concerns regarding e-bike batteries continue to heat up. Launched in 2019 by Michael Pasquali, owner of Electric Avenue E-bikes shop in Hamilton, Ont., the association is active with local fire officials, the National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA) in the US, and others. CEBA’s main mission is to offer training courses to bike shops to help diagnose and repair e-bikes, along with providing best practices for e-bike batteries. We caught up with Pasquali for his take on the current situation.
Please give us a brief background of your expertise with e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries.
Michael Pasquali: I’ve been in the industry for 15 years and I am the CEO at Electric Avenue E-bikes in Hamilton, Ontario. I recognized early on that the emerging e-bike industry didn’t have an organization championing its operations in Canada and launched CEBA in 2019.
The dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries have led to fires in NYC, Toronto & other major cities. Your thoughts?
MP: There have been numerous public education campaigns to inform consumers and riders on the best practices for the safe usage, storage and handling of lithium batteries. But these have been primarily targeted to end users and not to bike dealers who are selling and/or repairing e-bikes and micro-mobility devices. CEBA was developed to bridge the gap between distributors, bike shops and consumers by focusing on helping to educate dealers, and in turn dealers can help educate consumers.
Tell us about your meetings with the Toronto Fire Dept. and other organizations on lithium-ion batteries.
MP: We were invited to the Toronto Fire Department’s lithiumion battery working group and presented our lithium battery safe handling, usage and storage best practices, as well as addressing the gaps in our industry. This caught the attention of the Ontario Fire Marshal, and we were asked to be a panellist at the Charged for Life battery symposium.
You’ve also worked with the National Bicycle Dealers Association in the US… tell us more.
MP: The NBDA is a well-respected organization in the USA, and their President Heather Mason is a great leader. She organized and formed a Bicycle Industry E-bike Safety and Standards Panel with representatives from across the US and Canada — CEBA is a panellist. The meetings discuss current issues and gaps for dealers selling e-bikes. Topics discussed range from lithium battery best practices, to insurance, fire safety, servicing e-bikes, compliance, supplier best practices, codes standards and certifications. It’s great to see experts in their respective fields come together to provide insights and specialized knowledge that the industry needs — from UL Solutions, NYC Fire Department, Insurance experts and folks like Larry Pizzi, Chair of the Electric Bicycle Subcommittee at People For Bikes, who you recently interviewed.
BY BENJAMIN SADAVOY
What effort is the cycling industry taking to address the problem as e-bikes are gaining in popularity?
MP: Organizations pertaining to bicycles and e-bikes could be better aligned on the issues that affect our industry. Particularly with e-bikes the focus is very fragmented, and more collaboration would bring a louder voice to represent the industry in addition to gaining a broader perspective. While CEBA’s primary focus is electric bikes, and other organizations focus on cycling in general, there is plenty of overlap and I believe that if we could align our interests, we would present a better position for cycling as a whole.
What steps need to be taken to address the problem?
MP: There are several problems, issues and gaps that need to be addressed. Establishing mandatory industry standards would be a great starting point to minimize the related safety issues. Currently we have a standard for lithium batteries UL 2271, as well as UL 2849 which covers the whole e-bike. But these standards are not yet mandatory in Canada and the USA. Proactive manufacturers and distributors are ensuring that their e-bikes meet both UL standards to increase safety, giving consumers confidence when purchasing e-bikes that have been certified. Continuing to educate dealers and the public is another important step in creating a safer environment.
How is CEBA assisting with solutions for the e-bike community and industry?
MP: CEBA offers online courses with expertise and proven techniques for bike shops to service any make or model of e-bike that has a brushless hub motor, which is one of the most common types on the market today. As well we work with distributors to assist in ensuring their dealers are welltrained to service their respective products. We also teach the safe handling of lithium batteries, including storage, charging, disposal and best practices. One of CEBA’s main goals is to have e-bike technicians recognized as a trade and for every dealer to have a certified technician — similar to the auto industry.
CEBA’s Michael Pasquali
4.8” tires mid drive motor
133km range confirmed by independent testing @ Electric Bike Report 500W | 48V | 720Wh
130Nm max. torque ride in class 1*, class 2, or class 3** set PAS to 3, 5, 7, or 9 levels
*Throttle can be fully disabled to comply with local trail restrictions. **up to 45km/h pedal assist where permitted.
Exceptional Value Electric Fatbike
Enjoy optimal control and ride handling while keeping a comfort, relaxed, upright posture. The concealed in-frame battery delivers up to 85 km of range, and the Bafang motor makes hill climbing a breeze with its ‘best in class’ 80 Nm max. torque. Need a speed boost? Just hit the throttle! Plus, the 4-inch fat tires provide increased stability and high shock absorption for a smooth, suspension-like ride.
Excelling at high speed rides. Outperforming most others when low speed assistance is required (in snow, sand, or other loose terrain). The Quest Eclipse is the perfect affordable eBike for comfortable year-round riding.
FIND THE BEST PRICE
eSYSTEMS
Bosch Upgrades its Smart System and Flow App for 2025
For 2025, Bosch eBike Systems is integrating AI-based solutions into its Smart System, which recognizes user behaviour and learns from it, allowing for smarter route planning, navigation and more.
The new Range Control feature allows riders to plan routes via the eBike Flow app which evaluates the system weight, the elevation profile of the route, and personal riding behaviour during recent rides to indicate the percentage of battery charge remaining when you reach your destination.
The predicted battery level is also updated during the journey based on your riding style. You can even set the desired minimum battery level at the destination and the smart system then adjusts the motor support accordingly. The system’s accuracy increases with more usage and data.
Riders also benefit from personalized route suggestions. The smart system knows, for example, which road types, surfaces, gradients and speeds are preferred, and makes a corresponding route recommendation.
eBike Flow app and view it for better planning. The “extended navigation” feature enhances the navigation display on the Kiox 300 and Kiox 500 displays with the planned route and junctions, including all side roads. Both features are part of the Flow+ subscription service.
The new Eco+ mode lets riders save energy and increase range by turning off the motor automatically, i.e., on flat terrain and re-engaging assistance on climbs or when overtaking via an activation threshold setting. The Eco+ mode is available for all drive units with the Smart System and can be installed on e-bikes using the Flow app.
The “current charge level” feature allows riders to track the battery status live during the charging process on the
Riders with Bosch eBike ABS can now view the associated values such as brake duration in the statistics in Activity Tracking. In addition, the display of the Purion 200 control unit can now also be customized according to rider preferences. Finally, Bosch is also expanding its eShift portfolio in the Smart System with new partner solutions from TRP and Shimano. eShift with TRP is the first electric gear shifting solution with derailleur gears in a Smart System, and riders can select automatic or manual gear shifting. Shimano’s Di2 Nexus and Di2 Cues are now compatible with eShift to ensure gear shifts are smooth and quiet for city or performance riding.
New Range Control for better route planning and managing battery levels.
Bosch eBike is integrating AI-based solutions into its Smart System for 2025.
new EP5 and E5100 systems deliver the best of both worlds.
Shimano
Unveils New EP5 and E5100 eDrive Systems
Just prior to Eurobike in early July, Shimano unveiled its EP5 and E5100 drive units targeted to commuters, weekend adventurers, and for families picking up their kids, running errands, etc.
The EP5 boasts a sleek, compact design and a maximum torque of 60Nm for a powerful yet quiet mix of reliable performance including three customizable assist modes: Eco, Trail and Boost.
Along with Auto Shift for both rear derailleur and internal hub gear (IHG) drivetrains, the E-Tube Project Cyclist App allows you to personalize your ride with up to 15 unique assist characters such as Fine Tune mode, Max Torque, and Assist Start in Basic Mode.
With pedal-assist up to 28mph (45kph), this new lightweight EP5 drive unit, Class 3 in the USA, weighs 3kg and balances performance and efficiency.
The new E5100 features up to 50Nm of torque and offers a lightweight and responsive support system at 2.4kg, along with a natural feel and reliable performance for commuting and everyday adventures.
Providing pedal-assist support up to 20mph, you can personalize your ride and customize the level of power with the E-Tube Project Cyclist App. Auto Shift is only available on internal hub gear (IHG) drivetrains.
The range of the EP500 and E5100 e-drive units is based on different battery sizes: 418Wh, 504Wh and 630 Wh. Both systems are compatible with V-brakes, disc brakes, roller brakes and coaster brakes.
Shimano’s E-Bike Systems use sensors and drive unit tuning to provide optimal assistance based on real-time riding data.
Shimano’s
Shimano’s new EP5 drive with 60Nm of torque.
For daily commutes or cycling adventures.
Shimano’s lightweight and compact E5100 drive unit.
eSYSTEMS
Dutch iMove is one of over 40 brands that integrated Bafang’s new GVT system.
Bafang’s New Gear Variable Transmission & 5-Speed Automatic Gear Hub
Earlier this year, Bafang introduced its innovative Gear Variable Transmission (GVT) technology platform along with its new G500A, an internal 5-speed automatic shift hub designed for high-powered e-fat bikes.
The new GVT system offers precise automatic shifting mechanisms and advanced transmission control, creating seamless and smooth gear changes.
Debuting at the 2024 China Cycle Show, the G500A automatic hub is belt drive–friendly and according to Bafang reduces common maintenance issues and durability concerns in shift systems, thus extending the overall lifespan of e-bikes.
Designed to effectively tackle challenging terrain, including snow and sand, the G500A can withstand torque ratings of up to 200Nm to significantly reduce the impact and possible damage to the chain and freewheel caused by high torque. It can also support higher speeds up to 45kph and 60kph.
Available with 175mm and 190mm dropout options, Bafang’s rigorous testing standards claim that
Bafang’s innovative G500A 5-speed automatic hub.
each of the five gears in the G500A undergoes at least 10,000 impact tests, ensuring durability and rider confidence.
“Over the past three years, we have launched the automatic hub motor and the automatic gear hub series, both of which have received positive feedback from various markets,” commented Zou Bin, the chief engineer of the Bafang GVT system.
The new G500A undergoes at least 10,000 impact tests.
In the industry, the shifting performance of high-power eBikes has always been a hot topic. Due to the high output power, traditional external shifting systems face challenges with increased risk of damage. To address this, Bafang has introduced the GVT automatic shifting hub motor series including the H700, H710 and H720, covering power ranges from 250W to 1000W.
“Over 40 e-bike brands globally, including Dutch iMove and France’s Eovolt, have integrated our GVT products across urban, touring, cargo, and fat e-bike categories,” said Yingzhe Wang, Bafang’s head of R&D. “Without the need for shifting cables or external cassettes, you’ll find more folding bikes and urban shared bikes equipped with GVT series products. Looking ahead, we will continue to explore more possibilities on this platform.”
Mahle Launches New X30 Drive System
In mid-June, Mahle SmartBike Systems launched its new X30 drive system for e-bikes. The exciting new system features a lightweight hub motor delivering 45Nm of torque and is designed to perform well on any terrain.
Weighing just 1.9kg (4.2 pounds), the X30 is compatible with all the components, accessories, and digital environment of Mahle’s X20 system, claimed as the lightest e-bike drive system in the world.
The new X30 can be equipped with Pulsar ONE, eShifters, iX2 (237Wh) or iX3 (350Wh) batteries and even Mahle’s e185 External Battery eX1 that’s designed to fit into a water bottle holder. The e185 features 171Wh of capacity for up to 55km of additional range, for almost 190km capacity in total.
The versatile X Series platform also allows the
integration of a pedal assist sensor, and a cadence and torque sensor, for more precise watt analysis and motor response.
Together with AI, the system can learn from the rider’s behaviour and adapt to both the rider and their environment for an improved riding experience.
According to Mahle, the design of the new rear hub motor allows for increased energy efficiency by 15%, compared to a mid-drive motor, and is suitable for all types of riders including road, city, trails and even children’s e-bikes.
For bicycle manufacturers, the new X30 system can also be customized according to the DNA of bicycle brands via motor mapping. Mahle is already working with industry partners such as Bianchi, Husqvarna and Stevens, among others.
Mahle’s new X30 drive system features 45Nm torque and weighs just 1.9kg.
A torque sensor delivers more precise watt analysis.
Perfect for urban riders for commuting.
Suitable for kids as well.
The new Mahle X30 e-drive system.
eSYSTEMS
ZF’s new ultra-compact CentriX e-bike drive unit features 90Nm of torque.
ZF Global Debuts New eBike Drive System at Eurobike Global automotive supplier ZF Group debuted its new 48-volt drive system for e-bikes at Eurobike 2024 in Frankfurt. The ZF Bike Eco System includes a motor, battery, control unit, app and a connection to the cloud.
The core component is the ultra-compact CentriX middrive unit that’s available in two versions: the CentriX 90 with 90Nm of torque and a maximum output of 600 watts targeted at mountain, trekking or SUV-style e-bikes, while the CentriX 75 with a torque of 75Nm and a maximum output of 450 watts is designed for gravel, commuter, or urban e-bikes.
Based on a 48-volt architecture and delivering 250 watts of continuous power, ZF offers two lithium-ion battery options, including 504Wh and 756Wh units, which are mounted in the downtube using an innovative rail system and can be removed for charging.
The mid-motor is the heart of the newly developed 48-volt drive system for e-bikes.
The Core Controller is integrated into the top tube and displays information such as the battery charge status via an intuitive circular LED display. As an option, a remote or highresolution 2.8-inch colour display with touch functionality can be connected to the handlebars. In addition, smartphones can also be charged via innovative magnetic spring contacts.
The ZF app can be accessed with Bluetooth for more features such as navigation, route recording, bike status and over-the-air software updates via the cloud, while additional comfort and safety features are planned for the future as the system expands.
The ZF Bike Eco System also provides interfaces and integration options for thirdparty providers. Germany’s Raymon Bicycles is one of the first bicycle manufacturers to partner with ZF for its new Tarok full-suspension eMTB with 160mm of travel, available in early 2025.
ZF’s new Bike Eco System.
Developed for MTBs, trekking bikes or urban bikes.
DJI Global Launches Avinox eDrive and Amflow PL eMTB
At Eurobike in Frankfurt this past July, DJI, the global leader in civilian drones and innovative camera technology, unveiled its Avinox Drive System for eMTBs, winning a Eurobike Award in the Best Components category.
At the heart of the Avinox Drive System is a compact drive unit that weighs 2.52kg yet delivers an impressive 105Nm of torque and is remarkably quiet. The new system features DJI’s Smart-Assist Algorithm, which leverages multi-sensor fusion to automatically and continuously adjust assistance based on riding resistance.
Riders can choose from four assist modes — Auto, Eco, Trail, and Turbo — or activate Boost mode for an extra surge of power when needed. The system offers two lightweight, high-energy density battery options: 600Wh and 800Wh.
A 2-inch OLED full-colour control built-in touchscreen display serves as the interactive hub of the system and the Avinox app allows for further customization for a more personalized riding experience. The system also includes innovative dual Wireless Controllers with Bluetooth connectivity for added convenience.
DJI’s new Amflow PL electric mountain bike is equipped with the DJI Avinox e-bike drive system and offers 850W of peak power (with 250W nominal power) in a lightweight package at 19.2kg.
The four-bar linkage structure boasts improved pedalling efficiency, and the full suspension by Fox delivers smooth riding over varied terrain. The Amflow PL frame structure is compatible with both 27.5” and 29” rear wheels.
Amflow PL also has Walk mode, Auto Hold and Hill Start Assist. When connected to the Avinox app, riders have access to customizable parameters, Anti-theft Mode1 and Remote Locating.
DJI’s new Amflow PL electric mountain bike is equipped with the new Avinox e-bike drive system.
The quiet and compact Avinox Drive System with 105Nm of torque weighs 2.52kg.
The Avinox app offers Anti-theft Mode1, Remote Locating and more.
DJI’s new Amflow PL eMTB
Trek Slash+ 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type
The Trek Slash+ 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type is a long-travel enduro eMTB with an OCLV carbon frame and high-pivot suspension. TQ’s quiet 250W HPR50 motor with 50Nm of torque is paired with a removable 580Wh battery for up to seven hours of assist with an optional 160Wh range extender. Dual suspension comes in the form of the 170mm/170mm RockShox Ultimate Package, and a RockShox Reverb dropper post ensures you can maneuver your weight as needed. SRAM X0 AXS 12-speed wireless shifting is smooth and reliable, while SRAM Maven 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes provide ultimate stopping power. This mullet-style build has Bontrager carbon wheels with 29” front and 27.5” rear for superior handling. The SRP is $15,999.
Mondraker Sly RR
The Sly RR by Mondraker is an enduro eMTB that features a lightweight alloy frame equipped with FOX dual suspension and an OnOff Pija dropper seatpost for supreme handling, even on the toughest terrain. The Bosch Smart System pairs the powerful, lightweight Performance Line SX motor featuring 55Nm of torque with a 400Wh PowerTube battery for all-day riding capabilities. Sprint mode provides intuitive, dynamic support for quick starts, fast sprints and steep climbs. SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed shifting and Code Bronze Stealth hydraulic disc brakes ensure a smooth riding experience. The SRP is $9,499.
Norco Bigfoot VLT A1
The Bigfoot VLT A1 by Norco is a fat-tired e-bike ready for adventure. Powered by Shimano’s EP8 drive system with 85Nm of torque, it can be combined with a 540Wh, 720Wh or 900Wh in-tube battery depending on rider preference. The 900Wh battery boasts 3,500m of elevation gain and up to 63km of range. Shimano Deore 12-speed shifting and powerful SRAM hydraulic disc brakes ensure a smooth, reliable ride, even in the toughest conditions. A Manitou Mastodon 100mm front fork and cushy WTB Bailiff 4.5 x 27.5” tires tackle even the bumpiest terrain with ease. The SRP is $7,148.
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Pivot Cycles Shuttle LT
The revamped Pivot Cycles’ Shuttle LT eMTB features a Bosch Performance Line CX Race motor with 85Nm. The four levels of pedal assist also include a new race mode designed for XC racing and the 750Wh battery can be supplemented with a 250Wh extender. The SRAM Eagle 12-speed shifting and Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes ensure smooth riding. The full carbon, dual DW-Link suspension features a Fox Live Valve Neo shock and a 170mm Fox 38 front fork with custom eMTB tune. Mullet-style wheels (29”/27.5”) deliver optimal handling. The SRP is $8,699.
eACCESSORIES
Selle Royal On Open Saddle
The On Open saddle by Selle Royal is an e-bike-specific saddle with a focus on comfort and functionality. Based on their popular On saddle line, the On Open features a durable structure, E-Fit design to help find the best position, and a central hole which relieves pressure in the perineal area and offers greater ischial support. Royalgel™ absorbs pressure and distributes it evenly across the surface of the saddle. The On Open is available in three different styles, Athletic, Moderate and Relaxed, to meet your riding needs. It also includes E-Grip to help maneuver the e-bike and an Integrated Clip System for accessories. The SRP is $125.
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Trek CarBack Radar Rear Bike Light
Trek’s new CarBack Radar Rear Bike Light helps detect rearapproaching vehicles from up to 240m and provides audio and visual alerts on most major GPS cycling computers, GPS smart watches and smart phones via the Trek Accessory app for increased on-bike awareness. The daytime-visible light is designed with four light flash modes that can be seen by drivers from up to 2km away. CarBack can be quickly recharged through a USB-C charge port, and has an IPX7 waterproof rating. Visible fuel gauge LEDs make it easy to see CarBack’s 7+ hour battery status. Includes Quick Connect Plus rear mount and USB-C charging cable. The SRP is $264.99.
Muc-Off Pressure Washer Bicycle Bundle
Muc-Off has created the world’s first pressure washer built specifically for bikes. The 1200W washer is safe to use on bearings, suspension and delicate surfaces, and it includes everything needed for a quick, spotless cleaning using Nano Technology. The custom lance fits directly onto Muc-Off bottles, meaning no additional bottle is needed for mixing or diluting. The dial allows you to adjust the level of foam concentration for a customized clean. This lightweight and compact bundle makes it perfect for travel and taking to events. It even comes with a handy 30L waterproof Dry Bag for easy transport and storage. The SRP is $449.99.
Aeroe Spider Front Rack
The brand-new Aeroe Spider Front Rack is an MTB- and eMTB-specific front suspension fork pannier rack that’s perfect for commuting or adventures. The quick-release rack mounts easily with no need for inbuilt mounts or fiddly axle mounting. Designed to carry all major pannier bags, dry bags, tents, sleeping bags or pods, your gear and rack will stay super secure and stable, no matter the ride. Compatible with tires up to 3.8″ wide, this innovative front rack weighs 641g and has a maximum load of up to 16kg. It’s also compatible with all Spider accessories to customize based on your needs. The SRP is $210.
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VANCOUVER 10 - WAVE
BOSCH POWERTUBE + 4A CHARGER
MIK HD CARRIER MIK
CARRIER
eADVENTURES
Canada, USA, International
Cycling tourism continues to gain popularity as more and more people love the idea of exploring on two wheels. E-bikes remain the most popular electric vehicle worldwide, as they open doors and opportunities for folks who are eager for adventure and the great outdoors. In this issue, we cover Penticton’s amazing cycling options, the stunning landscapes and trails in El Paso, Texas, and Portugal’s unique and diverse terrain for exciting cycling adventures of a lifetime.
Penticton boasts great climate and a fabulous array of cycling trails for all ages and abilities.
Cycling in Penticton
With one of the best year-round climates in Canada, the cycling season in Penticton, B.C. is long and enjoyable, and it features a fabulous array of trails and rides for cyclists of all ages and abilities.
A paradise for mountain bikers
Whether you’re looking for a challenging road cycling excursion, a rugged route down a mountainside, or a leisurely trail among the region’s local wineries, Penticton’s got it all.
Try the popular 30km Naramata Loop from downtown through lush vineyards and orchards into the quaint village of Naramata, as you take in spectacular vistas over Okanagan Lake. Or truly challenge yourself against the best athletes in the world and follow the IRONMAN Canada route.
Adventurous mountain bikers will find the exhilarating Three Blind Mice, the largest network of singletrack trails in the area. With over 200 trails and 350km of trails, there’s terrain for all levels, with cross-country trails and downhill runs that flow through the forest and offer incredible views.
The iconic and family-friendly cycling route in Penticton, the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail, is just a stone’s throw from the city.
Also part of the Trans Canada Trail, the KVR Trail section between Penticton and Naramata is surrounded by vineyards and orchards, and it’s arguably the most developed section of the entire KVR. Along the way, try the popular 34km Little Tunnel route, about 2.5 hours roundtrip by bike, featuring a slight 2.2% grade with plenty of wineries and lookout stops along the way — plus, e-bike rentals are available.
Penticton is also home to countless cycling events such as the Penticton Bike Festival, the Okanagan Trestles Tour, the Kettle Mettle Gravel Fondo, the Peach Classic Triathlon, the renowned Okanagan Granfondo, and the world-class IRONMAN Canada triathlon.
Formed in 2008, the Penticton and Area Cycling Association (PACA) is a not-for-profit organization that helps with the maintenance and development of over 200km of trails in Penticton and the surrounding area. You’ll also find large trail maps, bike repair stations, top-notch tour companies, and rental and retail shops offering everything needed for your adventures.
Penticton is one of only two cities in the world situated between two lakes. The fresh waters of Okanagan and Skaha Lakes are ideal for a variety of water activities, whether it’s taking a cooling swim, exploring the coves by kayak, or catching air on a kiteboard.
With a cozy community feel, you’ll find a wide range of comfortable accommodations, world-class culinary options and eateries, eight craft breweries, shopping, cultural experiences, boutique stores, tucked away cafés, lakefront patios, along with health and wellness services amidst the natural landscape that surrounds the city.
Amenities galore
PHOTOS: VISIT PENTICTON
Cycling in El Paso, Texas
For fabulous road cycling and mountain biking, look no further than the border town of El Paso, Texas.
Home to lively culture, unique history and stunning landscapes, El Paso also offers a host of inner-city rides. E-bikes are welcome on most trails and are also offered via the city’s bike sharing system.
The beautiful 200-acre Palisades Canyon is smack in the middle of town and features a multi-use 4.4-mile loop.
McKelligon Canyon Road is a relatively easy, out-andback 4.8-mile trail for all skill levels and features Chihuahuan Desert wildlife.
Try the popular and moderately challenging 7.7-mile mountain biking loop at the Lost Dog Trail Head nature preserve in Northwest El Paso.
The 9-mile Old Blue Mad Lazy Cow Loop makes for a varied MTB adventure that can be completed in just over an hour by an average rider. Within the city limits is Franklin Mountains State Park, with over 125 miles of multi-use trails that are popular with mountain bikers. Camping and picnicking options are also available.
El Paso features amazing eateries to fuel up such as the Taconeta, a culinary journey with tantalizing Mexican cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
Cattleman’s Steakhouse at Indian Cliffs Ranch boasts what many locals claim is the best steak in the region, including their renowned steamed wine mushrooms, along with homemade pecan pie for a decadent finish.
For quality Mexican meals and immaculately made classic margaritas, L&J Café is one of the oldest family-owned establishments in the city.
Quality accommodations include the Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park with 130 rooms and suites, providing guests with a fourstar experience.
Hotel Paso Del Norte is El Paso’s 108-year-old icon with 351 rooms where you can experience its authentic 1900s splendour. Both hotels offer superb restaurants and rooftop bars.
Don’t miss the Downtown El Paso Mural Tour to learn more about the local art scene and marvel at the intricate murals decorating the city.
For a journey back in time, explore the historic 9-mile Mission Trail that features museums, national landmarks, art galleries, delicious restaurants and a brewery.
Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site is also great for more outdoor adventures, including guided and self-guided tours to view pictographs and petroglyphs. The interpretive centre, in a historic ranch house, is a must-visit.
Known as the “Sun City,” with over 300 days of sunshine each year on average, El Paso is an ideal place for cycling adventures and year-round outdoor activities.
El Paso, Texas is home to fabulous road cycling and mountain biking.
PHOTOS:
Franklin Mountains State Park is popular with mountain bikers.
Quality hotels
Cycling along the Costa Vicentina in the Algarve region is an unforgettable adventure.
Cycling in Portugal for Unforgettable Adventures
Exploring Portugal by bike is a unique experience heralded by its diverse landscapes, beautiful scenery, stunning beaches, and charming towns and villages. The cycling options seem endless, and the views can be breathtaking from the Douro Valley in the north, to the capital Lisbon, and the famed Algarve region in the south. Here’s a snapshot look at several excursions to whet your appetite.
Discovering Lisbon on two wheels is a great way to explore the country’s vibrant capital city. The popular 20km Tagus River route takes in the port, the various docks, and the city’s most important historic zones including Alfama, Europe’s oldest neighbourhood.
Another great ride is the Avenida Duque d’Ávila urban route through the gardens of Campo Grande towards the Quinta das Conchas. Try the cycle path through Jardim Amália Rodrigues to Parque Eduardo VII, or the silent and calm routes in Parque das Nações.
Stretch your legs with a 30km excursion to Sintra, west of the city. Take in the beautiful Atlantic coastline and beaches including UNESCO forest woods, a farmer’s market on the weekends, and the region’s artistic heritage, as this was a getaway destination for elites and royalty.
For mountain bikers and eMTB riders, the 235km Camino de Santiago (the Way of St. James) starts in the northern city of Porto, three hours north of Lisbon, where you can visit UNESCO world heritage sites and sample the award-winning wines and port of the Douro River Valley while visiting historic estates.
Head north to Barcelos with its historic centre and Ponte de Lima, in the Minho region, touted as the oldest village in Portugal. The route continues past the fortified city of Valença do Minho, where you’ll cross into Spain and reach the medieval city of Tui. The beautiful coastal area of Galicia takes you to Pontevedra, and then it’s another 40km to Padrón, a region known for its peppers. Your final stop is Santiago de Compostela, the capital of northwest Spain’s Galicia region,
and the culmination of this renowned pilgrimage route to the burial site of the biblical apostle St. James.
Portugal boasts more great mountain bike rides in the Lousã and Estrela mountain ranges and at Louzan Park along with Manteigas Bike Park.
Cycling along the Costa Vicentina in the Algarve region, from Odeceixe to Sagres, is an unforgettable 60km road cycling adventure. Featuring spectacular ocean views, secluded beaches and dramatic cliffs, this area is part of the Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina Natural Park and is the longest stretch of protected Portuguese coast.
Visit the Castle of Aljezur, built in the 10th century. Along the way, enjoy the local cuisine famous for its sweet potatoes and shellfish. Further south, the imposing landmark Pedra da Agulha rises out of the sea as you head to Praia do Amado beach, a surfing favourite.
Take in Vila do Bispo, a parish church covered to the ceiling with tiles as you press on the Sagres, the southernmost point of Portugal featuring fabulous and dazzling views including a lighthouse on the Cape, which is one of the most powerful in Europe with a range of 95km.
Portugal offers numerous local cycling tour companies for self-guided and full-service group adventures, including rentals of bicycles, mountain bikes, e-bikes or eMTBs.
Fabulous option for mountain bikers and eMTB riders.
Explore Lisbon on two wheels.
Cuba offers superb cycling vacation destinations where you can enjoy white sand beaches, colorful landscapes, fabulous cycling trails, and plenty of opportunities to relax and explore the outdoors.
• Heritage Sites
• Stunning Landscapes
• Full Supported Tours
• Road, Gravel & MTB Adventures
• Turquoise Beaches
• Hidden Gems
Unforgettable cycling adventures with the experts at Aventuras CanBiCuba S.A. www.bicyclebreeze.net
Cycling Cities on the Move
Canada, USA, International
BY JACK CRACKER
As more and more cities embrace active transportation to build stronger and smarter mobility networks for sensible green options, the move towards communities based on two wheels continues to grow. In this issue, we cover London in Ontario, Jersey City in New Jersey, and Valencia in Spain, for a look at how three unique and innovative perspectives are creating better cycling infrastructure, connectivity and mobility options for their respective residents.
Jersey City hopes to quadruple its cycling by 2025.
London receives $24.5 million and plans to add over 300km of cycling facilities by 2050.
London, Ont. – Population 447,255
London, Ont. has come a long way since its first cycling master plan was developed back in 2005.
An injection of $24.5 million in July for active transportation infrastructure improvements by the federal government, the province and the City of London is welcome news. Approximately 60% will be directed to new cycling lanes and bicycle parking facilities.
The city plans to boost its current 360km network of on-road cycling facilities and off-road pathways, including almost 45km of separated bike lanes, by adding over 300km of additional cycling facilities by 2050.
According to its 2016 Cycling Master Plan, soon to be superseded by a Mobility Master Plan, the modal share for cycling is approximately 1.4% and the approved goal for 2050 is 32.5% of trips by walking, cycling and transit.
Bicycle parking plans include designing and constructing one to three bike parking structures with 60-75 parking spaces, locking features, shelter, benches, lighting and signage.
Since 2021, the City has been testing secure bike parking lockers in three locations downtown, and the goal is to add more across the city. This initiative is tied to the upcoming rapid transit system as demand continues to grow.
In 2023, the City joined the provincial Cargo Power-assisted Bicycle pilot program, with a focus on raising awareness of their benefits including education on the regulations and rules of the road.
This past summer, the city hosted a successful 2-day event,
All About E-Bikes. The event was done in partnership with the London Environmental Network and London Cycle Link, where residents could learn more about e-bikes and e-cargo bikes and the options available to incorporate them into workplace environments and daily life, along with test rides.
London Cycle Link is a local advocacy group promoting safe streets and paths while fostering a thriving cycling culture. Its Ride to Thrive program provides cycling education to students in grades 5 and 6 to promote active transportation. The London Environmental Network offers environmental programs and climate action opportunities for all residents.
While there are currently no bikeshare operations in London, the City hopes to incorporate a program into their budget in the near future.
London has initiated a number of road safety campaigns to implement Vision Zero. Its goals include active and safe routes to school, leading pedestrian intervals, automated speed enforcement, protected intersections, lowering speed limits and more.
PHOTOS: CITY OF LONDON
More active transportation is welcome.
London’s successful 2-day event All About E-Bikes.
Jersey City - Population 293,542
Jersey City, the second-most populous city in the state of New Jersey, developed its Let’s Ride JC Bicycle Master Plan back in 2019. The plan was created in hopes of quadrupling cycling by 2025 and implementing bikeways on more than 50% of the city’s street network.
Mayor Steven Fulop is bullish on biking, and since coming into power in 2013 over 100 miles of dedicated facilities for cycling have been installed. This expansion has led to more than 26 miles of protected bike lanes and over 33 miles of buffered bike lanes.
Cycling has seen a 111% increase since 2020, with a 61% increase in Citi Bike ridership across the system.
Jersey City’s overall active transportation mode share is high, with 50% of all intracity trips on foot and an additional 8% using public transportation.
The Bicycle Master Plan goal is to increase cycling mode share by 400% by 2026, and the city has set an overall goal to exceed 3% cycling mode share citywide.
Citi Bike share, launched in 2015 with 53 stations citywide, successfully integrated e-bikes into the Jersey City fleet in 2021, with a significant increase in e-bike ridership since then.
Over 154,000 e-bike rides were recorded in the second quarter of 2024, a 5% increase from the first quarter, and e-bikes accounted for nearly 54% of the total rides in Q2 2024.
In 2022, Jersey City made history by launching the nation’s first comprehensive municipal secure bicycle parking and charging network in partnership with Oonee, based in Brooklyn, NY.
The first phase has been installed and consists of two high-capacity pods (24 bikes each), three 10-bike docks, and a mini unit that parks six bikes.
There are plans to expand the system to include 30 facilities across the city, servicing nearly 300,000 people.
Jersey City installs approximately 50 individual bike racks annually to support on-street bike parking, with nearly 700 public on-street bike racks currently installed.
As a baseline, the City dedicates approximately $5 million annually to road safety improvements, including bike infrastructure, protected bike lanes, bike parking, and $400,000 annually to subsidize the Citi Bike program.
Additionally, the City manages a number of federal and state grant-funded corridor safety projects valued at over $10 million that include safe cycling facilities.
Jersey City since became the first municipality in New Jersey to adopt Vision Zero five years ago with a goal to decrease cycling fatalities and serious injuries to zero by 2026.
Citibike launch: Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop (r) with Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla.
Jersey City launches USA’s first secure bicycle parking and charging network with Oonee.
Jersey City hopes to quadruple its cycling by 2025.
Valencia, the European Green Capital 2024, features over 200km of cycle paths.
Valencia, Spain - population 839,770
The Spanish city of Valencia started the new year with a new accolade: European Green Capital 2024. Valencia earned the title because of its ambitious sustainability strategy, including almost five million square metres of green areas and routes that showcase the city’s unique flavours.
With over 200 kilometres of cycle paths, Valencia is also a bike-friendly city thanks to its size, flatness and historic centre. A 5km cycling ring in the centre that was opened in 2017 has seen a 214% increase in ridership.
In addition, vehicles are not allowed to exceed 30 kilometres an hour in the city’s historic centre, a speed limit which applies to about 75% of Valencia’s roads.
The city’s first cycling lane was built in 1982, but for decades Valencia revered motor vehicles — until climate change demanded reversing this situation. With the approval of the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan in 2013, the city’s cycling network began to grow from 123km to 190km by 2022.
From 2015 to 2022, Valencia also reclaimed more than 150,000m² of green pedestrian areas and 2,182m² around 13 schools, resulting in 10% less traffic and a 10% increase in public transport usage, while emissions decreased by 15-25%.
One of the city’s most impressive green cycling corridors is the 9km Jardín del Turia, a relaxing route of gardens that cuts through the urban heart of the city for a leisurely and memorable cycling journey.
Another completely flat route starts at the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències and leads to beaches in the southside of the city, a 48km round trip excursion. Or try the 15km Via Xurra on an old railway line for exercise, nature and history as you explore these otherwise inaccessible rural environments.
There are also fabulous cycling adventures nearby with flat routes through the Albufera Natural Park, or more mountainous rides with mythical mountain passes inside two natural parks, the Sierra Calderona and the Sierra Espadán.
Valencia’s extensive network of cycle paths connects all of the city’s neighbourhoods, and there are also ciclocalles,
Valenbisi bike share boasts 2,750 bicycles via 275 stations.
bicycle-priority streets with lanes in the middle of the road, and a 30kph speed limit for general traffic.
The majority of residents, around 50%, move around the city by foot, with 6% choosing to cycle, while 16% use public transport and around 15% use private vehicles.
The city’s public bike-sharing system, Valenbisi, boasts 2,750 bicycles available via 275 stations that are set up in different strategic parts of the city to promote cycling and its integration into the transport chain. The first 30 minutes are free, and the service runs 24 hours a day year-round.
Valencia’s motto is “On a Mission Together” to reach their climate neutrality and environmental goals.
PHOTOS: CITY OF VALENCIA
An extensive network of cycle paths connects the city’s neighbourhoods.
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BY HAFEEZ ALAVI
Yamaha Crosscore RC
A Versatile eBike for Commuting and Urban Adventures
Yamaha’s Crosscore RC comes in a stunning platinum bronze colour.
Iwas stoked when given the opportunity to test the CrossCore RC as an introduction to Yamaha’s e-bike product lineup. The company has been in the e-bike game for over 30 years, launching the world’s first production electric bicycle back in 1993.
The current lineup showcases three eMTB models including the YDX-MORO 05, the YDX-MORO 07, and the 30th Anniversary Special Edition YDX-MORO 07. Also included are the Wabash RT performance drop-bar gravel e-bike and the lifestyle- and fitness-focused CrossCore RC e-bike.
The CrossCore RC comes in a stunning platinum bronze colour with a streamlined, clean and sport-oriented look that makes this well-designed machine a stand-out for both city commuting and light off-roading.
The in-tube aluminum closed cross-section frame design, unique to Yamaha’s Power Assist Bicycles, neatly houses the battery, wiring and brake cables.
Powering the CrossCore RC is Yamaha’s PW Series S2 drive unit, which according to their website is 1.2 lbs lighter and 20% more compact than the previous model.
With 75Nm of torque, this 250-watt drive unit includes a Yamaha Quad Sensor and delivers a smooth transition when going up steep inclines or when more power is needed off-road.
There are five pedal-assist modes to choose from including Standard, Eco, Eco+, High and Auto with a top assisted speed of 32kph.
The 500Wh 36V battery is discreetly encased in the downtube and can be easily removed for charging. According to Yamaha, the battery can recharge up to 80% in just an hour and fully recharge in about four hours — we can attest to how quick the charging is.
The range varies depending on the assist mode, terrain and riding conditions, delivering anywhere from 50 to 140 kilometres, which allows for many different kinds of excursions.
The CrossCore RC is equipped with a Shimano CUES 9-speed drivetrain, which offers smooth shifting. Whether I was climbing hills or navigating city traffic, the gears were quick and responsive, allowing for a hassle-free ride.
The Shimano hydraulic disc brakes are equally impressive. The stopping power is very strong yet smooth, which gave me confidence when braking in both dry and wet conditions.
Another nice touch is the SR Suntour NEX-E25-C front suspension fork featuring 2.5” of cushion which handled most terrain comfortably, without compromising the bike’s handling.
The Crosscore RC performed beautifully… and the motor is remarkably quiet.
All controls at your finger tips.
The ride quality of the CrossCore RC is fantastic. I took it on paved trails, roads, and light off-roading on some dirt and gravel trails near my home, and it performed beautifully.
Whether on pavement or dirt, the bike handled turns and bumps with ease. The wide CST 27.5x2.0” tires also helped keep things smooth.
It was remarkable how incredibly quiet the motor was, making it barely noticeable when riding. It’s also extremely smooth — so much so that you don’t even realize it’s working until you’re easily cruising past other cyclists.
The motor’s torque ensures that acceleration is both seamless and powerful, while the automatic assist, which has been updated for improved shift timing, adjusts depending on the force applied to the pedals.
I also rode the CrossCore RC to my office in downtown Toronto from Scarborough, a commute that I usually avoid with my regular bike. However, with the CrossCore RC, it was manageable — and fun! While still a bit of a workout, the pedal assist ensures that you’re not drenched in sweat when
Yamaha’s PW Series S2 drive unit is lighter and offers 75Nm of torque.
Charging the battery is a breeze… and fast.
eBIKE TEST
Comes with a bright front light for visibility and safety.
you arrive at the office.
The handlebar-mounted LED display shows information that you would expect such as speed, battery, distance, including buttons to control various functions like the pedal-assist modes, walk-assist and the front light, which is quite bright and another great feature for visibility and safety.
The CrossCore RC is also a fairly lightweight e-bike at 23.5kg (51.8 lbs), making it easier to lift compared to others in the marketplace — I could comfortably lift it with one hand. This feature is a great advantage if you’re someone who regularly brings their e-bike on public transit or transports it by car.
Overall, the Yamaha CrossCore RC is a versatile e-bike that excels in both city commuting and light off-road touring. Its premium features, sleek design and smooth ride make it a strong contender on all fronts.
The SRP is $3,799. For more information please visit www.yamaha-motor.ca/.
BY CHRIS REDDEN
Quest Eclipse
An eFatbike for Year-Round Commuting and Adventures
The introduction of fatbikes saw riders powering through sand and snow, allowing for more robust adventures year-round and in almost any condition.
The introduction of electric fatbikes virtually eliminated the challenge of overcoming the rolling resistance of larger fatbike tires, so we were stoked to test the new Quest Eclipse.
The Quest Eclipse is a sturdy e-fatbike that comes equipped with lots of extras and virtually everything needed to ride it year-round, making it a great commuting e-bike. The 6061 aluminum frame provides a solid backbone and durability while avoiding potential rust.
computer, and the display unit also sports a USB charging port that allows a mobile phone to be charged directly from the e-bike.
Powering the Eclipse is a 500W Bafang rear hub geared brushless motor that offers up to 80Nm of torque, along with a 32-pulse electronic sensor, plus nine power-assist levels that allow you to find your sweet spot on any terrain.
The system is controlled by a handlebar-mounted
Walk assist is also included as a great practical function when needed, and a thumb throttle offers an immediate boost to your speed when situations arise.
Paired with a 48-volt removable and lockable battery that has a range of 85km, there’s ample opportunity for almost any kind of adventure. The battery has a 4–6-hour charging time using the 120-volt smart charger.
Notably the entire electric system, including the components, motor, wiring, battery and charger, is UL 2849-certified, the highest safety standard on the market. In addition, the battery is UL 2271-certified, and the charger also carries a cUL mark, issued by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), meaning conformity to CSA guidelines.
The Eclipse is equipped with a Shimano Altus 7-speed
The Quest Eclipse is a sturdy e-fatbike equipped with virtually everything needed to ride it year-round.
Bafang 500W rear hub motor with 80Nm of torque
The Quest Eclipse is ready for robust adventures in almost all conditions.
transmission, along with Tektro cable-actuated disc brakes that have power cut-off sensors for added safety.
The Kenda Krusade 26”x4.0” tires allow the bike to roll over or through almost anything, and the stock fenders help keep you dry in wet conditions.
The front light is powered by the battery so you’re never in the dark. Another nice feature is that the rear light is illuminated when the brake lever is pulled, thereby acting as a brake light for an additional safety feature.
The rear-mounted rack is directly attached to the frame allowing for a large capacity, and the Eclipse also comes with the welcome addition of a kickstand. Not to be overlooked, a bell completes the commuting package.
The Eclipse provides a noticeably upright riding position which gives you a clear overview of the road ahead and will be appreciated by riders who may have back issues.
A 48-volt removable and lockable battery that has a range of 85km.
There are nine power-assist levels, and there isn’t a huge step between them. The first three levels are recommended for snow, sand and tough terrain. Levels 4-6 are for regular riding, and levels 7-9 can be engaged for climbing and highspeed rides.
The Bafang motor quickly gets you going and up to the 32kph maximum speed. The Eclipse rides smoothly, but keep in mind that this e-fatbike is over 60lbs and less nimble. With the motor engaged the Eclipse is a breeze to ride, but without the motor it’s a much tougher go — just ensure that your battery is charged adequately for each journey.
The speed levels are controlled by “plus” and “minus” buttons on the side of the computer which are handy. As they’re flush to each other it may take a bit of getting used to, especially while wearing gloves.
The throttle is also an effective way to get around on the Eclipse if you need a breather or a burst of speed.
Overall, the ride felt comfortably supported by the padded Velo saddle, adjustable high-riser handlebars, and gelpadded handlebar grips.
The fat tires also absorbed any roughness of the road, making this e-fatbike easy to handle.
The best part is that all of these features, including support, come at an affordable price, making the Quest Eclipse e-fatbike a strong contender for those looking for a reliable commuter or a ride to hit the road and enjoy the wind in your hair.
The Quest Eclipse is available at Costco and the SRP is $1,499. For more information, please visit www.ridequest.ca/ eclipse
Speed is controlled by “plus” and “minus” buttons on the side of the computer.
Large capacity rearmounted rack.
The rear light illuminates when braking.
BY MICHAEL LAROCHELLE
Tern’s Orox S12
e-Cargo Bike Outperforms and is Ready for Any Adventure
Tern’s new Orox adventure e-cargo bike is a robust extension of the company’s DNA that offers highquality e-cargo bikes and folding bikes designed for urban commuting and transportation.
The marketing slogan for the Orox is “Go Anywhere, Go Anytime, Bring Anything” — and it certainly looked ready to deliver on that promise when we picked it up at Scooteretti in the heart of Ottawa’s ByWard Market district.
The Orox comes in the S12 model (reviewed) and its flagship, the R14 model, both beefylooking e-cargo bikes. Available in medium and large frame sizes, it accommodates riders from 5’1” to 6’5” in height.
Scooteretti did a great job setting up the Satin Pine–coloured Orox S12 e-cargo bike and walking me through the features, as well as providing a Tern Captain’s Chair Gen 2, with a Sidekick handle and a Tern Cargo Hold 52 waterproof pannier.
I couldn’t wait to review it.
Tern’s new award-winning Orox is impressive and built for adventures on two wheels.
longer than a regular mountain bike. We were able to fit it onto a Thule T2 Pro hitch rear rack, and with some extra straps I was on my way.
The Orox is equipped with a powerful Bosch Performance Line CX drive system, offering 85Nm of torque that’s supported by a 725Wh battery with a range of up to 146km. A second battery can be attached to double the max range to a massive 292km. The battery does not quick-charge, so you can expect a full charge from empty to take 6+ hours.
A splash- and dust-proof Kiox 300 colour display provides info such as speed, distance, etc. There is an LED remote for intuitive control of the four assist modes including Eco, Tour, eMTB and Turbo.
The Kiox also manages the Ignis Hi/Lo Beam headlight with a maximum of 700 lumens. The light is controlled via headlight buttons integrated into the Magura MT5 brake levers.
This ride is impressive looking, but keep in mind that it’s a big bike at approximately 80lbs (36kg), and a good 12” or so
Using the app allows you to electronically lock and unlock the bike (it even makes a fancy beep), change the character of each of the four assist modes, and even change the wheel circumference.
Bosch Performance Line CX drive system with 85Nm of torque.
Bubble tea break… clearly I was on the hook for more school runs with the Orox
It’s worth mentioning that the entire Bosch e-bike system — including the battery, charger, drive unit, and display is tested and certified to UL 2849, the most extensive and rigorous safety standard to date for e-bike electrical systems.
The Bosch drive system is paired with Shimano’s Deore XT derailleur and 12-speed 10-51t cassette and 32t front chainring.
The Orox rolls on 27.5” x 4” Schwalbe Johnny Watts tires which are versatile, all-terrain tires designed for a mix of urban and offroad use. They performed excellently and were up to the challenge regardless of conditions. The tires are wrapped with full fenders, front and back, and a beefy mudflap up front ensures the rider stays as dry and clean as possible.
I was curious to see how the brakes performed, considering the weight and size of the Orox. I was pleasantly surprised by the Magura MT5, 4-piston hydraulic disc with 203mm rotors. They modulated to precision, and I felt confident stopping whether riding solo or with a passenger/cargo in the back.
The Tern Orox lives up to its slogan and then some…
every type of riding, and you won’t really feel how big it is.
One issue I did run into occasionally resulted from the Orox’s longer wheelbase, as the kickstand sits a bit low and may hit when cresting medium to big rocks and bumps.
For most of the riding I used the Tour and eMTB assist levels, and selected Turbo for longer, steeper hills
The Kiox also displays a dynamic range estimate for each assist level which calibrates itself over time depending on the rider’s fitness and strength, which I found to be very useful on longer rides.
Though I never managed a 100km adventure, my daughter and I enjoyed a fabulous 60km excursion when we returned the bike to Scooteretti. The journey took just over two hours and the battery still had 20% of power to spare.
The Bosch Performance Line
CX Mid-Drive motor is one of the smoothest and most natural motors I have reviewed to date, and the system can be paired with Bosch’s mobile Flow app where additional features and controls are available.
My first ride was the next day taking my 9-year-old daughter to school. She loved the ride, and her friends were very intrigued by the Orox. This bike gets a lot of attention.
At the end of the day, I picked her up and we decided to take the long way home, a 15-kilometre loop with a stop for a treat at the local bubble tea shop. The stock Atlas Kickstand XL Cargo is great for keeping the bike upright with lots of cargo and/or a kid drinking her bubble tea in the captain’s chair. Extensions to the kickstand legs are available for more stability. Clearly, I was on the hook for more school runs with the Orox.
Over the next few weeks, I did several different rides from light offroad trails to some of my favourite gravel rides. The Tern Orox is a very capable e-cargo bike for just about
The Orox comes with a multitude of 4mm hex bolts on the frame and fork to secure every imaginable accessory, and the list of offerings is also extensive.
This e-cargo bike with its huge carrying capacity of 462 lbs (210kg) on pavement and 397lbs (180kg) off-road offers a multitude of opportunities for both personal and commercial use.
It’s no surprise that the Tern Orox won Eurobike 2024 Gold in the E-bikes category. The hefty price tag and sheer size and weight mean that it’s not for everyone, but if adventure on two wheels is on your bucket list, this e-cargo bike lives up to its slogan and then some.
The SRP is $9,650, and for more information please visit www.ternbicycles.com.
Controls at the ready…
BY CÉDRIC CHAPERON
Carqon Cruise
Premium eCargo Bike Delivers Reliable Competition for the Family Car
Launched in 2020, the Carqon Classic turned heads with its premium look and robust protective front box including a door.
Winning multiple international design awards, the company unveiled its stylish and fully packed Cruise model in 2021 for families on the go.
We were excited to test the Cruise via Carqon’s Canadian distributor, Allo Velo Inc., with shops in Montréal and Vancouver.
All Carqon models are equipped with a Bosch Performance CX Gen 4 Cargo line motor featuring 85Nm of torque, ensuring you’re ready to smoothly arrive at your destination even when fully loaded.
Room for two children and space for school or shopping bags.
The Bosch 500W PowerPack (or 400Wh) offers a range of 50 to 70km, and with the dual battery option you can double your mileage capacity to a range of 120 to 140 kilometres. This makes for an appealing and long-lasting competitor for your car in the driveway.
Kids love cargo bikes… the Carqon Cruise is ready to give your car, or second vehicle, a run for its money.
The Enviolo N380 Stepless Gear Hub, which is directly linked to the silent, low-maintenance Gates Carbon Belt drive, delivers smooth shifting. The Cruise also offers a more economical option and more direct control with Shimano’s Deore XT 10-speed derailleur and a stainless steel KMC chain.
The Cruise’s front box features impressive loading capacity to easily transport two children, including space for school or shopping bags. A cleverly installed step allows easy mounting, and children can be comfortably seated and safely harnessed thanks to two three-point seat belts.
The box is made of Expanded Polypropylene (EPP), ensuring a light and comfortable interior, while the outer shell is finished with Dibond, a composite that protects against possible impacts. A high collar and safety rail add additional protection.
An optional rear luggage rack can be installed if more cargo space is needed, as well as an adapter to install a
The stylish and fully packed Carqon Cruise model for families on the go
Bosch’s Performance CX Gen 4 Cargo line motor features 85Nm of torque.
Maxi-Cosi baby carrier. A protective weather tent is also available. The space is well designed, and items can be installed and removed very easily. The maximum weight capacity including driver and load is 225kg.
The geometry of the bike offers an immediate comfortable feel and positioning. In the rear is a 27.5’’ wheel, while the cargo box rests on a sturdy 20’’ wheel, both fitted with Schwalbe Super Moto-X tires.
Another nice touch was the Suntour SF20-MOBIE front suspension fork, which smoothed out any rougher terrain for a more comfortable ride.
Tektro Dorato 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes deliver ample stopping power, while integrated front/rear lights, a frame lock for quick stops, and a double kickstand complete the package. A nice added feature is that the rear wheel lock and the battery lock share the same key.
The Carqon Cruise handled itself well in all conditions to deliver a pleasant, stable and comfortable ride. The only upgrade we’d consider is a more robust front light.
Like most e-cargo bikes, the size and weight are factors to consider, especially in tighter spaces and for smaller riders. Parking is also less of an issue than with a car or van while running errands, but keep in mind the need for ample space for storage.
The Carqon Cruise is a sturdy and spacious high-end e-cargo bike that is well thought out and equipped with premium features, making it a great option for families. A host of accessories are also available to allow the Cruise to sail to its full potential.
This e-cargo bike is ready to give your car, or second vehicle, a run for its money. The SRP is $9,999, and for more information please visit www.velolifestyle.com.
The
BY CÉDRIC CHAPERON
Cargone Solution Dual Longtail
Based in Laval, just a few kilometres from the island of Montréal, is the newly founded Canadian e-cargo bike manufacturer Cargone.
The company is the brainchild of Sébastien Jutras, an engineer by trade and a father of four. After testing several e-cargo bike models, he decided to throw his hat in the ring and design his own version of the “best e-cargo bike” to replace the family car, or second vehicle.
After several years of research and iterations, the Cargone Solution Dual Longtail was born. Unique in many ways, we were excited to have the opportunity to test this e-cargo bike earlier this fall.
It’s not only designed here, but it’s also constructed, welded, painted and assembled right in Laval, using Quebec aluminum tubing. In fact, particular care is taken to offer a product that is manufactured as local as possible.
The Canadian-made Cargone Solution Dual Longtail is ready for the challenges of everyday mobility.
of any bird. The innovative Albatros folds and unfolds easily via quick-release to 80cm (32”) wide, and it includes a rear opening for easy access for kids.
The Albatros system can safely carry multiple configurations such as two kids or one adult passenger, including the family dog — up to 200kg total, with an overall total weight limit of 440lbs, including the driver.
The Albatros systemcan safely carry multiple configurations.
Protective pads protect your bike’s finish at every potential friction point, and the Albatros provides handholds on each side for passengers. Fasteners even allow you to attach other items, such as a children’s bike.
The Cargone Solution Dual Longtail also features built-in footrests on both sides. All seats (Polisport Guppy and Bubbly Maxi) and pads, including a front rack are optional accessories.
You’ll immediately notice Cargone’s patent-pending retractable rear box “tail” dubbed Albatros by the company, after the renowned albatross that has the longest wingspan
The Albatros rear box is also optional and fits over the Cargone rigid ABS protection skirt, ensuring that the rear wheel well is completely isolated from passengers. The protection skirt must not be removed to ensure that passenger’s legs and feet cannot touch the wheel, spokes or any debris coming from the rear wheel.
Easy to handle thanks to 20-inch wheels which make for a low centre of gravity.
Powering the Cargone Solution Dual Longtail is a Bosch Cargo Line Gen 4 motor with a class-leading 85Nm of torque and 400% of pedalling support. This pairs with a 625Wh Bosch Powertube battery with the option of a 500Wh dual battery. Both batteries are fully concealed and are lockable with the newest Abus XPlus cylinders.
A Bosch Kiox display unit delivers all relevant data, and for a one-time activation fee, you can access a motor lock that makes your e-bike virtually useless to thieves.
The Cargone comes equipped with a Microshift Advent 9-Speed transmission that sports a single chainring to keep you rolling smoothly on Schwalbe 20” tires with their Pick-up model in the front and a Moto-Xs tire in the rear.
The Cargo Line motor quickly and smoothly propels you up to 32kph, and the Suntour Mobie A32-Cargo front suspension fork with lock-out, made especially for cargo bikes, helps keep things smooth. The Magura MT5 4-piston brakes deliver reliable stopping power as well.
Seating options as well
Another great feature is that this e-cargo bike offers one-size-fits-all compatibility for riders from 147cm to 196cm. The unique stem design works in reverse to other adjustable stems and enables you to set a proper lower/shorter or higher/longer fit.
Cargone’s patent-pending pre-set seat system, combined with the 200mm dropper post with four pre-sets and theft protection, lets you adjust the seat height for all family members — all without tools.
On the road, this e-cargo bike is very easy to handle thanks to the 20-inch wheels which makes for a low centre of gravity.
Additional standard equipment includes the powerful Roxim lighting that’s always on with a 13-watt light-up front offering hi/ low beams, along with rear lighting that shines even brighter when you touch the brakes. Reflective accents add 360° visibility.
A wide and robust steel kickstand delivers extra stability, and an Abus Café front wheel lock offers a quick solution to secure your e-cargo bike for short stops. Cargone also offers optional theftproof fasteners for all components exposed to theft.
Following our test period, it was hard to return the Cargone. My 5-year-old daughter and I truly enjoyed riding it around Montréal.
The Canadian-made Cargone Solution Dual Longtail is an e-cargo bike model that’s well-adapted to the mobility challenges of everyday life in the city. It seems that the company’s mission, to replace family vehicles, has been accomplished.
The SRP is $8,300 (as tested), and for more information please visit www.cargone.ca.
My 5-year-old daughter and I enjoyed riding the Cargone Solution Dual Longtail around Montréal.
CÉDRIC CHAPERON
A Bosch Cargo Line Gen 4 motor with 85Nm of torque and 400% of pedalling support.
with the rigid ABS protection skirt.
BY ROBIN RICHARDSON
MOS Uplift Roof Rack
The innovative MOS Uplift makes loading and unloading bikes, e-bikes and gear a breeze.
If you’ve ever hoisted a bike onto a rack on the roof of a car, you will immediately understand the inspiration behind the development of the Uplift rack by Quebec-based MOS.
As cars get bigger and bikes get heavier with the popularity of e-bikes, the option to carry your equipment on the roof can become more challenging. But what if your roof rack could lend a hand?
The MOS Uplift story began in 2015 in Quebec City at an event called Start-Up Weekend. The challenge for the assembled would-be entrepreneurs: create a working model of an innovative product and draft a business plan. The concept of a roof rack that could be lowered over the side of the vehicle to facilitate loading gear was a popular one, and a team formed from these humble beginnings.
Refining the idea over the next few years, the company sold the first 60 MOS Racks in 2019. Based on feedback from initial customers, the designers refined the manufacturing process to make it more practical and sustainable.
Renamed the MOS Uplift, the revamped design is stronger, elegant, and easy to use. The hydraulic mechanism allows your bike or other gear to be supported and lowered 24in/61cm over the side of the car while keeping it safely away from the vehicle, thereby making it easier to load and unload your gear.
The MOS Uplift is rated up to 85lbs/38kg.
Following the arrival of our test unit, it was assembled and installed in well under an hour. Note that installation requires that your vehicle is equipped with rooftop crossbars, and it’s recommended to have a second person’s help lifting the rack onto the car.
The instructions are clear and easy to follow, and there are videos available on the company’s website and on YouTube. Alternatively, the rack can be installed at a retailer.
The Uplift can be used on its own or with cradles for kayaks and canoes, or with the addition of bike racks or a cargo box. It took us moments to install a Thule ProRide single bike rail, and the Uplift is wide enough to fit a double rail or two slim single rails.
The hydraulic mechanism allows your bike to be supported and lowered.
When lowering the empty rack you’ll notice some resistance.
Works with kayaks, canoes, skis and cargo boxes.
To bring the rack down to chest height for loading, simply rotate the latches 90 degrees counter-clockwise, then pull the rack away from the car and down to the level of the door handles. We noticed significant resistance to the downward motion when the rack is empty, but when a bike or other cargo is loaded, the extra weight allows the rack to be lowered much more easily.
A standard bicycle is simple to lift onto the rack, but for heavier bikes, such as e-bikes, two people can easily manage. Once the bike is fastened, the hydraulic lift arms make easy work of raising the rack and bike up and into place on top of the car. The latches snap closed automatically to ensure that the bike is held securely.
A driving test confirmed that the rack holds tightly, with no rattle or sway. Upon arrival at the start of the ride, it’s easy to lower the rack, remove the bike, and begin your excursion.
eGEAR TEST
Most vehicles can accommodate two Uplift units.
Most vehicles can accommodate two Uplift units, one on each side. The rack is compatible with a wide range of bike rails, watercraft cradles and roof boxes, which need to be purchased separately.
The Uplift is rated for a load of 85lbs/38kg, including the attachments and sports gear.
Compatible with a wide range of bike rails.
Be aware that the MOS Uplift adds approximately 24 in/61cm of height above the roof bars, and it requires a clearance of 6in/10cm from the car when lowered. The new design facilitates quick removal of the rack for low-height garages; the nuts can be loosened without tools, and the assembled rack can be easily lifted off the roof for storage — a second person’s assistance is helpful.
The MOS Uplift is intuitive to use and makes it easier to explore new terrain, either solo or with friends.
The Uplift retails for $1,099.95 in Canada. To find retailers, check compatibility and learn more, visit www.MOSracks.com.
